📸Lincoln Grade School, Dog Man, and Wheel of Fortune

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Good morning, Princeton. On this day in 1975, Wheel of Fortune premiered on NBC, captivating audiences with its innovative combination of word puzzles and a spinning wheel. Created by Merv Griffin, the show was initially hosted by Chuck Woolery and Susan Stafford, offering contestants the chance to win cash and prizes by solving phrases. It quickly became a cultural phenomenon, evolving into one of the longest-running and most beloved game shows in television history.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🍼Help Baby Zane
💼Princeton Businesses
🎭Festival 56
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
💝Magi Baby Chest
🎨Colors by Collette
🚗Five Fantastic Weekend Getaway Ideas
🔥Amazon Deals
💭Remember When
📍Outside City Limits
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Shawn Emmett! 🎂

• KWQC visited The Closet to interview representatives about the Lending Hand program. More Princeton organizations like the Bureau County Food Pantry, Second Story, Freedom House, and Arukah will be included as well. The segment will air on Wednesday, January 8, during the 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. time slots, with hopes of multiple showings in each slot. Additional content will also be available on their website.

• The Princeton Tigers defeated the Rock Falls Rockets 60-52 on Saturday, maintaining their lead throughout the game. Noah LaPorte led the Tigers with 18 points and 15 rebounds.

• Princeton Youth Baseball & Softball League registration begins January 13 online and January 29 and February 1 in person at the Prouty Building. Visit www.pybsl.org for details.

• Chelsea Sanchez of Chelsea Gives Back is organizing the “$5 Challenge” to raise funds for a 2025 graduating senior, inviting community members to donate $5 by January 11 through Venmo (@csancheezy7), Facebook Pay, PayPal ([email protected]), CashApp ($csancheezy7), or by mailing donations to Chelsea Sanchez, 1010 North Plum Street, Princeton, IL 61356. Participating seniors are asked to write a letter by April 5 describing their community service hours, favorite experience, and future plans for serving their community. The best letter will be awarded the collected funds, which can be used for necessities like food, gas, or tuition. The winner will be announced on May 1, with hopes for this initiative to grow into a scholarship program in the future.

• OSF hospitals have updated their mask policy, making masks optional for visitors while continuing to encourage measures that protect high-risk individuals like the elderly and those with weakened immune systems. The change reflects a shift toward prioritizing personal choice amidst ongoing concerns about COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. Additionally, visitor restrictions remain in place, allowing two visitors aged 18 or older per patient, with exceptions for special circumstances like end-of-life situations.

• Registration is now open for Session Two of the Youth Basketball League at the Bureau County Metro Center. The league, for K–5th grade students, starts on Saturday, February 15, with games at 8:15 a.m. Registration ends Friday, January 24, and entry fees range from $45 to $55.

• Construction on the Second Story Teen Center’s new facility at 125 S. Main St. in Princeton is progressing, with completion expected by spring 2025. The nonprofit, which serves about 150 teens weekly with meals, mentorship, and a safe gathering space, is seeking $250,000 in donations to meet its $600,000 to $700,000 fundraising goal.

• The Rotary Club of Princeton will be hosting the second annual Scholarship Fair Wednesday January 22nd. The event will be at the Prouty Zearing Community Building 6 to 8pm. Numerous organizations will be on hand to answer your questions and offer assistance with your scholarship needs. Questions contact Joanne at 815 719 2188 or email [email protected].

• Tickets for the Bureau County Fair’s upcoming concert featuring Trace Adkins are on sale. The event is scheduled for August 21, with various seating options available, including pit, track, and grandstand areas. Pricing starts at $30, with additional fees applied at checkout.

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🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This charming ranch home at 504 Harvey Dr. is listed for $244,500 and offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 1,862 square feet of living space. The property features a double-door entry with slate flooring, a large corner lot with a spacious lawn, and an oversized two-car heated garage with workshop space. Inside, the family room boasts hardwood flooring, built-in cabinets, and an electric fireplace, while the updated kitchen includes newer windows, a dishwasher, and a refrigerator less than a year old. Handicap-accessible features include a chair lift to the finished basement with a laundry sink, washer, and dryer. With additional storage buildings and a desirable location, this home is a rare find.

