🐭Mickey Mouse, a Holiday Tournament, and a Turkey Trot

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Good morning, Princeton. It’s Mickey Mouse’s Birthday today. Born on November 18, 1928, Mickey made his debut in the iconic animated short Steamboat Willie, and quickly became the face of Disney. Did you know that Mickey was almost named “Mortimer” before Walt Disney’s wife suggested “Mickey”? Now, over 90 years later, Mickey remains a beloved global icon, capturing hearts with his cheerful personality and timeless adventures.

Here we go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
🏀Holiday Tournament
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
🦅The Miracle Worker
🏈Tigers Playoff Recap
🍗Free Thanksgiving Dinner
🏀Alumni Basketball Game
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
📍Outside City Limits
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday to my dear Mother, Audrey Bullington! 🎂

• Join the Thanksgiving Day Family Turkey Trot at Zearing Park on Thursday, November 28, starting at 8 a.m. Participants can walk, jog, or run the one-mile course to kick off the holiday with a healthy activity. Registration costs $5 per individual or $10 per family for Princeton residents and $7 per individual or $12 per family for non-residents; sign up at the front desk or call 815-872-0804.

• Princeton’s Night of Lights will be held on Friday, December 6th, featuring festive activities for the whole family. The evening begins with a Christmas Tree Lighting at Veterans Park at 5:45 p.m., followed by the Lighted Christmas Parade down Main Street at 6:15 p.m. After the parade, families can enjoy a Candy Cane Hunt at Soldiers & Sailors Park at 7:00 p.m. and visit Santa, Mrs. Claus, and live reindeer at Rotary Park starting at 7:30 p.m.

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🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

For Sale By Owner - Now making appointment to view our "Move in Ready" home in quiet subdivision in Princeton. Home is a 4 bedroom/2 bath split level on a corner lot. Lots of new: Roof, flooring, SS appliances, bath vanities, painted throughout. Large lower level family room, bedroom, bath and laundry. Call 815-739-6842 to make an appointment to view 624 Aleta, Bird Haven South Subdivision. $185,000.

• Priced at $357,500, this home is located in The Villas, a 55+ community, and is designed to evoke a lakeside lodge feel with tall, vaulted ceilings and open living spaces. The 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath property features large picture windows with views of a nearby pond, extra-wide hallways, and grab bars in bathrooms for enhanced accessibility. The original Mitchell floor plan has been expanded to include an office and additional living space. The kitchen boasts a large island, perfect for gathering, and there is a cozy fireplace in the living room. The laundry room includes an extra half bath adjacent to the spacious two-car garage. HOA fees cover access to the Bounce Back gym at Liberty Village, as well as lawn care and snow removal.

• This stunning property, listed at $394,000, offers 5 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms in a desirable neighborhood with horse privileges. Nestled in Bureau County, this spacious home combines the charm of country living with easy access to nearby amenities. Featuring two master suites—one on the main level and one on the second floor—along with three additional bedrooms, this home is perfect for a large family or those who love extra space. The main level includes a beautifully remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops, a cozy family room with a wood-burning fireplace, and a formal dining area. Outdoors, you’ll find a fenced backyard with large trees providing plenty of shade, and a spacious 3-car garage. The partially finished basement includes an entertainment area, laundry, a full bathroom, and ample storage. Additional features include a 30 ft by 40 ft barn with horse stalls and gas heat, a Culligan water system, and more.

