🍦Ice Cream Month, Opera in Princeton, and Pure Honey

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Good morning, Princeton. July is National Ice Cream Month, the perfect excuse to hit up Dairy Queen, Grandma Rosies, or Sisler’s — several times. It’s kind of a law. You have to. Did you know the origins of ice cream go way back to when Roman Emperor Nero and Alexander the Great enjoyed icy delights? Fast forward to the 18th century in the U.S., where ice cream started becoming a favorite, thanks to inventions like Nancy Johnson's hand-crank ice cream maker in 1843. And we have President Ronald Reagan to thank for officially making July the month to celebrate all things ice cream. And, believe me, the Bullington’s will celebrate. If you are lactose-intolerant, ignore everything I just wrote.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅Places to Go This Weekend
🎤Bring Him Home
🏠Home For Sale
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏀Princeton Person of the Week
🏷️Local Sales
💼Princeton Businesses
🔗Top Links of the Week
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Openings
📍Outside City Limits
🖼️Artisan Market at Hornbakers
☀️Letter from Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Eli VanAutreve 🎂

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce and Bureau County Fair invite you to join their annual Christmas light display. Get involved early and help spread holiday cheer by registering before the September 30th deadline.

• It looks like the weather pattern over Illinois is about to get excitable again. A new forecast says the incoming heat dome which will cause temperatures to spike into the 90's is expected to ignite a storm pattern that could even include derechos in parts of the Land of Lincoln.

• KWQC: Starting July 14, the cost of a first-class forever stamp will increase from 68 cents to 73 cents.

• Princeton Elementary District #115 is hosting a no-cost walk-in sports physical clinic on August 7th for 5th-8th grade students. Visit Logan Junior High between 4-6 PM to ensure your child is ready for the school sports season.

• Support local schools by donating essential school supplies at any First State Bank location from July 8th through August 31st. Your contributions will help ensure every child has the tools they need for a successful school year.

• The Princeton Youth Soccer League has extended their registration deadline to tomorrow, July 14th at 11:59 PM. This opportunity is open to all children in the surrounding area, not just Princeton families.

• The Princeton Fire Department is offering a Basic Operations Fire Academy starting soon. This $100, four-month program provides structured training for aspiring firefighters, with classes on Monday and Wednesday evenings and two Saturday classes per month.

• The Princeton Junior Woman's Club is now accepting entries for the 2024 Homestead Baby Contest, open to Bureau County residents under 24 months of age as of September 6th. Prizes will be awarded to the top boy and girl winners, as well as the runners-up, with all winners having a spot in the Homestead Festival parade on Saturday. Entries must include a high-resolution photo and be emailed by August 7th, with in-person and Venmo voting beginning on August 9th.

• Scammers often offer to "fix" your computer problems to steal your personal or financial information by installing malware or ransomware. They may claim your finances are at risk due to hacking and ask for personal info, even pretending to connect you with a "federal agent" or bank representative. Protect yourself by being vigilant and visit consumer.ftc.gov/scams for more information.

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✅PLACES TO GO THIS WEEKEND

• Connections Studio is hosting auditions for "Dreamin' Big" today from 11 AM and July 14 until 9 PM at 956 N Main Street. This unique opportunity is open to aspiring dancers aged 10 to 18, offering a memorable experience filled with education, love, and respect for the performing arts. Don't miss this chance to connect with fellow performers and make your dreams a reality. More details to come soon!

• Boek-el-ZOO is hosting a special event featuring Sun Conures today from 12 PM to 3 PM. Brekin will showcase three beautiful and friendly sun conures, perfect for photo opportunities. Additionally, children under 10 will receive a free scoop from Sisler's Ice Cream next door, and visitors are encouraged to explore the Farmers Market from 8 AM to 1 PM before heading north to the zoo.

• Tai Chi in the Park takes place tomorrow from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at Alexander Park, offering a serene and beneficial exercise routine under the shade of trees by the pond. This event is designed for all ages, providing numerous mental and physical health benefits. The cost is just $2 for senior citizens and $6 for kids and adults.

• First Lutheran Church is hosting a Vacation Bible School tomorrow to July 18, from 5 PM to 7:30 PM each evening. The event, themed "Scuba VBS," promises fun, fellowship, and immersion in God's Word through engaging Bible lessons, music, crafts, and games, with supper provided. For more details, visit flcprinceton.org or call 815-875-1685.

