⚡️Heat Lightning, Local Orchards, and The Bike Place

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Good morning, my Princeton people. Have you ever seen heat lightning? It’s like regular lightning, but without all that noisy thunder that always seems to be yelling at you. It’s as if the sky is saying, “I could make a big fuss, but why bother?” Heat lightning is the visible flash of lightning from a distant thunderstorm, too far away for the sound of thunder to be heard, typically occurring more than 10 miles from the observer. That’s pretty neat.

Maybe we could commemorate heat lightning every time we see it, like give out candy to children, exchange gifts with our neighbors, or dump a bucket of ice on our nearest uncle. If you have a better idea, let me know.

Alright, that’ll do. Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🐅Princeton Tigers Football Season
🌤️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
🌎Give Geocaching a Try
🚲From the Bike Place
🏠Princeton Properties for Sale
🎉Homestead Festival Schedule
🎸Local Music
🗓️Princeton Upcoming Events
🍁Local Orchards
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Joel Drozda and Kevin Glover! 🎈

• An International Soccer Program is offering a free soccer clinic for boys and girls in Princeton on Thursday, August 8, and Friday, August 9, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at Jefferson Elementary School. The clinic is open to children born between 2007 and 2018, with no registration required.

• If you don't want a digital Illinois driver's license or digital ID you don't have to have one, and no one will force you to get one...at least for now. You don't have to decide right this minute, HB 4592 doesn't take effect until January 1st of 2025.

• The Princeton Police Department, in partnership with the Princeton Park District, will host the National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 6th, from 5 PM to 8 PM at Zearing Park. The event features activities such as a K-9 demonstration, drone demonstrations, face painting, and tours of emergency vehicles, along with free food for attendees. It aims to foster community spirit and promote public safety, offering a chance for residents to engage with local safety personnel and community partners.

• Bureau County Fairgrounds: Concert tickets will be mailed until August 12th. Beginning August 13th all concert tickets ordered will be placed at Will Call and can be picked up day of the show - or during normal office hours.

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🐅PRINCETON TIGERS FOOTBALL SEASON

• 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

• 10/11 vs Mendota, Time: 7:00pm

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

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

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

⛈️Today: Isolated thunderstorms are expected in the morning, transitioning to partly cloudy skies later in the day. The high will be near 90°F with WSW winds at 5 to 10 mph. Monday night will be partly cloudy with a low of 71°F, and winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain is 40%.

🌥️Tuesday: Partly cloudy skies during the morning will turn overcast in the afternoon. The high will reach 78°F with winds from the NNE at 10 to 20 mph. The evening will remain partly cloudy with a low of 59°F, and winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph.

🌥️Wednesday: Expect partly cloudy skies with a high of 79°F. Winds will be ENE at 10 to 15 mph. The night will bring a few clouds and a low of 58°F, with winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph.

🤧5-Day Allergy Forecast for Princeton, IL

Monday: The pollen count slightly increases to 8.6, remaining in the medium-high range. Allergies could be noticeable for those affected.

Tuesday: The pollen count peaks at 9.9, reaching the high category. Allergy sufferers should take precautions, as symptoms could be more intense.

Wednesday: Pollen levels decrease slightly to 8.7, still within the medium-high range. Allergies may persist.

⛽️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: $3.66
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.69

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Tossed & Found Resale + Consignment has new arrivals, including a charming "Harry Potter" themed children's shirt, a brand new Carhartt tan baseball cap, and a variety of other unique items like white high-top sneakers and polka-dotted lamps. Stop by the shop at 225 Backbone Road E #5, behind the DMV and Sullivans, to discover these and other great finds!

• The Bureau County Fair is offering a variety of classes through its Floriculture Department, where participants can enter house plants, succulents, floral arrangements, painted rocks, garden art, and more. With over 195 categories to choose from, entries are due by August 5th, and there are opportunities to win cash prizes and ribbons. Exhibitor tickets cost $10, granting access to all five days of the fair, with entry fees for each category at just 50 cents.

