🏌️‍♀️Golf Champs, Mail-In Voting, and Cotton Candy

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Good Wednesday morning, neighbors. Especially to the ladies who won the Illinois Valley Net Team Golf Championship, representing Wyaton Hills. I am in awe of anyone who can keep their golf balls on the fairway, let alone win an entire golf championship. Way to go!

I’m a bad golfer. Let’s get to it.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅For Your To-Do List
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🍖Local Food We Liked
🐅Tiger Store Deadline
💊Princeton Job Opportunity
💼Princeton Businesses
📍Outside City Limits
⛺️Shadows of the Blue and Gray
🪔Antique Appraisal Program
🛣️Cotton Candy Worth the Journey

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• According to Illinois Family Destinations, Princeton is “the most relaxed, stress-free spot ever.” 🤷

• Main Street will be closed to all vehicle traffic and parking from August 12th through August 16th, between Peru Street and Park Avenue, to allow for street resurfacing. Delivery services needing access to buildings in this area should be directed to use the rear entrances, though storefronts will remain accessible to pedestrians. Advanced Asphalt will oversee the project, which involves completely resurfacing the entire stretch of Main Street in the downtown area.

  • Wednesday: Placement of the second asphalt layer.

  • Thursday: Painting of parking spots and crosswalks.

• WQAD: A Tiskilwa couple has died after a single-vehicle crash in Peru, Illinois on Sunday, Aug. 11.

• Mail-in ballot registration open in Illinois

• The Evangelical Covenant Church will be hosting a FREE family-friendly movie, "Facing the Giants," in the church parking lot at 24 N. Main St. on Saturday, September 7th, at 7:30 p.m. as part of the annual Bureau County Homestead Festival. Grab a friend and a lawn chair or blanket, and enjoy free popcorn and free root beer floats while watching the heartwarming story of a downtrodden Christian high school football coach who turns to God when everything seems to be going against him.

• Do you have a positive story you’d like to share about someone or something within the community? I’d love to hear about it and pass it along. Email your story here: [email protected].

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✅FOR YOUR TO-DO LIST

🎵Today at 10:30 AM, Miss Jennifer will be hosting a music session for kids, organized by Early Beginnings Parents As Teachers at 605 S. Pleasant. This fun and interactive event will include singing and dancing, perfect for young children to enjoy. It's a great chance for kids to engage with music in a lively environment.

🥨Today, Didough’s Twisted Pretzel Co. will be at Barrel Society from 3-7 pm, with Whiskey Talks starting at 7 pm. Thursday features a live bluegrass performance by Pretend Friend from Wichita, KS, starting at 6:30 pm, with an $8 cover charge.

🎸Join the Princeton Public Library today at 5:30 PM for a community Music Jam. This event invites participants to bring their instruments, voices, or enthusiasm to enjoy an evening of music and connection. It's a great opportunity for local musicians and music lovers to gather and share their talents.

🥗Today at 6 PM, the Bureau County Farm Bureau is hosting a class on preparing quick and healthy meals for busy lifestyles. Led by Illinois Extension Nutrition and Wellness Educator Susan Glassman, this event will offer practical tips for meals on-the-go, perfect for those heading back to school or working in the fields. The class also emphasizes using locally sourced foods.

🎤Every Thursday in August, from 9 PM to 11 PM, the Downtown Pub & Event Center is hosting an Open Mic Night. This event is open to the public and provides a platform for local talent to showcase their skills. Whether you're a performer or just want to enjoy some live music, this is the place to be.

🩺This Friday, from 6 AM to 9 AM, the Bureau County Farm Bureau is offering preventive health screenings. Participants can schedule appointments for various tests, including a blood draw with wellness panels, at a reduced cost. This event is a great opportunity to stay on top of your health in a convenient and affordable way.

🧯Join the Princeton Professional Firefighters Local 4308 for their Second Annual Golf Outing this Friday at 9 AM. The event will be held at Wyaton Hills Golf Course and will feature a firearm raffle, 50/50 drawing, silent auction, and games. It’s a day of fun activities, all in support of local firefighters and their community efforts.

