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Good Saturday morning, Princeton friends. Fresh flavors, winter deals, and creative events will help you start 2026 strong. From Paisano’s Chili Pizza to Apollo POP’s popcorn tin refills and Miss Betsy’s new Oreo Cheesecake donut, there’s something for every taste. Wild Honey and Little Blue Dress have updated their hours and inventory, while Myrtle’s Pies and Optimal Health are offering sweet and savory savings. Whether you’re shopping, sipping, or savoring, there’s no better time to support your hometown favorites—let’s go, Princeton.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes For Sale
🛍️Buddy Bags
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
🗃️Business Development
📝Letter From Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• The Princeton girls basketball team capped off a strong tournament run with a decisive 57–44 victory over Metamora to claim the Ottawa Holiday Tournament title on December 23, 2025.

• The Fire Department set a record high in calls responded to. They had almost a 9% increase from last year. 2024 -2250 runs 2025-2451 runs. Congratulations to these four team Princeton Fire Department members celebrating service milestones — we are truly grateful for your dedication and impact. Matt Boughton (20 years), Brian Carrington (15 years), and Eli VanAutreve and Nick Dykstra (10 years each) — thank you for your service to our community.

• The Princeton Youth Soccer League has announced key dates for the Spring 2026 season, with registration running January 1–February 15 and the season scheduled for April 13–May 23. The later start avoids Spring Break but may create some scheduling adjustments.

• OSF Saint Clare Medical Center in Princeton has alerted patients that some of their personal and medical information may have been exposed in a recent data breach. The incident is tied to Cerner, the former electronic health-record vendor used across multiple OSF facilities.

• BCR: Step back in time at Knox Hotel near Princeton’s art district

📍Outside City Limits

• Authorities Investigating Attempted Armed Robbery at Amboy Shell Gas Station  

• The State of Illinois has been awarded close to a billion dollars over the next five years to expand healthcare access in rural areas.

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath single-family home at 319 N. Chestnut St. in Princeton is listed for $60,000 and offers 921 square feet of living space on a 5,227-square-foot lot. The home features a main-floor bedroom and laundry, a large yard, a carport, central air, gas heat, and a full basement. It is a HUD property sold as-is with no warranties from the seller, and buyers are responsible for verifying all information and complying with showing requirements. Built in 1881.

• This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home at 443 E. Peru St. in Princeton is listed for $275,000 and offers 2,248 square feet of living space on a 0.65-acre lot. Built in 1898, the home features high ceilings, multiple living areas, a bright kitchen with abundant counter space, and a large sunroom that opens to beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces. Additional highlights include a full basement, potential walk-up attic storage, an oversized 2-car garage with an attached shop, and a landscaped backyard oasis with deck and terrace areas designed for relaxation and entertaining.

• This 2-bedroom, 1-bath Cape Cod–style home at 525 E. Marion St. in Princeton is listed for $84,900 and offers 1,248 square feet of living space. Significant recent improvements include a new roof, windows, boiler and radiators, flooring updates, and electrical and plumbing upgrades, along with interior paint and decorating. The property, built in 1896, also features a detached 2-car garage and natural gas radiant heat.

🛍️BUDDY BAGS

This year’s Buddy bag program is in full swing with 142 children currently participating in our program.

As everyone is aware groceries are high and the need is great. We are reaching out to businesses, organizations and residents as we approach the holidays for any and all support/donations to the buddybag program.  Our new location is behind Johnson's Carpet in white bldg with our Buddy Bag sign at the door. We meet at 430 to set up and pack at 5 on Wednesday evening. Visitors and extra help always welcome.

Thank you!

Contacts

Mark Frank: 8158767295

Diane Heller: 8153262671

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Today: Morning clouds give way to some sun later. High near 29°F with a light NW 5–10 mph breeze. Night turns partly cloudy, then cloudier late, with a low around 16°F.

☁️Sunday: Clouds increase through the day. High around 34°F with a light SE ~10 mph wind. A slight chance of a light wintry mix arrives late, and the night dips to about 28°F.

