🥵A Heat Wave, Artisan Markets, and The Forge

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Good morning, my Princeton people. Football is finally back. We have a wonderful (and hot!) week ahead. Go hard: Labor Day Weekend is on its way.

Let’s get fired up.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Home for Sale
🏈High School Home Games
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
🪴At Hornbaker Gardens
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
🎸Princeton Music
🌟Artisan Market
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• BCR: Princeton Park District announces open board seats for 2025 election

• The Bureau, Putnam, and Marshall County Health Departments continue to collect dead birds for West Nile Virus testing. Residents who find a fresh dead bird that appears to have died from natural causes are encouraged to call 815-872-5091.

• County Clerk: If anyone is interested in serving as an Election Judge for the November General Election, they should email the County Clerk at [email protected]. Judges are specifically needed in LaMoille, Manlius, and the southern part of the county. Also, today is the first day for candidates interested in running for election in the 2025 Consolidated Election can pick up their packets. Districts that have positions up for election include: Schools, Cities/Villages, Townships, Libraries, Park Districts, and Fire Districts.

• The Annual Homestead Festival Window Display Contest, hosted by the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce, is back and invites businesses to participate. This year's theme, "Back to Our Roots," encourages creative, eye-catching displays that capture the spirit of the festival. For more details on how to enter, visit the official Homestead Festival website.

• The Princeton’s Scarecrow Festival will make its grand return on Saturday, October 12, featuring an array of exciting activities for all ages. Highlights include the Monster Mash Balloon Bash, trick-or-treating on Main Street, a kids' costume contest, and the Bureau County Fair’s Annual Halloween Parade, which will be followed by a special performance of the Hocus Pocus Hags. The day will also offer a petting zoo, food vendors, fun activities for kids, and a thrilling Nightmare Haunted Attraction celebrating 21 years of scares, along with hot air balloon glows and tethered rides.

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🏠PRINCETON HOME FOR SALE

Ranch style home at 830 Bruce Lane, Princeton, IL 61356, Bureau County. Located in Greencroft, a desirable subdivision on the west side of Princeton.

A spacious single story home built in 1981. This home offers 1878 +/- sq. ft. which includes an eat-in kitchen, dining room w/gas fireplace, living room, family room and 3 bedrooms (1 currently a laundry room). There is a partial basement, 19' x 22' garage and a new driveway in 2020. All appliances will be included.

The home has vinyl siding, asphalt shingle roof, gas forced air heat and central air conditioning. Lot size is 76.75 x 159.37 x 142.65 x 153.73 (.4 acres). The backyard opens up to 7 acres of open meadow owned by the city.

Tax ID # is #16-17-452-020, 2023 taxes paid in 2024 were $3,685.38.

Asking price - $220,000. This property is being sold as is.

OPEN HOUSE will be held Thursday, September 5th from 4 pm - 6 pm and Sunday, September 8th from 1 pm to 3 pm

Offers may be presented at that time.

For further information please contact Rick Rediger 815-866-4486.

🏈HIGH SCHOOL HOME GAMES THIS WEEK

Monday:

🎾Girls' V Tennis vs. United Township High School at 4:00 PM

⚽️Boys' V Soccer vs. Ottawa High School at 4:30 PM.

⚽️Boys' F-S Soccer vs. Ottawa High School at 6:30 PM.

Tuesday: 

🏐Girls' F Volleyball vs. Lasalle Peru High School at 5:00 PM.

🏐Girls' V Volleyball vs. Lasalle Peru High School at 6:00 PM.

🎾Girls' V Tennis vs. Lasalle Peru High School at 4:30 PM.

Thursday: 

⛳️Boys' F-V Golf vs. Illinois Valley Central HS at 4:00 PM.

Friday: 

🏈Boys' V Football vs. Newman Central Catholic at 7:00 PM.

Saturday: 

⛳️Girls' V Golf Tournament at 8:30 AM.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

☀️Today: The day starts with some clouds, but mainly sunny skies dominate the afternoon with a high of 94°F. Winds are from the SSW at 5 to 10 mph. The evening remains mostly clear with a low around 74°F and light, variable winds.

☀️Tuesday: Expect a mostly sunny day with near-record high temperatures around 95°F. Winds will be from the W at 5 to 10 mph. The evening brings mostly cloudy skies with scattered thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. There is a potential for severe thunderstorms, with a low of 71°F and a 40% chance of rain.

