🅿️Graduates, Going to State, and City Announcements

SPONSORED BY

Good morning, Princeton. Especially JT Bullington, Natalie Richey, Beth Freeman, Evan Driscoll, Caitlin Meyer, Micah Harris, Ray Terando, and the entire graduating class of 2024.

Andy Samberg: “You are graduating. That means this is the first day of the last day of your life. No, that’s wrong. This is the last day of the first day of school. Nope, that’s worse. This is a day.”

Let’s get started.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅Places to Go Today
🌥️Princeton Weather
⚽️Princeton Person of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
🔗Top Links This Week
📢City Announcements
👕Princeton Garage Sales
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Openings
🏡Princeton Homes for Sale
🏀Letter from Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• BCR: “Princeton throwers Payne Miller, Cade Odell and Ian Morris qualified for the boys state track and field meet.” Great job!

• Congratulations PHS’ Camryn Driscoll, who advanced to today’s IHSA State Finals in the 400m! Congratulations as well to Morgan Foes, who advanced in the shot put and discus! Also, great job PHS Tennis players Tyson Phillips and Chase Sims on qualifying for the state tennis tournament.

• Farm Week Now: “Pulling onto the gravel road leading to Evan Hultine’s home, a rock engraved with ‘Hultine Farms’ sits to the right.”

• The Bureau County Housing Authority will receive $745,480 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Capital Fund Program. This funding will be used to build, renovate, and modernize public housing in Bureau County.

• The Bureau County Senior Citizen Association is participating in the John Deere Classic Birdies for Charity event this year. Supporters who donate will ensure the association receives 100% of the proceeds. An additional bonus will be provided from the Birdies for Charity Fund. Participants are reminded to use the association's legal name on all paperwork, and their birdie number is 662. For those needing a copy of the flyer or more information, visiting the Senior Center in person is encouraged.

• Princeton NOW Premium subscribers now receive:

  🔍Health Department Food Inspections

  💍Marriages

  🏛️Board and City Council Meeting Summaries

  ❤️Local Obituaries

  🚔Arrests

  🏡Property Transfers

  🚫Ad free

  ⏫Upgrade your newsletter today and join 139 others.

✅PLACES TO GO TODAY

• Princeton High School celebrates its graduation ceremony today at 10am, marking a significant milestone for the graduating class of 2024.

• Paint birdhouses at the Boek-el-ZOO from 12 PM to 3 PM at 419 S Main Street in Princeton. They invite attendees to not only craft a haven for birds but also small domestic animals. With only 12 boxes available, early arrival is suggested to ensure participation. Additionally, children under ten can enjoy free ice cream, making it a delightful family outing.

• Excitement is building at Barrel Society as Sheafar and Simes are set to return for a live performance this evening at 7 PM.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: Expect plentiful sunshine throughout the day, bringing warmth and clear skies. Temperatures will peak at a comfortable 86°F, accompanied by light south-southwest winds at 5 to 10 mph. As the evening approaches, the skies will remain mostly clear with a few passing clouds. The temperature will drop to a cooler 64°F, with southwest winds continuing at a gentle pace.

Sunday: The day will feature a mix of sunshine and clouds, providing a warm and pleasant atmosphere with a high near 88°F. Winds from the east-southeast will blow at a light to moderate pace of 5 to 10 mph. By evening, there is a chance for isolated thunderstorms which may increase cloud cover, with a low around 66°F and a 30% chance of rain.

Monday: Monday morning will start cloudy, with scattered thunderstorms developing later in the day as temperatures reach up to 83°F. Expect south-southwest winds at 10 to 20 mph. The chance of rain is about 50%. Evening conditions will vary, featuring both clear spells and potential thunderstorms. Nighttime temperatures will dip to 64°F, with south winds at 5 to 10 mph and a continued 60% chance of rain.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.71
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.64
Casey’s West/North: $3.69
Beck’s West/North: $3.72
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.72
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.72

Diesel

Beck’s West/North: $3.95
Road Ranger, N Main St.: $3.81
Casey’s West/North: $3.75
Amoco, N Main St: $3.99
Sullivan’s: $3.95

⚽️PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

🏅Jeremy Whitfield

Reason for Nomination: “Jeremy does an amazing job with Princeton Youth Soccer League. It's a huge amount of work and he's always smiling, encouraging, and juggling many things to keep it running smoothly for everyone else. He treats all the kids like MVP’s!”