🏀PHS GIRLS BASKETBALL SCHEDULE

🏀 Monday, Nov 18

• FS: @ Mendota, 6:00 PM (Dismiss 4:45 PM)

• Varsity: vs. Henry, 8:00 PM, PHS Prouty Gym

🏀 Tuesday, Nov 19

• FS: @ Mendota vs. Hall, 6:00 PM (Dismiss 4:45 PM)

• Varsity: vs. Putnam County, 8:00 PM, PHS Prouty Gym

🏀 Wednesday, Nov 20

• Varsity: Tournament, 5:00 PM, PHS Prouty Gym

🏀 Thursday, Nov 21

• Varsity: Tournament, 5:00 PM, PHS Prouty GyM

🏀 Friday, Nov 22

• Varsity: Tournament, 5:00 PM, PHS Prouty Gym

🏀 Saturday, Nov 23

• FS: Tournament vs. TBD, Time TBD, PHS Prouty Gym

• Varsity: Tournament vs. TBD, Time TBD, PHS Prouty Gym

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌧️Today: Periods of rain are expected throughout the day with a high near 62°F. Winds will be from the ESE at 15 to 25 mph, and rain chances are at 100%, with rainfall around half an inch. Monday night will continue with rain and gusty winds, with a low of 54°F. Winds will increase to SSE at 20 to 30 mph, and rain chances remain high at 100%, potentially adding another half-inch.

☁️Tuesday: The day will be mostly cloudy, reaching a high of 59°F. Winds will come from the WSW at 15 to 25 mph, bringing a breezy feel. Tuesday night will see partly to mostly cloudy skies, with a low of 37°F. Winds will shift to the WNW at 10 to 15 mph, keeping temperatures cool overnight.

🌧️Wednesday: Expect an overcast day with a few showers, as the high reaches 45°F. Winds will be strong from the W at 15 to 25 mph, with occasional gusts over 40 mph. The night will remain cloudy, with a low near 30°F. Winds will stay steady from the WNW at 10 to 20 mph, making for a chilly evening.

Cold Front Brings Rain, Wind, and Winter-Like Temperatures

A significant rain event is expected on Monday, with widespread precipitation moving into the region by the afternoon. This will bring much-needed water, with rain lasting through the evening. Temperatures will rise during the day, with gusty winds up to 30 mph. By Tuesday morning, rainfall totals could range from half an inch to over an inch in some spots. A cold front will move through on Tuesday, dropping temperatures significantly. Wednesday will see colder air settle in, holding temperatures around 40°F. Some areas may experience a mix of rain and light snow as the week progresses. Cooler temperatures are expected to remain closer to seasonal norms through the end of the month, providing a taste of winter.

Adapted from tswails.com

⛽️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

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Optimal Health promotes Pacific Foods’ new organic condensed soups, featuring Cream of Celery and Cream of Roasted Garlic & Herb, as a way to elevate Thanksgiving meals.

• Grandma Rosie’s Sweet Treats will be open from 11 AM to 1 PM on Thanksgiving Day, offering complimentary Thanksgiving sides. The exact dishes are not confirmed, but they plan to serve items like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and a protein. The event is open to anyone, especially those without a place to go for the holiday, to come and spend time in good company.

• Tailholt Trading Post has added a new collection of beautiful Lefton pieces, including holiday-themed dishes and mugs. These items are now available for customers to explore.

• Corner Chair Market showcases a variety of items on their shelves, including books, decor, and storage options perfect for holiday gifts. They encourage visits to see these unique items and show support for local teams, the Amboy Clippers and Princeton Tigers.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream is running a contest to celebrate the upcoming Wicked movie premiere. New flavors inspired by the movie will be released next week. Customers can guess the flavors in the comments for a chance to win two tickets to the premiere at the Apollo Theater in Princeton on November 21st at 7:15 PM. The contest ends tonight, with the winner announced on Tuesday.

• Scooter’s Coffee is offering double rewards on their app on November 18th. Customers are reminded to “Scoot On Around” and enjoy the promotion.

• Princeton Public Library is holding a raffle for a 70-inch Sharp Aquos TV, identical to the one in their Library Cafe. Tickets are $5 each, available at the Circulation Desk, with the drawing scheduled for December 6. The winner is responsible for transporting and securing the TV.

• Four Seasons in Princeton is offering a 26% discount on all purchases with the code “SHOPPING” until November 24, 2024. Free shipping is included on orders over $75, with certain exclusions applied.

