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Good Wednesday morning, neighbor. No Princetonians have participated in the Olympics…yet. But I’ve got a good feeling about the next one.

Let’s do it.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅For Your To-Do List
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏠Tri-County Opportunities
💼Princeton Businesses
🏷️Local Sales
⚡️From the Bureau County EMA
📍Outside City Limits
📈Princeton Facts and Figures
🌳The Bureau County Metro Center

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Carol Gale, Tim Oloffson, and Megan Gibson!🍰

• KWQC: “A man in Bureau County pleaded guilty on two felonies for stealing a van, courts say. According to Bureau County courts, Dean W. Blair was charged with unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle and theft, both Class 2 felonies. In Oct. 2023, Blair was accused of stealing a van with sound, court documents said. On July 11, courts sentenced Blair to 3.5 years in prison and ordered to pay $14,686.62 in restitution.”

• WQAD: Writing their next chapter: Second Story Teen Center in Bureau County starts building new location.

• Starved Rock Media: Eighteen-year-old Hannah Hubinsky of La Salle was chosen as Miss Bureau County Fair. She also took home the title of Miss Photogenic.

• The Logan Lions Softball team is hosting an equipment fundraiser with a $20 donation per ticket. Prizes include a 36" Blackstone Griddle, White Sox tickets, a YETI cooler, and custom cornhole boards with designs from popular sports teams. The drawing will be held on August 31st, and the winner does not need to be present to win.

• The Bureau County Senior Center has received $50 farmers market vouchers for eligible residents. To qualify, you must live in Bureau County, be over 60 years old, meet the income guidelines (details available in the comments), and bring a photo ID. These vouchers will go fast, so if you meet the criteria, contact Celia at 815-879-3981 to claim yours.

• Join the community for the Sweet Corn for St. Jude fundraiser at the First Presbyterian Church. Enjoy fresh sweet corn and support a great cause with curbside pickup available. Place your orders by commenting, texting/calling 815-866-4735, or calling the church at 815-875-1306.

• The Prairie Arts Council presents "Bring Him Home: Opera Concert for the Arts," featuring beautiful arias, art songs, and contemporary music performed by local talents. The event includes a Gala Experience on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 5:00 PM with appetizers, cocktails, and a gallery exhibit, followed by a performance at 6:00 PM at the Prairie Arts Center Theater. A matinee performance will be held on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Princeton High School; tickets can be reserved by emailing [email protected] or calling 815-875-2631 x 1014.

• The deadline to apply for the Princeton Fire Academy is August 14th. Ensure all paperwork, including the registration form, medical info card, and liability waiver, is submitted on time. For questions, contact the Fire Department.

• The Bureau County Fair is hosting country music artist Mitchell Tenpenny on August 22nd. Tickets for this exciting event are available now at www.bureaucountyfair.com. Don't miss out on a night of fantastic live music and entertainment!

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✅FOR YOUR TO-DO LIST

• The Public Library invites you to an Adult Coloring Night on July 31st from 5-7pm. Coloring supplies and bookmarks will be provided, or you can bring your own materials. Join others for a relaxing evening of creativity.

• Join the "Sunflower Grazer" Paint Night at the Downtown Pub & Event Center today at 6 PM. Create a beautiful country Highland cow painting with a sunflower, perfect for the season. The event costs $35 per participant, and you can book online at paintingpartiesbylucy.com.

• The Covered Bridge Quilter’s Guild will meet on Thursday, August 1st at 6:30 PM at the New Hope Church of the Nazarene, 30 N. Sixth St., Princeton, IL. This month's program features a "Challenge Night" where members will showcase their "Roll the Dice" challenge projects, using specific colors and blocks determined earlier this year. Guests are welcome with a $5.00 fee, applicable toward membership; new members can join for an annual fee of $24.00, with further details available by contacting Mary Serafini at 815-339-2171 or Cindy Smith at 573-603-4234.

• Mark your calendars for the Rotary Club of Princeton’s Lunch in the Park Scholarship Fundraiser on Friday, August 2nd, from 11 AM to 1 PM at Soldiers & Sailors Park. Enjoy a variety of delicious meal options, including grilled shrimp, sloppy joes, and all-beef hot dogs, with proceeds supporting local scholarships. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy a tasty lunch while supporting a great cause!

• The Prairie Arts Center will feature Shannon Slaight’s art exhibit "Shape-Shifter" from August 2nd to 25th. An opening reception will be held on August 2nd from 6-8pm with refreshments. The gallery is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-3pm.

