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Happy Saturday morning, Princeton. This week’s issue is packed with everything from heartfelt tributes and local job openings to a meadow-inspired reflection on God’s love and a deep lineup of weekend business happenings. You’ll also find local events, fall sports sign-ups, sweet treats, job openings, and a salute to our deployed troops.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
📣From the EMA
🌠Thank You Cards
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆Princeton People of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
👷Princeton Job Openings
🏋️At the Met
📚At the Library
🦌Letter From Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Sunday, Eli VanAutreve🎈!

• Programming Note: I will be out of commission until Tuesday the 22nd. I’ll miss you, but I’ll be back. See you then!

• BCR: “Storms caused flooding, high winds, downed trees and damaged crops throughout Bureau County on Thursday. The Bureau County Courthouse had standing water in the basement on Friday, July 11, 2025 in Princeton. Princeton received over 4 inches of rain from the storm system.“

• The Bureau County Metro Center has opened registration for fall flag football for grades K–1, 2nd–3rd, and 4th–5th. Volunteer coaches are welcome, and sign-ups can be completed in person, by phone, or online.

• The Bureau County Historical Society is hosting a special presentation on Saturday, July 12 at 12 PM to celebrate 170 years of the Bureau County Fair. Held at the Prairie Arts Center, the event will feature Kathy Bauer from the Fair Board sharing the rich history of Illinois’ longest running fair, which began in 1855. Attendees will learn about the fair’s origins, Civil War interruption, and the many changes the fairgrounds have seen over the decades.

• Dive into Storytime Magic with The Little Mermaid at Princeton Library on July 14, 2025

📣BUREAU COUNTY EMA

We frequently receive questions as to why outdoor warning sirens were or were not activated in response to a particular storm. In Bureau County, the decision to activate outdoor warning sirens is the responsibility of each municipality (typically the local fire department).

Sirens may be activated for radar indicated or spotter confirmed tornadoes, winds in excess of 80 miles an hour, quarter size (or larger) hail, and other emergencies where mass notification of the public is deemed necessary. 

We would also like to remind you that the activation of outdoor warning sirens is intended to prompt individuals who are outside to go indoors and seek additional information via trusted sources (such as this page, your fire department’s Facebook page, or local tv/radio stations).

🌠JOIN THE “THANK YOU” CARD DRIVE

State Representative Travis Weaver’s office is organizing a “Thank You Card Drive” for deployed military personnel, running from June 10th to August 1st. Community members are invited to express their gratitude and support by submitting handwritten cards. Cards can be mailed or delivered directly to 337 Court Street in Pekin, Illinois 61554. Every card collected during this drive will be sent to soldiers currently deployed overseas. Representative Weaver’s initiative aims to boost morale and remind service members that their dedication is appreciated back home. Donations of cards are being accepted now through August 1, 2025.

From Regional Media News

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Today: Intervals of clouds and sunshine will dominate the day, with only a slight chance for a stray shower or thunderstorm. Highs will reach 84°F with winds from the WNW at 10 to 15 mph and humidity around 59%. The UV index is very high, so sun protection is advised. Saturday night will be partly cloudy, with a low of 65°F and light SW winds at 5 to 10 mph. Overnight humidity will rise to 76%.

☀️ Sunday: Expect mostly sunny skies throughout the day with only a 20% chance of showers. The high temperature will be around 85°F with SW winds at 5 to 10 mph and humidity at 66%. Sunday night will be mostly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms possible. The low will be near 66°F, with a 40% chance of rain and WSW winds at 5 to 10 mph.

🌦 Monday: Rain showers could arrive in the morning with scattered thunderstorms by afternoon. The high will hit 90°F with SSW winds at 5 to 10 mph and humidity near 60%. The chance of rain stands at 40%. Skies will become partly cloudy overnight with a low of 71°F, light variable winds, and 76% humidity.

🌩 Tuesday: Partly cloudy with a high near 91°F and WSW winds at 5 to 10 mph. Humidity will sit around 66%, and thunderstorms may develop late in the day, bringing a 30% rain chance. Tuesday night brings isolated evening storms, then clearing skies overnight with a low near 70°F. Winds will be from the west at 5 to 10 mph and humidity will climb to 81%.