☁️Monday: Mostly cloudy with a few sunny breaks. Milder, with a high near 46°F and a gentle SSW→WNW 5–10 mph breeze. Night is partly cloudy with a low near 34°F.

🌤️Tuesday: Mix of clouds and sunshine. Afternoon tops out near 49°F with a WSW 5–10 mph wind. Clouds thicken at night and the low falls to about 30°F.

🌤️Wednesday: Sunshine blends with some clouds. The high is near 51°F with a light WNW 5–10 mph breeze. Evening starts partly cloudy, then turns mostly cloudy overnight with a low around 35°F.

🌦️Thursday: Mostly cloudy skies. A few showers are possible while the high reaches about 52°F with a S ~10 mph wind. Night stays mostly cloudy and cool with a low near 39–40°F.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $2.94
Sullivan’s Foods: $2.94
Casey’s West/North: $2.96
Beck’s West/North: $2.96
Road Ranger, N Main St: $2.96
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $2.96

Peru Gas 👀

Caseys, Shooting Park Rd.: $2.55

🍽️LENNY AND JOON’S UPDATE

It’s wild to look back on this year and think about where we started and how much slow, steady growth has happened. Sometimes it feels like no progress is being made, but the little things really do stack up.

The floors were refinished in January and are so beautiful (shoutout to @mdhardwoodfloors ). One wall got a fresh coat of paint that perfectly matches the flower in the 1980s wallpaper. We added a second bathroom and made the original just a bit bigger—both “new” but still old, with details like transom windows, salvaged sinks, built-in shelving, and an exposed brick wall.

We bought old church pews from Galva and used the extra wood to build our Main Street window seating. Every piece of the counter is repurposed wood, and I can’t wait for the day people sit there with a cup of coffee watching downtown go by.

We finalized our logo (thanks @bfoehring ), picked colors, added signage, and are slowly buying things we need—coffee makers, ice machines, dishwashers, dishes, decor, and more.

Best of all, we got to fill this space with people and food: graduation parties, homecoming dinner, pop-ups, and early morning coffee with friends. Those moments reminded us why we’re doing this.

Timelines and goal dates have come and gone, and things are moving slower than we ever anticipated. But good things take time, and we’re choosing to trust that everything is unfolding exactly as it should. We know that whenever we open, it will be the right time it’s meant to be. There’s still more work to do, but little by little, day by day, we’re inching ever closer to opening our little breakfast and lunch spot and feeding our community. See you in 2026!

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Illinois Valley Animal Rescue is highlighting two adoptable dogs, Kenzie and Lobo, who are playful, bonded, and prefer each other’s company. They warm up after initial shyness and would do best in a quieter home environment where they can receive consistent attention.

• Rossy’s BBQ Joint has resumed normal weekend hours, serving Friday and Saturday from 11am–9pm and Sunday from 11am–8pm. Beginning next week, they are also adding Pasta Night on Wednesdays and Taco Night on Thursdays from 4–9pm.

• The Apollo Theater in Princeton has released its show schedule for January 2–8, 2026, featuring “Avatar: Fire & Ash” and “David.” Open-captioned Sunday evening shows and online ticketing remain available.

• Miss Betsy’s has introduced Oreo Cheesecake as the January flavor of the month, featuring Oreo buttercream filling, Oreo topping, and cheesecake bites. This flavor is a refreshed version of a previously popular Oreo donut offering.

• Optimal Health is offering 50% off all freezer items on January 2 and 3 only. Customers are encouraged to bring coolers and stock up during the limited-time promotion.

• Myrtle’s Pies has prepared extra cinnamon rolls for the weekend in multiple flavors including orange, caramel pecan, bourbon brown sugar, and cream cheese. These rolls are also suitable for freezing to enjoy over the next several months.

• Apollo POP is inviting customers to bring back their Christmas popcorn tins for refills at a discounted price of $28 for 3 gallons. Guests may choose the same flavors or select something new during their refill visit.

• Coal Creek Brewing Company is hosting a Galentine’s Shop + Sip event on February 12 at 6pm. Guests can enjoy Valentine-inspired beverages while shopping from local vendors offering gifts, treats, and specialty items.

