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Good morning, Princeton friends. Mickey Mouse made his debut in the 1928 short film Steamboat Willie on November 18, a date fans around the globe have celebrated as his birthday ever since. What began as a simple black-and-white cartoon quickly grew into a worldwide symbol of joy, optimism, and wonder. And really…who doesn’t love Mickey? He’s the mouse that made the world smile.

Let’s move.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
🎅The Christmas Walk
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
💼Princeton Businesses
💭Remembering Princeton
👷Princeton Job Openings
✨The Magic of Christmas
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Audrey Bullington!🎂

• BCR: Students from Logan Junior High and Princeton High School — including Elyssa Carlson, Kiera VandeVenter, Matthew Yepsen, Lincoln Frost, Bianka Nickelsen, Joel Odell, and many others — were selected for the ILMEA District 2 festival after submitting video auditions. They spent the day rehearsing under guest directors before performing in the evening concert.

• Princeton’s Payton Frueh Finished 139th at Class 1A Illinois State Cross Country Meet

• Arukah Institute of Healing announced a Thanksgiving meal offered early for those unhoused or struggling during the holidays. The free meal will be served November 25 from 12–4 p.m. at 1916 N. Main St. in Princeton.

• Princeton Churches Host Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner on November 27, 2025, Reserve by November 26th

• Reindeer Feed Store Brings Holiday Fun to Princeton Christmas Walk on November 22 and 23, 2025

• Open Prairie UCC will host its annual Christkindlmarkt on Saturday, November 22, from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 25 E Marion Street, behind the Apollo Theater. The festive market will feature international cookies, homemade candies, children’s crafts, and a variety of local vendors. A traditional German lunch will be served beginning at 11 a.m., and admission is free.

• The Prairie Arts Council is hosting Handmade for the Holidays, an artisan market featuring ceramics, woodworking, fine art, prints, photography, baked goods, and more. The market will be open during Christmas Walk weekend on November 22 (10–3) and November 23 (12–4) at the Prairie Arts Center.

• Douglas Elementary is hiring a paraprofessional for the 2025–2026 school year. The position includes assisting teachers and students in daily classroom activities.

• The annual Christmas Tree Lighting will be held Friday, December 5 at 6:00 PM, followed by the lighted parade, a Candy Cane Hunt, and a chance for kids to visit with Santa.

• Bureau County Sheriff Arrest and Citation Report November 7, 2025

📍Outside City Limits

• Sticks & Bricks in Tiskilwa added Garlic Parm Nuggets to the menu. They’re open Tuesday from 5–8 p.m. for dine-in or carry-out orders.

• Tiskilwa will host its annual “Walk Tiskilwa’s Christmas Market” on Saturday, December 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The festive event will feature more than 20 vendors, horse-drawn carriage rides, and live music by AMC Sound. Guests can also enjoy treats from Mr. Cinnamon, visit with Santa Claus, and meet alpacas on the lawn of the Tiskilwa Inn. At 11:30 a.m., Main Street will come alive with a special and entertaining performance by The Mistletoe Misfits—a highlight you won’t want to miss.

• At about 2 o'clock Saturday afternoon, the Lacon-Sparland Fire Protection District was called to a timber fire.

• Amboy headed back to the I8FA championship game after knocking off Milledgeville

• A proposal by OSF Healthcare to shift some health services from Ottawa to Peru comes before the Illinois Health Facility and Services Board this Tuesday in Bolingbrook.

• Illinois SNAP Benefits Restored After Federal Shutdown

• Illinois Expands Library Funding to Support More Communities and Residents

• WLPO reported that the FAA is lifting restrictions on commercial flights at 40 major airports after the long government shutdown. Airlines resumed normal schedules yesterday.

🎅THE PRINCETON CHRISTMAS WALK

Experience Princeton’s Christmas Walk is happening November 21–23, and the entire community is inviting you to enjoy three festive days filled with charm, tradition, and holiday cheer. From horse-drawn carriage rides to glowing window displays, every corner of town offers something magical for families, friends, and visitors. Stroll along Main Street, sip hot chocolate, listen to carolers, and discover one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts while supporting local shops and churches. With special treats, live music, and plenty of opportunities for kids to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, this beloved event captures everything people love about Christmas in Princeton.