🌦 Wednesday: Scattered thunderstorms are expected in the morning, transitioning to mainly cloudy skies with more storms in the afternoon. The high will be near 85°F with WSW winds at 5 to 10 mph and humidity at 60%. There’s a 30% chance of rain during the day. Overnight, expect partly cloudy skies with late showers or thunderstorms likely, a low near 63°F, and a 50% chance of rain. Winds will be from the south at 5 to 10 mph with 76% humidity.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.14
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.19
Casey’s West/North: $3.19
Beck’s West/North: $3.19
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.09
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.19

Peru Gas 👀

Sapp Bros.: $3.09

🏆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

• Buttercream Bake Shop will be at the Farmer’s Market today from 8:30 a.m. until noon (or until sold out) at Soldiers & Sailors Park. The menu includes 1/3-pound Ganache Stuffed S’mores cookies, Caramelita Cookies, and plenty of oatmeal cream pies, with a reminder that they won’t be back until July 26.

• Eclectic Joy is offering 40% off all remaining spring and summer flowers and greenery this weekend. It’s a great opportunity to refresh your home decor with vibrant seasonal blooms.

• Johnson’s Carpet Shoppe is asking for help spreading the word about their growing selection of decor, books, gifts, and children’s items. They’re working toward a goal of 800 followers and appreciate every like and share.

• The Cliff Restaurant and Event Center has introduced new Friday and Saturday menu items, including a Gyro with Fries, Chicken Strip Sammie, and Gyro Salad, all featuring fresh toppings and flavorful sauces. Finish your meal with $5 cinnamon and sugar Dessert Pretzels served with chocolate or caramel sauce.

  Barrel Society is hosting a weekend filled with good vibes and great food, featuring La Katrina Autentica serving Mexican cuisine on Saturday from 12–8 p.m. They’re also donating $2 from every Still Austin or Garrison Brothers cocktail to benefit the Community Fund for Texas Hill Country.

• Optimal Health has introduced a new line of refreshing mocktails for the summer season. These unique drinks are available now and perfect for your next summer gathering.

• Four Seasons – Princeton just received a new shipment of “Life is Good” graphic tees in round and v-neck styles, available in sizes small to XXXL. Enjoy 25% off with code WARM through July 13 when shopping in-store or online.

• Friends of Strays, Inc. introduces MJ, a 2-year-old pit mix who is quiet, affectionate, and loves to eat and perform tricks. He’s dog-friendly but prefers no cats, and he’s ready to meet his forever family.

• Boek-el-ZOO announced fresh feeders, new inventory, and heartfelt gratitude after 7.5 years of business. Customers who spend $25 can enjoy a dollar in quarters for their gumball machine, now stocked with bills and prizes.

• Dugosh Farms will be set up across from Dollar General on Saturday, July 12, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. They’ll offer sweet corn, zucchini, purple cauliflower, local honey, home-raised popcorn, and a wide array of dried spices and handmade goods.

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce invites the public to grab a Monster Peanut Butter Cookie from Myrtle’s Pies, available on July 12 from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. These massive treats are ready for a limited time.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is offering Ancient Egyptian replicas to enhance classroom learning, including a Queen Nefertiti bust and Pharaoh Tutankhamun heads. These pieces are affordably priced between $7 and $12 and are perfect for educators or homeschool families.

• Rachel Rene has fully restocked its Laundry Wash products in all sizes and scents. Shoppers can visit the store between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. or shop online anytime.

• Miss Betsy’s is featuring a Strawberry Streusel donut for July, filled with strawberry buttercream and jelly, topped with vanilla icing and streusel. It’s a sweet treat available now for a limited time.

• Rediger Auction Service is hosting a live and online retirement auction for K&K Farms and Plotner Bros on July 24 at 9:00 a.m. The preview is scheduled for July 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring clean farm equipment and antiques.

• Tossed & Found Resale + Consignment highlighted new arrivals in baby clothing, including sizes newborn to 3M. The shop is open until 6:00 p.m. at 225 Backbone Rd E #5.

