🇺🇸Flags of Freedom, Marengo Sectionals, and Sleeping In

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Happy Saturday morning, Princeton. March 1st is a cool day in history, as Ohio officially became a state in 1803, expanding the growing United States. On this day in 1936, the construction of the Hoover Dam was completed, revolutionizing water management and energy production in the American West. Its also the day in 1873 when E. Remington and Sons began producing the first practical typewriter, transforming the way people communicate.

Let’s get it to it.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🇺🇸Celebrate Flags of Freedom
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆Princeton People of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
📍Outside City Limits
👷Princeton Job Openings
💭Remember When…
📍Outside City Limits
💤Letter from Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Andrea Denner, Karen Hildebrand, and Zach Bird🥳!

• Tigers Basketball secured a 59-53 victory, punching their ticket to the Marengo sectional.

• The Bureau County Historical Society is unveiling a new portraits exhibit today. The collection features long-unseen or never-before-displayed portraits from across the county.

• The Bureau County Fair is hosting a pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, from 8 AM to noon. Tickets are $10 per person, with proceeds supporting the fair.

• A baked potato fundraiser will take place at the Bureau County Senior Center on March 21 from 11 AM to 1 PM. Dine-in, carryout, and drive-up options are available, with toppings like cheese, chili, bacon, and more.

• A community event, March 4 Democracy, is set for Tuesday, March 4, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Rotary Park in Princeton. Organized by concerned citizens of Bureau County, the event invites participants to bring signs highlighting local, state, and national issues.

• The Princeton High School Academic and Career Hall of Fame selection committee is looking for nominations of deserving PHS alumni. Nominations need to be submitted here by June 1. 

• SRM: “Sixty-year-old William Naffziger of Princeton was jailed Wednesday on a warrant after missing a recent court date. He's charged with six felony counts of theft.”

• If you've received a text from an unusual phone number or email address saying you have an outstanding balance on your Illinois tollway account, it's most likely a scam.

• The Covered Bridge Quilters Guild meets Thursday, March 6, at 6:30 PM at New Hope Church of the Nazarene in Princeton, featuring Beth Rosenes presentation on her Fiber Tour in Bali. Guests are welcome with a $5 fee, which can be applied to the $24 annual membership. An open sew day starts at 10:00 AM the same day. For details, contact Cindy Smith at 573-603-4234 or Terry Johnson at 815-872-0534.

• Princeton Tourism is hosting a four-day Restaurant Weekend from March 6 to March 9, highlighting the local culinary scene with creative specials and hometown hospitality. Participants can enjoy diverse menus, support local businesses, and look forward to exclusive deals and features at various dining establishments.

• Gateway Services announces the seventh annual Egg My Yard fundraiser, where candy-filled eggs will be scattered in your yard for Easter morning fun. Prices start at 20 dollars for 25 eggs, with options to add a treat bag or sign with a childs name. Orders can be placed at https://forms.gle/Y3pgeVEXUCSJfLaBA before April 14 at 4 PM.

• Bureau County is holding an electronics recycling event on April 26 from 9 AM to noon at the Highway Department. Residents can drop off accepted items for free, but space is limited.

• Early voting has begun in Bureau County for the April 1, consolidated election. Voters can cast their ballots Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM at the Bureau County Courthouse. Positions on the ballot include mayor, board members, township officials, and school board members.

• Bureau County Sheriff Report 2/28/2025

🇺🇸CELEBRATE 20 YEARS OF FLAGS OF FREEDOM

The Flags of Freedom is celebrating their 20^th  year of the flags flying at Exit 56 on Interstate 80 as the front door to Princeton and Bureau County.

On September 10, 2005, the flags were raised with great fanfair and enthusiasm enjoyed by over 2500 people, including many local and state dignitaries along with a number of current and past members of the U.S. Armed Forces.  The City of Princeton requested help in July 2016 to help with fundraising for the cost of the flags and the infrastructure, as no tax money is used to support this display.  At that point the Flags of Freedom Committee was formed to support the associated costs of maintaining the Flags of Freedom.