Guests can enjoy classic holiday activities, explore handmade goods, and create joyful memories all throughout town. Whether you’re riding the free trolley, warming up by a cozy fire with hot chocolate, or popping into beautifully decorated stores, you’ll find something memorable at every stop. Gather your loved ones, bundle up, and make Princeton your holiday destination this year!

Highlights include:

• Horse-drawn carriage rides sponsored by Heartland Bank

• Christkindl Markt at Open Prairie Church

• Beautiful Christmas window displays

• Free trolley rides on historic Main Street

• Visits with Santa & Mrs. Claus

• Hot chocolate and cookies at New Hope Church

• Handmade gifts at Prairie Arts Center

• Complimentary popcorn from the Lions Club and Silent Night Singing at PHS Choir House

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This $35,000 move-in-ready mobile home at 2003 Maple Acres Dr, Princeton, IL 61356 features 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, and a bright living room with updated windows that provide excellent natural light. The home has been recently remodeled with new carpet, paint, furnace, and air conditioning, and the kitchen offers generous cabinet space with attractive glass details. All appliances stay, and the property includes an easy-access laundry area, a 6×8 porch, and a large outdoor storage shed. Lot rent covers garbage, water, and sewer, and all buyers must obtain park approval.

• This $220,000 fully renovated home at 14370 1600 East St, Princeton, IL 61356 offers 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,700 sq ft of move-in-ready living space on a 0.25-acre lot. The home features extensive upgrades throughout, including fresh paint, new flooring, new trim, new carpet upstairs, refinished kitchen cabinets and countertops, and all-new stainless steel appliances plus a new washer and dryer. Both bathrooms have been completely updated with new fixtures, flooring, lighting, and finishes, while the lower level includes new ceiling tiles, lighting, trim, and flooring. Additional improvements include a replaced water heater, improved landscaping with decorative rock and mulch, and two newly painted decks ideal for relaxing or entertaining.

• This $120,000 home at 1007 W Farnham St, Princeton, IL 61356 offers 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and 1,610 sq ft on nearly half an acre with a fenced yard, a two-car detached garage, and an additional storage shed. It includes a den/office that could serve as a fourth bedroom, along with built-ins and well-sized bedrooms for ample storage. Recent updates feature a new roof (2023), exterior paint (2022), a new water heater (2021), and updated windows throughout most of the home. The property also offers raspberries, a cherry tree, a plum tree, and plenty of off-street parking via a long driveway.

• This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home at 15 S. Vernon St. in Princeton is listed for $195,000 and offers 1,586 square feet of living space. Built in 1891, the house features hardwood flooring, pocket doors, a formal dining room, and a large kitchen with a mobile island and modern appliances. Recent updates include a new roof (2024), remodeled kitchen and laundry area, vinyl flooring, attic insulation, new windows, an upgraded electrical breaker box, fresh paint, and new light fixtures. The large walk-in closet once served as a fourth bedroom, providing flexible space for families. A spacious basement with tall ceilings offers storage and workshop potential, while a concrete deck off the kitchen creates an inviting spot for outdoor relaxation.

• This 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch at 815 W Hudson St was built in 2008 and offers 1,799 square feet of living space on an 8,886 sq. ft. lot. It features vaulted ceilings, a cozy fireplace, a main floor laundry, and both an open front porch and rear deck for outdoor enjoyment. The home includes a two-car attached garage and a full unfinished basement with plumbing for an additional bathroom, providing room to expand. Move-in ready but with room for updates, it combines modern layout, curb appeal, and long-term potential at a listed price of $242,000.

🛍️BUDDY BAGS

This year’s Buddy bag program is in full swing with 142 children currently participating in our program.

As everyone is aware groceries are high and the need is great. We are reaching out to businesses, organizations and residents as we approach the holidays for any and all support/donations to the buddybag program.  Our new location is behind Johnson's Carpet in white bldg with our Buddy Bag sign at the door. We meet at 430 to set up and pack at 5 on Wednesday evening. Visitors and extra help always welcome.

Thank you!

Contacts

Mark Frank: 8158767295

Diane Heller: 8153262671

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌥 Tuesday:  Cloudy and cool with a high near 48°F. A stray sprinkle can’t be ruled out, but most of the day looks dry. Winds ENE 10–15 mph keep it feeling raw. Tonight turns mostly cloudy, low ~38°F, light ENE 5–10 mph breeze.

