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Good morning, Princeton friends. From summer deals and home listings to weather shifts and upcoming community events, this week’s edition is packed with helpful info—and a few surprises you might not have heard yet. Whether you’re looking for a concert, a cool drink, or a reason to get outside, there’s something here for you.

Let’s roll.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
💼Princeton Businesses
🌠Thank You Cards
🚁National Night Out
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday to my son Carson Bullington and to my cousin, Ashley Bullington🎈!

• The Rotary Club of Princeton is hosting Lunch in the Park on Friday, August 1 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring grilled shrimp, sloppy joes, hot dogs, and $1 sides. All proceeds will benefit the Rotary Scholarship Fund, with pickup and delivery available.

• Bureau County Fair reminds concertgoers that now is the time to grab Trace Adkins tickets. The concert is set for Thursday, August 21, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. The Bureau County Fair has announced that band 303 will perform live from 1–4 p.m. on Sunday, August 24. Fairgoers are invited to enjoy this energetic afternoon concert as part of Sunday Funday at the fair.

• The Princeton Tigers Athletic Booster Club is preparing for the annual Tiger Classic Golf Tournament, taking place August 16 at Chapel Hill Golf Course. Teams of four can register for $350, which includes lunch, golf, drink tickets, and gift bags, with proceeds supporting athletic programs.

• The Bureau County Historical Society and History Center is hiring for two part-time positions with flexible hours and afternoon shifts, only four days per week. Employees will help preserve and share the history of Bureau County.

📍Outside City Limits

• The St. Jude Rides Golf Scramble will take place at Hidden Lake Golf Club in Sheffield on Saturday, August 30. Registration is $60 per person and includes 18 holes of best ball, dinner, fun, prizes, a 50/50 drawing, and a silent auction—all supporting children battling cancer.

• Sheffield Locker is stepping up to meet local demand following the closure of Wyanet Locker. They are now accepting wholesale, retail, and custom orders, with contact available at 815-454-2407.

• Wyanet Locker Closing Up Shop

• Republic/Teamsters talks resume Friday; recycling Monday in Peru

• Illinois Lawmakers Push for Faster Approval of Small Modular Nuclear Reactors

• Igniting Young Minds at IVCC Science FUNdamentals Camp

• Enhanced Security Measures at Illinois State Fair Ensure Safe Experience for All

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• Located just four miles from Princeton, 13437 1675 East St is a custom-built 4-bedroom, 3-bath ranch listed at $380,000 with 1,800 square feet on a 2.2-acre wooded lot. Built in 2007, this single-family home features vaulted ceilings, large Anderson windows, and a spacious open-concept design that fills the home with natural light. The kitchen includes maple cabinets, Corian countertops, a walk-in pantry, and electric shades on all windows. The home also features two bedrooms on the main level and two more in the finished basement, which includes a second kitchen, large family room, and radiant heated floors. Additional highlights include a wood-burning fireplace, in-floor heat tubing, EV hookup, a whole-house generator, a heated three-car garage, and separated living setups on both floors, making it ideal for multi-generational living.

• 444 S Chestnut St is a beautifully updated two-story home in Princeton listed at $180,000, featuring 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,636 square feet of living space. Located on a spacious corner lot, the home boasts wood flooring, a bright open-concept layout, and a chef’s kitchen with vaulted ceilings and expansive counter space. The main floor includes a flex room, half bath, and laundry, while the upper level offers three spacious bedrooms and a spa-style bathroom with a soaking tub. Additional highlights include a full unfinished basement, oversized heated garage, fenced backyard with patio, and an outdoor fireplace. Recently listed, this home is ideal for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying modern style and comfort.

• 103 S Plum St is a modernized 4-bedroom, 2-bath ranch in Princeton listed at $234,900, offering 1,400 square feet on a 0.28-acre lot. Recent upgrades include a new roof, siding, gutters, and Renewal by Andersen windows (2022–2023), with HVAC installed in 2018. The main level features a spacious living room, cozy kitchen with all appliances included, and a remodeled bathroom with double sinks. The full basement includes a second bathroom, laundry, and ample space for storage or fitness. Outside, the home offers a gazebo, mature trees, a detached heated 2-car garage, and is conveniently located near the Bureau County Fairgrounds.

🌼DANDELION WISHES REFURBISHED FURNITURE

Michelle DeVoss has this refurbished lodge chair available at her home shop in Sheffield. The front and back have been decoupaged with a buffalo and a southwestern design and sealed for durability. The frame and seat have also been redesigned. This is a unique chair that will make a statement. Asking price is $250 and limited delivery may be available. 

