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Good morning! B-E-A-UTIFUL are days ahead, my fellow citizens. I’ve given you plenty of things to do in this newsletter, so no excuses!

Let’s rock.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅For Your To-Do List
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏷️Local Sale
💼Princeton Businesses
⛪️Princeton Churches
⚠️Outdoor Warning System FAQS
📍Outside City Limits
🎡At The Fairgrounds

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Alice Brady and Garrett Youngren!🎈

• Starved Rock Media: Officers with Trident and the Princeton Police Department and Bureau County Sheriff's Department executed a warrant Tuesday at a house with the address of 805 North Main Street. Two men and a woman living at that house were arrested for drugs.

• BCR: Princeton water bills to increase about $3 per month for average consumer. City faces increased costs, seeks to balance its water system.

• WLOP: Remember the story about a van and trailer full of sound equipment being stolen last fall in Princeton? The man behind the crime is headed to prison.

• Save the date for the Tiger Classic Golf Tournament on Saturday, August 10th. The event includes 18 holes of golf, a cart, a sandwich, two drinks during play, and dinner for $125 per golfer, with a dinner-only option for $25. Enjoy a chance to win prizes in the hole-in-one and putting contests.

• Dylan Schneider Music will be rocking the stage on Friday, September 6 at the Homestead Festival, with his band performing live from 7 to 9 PM. Rodeo Drive Band will be opening the show from 5:00 to 6:30 PM with their fantastic tunes. Don't miss this incredible lineup and check out Dylan Schneider's music at dylanschneidermusic.com!

• Join the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce this Friday, July 19th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Soldiers & Sailors Park for a delicious lunch provided by the Covered Bridge Barbershop Chorus. On July 26th, Flags of Freedom will be serving lunch, offering Ribeye Sandwich, Pork chop sandwich, Brats and Hot Dogs. Walk up, drive thru or for orders over $25. Followed by the Rotary Club of Princeton on August 2nd. Don’t miss out on these community-hosted meals and the chance to support local organizations every Friday through September.

• The Coalition for Constitutional Rights is hosting a meeting this Thursday at 6 PM at the Prouty Building. The steering committee, consisting of ten members, is actively seeking younger participants to bring fresh perspectives to the group. Join them for a special movie screening of "Police State" and engage in meaningful discussions about vital issues affecting the community.

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✅FOR YOUR TO-DO LIST

• Learn to create beautiful watercolor bouquets at the Princeton Public Library with instructor Melody Best today from 5 PM to 8 PM. This workshop is suitable for all skill levels and provides all necessary materials for $30; however, seating is limited to 15 participants and registration is required.

• The "Open Play" event, hosted by Early Beginnings Parents As Teachers, offers a social and playful environment for children every third Thursday of the month from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at 605 S Pleasant St. It's a great opportunity for children to interact and parents to make new friends.

• Join the Writer's Club at the Princeton Public Library this Friday at 4:30 PM for a creative session where writers are encouraged to share their work and receive constructive feedback. Each session explores a different writing style or tool, and participants can learn about current writing competitions worldwide.

• Join the Bureau County Metro Center for a special Nerf event on Friday, July 19th! Participants should bring their launchers, and standard 2.75" darts and balls will be provided. If launchers require bigger darts, attendees will need to bring their own ammo and remember to initial them. The event times are as follows: K—2nd grade from 12:00 pm to 12:45 pm, 3rd—5th grade from 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm, and 6th—8th grade from 2:00 pm to 2:45 pm. The cost is $10 for members, $15 for residents, and $20 for non-residents.

• Mr. Rooney will perform a live DJ set featuring Funk, Dub, Reggae, and Old School Hip Hop at the Barrel Society on Friday at 7 PM. This event promises great vibes and an opportunity to enjoy drinks with friends.

• The Bureau County Fairgrounds will host the thrilling return of the Overdrive Monster Trucks on Saturday, July 20th with two shows at 10 AM and 4:30 PM. Expect more action, more shows, and a roster of monster trucks including Amp'ed Up, Block Head, Dirt Crew, DOZER, and Maximus, with tickets starting at just $10.

• Join the Canine Massage Clinic this Sunday from 10 AM to 1 PM at 25375 1150th North Ave. Learn hands-on techniques to massage your dog, improve their range of motion, and enhance bonding. The session is limited to 6 guests and costs $60, including refreshments and treats.

• Celebrate Christmas in July at Sisler's Ice Cream on National Ice Cream Day this Sunday from 2 PM to 8 PM. The event will feature holiday specials, delicious discounts, and festive giveaways, all at 421 S Main Street.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: Sunny skies. High 81°F. Winds from the north-northwest at 10 to 15 mph. Clear skies in the evening. Low 53°F. Winds from the north at 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday: Sunshine and some clouds. High 77°F. Winds light and variable. A mostly clear sky later in the day as well. Low 54°F. Winds light and variable.

Friday: Generally sunny despite a few afternoon clouds. High 79°F. Winds light and variable. A few clouds from time to time in the evening. Low 58°F. Winds light and variable.