1,000x yes! Congratulations, Jeremy! You’ve won the illustrious Princeton Person of the Week.

Okay, everyone. It’s time for you to nominate someone for next week’s Princeton Person of the Week here.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Myrtle's Pies is offering discounted pies early this morning from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., after which they will close for the day to celebrate a family graduation. They encourage everyone to enjoy their weekend and take advantage of the brief sale window to get their pie favorites.

• Johnson Carpet Shoppe has a large amount of Mohawk Carpet on sale right now. The sale runs till June 30th. Come check out some of their favorites and don’t miss out all they have to offer.

• Join Gateway Services for their 5th Annual Online Silent Auction starting June 2nd at 12 PM and ending June 9th at 9 PM. Explore and bid on a variety of items donated by local businesses and community members. Engage with our community and support a great cause while securing unique items from the comfort of your home.

• Rebekah Lynn is expanding her teaching schedule to accommodate more piano students, as her ability to teach has grown with her son getting older. She is now offering three new lesson times and encourages interested parties to contact her for details or to arrange a session. Call 207-745-3123.

• Simply Nutrition on South Main is thrilled to announce their opening week starting Monday, May 20th. They will operate from 6:30 AM to 12 PM for the initial soft opening phase, extending their hours till 3 PM for the summer. The highlight of the opening celebrations will be a Shake Party on Saturday, May 25th, from 2 PM to 5 PM. They are eager to welcome back their patrons to enjoy their favorite shakes and caffeine fixes. One of the star attractions is their s'mores shake, a crowd favorite at Simply Nutrition.

• Don’t forget: Through the month of May, Fiocchi-Jensen Funeral Home will be deducting the sales tax for any grave markers purchased.

• Cathcart Photography, by the movie theater, now offers high-resolution film scanning for 35mm slides and prints, complete with color correction and scratch removal. This service allows customers to preserve, digitize, and share their old images conveniently without having to send them offsite.

• The Apollo Theater is set to entertain with a variety of movie screenings this week. "IF" will be shown today at 4:15 PM and 7:15 PM, and on Sunday at 1:15 PM, with additional screenings on Wednesday. "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" also graces the screen today at 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, and on Sunday at 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM. For a special treat, "The Garfield Movie" will host an End of School Extravaganza on May 23rd at 6:00 PM, complete with face painting, gifts, and other surprises.

• If you're worried about the quality of your water, Lee's Water Systems has you covered as an authorized dealer of Kinetico Water Systems, renowned for their efficiency and reliability. They're currently offering a free water test to help you determine the best Kinetico drinking water system for your needs. Embrace the opportunity to enhance your water consumption experience—visit their website here.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is offering a fantastic deal on Super Soft Sherpa blankets with a 50% discount today. The sale includes various sizes and selections, perfect for getting cozy this fall. Visit the store from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, the store is looking for volunteers, so inquire at the counter about how to get involved. All proceeds benefit the Friends of Strays Animal Shelter.

• On The Homestead CrossFit is offering a special summer package for students during their school break. For $100, students can join and attend classes from May 26th to August 26th, ensuring they have a consistent fitness routine throughout the summer.

• Splash Tech Solutions is now offering Mini-Website Audits. Regularly priced at $97, you can avail of this service for just $47 throughout May. You'll receive a report with three actionable recommendations to enhance your website.

• Wild Ginger Bistro and Wine Bar is now taking dinner reservations starting from May 23rd. If you have a reservation or plan to make one for a party larger than six, contact them directly at [email protected] to ensure your spot is secured. They are also promoting their WGB Lunch Boxes ideal for various group events and emphasizes the convenience and quality over fast food. Each lunch box contains a main dish, a side, a cookie or brownie, and a beverage, with options for delivery or pick-up and an extra charge for premium beverages.

• Steve Becker at Thrivent provides personalized financial services in the Princeton area, offering strategies in retirement planning, life insurance, and annuities. His approach not only aids in achieving personal financial goals but also fosters community contribution through various philanthropic programs.

• Grandma Rosie's Sweet Treats is excited to announce their new Espresso Milkshake. Enjoy freshly pulled espresso shots blended into their creamy soft serve ice cream, available in chocolate or vanilla flavors, served in 16oz sizes.