🌩️Wednesday, August 28th: Scattered thunderstorms are expected in the morning, followed by hot and cloudy skies later in the day, reaching a high of 89°F. Winds are light and variable with a 40% chance of rain. The evening will see isolated thunderstorms, becoming partly cloudy overnight, with a low of 68°F and a 30% chance of rain.

🥵The Bureau County EMA has issued a warning for the hot and humid closing days ahead. To help beat the heat, the EMA suggests several precautions to stay safe. They advise wearing loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing to reflect heat and help keep cool. Additionally, staying in the shade or cooler areas when possible and hydrating regularly by sipping cool water can prevent heat-related illnesses. The EMA emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of heat exhaustion, which include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, nausea, and weakness. If these symptoms occur, it is crucial to act fast by moving to a cooler area, loosening clothing, and drinking cool water. Seeking medical attention is also advised if symptoms persist or worsen, as heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a more severe condition that requires immediate medical intervention. The symptoms include confusion, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. If someone is suspected of having a heat stroke, the EMA urges the public to call 911 immediately. While waiting for emergency services, it is essential to move the affected person to a cooler environment, remove extra layers of clothing, and cool them with water or ice. Heat stroke can result in death or permanent disability if not treated promptly. The EMA's message is clear: Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay informed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at the fair.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.59
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.66
Casey’s West/North: $3.65
Beck’s West/North: $3.65
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.55
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.67

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Second Story Teen Center will be grilling and serving brats, ribeyes, hot dogs, and pork chops on Saturday, Aug. 31, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Sullivan’s.

• True Leaves Bookshop has restocked their shelves with annotation kits and a variety of $1 stickers, perfect for avid readers and note-takers.

• Barrel Society is hosting a trivia night on Tuesday, August 27, with three open tables available. The trivia will cover various topics, including movies, music, history, and pop culture. To join, interested participants can send a message on Facebook or Instagram. Enjoy a fun night of drinks and trivia.

• Boek-el-ZOO now offers axolotls with a unique GFP gene that makes them glow. Visit the store soon to get one before they're gone.

• Wild Honey Boutique showcases their ZSupply All Day Knit Jacket, an ideal choice for cool mornings. The boutique invites customers to shop in-store from 10 am to 5:30 pm.

• Little Blue Dress offers a stylish range of outfits, including items on a 50% off sale rack and up to 70% off select shoes. Visit the store today between 12-4 for outfit inspiration and great deals.

• Downtown Liquidation highlights their "Where the Wild Things Are" toddler Halloween costume jumpsuit, available for $13. Perfect for early Halloween preparations.

• Once Upon A Craft is excited to host a paint party on August 29 at 5:30 pm, inviting adults and kids to create fun crafts together. The event will feature a new selection of crafts, and participants are encouraged to sign up in advance.

• The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile will be stopping at Sullivan's Foods in Princeton on Saturday, September 7. The giant hot dog on wheels will be in Mendota from 11 to 2 that day, and in Princeton from 3 to 6.

• Join us on Sunday, September 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Tony’s Butt Shack in Hollowayville for a car show benefiting Christmas for Kids. The event will feature awards, door prizes, trivia, and a silent auction, all set to music from AMC Sound DJ.

• Discover fantastic new treasures at Maupin’s Providence Homestead, located at 877 East Peru St. Open today until 5 p.m., their Princeton shop offers a unique selection of antique and vintage finds.

• Bean Buzz is offering a variety of exciting new drinks, including the "Tiger Punch" with blue raspberry and pineapple, "Tiger Town Energy" featuring toasted marshmallow and blue raspberry, and the "Fear the Stripes Frappe" made with white mocha and blue raspberry.

• Scooter’s Coffee has launched its fall menu, featuring new flavors like Green Apple Infusion, Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites, and Maple Bourbon Latte. Stop by to enjoy these seasonal favorites, including the Maple Waffle Sandwich and Autumn Caramel Crunch.

• Sign up for The Princeton Closet’s text list to receive alerts about new arrivals, basket day reminders, and more. Simply text “CLOSET” to 815-362-4010 or scan the QR code to join.

• Friends of Strays invites everyone to their Fall Open House on Saturday, September 23. The event will include facility tours, raffles, and more, with donations for raffles accepted during shelter hours.

• Optimal Health is now offering Nixie Zero Sugar Sodas, available in Classic Cola, Ginger Ale, and Root Beer flavors. These refreshing and organically flavored sodas are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a sugar-free beverage. Visit Optimal Health to be among the first to try them.