• Sisler's Ice Cream is celebrating the month with two special treats: a Cotton Candy Milkshake topped with whipped cream and cotton candy crunch, and a Strawberry Lemonade Float featuring strawberry ice cream, lemonade, lemon-lime soda, and whipped cream. These limited-time offerings are only available this month, so make sure to try them while you can.

• Lit Up Taylor's Way is gearing up for the holiday season with early Christmas light installation bookings. Secure your spot now to enjoy a stress-free, beautifully lit home during the festive season. Take advantage of the special early bird offer and book before September 30th for exclusive savings.

• Two Angels announces that Santa's Magical Adventure is now live and ready for booking. This unforgettable Christmas experience offers families the chance to create lasting memories with a magical holiday adventure. Limited spots are available, so secure your booking now for the dates of November 17th and December 1st.

• Optimal Health introduces a new way to nourish your gut with their probiotic coconut waters. These delicious beverages are designed to support digestive health with 100 billion CFUs per bottle. Stop by Optimal Health to try these refreshing and beneficial drinks today.

• Mattie's on Main welcomes visitors to explore their latest finds. With a charming collection of antiques and unique treasures, there is something for everyone to discover. Stop by Mattie's on Main to browse their new arrivals and find the perfect piece for your home.

• Wild Honey Boutique is excited about the new fall arrivals, featuring soft and lightweight flannel shirts for $42 and cozy sweater tanks for $29. Open seven days a week, the boutique offers a variety of stylish options for the season. Visit Wild Honey Boutique to refresh your wardrobe with these trendy pieces.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is bringing back their popular “Elote” pizza for the month of August. This pizza features fire-roasted sweet corn from Boggio's Orchard and Produce, a homemade Chipotle Mayo base, mozzarella cheese, parmesan, and a cilantro-lime crème drizzle. Available with or without hot Cheetos, this unique pizza is a must-try this month.

• The Princeton Closet is featuring a variety of back-to-school items this week. Shoppers can find backpacks, school supplies, and even furniture perfect for a dorm room or apartment. Visit the store to discover these exciting treasures and get ready for the upcoming school year.

• Enjoy a perfect companion for your Olympic viewing at Monicals with a 14" Thin Crust Pizza topped with up to 3 of your favorite ingredients for just $18. This special offer is available for dine-in, carry-out, or delivery, making it convenient for any pizza lover. Use coupon code 143top to take advantage of this delicious deal.

• Tony's Butt Shack BBQ & Catering is serving up a mouth-watering bourbon chicken, complete with your choice of two sides. This delectable meal is sure to satisfy any barbecue craving. Visit Tony's Butt Shack to enjoy this savory and hearty dinner option tonight.

• Steven Becker from Thrivent invites everyone to a summer financial check-in to discuss progress on financial goals and any necessary adjustments. This is a great opportunity to address financial concerns and celebrate accomplishments. Contact Steven Becker for a quick consultation.

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware is holding a bucket sale this weekend. When you purchase a 5-gallon bucket for a $5 donation to the Children’s Miracle Network, you’ll receive 20% off nearly everything you can fit in the bucket. All donations go directly to a local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.

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🌎GIVE GEOCACHING A TRY

Geocaching is like stepping into a real-life treasure hunt that taps into your inner explorer. It's a global game where players use GPS coordinates to find hidden containers, called caches, tucked away in spots that range from urban parks to remote wilderness. The thrill isn't just in the find, but in the journey—navigating to the coordinates, deciphering clues, and sometimes even cracking puzzles along the way. Each cache is unique, with some being cleverly camouflaged in plain sight, while others might be hidden in spots only the most determined seekers would think to look.

But what really makes geocaching cool is the community behind it. There’s this unspoken camaraderie among geocachers, kind of like being part of an underground club that spans the globe. When you find a cache, you can log your experience, maybe swap out a trinket left behind by a previous adventurer, and leave a note for the next person. It’s a simple concept that’s somehow addictively fun—like you’re in on this secret world right under everyone else’s noses.

Princeton has several caches for you and your family to check out this fall. It’s not as high-tech as Pokémon GO, but I think you might enjoy the hunt.

