💧Hornbaker’s is Opening, a Flute Takeover, and Hydrant Flushing

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Good morning, Princeton friends. The gardens are being frantically planted, businesses are rolling out fresh sales, and Princeton is getting ready for a full-on flute takeover with Route “Flute” 66. If you can survive the pollen, the bird-sized mosquitoes, and the temptation to buy yet another garden gnome, it’s shaping up to be a great week.

Let’s have at it.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
🎨Art Exhibition
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🪈Flutes
💼Princeton Businesses
📍Outside City Limits
⛺️Civil War History
🗓️This Week in Princeton
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Ariel Rose! 🎈

• BCR: Illinois State Police troopers spent the pre-dawn hours Saturday picking up nails – possibly strewn intentionally – from the turnarounds on Interstate 80 in La Salle and Bureau counties.

• RMN: Illinois State Police Asking For Information on Suspects that Placed Nails on Crossovers on Interstate 80

• SRM: Accused Farm Management Thief In Bureau County Pleads Not Guilty

• Princeton supports its "Flags of Freedom" with Saturday fundraiser

• The 3rd Annual Bureau County Fair Queen Golf Tournament will be held on May 10, 2025, at Spring Creek Golf Course in Spring Valley. Registration is $70 per player before April 10 and $80 after, with check-in at 8:00 a.m. and a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. For questions, contact Shari Marquez at (815) 252-6835 or [email protected].

  The City of Princeton announced that city-wide hydrant flushing will begin Monday, April 14. Residents may notice stronger chlorine odors, cloudy water, or slight drops in water pressure during this time. For questions, contact the Princeton Water Plant at 815-872-0811 ext. 1304 or email [email protected].

• The Princeton Tigers girls’ track team took second place at the Rosenberry Indoor Classic in Sterling, scoring 73 points behind Fulton’s 98. Top performers included Ashlynn Weber, who won the triple jump, and Jocelyn Strouss, who won the 800-meter run and contributed to the first-place 4x800 relay team along with Alexandra Waca, Payton Frueh, and Camryn Driscoll. Several athletes set personal or season bests, with strong showings from Annie Thompson (2nd in pole vault), Ruby Acker (2nd in 1600m), and the 4x400 relay team placing second.

• The Bureau County Retired Teachers Association is hosting a luncheon meeting at the Princeton Public Library on April 16th, offering a platform for former educators to reconnect.

• Bureau County Sheriff Report 4/7/2025

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch at 503 Billings Street is newly listed for $149,900 and offers 1,100 square feet on a corner lot near Zearing Park. The home features new hardwood floors, an eat-in kitchen, a spacious laundry room with a second shower, and a screened-in back porch. The private patio and backyard create a peaceful personal oasis ideal for relaxing outdoors. An attached one-car garage provides extra storage, and the home is described as low-maintenance and move-in ready.

• This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home in Princeton is listed for $99,900 and offers 1,754 square feet of space on a 10,836 square foot lot. The home is move-in ready with some updates, including a half bath on the first floor and a fenced backyard, but it still needs TLC, such as repairs to the front porch and central air system. Features include a large kitchen, separate dining room, mudroom with laundry hookups, and driveway access from the street to an alley. The property is being sold as-is and has room to add a garage if desired.

• This 3-bedroom, 2-bath home at 205 Elm Place is listed for $122,000 and offers 1,840 square feet on a nearly half-acre corner lot. The home combines old-style charm with an open floor plan and is located just two blocks from shopping and dining. It features living, family, and dining rooms, plus an enclosed back porch and open porches for relaxing. A two-car garage provides convenience while still leaving a large yard for outdoor enjoyment.

🎨THE LAMOILLE SCHOOLS ART EXHIBITION

The LaMoille Schools Art Exhibition is a multidisciplinary showcase featuring projects from students in kindergarten through high school. Mr. Scott Hitzler, serving as a long-term art substitute teacher, introduced new lessons, creativity, and sparked an interest in architecture at the secondary level. With a background in Multidisciplinary Studies of Architecture and Business, he brought a unique perspective to the program.

In preparation for the Prairie Arts Council exhibition, students had the opportunity to explore a variety of mediums and techniques. They experimented with pointillism, watercolor painting, string art, paper mache, collaging, and large-scale displays. The experience has been incredibly rewarding, with excellent participation from students across all grade levels.

The gallery will be open at t he Prairie Art Center Saturdays and Sundays from 1 - 3 pm through April 27 (gallery closed on 4/20).

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

☀️Today: Sunny skies with a high of 50°F. Winds will be light and variable around 5 mph. During the night, it will be partly cloudy with an isolated shower possible, and a low near 37°F. Winds will shift from the north to the northeast at 10 to 15 mph.

☔️Wednesday: Mostly cloudy skies with scattered showers and a high of 57°F. Winds will be out of the southeast at 15 to 25 mph. Overnight, considerable cloudiness continues with occasional rain showers and a few snowflakes mixed in. Low around 38°F with south winds at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain is 40%.

🌦️Thursday: A few early showers are possible, then skies will become partly cloudy later in the day. High around 54°F with west-southwest winds at 10 to 20 mph. At night, expect a few clouds from time to time and a low near 37°F. Winds will be out of the northwest at 10 to 15 mph.