• Paisano’s Ristorante has introduced Chili Pizza as the January Pizza of the Month, topped with hearty chili, cheese, onions, and Fritos on their signature crust. The pizza is available for dine-in, carryout, and delivery throughout January.

• Rediger Auction Service is seeking consignments for its Machinery Consignment Auction scheduled for February 14–15, 2026, in Wyanet. Machinery will sell live and online on Saturday, with shop tools and small items selling online only on Sunday.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware has 27-gallon storage totes on sale for $8.99 now through January 31. This promotion offers an affordable option for storing and organizing holiday decorations and other household items.

• The Princeton Public Library is selling tickets for the Starved Rock Bald Eagle Trolley Tours taking place January 9 from 11:00 AM–2:30 PM, including lunch at the lodge. Tickets are $25 per person and may be reserved by calling or emailing the library.

• Wild Honey Boutique has announced new winter hours through March, remaining open Wednesday–Friday from 10:00–5:30 and Saturday from 10:00–5:00. The boutique looks forward to welcoming customers into the new year and is always available online.

• Little Blue Dress in Princeton is featuring a denim refresh with both barrel and straight-leg styles in dark wash options. Staff are available daily from 10:00–4:00 to help shoppers find the perfect fit.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is hiring a cashier with varied hours, including required Saturday availability. Applicants are asked to apply in person on January 6, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM, with a starting wage of $15 per hour.

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🗓️️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🎶 Friday, January 9, 2026: Nate Rector Live at Barrel Society – Local country artist Nate Rector performs live at 7:00 PM at Barrel Society.

🃏 Saturday, January 24, 2026: Euchre Tournament at Wyanet VFW Post 6634 – Registration begins at 12:00 PM with card play starting at 12:30 PM. $10 buy-in, food and bar available.

🎸 Saturday, January 31, 2026: Day Drinking at Hawg House Saloon with Kickapoo Junction – Live music and a lively afternoon atmosphere from 3:00–7:00 PM at Hawg House Saloon.

🏍 Sunday, February 8, 2026: Princeton Motorcycle Swap Meet – Held from 8:00 AM–2:00 PM with $10 admission and vendor spots available for $50 at 802 W Peru Street.

💘 Thursday, February 12, 2026: Galentine’s Party Shop + Sip at Coal Creek Brewing Company – Enjoy Valentine-themed drinks and shopping from local vendors starting at 6:00 PM.

🥁 Saturday, February 14, 2026: Wreckin’ Dixie Country Rockin’ at Hawg House Saloon – Wreckin’ Dixie performs live from 3:00–6:00 PM for an afternoon of country rock fun.

🗃️BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MEETING

The City of Princeton is inviting residents to a community meeting on January 27th, from 5 to 7 PM, at the Bureau County Metro Center’s Shoemake Hall. The session, organized in collaboration with Hometown Consulting, will focus on the Business Development District and its impact on the local economy. City officials plan to provide an overview of current projects, followed by a question-and-answer segment for public input. All community members and local business owners are encouraged to attend, as the outcomes of this district could influence future development plans throughout Princeton. Doors open ahead of the scheduled meeting for early arrivals and networking. Please RSVP to Michael Zearing at [email protected].

💭REMEMBERING PRINCETON

From Don Saletzki: “The 6th Street Still 1984, this newspaper photo has me thinking of a time 40 years ago with no internet, business owners relied heavily on newspapers. Many will remember the back page of the newspaper was your weekend guide for dining specials, what lounges and hotels had bands playing, what movies were playing for all of the Illinois valley. I remember the Holliday Inn had a lounge with bands, and some of the coolest looking pay phone booths could be found inside. Today all that is needed is a cell phone. As far as the photo the Still was a great family business run by the Talmon family, I do not remember when it closed.”

✉️IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT USPS POSTMARKS

A postmark is the date and location stamp applied to mail by the USPS when they officially accept it. Postmarks can be very important for tax filings, mail-in ballots, bills, and anything else with a firm deadline.

Important Postmark Deadlines

Because the USPS recommends mailing items at least one week before a deadline to ensure they are properly postmarked, here are a few important dates to keep in mind this year:

U.S. Tax Day — Deadline: April 15, 2026

To be safe, mail your tax documents no later than April 8, 2026 to ensure they are postmarked on or before April 15.