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• 2nd Shift Custodian | Princeton High School | Full-time | Paid time off, health insurance, dental insurance

• Sales Associate | Dollar General | Part-time

• Delivery Driver | FedEx Express | Full-time & Part-time

• Crew Member | Wendy's | Full-time | Paid time off, health insurance

• Picker Packer - Urgent Hire | AutoZone | Full-time | Health insurance

• Information and Assistance Specialist | Bureau County Senior Citizens Association | Full-time | Paid time off

• Manager - Optical Center | Walmart | Full-time & Part-time | Paid time off, health insurance, dental insurance

• Line Operator | Monterey Mushrooms, LLC | Full-time | Paid time off, health insurance, dental insurance

• Cashier - Part Time | Road Ranger, LLC | Full-time & Part-time | $13.20–$17.42 per hour

• Bartender/Server | Chapel Hill Golf Course and Event Center | Part-time

• Infant Teacher | Zearing Child Enrichment Center | Full-time | $14.50–$17.00 per hour | Requires at least 30 semester hours of school, with at least 6 in Early Childhood, and 1 year of teaching experience

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

🚲FROM THE BIKE PLACE

We've received several his-and-hers matched pairs as donations in the past. There was a pair of lemon-yellow 3-speed Schwinn Breezes, followed by another pair of lemon-yellow 5-speed Breezes, which might have been a re-donation of the first pair. The first pair I remember were brown flake Continentals with rear racks and generator lights. We also received a pair of Dahon folders that, as folders, were technically “hers-and-hers” (or his-and-his), but since they were owned by a couple, they were considered his-and-hers.

This pair of Ross 3-speeds are by far my favorites. I noticed the women’s bike among the donations recently and was immediately charmed. I had Don clean it up, and he did an excellent job—he got the rims fairly sparkling. It was only then that I discovered we had the matching men’s version as well, and Don got its rims just as shiny.

The Ross family began making bicycles in New York in 1946. At some point, manufacturing moved to Allentown, Pennsylvania, which was closer to the steel supply they needed. Ross was known for a skip-tooth chainring designed to reduce drivetrain friction, and they were also the first company to mass-produce mountain bikes. They made high-end road and mountain bikes and created the first mountain bike team. In 1986, they moved production overseas, like many other companies at the time, and in 1988 went bankrupt after a failed attempt to expand the business with non-bicycle government contracts. In the history of Ross, you can see the same arc traced by countless other great American companies that failed in the late 80s. The good thing about Ross is that we don’t forget them because their product endures.

So what about this pair? Well, they’re not Schwinns, and they’re not lemon-yellow. Don’t get me wrong, Schwinns are great, but they are also common. Ross bikes are much less so. And when you consider the condition of this pair, which is great aside from needing one new tire and tube, and you see how the paint catches the eye because it’s unusual but understated, and you appreciate the bikes’ lines and form, you begin to realize what makes these bikes a greatly appreciated donation to the shop.

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath ranch home, located at 1816 S Main St is priced at $199,900 after a recent $20,000 price drop. It sits on a spacious 80x200 lot and offers an updated kitchen with a functional layout, main floor laundry, and a cozy sunroom—perfect for year-round relaxation. The property boasts a full basement that provides additional space, complete with a shower and room for customization. Situated in the heart of Princeton, this home combines solid construction with a great location, ensuring convenience and comfort.

• This delightful home, located at 537 Woodland Dr, is priced at $299,500. The residence features 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and covers 1,591 sqft on a spacious 0.37-acre lot. The layout includes a gas fireplace visible from the kitchen, enhancing the family room's cozy ambiance. A fully fenced yard with a large deck and updated landscaping offers a perfect setting for relaxation and entertainment.

• This move-in ready home, priced at $324,900, offers a spacious and beautifully maintained interior spanning 2,582 square feet. Nestled in a serene subdivision, it features three bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a master suite with a walk-in closet and a luxurious ensuite bathroom. The home boasts an open-floor concept with a gas fireplace in the living room, a well-appointed kitchen with granite countertops, and a partially finished basement that offers additional living space and a potential fourth bedroom. Outdoors, enjoy a large deck and an inviting above-ground pool, perfect for relaxation and entertainment.