• Listed at $35,000, this 3-bedroom, 1-bath home at 25668 US Route 34 offers a great opportunity for restoration. The property features a large attic that could be transformed into additional living space, making it ideal for customization. With just under an acre of land, there is ample outdoor space for recreation or gardening. This home has potential for someone with a vision to make it their own. Take the chance to bring this property back to life and create something special.

• This lovely home at 3101 Bedford Dr. S. is listed for $119,900 and offers 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 1,300 square feet of living space. Featuring vinyl siding and a spacious primary bedroom, this property is perfect as a starter home or rental investment. It sits on a full-size lot with room for outdoor enjoyment and includes an attached one-car garage for convenience. With its affordable price, this home is a great opportunity to customize and make your own. Ideal for first-time buyers or those seeking a manageable investment property.

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌤️Today: The day will feature intervals of clouds and sunshine with a high of 26°F and winds from the NNW at 10 to 15 mph. The night will bring partly cloudy skies with a low of 12°F and winds easing to 5 to 10 mph. The weather will remain dry throughout the day and night. Expect a cold and breezy start to the week.

☀️Tuesday: Partly to mostly sunny conditions will dominate the day with a high of 25°F and winds from the NW at 10 to 15 mph. The night will be mostly clear with only a few clouds passing through and a low of 9°F. Winds will stay light, contributing to the chilly temperatures. A quiet and cold weather pattern continues.

🌤️Wednesday: Expect a mix of sun and a few clouds during the day with a high of 22°F and winds from the NW at 10 to 15 mph. The night will be mostly cloudy, with flurries possible and a low of 5°F. Winds will remain light, keeping the evening brisk. Another cold day with increasing evening cloud cover wraps up midweek.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.03
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.16
Casey’s West/North: $3.19
Beck’s West/North: $3.19
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.19
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.19

🍼HELP BABY ZANE

Reyne Dockins recently welcomed her baby boy, Zane, who is now two months old and facing significant health challenges. He was born with a serious heart condition involving a double right ventricle outlet deposition, two VSDs, and a damaged pulmonary artery. Zane recently underwent open-heart surgery and fought through it, but doctors have now discovered brain bleeds, and additional heart surgeries will be needed in the future. Reyne is doing her best to care for Zane while also supporting her 13-year-old son, Brayden, but the demands of this situation have left her unable to work. The family is in need of help to cover essential expenses like rent, groceries, travel, and gas during this time. Support is being requested to ease their financial burden and help them focus on Zane’s recovery and Brayden’s well-being.

Find out more here.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Bug Off Taylor’s Way offers professional pest control to keep your home critter-free this winter. Studies show hiring experts can reduce infestations by up to 50%. Call 815-875-8231 for effective and lasting results.

• Scooter’s Coffee introduces their new Strawberry Protein Shake, packed with 27 grams of protein to help you meet your fitness goals. Stop by today for a tasty way to fuel your resolutions.

• Once Upon a Craft now offers hand-painted ornaments all year round. Share your ideas for custom designs and find the perfect keepsakes.

• Connections Studio hosts a Winter Open House on January 25. Parents and kids (ages 5–14) can attend classes together. Visit ConnectionsStudioInc.com for details.

• Boek-el-ZOO invites you to visit their store and meet their adorable birds, including two still available for adoption. Stop by starting Wednesday at noon to join the fun.

• True Leaves Bookshop showcases their curated puzzle collection, including a beautiful Great Gatsby puzzle. Shop now for high-quality puzzles and bookish treasures.

• Wild Honey Boutique is offering 30% off all sweaters this week only. Stop in Monday through Saturday, 10–5:30, to grab your favorite styles.

• Hurry and enter to win a custom refurbished Sega Game Gear by attending Sonic 3 at the Apollo Theater. This iconic 8-bit handheld console, celebrated for its advanced features, comes fully upgraded with new components, custom artwork, and a copy of Sonic 2. Simply purchase your movie ticket to be entered in the drawing (rules apply, must be present to win).

• Today through Thursday at the Apollo, Mufasa (PG) is showing at 4:15 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. daily. Sonic 3 (PG) is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. daily. The Apollo is closed on Mondays. Dogman will premier January 31st.

• The annual Sweetheart Bowl will take place on February 8th for $40 per couple, with lanes reserved for four couples each. Call or message Pin Splitter Lanes to register and secure your spot for this Valentine-themed bowling event.