☁️ Wednesday: Overcast to mostly cloudy with limited sun and a high around 52°F. Winds trend NE 5–10 mph—light but persistent. Very little, if any, precipitation expected. Evening stays partly to mostly cloudy, low ~40°F, winds light/variable.

🌦️ Thursday: A gray, cooler day with periods of showers, greatest in the afternoon. High near 57°F with a WSW 5–10 mph breeze. Have the rain jacket handy for on-and-off light rain. Night: a few showers linger, low ~38°F, winds NNW 5–10 mph.

🌧️ Friday: Showers early, then decreasing to spotty/light by afternoon; high around 52°F. Expect a damp, cool feel with winds NNE 5–10 mph. Rain chance about 40%, mainly first half of the day. Evening clouds thin late with a colder low near 30°F.

🌤️ Saturday: Brighter with sun and clouds mixed; seasonably cool high near 50°F. Light W 5–10 mph wind. Outdoor plans look good and dry. Night turns partly cloudy, low ~33°F, light WNW breeze.

🌥️ Sunday: Mildest of the stretch—sun/cloud mix and a high around 59°F. Light WSW 5–10 mph winds. Great day to be outside with dry conditions. Evening becomes partly cloudy, low ~32°F, light W to WNW breeze.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.14
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.14
Casey’s West/North: $3.17
Beck’s West/North: $3.17
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.15
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.17

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🎤 Saturdays, November 22, November 29 & December 6: Karaoke Night – Grab the mic and show off your vocals at Downtown Pub’s weekly karaoke night, with music, laughter, and great drinks. Downtown Pub & Event Center, 432 S Main St. 9 PM.

🎄 Sunday, November 23: Reindeer Feed Store – Hosted by Bureau County Ag in the Classroom. Kids can learn what Santa’s reindeer eat and make their own feed bag to take home. Free family event. Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce, 435 S Main St. 11 AM–2 PM.

🎸 Saturday, November 29: The Wise Guys at the Hawg House – Enjoy an afternoon of live music and good times with The Wise Guys. Hawg House Saloon, 18066 US Hwy 6. 3 PM.

🐴 Sunday, November 30: A Christmas Carol: The Ghosts of Christmas – Dickens’ classic story performed as a “live radio show” with audience participation, laughs, and sound effects. Venue 450, 450 S Main St. 2:30 PM.

🍊 Monday, December 1: Fresh Florida Citrus Stop – PRINceton – Stock up on fresh Florida grapefruit, satsumas and more using Tree-Ripe’s simple reservation system, then pick up your order at the truck. Princeton Moose Lodge, 1339 N Euclid Ave. 3–4:30 PM.

🎶 Saturday, December 6: Festival 56 Sound Stage Presents UpByN00n – A night of high-energy music and storytelling from this creative group exploring life and the digital age. Tickets $15. 316 S Main St. 7 PM.

🎻 Saturday, December 6: Fiddlerock! at Coal Creek Brewing Company – Enjoy rock, country, pop, metal, and festive Trans-Siberian Orchestra favorites, all reimagined on violin. Coal Creek Brewing Company, 430 South Main St. 6 PM.

🎅 Saturday, December 6: Walk Tiskilwa – Visit Santa, shop the Bake Sale, and browse rugs, knives, pot holders, and dish cloths for sale. Hosted by Tiskilwa Community Church, 145 W Main St, Tiskilwa. 10 AM–1 PM.

🍽️ Monday, December 15: Freezer Meals Fundraiser Pickup – Order a box of 10 frozen meals (five varieties, two of each) for $100 to support Bureau County Farm Bureau Ag in the Classroom, then swing by to pick up your sealed box. Bureau County Farm Bureau, 1407 North Main St. 3–4:30 PM (pre-registration and payment required by November 24).

♟️ Wednesdays, 5:30–7:30 PM: Princeton Public Library Chess Club – Join in for casual chess games and friendly competition, with coaching available for those who want to learn. All are welcome. Princeton Public Library, 698 E Peru St.

🎸 Wednesday, December 31: Wild Card at Hawg House – Ring in the New Year early with day drinks and live music at Hawg House Saloon, 18066 US Hwy 6. 3–7 PM.

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💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Optimal Health reminded customers that they sell a full range of groceries in addition to supplements. They’re also giving away a $50 gift certificate to someone who likes, shares, and comments on their original post.