🎉HOMESTEAD FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

Get ready to celebrate at the Homestead Festival! This jam-packed weekend is bursting with activities for everyone, from history buffs to music lovers, foodies to families. Here’s a peek at what’s happening, complete with times so you can plan your perfect festival experience:

Thursday, September 5th

• 5:00 PM: Kick off with a fascinating look at the Quilts of the Underground Railroad at the Sash-Satafer-Matson Building.

• 5:45 PM: Honor local legends with the Walk of Fame Dedication: Virgil Fox at Apollo Theater.

• 6:00 PM: End your evening grooving to Fleetwood Mac Tribute at the Down on Main Summer Street Concert on South Main Street.

Friday, September 6th

• 1:00–4:00 PM: Dive into history with Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours.

• 5:00–9:00 PM: Enjoy an evening of music with concerts at Soldiers and Sailors Park, featuring Dylan Schneider and Rodeo Drive.

• 5:00–7:00 PM: Satisfy your sweet tooth with the VIP Dinner and Sister’s Ice Cream at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

• 5:00–7:00 PM: Keep the kids entertained with a LEGO Design Competition at Prairie Arts Center.

• 6:00–8:00 PM: Don’t miss the Twilight Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

• 6:30 PM: Tune in for the Homestead Festival Announcements, including the Grand Marshal, Jr. Woman’s Club Baby Contest Winners, and the Window Display Contest Winners at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

Saturday, September 7th

• 8:30 AM: Start your day early with the Underground Railroad 5K Race at Bureau County Metro Center (Race starts at 9:00 AM).

• 8:00 AM–12:00 PM: Get competitive at the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament at Alexander Park (Register onsite until 9:15 AM).

• 9:00 AM–4:00 PM: Explore the Beat the Game Pit Arts & Crafts Show at the Courthouse Lawn.

• 9:00 AM–4:00 PM: Discover local treasures at the Homestead Festival Country Fair at the Heartland Bank South Parking Lot.

• 10:00 AM–2:00 PM: Take a stroll through history at the Bureau County History Center.

• 1:00–4:00 PM: Another chance to explore the Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours.

• 1:30 PM: Don’t miss the festival’s highlight—the Homestead Festival Parade.

• 7:30 PM: Cap off your day with the Concert & Family Fun at Rotary Park, featuring Steve Ray Vaughn Tribute: Wall of Denial and a free outdoor movie with popcorn and root beer floats at Evangelical Covenant Church.

Sunday, September 8th

• 6:00 AM–3:30 PM: Start your Sunday right with the 13th Annual Homestead BBQ Rib Cook Off at the Central Bank Parking Lot.

• 8:00 AM–12:00 PM: Enjoy a hearty Pancake & Sausage Breakfast at the Moose Lodge.

• 8:00 AM–3:00 PM: Spend your morning browsing the Homestead Festival Flea Market at the Bureau County Fairgrounds.

• 9:00 AM–3:00 PM: Watch talented artists in action at the Bryan Chain Saw Carvings at Bureau County Fairgrounds.

• 10:00 AM–4:00 PM: Let the kids have fun with Pony Rides & Kids Activities at the Bureau County Fairgrounds.

• 11:00 AM–5:00 PM: Indulge in delicious food at the Bureau County 4-H Pork Cookout at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

• 1:00–4:00 PM: Another chance to explore the Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours.

• 3:30 PM: Wrap up your weekend with a chance to win big at the 50/50 Raffle Drawing at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

There’s no better way to experience Princeton’s rich history, great food, and fantastic fun. Whether you’re a long-time local or a first-time visitor, this festival is sure to leave you with warm memories and plenty of smiles. Don’t miss out—join us for an unforgettable weekend!

🎸LOCAL MUSIC

• Big|Brave + Spiritual Poison | Barrel Society | August 6th, 7pm

• Back Road Music Festival | Wiley Park, Galva | Aug. 10th, 4pm

• Bring Him Home Opera | Prairie Arts Center | August 10th-11th

• Mitchell Tenpenny and Lauren Alaina | Bureau County Fairgrounds | August 22nd, 7:30pm

• Colby T. Helms & The Virginia Creepers | Barrel Society | Aug. 30th, 7pm|

Down on Main Summer Street Concert Series

• Dillon Carmichael will bring his unique blend of music on August 9.