• St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, also known as "Church on the Hill," is hosting a John Linker Organ Concert tomorrow at 1:30 PM. John Linker, former church member and current director of music at Christchurch Transitional Cathedral in New Zealand, will perform. There will be a free-will offering to benefit a local charity, and refreshments will be served in the fellowship hall following the concert.

🎤BRING HIM HOME

Dane Suarez, a native of Princeton, has captivated audiences with his powerful and emotive performances. “This fall I am making my professional International debut at Wexford Festival Opera in Wexford, Ireland as Don Ferolo Whiserandos in Charles Villiers Standford’s satirical opera, The Critic, as well as presenting a recital. I will be taking the opportunity to present as many of these pieces from the recital at the concert in Princeton.

The audience can expect a diverse range of music, from heartfelt arias, art songs, and musical theater, to more contemporary and unexpected pieces—certainly something for every musical taste. There may also be some guest appearances from some of my colleagues throughout my journey!”

Joining him is the talented pianist Nick Towns, whose mastery at the keyboard provides the perfect accompaniment to Suarez's vocals. “I am so excited to be collaborating with another Princeton native, Nick Towns. The pieces on the program will showcase his immense talent and we can’t wait to share that with the city that raised us.” Together, they promise beautiful night of music to resonate with all attendees.

The "Bring Him Home" concert is not just an opportunity to experience a great performance; it’s a celebration of the arts within our community. The Prairie Arts Council has long been dedicated to nurturing local talent and fostering an appreciation for the arts. This event highlights the incredible impact our community has had in shaping artists who go on to achieve successful careers in the arts.

“Growing up in Princeton, I found my community in the arts. Through community theater productions for the Homestead Festival, children’s theater at Prairie Arts Center, PHS productions, and being a part of Festival 56 seasons, it became clear to me that being on stage was what made me feel alive. There is a gratifying power that vulnerability on stage gives you, connecting deeply with the audience and creating a shared emotional experience. Performing at the Prairie Arts Center and PHS Auditorium again feels like coming full circle again and sharing that powerful connection with the community that nurtured my passion from the beginning,” says Suarez.

“When opera fell into my path, it was unexpected, but upon reflection, I believe it was always there, subtly shaping my journey. My first role as Louis in the Homestead Festivals production of The King and I, and my second was as Amahl in Amahl and the Night Visitors (technically my first opera!). Operatic mezzo-soprano and former PHS choir director, Joy Schertz recognized my talent at a young age and was my first voice teacher. Despite my teenage defiance, Ms. Schertz worked tirelessly to steer me toward a career in music. David and Shelley Gorenz also kept opera in my life by taking me to my first opera (Rigoletto in Peoria) and to see Jerry Hadley perform at BVHS auditorium dedication. My late grandmother Mary McCauley, a dedicated music teacher and organist, had a profound influence on my musical journey. Her passion for music was contagious and her encouragement was a constant source of inspiration. All of these influences combined to ignite and nurture my love for opera and performing.”

By attending this concert, you will be supporting the Prairie Arts Council’s mission to continue offering valuable arts programs and events that enrich the lives of residents in Princeton and beyond. Your ticket purchase will directly contribute to sustaining the arts in our community, ensuring that we can continue to provide opportunities for emerging artists and cultural enrichment for all.

To purchase tickets, please email [email protected] or call 815-875-2631 X 1014.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: Mostly sunny with a few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High near 90°F. Winds from the south at 5 to 10 mph. Partial cloudiness early in the evening, with scattered showers and thunderstorms later during the night. Gusty winds and small hail are possible. Low 73°F. Winds from the south at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 40%.

Sunday: A few clouds early, otherwise mostly sunny. High 91°F. Winds from the southwest at 10 to 15 mph. A few clouds in the evening from time to time. Low 74°F. Winds from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph.

Monday: Intervals of clouds and sunshine. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. High 94°F. Winds from the southwest at 10 to 20 mph. Isolated thunderstorms in the evening, then mainly cloudy overnight with thunderstorms likely. Low 72°F. Winds from the southwest at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 70%.

⛽️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

🏀PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

🏅Mike Fredericks

Reason for Nomination: “Mike Fredericks is a science teacher at Princeton High School, coaches boys and girls basketball teams at various levels, and seems like a really fun and a great dad. We appreciate how much he cares about the students and kids he serves. He is very appreciated in our community.”