• Join Argonaut Co. at Barrel Society on Saturday, August 3rd from 12 PM to 6 PM for a seafood extravaganza featuring Lobster Rolls, Shrimp Rolls, freshly shucked Oysters, and seafood boils. Indulge in these delights alongside an array of cocktails, beer, whiskey, and wine. Preordering is highly recommended, with tickets available here until Friday, August 2nd; Barrel Society is located at 930 N Main St., Princeton, IL 61356.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

⛈️Today: Partly to mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms mainly in the morning. Storms may contain strong gusty winds, with a high of 87°F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph. In the evening, isolated thunderstorms will occur, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. There's potential for severe thunderstorms, with a low of 71°F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.

⛈️Thursday: Variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms throughout the day. Storms may contain strong gusty winds, with a high of 84°F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph. The evening will continue with variable clouds and more numerous thunderstorms, some potentially severe, with a low of 68°F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.

🌧️Friday: Cloudy with occasional rain showers during the day, with a high of 84°F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph. The evening will be clear with a low of 66°F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 50%.

☀️Saturday: Mainly sunny with a high of 89°F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph. The evening will have clear skies with a low of 64°F. Winds light and variable.

Prepare for variable weather conditions with thunderstorms mid-week and clear skies towards the weekend. Stay updated on potential severe weather and keep an umbrella handy.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.59
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

🏠TRI-COUNTY OPPORTUNITIES COUNCIL

The Tri-County Opportunities Council offers several housing programs to assist homeless individuals and families. The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Rapid Rehousing Program helps people transition from homelessness to stable housing by providing rental assistance and ensuring rents are under Fair Market Rent. The DHS Rapid Rehousing Program offers similar support with added services to help participants maintain housing. The Homeless Prevention Program provides one-time rent, deposit, or mortgage assistance to prevent eviction, with eligibility based on income and financial crisis documentation.

Additionally, the Agency-Owned Rental Housing program offers affordable housing for households at or below 50% of the area median income, with properties available in Sterling, Rock Falls, Dixon, and Wyanet. The Emergency & Transitional Housing Program (Voucher Shelter) assists individuals unable to stay at a homeless shelter by offering emergency shelter through vouchers. To access these services, individuals must meet specific criteria, including being literally homeless or at risk of homelessness. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact an outreach worker at www.tcochelps.org.

🏷️LOCAL SALE

• A Farm and Business Tools Sale is scheduled for August 10, from 9 AM to Noon, at 23434 US Hwy 6. There will be a Bake Sale sponsored by Second Story Teen Center. Bakers are invited to bring baked goods wrapped and plated in 1/2 dozens.  They can be brought to the Johnson’s Carpet Store on Friday August 9 by closing time. This is an excellent opportunity for local businesses and farms to acquire tools essential for their operations. Make sure to arrive early to get the best selections!

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Shannon's Memorials offers assistance with your headstone needs, ensuring the remembrance process is both easy and fulfilling. Owner Shannon Smallwood works closely with clients to provide personalized and thoughtful memorials. To set up a meeting, call or text Shannon at 815-878-3682, or email [email protected]. You can also visit their Facebook page, Shannon's Memorials, for more information.

• Corner Chair Market has just finished crafting a charming small secretary with shelves, perfect for compact spaces. This piece features a fold-down writing surface and multiple shelves for ample storage. Visit the shop to see this delightful item and enjoy a cool, refreshing shopping experience.

• Dairy Queen invites everyone to stop by and try their Blizzard of the Month. This month features the delicious Reese's Pieces Blizzard, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Don't miss out on this delightful treat available for a limited time.

• Blue Jay Way Records has a vintage Yamaha YP-B4 turntable ready to go! This classic turntable is perfect for any vinyl enthusiast looking to add a touch of nostalgia to their music setup. Stop by the store and check out this beautiful piece of audio equipment.

• Four Seasons is offering 40% off Alfred Dunner items now through August 4th. Shop online at www.fourseasonsdirect.com/steals-deals for amazing savings on stylish apparel. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer!

• Connections Studio is hosting Open Registration for all students is scheduled for Friday, August 2, from 11 am to 1 pm, and Monday, August 5, 2024, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Be sure to save the dates and register for the upcoming fall schedule.

• Splash Tech Solutions launched a new website that is fluid responsive, PCI compliant, and easy to manage for the Kewanee Schools foundation. They can do one for you or company too.

• Kinetico Water Systems offers the K5 Drinking Water Station with VOC Guard, providing protection against volatile organic compounds such as gasoline, solvents, and pesticides. Ideal for areas affected by VOCs or PFAS, this system ensures clean and safe drinking water. Learn more about their advanced water filtration solutions by visiting Kinetico Water Systems.

• Golden Rice Authentic Thai Food has announced their schedule for this week, from July 30 to August 1, 2024. They will be open for lunch from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm and for dinner from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Enjoy their special mango and sticky rice dish during these hours.