• Once Upon A Craft invites everyone to a paint party on Thursday, November 21st, from 5-7 PM. Participants can choose from various layered designs, making it easy for all ages to create beautiful painted pieces. Reservations are encouraged.

• Wild Honey Boutique offers Poppy & Pout gift sets, which include moisturizing lip balm and a lip scrub duo. Individual lip balms are also available. The shop is open from 12-4 today.

• Johnsons Carpet Shoppe showcases custom showers and renovated bathrooms, highlighting how these transformations bring happiness to homeowners.

• Little Blue Dress invites customers to shop their fall favorites. The store is open on Sundays from 12:00 to 4:00 PM and operates seven days a week.

• The Cliff Restaurant will be opening this Friday, November 22! More details will be announced soon, so stay tuned!

• Play It Forward Counseling is seeking a licensed clinician to join their team. Interested candidates can find more information at playitforwardcounseling.com and submit resumes to [email protected]. This opportunity promotes healing through play-based therapy.

• Second Story Teen Center is nearing its $600,000 goal to expand their facility, providing much-needed space for teens in Bureau County. Your end-of-year gift can make a difference in opening new doors for local youth.

• Sean Philip Bridals is offering deals on sample wedding gowns ($99-$999), prom dresses ($69), homecoming gowns ($39), and evening gowns ($69) until December 1.

• Grandma Rosie’s Sweet Treats now offers a kids menu with every meal priced at $7, including options like cheeseburgers, hot dogs, BBQ, and chicken strips. Each meal comes with hand-cut fries and a single topping sundae or cone.

• Sayler’s General Store is having a closing down sale with everything marked to go.

• Save the date for Flowers by Julia’s Christmas Open House from November 22-24! Enjoy festive shopping hours on Friday (8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.), Saturday (8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.), and Sunday (12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.).

• Mardog’s Grooming Room is excited to announce its grand opening. Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., they offer a variety of grooming services from baths to full grooming packages tailored for all dog sizes. Customers are invited to enjoy exclusive opening-day discounts, giveaways, and treats; for more information, call (563) 239-4899.

🦅THE MIRACLE WORKER BY PRINCETON CHRISTIAN ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL

The Princeton Christian Academy high school students will present Willam Gibson’s THE MIRACLE WORKER on Friday, November 22 and Saturday, November 23 at 6:30 in the auditorium. The play is the story of how 20-year-old Annie Sullivan miraculously opened the dark world of 7-year-old blind and deaf Helen Keller by teaching her language. Ava Clausen plays the role of Annie Sullivan, and Helen is played by Miriam Bayer. 

Helen’s parents, Captain and Kate Keller are played by Josiah Gale and Brooke Clausen, and her half brother James is played by David Lunger. Aunt Ev is Abigail Freeman, the doctor is Jeremiah Bauer, Viney is Amelia Baker, and children are played by Annalise Baker, Lily Bullington, and Presleigh Morrissey. The play is directed by Marty Kiser. 

The public is invited to these performances to see “the miracle” performed.  A free-will offering will be taken, but no admission will be charged.  Princeton Christian Academy is located two miles northeast of Princeton on US Highway 34 at Princeton Bible Church.

TWO ANGELS EVENTS

Family Christmas Portraits

• Cozy Christmas: Snuggle up in your pajamas and enjoy a festive atmosphere with our warm, inviting backdrop.

• Elegant Holiday: Dress to impress and create stunning portraits in front of our Farm Fresh Christmas Tree backdrop.

• Packages starting at $125

Santa’s Magical Adventure with Santa John (Original Santa for returning clients)

• One-on-one time with Santa: Your children will have the chance to chat with Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and receive a gift.

• Story time with Santa: Snuggle up with Santa and enjoy a heartwarming Christmas story together.

• Cookies: No Santa visit is complete without Mrs.Clauses delicious cookies.