Bingo, Mike. You are the bees knees. 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.

🏷️LOCAL SALES

• Mark your calendars for a massive sale on July 12-13 from 9 AM to 3 PM on 722 N. Linn Street, where everything must go! Featured items include a 1987 Ford Mustang GT and a vintage John Deere Riding Lawn Mower, aged 50-70 years, along with numerous accessories. The sale will also offer an extensive range of tools, yard equipment, and more from both the garage and shed. Don't miss this opportunity to snag some great deals!

• A Farm and Business Tools Sale is scheduled for August 10, from 9 AM to Noon, at 23434 US Hwy 6. This is an excellent opportunity for local businesses and farms to acquire tools essential for their operations. Make sure to arrive early to get the best selections!

Add your garage sale to the list: email at [email protected]

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Miss Paula's local pure honey is available in many locations in the area. A 1-pound jar is $8, and a 3-pound plastic flip-top container is $22. Support your local beekeeper and the businesses who carry their honey! You can find Miss Paula's honey at Sullivans in Princeton and Mendota, Optimal Health, Wild Ginger, Bean Buzz, Saylers General Store, Wyanet Locker, Utica Spice, Hennepin Food Mart, Walnut Country Acre Grocery Store, and Valley Fresh Harvest in Ladd.

• Play It Forward Counseling has summer openings available and is ready to help you. For more information about their services, visit playitforwardcounseling.com.

• Paisano's Ristorante introduced July's pizza of the month: Jalapeño Popper pizza. This unique creation features a base of cream cheese and jalapeño mixture, topped with mozzarella, fried jalapeños, and a drizzle of ranch, offering a creamy, crunchy, and spicy delight. The pizza will be available starting July 5th and throughout the month of July.

• Wild Honey Boutique is offering a buy one, get one 50% off sale on all dresses, tanks, shorts, graphic tees, and summer tops from today to Sunday.

• Friends of Strays urgently needs donations of Fancy Feast Kitten Food. With many kittens to care for, your contributions can make a big difference.

• Join the Bureau County Metro Center for a special Nerf event on Friday, July 19th, with sessions for different grade levels throughout the afternoon. Bring your own launchers, and standard darts and balls will be provided.

• Come laugh with the Bureau County Senior Center as certified laughter leader Chris Thompson from Greenfield Retirement Home leads a session on August 8th from 10:30-11:00 AM. This free event promises smiles and fun for everyone.

• Crazy Eight Homestead Farm Stand will be open today from 9 AM to 7 PM, or until sold out, whichever comes first. They offer farm fresh eggs laid with love by their spoiled rotten hens.

• Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Sisler’s Ice Cream on Sunday, July 21st, from 2 PM to 8 PM. Enjoy grasshopper shakes, peppermint pie, and a chance to win a giveaway basket. Don't forget to wear your ugly sweater for a special discount!

• Freedom House invites young learners to its "Let's be Friends!" event, designed to teach children ages 6 and up the importance of building lasting friendships. The sessions are scheduled for Wednesday, July 24 at 544 Tenney Street, Kewanee, and Friday, August 9 at 446 Elm Place, Princeton, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Participants will enjoy the featured film "Big Hero 6" and will be provided with lunch and snacks. To reserve a spot, please contact Nicole Frank at (815) 872-0087. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity for children to learn about friendship through interactive and engaging activities!

• The Bureau County Senior Center offers a stress-busting class for caregivers of loved ones with dementia. The program focuses on stress management techniques and support, starting July 23rd, from 1-2:30. RSVP here: 815-879-3981.

• IHCC Hospice invites the community to a remembrance service on July 13th from 1-3pm. This event provides an opportunity to share memories and reconnect with the hospice team, with refreshments provided. RSVP here: 815-821-6100.

• Enjoy amazing deals at Mavolan's with 30% off all shorts, dresses, summer tops, and sandals from today through Sunday. Don't miss this special end-of-season offer!

• Grab Rachel Rene's Bug Off Spray, made with essential oils to keep pesky insects away.

• Check out the latest Vera Bradley styles at Four Seasons in Princeton or Pegasus Fine Gifts in Geneseo. New fabrics and accents are in store now.