The 20^th  Anniversary Star Spangled Event will be held at the Cider Mill Event Center in Princeton.  Doors open at 5pm, program and auctions will beginning at 5:30 pm sharp.  The food will be heavy  hors d'oeuvres provided by local restaurants.  Las Vegas style fun will follow the program with something for everyone.  New to our event are more trips than ever before.  You can visit our website to view information about the trips and purchase them before the auction.  Purchase a trip before March 1st, and receive a $100 gift card as a bonus.  Tickets for the event and vacations can be purchased under the Donate button on our website www.flagsoffreedomi80.org.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Today: Partly cloudy skies throughout the day with a high of 35°F. Winds from the northwest at 10 to 20 mph. The evening remains mostly clear, with temperatures dropping to 18°F and winds becoming light and variable.

☀️Sunday: A mostly sunny day with a few passing clouds and a high of 43°F. Winds from the southeast at 5 to 10 mph. At night, clouds increase with periods of rain expected after midnight. Low near 32°F, with winds from the south-southeast at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain is 40%.

🌤️Monday: Partly to mostly cloudy skies with a slight chance of rain in the morning. High of 51°F, with south-southeast winds at 10 to 20 mph. Nighttime brings partly cloudy conditions early, followed by showers after midnight. Low around 40°F, with winds from the south at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain is 40%.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.29
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.34
Casey’s West/North: $3.37
Beck’s West/North: $3.37
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.39
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.39

Peru Gas 👀

Sapp Bros.: $2.82

🏆PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

Did someone go the extra mile? Did a Princeton Person bless you or someone else you know? Nominate them, give me the details, and they may be chosen as the Princeton NOW Person of the Week. Nominate your Princeton Person of the Week by emailing your nomination to [email protected].

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💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Apollo Theater is hosting a sensory-friendly showing of The Unbreakable Boy on Sunday, March 9, at 1:15 PM. This special screening will have reduced volume, house lights on, and allow for movement.

• Skoonerz Grill and Bar will serve its final customers on today, March 1. The owners are thankful for the memories and support from both patrons and staff over the years.

• The Banjo Buddies Dixieland Band is set to take the stage at the Grace Theater on Saturday, March 8, at 7 PM. Audiences can expect an upbeat mix of brass, rhythm, and classic Dixieland energy.

• Cafe Grace invites guests to enjoy fresh, flavorful dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Located at 1009 N Main St, the restaurant accepts reservations and walk-ins, with hours Tuesday through Sunday.

• Mavolans is offering a weekend sale rack with deals from $5 to $20. All sales are final, so stop by to grab a bargain.

• True Leaves Bookshop encourages shopping local and offers extra stamps on Book It to Local Business cards. Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce gift cards are also accepted for purchases.

• Skoonerz Grill and Bar will close on Saturday, March 1, 2025, after 20 years in business. The owners thank their customers and staff for the memories and support.

• Sislers Ice Cream is introducing two new flavors on March 1, Lucky Charms and Pot of Gold. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 8 PM.

• Master Electrician is now serving the Princeton community. Contact 815-200-4816 or visit m-electrician.com for services.

• Corner Chair Market just received beautiful fragrance diffusers in three scents. Each comes with a stylish vessel and reed flowers to enhance your space.

• Little Blue Dress in Princeton has restocked their best-selling lightweight hooded denim jacket in sizes Small through 3X. This must-have spring staple pairs perfectly with leggings, joggers, or a graphic tee.

• Once Upon A Craft is hosting a fun and relaxing paint party fundraiser this Saturday. No artistic skills are needed, and everyone will leave with a beautiful project and lasting memories.

• The Logan Junior High 8th Grade Dance Committee is raising funds until March 20 to provide a special night with dinner, dancing, and fun. Donations can be made via check, Venmo, or PayPal to help cover food, decorations, and a photo booth.

• Simply Nutrition is offering a special before-school deal on Tuesday, March 4, from 6:30 to 8 AM. Buy two kids teas and get one free, or buy one adult and one kids drink to receive free protein balls or doughnuts.

• Magi Baby Chest at St Louis Parish in Princeton is open Saturday, March 1, from 9 AM to noon. A $5 donation at the door grants access to a selection of brand-new baby items, plus gently used treasures in the hallway.

