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Good morning, Princeton friends. On August 1, 1981, MTV launched on cable television, revolutionizing American pop culture and the music industry. The channel’s first music video, “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles, symbolized the shift toward visual storytelling in music. MTV quickly became a cultural phenomenon, shaping fashion trends, youth culture, and the way audiences consumed music.

Let’s roll.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
🏈Football Schedule
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
💼Princeton Businesses
🏀3 on 3 Basketball
💭Remember in Princeton
🏡Property Transfers
🚁National Night Out
🪶Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Lori Boekeloo, Katlyn Sanden, and Nicole Nyman 🎂!

• The Rotary Club of Princeton is hosting Lunch in the Park today, August 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring grilled shrimp, sloppy joes, hot dogs, and $1 sides. All proceeds will benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund, with pickup and delivery available.

• Bureau County Fair reminds concertgoers that now is the time to grab Trace Adkins tickets. The concert is set for Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. The Bureau County Fair has announced that band 303 will perform live from 1–4 p.m. on Sunday, August 24. Fairgoers are invited to enjoy this energetic afternoon concert as part of Sunday Funday at the fair.

• The Monster Mash Balloon Bash will take place on October 4 at the Bureau County Fairgrounds, offering a festive mix of tricks, treats, and scares. You are encouraged to mark your calendar and watch for additional event details coming soon.

• Trial Postponed For Alleged Farm Management Thief In Bureau County

• BCR: Patrick Smith, an assistant coach, has been named as the next head coach for Princeton HS baseball.

• Liberty Village of Princeton is hosting a school supply drive beginning August 1 to support local students. Donations of classroom essentials can be dropped off anytime at their location on North 6th Street.

• The Homestead Festival team encourages community members to register their floats for the annual parade by August 8. A major announcement about the 2025 parade is expected soon, and all parade details can be found at homesteadfestival.com.

📍Outside City Limits

• The St. Jude Rides Golf Scramble will take place at Hidden Lake Golf Club in Sheffield on Saturday, August 30. Registration is $60 per person and includes 18 holes of best ball, dinner, fun, prizes, a 50/50 drawing, and a silent auction—all supporting children battling cancer.

• Sheffield Locker is stepping up to meet local demand following the closure of Wyanet Locker. They are now accepting wholesale, retail, and custom orders, with contact available at 815-454-2407.

• Peru Mayor Reveals Projected Opening Date For Five Below Store

• La Salle Man Indicted on Record-Setting Drug Charges

• Local Sheriff’s Office Seeks Public’s Help Identifying Suspect in June Arson Case

• Impressive Rain Totals Across The Valley

• Taste of the Illinois Valley Runs through Sunday

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• Listed at $114,999, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath carriage house at 810 W Railroad Ave offers 1,296 sq ft of living space on 2.52 acres at the edge of town. Built in 2008, the property is zoned R-3, allowing for residential use and potential expansion with additional dwellings. While some renovation projects are incomplete, cabinetry is already purchased and ready for installation—making it a great opportunity for sweat equity. The lot includes a one-car garage, and an additional two acres with a hay barn can be purchased for a combined price of $149,900. With an estimated payment of $874/month, it provides flexibility, space, and country charm near city access.

• 444 S Chestnut St in Princeton is a beautifully updated two-story home listed at $180,000, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,636 square feet. Built in 1886 and situated on a corner lot, the home showcases wood floors, an open-concept family room, and a versatile flex room for dining, office, or play. The kitchen includes vaulted ceilings, abundant cabinetry, and ample counter space, ideal for casual dining or entertaining. Highlights include an updated spa-style bathroom, full basement for storage, oversized heated garage, and a fenced backyard with a cozy outdoor fireplace. With no HOA and a price of $110 per square foot, this home combines historical charm with modern comfort.

• Located just a block from Princeton’s art district, this charming 2-story home at 26 Elm Pl is listed at $169,900. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,891 sq ft, it features original oak flooring and staircase, a vintage tin ceiling by in the dining room, and abundant natural light. The L-shaped dining area offers flexible space for a coffee bar, office, or plant nook. The home includes a fenced yard, screened-in porch, updated furnace, plumbing, A/C, sump pump, and hot water heater—all replaced since 2020. A spacious layout and recent improvements make this corner-lot home a standout at just $848/month estimated mortgage.

🐅2025-26 PHS Varsity Football Schedule

All games start at 7:00 PM

• August 29 – at Newman Central Catholic

• September 5 – vs Rockridge

• September 12 – at Sherrard*

• September 19 – vs Kewanee*

• September 26 – vs Monmouth-Roseville*

• October 3 – at Hall/Putnam County*

• October 10 – vs Mendota*

• October 17 – vs Mercer County*

• October 24 – vs Erie-Prophetstown

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

⛅ Today: Mostly sunny with a mix of clouds. High of 78°F and low of 55°F make for a mild, enjoyable day. Winds from the east-southeast at 8 mph. Humidity is steady at 77%, but overall comfort is high. Night remains partly cloudy and cool.

