🏃‍♂️Freedom 5k Color Run, the Bluewater Kings Band, and a Rubik’s Cube

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Good morning, Princeton. We have an absolutely gorgeous few days ahead of us — grill out, light some sparklers, go for a run, play some golf, do some yard work, try a cartwheel, practice your yodeling, solve a Rubik’s cube on your roof. So many options.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🎇Local Fireworks Shows
🌤️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
🏡Home for Sale
🎸Local Music
⛪️Churches
🗓️Princeton Upcoming Events
🍿At the Apollo
🎆Your Pets on the 4th of July

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Kevin Hieronymus: Remembering Geno Storm: He was one of a kind

• Runners: begin your Fourth of July festivities with the annual FREEDOM 5K COLOR RUN, hosted by Arukah. This festive event encourages participants to "paint the town red, white, and blue," while also paying tribute to our military heroes. It promises an unforgettable day of excitement and joy for all ages, making it the perfect family outing to kick off your holiday weekend. Click here to register for this colorful celebration of freedom.

• Celebrate Independence Day at Zearing Park this July 4th, presented by the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Princeton Park District. The event promises a day full of fun, food, and fireworks, perfect for family and friends. Food enthusiasts will enjoy a variety of options from local favorites like Farmer Smoked BBQ, Maria's Pizza, and refreshments served by Boy Scouts. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Bluewater Kings Band will perform live from 6 PM to 9 PM, providing a musical backdrop to the evening's activities. The highlight of the celebration will be a spectacular fireworks display at dusk, capping off a day of community spirit and enjoyment. Be sure to join the community at Zearing Park for a memorable Fourth of July!

• 7 Loveliest Small Towns To Visit In Illinois This Summer: “You can spend a day or two wandering down Princeton's 2.5-mile main street, checking out specialty boutiques, cafes, eateries, and antique malls. For nature enthusiasts, lush Zearing Park, City County Park, and Soldiers and Sailors Park offer peaceful respites away from the bustling downtown.”

🎇LOCAL FIREWORKS SHOWS

• Mendota | Lake Mendota | June 29th

• Peru | Water St. | July 3rd

• Geneseo | Richmond Hill Park | July 4th

• Henry | Riverfront | July 4th

• Princeton | Zearing | July 4th

• Utica | Carey Memorial Park | July 5th

• Ottawa | 3215 E. 1969th Rd. | July 6th

• Walnut | July 7th

Fireworks History

Fireworks originated in the second century B.C. in Liuyang, China, with bamboo stalks thrown into fires creating loud bangs that were believed to ward off evil spirits. Over the centuries, this evolved into the use of gunpowder packed into bamboo and later paper tubes, which was further developed in Europe before becoming a staple of celebrations in the U.S., particularly during the Fourth of July. Early U.S. settlers incorporated fireworks into the very first Independence Day celebrations, a tradition enthusiastically sustained to this day. Today, fireworks are a prominent feature of not only Independence Day but also other major American celebrations and contribute significantly to local economies, as seen in events like Thunder Over Louisville.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Princeton experiences its warmest month in July, with historical data indicating an average high of 85°F and a nightly low around 65°F, providing comfortable days and pleasant evenings Rainfall peaks this month, averaging 4.02 inches, reflecting the season's significant contribution to the region's agricultural richness and greenery.

Today: Expect mostly sunny skies throughout the day with some clouds appearing intermittently. High temperatures will reach around 76°F, with winds coming from the ESE at 5 to 10 mph. The evening will turn partly cloudy, eventually leading to more overcast conditions overnight. Temperatures will dip to a low of about 62°F, with winds shifting to the SE at 10 to 15 mph.

Tuesday: The day will start cloudy but will clear slightly with partial sunshine by the afternoon. The high will be around 85°F, with winds from the S at 10 to 20 mph. Evening conditions will include early showers that could develop into a steady rain with a potential for heavy rainfall. The chance of rain is 90%, with overnight lows near 70°F and winds from the SSW at 10 to 20 mph.

Wednesday: Mostly cloudy skies will dominate the day with a high near 86°F. Winds will be lighter, coming from the W at 5 to 10 mph. As the evening progresses, clouds will increase, and there's a chance for showers after midnight. The low will be around 67°F, with light and variable winds, and a 40% chance of rain.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.49
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.66
Casey’s West/North: $3.69
Beck’s West/North: $3.69
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.69
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.69

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Join the Princeton Public Library at Hornbaker Gardens on July 8th, at 8 AM for a garden photography workshop. Dave Cook will be teaching the basics of flower photography, including lessons on framing and angles. Participants will then apply these techniques during a guided walk through the gardens. This event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own cameras or phones for photography.

• Little Blue Dress is holding a flash sale, offering half off on t-shirts sized small to extra-large, now priced at $13.50 each.