• Followed by the World Turning Band on September 5.

• The season will wrap up on October 5 with an incredible performance by Mae Estes.

🍁LOCAL ORCHARDS

A Hundred Acres Orchard and Market

A Hundred Acres Orchard and Market at 14180 1800 East St. is a lively destination offering a variety of fresh produce including apples, berries, and melons. Inside the market, you'll find a wide selection of jams, jellies, sauces, dips, salsas, candy, and homemade "take n bake" pies. A standout feature is the Krazy Kernel Kettle Korn, made right in Princeton. The market also offers specialty cheeses like Antonella, Buffalo Wing Jack, and Tomato Basil Yellow Cheddar, which can be perfectly paired with wines available in the new wine shop. You can enjoy your purchases on the newly built outdoor patio. Additionally, the Cider Mill banquet room has been expanded to host up to 200 guests, making it an ideal location for weddings, receptions, parties, or reunions.

Boggios Orchard and Produce

Boggio's Orchard & Produce, located at 12087 IL Highway 71
Granville, offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities, perfect for visitors of all ages. Attractions include a jungle gym, swings, underground tunnels, and a unique apple tree slide. Families can also enjoy barrel train rides, a jumping pillow, an apple cannon, a corn maze, wagon rides, a bunny bounce house, pedal cars, and a petting zoo. The orchard is open for the season, with general admission priced at $10 per person on weekends from September 16 to October 29, which includes access to all activities. Children 2 and under can enter free of charge.

In addition to the fun activities, visitors can explore the U-Pick apple and pumpkin areas, allowing families to pick their own produce from over 1,800 apple trees and a variety of pumpkins. The bakery is a must-visit, offering delicious apple cider donuts, fresh breads, pies, turnovers, and a wide assortment of fudge. The orchard also hosts seasonal events, including the 25th Annual Pumpkin Harvest Craft Show, scheduled for September 28th and 29th, 2024, featuring over 100 crafters and vendors, as well as local food options. This combination of fun activities, fresh produce, and delightful treats makes Boggio's Orchard a great destination for a family outing this fall.

Tanner’s Orchard

Tanners Orchard, found at 740 IL-40, Speer, IL, has been a beloved family destination since 1947, offering a welcoming farm experience where four generations of the Tanner family have cultivated a rich tradition. The orchard spans over 11,000 trees and grows 17 varieties of apples, along with 20 acres of pumpkins and a wide selection of fruits and vegetables. Visitors can enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere, engaging in various activities such as apple picking, pony rides, and exploring the corn maze. The orchard also features a farm market and bakery, making it a one-stop spot for fresh produce and delightful treats.

Throughout the season, Tanners Orchard hosts special events that add to the fun. Upcoming highlights include a Butterfly and Ladybug Release Breakfast on August 17th and a S’mores & More event for adults on August 23rd. Families can also explore the sunflower field, enjoy outdoor activities, and participate in various family-oriented events. The orchard provides a perfect setting for creating lasting memories, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and experience the charm of farm life.

🗓️PRINCETON UPCOMING EVENTS

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

• Demolition Derby | Fairgrounds | August 26th

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

• Artisan Market | Hornbakers | September 14th

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

🍿AT THE APOLLO

Deadpool & Wolverine (R)

• A high-octane action film featuring the iconic Marvel characters teaming up for an epic battle.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 4:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Twisters (PG-13)

• A thrilling sequel to the classic tornado-chasing film, exploring new storm adventures.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 4:15 PM & 7:15 PM

Coming Soon: It Ends with Us (PG-13) starts Friday, August 9th. It Ends with Us is a romantic drama film based on the bestselling novel by Colleen Hoover. The story follows Lily Bloom, a young woman who moves to Boston and starts her own business, where she meets and falls in love with a charming neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid. However, as their relationship deepens, Lily is forced to confront difficult truths about her past and the complexities of love, particularly when her first love, Atlas Corrigan, re-enters her life. The film explores themes of love, domestic abuse, and the strength it takes to break cycles of pain.

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