• Offering professional window tinting, Shane’s Shine Shop provides full vehicle side and rear window tints and a 6-inch windshield sun strip. Visit their location at 611 N. Pleasant St. in Princeton or call to schedule your service.

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👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Porter | Culver’s | Part-time

  Supports restaurant cleanliness and guest experience. Pays $15–17 per hour with health and dental insurance.

• Warehouse Specialist | ACE Hardware | Full-time

  Handles warehouse tasks, including stocking and logistics. Pays $19–21.50 per hour with benefits.

• Operations Assistant Manager | Dollar Tree | Full-time

  Supports store operations and staff. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Assistant Store Manager | Dollar General | Full-time

  Assists with daily store management. Benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Warehouse Associate (Production) | Ollie’s Bargain Outlet | Full-time

  Processes and stocks inventory for efficient store operations. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Cashier, Drive-thru | Beck’s Princeton West | Full-time

  Handles customer service tasks and drive-thru operations. Offers paid time off and dental insurance.

• Housekeeper | Goldwater Care Princeton | Full-time and Part-time

  Ensures cleanliness and upkeep of facilities. No degree required.

• Online Order Filling Team Associate | Walmart | Part-time

  Assists in fulfilling online orders. Benefits include dental and health insurance, as well as paid time off.

• Shift Manager | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Oversees shifts and staff operations. No degree required.

• Assistant Store Manager | O’Reilly Auto Parts | Full-time

  Supervises store activities, manages inventory, and supports customer needs. Offers health insurance, dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone | Part-time

  Assists customers with product selection and maintains stock levels. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Senior Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone | Full-time

  Supports store operations and customer needs. Includes health and dental insurance, along with paid time off.

• Server | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Provides excellent customer service and ensures prompt food delivery. No degree required.

• Stocking & Unloading | Walmart | Full-time

  Manages inventory unloading and stocking. No degree required.

• Manager Trainee | AutoZone | Full-time

  Develops leadership skills while managing store tasks. Benefits include health and dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Construction Laborer | Express Employment Professionals | Full-time and Contractor

  Performs various construction tasks. Requires communication and motor coordination skills.

• Lead Sales Associate | Dollar General | Part-time

  Assists with customer service and sales goals. Includes health and dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Sales Associate | Dollar General | Part-time

  Provides customer service and processes transactions. Pays $14–14.10 per hour with benefits including dental and health insurance.

• Medical Office Assistant (Gastroenterology) | OSF HealthCare | Full-time

  Handles office administrative tasks and assists patients. Includes health and dental insurance.

•  Production Technician | Corteva | Full-time

  Operates equipment and ensures production quality. Includes paid time off and dental insurance.

• Receptionist | H&R Block | Full-time

  Provides front-desk support and assists with administrative tasks. No degree required.

• Restaurant General Manager | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Oversees restaurant operations and ensures customer satisfaction. No degree required.

💪KATE BUTLER: R3 EXPERT

The holiday season is in full swing, and with it comes lots of food temptations and goodies. It's easy to overindulge, but let's make good choices and stay healthy. That way, we can get a head start on our New Year's resolutions! 

How many of us resolve to start a new diet in January, only to fall off the wagon and gain back all the weight we worked so hard to lose? I can help you break that cycle with a sensible plan that helps you enjoy the blessing of good food, resets your metabolism, and helps you break the cycle of overeating, dieting, and regaining weight. 

For more info: https://mylastweightlossprogram.com/kate or just call me at 815-878-3278 and we can chat in person..which I prefer!

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• The Knights of Columbus are hosting a Free Throw Championship for boys and girls aged 9-14 at Bureau Valley High School’s small gym. The event takes place on Saturday, January 18, with registration at 1 PM and competition starting at 1:30 PM, sponsored by St. Patrick’s Knights of Columbus Council 4537.

• The Gathering Place Community Center in Wyanet is accepting reservations for graduation parties, with dates filling up quickly. The venue offers an indoor space with tables, chairs, and a full kitchen for $100 per day, with no double bookings. Contact Debi Johnson to reserve a date.

• Donald Soens is offering snow shoveling services. For inquiries, call 1-815-940-6730.

• The 9th annual Sheffield Tractor Pull is scheduled for July 12, at its new location, Psycho Silo Saloon. More details about the event will be announced soon.