☁️Friday: Skies will be considerably cloudy with a high near 57°F. Winds will be light out of the north around 5 to 10 mph. Overnight will be partly cloudy with a low of 36°F, with west-southwest winds at 5 to 10 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.29
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.32
Casey’s West/North: $3.32
Beck’s West/North: $3.32
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.32
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.32

🪈ENJOY THE ILLINOIS VALLEY FLUTE ENSEMBLE & BLOOMINGTON-NORMAL FLUTE CLUB IN PRINCETON

The Prairie Arts Council is excited to announce the Route “Flute” 66 concert on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at the Prairie Arts Center. The concert is free to the public, but a free-will donation will be taken. Described as “a musical cross-country trip following Route 66 from Chicago to California,” it will feature performances by the Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble and the Bloomington-Normal Flute Club.

The Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble, established in 1991 and directed by Sue Gillio, is a premier performance group in central Illinois. Known for a diverse repertoire ranging from Bach to the Beatles, the ensemble is based in the scenic Starved Rock Country. With a membership of 20-25 players, the group maintains an active performance schedule and has appeared at notable events such as the Chicago Flute Club Festivals in 2001 and 2009, as well as at the Epiphany Center of the Arts in Chicago in 2023. The ensemble was honored to perform as one of three invited groups at the 37th Annual Principals Association Conference at the Peoria Civic Center in 2008. The Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble also sponsors the annual Flute Day each February and hosts the Summer Flute Retreat every June.

The Bloomington-Normal Flute Club, founded in 2023 and directed by Rachel Bailey, is a dynamic and growing group that performs extensively in the Bloomington-Normal area. The ensemble is comprised primarily of adult flutists and aims to create an inclusive, welcoming environment for flutists of all experience levels. Rachel Bailey, a former student of Sue Gillio and an alumna of the Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble, is a flute performer and instructor at the Music Shoppe in Normal, IL. The two ensembles previously collaborated on the program “Inspired by Starved Rock” in 2024.

This special concert is an exciting opportunity to enjoy the talents of these two esteemed flute ensembles as they embark on a musical journey across the country.

The Prairie Arts Center is located at 24 Park Ave. E. in Princeton. Founded in 1995, the Prairie Arts Council is dedicated to strengthening and supporting participation in the arts across North Central Illinois. Since its formation, it has sponsored hundreds of concerts, programs, exhibitions, productions, and classes for individuals of all ages and abilities. Programming is funded in part through grants from the Illinois Arts Council Agency and The Closet.

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⛺️CURIOUS ABOUT CIVIL WAR HISTORY?

Looking for a fun family activity?

Curious about Civil War history?

Enjoy camping in the great outdoors?

We’d love for you to join us!

We are a living history group looking for new members. If you’re interested, here are a few ways to learn more:

1. Stop by our display tables at this weekend’s Gun Show at the Bureau County Fairgrounds.

2. Send a private message to: [email protected]

3. Attend this year’s Shadows of the Blue and Gray Civil War living history reenactment at City-County Park in Princeton, IL.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Tony’s Butt Shack BBQ & Catering is taking Easter Sunday reservations for April 20, with breakfast from 8 AM–2 PM and brunch specials starting at 10 AM. Featured items include stuffed pork loin, chicken broccoli alfredo, broiled cod, caramel bread pudding, and drink specials. Call early to reserve your spot!

• Boek-el-ZOO is hosting a giveaway for a Discovery RC Tarantula; spend $10 or more to get a ticket for the drawing. Use it to surprise someone or gift it to a spider enthusiast! The winner will be drawn on the last day of April.

• Wyaton Hills Golf Course is open for the season, and season tickets are available now. Events coming up include the Men’s Scramble on April 26, Two-Man Better Ball on April 28, and the Men’s League Play kickoff on April 30. Junior Golf returns in June, and club fitting days are set for May 7 (Mizuno) and May 21 (Ping).

• The Milk Moustache is for sale after nearly a decade of business on Princeton’s Main Street. Buyers have the opportunity to purchase the business and two connected, historic Main Street buildings. Serious inquiries can be directed to Janelle McCarter at Landmark Realty or through the listing here.

• Dairy Queen fans can check the DQ app for this week’s deals running April 7–13, featuring $2 any-size Misty Freezes, $1 off Signature Stackburgers, and $2 off Chicken Strip Baskets. Small shakes or malts are also just $2.99, and there’s $1 off app or online orders of $5 or more. These deals are available at any DQ location that serves food items.

• It’s Griddle Week at Neighborhood Ace Hardware, and the 28” Blackstone Omnivore Griddle is on special for $279.99 while supplies last. Perfect for backyard cooking, the griddle is ideal for everything from pancake breakfasts to taco nights. Stop by Ace to check it out and grab one before they’re gone!

• Crazy Eight Homestead Farm Stand is celebrating opening day today, Saturday, April 12, starting at 9 AM until sold out. The stand offers fresh chicken eggs and duck eggs with prices listed, and accepts Venmo, Cash App, or cash. Make sure to stop by early to get your farm-fresh eggs while supplies last!