• Bureau County Fair invited the community to the Queen’s Cookout at Wyanet Locker on July 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can meet candidates, enjoy lunch and sweets, and stay for the parade at 1 p.m.

• Bureau County Senior Center is taking reservations for the Celebration Belle “Classic Oldies” River Cruise. The event takes place Thursday, September 11 at 9:00 a.m., and costs $74.27 per person.

• Once Upon A Craft announced their art summer camp for ages 6-14, happening July 15-18 with creative activities like paint pouring and tie-dye. Registration is $150 and spots are now open.

• Connections Studio will hold an advanced jazz class with Isaiah Alatorre on July 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dancers and pom members are invited, and the class fee is $15.

• Wild Honey Boutique is holding a Steve Madden Blowout Sale, offering 25% off all Steve Madden items including dresses, tops, skirts, and more. The sale begins Tuesday and includes a wide range of stylish options.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is hosting a pizza fundraiser on Monday, July 14, to benefit the Princeton Youth Soccer League. For every pizza sold, $4.00 will be donated to support local youth sports and community involvement.

• Johnsons Carpet Shoppe highlights Luxury Vinyl as the most popular flooring they offer, featuring waterproof, kid- and pet-friendly, scratch-resistant styles. Customers are encouraged to explore their diverse collection now on display.

• Bureau County Fair reminds everyone that ticket prices for the Trace Adkins concert will increase after July 15. They encourage fans to secure the best deal by ordering tickets now for the August 21 show.

Upcoming:

• Georgia Peach Stop Event – Princeton: Tree-Ripe Fruit Co. brings fresh Georgia peaches to the Princeton Moose Lodge on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Come pick up hand-picked peaches delivered fresh from the farm, with fruit available on a first-come, first-served basis.

• National Ice Cream Day — Celebrate National Ice Cream Day at Sisler’s Ice Cream on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 421 S Main Street. Enjoy sweet treats, take part in a giveaway drawing at the end of the day, and stay tuned for specials.

• Share Night for SECOND STORY TEEN CENTER — Support the Second Story Teen Center at Culver’s on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 224 Ace Road. Eat in or drive through while helping raise funds for a great cause.

• Trace Adkins with Special Guest Brushville: Enjoy a live concert featuring Trace Adkins and special guest Brushville at the Bureau County Fairgrounds on Thursday, August 21, at 7:30 PM. www.bureaucountyfair.com. This event is part of the 170th Bureau County Fair, running August 20–24.

• Midnight Rider at Soldier & Sailors Park — Enjoy live music with Midnight Rider at Soldier & Sailors Park on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 700 S Main Street. Full event details will be posted soon.

• 12th Annual Artisan Market — Spend a beautiful fall day at the 12th Annual Artisan Market at Hornbaker Gardens on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Enjoy 30+ fine artists, food trucks, home-baked goods, live music, beer and wine, local produce, artisan popsicles, and more — free admission.

🏆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 JOB OPENINGS

• Adam Hellman - State Farm Agent in Princeton is hiring a full-time Receptionist to join their team, offering a salary between $45,000 and $55,000 per year. The role involves greeting customers, managing appointments, assisting with inquiries, maintaining records, and supporting office operations. The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about providing excellent customer service in a professional environment. Benefits include health insurance, paid time off, a flexible schedule, performance-based bonuses, a Simple IRA, and opportunities for advancement. This position is ideal for someone eager to grow within the insurance industry while contributing to a positive team atmosphere.

• Aldi is hiring a full-time Assistant Store Manager in Princeton, IL, offering $24–$25 per hour for approximately 38 hours per week. The role involves supporting the direct leader in implementing action plans, supervising staff, maintaining store standards, and ensuring high levels of customer service. Key duties include inventory management, staff training, merchandising, and contributing to operational efficiency and safety. Physical demands include lifting up to 45 pounds and performing tasks such as stocking, shelving, and walking throughout the store. Candidates must be at least 18 years old with strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

• Friends of Strays in Princeton is hiring a part-time Animal Care Cat Specialist to provide daily care and support for shelter cats. Responsibilities include feeding, cleaning, administering medications, monitoring health, and maintaining accurate care records. Candidates should have previous experience in animal care, strong communication skills, and the ability to lift heavy items. The position requires flexibility, reliability, and a genuine passion for animal welfare. Pay ranges from $15 to $16 per hour, with an expected workload of 25 hours per week.