• Bureau County Metro Center is organizing a volleyball skills clinic for grades K through 5 on April 5. Participants will learn fundamentals from experienced players. Contact the BCMC for more information.

• Friends of Strays is hosting an adoption day today from 9 AM to 1 PM, where visitors can meet animals looking for a home. Stop by to spend time with the cats and dogs available for adoption. They will be waiting to meet their future families.

• Artisan Market at Hornbaker Gardens is looking for artists to join its outdoor market on September 20, 2025. The deadline for submissions is Monday, March 3 at 9 AM. Get full details and apply at https://www.hornbakergardens.com/artisan-market/.

• Rediger Auction Service is holding its next machinery consignment on March 29. They are now accepting consignments for this live and online event.

This Weekend:

🐐Boek-el-Zoo is featuring baby goats at Coneflower Farm on Saturday from 12 PM to 3 PM. Visitors can see the new arrivals, enjoy trading cards, and kids under 10 get a free scoop coupon.

🎸Industrial Wood is performing at the Hawg House Saloon on Saturday from 3 PM to 7 PM. Guests can enjoy live music in a lively atmosphere.

🎤The Wise Guys will be playing at Hollywood & Vine on Saturday at 6:30 PM. Stop by for live music, drinks, and a fun evening.

🎼Downtown Pub is hosting open mic and karaoke every Saturday through May. Whether you are a seasoned performer or just want to have fun, the event starts at 9 PM.

🥞The Bureau County Fair is hosting a pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, March 2, from 8 AM to noon. Tickets are $10 per person, and questions can be directed to 815-303-2905.

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📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• World’s oldest brewery is coming to Central Illinois

• Tickets available for ‘Hello Dolly!’ at IVCC

• Meet 10-Year-Old Anderson Taylor, the Young Paleontologist Transforming Fossil Education

• If you have a student who attends high schools like L-P, Hall, Mendota, Princeton or Putnam County, you should ask them is “who is Casimir Pulaski?” The Polish war hero’s exploits earned them a day off.

• Man Accused In Ottawa Murder Case Hoping To Have Confession Suppressed

• Watch: Miraculous steal and buzzer-beating heave ends Illinois high school playoff game

• The Illinois Road Scholars and Walnut Public Library are hosting an event with Catherine Lambrecht on the "History of American Pies...and Illinois Well Represented!" on Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM at the Walnut Public Library. This interactive workshop includes a pie crust demonstration by Catherine, sampling of attendees' pies, recipe sharing, and a discussion session. Registration is required; you can call the library at 815-379-2159.. For more information, please contact the Walnut Public Library District.

• A new Dementia Caregiver Support Group will begin meeting in Walnut Illinois on the first Tuesday of each month starting March 4 from 1 to 2 PM at the Walnut Public Library located at 101 Heaton Street Walnut Illinois 61376. This group is presented by the Alzheimers Association Illinois Chapter in partnership with CGH. To sign up contact Beth Dementia Navigator at 815 625 4790 extension 3977.

• Maizey Sterling is offering babysitting services and has extensive experience working with children of all ages. Currently pursuing a degree in early childhood education, she works in a 5th-grade classroom twice a week and previously assisted in a kindergarten class. 

👷PRINCETON JOB OPENING

• St. Matthews Lutheran Church in Princeton is hiring for three part-time positions: Director of Music Ministry (15-17 hrs/week), Director of Youth & Family Ministry (9-10 hrs/week), and Media Outreach Technician (6-8 hrs/week). A qualified candidate may fill all three roles for a total of 30-35 hours per week with insurance benefits. Job descriptions are available at www.StMatthewsPrinceton.org, and resumes can be sent to [email protected] or mailed to 416 E Dover Rd, Princeton, IL 61356-9551.

• The Princeton Closet is hiring a part-time operations employee to help with donations, cashier duties, and customer assistance. This role also includes organizing spaces and merchandising the sales floor. Those interested can email Amy at [email protected].

• Princeton Fire Department is accepting applications for part-time firefighter and EMT positions. Pay ranges from sixteen to nineteen dollars per hour.