Saturday: Partly to mostly cloudy. High 79°F. Winds light and variable. In the afternoon, mostly cloudy skies. Low 61°F. Winds light and variable.

Sunday: Mostly cloudy skies. High near 80°F. Winds light and variable. Mostly cloudy in the late evening. Low 62°F. Winds light and variable.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.59
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.66
Casey’s West/North: $3.69
Beck’s West/North: $3.69
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.69
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.79

🏷️LOCAL SALE

• A Farm and Business Tools Sale is scheduled for August 10, from 9 AM to Noon, at 23434 US Hwy 6. There will be a Bake Sale sponsored by Second Story Teen Center.This is an excellent opportunity for local businesses and farms to acquire tools essential for their operations. Make sure to arrive early to get the best selections!

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• The Bureau County Senior Center invites everyone to a fun afternoon of random trivia with Sam on Wednesday, July 17th, at 2 pm. It promises to be a delightful and entertaining event for all attendees!

• Golden Rice Authentic Thai Food will be open Wednesday to Saturday, July 17-20, serving lunch from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm and dinner from 4:00 pm to 6:30 pm (until 7:00 pm on Friday). Don't miss out on their special Mango and Sticky Rice, available this week!

• Steals & Deals are back at Four Seasons in Princeton, offering 50% off on Emily Daniels items now through July 21st. Note that this discount is only applicable to Emily Daniels items and cannot be combined with other offers.

• Sayler's General Store has just received a fresh delivery of local honey. Stop by to pick up a bottle of Miss Paula's Pure Honey and support your local beekeepers. Perfect for adding a touch of natural sweetness to your day!

• The Studio Boutique announced the availability of new drink tumblers in various colors. They are open tomorrow from 9 AM to 7 PM for shoppers interested in these stylish and practical items.

• This Saturday, July 20th, Farmer Smoked BBQ will be at the Princeton Inn on North Main St. from 11 am to 7 pm. Stop out and have a cold drink and your favorite Farmer Smoked dish while enjoying the sun on the patio!

• Sisler's Ice Cream is featuring a specialty sundae this week: the Peach Pie Sundae! This delightful treat includes peach ice cream, caramel sauce, graham cracker crunch, and whipped cream. Available from July 16th to 21st, don't miss out on this delicious dessert!

• Emerald Tablet Collective announced a flash tattoo day on July 27th with deals on various designs, starting at $50 and going up to $250. Doors open from 12pm-5pm. The event supports a skatepark project and aims to ensure everyone gets a tattoo without appointments.

• For a limited time, Paisano's Ristorante is offering a unique PB&J pizza, featuring thick pizza dough, creamy peanut butter, strawberry filling (with grape coming Thursday), and a sweet golden streusel. This creation is available in any size from small to XL. Additionally, their Jalapeño Popper Pizza is available until the end of July. Discover new flavors at Paisano's.

• Johnsons Carpet Shoppe is offering a limited-time Mohawk carpet sale, valid until August 31st. Take advantage of these deals while they last to upgrade your flooring.

• Corner Chair Market invites you to explore their delightful selection of items, including a charming mug featuring a cozy cat resting on a stack of colorful quilts, and an adorable cat-shaped dish adorned with playful puppies. The store also showcases beautifully crafted decor, such as wicker vases and inspiring wall art.

• Angel Studios' "Sound of Hope" will end this Thursday at the Apollo Theater at 4pm. It will play today at 4pm and 7pm. Make sure to catch this powerful story on the big screen as it was meant to be seen. Don't miss your last chance to experience this impactful film.

• Wild Ginger Bistro and Wine Bar announced their four-course dinner event on July 20th at 6:30 PM, featuring wine pairings from Bederra Vineyards. The exclusive menu includes dishes like diver scallops, braised short ribs, and mixed farm berry cobbler.

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⛪️PRINCETON CHURCHES

• Sunday July 21, The First United Methodist Church in Princeton 316 S. Church St. will have a special guest providing the music for the 9 am service. Ji Sun Lee is an exceptional artist, having performed concerts in Korea, US, Brazil, and Italy. Ji Sun has a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in piano performance and a Master's Degree in Organ Performance from the University of Arizona. She has won top prizes in several competitions, including first prizes in U. of Arizona Concerto Competition. Ji Sun will be joined by her husband Michael Lich, a classical guitarist who performs a wide variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and bluegrass. You are all invited to hear some outstanding and special music. No charge, No fee. All welcome.

• Open Prairie United Church of Christ has been running the Loads of Love laundry mission every month since October 2019. This service provides two free loads of laundry per household, with detergent included. The next event will have extended hours on Thursday, July 18th, from 1:00-7:00 PM at Princeton Laundry Village (12 West Peru St., behind Pizza Cellar). Spread the word to ensure everyone knows help is available!

⚠️PRINCETON OUTDOOR WARNING SYSTEM FAQS

The City of Princeton employs a sophisticated Outdoor Warning System consisting of eight strategically placed sirens throughout the city. These sirens are designed to provide comprehensive coverage and alert residents to severe weather conditions and other emergencies.