🏋️AT THE METRO CENTER

Junior High Strength and Conditioning Clinic

The Bureau County Metro Center is offering a Junior High Strength & Conditioning clinic from July 14th to July 17th. This one-week program is designed to help junior high athletes in Bureau County improve physically and build foundational strength. The camp targets students entering 5th through 8th grade, with separate time slots: 5th & 6th graders will meet from 10:30–11:15 AM, and 7th & 8th graders from 11:30 AM–12:15 PM. The fee is tiered at $40, $45, or $50 depending on registration timing or other factors. Classes will be capped at 8 participants to ensure more individualized instruction.

Participants will benefit from continued development, better agility, stronger self-esteem, increased skill, a strong base for gaining strength, and safety through strength development. Other benefits include promoting teamwork and encouraging a strong work ethic. The program teaches proper warmups, stretching, exercise techniques, and sport-specific training. It’s an excellent opportunity for youth to gain confidence and compete at a higher level.

To register, visit the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Early registration is encouraged due to limited spots.

Adult Dodgeball Tournament

The Adult Dodgeball Tournament is coming to the BCMC Gym on Saturday, July 19th. Open to participants ages 21 and up, this event features 5-player teams competing in a double elimination format. Each matchup consists of three 10-minute games, with the winner determined by the last team standing or the team with the most players remaining. Matches begin at 6:00 PM, but all players must arrive by 5:30 PM for a rules explanation. The cost is $100 per team.

Attendees can enjoy a cash bar and free pizza while supplies last. This high-energy evening promises fun competition and great social interaction. To register, stop by the Metro Center in person, call 815-872-0840, or sign up online. Spots are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

📚JULY BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Princeton Public Library will hold their July Book Sale next week on Thursday, July 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children’s paperback picture books will be available at a special rate—4 for $1. There will also be a wide variety of audiobooks priced at just $1 each. Puzzle donations have greatly increased, so Thursday is the best day to come for the top picks. The sale will take place at the Princeton Public Library, 698 E Peru St.

🦌LETTER FROM LORI

Disney has such insight! Bambi has always been one of my favorites, but until recently, I never realized how clearly the big “GOD” message is written all over it.

One of the most powerful scenes—and the one that evokes the most emotion in me—is when Bambi’s mother introduces him to the meadow for the first time. She approaches cautiously, sniffing and testing the wind. She knows she needs to go there, but she’s also aware of the dangers.

In the meadow, we see sweet, nourishing grass. There’s wide open space for running. Other deer are there. The sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, and Bambi wants to be there. He needs to be there. For me, the meadow represents God’s love. There are so many good and wonderful things to be found in that light—things I can’t live without. I need to be fed. I need companionship with others of my kind (Christians). I need to exercise my faith in a space that allows me to stretch and grow. I need the joy and fulfillment that can only be found in Christ.

But as I run toward the meadow, I also have to acknowledge the dangers. As a Christian basking in God’s grace and light, I am more visible to the enemy. The hunter—Satan—can see me more clearly. My actions are more closely watched, and eyes I cannot see are observing me. I cannot be unaware of these dangers; I must remain alert and guarded. That’s why Bambi’s mother took her time. She watched. She sniffed the air. She used every sense available.

Still, even with caution, we can’t always anticipate every threat. Sometimes, like Bambi’s mother, we’re wounded while fleeing an attack. With each trial, we learn what it takes to survive in the meadow. We grow wiser and better equipped to pass on that knowledge. We use both our joys and wounds to guide those who come behind us. In her death, Bambi’s mother was still teaching him.

So go find your Bambi. Impart the wisdom you’ve gained through your walks in the woods and your journeys through the meadow. Don’t be afraid to find purpose in your scars—your experience is a gift worth sharing.

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

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