• Illinois has a long and storied history of producing some of the least inspiring license plates in the nation

• Illinois: Lottery Heist at I-57 Travel Center Leaves Police Scratching for Clues

• A recently shared rankings of U.S. colleges and universities that revealed which schools were the best, and which were the worst. Illinois and Wisconsin schools were represented on both lists.

• SCAM ALERT: Lee County Sheriff’s Office warns of law enforcement imposters demanding cash

• Vegetable Recalled Across Illinois Poses Risk Of 'Serious' Infection

🎭Festival 56

Summer Schedule

•  “Hairspray the Musical” will be staged from June 27 to July 5 at the Grace Theater. This vibrant production follows Tracy Turnblad, a bold teen striving for racial equality on a 1960s TV program.

•  “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will grace Soldiers and Sailors Park from July 6 to July 30. Shakespeare’s enchanting play delves into love, confusion, and whimsical fairy interventions.

• “Carrie: The Musical” runs July 11 through July 20 at the Grace Theater, unraveling the story of an outcast teenager navigating bullying and family conflict while discovering her supernatural abilities.

• “The Little Mermaid” is set for July 25 to August 3, showcasing Ariel’s quest for freedom and transformation in a captivating tale of courage and sacrifice.

• The Cabaret Series offers performances from June 20 through August 3, spotlighting diverse musical styles and creating a dynamic connection between audiences and performers.

Tickets can be purchased online at Festival56.com, at the box office, or by calling 815-879-5656.

💝MAGI BABY CHEST

The Magi Baby Chest in Princeton has set the date for its Magi Gala, a Valentine’s evening celebration, on Saturday, Feb. 15, at the barn at Hornbaker Gardens.

This formal fundraising event will feature dinner and dancing in support of the Magi Baby Chest. Guests can enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres starting at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. The Steve Sharp Band will provide live music, and the evening will include a small silent auction and additional activities. The nonprofit describes the event as a mix of fun and sophistication, designed to help babies and toddlers in need.

Proceeds from the gala will fund baby supplies for families. The event’s aim is not only to generate financial support for the Magi Baby Chest but also to engage the broader community and highlight the services the organization provides to local families.

The Magi Baby Chest hopes to expand its donor base and inspire ongoing support beyond the St. Louis parish community. The nonprofit encourages attendees to invite friends interested in learning about and supporting a pro-family initiative.

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be purchased online at magibabychest.com or at the St. Louis parish office. Open seating will be available unless a table of eight is reserved. Tickets are priced at $75 per person or $600 for a table. Quantities are limited. Donations can also be made online or by mailing a check to St. Louis Church, with “MBC” noted in the memo line.

🎨COLORS BY COLLETTE AT THE PRAIRIE ARTS CENTER

The February Gallery Show at the Prairie Arts Center will feature Collette Yelm and her art exhibit: Colors by Collette. Join us for an Opening Reception on February 7th from 6-8pm and enjoy refreshments. The show will run from February 7 – February 23rd. The gallery is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-3pm and is located at 24 Park Ave East in Princeton, IL.

"It all began with a painting class and a finished piece of work that just didn't seem quite right... so I taught myself "Pour Painting." I covered the original piece with a pour painting and I have been hooked ever since! I have presented my pieces at various art exhibits and craft fairs throughout the area and have been commissioned to paint specialty pieces also. I have taught Pour Painting classes at Prairie Arts Center on canvas, vases and Easter eggs. My appreciation of art was inspired by my amazing mother who had a love for "beautiful things." As a mother of 8 children, she was always sewing, painting, hand stitching or creating something amazing in her spare time. I am fortunate that that desire to create and "love beautiful things" was passed on to me. I grew up in Rockford, Illinois, third in line in an Irish, Italian family of 8 children. A graduate of Boylan Catholic High School and Illinois State University with a degree in Social Work. My career included working in mental health for 15 years and 27 years as a social worker at Perry Memorial Hospital. It was during this time that my involvement in home parties kept my creative interest flowing. Selling handmade crafts, specialty clothing, and being a representative for Silpada Jewelry kept me very busy. I live in Princeton, Illinois with my husband, Charlie Yelm, who has been supportive over the years of my ever changing hobbies. We have two beautiful children, Katie in Princeton and Michael in Dallas. We have 5 amazing and creative grandchildren who love to pour paint! I am always trying to improve and create new looks. I hope you enjoy the colors as much as I enjoyed creating them."