🍦This Saturday from 4 PM to 8 PM, Chelsea Gives Back is hosting an ice cream fundraiser at Sisler's Ice Cream. For every scoop, $1 will be donated to the 4th Annual Chelsea Gives Back Secret Santa Givings Days. The event is public and open to everyone. Come and enjoy some delicious ice cream while supporting a good cause.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

⛅️Today: The day will begin with partly cloudy skies that will transition to more cloudy conditions by the afternoon. The high will be around 82°F, with SE winds at 5 to 10 mph. As night falls, expect mostly cloudy skies, with thunderstorms developing late into the night. The low will be 66°F, with winds picking up slightly to 10 to 15 mph from the SE. There is a 100% chance of rain, with locally heavy rainfall possible, so be prepared for wet weather.

⛈️Thursday: Thunderstorms are likely throughout the day, with a high near 81°F. Winds will come from the south at 10 to 15 mph. There's a 90% chance of rain, and some storms could be severe. The night will bring more thunderstorms, with variable cloudiness later and a continued chance of showers. The low will be around 65°F, with SW winds at 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain remains high at 80%.

⛅️Friday: Expect a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a possibility of a stray shower or thunderstorm. The high will reach 82°F, with stronger winds from the west at 10 to 20 mph. Overnight, the skies will be partly cloudy, with a low of 62°F, and winds remaining from the west at 10 to 15 mph.

⛅️Saturday: The weather will be partly cloudy, with a high near 79°F. Winds will be from the NW at 10 to 15 mph, providing a slight breeze throughout the day. By night, skies will clear up, leading to a mostly clear night with a low of around 60°F. Winds will calm down slightly to 5 to 10 mph from the NW.

⛽️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

🍖LOCAL FOOD WE LIKED

The Shed Tap N Grill

Audrey Bullington: Reviewing a restaurant isn’t something I’ve ever done, but I was just so impressed with my lunch on Sunday at The Shed Tap N Grill in Walnut, that I wanted to share this with all of you.

I ordered the Hot Beef Sandwich, one of the best in the area. It is on Texas toast, with a thick slice of real roast beef, topped with real mashed potatoes, gravy, and onion crisps. It was very generous, so I took half of it home for later.

The restaurant is located on Main St. in Walnut, IL. It has a real nice vibe with inside and outside seating. The menu is very accommodating with something for everyone. I encourage you to give it a try!

Carson Bullington: I had the Smoked Pork Chop. It was amazing. The eggs were cooked to perfection. The pork chops and eggs were one of the best meals I’ve ever had.

Justin Bullington: We all celebrated Dad’s 74th birthday on Sunday, and I chose The Shed on a bit of a whim. I had seen some of their posts on Facebook and was intrigued enough to give it a try. With my kids being quite picky eaters, we usually anticipate taking a bunch of food home, or I end up playing the role of the resident vacuum, finishing what they decide not to like that particular hour of the day.

But, much to my surprise, everything was a hit. I thoroughly enjoyed their breakfast sandwich and potatoes—it was the perfect comfort food. Carson was delighted with their smoked pork chop, which had a rich, smoky flavor that really impressed him. Mia and Hudson devoured their pancakes, which were fluffy and golden, just how they like them. Deb was pleasantly surprised by the freshness and flavor of her Mandarin salad, and John couldn’t get enough of the crispy, golden fries. Everything came out hot and fast.

Check out their website here.

Want to invite my family to review your food? We like food. And we’ll give you some free publicity: [email protected].

🐅TIGER STORE DEADLINE: AUGUST 14TH

The Princeton Tigers Athletic Booster Club is highlighting several new items available in their store, including glitter options under the embroidered section, which look great in person. This store is the exclusive place to purchase sport-specific merchandise for the Tigers, and all proceeds support the school's athletic programs by funding new equipment, uniforms, and other necessary gear. Both online stores and the booster shed contribute to these efforts, with a focus on giving back to the community.

In addition to the traditional items, the store now offers customizable apparel, including packable jackets, vests, joggers, pajama pants, and more, all featuring the school logo. Other new accessories include crossbody bags, laptop totes, backpacks, duffles, blankets, stadium seats, car decals, yard signs, and wearable blankets. The deadline to place an order is this evening at 11:59pm. Customers are encouraged to browse and explore the booster store's offerings, as each purchase directly supports the athletic programs. Pictures of the available items can be found in the comments section of the post.