Be sure to follow “Dandelion Wishes Refurbished Furniture” on Facebook for upcoming projects! Michelle can be reached through Facebook Messenger or by email at [email protected]. 

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌦️Today: Hot and humid with sunshine and a few passing clouds. A stray early shower is possible, but most of the day stays dry. High reaches 93°F with a low of 71°F. Winds from the southwest at 5–10 mph. Humidity is elevated at 77%, making it feel even warmer. Heat safety precautions are recommended.

🌧 Wednesday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms expected throughout the day, with a 60% chance of rain. High of 81°F and low of 63°F. Winds from the northeast at 10–15 mph bring in cooler air. Humidity holds at 73%, adding to the sticky conditions. Skies become partly cloudy in the evening.

⛅️ Thursday: Partly cloudy and pleasant with no precipitation expected. High around 78°F and low near 60°F. Winds from the east at 8 mph, with humidity at 73%. A stable, dry day between wetter systems. Evening skies stay calm and comfortable.

🌤 Friday: Mostly sunny with a mix of clouds. High of 78°F and low of 55°F make for a mild, enjoyable day. Winds from the east-southeast at 8 mph. Humidity is steady at 77%, but overall comfort is high. Night remains partly cloudy and cool.

⛅️ Saturday: Partly cloudy skies and continued dry conditions. High temperature near 80°F with a low of 57°F. Winds light from the east-southeast at 5–10 mph. Humidity drops slightly to 70%, and overall it’s a great day to be outdoors. Quiet evening expected with only a few clouds.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.14
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.26
Casey’s West/North: $3.26
Beck’s West/North: $3.26
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.14
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.26

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🤼 Micro Wrestling at The Hawg House – A 21+ night of suplexes and body slams under 5 feet tall. Friday, August 1, 8–10 PM at Hawg House Saloon.

🚶 Walk a Mile for Freedom House – A downtown walk to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Saturday, August 2 at 9 AM. Includes teams, prizes, and activities.

🎶 The Wise Guys at the Princeton Inn – Party with live music from The Wise Guys at the Princeton Inn. Saturday, August 16 at 6 PM.

🎤 Trace Adkins with Brushville – Country music at the Bureau County Fair. Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 PM. Tickets at bureacountyfair.com.

🩸 Health Screening Blood Draw Clinic – Take part in a preventive blood screening hosted by the Bureau County Farm Bureau. Friday, August 22, 6–9 AM at 1407 N Main St, Princeton.

🎸David Miner and Charlie Jones will bring their blend of classic country storytelling to Barrel Society on Thursday, August 28.

🥁Midnight Rider at Soldier & Sailors Park — Enjoy live music with Midnight Rider at Soldier & Sailors Park on Saturday, September 6, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at 700 S Main Street.

🐶 UKC/SRS Dock Jumping Season Shutdown – Dock jumping competitions for dogs with UKC/SRS registration. September 13–14 at 1616 N Main Street. Details and registration at ukcdogs.com.

🚗 Open Garage – A car show featuring vendors, food, and more vehicles at Rotary Park in Princeton. Saturday, September 20, 8–11 AM

🛍️ 12th Annual Artisan Market – Over 30 artists, food trucks, live music, beer & wine at Hornbaker Gardens. Saturday, September 20, 10 AM–4 PM. Free admission.

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💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Four Seasons – Princeton is offering 50% off all jewelry in-store and online through August 3. The sale includes select styles only, with some brand exclusions, and cannot be combined with other offers.

• Friends of Strays – Princeton is encouraging donations to support Illinois Valley Animal Rescue (IVAR). Contributions go toward caring for local animals in need.

• Scooter’s Coffee invites customers to cool off with one of their colorful iced drinks during these hot summer days. The shop offers a vibrant variety of refreshing beverages perfect for a quick treat.

• Second Story Teen Center will host a Shoes & Socks Giveaway on August 2 from 2 to 4 p.m. in partnership with Another Child Foundation, distributing 400 pairs to students in grades 6–12, along with games and snacks.

• Rachel Rene – Princeton IL welcomes customers to experience their Summer Scents Collection in-store from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. or online. The display features a colorful lineup of seasonal bath and body products.

• Princeton High School registration for the 2025–26 school year is open from July 24 through August 12. Parents are encouraged to complete enrollment during this window to prepare students for the fall.