• Mark your calendars for the Artisan Market at Hornbaker Gardens on September 14th from 10am to 4pm. Enjoy browsing through the works of over 40 artists featuring pottery, wood, photography, and more. Live music, local food, and hands-on art experiences await you.

• Once Upon A Craft is hosting a Bluey Back to School Paint Party on August 8th at 10:30am. This fun event is open to all ages and includes snacks, painting, and a story. Reserve your spot now or take home a paint kit to enjoy the fun at home!

• Jennifer's Superior Cleaning Service offers move-in, move-out, and deep cleaning services. They provide pressure washing, post-construction cleanup, window cleaning, and laundry services on a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly basis. Call or text 815-875-7860 to book your cleaning today!

• Downtown Liquidation is offering 32" x 64" Blackout Roman Kids' Shades in pink with stripes for $35 each. There are four shades available for purchase. Visit their store to pick up these stylish and functional window treatments for your child's room.

• Golden Rice Authentic Thai Food has announced their schedule for this week, running from July 30 to August 1. They will be open for lunch from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm and for dinner from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm.

• Optimal Health is expanding their grocery offerings with very competitive prices, joining a cooperative for independent natural retailers. Due to the expansion, they will be closing the café to utilize the space for more shelves and inventory. Watch for lots of sales in the next couple of weeks; the store will remain open during this transition.

• Johnsons Carpet Shoppe is having a fantastic sale! Stop in to pick up a variety of items, including books, home decor, and spring-themed gifts, all at discounted prices. The store is open from 9 AM to 5 PM, so don't miss out on these great deals.

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⚡️FROM THE BUREAU COUNTY EMA

The Bureau County EMA has introduced new severe thunderstorm risk categories, ranging from 0 to 5. Here's what each level means:

0 (No Label): No severe thunderstorms expected, though lightning and flooding threats exist with all thunderstorms.

1 (Marginal): Isolated severe thunderstorms possible, limited in duration and/or coverage and intensity.

2 (Slight): Scattered severe storms possible, short-lived and/or not widespread but potentially intense.

3 (Enhanced): Numerous severe storms possible, more persistent and/or widespread with a few intense storms.

4 (Moderate): Widespread severe storms likely, long-lived, widespread, and intense.

5 (High): Widespread severe storms expected, long-lived, very widespread, and particularly intense.

These categories help gauge the likelihood and severity of thunderstorms. Stay informed and prepared by checking updates from the National Weather Service.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

Royal Super Mart is celebrating its second first birthday tomorrow with special deals. Snack Packs are available for only $1 with any $20.24 purchase, and Meat Mania offers a 10% discount on purchases of five or more frozen meat items. The Birthday Bread sale includes a variety of bakery items like sourdough, baguettes, naan dippers, and danishes. Additionally, a new daily discount program will launch, offering 5% off for shoppers who meet the surprise criteria.

The 2025 Illinois State Jakes Spring Turkey Hunt, hosted by the National Wild Turkey Federation and the Illinois Conservation Foundation, will take place at the Torstenson Youth Conservation Education Center in Pecatonica, IL. The hunt is open to youth aged 15 or younger, and applications must be received by January 2, 2025. For more information and to apply, contact Deb and Todd Jacobs at 815-978-8253 or email [email protected].

Watch the Kiddo Olympics on Monday, August 5th from 10-11 am at Mason Memorial Library, located at 104 W Main St, Buda. Enjoy fun and refreshments at this event, which is put on by Birth to Five. The venue is handicapped accessible, ensuring everyone can participate in the excitement.

Manlius Fun Day

The Village of Manlius presents Manlius Fun Day on Saturday. Break out the red, white, and blue for a day packed with activities, starting with a softball tournament at 8 AM, a parade at 11 AM, and a Sportmen's Club Fish Fry and Lutheran Church Ice Cream Social at 11:30 AM. The afternoon features kids' inflatables, a bags tournament, a pedal pull, and live music by 3 Mile High at 8 PM, culminating in fireworks at dark.

Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days Schedule

Thursday, August 1 - Family Night

• 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Second Story Teen Center Soda, Water & Popcorn

• 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Family Carnival Games

• 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Touch the Truck – Local Fire and EMS Vehicles on Display plus Police K-9

• 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: DJ Chuck Hopper – Kids Dance

Friday, August 2

• 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Historical Society’s Museum on Main

• 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Historical Society’s Gallery on Galena

• 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Second Story Teen Center Soda, Water & Popcorn

• 6:00 PM - 12:30 AM: Tiskilwa Community Association Beer Garden

• 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM: TCA Kids Pedal Tractor Pull (Ages 4-12)

• 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Bouncy Houses ($10 armband)

• 7:00 PM: TCA Ice Cream Eating Contest (Kids and Adults)

• 7:30 PM: TCA Draw Down (Call 815.646.4121 for Tickets)

• 8:30 PM - 12:30 AM: Wild Card Band (Music in the Beer Garden)

Saturday, August 3

• 8:00 AM: 5K Race (East Park) Pre-register by July 15th at RUNSIGNUP.COM. Price increases on July 16th and a t-shirt is not guaranteed.