• Rachel Rene brought back their popular Vanilla Spice blend for the holiday season, featuring warm French vanilla and freshly ground cinnamon. Shoppers can earn double reward points this weekend both online and in-store.

• Shane’s Shine Shop encouraged customers to schedule a vehicle cleaning before the holidays. They invited people to call, stop by, or message the shop to get their car shining and protected.

• The Studio Boutique highlighted a cozy sweater as a great pick for chilly days. They’re open Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. and offer online shopping anytime.

• Corner Chair Market promoted gift ideas for outdoor lovers, including ornaments, wall art, and themed books. They encouraged shoppers to stop in and explore their selection.

• Little Blue Dress featured their “Be Merry & Bright” holiday sweater for $42, available in sizes small to large. Shoppers can purchase it in-store or online through their website link.

• Cows Coffee shared their weekly schedule, with stops in Walnut on Wednesday, Prophetstown on Friday, and the Princeton Christmas Walk on Saturday. They’ll be serving from early morning through mid-day depending on the location.

• The Knack announced a Winter Wishes Sip & Paint class where Hannah will guide painters step-by-step through a holiday acrylic scene. Tickets are $35, must be purchased before November 25, and participants can bring their own drinks and snacks.

• Friends of Strays extended their Home for the Holiday event to Thursday, November 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Adoption fees are still waived, and the first four adopters will receive an Amazon gift card along with food and toys.

• Meadows Home Decor announced their Christmas Open House for November 21–23 with extended shopping hours all weekend. Guests can browse seasonal décor and gifts at 501 South Main Street.

• Little Blue Dress shared day two of their 12 Days of Christmas gift ideas, featuring cozy Birkenstock socks for $18.95. They encouraged shoppers to grab a pair as a stocking stuffer or to match with new Birks.

• Rossy’s BBQ Joint made their popular Brisket Melt a permanent menu item after high demand. The sandwich features slow-smoked brisket, provolone, caramelized onions, and Texas toast.

• Philly Factory will be serving cheesesteaks on Tuesday, November 18, from 4–7 p.m. They’ll be parked at 15 West Marquette behind Barrel Society.

• Monical’s Pizza is offering a free five-pack of breadsticks with the purchase of a $25 gift card. The free breadstick card is valid January through February of 2026 for traditional gift cards only.

• Cafe Grace shared this week’s specials, including daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner options like cheeseburgers, wraps, turkey clubs, and chicken Alfredo. They’re open throughout the week at 1009 Main Street with varied hours.

• Boek-el-Zoo announced that Santa Claus will visit the store on Saturday, December 6, from 12–3 p.m. Pet owners are invited to bring their well-behaved animals to take festive photos with Old Saint Nick.

• Pin Splitter Lanes is hosting its November One Ball Tournament on Saturday, November 22. The event includes five games for a $40 entry fee, with leagues and cosmic bowling continuing throughout the month.

• 2nd Hand Ranch & Rescue is offering new holiday postcards with red envelopes, priced at 10 for $5 or 25 for $10. Cards will also be available at the ranch’s open house on December 6 from 12–4 p.m.

• Rustique Hair Studio is supporting the Bureau County Christmas for Kids initiative beginning November 11. Donors who bring in a new toy or teen-appropriate gift will receive a sample-size Pureology shampoo and conditioner.

• Monica’s Pizza is offering several limited-time deals through November 23, including a $26 Family Pleaser meal, a 14” three-topping pizza for $18.50, and an 8” pizza for $8. A free 5-pack of breadsticks is available with a $25 gift card purchase, and frozen soft dough breadsticks are now available for $5.49.

• Cafe Grace shared this week’s specials, featuring daily lunch and dinner options like cheeseburger baskets, chicken bacon ranch wraps, turkey club with soup, and chicken & mushroom Alfredo. They’re open Tuesday–Thursday 11–2, Friday & Saturday 11–2 and 4–8, and Sunday 8–2 at 1009 Main St., Princeton. Cafe Grace is also offering full Thanksgiving meal packages for pickup on Wednesday, November 26, with orders due by November 23. Customers can choose from meal sizes and desserts for easy reheating at home.