• The Princeton Closet is advertising a shoe sale with prices starting at $3 per pair and is also highlighting their Memorial Day decoration items. They appreciate their donors and offer a variety of furniture, spring decor, and summer clothing.

• Jennifer's Superior Cleaning Service is offering comprehensive paint job services. Potential clients are encouraged to call 815-875-7860 for more information, starting and finishing their projects with their service.

• True Leaves Bookshop has announced their move from the Arts District to a new location at 15 Park Ave West, previously the Matson Public Library. They are planning a soft opening as early as June 1, with a grand re-opening scheduled for June 29, and their online shop remains open for regular and special orders, offering a 10% discount and delivery within a 10-mile radius.

🔗TOP LINKS THIS WEEK

• Discover the comfort and charm of this newly-listed, fully renovated home at 608 N Church St, priced at $234,900. It features brand new kitchen appliances, a spa-like bathroom, refinished hardwood floors, and includes a screened porch for relaxing. Perfect for those who value a beautiful interior with modern amenities and a touch of outdoor serenity.

• CRAZY: Princeton Junior, Noah LaPorte, was in Sports Illustrated yesterday morning: “When Spartan Nation spoke to 2025 Michigan State target Noah LaPorte, a tight end from Princeton, Illinois, the recruit discussed the workout he had with tight ends coach Brian Wozniak. LaPorte ran routes for Wozniak, went through the motions of blocking.”

• Lost Dog Alert: A female dog was discovered wandering near Logan Jr High School at about 8:30 AM on May 10. This well-cared-for pup is believed to belong to someone who might not know where to find her. Residents near the Logan Jr High area are encouraged to spread the word and help locate her owners. If you have any information, please call 815-875-1150 to ensure she returns home safely.

📢CITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

• City of Princeton: ”We are currently out of both sizes of recycling totes and have some on order. If you are wanting to recycle and have not contacted us please make sure to call City Hall at 815-875-2631 Option 2 to be added to the list.”

• Recycling and Garbage Information:
  
  Recycling:

  Recycling will resume the week of May 20th with pick up being the same day as your trash service. Recycling will be every other week thereafter. Please make sure garbage and recycle totes are out by 5:00 AM for pick up. The 2024 Recycle schedule is attached along with a reminder as to what is accepted for recycling.

  Garbage/Stickered Items:

  Going forward, ALL garbage stickered items will be picked up on Fridays. If you have stickered items that need to be picked up we ask that you please call City Hall at 815-875-2631 Option 2 to be added to the Friday pick up.
  

  Old Garbage Cans:

  We have been asked by several residents as what they are to do with their old garbage cans. The week of May 20th we will have a drop off location for old garbage cans across the street from the Street Compounds at 1105 N Euclid. The area will be marked as to where they shall be placed.

• The City has also just launched a new app. Check it out and Explore Princeton.

👕GARAGE SALES

• Today, visit the expansive garage sale at 646 Prairie Lane West from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Discover a variety of items, including new and used adult clothing, crafts, and home goods, perfect for everyone's tastes and needs.

• A large, multi-family garage sale will take place today at 460 E Peru St. The sale includes clothing, games, household goods, and much more. It is updated regularly with new items. The time is not stated, so head on over there and check it out for yourself.

• Join the Murray family at their massive garage today at 420 N Main St. The sale, starting at 8 AM, will feature a treasure trove of items including home decor, baby gear, and clothing for all sizes.

• Check out the large garage sale happening at 2327 South Main Street today from 8-12pm. The sale offers a wide range of items including electronics, kitchen gadgets, clothing, and outdoor equipment. It's a cash-only event, so come prepared to discover some great deals.

• There will be a large multi-family garage sale at 203 Park Ave East on Memorial Day weekend. The sale will run from May 24th to May 26th, with hours from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, and from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM on Sunday. Items for sale include holiday decor, home goods, collectibles, clothing, and many useful things.

• Another large multi-family sale is set to take place at 240 South State Street in Tiskilwa, offering a wide array of items including adult and children's clothing, games, household goods, a Blackstone grill, and dressers. The event will run from Wednesday, May 22 through Saturday, May 25, with varying hours each day to give everyone a chance to find something special.

• More in Bureau County is hosting a county-wide garage sale event on Father's Day weekend, June 14 and 15. This year, the event extends beyond its traditional Route 34 location, inviting the entire community to participate. Residents who wish to have their garage sales listed or who seek more information about participating venues can contact [email protected]. Sale details will be included in a printed directory available to all shoppers during the event.