The sirens are located at key points to maximize coverage, including:

• City Yards (North Euclid at City Yards)

• Clark Street (Clark Street and Maple Street)

• East Central (East Central at Water Plant)

• Fairgrounds (Fairgrounds Road, Northwest Corner of Fairgrounds)

• Industrial Park (Progress Drive, In Front of Key Builders)

• McDonald’s (Northeast Corner of Parking Lot)

• South Chestnut (South Chestnut, South of Thompson Street)

• Ct (Coleita Ct / Zearing Ave)

Operation: The system is monitored and controlled 24/7, ensuring each siren operates efficiently.

Sirens are activated under specific conditions, including:

• A tornado warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for Princeton.

• Sighting of a funnel cloud or tornado by a trained spotter.

• Other emergencies as deemed necessary by local or federal authorities.

• Situations defined by the Department of Homeland Security posing an imminent threat.

Siren Test Schedule

• Monthly Tests: Conducted on the first Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m.

• Active Tests: April through October.

• Silent Tests: November through March.

• Sirens produce a loud steady tone during both tests and actual emergencies.

Tornado Safety Tips

• Immediate Action: Upon hearing a siren, seek shelter indoors immediately.

• Information Sources: Once inside, use a television or radio to receive further information from local officials.

• Drills: Practice tornado drills regularly to ensure family preparedness.

Understanding Watches and Warnings

• Severe Thunderstorm Watch: Indicates possible severe weather.

• Severe Thunderstorm Warning: Indicates imminent severe weather.

• Tornado Watch: Conditions are favorable for a tornado.

• Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted or indicated by radar.

No “All Clear” Signal

The sirens will not provide an “All Clear” signal. Information on the cessation of the emergency will be communicated through local news media.

Information Access During Emergencies

During siren activations, do not call 911 or the Fire Department for updates. Instead, refer to area media and the National Weather Service for the latest information.

By understanding and utilizing this system, residents can effectively respond to severe weather and emergencies, ensuring the safety of themselves and their families.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Monday night storms barrel through the Illinois Valley

• ‘The damage is extensive.’ Kewanee’s storm fallout in photos

Buda

The Mason Memorial Library in Buda is hosting an informational program on the Quilts of Valor today from 5-6 PM. This nationwide organization awards healing quilts to service men and women affected by war. The speaker for the event will be Terry Johnson, a Group Leader for the Illinois Quilts of Valor. The public is invited to attend the presentation and view some of the quilts; the library is handicapped accessible. Additionally, the Village of Buda will honor veterans and service members with special Quilts of Valor at the Buda Community Hall on Saturday, July 20th, at 9 AM.

Buda Fun Day is set for this Saturday, offering a jam-packed schedule of activities and entertainment. Here's what you can expect:

• Parade: Starts at 11:00 AM, followed by a variety of activities at Stewart Park.

• Quilts of Valor Ceremony: At 9:00 AM at Buda Community Hall, honoring veterans and service members with special quilts.

• Food Trucks: Taco Guzman, Bradford Snack Shack, Oorah BBQ, and Carnival Truck.

• Pie Contest: Homemade pies can be dropped off by 10:00 AM for judging at 11:00 AM.

• Bags Tournament: Starts at noon with signup at 11:30 AM. The winning team takes the pot.

• Special Guest: Cyle Dickens, a Princeton native and channel 6 weatherman from the Quad Cities, will be attending as the celebrity meteorologist.

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🎡AT THE FAIRGROUNDS

🚜Overdrive Monster Truck Show

Feel the ground shake as the Overdrive Monster Truck Show roars into the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Experience the thrill of monster trucks in action, with opportunities to ride in a real monster truck and meet the drivers.

• Date: July 20, 2024

• Times:

  • 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

  • 4:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

• Tickets: Starting at $10, available online

🎡Fairgrounds Gates Open

Kick off the fair festivities on August 21st, when the gates open at 2:00 p.m. Explore all the exciting attractions, delicious food, and fun activities the fair has to offer.

🎤Mitchell Tenpenny Concert with Special Guest Lauren Alaina

Get ready for an electrifying evening on August 22nd, as country music star Mitchell Tenpenny takes the stage with special guest Lauren Alaina. This dynamic duo is set to deliver an incredible performance you won't want to miss.

• Time: 7:30 p.m.

• Location: Grandstand

• Tickets: Available now at bureaucountyfair.com

🚗Demolition Derby

Get excited for August 24nd, for the heart-pounding excitement of the Demolition Derby. Witness cars collide in a spectacular show of driving skill and brute force, sure to be a crowd favorite.

• Time: 4:00 p.m.

🐶Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show

The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show is set to dazzle audiences with their incredible tricks and stunts. Watch these talented dogs showcase their skills daily at the fair, offering a perfect blend of entertainment for all ages.

• Daily Performances: Enjoy the show every day of the fair

• Fun for All Ages: A family-friendly event that’s sure to delight

Join us for an amazing week filled with music, stunts, and unforgettable moments. Get your tickets now and be part of the 169th Annual Bureau County Fair! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bureaucountyfair.com.

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