• Beautiful, lasting images: Our experienced photographer will capture precious moments of your children's magical Santa experience.

• More than just photos, it's a tradition!

• 30 minutes —$325

🏈TIGERS PLAYOFF GAME RECAP

The Tigers and Broncos faced off in a thrilling game filled with momentum shifts. Both teams exchanged early fumbles, but the Tigers capitalized on a Broncos turnover at the 2-yard line, with Green picking up two yards for breathing room. Junior backup quarterback Gavin Lanham took charge for the Tigers, stepping in due to an injury to senior Will Lott. The Broncos struck first with 4:23 left in the first quarter, connecting on a 25-yard touchdown pass to D’Anca for a 7-0 lead. The Tigers responded with an impressive seven-play, 72-yard drive, tying the game 7-7 with 1:12 remaining in the first half on a 50-yard touchdown pass from Lanham, followed by a PAT by Morris.

As time expired in the first half, the Broncos reclaimed the lead with a 21-yard touchdown pass from Abrams to Florio, making it 14-7. In the third quarter, Arthur Burden made a critical play by stopping Montini’s fourth-down attempt with 4:18 left, but the Broncos extended their lead to 17-7 with a 27-yard field goal with 9:06 left in the fourth. Peterson added a 14-yard touchdown run with 2:30 remaining, and the Broncos took a commanding 24-7 lead. Injuries impacted the Tigers’ lineup, including an injury to Gibson during his touchdown reception, sidelining him for the day. Despite their efforts, the Tigers couldn’t overcome the Broncos’ relentless offense, who advanced to the next round with a balanced and powerful performance.

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🍗FREE THANKSGIVING DINNER

The Evangelical Covenant Church in Princeton along with St. Louis Catholic Church and Christ Community Church will be providing a Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 28^th from 11:00 – 1:00 pm.  There will be no dine-in option this year.  The meal consists of turkey, mash potatoes and gravy, stuffing, green beans, dinner roll, and your choice of apple or pumpkin pie.  

 Reservations are required.  Meals will be available for curbside pick-up at the Evangelical Covenant Church located at 24 N. Main St. in Princeton or delivered to your home within a 15-mile radius of Princeton.

 This is our 24^th year in providing a free Thanksgiving Dinner to anyone who wishes to have a meal.  To register for a meal, curbside or delivery, visit www.eccprinceton.org/Thanksgiving or call Tad Smith at 815-878-5473 by 5pm on November 27^th .  A free-will offering will be taken and will other local outreach events.

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Ace Hardware is hiring a full-time Warehouse Specialist with a pay range of $19.00 to $21.50 per hour. Responsibilities include receiving, stocking, order filling, and shipping, utilizing tools such as forklifts, RF scanners, and voice collect headsets. The role requires a focus on safety and productivity, aligning with Ace’s values of Winning, Excellence, Love, Integrity, Gratitude, Humility, and Teamwork (W.E.L.I.G.H.T). Benefits include weekly pay, performance incentives, and paid time off, covering vacation, sick time, and holiday pay. Ace promotes a supportive work environment, emphasizing employee safety and injury prevention. Candidates with an interest in creating a positive and efficient workplace culture are encouraged to apply.

• Zearing Child Enrichment Center is hiring temporary Child Care Teachers at $15-$17 per hour to cover maternity leaves, with potential for a permanent role. The position involves engaging with infants, toddlers, or preschool children, supporting their growth and development through planned activities. Candidates should be passionate about fostering children’s social and developmental skills. The role requires a high school diploma or equivalent and offers benefits like 401(k), health insurance, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement. The schedule includes 8-hour day shifts from Monday to Friday. Applications are open for full-time, part-time, or temporary placements.

• Heartland Bank and Trust Company is seeking a full-time Retail Assistant Manager, offering a wage range of $22.15 to $33.23 per hour. This role supports branch compliance with policies, procedures, and regulations, while also assisting Retail Managers in achieving business goals. Responsibilities include ensuring high standards in customer service, compliance, and operational efficiency. Physical requirements involve standing, walking, and occasionally lifting up to 30 pounds. A competitive benefits package, including vacation and paid time off, is provided. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply to join this essential retail team.