🌤 Saturday: Partly cloudy skies and continued dry conditions. High temperature near 80°F with a low of 57°F. Winds light from the east-southeast at 5–10 mph. Humidity drops slightly to 70%, and overall it’s a great day to be outdoors. Evening expected with only a few clouds.

⛅ Sunday: Mild and comfortable with partly sunny skies. High around 82°F and low near 60°F. Winds light from the southeast at 5–10 mph. Humidity remains near 70%, keeping the day warm but pleasant. Night stays mostly clear and calm.

🌤 Monday: Mostly sunny with scattered clouds and dry conditions. High of 83°F and low of 61°F. Winds from the south at 5–10 mph bring slightly warmer air. Humidity rises to 72%, adding a touch of stickiness during the afternoon. Evening skies remain mostly clear.

⛅ Tuesday: A mix of sun and clouds with continued warm weather. High temperature near 84°F and a low of 62°F. Winds remain light from the southwest at 5–10 mph. Humidity holds around 72%, but conditions stay comfortable overall.

🌧 Wednesday: Partly sunny early with a 40% chance of afternoon showers or a thunderstorm. High around 85°F and low near 64°F. Winds from the west-southwest at 8–12 mph. Humidity at 75% makes it feel warmer, with a mild and partly cloudy night.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.19
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.23
Casey’s West/North: $3.19
Beck’s West/North: $3.26
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.09
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.26

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🤼 Micro Wrestling at The Hawg House – A 21+ night of suplexes and body slams under 5 feet tall. Friday, August 1, 8–10 PM at Hawg House Saloon.

🚶 Walk a Mile for Freedom House – A downtown walk to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Saturday, August 2 at 9 AM. Includes teams, prizes, and activities.

🍦 Chelsea Gives Back and Dairy Queen Fundraiser – Support Chelsea Gives Back with $1 from all Blizzard sales donated. Saturday, August 2, at 5:00 PM at Dairy Queen, 615 N Main Street.

🎤Kelly & Sarah at Pow Wow Days – Enjoy country originals and covers in the Beer Garden during Tiskilwa’s annual Pow Wow Days on Saturday, August 2, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at 430 W Main Street, Tiskilwa.

🥪 Snackle Box Class – Learn to prepare wholesome snack boxes for car trips, school, and more. Monday, August 4, 3–4:30 PM at Bureau County Farm Bureau. Free class; reservations by July 28 at 815-440-8737.

🚲 Monthly Community Bike Ride – Join an easy community ride around Princeton. Tuesday, August 5, 6–7 PM at Darrius Miller Park.

🎸 The Wise Guys at the Princeton Inn – Party with live music by The Wise Guys. Saturday, August 16 at 6 PM at the Princeton Inn.

🎶 Pretend Friend at Barrel Society – Enjoy progressive bluegrass with Pretend Friend, a nationally touring band from Wichita, Kansas. Wednesday, August 13 at 7 PM at Barrel Society.

🎸 The Wise Guys at the Princeton Inn – Party with live music by The Wise Guys. Saturday, August 16 at 6 PM at the Princeton Inn.

🩸 Health Screening Blood Draw Clinic – Take part in a preventive blood screening hosted by the Bureau County Farm Bureau. Friday, August 22, 6–9 AM at 1407 N Main St, Princeton.

🎵 David Miner & Charlie Jones – Enjoy country storytelling and songwriting from David Miner and Charlie Jones. Thursday, August 28 at 7 PM at Barrel Society.

🎤 Trace Adkins with Brushville – Country music at the Bureau County Fair. Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 PM. Tickets at bureacountyfair.com.

🥁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.

🐶 UKC/SRS Dock Jumping Season Shutdown – Dock jumping competitions for dogs with UKC/SRS registration. September 13–14 at 1616 N Main Street. Details and registration at ukcdogs.com.

🛍️ 12th Annual Artisan Market – Over 30 artists, food trucks, live music, beer & wine at Hornbaker Gardens. Saturday, September 20, 10 AM–4 PM. Free admission.

🏍️ Princeton Swap Meet – Find unique items and motorcycle parts at this popular swap meet. Sunday, November 9, 8 AM–2 PM at 811 W Peru St. $10 admission; vending $50.

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🌼DANDELION WISHES REFURBISHED FURNITURE

Michelle DeVoss has this refurbished lodge chair available at her home shop in Sheffield. The front and back have been decoupaged with a buffalo and a southwestern design and sealed for durability. The frame and seat have also been redesigned. This is a unique chair that will make a statement. Asking price is $250 and limited delivery may be available. 

Be sure to follow “Dandelion Wishes Refurbished Furniture” on Facebook for upcoming projects! Michelle can be reached through Facebook Messenger or by email at [email protected]. 