🚗FIVE FANTASTIC WEEKEND GETAWAY IDEAS 

Winter in Princeton brings the charm of small-town life, but sometimes, a quick weekend getaway is just the ticket to shake off the winter blues. Whether you’re looking for scenic beauty, cozy retreats, or fun activities, these five destinations within a few hours’ drive offer something for everyone.

1. Starved Rock State Park

Located just 40 minutes from Princeton, Starved Rock State Park is a winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s dramatic canyons transform into icy spectacles during the colder months, with frozen waterfalls offering stunning photo opportunities. Bundle up and enjoy the winter hiking trails, and then warm up with a meal at the historic Starved Rock Lodge, which offers cozy accommodations and an inviting fireplace.

2. Galena

About two hours northwest of Princeton, Galena is a picturesque town known for its 19th-century charm. In winter, the town comes alive with holiday decorations, boutique shopping, and wine tasting at local vineyards. For a romantic or family-friendly outing, consider a stay at Eagle Ridge Resort, where you can enjoy sledding, snowshoeing, and a relaxing spa.

3. Peoria

Just over an hour from Princeton, Peoria is a hub of cultural and family-friendly activities. Visit the Peoria Riverfront Museum, which features engaging exhibits and a planetarium. Winter events, such as the Festival of Lights in nearby East Peoria, make it a festive spot to visit. Don’t miss the city’s excellent dining scene, which includes hearty Midwestern fare to warm you up.

4. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

A little over two hours away, Lake Geneva offers a magical winter escape. The town boasts ice castles, scenic lake views, and opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at nearby resorts. You can also enjoy shopping, fine dining, or simply relax in a cozy lakeside cabin. The Winterfest and U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship in late January is a highlight.

5. Wisconsin Dells

About three hours north of Princeton, Wisconsin Dells is a perfect winter destination for families. Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” the area offers plenty of indoor waterparks to escape the cold, like Kalahari Resorts or Great Wolf Lodge. For outdoor enthusiasts, Cascade Mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. With a mix of cozy lodges and lively entertainment options, the Dells is an excellent winter weekend escape.

🏀UPCOMING HIGHSCHOOL SPORTS

Monday, January 6th

• Girls Basketball (FS & Varsity): @ Hall High School, 5:30 PM

Tuesday, January 7th

• Boys Basketball (FS, JV, & Var): vs. Kewanee High School, 5:30 PM

Thursday, January 9th

• Scholastic Bowl (All): @ Kewanee with vs. EP, 5:00 PM

• Girls Basketball (FS & Varsity): vs. EP, 5:30 PM

Friday, January 10th

• Boys Basketball (FS, JV & Var): @ Hall, 5:30 PM

• Boys Wrestling (Varsity): PIT Invite, 4:30 PM

Saturday, January 11th

• Scholastic Bowl (All): @ LP, 8:00 AM

• Boys Wrestling (Varsity): PIT Invite, 9:00 AM

• Girls Basketball (FS & Varsity): @ Ottawa Marquette, 1:00 PM

🔥AMAZON DEALS

• New Amazon Kindle Scribe (64 GB): $394.99

• Bio Ionic Long Barrel Styler, Curling Iron: $94.29

• GoPro HERO13 Black Accessory Bundle: $299.99

• humanN SuperBeets Heart Chews: $25.64

• Bissell Cleanview XR Pet 300W Cordless Vacuum: $179.00

💭REMEMBER WHEN…

🍿AT THE APOLLO

🎥Now Playing Through January 9th

Mufasa (PG)

• A prequel to The Lion King, chronicling Mufasa’s rise to become the King of Pride Rock.

• Tuesday-Thursday: 4:15 PM & 7:00 PM

Sonic 3 (PG)

• Sonic and his friends return for another high-speed adventure filled with action and fun.

• Tuesday-Thursday: 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM

Coming Soon

1. A Complete Unknown - A film exploring the life of Bob Dylan, starring Timothée Chalamet.

2. Flight Risk - A gripping story starring Mark Wahlberg.

3. Dog Man - A family-friendly animated movie premiering on January 31st, about a part-dog, part-man hero.

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