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Happy Saturday morning, Princeton. Dear mom: you taught me how to love coffee, and you cared for me when I was sick. Music is a huge part of my life because of you, and nobody makes better cheesecake. You give my kids lots of candy, and you almost got attacked by a bear and a bison. Most importantly, you led me to Jesus. I love you, Mom (Audrey Bullington). Happy early Mother’s Day.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🐴Wonder Junction
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆Princeton People of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
🌹Nancy Lincoln
❤️Local Obituaries
👷Princeton Job Openings
🔍Health Inspections
⏰Letter from Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• BCR: Taylor Wetsel is where she wants to be. She is the newest Princeton police officer.

• WLPO: A Princeton man has pulled off the rare feat of being arrested three different times in five days.

• There are only two weeks left to register for the PHS Summer Volleyball Camp, happening June 16–19 for students entering grades 3–12. Complete the form here or download it here and submit by May 23.

• Luke Smith stepped up Thursday in Spring Valley when the Princeton Tigers needed him most.

• Lunch in the Park returns every Friday from 11 AM–1 PM at Soldiers & Sailors Park beginning May 16 and running through September 26. Each week features a different group serving lunch and hosting a bake sale.

• The Z Tour Bike Ride is coming up on June 21, and registration is now open. Sign up and get all the event details here.

• The Bureau County Metro Center is now taking registrations for Youth Swim Camp. Improve swimming skills and stay active this summer—register by visiting the Metro Center or online here.

• Bureau County Sheriff Report

📍Outside City Limits

• Author John Butte will present “The Silver Streak & the Gypsy Coeds” at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 17 at the Mason Memorial Library in Buda, IL, sharing the story of nine adventurous girls from Bradford who traveled across the country in the 1930s and 1940s. Weather permitting, the historic car will be on display before and after the event, with a book signing to follow.

• Cornerstone Community Wellness is celebrating 10 years of promoting health in the community. On Monday, May 26, they’re hosting a free family event from 4:00–6:30 PM at 302 N. Mason St., Sheffield, IL, featuring walking tacos, games, kids’ activities, and an open house. Guests can also enjoy prize drawings and share their input during a community session at 6:00 PM.

• KWQC: ‘Thrive On Main’ to fill downtown Sheffield Saturday

• Communities along Route 34 are encouraged to have town-wide garage sales, food stands and other events. This will include LaMoille, Dover, Princeton, Wyanet, Sheffield and Neponset in Buireau County, and Kewanee, Galva, Altoona, Oneida and Wataga in Henry County.

• L-P And Hall Music Educators In Running For Grammy

🐴WONDER JUNCTION VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Wonder Junction Vacation Bible School will be held at Princeton Bible Church from Sunday, June 8 to Thursday, June 12, 2025, running nightly from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. The program is open to children ages 4 (fully potty trained) through 6th grade. The VBS theme is “Marvel at Jesus, Live for His Glory,” aiming to help kids know who Jesus is and what He has done for them. Activities include energetic assemblies with music, wacky intros, and a mission moment, followed by rotation through five fun stations. Registration is free, and a themed music CD is available for $2.50 at the registration table each evening. The event promises a joyful, Christ-centered experience for kids to grow in faith and wonder.

Register here

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

☀️Today: Sunny. High around 80°F. Winds west at 5 to 10 mph. Saturday night: Mostly clear. Low 51°F. Winds east at 5 to 10 mph.

☀️Sunday: Sunny. High 83°F. Winds southeast at 5 to 10 mph. Sunday night: Mostly clear. Low 55°F. Winds south-southeast at 5 to 10 mph.

☀️Monday: Sunshine. High 84°F. Winds south-southeast at 10 to 15 mph. Monday night: Partly cloudy. Low 60°F. Winds east at 5 to 10 mph.

⛅️Tuesday: Partly cloudy. High 80°F. Winds south-southeast at 10 to 15 mph. Tuesday night: A few clouds. Low 62°F. Winds south at 10 to 15 mph.