• Friends of Strays is seeking to expand their staff, looking for reliable individuals who can work 3 days a week, with Sundays being a mandatory workday. The job involves animal care, including cleaning and feeding, and offers $14.00 per hour for 15-20 hours per week. Interested candidates can stop by the shelter for an application on Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays between 12-3 PM; they request that no messages be sent regarding the position.

• Celebrate "Despicable Me 4 Day" at the Apollo Theater on July 3rd with showtimes at 3:00 PM, 5:15 PM, and 7:30 PM. The event will feature Minion activity sheets and an opportunity to meet and take pictures with an oversized Minion while supplies last.

• Xan Dandy Cotton Candy Co. is thrilled to announce their presence next to the food trucks at Princeton's spectacular fireworks show this year, setting up at Zearing Park from 5pm to 10pm, or until sold out.

• Café Grace is hosting a "Brunch & Bubbly" event inspired by Audrey Hepburn on August 3rd from 11 AM to 2 PM. Ladies are invited to dress in their favorite black dress, start at Sophisticuts Salon Spa for tiaras and lipstick, then enjoy brunch, mimosas, kiddie cocktails, and more at Café Grace. Reservations are required; book your ticket by providing your name, phone number, email address, and number of people via Facebook (Café Grace), text at 815-719-9921, or email at [email protected].

• Don’t miss the Whiskey & Sausage Fest with the Barrel Society on July 3rd, featuring homemade sausages, exclusive pours, and live bluegrass music.

• Four Seasons offering a 26% discount on entire purchases using the code SPARKLE, valid until July 7th. The promotion includes free shipping on orders over $75 before the discount but excludes brands like Judy Blue, Isabel Bloom, Hallmark, Bethany Lowe, Pegasus Gifts, and others listed under Steals & Deals.

• Golden Rice Authentic Thai Food announces their operating hours for this week: Tuesday and Wednesday, July 2-3. They will be open for lunch from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM and for dinner from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Specials include Mango and Sticky Rice, and they wish everyone a happy and safe holiday.

• Celebrate Christmas in July with The Knack's paint party on July 27th from 12 to 7 PM. Enjoy painting Christmas-themed pottery and sipping complimentary iced peppermint mochas, with activities suitable for all ages. Don't forget to buy your $10 ticket online and come dressed in your favorite Christmas outfit to enjoy festive music and decorations.

• Greenfield Retirement Home is hosting a Vendor Fair on Friday, July 5th, from 9 AM to 4 PM. They are inviting local vendors, artists, antique sellers, and crafters to participate. There is no cost for a 10x10 space, but participants must provide their own tents, tables, and chairs. Interested vendors should contact Chris Thompson, Activity Director, at [email protected] or call 815-872-2261 by June 28 to register. Enjoy food and beverages sold by Royal Family Kids Camp - Bureau County during the event.

• Get ready for the 4th of July with personalized items from Made by Nana Faye, including custom shirts and bucket hats. Perfect for party favors, these items can be ordered now to ensure timely delivery.

• Shelley Barnett and Plexus have unveiled their top-selling 3-product Gut Health Supplement System designed to optimize microbiome health.

• The Studio Boutique is gearing up for the Fourth of July, inviting customers to stop by and select their holiday outfits. They are open extended hours this Tuesday from 9 AM to 7 PM to accommodate shoppers.

• Corner Chair Market has recently showcased two stylish desks, fully set up and ready for action. Each desk features a unique design, one with a contemporary black and wood tone finish and the other in a vintage multi-wood patchwork style, both complemented by matching chairs, perfect for enhancing any home office or workspace.

• Tossed & Found Resale + Consignment is excited to announce the grand opening of their consignment shop on July 19th, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, located at 225 Backbone RD E #5. They invite everyone to explore a treasure trove of unique finds and stylish bargains, from vintage gems to trendy pieces and one-of-a-kind accessories. Don't miss this opportunity to add some fabulous additions to your wardrobe and home.

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👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Merchandise Manager | Family Dollar | Full-time | Health insurance, Dental insurance, Paid time off

• Production Technician | Corteva | Full-time | Health insurance, Paid time off

• Purchasing Clerk | Monterey Mushrooms, LLC. | Full-time | Health insurance

• Domestic Violence Advocate | Freedom House, Inc. | Full-time | $19.50-19.85 an hour, Health insurance, Dental insurance, Paid time off

• Team Member | Tractor Supply Company | Full-time and Part-time

• Delivery Driver (Part-Time) | AutoZone | Full-time and Part-time | Health insurance

• Sales Floor Associate | Dollar Tree | Full-time

• Maintenance Tech II | OSF HealthCare | Full-time

• Food & Grocery | Walmart | Full-time and Part-time | Health insurance, Dental insurance, Paid time off