Midterm Elections — Deadline: November 4, 2026

Mail your ballot no later than October 28, 2026 to ensure a valid postmark on or before Election Day.

You can also request a manual local postmark by taking your mail directly to the post office and asking them to hand-stamp it. This service is free.

📝LETTER FROM LORI

I am a list writer and a note leaver. I come by it honestly. My mother could have funded the salaries of at least two full-time employees at the Post-It Note factory. I covered the budget in the break room! My memory is weak, so I need to write things down. I like to have notes on paper to go back to, review, and present as evidence should I need them. I grew up in a house where there were little yellow squares EVERYWHERE—telling us what to do, where people were, and reminding us of upcoming appointments. In ancient times, the squares only came in yellow. Now there are a plethora of colors, so I’m able to assign colors to appropriate things. My OCD brain loves it.

If you are a list writer like me, you are probably a goal-setter, too. I sometimes make a daily chore list and feel very accomplished and “adult-like” when I scratch things off it. If I complete a task that was NOT on the list, I might write it at the bottom just so I can scratch it off. It feels like a victory when everything has a red line through it at the end of the day. If I don’t finish the list, I freshen it up and write a new one for the next day.

I write chore lists, grocery lists, and lists of places I need to go for the day or the week. I write lists of long-term goals and short-term goals. So, one time when I was struggling hard with a relationship in my life, I had the brilliant idea to write a list of things I loved about that person so I could focus on the positive and maybe turn things around. I knew that at some point, I had liked the person and wanted to remind myself of WHY. I set the goal of writing 50 things. It seemed lofty, but surely, since I had committed my life to them, there must have been at LEAST 50, right??

I sat down—pen in hand, legal pad in front of me—and started to write. It was HARD. My mind was so full of all of his transgressions that I couldn’t seem to remember a single thing I liked about him. Then I thought of one. ONE. Okay, now onto TWO. Ummmm… I smelled smoke rolling out of my ears as my brain struggled to think. Two came slightly easier with less time involved. That opened the door to THREE. FOUR was right behind it. FIVE slid on in. I got to about 25, and it became more difficult again, but I didn’t give up. I put the list down for a while and went back to it after I had pondered it a bit more. I finally got all the way to FIFTY, and I was able to expand it a little more. I wrote down FIFTY-ONE, then FIFTY-TWO. I found that once I tapped into the positive, it became much easier.

I reviewed the list, and I remembered his smile. I remembered the dance in the kitchen after a particularly stressful day. I remembered him cleaning the house once when I hadn’t had time. I kept that list and went back to it often—whenever there was an altercation and I forgot all of his GOOD traits. When his birthday rolled around, I gave him a copy. (Of course, I kept the original for myself.) I couldn’t tell if he appreciated my effort or not. I don’t think he understood my motive behind it. The word “insightful” hadn’t made it to his list. He never let me know how it affected HIM, but I do know how it affected ME. That list got me through some tough times.

I’ve decided recently that I am going to start a new list. It will be a list of my blessings. So often I get bogged down in the negativity of life, and it is easy to lose sight of why I should be happy. Sometimes the “bad” seems to come at me like a tornado in a trailer park, flinging things around and causing chaos. I plan on reading this list in the morning to start my day so I can focus on the positive before the negative takes hold. I vow to add to the list as often as I can. I am interested to see how long it gets and reflect on the GOOD things in my life. I will share it with God and thank Him with a grateful heart. I’m not sure how it will affect Him (though I suspect He might smile about it), but I can pretty much guarantee that it will help me make my life and attitude better.

So, I challenge you all to do the same and see if 2026 might go a little better and a little smoother when we all have an Attitude of Gratitude.

I’d love to hear from you, so feel free to drop a brief message into my Messenger on my Facebook page if you feel led to do so.

The next time you sneeze and someone says, “Bless you,” you can respond, “God already has,” and you will have your list as proof!

Lori owns the Book-el-ZOO in Princeton. It’s not just a pet shop — it’s an experience!

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