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Finders Keepers is seeking a Friday afternoon volunteer to support the Friends of Strays Animal Shelter and contribute to a joyful team environment. No experience is necessary—just a kind heart and a willingness to help.

• City of Princeton Animal Control introduced Everest, a 1–3 year old female husky available for adoption. She’s friendly, potty trained, good with other dogs, and can be visited at 1118 N. Church Street.

• Myrtle’s Pies announced they will be closed for vacation from July 27 through August 13. Customers are encouraged to plan ahead for their next sweet visit once the bakery reopens.

• Dairy Queen of Princeton has launched its new Blizzard of the Month: Reese’s Caramel Craze. The treat features Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, salted caramel truffles, and chocolatey shavings.

• 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.

• The Bureau County Fair is hosting a Brownie Baking Contest with youth and adult categories as part of its 170th annual fair. Judging will take place Friday, August 22, and entries are due by August 4, with gift cards awarded to top winners.

• Connections Studio is inviting intermediate and advanced musical theatre performers ages 12 and up to a workshop on Saturday, August 2. The class runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with a minimum donation fee of $8 and doors opening at 11 a.m.

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🏀3 ON 3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

The Homestead Festival 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Alexander Park, 500 S. Anderson Street. Games will begin at 8:00 a.m. sharp. Online registration is open now, and teams that register before August 21 will receive a free t-shirt. After August 21, teams can still register, but no t-shirt will be provided. The cost is $80 per team, and space is limited to 30 teams total, so early registration is encouraged. First place team medals will be awarded in boys and girls divisions for grades 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8 (entering grade as of August 2025). All proceeds benefit the Illinois Valley Rimrockers Organization. Register here. More details can also be found here. Event fees will be refunded if the tournament is cancelled.

💭REMEMBER IN PRINCETON

Jamie Lee Cherry: “An original Princeton High School auditorium chair ~ my dad salvaged it right before they renovated the school in the 70s. No one sits in it because it's hard & uncomfortable...but it's still a pretty cool piece of history.”

🪶TISKILWA POW WOW DAYS

Thursday, July 31 — Family Night

Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days kicks off on Thursday, July 31 with Family Fun Night from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Families can enjoy face painting, a petting zoo, games, and other activities during the evening. Free bouncy houses will be open from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm for kids to enjoy. Touch A Truck will take place during the same time, allowing children to explore local fire trucks, EMS vehicles, and farm equipment. DJ Chuck Hopper will provide music for a kids’ dance from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Friday, August 1

Friday, August 1 features historical exhibits at the Historical Society’s Museum on Main and the Gallery on Galena, both open from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The Tiskilwa Community Association Beer Garden opens at 5:00 pm and runs until midnight. Bouncy houses will be available from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm for $10 armbands. The TCA Kids Pedal Tractor Pull for ages 4 to 12 starts at 6:00 pm. An ice cream eating contest for both kids and adults will be held at 7:00 pm. The TCA Draw Down takes place at 7:00 pm, with tickets available by calling 815-646-4121. The night wraps up with BRUSHVILLE in concert at the Beer Garden from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Saturday, August 2

Saturday, August 2 begins with a 5K race, with registration at 7:00 am and race time at 8:00 am. The Historical Society’s Museum on Main will be open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The parade on Main Street starts at 11:00 am with the theme “Turn Back Time.” A community church lunch will be served from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Tiskilwa Community Church. Bouncy houses and waterslides will be open from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm for $10 or $20 armbands, depending on duration. The bean bag tournament will begin around 11:30 am. The Historical Society’s Gallery on Galena is open from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Tiskilwa Fire Department will host kids’ water fights from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm. Kelly and Sarah Finch will perform at 4:00 pm with an acoustic set in the Beer Garden. The Tiskilwa High School Alumni Banquet will be held at Indian Valley Inn, with happy hour at 5:00 pm and dinner at 6:00 pm. Bouncy houses reopen from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The day closes with HAIRBANGER’S BALL in the Beer Garden from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Sunday, August 3

Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days concludes on Sunday, August 3 with a Community Outdoor Church Service at the West Park Shelter at 10:30 am.

🚁NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

The Princeton Police Department is hosting a National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Zearing Park on South Euclid Street. The evening is dedicated to community awareness and crime prevention, in partnership with the Princeton Park District. Attendees will enjoy free hot dogs, chips, and water. Scheduled activities include a K-9 demonstration at 6:30 p.m., drone demonstrations, face painting, a blood drive, and emergency vehicle tours. Special attractions include the LifeFlight helicopter, a mobile command center, and balloon twisting by Mr. Cinnamon. The event encourages families to meet public safety personnel in a relaxed setting. Numerous local partners and supporters will be present, including the Princeton Fire Department, OSF Life Flight, Culver’s, and many more. Everyone is invited to attend and connect with those who serve the community.

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