• Hornbaker Gardens in Princeton is hiring Garden Center Retail Staff for $15 to $20 per hour, based on experience. Positions are seasonal, running mid-March through October, with full-time and part-time options available. Responsibilities include watering, pricing, arranging, and maintaining plants, as well as customer service and product assistance. Candidates must have a strong work ethic and be available for weekend shifts. Additional benefits include weekly direct deposit and PTO accrual.

• Dairy Queen is hiring for seasonal positions from March to October. They are looking for candidates with upbeat and bubbly personalities.

• Greenfield Retirement Home is hiring a housekeeper for $15 per hour with full-time morning shifts. Responsibilities include daily and deep cleaning, maintaining hygiene standards, and adhering to infection control policies. Candidates must ensure safe use of cleaning equipment and respect residents privacy and needs. Greenfield Retirement Home has served older adults since 1911 and values dedicated employees. Benefits include a 401k and food provided.

💭REMEMBER WHEN…

🥰LETTER FROM LORI

I just spent the most glorious few days with the Nerds (my affectionate nickname for my grandkids). They got to spend a little extra time with me because Mommy (my eldest spawn) was offered some overtime she couldn't pass up, so we were all blessed. I usually don't have them on a Saturday at the store because it's my busiest day, and they are only 2 and 3 years old. They are used to going in with me on days I am closed to help feed and water, so they are familiar with the animals.

If you stopped by on Saturday, you may have been fortunate enough to get a guided tour by my version of Robert Irwin. I saw him leading a group, explaining in 3-year-old language about Tilly the African gray and how she gives kisses. He demonstrated for a fearful 2-year-old so she could see for herself that Tilly posed no threat to her lips. He had to get on a stool to show them Guillermo, the new iguana. My heart was doing a happy dance to see that he is passionate about his critters like I am.

As a Crammy who took the driver's seat on the struggle bus many years ago, I haven't had the financial resources to spoil my grandchildren like other grandparents who have 401(k)s and a retirement plan. I don't buy them fancy toys unless I find them on sale at a secondhand store. The focus at my house when they visit isn't on things; it's on experiences and interaction. We put the tablet in the backpack, and we do. We cook. We paint. We build. We sing. We laugh. We snuggle.

I have to admit, I tried very hard to be this kind of mom, but stupid life got in the way. I tried to prioritize correctly and put my children first...mostly...until the laundry needed to be done, and I didn't have the time or patience to watch them fold things incorrectly because then I would have to refold them, and that would take up precious time I didn't have. Dishes? Oh, the potential for a water disaster was just too great to consider! Then there would be mopping and yelling about not tracking on the wet floor or mopping the whole floor because I couldn't just have that one clean spot. Let them help cook? What a mess that might be, and there was a danger of getting burned on a hot pan or boiling water, and I wouldn't want them to stand on a chair. They could fall.

But you know what? This Crammy (short for Crazy Grammy) gig is awesome. In my old(er) age, I've slowed down a little and really don't care much if my dishrags are folded into a perfect square. Fifty-seven years have taught me that triangular, misshapen rags wash just the same. Dishes can be fun if you fling a little soap and squirt a little water. Clothes and hair dry, and the floors need to be mopped anyway. Maybe your happy feet can teach them a few Fred Astaire moves while you scrub the paw prints off the linoleum. As for cooking, vigilance and hot pads can protect from the dangers, and self-made food is almost always a hit with even the fussiest of eaters. Now Crammy might cringe a little when her cupcake gets sneezed on or her icing gets licked when she isn't looking, but that's one of the sacrifices we make for the reward of seeing a huge smile and hearing "I DID IT MYSELF!!" as you try to gleefully take a bite while navigating around the visible booger in the icing. Nothing makes it all worthwhile like the sense of independence and accomplishment you've helped instill in their little character.

Time, age, maturity, and awareness have afforded me the luxury to do it better now. Notice I didn't include wisdom in that list because if you saw the videos of Nerd 1 with the kazoo I bought him, you'd see that I didn't conquer "wise choices" when I graduated to Crammy. Let's just say it's part of the learning curve, and it went home in the backpack with the tablet. 🤫🤫🤫

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

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