☀️Wednesday: Plenty of sun. High 86°F. Winds south-southwest at 10 to 15 mph. Wednesday night: Partly cloudy. Low 63°F. Winds southwest at 10 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.19
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.26
Casey’s West/North: $3.29
Beck’s West/North: $3.29
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.29
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.29

Peru Gas 👀

Sapp Bros.: $3.06

🏆PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

Did someone go the extra mile? Did a Princeton Person bless you or someone else you know? Nominate them, give me the details, and they may be chosen as the Princeton NOW Person of the Week. Nominate your Princeton Person of the Week by emailing your nomination to [email protected].

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• Miss Betsy’s has introduced a new French Cruller donut, available glazed and either plain or topped with chocolate frosting. Stop in to try one for a sweet start to your day.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is serving up a new Buffalo Chicken sub layered on their buttery garlic bread with crispy buffalo chicken, lettuce, and house-made buttermilk ranch. It’s available from 4–9 PM and brings the heat with a cool finish.

• Finders Keepers has restocked with fresh clothing, home décor, and accessories, and every purchase helps support Friends of Strays animal shelter. They are also seeking volunteers for dog walking, cat care, store help, and cashier positions—perfect for students looking for service hours.

• Little Blue Dress will be closed Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11 to celebrate Prom, Mother’s Day, and the owner’s birthday. Use code MOM for 20% off orders over $50 placed online at this link Saturday and Sunday only (not valid in store).

• The Apollo Theater is showing Thunderbolts (PG-13) and The Ballad of Wallis Island (PG-13) from May 9–15. Showtimes run Friday through Sunday and Tuesday through Thursday, with the last Sunday show open captioned—view full details or buy tickets here.

• Fresh Finds has restocked their Stonewall Kitchen items and added new flavors, perfect for gifting or entertaining. They’re open 9–6 Friday and Saturday and 10–2 on Mother’s Day for last-minute shoppers.

• Five 22 is offering a Mother’s Day special—make any $50+ purchase on May 9 or 10 and receive a free car diffuser of your choice. They’ll be open Friday from 10–5:30 and Saturday from 10–4, but closed Sunday.

• Rachel Rene is stocked and ready to help you find a perfect Mother’s Day gift. They’ll be open Friday from 10–5:30 and Saturday from 10–4, and closed Sunday to spend time with family—shop here.

• La Katrina Autentica will be serving up food at 15 West Marquette (behind Barrel Society) on Saturday, May 10, from noon to 7 PM. Stop by and grab a bite from this local favorite food truck.

• Optimal Health has restocked with a popular request—Panda licorice in multiple varieties, including soft original and raspberry. These non-GMO treats are now available while supplies last.

• Hornbaker Gardens now offers live online inventory to check product descriptions, prices, and availability before you visit. Explore seasonal plants and flowers and shop by category here.

• Wild Honey Boutique now offers a dry cleaning drop-off and pick-up service through Sanitary Cleaners. It’s a convenient new way to take care of your clothes while you shop local.

• The Bureau County Metro Center is hosting a Lifeguard Certification Course from May 22–25. Participants must be 15 or older—register in person, by phone, or online.

• Dairy Queen is promoting new app deals valid May 12–18, including $2.50 mini Blizzards, $1 off dipped cones, and up to $3 off chicken baskets. Download the app and check each Monday for fresh rewards.

• City of Princeton Animal Control is featuring Kai, a sweet and energetic 1.5-year-old beagle/cattle dog mix looking for a forever home. He loves the outdoors and would make a loyal companion—stop by 1118 N. Church Street to meet him.

• Boek-el-ZOO invites families to visit Saturday and bring the kids from 12–3 to make a Mother’s Day gift with Jocelyn. Enjoy animal encounters and colorful surprises while exploring the shop.

• Wild Ginger Bistro is featuring Spicy Tuna Rolls all weekend long. The chef admits he’s not great at social media—but the food speaks for itself.

• The Studio is stocked with new dresses and will be open Saturday from 10–4. Shop online anytime and check out their newest arrivals here and here.