🏈PHS Football Schedule:

• 8/30 vs Newman Central Catholic, Time: 7:00pm

• 9/6 @ Rockridge, Time: 7:00pm

• 9/13 vs Sherrard, Time: 7:00pm

• 9/20 @ Kewanee, Time: 7:00pm

• 9/27 @ Monmouth-Roseville, Time: 7:00pm

• 10/4 vs Hall, Time: 7:00pm*

• 10/11 @ Mendota, Time: 7:00pm

• 10/18 vs Mercer County, Time: 7:00pm

• 10/25 @ Erie-Prophetstown, Time: 7:00pm

*Homecoming

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💊PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITY

There are two job openings available at the Princeton Pharmacy at 610 N. Main.

• The first position is for a full-time Pharmacy Technician, responsible for assisting in filling prescriptions. This role requires good computer skills and attention to detail, with previous experience preferred but not necessary. The job schedule is Monday through Friday, with occasional Saturday shifts.

• The second position is for a part-time Pharmacy Clerk, responsible for various duties in a busy pharmacy, including managing the register, cleaning, and making deliveries. This role requires approximately 12-15 hours of work per week, with shifts mainly in the afternoons and on Saturdays. Applicants for this position must be at least 16 years old.

Contact Princeton Pharmacy for more information: 815-875-1237

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Teachers can enjoy a 20% discount on all Shine Shop packages, including window tinting, exterior and interior detailing, ceramic coatings, and more, until September 1st.

• Dashel Pet Sitting is now accepting new clients in the Princeton/Tiskilwa area. Owner Lori Hunter-Lewis offers caring and reliable pet sitting services, including multiple daily visits tailored to your pet's needs, with references available upon request. Customers highly praise Lori's professional and compassionate care for both young and senior pets, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners while they are away.

• A newly finished round oak table, painted in a color called "cracked pepper," is now available at Corner Chair Market. The table comes with a wide leaf, and matching chairs painted in the same color are being planned.

• Bug Off Taylor's Way offers expert pest control solutions for both residential and commercial properties. They provide customized pest management programs tailored to your specific needs, ensuring effective and reliable services.

• It's back-to-school time, and Optimal Health has everything you need to keep your immune system strong. Stop by today to start the school year off right with their selection of health products.

• Join a Taylor Swift-inspired painting party on August 21st at 6 PM, where fans can enjoy music, dinner, and creativity. The event, hosted at the Downtown Pub, includes a pre-drawn canvas, materials, and a cash bar. Tickets are $25, and all ages are welcome, with younger participants needing an adult to assist.

• Little Blue Dress is excited to showcase a golden velvet sequin shift dress, perfect for easy and stylish wear with no need for accessories. Customers can shop this look in-store or online through their website. The dress is a stunning addition for those looking to add a bit of sparkle to their wardrobe.

• The Studio - Boutique features a chic woven clutch that’s ideal for any formal occasion. The boutique invites customers to stop by on Monday from 9 AM to 7 PM or browse their collection online.

• Tailholt Trading Post has recently added some beautiful new furniture pieces, including a wood table with an elegant leather top. They welcome visitors to drop by and explore these unique additions.

• Rachel Rene is continuing their Summer Sale with a 30% discount on select items, such as lotions and artisanal soaps. Shoppers can enjoy this offer in-store or order online, with the option to pick up later or have items shipped. Rachel Rene is also highlighting their Summer Sale, offering a 30% discount on a variety of bath and body products. These summer-themed scents are available while supplies last.

• Don't miss the showing of "Harold and the Purple Crayon" this Friday at the Apollo Theater.

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📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Nestled in Wyanet, the historic home at 310 W Main St celebrates its 100th year with a rich legacy and modern updates. This 5-bedroom, 3-bath residence spreads over 2,800 sq ft, boasting original hardwood floors and a charming wood-burning fireplace that enhances the cozy family room. Recent upgrades include new plumbing, a new sewer line, and renovated roofing, ensuring modern comforts blend seamlessly with timeless architecture. Set on 1.42 acres, this home offers ample outdoor space, a detached garage, and is a testament to a century of care and love.

• The final Friday Night Market at the Spring Valley Mini-Park at 111 E. St. Paul on August 16th, will feature live music from Josiah Simon and She's a Maybe. The event will include a wide variety of food vendors, a balloon artist, an ax-throwing attraction, and over 40 artisan vendors offering products from local produce to home decor. The evening will conclude with a fireworks finale at 5:00 PM.

• On Monday August 26th, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., you can support the Bureau Valley After Prom by dining at Culver's of Princeton. A portion of the sales during this time will be donated to help fund the after-prom event.