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💭REMEMBERING IN PRINCETON

👷PRINCETON JOB OPENINGS

• Orkin is hiring a full-time Account Executive for its Princeton, Illinois location, offering a competitive salary range of $80,000 to $100,000 per year. The role centers on sales within the pest-control industry, giving candidates the advantage of representing a trusted brand with nearly 125 years of experience and award-winning training. As an Orkin Termite Sales Inspector, you’ll provide homeowners with top-quality protection and peace of mind while developing strong sales skills and contributing to a high-performing team. This position also offers opportunities for career growth, leadership pathways, and recognition for top performers.

• Scooter’s Coffee is hiring an Assistant Store Manager for its Princeton, Illinois location, offering candidates the opportunity to join one of the fastest-growing specialty coffee brands in the country. The company emphasizes simplicity, handcrafted products made with sustainably sourced ingredients, and creating memorable customer experiences rooted in integrity, love, humility, and courage. Applicants will be employed by a local franchisee, meaning wages, benefits, and specific employment terms may vary. Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Omaha, Scooter’s Coffee has built a strong brand through meaningful relationships with farmers, employees, franchisees, and customers.

• Dover Bible Church in Dover, Illinois, is seeking a full-time Pastor to lead and shepherd a congregation of about 30 members. The church, affiliated with the Christian & Missionary Alliance, desires a pastor dedicated to preaching the Gospel, fostering spiritual growth, developing community relationships, and guiding future ministry vision. Compensation includes a total package of $63,600, with salary, health account, and expense allowance, along with a parsonage provided.

• O’Reilly Auto Parts in Princeton, Illinois, is hiring a full-time Parts Specialist with pay ranging from $15–$20 per hour, plus potential bonuses and performance premiums. The position focuses on providing exceptional service to retail and installer customers while supporting store management in daily operations. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, retirement, and paid time off, with bilingual applicants encouraged to apply.

• Corteva Agriscience in Princeton, Illinois, is hiring a full-time Production Technician with an annual salary range of $40,080–$50,100, including medical, retirement, and PTO benefits. The role involves operating and monitoring automated equipment, performing harvest and plant operations, conducting quality control and field management activities, and maintaining warehouse functions. Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED (or be willing to obtain one within 12 months) and possess strong work ethic, time management, and teamwork skills.

✨THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS

The Prairie Arts Council is bringing back The Magic of Christmas for the first time since 2019—a heartwarming community theater children’s musical written and directed by Rachel Gorenz-Johnson. Families are invited to enjoy a festive, joy-filled performance that celebrates the wonder of the season with music, story, and talented young local actors. Performances will be held at the Prairie Arts Center, offering a cozy holiday atmosphere that’s perfect for kicking off December. With affordable ticket prices and multiple showtimes, it’s a great opportunity for parents, grandparents, and kids to experience live Christmas theater together.

This year’s production is supported in part by grants from the Illinois Arts Council and the Princeton Closet. Tickets can be purchased by calling the number provided, and seating is expected to fill quickly. Gather your loved ones, step into the warmth of community arts, and let this charming musical become part of your holiday tradition. The Magic of Christmas promises an evening (or afternoon) of smiles, music, and festive storytelling.

• Performances: December 5 & 6 at 7 p.m. | December 7 at 2 p.m.

• Location: Prairie Arts Center, 24 Park Avenue East, Princeton, IL

• Tickets: Adults $15 • Children $10

• To purchase: Call (719) 290-0954

🍿AT THE APOLLO

🎶Wicked: For Good (PG-13)

The definitive cinematic re-telling of the acclaimed Broadway musical, following the untold story of Elphaba and Glinda before Dorothy’s arrival in Oz — full of dazzling song, friendship, betrayal, and redemption.

• Premiere: Thursday at 6:00 pm

🎩Now You See Me – Now You Don’t

A high‐octane heist thriller where a team of illusionists pull off impossible crimes and turn the tables on law enforcement — but when the lines blur between magic and reality, nobody knows who’s really controlling the show.

• Tuesday–Thursday: 4:15 pm & 7:00 pm

🛢Sarah’s Oil (PG)

Inspired by the extraordinary true story of 11-year-old Sarah Rector, who strikes oil on her land in early-1900s Oklahoma and becomes one of the wealthiest black women in America — a powerful tale of faith, resilience, and fortune.

• Tuesday–Wednesday (Last Day!): 4:30 pm & 7:15 pm

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].