• Meadows On Main is celebrating Mother’s Day Week with a special offer: buy a $25 gift certificate and receive a 15% off coupon for your next visit. Plus, Kelly Baumann will be selling baked goods in-store Saturday from 10–2.

Upcoming:

• Mother’s Day Flea Market: Celebrate Mother’s Day by exploring a variety of vendors at the Bureau County Fairgrounds on Sunday, May 11. Find unique gifts and treasures from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

• Growing Up X with Erika Holst: On Tuesday, May 13, at 6:00 PM, join historian Erika Holst at the Princeton Public Library as she discusses the experiences of Generation X. Gain insights into the cultural and societal shifts that shaped this generation.

• Main Street Dance Academy Spring Recital: Experience the talent of local dancers at the Main Street Dance Academy’s Spring Recital on Saturday, May 17. The all-day event promises captivating performances and community spirit.

• Princeton Community Band Concert: Enjoy an evening of music with the Princeton Community Band on Sunday, June 1, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Bring your lawn chairs and relish the melodies under the open sky.

• Chamber Classic Golf Outing: Tee off at the annual Chamber Classic Golf Outing on Friday, June 6. Network with local professionals and enjoy a day on the greens.

• The Princeton Mile: Participate in The Princeton Mile on Saturday, June 7, starting at 10:00 AM. The race begins at the Apollo Theater and concludes at Rotary Park, promoting fitness and community engagement.

• 4th Annual Shrimpfest with Princeton Rotary: Savor delicious shrimp and more at the 4th Annual Shrimpfest on Saturday, June 7, from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM at Rotary Park. Enjoy live music, food, and fun for the whole family.

• More in Bureau County Rummage Sales: Discover hidden gems at the Bureau County Rummage Sales on June 13 and 14. The event runs all day at the Bureau County Fairgrounds, offering a variety of items from local sellers.

🌹NANCY HANKS LINCOLN: THE MOTHER WHO SHAPED A PRESIDENT

Nancy Hanks Lincoln was the mother of Abraham Lincoln, one of the most beloved and respected presidents in American history. Though she lived a short life and died when Abraham was only nine years old, her influence on him was deep and lasting.

Nancy was born around 1784 in Virginia. She grew up in a poor family but was known for being kind, hardworking, and intelligent. She married Thomas Lincoln in 1806, and they had three children: Sarah, Abraham, and a baby boy who died in infancy. The Lincolns lived a rough pioneer life, first in Kentucky and later in Indiana. Life was hard. They lived in log cabins and had to work hard just to survive.

Nancy was different from many frontier women. She could read and write, and she passed on her love of learning to young Abraham. She taught him to read the Bible and encouraged him to think deeply. Even though their family was poor and had little access to books or formal schooling, Nancy believed that knowledge and good character mattered most.

Tragically, Nancy died in 1818 when Abraham was just nine years old. She became very sick after drinking milk that had been contaminated—a sickness called “milk sickness” that killed many people at the time. Her death was a heartbreaking moment in young Abraham’s life, and it left a mark on him that would never go away.

Years later, when Abraham Lincoln was president, he often spoke about his mother with great love and respect. He once said, “All that I am, or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” Though she did not live to see her son rise to greatness, it is clear that Nancy’s early influence helped shape the man he became. Her quiet strength, faith, and encouragement to learn were the roots of his character.

Nancy Hanks Lincoln reminds us that even in the hardest of circumstances, a mother’s love and guidance can have a powerful effect. She never held a position of fame, but her life helped mold a boy who would grow up to lead a nation through its greatest trials. Her story is a beautiful reminder of the unseen but lasting power of a mother’s influence.

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👷PRINCETON JOB OPENING

• Beck’s is hiring a Car Wash District Manager responsible for overseeing multiple car wash locations, ensuring top-notch service, cleanliness, staff development, and profitability. The role involves hiring and managing car wash managers, setting company culture, enforcing accountability, and ensuring all locations meet brand standards. Candidates must be mechanically skilled, able to troubleshoot equipment issues, and understand wash systems including electrical and plumbing operations. Preferred applicants have over five years of relevant experience, strong leadership and communication skills, and demonstrate traits like honesty, humility, and responsibility. Beck’s is a 100% employee-owned company operating fuel, convenience, and car wash businesses across North-Central Illinois.