• Enjoy tasty tacos and more from La Katrina Autentica today at the Barrel Society. Join for great food and drinks from 12-8 PM this weekend.

• Celebrate National Ice Cream Day with Sisler’s Ice Cream on Sunday, July 21st, from 2 PM to 8 PM. Enjoy grasshopper shakes, peppermint pie, and a chance to win a giveaway basket. Don't forget to wear your ugly sweater for a special discount!

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🔗TOP LINKS THIS WEEK

• Illinois Residents, Avoid Answering Calls from These 8 Area Codes

• Here Are The Most Stolen Vehicles In Illinois And Across The United States, According To The NICB

• This charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home on 127 S Church St spans 2,062 sqft within a 0.34-acre lot, reflecting a quintessential blend of historical allure and modern convenience. Built in 1901, the home features an inviting living room freshly painted, complemented by an updated eat-in kitchen.

👷PRINCETON JOB OPENINGS

• The Manager Trainee (MIT) position at AutoZone is a transitional role designed to prepare candidates for Retail/Commercial Store Management positions. Candidates should have 1-2 years of experience as a retail manager or supervisor and be able to work a flexible full-time schedule, including mornings, nights, weekends, and overtime. Preferred qualifications include bilingual skills, automotive experience, and financial analysis experience. Responsibilities include delivering exceptional customer service, driving store execution and performance, supporting the Store Manager with overall store operations, financial management, staff training and development, inventory management, and implementing store policies. The role offers competitive pay, paid time off, health and dental insurance, and opportunities for advancement within the company. The training program typically lasts 8-12 weeks, depending on the candidate's performance and prior experience, and involves operations and management skills training.

• Taylor's Way is actively seeking a dedicated Tree Climber/Trimmer to join their team. This full-time role offers up to $25 per hour and includes a comprehensive benefits package with health insurance, 401(k) matching, and opportunities for advancement. Candidates should have experience with tree trimming and hold a valid Illinois driver's license. Interested applicants can apply through USAJobs or contact Taylor’s Way directly at (815) 878-6126.

• The DC Area Manager at Ollie's Bargain Outlet in Princeton is responsible for overseeing the daily production plans for receiving and stocking departments. The role requires a high school diploma or equivalent and at least five years of higher management experience within a distribution center. The manager must effectively lead a team of associates, ensure the completion of daily tasks, and maintain a professional work environment. Key duties include maintaining confidentiality, adhering to a flexible schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays, and performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting up to 50 pounds and using ladders. The manager must also develop production plans, achieve performance goals, ensure safety compliance, and complete internal reporting processes. Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills are essential for this role.

• KS Lawn and Snow LLC is currently hiring and looking for a dedicated, hardworking individual with prior lawn care experience. Applicants must possess a valid driver's license to qualify. The company offers competitive wages and reasonably flexible hours, making it an excellent opportunity for those seeking employment in this field. Interested candidates should reach out directly at (815) 878-6126 to inquire further or apply.

• The Electrical Process Engineer role at Allegion in Princeton is an intermediate-level position within the Process Engineering department, responsible for daily improvements in the assigned production area, small capital projects, and high-level team participation. This role requires strong engineering fundamentals to independently handle tasks such as preparing designs, layouts, and estimates for the installation and maintenance of electrical and electronic equipment in the plant. Responsibilities include leading Lean Manufacturing initiatives, utilizing problem-solving techniques to address complex issues, and managing productivity and cost-saving projects. Additionally, the engineer is expected to stay updated with cutting-edge technologies, assist in strategic manufacturing process development, and handle short and long-range capital planning. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K plan with a company match, tuition reimbursement, unlimited PTO, and various employee discounts and community involvement opportunities. The ideal candidate should have proficiency with RS Logix 5000, Studio 5000, AutoCAD, MS Office Suite, and experience with PLC programming and working with cobots and robots.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• 6 juveniles were arrested in connection to stolen vehicles in Kewanee.

• On Saturday, July 13th, from 9 AM to 12 PM, volunteers are needed to help sort clothing donations at Cornerstone Community Wellness, located at 302 N Mason St, Sheffield. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals to give back to the community and support The Store. Sorting will begin at 9 AM and continue until about 12 PM - 1 PM. Any amount of time volunteers can contribute will be greatly appreciated, as more help will make the process faster and more efficient. Those interested in volunteering are encouraged to respond to the post or send a message.