• 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Historical Society’s Museum on Main

• 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM: Historical Society’s Classic Rides Display (Museum Lawn)

• 10:30 AM: Parade on Main Street – “Memories From The Past”

• 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Tiskilwa Community Church Lunch (Community Church)

• 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM: Second Story Teen Center Soda, Water & Popcorn

• 11:00 AM - 12:30 AM: Bouncy Houses ($10 armband, $20 armband good for all day/evening)

• 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM: Tiskilwa Fire Dept. Kids Water Fights

• 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Historical Society’s Gallery on Galena

• 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Tiskilwa High School Alumni Banquet (Hundred Acre Orchard, Princeton) – Social Hour 5:00 PM, Dinner 6:00 PM, Program 7:00 PM. Tickets available at 212 Ale House, IVI, or Heartland Bank South.

• 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Bouncy Houses ($10 armband)

• 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Brushville (Music in the Beer Garden)

Sunday, August 4

• 10:30 AM: Community Outdoor Church Service (West Park Shelter)

All events are to be held at the West Park unless otherwise noted.

📈PRINCETON FACTS AND FIGURES FROM CENSUS.COM

Princeton is a vibrant township in Bureau County, home to a population of 9,223 residents. With a median age of 47.6 years, Princeton reflects a community rich in experience and wisdom, balanced by youthful energy. The median household income here stands at $59,612, showcasing a stable economic environment, while the poverty rate is at 13.3%, highlighting ongoing community challenges. Education is valued, with 29.6% of adults holding a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a strong foundation for intellectual growth and professional development.

Housing in Princeton is abundant, with 4,465 housing units accommodating its diverse population, which includes a significant proportion of German ancestry (27.9%). This cultural heritage is likely reflected in community events and local traditions. Princeton is also notable for its linguistic diversity, with 3.9% of households speaking a language other than English at home.

The township has a robust veteran community, comprising 7.9% of its population, underscoring a strong sense of service and patriotism. Despite the challenges, 54.4% employment rate reveals active participation in the workforce, contributing to the township's economic resilience. The older population, those 65 years and older, make up 27.3% of the community, emphasizing the need for services and activities that cater to senior residents. Disability rates are relatively high at 17.5%, indicating a need for accessible infrastructure and support services.

Princeton is a community characterized by a blend of cultural heritage, economic stability, and a commitment to education and service, making it a dynamic place to live and grow.

🌳THE BUREAU COUNTY METRO CENTER

The Bureau County Metro Center is a 50,000 square-foot recreation center with full size gymnasium; 25-yard indoor swimming pool with wading pool and observation balcony; racquetball courts; weight room; cardio-vascular room, elevated running/walking track above the gym; and locker rooms. A 40′ x 80′ multi-purpose room with adjacent kitchen provides the perfect setting for conventions, expositions, meetings, or wedding receptions.

The Metro Center has opened registration for the Adult Basketball League, with the deadline on August 12th. Games will be held on Thursdays, starting August 15th. Additionally, Flag Football registration is now open, with a deadline of August 23rd, and games will be played on Saturdays starting September 14th at Zearing Park.

• Adult Basketball League Registration

• Flag Football Registration

Adult Membership:

• Age: 18 - 59

• Fee: Resident $313.00 / Non-Resident $388.00

College Membership:

• Age: 18 and over

• Fee: Resident $208.00 / Non-Resident $288.00

Couple Membership:

• Age: 18 - 59

• Fee: Resident $414.00 / Non-Resident $494.00

Family Membership:

• Age: All Ages

• Fee: Resident $479.00 / Non-Resident $554.00

One Parent Family Membership:

• Age: All Ages

• Fee: Resident $414.00 / Non-Resident $494.00

Senior Membership:

• Age: 60 and over

• Fee: Resident $208.00 / Non-Resident $288.00

Senior Couple Membership:

• Age: 60 and over

• Fee: Resident $284.00 / Non-Resident $374.00

Youth Membership:

• Age: 7 - 18

• Fee: Resident $208.00 / Non-Resident $288.00

Get a membership here.

For more information, visit the Bureau County Metro Center or contact their office directly: 815-872-0840

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].