• Barrel Society announced a relaxing week ahead at their venue with a photo of recent activity and food trucks. Patrons can look forward to a laid-back atmosphere and continued summer fun.

• The Bureau, Putnam & Marshall County Health Department is offering free Narcan kits to the public daily at their offices. Narcan is a life-saving medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, with instructions provided for emergency use.

• Mavolan’s, in collaboration with Wild Honey Boutique, is ready for back-to-school season with a new collection for girls. The shop features playful dresses and backpacks that are perfect for young students.

• Princeton Youth Soccer League reminds families that this is the final week to sign up for fall soccer. Registration must be completed at www.pyslsoccer.com, and an account is required.

• Monical’s Pizza of Princeton is promoting coupons for their popular Budget Pleaser meals, including the $26 deal for a 16” pizza, salad, and drinks for four. Customers can dine in, carry out, or order online using a special code.

• The Bureau County Historical Society announced the Newell-Bryant Museum is closed until September 5 as they prepare the space for the upcoming H.W. Immke Exhibit. Meanwhile, the Clark-Norris Home and Research Library remain open with limited hours and appointment-based access.

• Tiskilwa Community Association is kicking off Pow Wow Days with a free Family Night on Thursday, July 31, from 6–9 p.m. at the Tiskilwa Public Library. Activities include face painting, a petting zoo, bouncy houses, a touch-a-truck, games, and a kid’s dance with DJ Chuck Hopper starting at 7 p.m.

• The Homestead Festival team encourages community members to register their floats for the annual parade by August 8. A major announcement about the 2025 parade is expected soon, and all parade details can be found at homesteadfestival.com.

• Friends of Strays shared a bittersweet update as their store manager moves on to new opportunities. They expressed their appreciation and well wishes for her future endeavors.

• Myrtle’s Pies announced they will be closed for vacation from July 27 through August 13. Customers are encouraged to plan ahead for their next sweet visit once the bakery reopens.

• Dairy Queen of Princeton has launched its new Blizzard of the Month: Reese’s Caramel Craze. The treat features Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, salted caramel truffles, and chocolatey shavings.

• City of Princeton Animal Control has many cats and kittens available for adoption, each with unique personalities. They are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and ask those interested to call or visit in person for more information.

• The Princeton Closet is wrapping up its Christmas in July celebration with new store hours launching Thursday at 9 a.m. They’ll be joined by Paw-Sitive Energy, serving festive Herbalife teas from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., or while supplies last.

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🌠JOIN THE “THANK YOU” CARD DRIVE

State Representative Travis Weaver’s office is organizing a “Thank You Card Drive” for deployed military personnel, running from June 10th to August 1st. Community members are invited to express their gratitude and support by submitting handwritten cards. Cards can be mailed or delivered directly to 337 Court Street in Pekin, Illinois 61554. Every card collected during this drive will be sent to soldiers currently deployed overseas. Representative Weaver’s initiative aims to boost morale and remind service members that their dedication is appreciated back home. Donations of cards are being accepted now through August 1, 2025.

From Regional Media News

🚁NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

The Princeton Police Department is hosting a National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Zearing Park on South Euclid Street. The evening is dedicated to community awareness and crime prevention, in partnership with the Princeton Park District. Attendees will enjoy free hot dogs, chips, and water. Scheduled activities include a K-9 demonstration at 6:30 p.m., drone demonstrations, face painting, a blood drive, and emergency vehicle tours. Special attractions include the LifeFlight helicopter, a mobile command center, and balloon twisting by Mr. Cinnamon. The event encourages families to meet public safety personnel in a relaxed setting. Numerous local partners and supporters will be present, including the Princeton Fire Department, OSF Life Flight, Culver’s, and many more. Everyone is invited to attend and connect with those who serve the community.

🍿AT THE APOLLO

🐺THE BAD GUYS 2 (PG)

The mischievous crew of reformed animal criminals is back for another high-stakes heist with even wilder antics and unexpected heart.

• PJ Premiere Thursday: 6:00 PM

🧬THE FANTASTIC 4 (PG-13)

Marvel’s beloved superhero team reboots with dazzling new energy as the group battles cosmic forces and their own growing pains.

• Tuesday & Wednesday: 4:15 PM & 7:00 PM

• Thursday: 4:15 PM only

🏎F1 – THE MOVIE (PG-13)

Brad Pitt stars in this high-octane racing drama that dives into the world of Formula 1, blending adrenaline with a personal comeback story.

• Tuesday & Wednesday (Last Day!): 4:00 PM & 7:15 PM

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