• Friends of Strays is introducing Timmy, an adorable 8-month-old Catahoula/Husky mix who is playful, dog-friendly, and housebroken. Timmy weighs 32 pounds, has a silky coat, and loves belly rubs, his blankie, and nylabones. He’s looking for a forever home but would do best without cats.

• Optimal Health is offering hundreds of sale items right now for shoppers looking for great deals. Shoppers are encouraged to stop in and browse the long list of discounted grocery and household items. It’s a great time to stock up and save big!

• Faith’s Fabulous Treats is tempting customers with delicious fried Oreos, served with powdered sugar or a drizzle of hot fudge. These sweet treats are a hit no matter how you like them. Stop by to grab a box of these made-to-order goodies!

• Four Seasons in Princeton has a fresh spring outfit idea ready today featuring a bright pink Andree top paired with white Democracy jeans and a cute grey floral Baggalini bag. These pieces are some of the staff’s current favorites. Stop in to check them out and update your wardrobe for spring!

• Gateway Services is hosting its 7th Annual Egg My Yard event, delivering candy-filled Easter eggs to yards across multiple counties. Prices range from $20 for 25 eggs to $65 for 100 eggs, and orders must be placed by April 14 at 4 p.m. More details and the order form are available here.

• Five 22 is promoting a new Mono B brand skirt/skort that’s soft, comfortable, and features pockets and built-in shorts. It’s perfect to dress up or down for summer. The boutique encourages customers to stop in and try it on.

• Corner Chair Market shared a preview of two heavily distressed side tables they plan to restore. They invited customers to guess how amazing the transformation will be once the tables are refinished. Updates will be shared once the pieces are complete.

• Hornbaker Gardens is busy preparing for their April 10 opening day with painting, potting, gardening, pricing, and more. Staff are working hard to get everything ready for customers. The excitement is building as spring kicks off at the gardens.

• Splash Tech Solutions is reminding businesses that websites need spring cleaning too. They invite customers to contact them for quotes on tidying up or remodeling their online presence. An office desk cleaning photo accompanied the announcement.

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📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Curt Johnson will present “Early Gunmakers in Illinois and the Bureau County Area (with display)” on Saturday, April 12 at 3:00 p.m. at Mason Memorial Library District, 104 W Main St, Buda. The public is welcome, and the library is handicapped accessible. Everyone is invited to attend and learn about local history.

• Area Fire Departments Secure $250,000 in Essential Equipment Grants

• Secret Church: The Gospel of Matthew — Visit Cornerstone Community Wellness in Sheffield for this evening event on Friday, April 11, from 6:00 PM to midnight. David Platt, a well-known pastor and writer with a passion for missions, will be live-streamed as he does a six-hour teaching on the Gospel of Matthew. This lengthy teaching is reflective of the persecuted church in other countries where Christianity is illegal, resulting in Christians gathering only a few times a year and late into the night. Tickets are required and cost $14 per ticket, which includes a guided scripture journal as well as snacks. If interested, please register here.

🗓️THIS WEEK IN PRINCETON

🦞 Cousins Maine Lobster at Princeton Walmart — Enjoy fresh Maine lobster delights from the Cousins Maine Lobster food truck at Princeton Walmart, Friday, April 11, from 4–7 PM. Location: 2111 Claude Bailey Pkwy, Princeton, IL.

🛍️ Craft & Vendor Show & Flea Market — Shop Easter crafts and flea market finds at the Craft & Vendor Show, Saturday, April 12, from 9 AM–2 PM. Location: 811 W Peru St, Princeton, IL.

🖼️ LaMoille Schools: April Gallery Exhibit — View art from LaMoille students K–12 at the Prairie Arts Center Gallery, Saturday, April 12, from 1–3 PM. Location: 24 Park Ave E, Princeton, IL.

🎮 Grand Opening of The Gamers Guild Lounge — Celebrate the grand opening of The Gamers Guild Lounge with free gaming, VR demos, pizza, and drinks on Saturday, April 12, from 1–9 PM. Location: 104 N Main St, Princeton, IL.

🎶 Flute 66: A Musical Cross Country Concert — Enjoy performances by the Illinois Valley Flute Ensemble and Bloomington Normal Flute Ensemble at the Prairie Arts Center, Saturday, April 12, at 3 PM. Location: 24 Park Ave E, Princeton, IL.

🌸 Spring Friendzy — Shop participating stores during Spring Friendzy, April 13–18, for a chance to win Easter gift baskets! Location: 514 S Main St, Princeton, IL.

🍿AT THE APOLLO

MINECRAFT (PG)

• A fun adventure based on the beloved video game, bringing the blocky world to life with action and humor for all ages.

• Tuesday-Thursday: 4:45 PM & 7:15 PM

SNOW WHITE (PG)

• A live-action retelling of the timeless story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, filled with magic, music, and heart.

• Tuesday-Thursday: 4:30 PM & 7:00 PM

KING OF KINGS (PG)

• A powerful new film from Angel Studios, telling a great story about faith, redemption, and hope.

• Showtimes: Starts Friday

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