• Kids Klub, a non-denominational Christian children's ministry with over 70 years of experience, is starting a new year in September. An informational meeting will be held on August 20th at 5:00 P.M. at the First Congregational Church of Bureau, with a light dinner served at 6:00 P.M. For more details, contact the Kids Klub House in Malden at 815-643-2307; Jeremy Listenby is the director.

🪔ANTIQUE APPRAISAL PROGRAM

Join the community on Saturday, August 17th, for the antique appraisal program “Listen to your Heirlooms,” sponsored by the Bureau County History Center and the Princeton Public Library.

This event offers free antique appraisals and a program. The Princeton Public Library and the Bureau County History Center are collaborating to provide the public with information about their personal treasures.

Appraisals are limited to one per person (one per family) and are capped at twenty appraisals total for the day. RSVP is required to have an item appraised. To reserve an appraisal slot and complete the necessary paperwork, call 815-875-1331 or visit the circulation desk at the library. Drop-offs for appraisals will take place on Saturday, August 17th, at 10 AM. Items that will NOT be appraised include stamps, coins, fine jewelry, gemstones, firearms, weapons, furs, or taxidermy.

The program following the appraisals will begin at 1 PM and will feature some items from the presenter, Carolyn Law. This program is free, and all are welcome to attend.

🛣️COTTON CANDY WORTH THE JOURNEY

Xan Dandy Cotton Candy Co. began its sweet journey in May of this year, founded by Amanda Coomer, a lifelong resident of Princeton with a deep love for creating treats that bring joy to others. Amanda previously operated Buttercream Bake Shop, where she sold cupcakes and cookies at the local farmer’s market. However, in 2018, she closed the bakery to care for her son, who was born with special needs. Despite stepping away from the food business, Amanda's passion for it never waned. "For the past two or three years, I’ve told my husband I wanted to own a cotton candy cart," Amanda recalls. Earlier this year, she turned that dream into reality, purchasing her first cotton candy machine and diving into the world of spinning sugar.

Launching Xan Dandy Cotton Candy Co. has been a journey filled with trial and error, especially when it came to finding the right balance between quality and affordability. Initially, Amanda wanted to use all-natural flavors and dyes, but she found that these options didn’t spin well and were cost-prohibitive. "I want my products to be affordable, and I always ask myself if I would pay my own asking price," she explains. Not one to give up easily, she returned to the drawing board, experimenting with various flavors until she found a selection that met her high standards. Today, Amanda offers around 20 different flavors, from traditional ones that evoke nostalgia to unique options that surprise and delight her customers. Packaging was another challenge, especially with the hot summer weather, but she discovered that sealed deli containers kept the cotton candy fresh and fluffy.

One of Amanda’s most memorable early experiences with her new business was learning how to operate her cotton candy machine. "The first time I used my machine, I had no idea what I was doing and ended up covered in cotton candy from head to toe," she laughs. Her hair, glasses, and clothes were all coated in the sticky sweetness as she figured out the machine needed some adjustments. This initial mishap didn’t deter her, though—it was just part of the learning curve. Amanda quickly made the necessary tweaks, and since then, the process has become much smoother, with minimal mess and maximum flavor.

Amanda's deep connection to Princeton is reflected in the way she runs her business. She treasures the warm reception she’s received from the community and loves that her customers quickly become friends. "Princeton has always been good to me, welcoming me with open arms," Amanda shares. Her presence at local events, like Princeton’s fireworks display, has helped Xan Dandy Cotton Candy Co. gain visibility, and she looks forward to participating in more upcoming events, such as Witches Night Out. For Amanda, operating Xan Dandy is more than just a business; it’s a way to bring a little extra sweetness into the lives of those around her.

Despite the challenges of starting a new venture, Amanda Coomer has already seen success with Xan Dandy Cotton Candy Co. Her commitment to quality and friendly service has earned her rave reviews from customers, who praise the freshness and unique flavors of her cotton candy. "My proudest moments are when people love my cotton candy," Amanda says. She fondly recalls a customer who drove her cotton candy across several states to share with family, a testament to the special experience she offers. As Xan Dandy continues to grow, Amanda remains focused on keeping her products affordable, enjoyable, and a memorable part of Princeton’s celebrations.

Click here to view Xan Dandy Cotton Candy’s Facebook.

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].