• On Saturday, July 20th, at 9 AM at Buda Community Hall, the Quilts of Valor Ceremony will honor Buda veterans and service members with the presentation of Quilts of Valor. These quilts symbolize appreciation and recognition for their service. To learn more about the Quilts of Valor, an informational program will be held on July 17th at 5 PM at Buda Mason Memorial Library.

• On Saturday, July 20th, from 11:30 AM to 4 PM at Stewart Park, Buda Fun Day will offer a day full of enjoyable activities. The event kicks off with a parade at 11 AM, followed by a bags tourney starting at 12 PM. Throughout the day, there will be various fun activities including pony rides, bumper cars, bounce houses, a Velcro wall, wacky trikes, face painting, a petting zoo, and a foam party at 3 PM. Food trucks from Tacos Guzman, Bradford Snack Shack, Ooh Ra BBQ, and a Carnival Truck will be present, and DJ Brian Phillips will provide music. All activities are free except for pony rides and food, making it a perfect family outing.

• The Buda Townwide Sales will take place on August 9th and 10th. This event offers a great opportunity to explore and purchase items from various sales throughout the town. Individuals can sign up to participate by adding their name to the signup sheet available at Casey’s. This community-wide event promises great deals and a chance to connect with neighbors.

🖼️ARTISAN MARKET AT HORNBAKERS

The 11th Annual Artisan Market is set to showcase a blend of established and emerging talents on September 14 from 10 AM to 4 PM. The event features a diverse array of artists such as David Anderson, known for his captivating nature photography, and Bonnie Jean, who excels in jewelry and metalsmithing.

This year welcomes newcomers like Marissa Burch with her ceramic pottery, Kathy Carey who designs distinctive hats and leather goods, and Lindsey Chavez, a skilled glass artist. Additional new faces include Emily Maze, noted for her metal sculptures, and Jennifer Mercer, who brings her vibrant oil and acrylic paintings. Dylan Punke will present his photography, enhancing the visual diversity of the event. Anita Young's hand-painted home decor pieces will also debut, offering unique aesthetic enhancements for any home.

The Artisan Market provides an excellent opportunity to engage with local artists and acquire unique, handcrafted pieces ranging from paintings and pottery to jewelry and woodwork. The community is encouraged to support these creative talents and enjoy a day filled with art and inspiration.

☀️LETTER FROM LORI

I love the sunshine. It brings me to life. Its warm rays motivate me to move and accomplish tasks. I can see things better when they are lit up. As a person, I like to compare myself to sunshine. I prefer to bring light and sight to life and situations. I love to encourage and motivate people.

Unfortunately, too often I find that life works hard at putting clouds in my way. The fog rolls in, and I'm not as brilliant as I'd like. The clouds hide my light, and others can't see what I have to offer. If you are in touch with weather and its many idiosyncrasies, you know that it never rains forever. You also know that it is unpredictable and even the best planning, forecasting, and science doesn't ensure that it will be sunny all the time.

Funny thing about those clouds and rain... we need them. "WHAT?" you say? But the wetness dampens my spirit. The rain makes my hot dog soggy and forces me indoors where there is nothing better to do than gaze out at the pool, dreaming of a colorful flotation device and an adult beverage in hand. The standing rainwater brings mosquitoes and mud which bite and create glorious, messy artwork on our freshly mopped floors when an overly excited canine returns to the house after doing its 'duty'.

Most days, I loathe dreary weather...until I realize that the rain has saved me the work of watering my outdoor flowers. The mosquitoes have provided a food source for various other critters that I DO enjoy. The rain forced me inside where I spent time in quiet reflection and was able to tackle a project or two. I may even have time to pull out the Uno game and force a Draw 4 onto my unsuspecting child. The clouds covered the sunshine, but my eyes didn't hurt from playing the 'sun stare' game, and I wasn't roasted to a fiery red that caused pain at the end of the day.

Yes, I prefer the sunshine, but without the cloudy days, I wouldn't appreciate it as much. And so it is with the people in our lives. We need those who illuminate us and our situations, but we also need those who slow us down and take us inside. Frustrating for sure, but necessary for balance. So, if you have a bright soul, peek through the clouds. If you are gray, just try not to set anyone on fire with your lightning!

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

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].