• Shell in Princeton is hiring a full-time Store Manager with a salary starting at $58,656 per year. The role involves overseeing daily store operations, including scheduling, training, and supervising employees. Key responsibilities include managing inventory, controlling expenses, and ensuring excellent customer service. The Store Manager will also promote Shell’s rewards and marketing programs, maintain a clean and safe store environment, and handle cash management. The ideal candidate should be committed to fostering a positive work environment, ensuring compliance with company policies, and driving continuous improvement. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply for this leadership position.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

Walk Tiskilwa

The Tiskilwa Historical Society invites everyone to join the festivities at the Christmas Markets in Tiskilwa on Saturday, December 7th, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Attendees can explore local history displays, visit a variety of vendors, and meet Santa Claus. The event will also feature live music, decorated Christmas trees, carriage rides, tours, and opportunities to participate in drawings and raffles. This is a perfect way to kick off the holiday season.

Blue Christmas Event

Sometimes “Merry Christmas” is just not so merry.

You or someone you know may struggle with finding joy this Christmas, because of a recent change or loss due to death, divorce, sickness, or unfortunate and tragic circumstances. The constant refrain on the radio and television, in the shopping malls and churches, about the happiness of the season, about getting together with family and friends, reminds many people of what they have lost. The anguish of broken relationships, the insecurity of unemployment, the weariness of ill health, the pain of isolation - all of these can make us feel very empty in the midst of celebrating and spending. Adding to this blue mood is the darkest day of the year, the winter solstice, which falls on December 21st of 2024.

The Cornerstone Community Wellness Center is offering a Blue Christmas Candlelight Community Service on December 6th, 2024 at 6:30 pm. All are welcome and encouraged to bring a friend.

Come experience a simple time of music, readings, and reflection that acknowledge Emmanuel, God with us, in the midst of hard times. You might be surprised by how many people need this kind of service during the season of Christmas.

The short service will be followed by a brief time of light refreshments and fellowship.

🏀BUREAU VALLEY VS PRINCETON HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI BASKETBALL GAME

Bureau Valley and Princeton will face off in an alumni basketball game on Sunday, December 22, 2024. Doors open at 3:00 PM, and the game tips off at 3:30 PM at Bureau Valley High School. Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for students, and $12 for family tickets. The game will feature four 10-minute quarters with a mix of alumni teams, including special lineups for women and older alumni.

The first quarter will showcase alumni aged 40 and older, while the second quarter will feature the women’s alumni team. In the third quarter, alumni aged 21 and older will play, and the fourth quarter will be open to any alumni able to continue. Additional fun activities include a free throw contest at the end of the first quarter, and a three-point contest at the end of the third quarter.

At halftime, alumni cheer and dance teams will perform school songs, bringing spirit to the event. The game aims to celebrate the 29-year rivalry between Bureau Valley and Princeton, marking a historic event for the alumni and community. Following the game, a post-game party will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Rossy’s in Wyanet.

All proceeds from admission, raffle, and merchandise sales will support the Bureau Valley and Princeton Sports Boosters.

🍿AT THE APOLLO

Red One (PG-13)

• An action-comedy holiday adventure starring Dwayne Johnson and Chris Evans, blending festive spirit with thrilling action.

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

• Thursday: 4:15 PM only

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (PG)

• A holiday classic about a chaotic but heartwarming Christmas pageant performed by a group of kids.

• Showtimes: Tuesday & Wednesday: 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM

• Thursday: 4:30 PM only (Last show)

Wicked (PG-13)

• A retelling of the story of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda, exploring the land of Oz before Dorothy’s arrival.

• Premiere: Thursday 7:15 PM

Tickets are available at apolloprinceton.com or at the box office.

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