• Cashier | Road Ranger, LLC | Full-time and Part-time | $13.20–17.42 an hour

• Cashier & Front End Services | Walmart | Full-time

• Delivery Driver | Pizza Hut | Full-time

• BPART Driver | Gateway Services, Inc | Full-time

Add a job to the list — email: [email protected]

🏠PRINCETON HOME FOR SALE

The property at 710 E. Central is listed for sale at $229,900 and boasts a single-owner brick ranch on a generously sized 100x144 lot. It features three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, with an inviting eat-in kitchen and a laundry room, both finished with practical wood flooring. The home includes a dining room, living room, and family room, the latter of which opens onto a pleasant patio through sliding glass doors. Amenities include a two-car attached garage, central air conditioning, and efficient electric baseboard heating, ensuring the home is comfortable throughout the year. This property has been meticulously maintained and is move-in ready.

For more information or to contact the seller, phone: 608-347-0437

⛪️CHURCHES

Princeton Bible Church is celebrating their 60th anniversary and would love for you to join in the fun and fellowship on July 7th. The day will begin with coffee and donuts at 8:30am, a full morning of worship, and lunch to follow. There will be a special program at 1pm, and then games afterward. We’d love to see you there. Jeopardy will be hosted by yours truly!

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church on the Hill is hosting the John Linker Organ Concert on Sunday, July 14, at 1:30 PM. John Linker, a former member of the Church on the Hill and current director of music at ChristChurch Cathedral in New Zealand, will entertain the audience with his performance. A free-will offering will be collected, with proceeds going to a local charity yet to be determined. Refreshments will be served in the fellowship hall following the concert.

Seatonville Community Church invites all children ages 4 to entering 8th grade to join a thrilling week at Vacation Bible School. From July 15th to July 19th, the church, located at 110 U.S. Route 6, Seatonville, will host the event from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. This year’s theme, "Wild LIVE," highlights Christ's character and features an array of activities including worship music, captivating Bible stories, and inspiring missionary stories. Participants will also enjoy crafts, snacks, games, and more. For registration or more information, please call 815-915-6391 or 815-894-2248. Don't miss this fun-filled opportunity!

• Bureau Township Community Church | July 8th-12th | 6pm | Website 

• Princeton First United Methodist Church | July 8th-11th | 6pm | Sign Up

🤝HELP WANTED

Dauber Company, a manufacturer of high-quality silicon carbide products, is family-owned and operated and is located in Tonica, Illinois.

We are hiring experienced maintenance workers starting at $32/hr, entry-level maintenance workers at $25-31/hr, and laborers starting at $24/hr.

Dauber Company offers paid holidays and vacation, 100% free medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k plan, profit sharing, and advancement opportunities.

Apply by sending an email to [email protected], mailing to 577 N. 18th Rd, Tonica, or calling 815-442-3569, extension *813.

🗓️PRINCETON UPCOMING EVENTS

• Cabaret | Grace Theater | June 22nd-Aug 6th

• Festival 56 Summer Season | Soldiers and Sailors | June 22nd-August 4th

• Bluewater Kings Band | Zearing Park | July 4th

• Arukah’s Freedom Color Run | Soldiers & Sailors Park | July 4, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Fourth of July at Zearing Park | July 4, 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM

• Overdrive Monster Trucks | Bureau County Fairgrounds | July 20, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM

• Festival 56 presents Grease | Festival 56 | July 25 - August 4th

• 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony | Princeton | September 11th

• Bureau County Fair, Mitchell Tenpenny | Fairgrounds | August 22nd

Add your event to the list — email: [email protected]

🍿AT THE APOLLO

Horizon Pt. 1 (R)

• A gripping thriller exploring the dark secrets of a dystopian future.

• Showtimes: Tuesday & Wednesday: 3:15 PM & 7:00 PM; Thursday: 3:15 PM only

Inside Out 2 (PG)

• Join the emotions in Riley's mind as they embark on a new adventure in this delightful sequel.

• Showtimes: Tuesday (Last day!): 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM

Despicable Me 4 (PG)

• Gru and the Minions return for another hilarious adventure.

• Special Event: Despicable Me 4 Day on Wednesday, July 3rd; Activities: Minion activity sheets and an oversized Minion for photos (while supplies last)

• Showtimes: 3:00 PM, 5:15 PM & 7:30 PM

🎆YOUR PETS ON 4TH OF JULY

From Friends of Strays

Keep your pets safe this Fourth of July! More pets go missing on this day than any other time of the year, so take extra precautions. If possible, leave your dogs at home with a frozen stuffed treat to keep them busy. Ensure their ID tags are visible and updated. Plan your walks early in the day before festivities start, and create a quiet environment indoors by playing soft music to help soothe pets scared by fireworks. Keep pets away from fireworks, open fires, and sparklers. And always have some dog treats on hand to keep them close by. Celebrate safely and make this holiday enjoyable for everyone, including our furry friends. Happy 4th of July!

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