• Heartland Bank and Trust Company is seeking a full-time Relationship Banker at their Princeton, IL location. This role serves as the frontline representative of the bank, welcoming customers, delivering excellent service, and offering financial solutions. Pay ranges from $17.95 to $23.84 an hour. Responsibilities include creating a personalized customer experience, opening and servicing accounts, promoting bank products, and helping minimize fraud risks. To apply, text “2191” to (309) 322-9911.

• The Bureau County Senior Citizens Association is looking for a full-time Transportation Coordinator/Driver at their Princeton, IL location. Pay starts at $15 an hour, with a Monday–Friday, 8-hour day shift schedule. Responsibilities include safely transporting seniors, maintaining records, inspecting vehicles, and delivering outstanding customer service. Benefits include a 401(k) with matching, paid time off, and a retirement plan. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and strong knowledge of transportation safety regulations.

• The Bureau County Highway Department is accepting applications for a full-time Highway Maintainer based in Princeton, IL. This role pays $29.34 an hour and involves maintaining highways, rural roads, and rights-of-way, including patching pavement, repairing guardrails, and clearing snow or brush. Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED, a valid Illinois CDL, and experience with manual labor, truck driving, and operating heavy equipment. Benefits include dental insurance, health insurance, and a flexible spending account. Applications are accepted online or in-person at 595 Elm Place, Princeton, IL, until Thursday, April 17, 2025.

⏰LETTER FROM LORI

“Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”

This piece of wisdom hung in our home when I was growing up. I’ve already shared how different my parents were. Mom came from a “June and Ward Cleaver” existence. Her father was a hard worker but kept it to the 40 hours required of him as the VP of his division at Cardwell Westinghouse. My grandmother wore house dresses and aprons, and my mother and her two sisters would stand at the window waiting for Daddy to come home. If he was five minutes late, they’d wail and sob, certain he’d been killed in a tragic car accident—never considering he might just be stuck in suburban Chicago traffic.

My father, on the other hand, was raised in a grittier environment. His father was a truck driver, and my grandmother (all 4’10” of her) was tough as nails, ruling the house in his absence like a honey badger—sometimes to no avail. My dad learned early that hard work and long hours were the key to success.

So, when Burt Reynolds met Sally Field, their union caused some tension. Dad was constantly working and providing—and then working some more—while Mom waited not-so-patiently at the picture window. Over time, she learned not to wail and cry at his tardiness, realizing again and again that he didn’t live by the clock or a set schedule.

As children, my brother and I learned by example that ambition was essential. We both grew up to be entrepreneurial and rarely worked for “the man.” We became self-starters and problem solvers. We square up. We don’t sit down. These are admirable qualities—but balance is important.

Mom taught us that being present matters. That putting family first is the highest calling. That your children and grandchildren are a reason for existence. Fight fair. Don’t use harsh words. Always say “I love you”—just in case.

Though growing up like this often felt more confusing than being a rat in a maze—unsure if there even was cheese, much less how to find it—it gave me a good look at both sides and helped me find the middle ground. I didn’t always succeed. I veered one way or the other, embracing the teachings of either the matriarch or the patriarch. It often felt like standing in the precarious center of a teeter-totter, trying to keep the board balanced and not crash it to the ground with a deafening thud.

I’ve spent the first decades of my life making a living. My teeter-totter dipped consistently to the right but never completely hit the dirt. Lately, the balance has shifted to the left. My board is slowly lowering—not with a bang, but with a gentle descent. At that point, when family becomes everything, and I’m sitting there contemplating my Converse in the dirt, feet firmly planted, I’ll be able to dismount calmly—and exit the playground, tired but refreshed.

And I hope and pray that my absence creates an impact—as the teeter-totter slams to the ground when I leave.

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

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