• Friends of Strays invites everyone to their Fall Open House on Saturday, September 23. The event will include facility tours, raffles, and more, with donations for raffles accepted during shelter hours.

• Today 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.

• Personalize your gifts with CUBBIES from BAD Makings LLC—adorable stuffed animals that can be customized with names, dates, or messages. Perfect for any occasion, these plush toys make unique, memorable keepsakes.

• Add some spooky flair to your home with new Halloween decor from Eclectic Joy. Check out their unique pieces to bring a touch of eerie elegance to your space this season.

• Fall and Halloween decorations are now available at Meadows On Main! Stop by to get your seasonal decor and bring festive vibes into your home.

• Celebrate the season with fall florals and a charming new sign from Once Upon A Craft. Find the perfect autumn decor to warm up your space and embrace the cozy season.

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🪴AT HORNBAKER GARDENS

Hornbaker Gardens invites the community to the free Artisan Market on Saturday, September 14th, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature over 40 artists showcasing a variety of crafts, including pottery, woodwork, photography, fiber arts, mixed media, painting, jewelry, glasswork, metalwork, leatherwork, mosaic, and sculpture. Attendees can enjoy a hands-on art experience by contributing to a community mural. The market also offers live music, August Hill wine, craft beer, local lunch options, bakery treats, and ice cream.

The live music lineup includes performances throughout the day, starting with Kevin Kramer at 10 a.m., followed by Al & Jeannie Brown at 11 a.m., Jeff Manfredini at noon, Emily Williams at 1 p.m., Joey Figgiani at 2 p.m., and Mr. Falcon at 3 p.m. This event provides an excellent opportunity to experience local art, music, and cuisine in a beautiful setting. For more information, visit hornbakergardens.com.

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Certified Nursing Assistant | In Home Care Connection Hospice Services | $19.00 per hour | Part-time | Flexible schedule, travel reimbursement

• Pharmacy Technician | Princeton Pharmacy | Full-time | Monday to Friday, occasional Saturdays

• Pharmacy Clerk | Princeton Pharmacy | Part-time | 12-15 hours per week (afternoons & Saturdays) | Must be at least 16 years old

• Delivery Driver | AutoZone | Part-time | Health insurance, dental insurance

• Stocking Unloading | Wal-Mart | Full-time

• Spotter | Ace Hardware Corporation | Full-time | Paid time off, health insurance, dental insurance

• Server | Pizza Hut | Full-time

• Sales Floor Associate | Dollar Tree | Full-time

• Team Member | Tractor Supply Company | Full-time

• Senior Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone | Full-time | Paid time off, dental insurance, health insurance

• Parts Specialist | O'Reilly Auto Parts | Full-time | Paid time off, dental insurance, health insurance

• Team Member | Culver's | $13 - $15 an hour | Full-time

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

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

🎸PRINCETON MUSIC

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

• The Killer Riffs | Hawg House Saloon | October 19th, 3pm

Down on Main Summer Street Concert Series

• The World Turning Band on September 5.

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

🌟ARTISAN MARKET OPPORTUNITY ON MAIN

From Lori at the Boek-el-ZOO: “Okay local artisans! As a brick and mortar, and entrepreneurial encourager, I have a business proposition.

I have space available for you to sell your wares. I will feature ONE local home based business every Saturday from now until Christmas. You will be provided a table, chairs, and I will create an event to be shared on the store page for advertising (I have over 4500 followers). I am located right on Main St. in Princeton.

Inbox me for details and to line up a date. Preference will be given to animal centered crafts, but others will be welcomed. This will run in conjunction (but separately) with our Children's program from 12-3.

So, if you have jewelry, home decor, homemade foods, drinks, fun stuff or an imaginative business you'd like to promote, let's work together.

If one succeeds, we ALL succeed!”

🍿AT THE APOLLO

It Ends with Us (PG-13)

• A romantic drama based on Colleen Hoover's bestselling novel, exploring the complexities of love and the courage needed to break cycles of pain.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 6:00 PM

The Forge (PG)

• A compelling story of resilience and faith as a community comes together to overcome adversity.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 6:15 PM

Note: The last show on Sundays is open captioned.

Please note that while fall sports are going on, there will be only one showtime per day from Tuesday to Thursday.

For tickets and more information, visit Apollo Princeton.

🪧Want to advertise? 1,300 subscribers, 10,000+ impressions monthly. Give your business the attention it deserves. Email: [email protected].