Announce your garage sale: [email protected] 

👷PRINCETON JOB OPENINGS

• Servers/Phone Person/Pizza Maker/Oven Person | Paisano’s Ristorante | Contact

• Cosmetologist | Sophisticuts Salon | Full, Part Time

• Kitchen Staff | Spoons and Forks | Contact

• Patient Access Associate | OSF Healthcare | Full-time

• Food and Grocery | Walmart | Full, part-time

• Utility Billing Clerk | City of Princeton | Full-time

• CDL A Driver | Ace Hardware Corp. | Full-time

• General Laborer | Ag View FS | Full, part-time

• Shift Manager | Pizza Hut | Full-time

• Parts Specialist | O’Reilly Auto Parts | Full-time

• Barista | Scooters Coffee | Part-time

• Shift Manager | McDonald’s | Full-time

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

🤝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 HOMES FOR SALE

• This four-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home at 801 W Boyd Avenue offers substantial living space and comfort. Built in 1975, this property spans 2,336 square feet on a quarter-acre lot, featuring large living areas, a formal dining room, and a spacious eat-in kitchen. Additional conveniences include a master en-suite bathroom, second-floor laundry, and a two-car garage. Outdoors, the home boasts well-maintained landscaping and mature trees, creating a serene and private backyard retreat. Priced at $86 per square foot, this home represents an opportunity to own a sizable and well-kept residence in a quiet neighborhood.

• The property at 608 N Church offers a charming and cozy space with two bedrooms and one bathroom. This home features a newly updated kitchen and a spacious backyard, making it ideal for someone looking to move right in without needing immediate renovations. Priced at $234,900, it presents a great opportunity for potential buyers seeking a compact yet comfortable living arrangement in a peaceful neighborhood.

• This charming residence at 520 W Crown St is listed for sale at $100,000. It offers three bedrooms and one bathroom within its 1,180 square feet of living space. Key features include a freshly painted large living room, an updated kitchen with eating area, and a unique three-season room equipped with its own gas heater. Additional highlights include two bedrooms on the main level, a third bedroom and potential fourth bedroom or playroom upstairs, and practical amenities such as a new boiler, concrete driveway, and a utility room off the garage. The property boasts a sizable yard complete with a shed, making it a great option for a variety of needs.

🏀LETTER FROM LORI

Participating in sports as a young person can be both beneficial and challenging. Many of us have experienced the anxiety of not being chosen for a team. As the number of players dwindles and teams are formed, some are left standing on the sidelines, perceived as lacking skill and having nothing to contribute. Once in the game, these players are often ignored; their teammates don't pass them the ball, leaving them to chase butterflies and pick dandelions in the outfield. They can daydream and enjoy the sunshine without fear of parental reprimands from the stands.

The star players, on the other hand, face physical aggression and harsh criticism. They are constantly under scrutiny, with everyone from spectators to newspapers judging their performance and offering unsolicited advice. Meanwhile, those who rarely play don't have to wash their jerseys often, as they don't slide into home or get dirty from playing. They might strike out at the plate, but they don't exhaust themselves running bases.

However, these players also miss out on the glory. Their names never appear in the newspapers, and although they are included in the team photo, they are generally overlooked. While they get to wear the team jersey and warm the bench, no scholarships are awarded to those who don't actively participate. They miss out on the pride of hitting a home run and hearing the crowd chant their name.

Trying harder might not have been easier, but it could have brought more rewards. Yet, not everyone aspires to be in the spotlight or to be held to a higher standard. Some prefer an easier path with less responsibility and less risk of ridicule, but this also means fewer rewards at season's end.

Every team member must make a choice. The team needs everyone, even the stars need support in case something goes wrong. Those who choose to simply be part of the team without striving for greatness take on less responsibility and risk, but also gain fewer rewards.

Success requires taking risks, making commitments, and being willing to fail and be judged. When I find my path challenging, I remind myself that I chose to expose myself to these difficulties because I pose a threat to others, and they try to prevent me from succeeding and scoring. If I weren't seen as a threat, I could lie back in the outfield, enjoying the birds and sunshine. However, I choose to compete, and though I end up with dirt on my knees and band-aids on my elbows, I also go home with a trophy.

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