🅿️Ray Mabry, The Murph, and Volvo Island

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Hidy-ho, neighbor. There’s a lot going on in the most beautiful town in the world. I love Princeton. I grew up here, and I’m so thankful my children get to grow up here, too.

Let’s roll.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
📋Things To Do This Week
📍Outside City Limits
🧰Local Mechanics

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, David Hornbaker! 🎁🌹

• BCR: “Princeton Mayor Ray Mabry presented a challenge to citizens Monday just a week ahead of Earth Day – fill a bag of litter.“

• Mitchell Tenpenny, featuring special guest Lauren Alaina, will perform at the Bureau County Fair on Thursday, August 22nd. Ticket prices range from $35 for General Admission to $60 for the Pit area. Sales start Friday, April 19th at 10AM. $5 fee per ticket applies at checkout, with potential additional shipping fees.

• Get ready for a spring filled with talent and celebrations at Princeton schools! Catch the high-flying musical, "Mary Poppins," at Princeton High School on April 19th, 7pm, and April 21st, 2pm. Witness "The Adventures of Robinhood" brought to life by Princeton Christian Academy on April 26th-27th at 7pm. Enjoy melodious performances at the Logan Jr. High Band/Choir Concert on May 16th at 6:30pm.

• Festival 56 is looking for host families for its upcoming summer season. This can be a rewarding experience, the theater said in a news release. Host families will have the chance to forge connections with talented individuals from various backgrounds. By opening their homes, they will provide performers with a comfortable and supportive environment where they can rest and recharge after long days of rehearsals and performances. This also is an opportunity to be part of the world of theater. If you’re interested in becoming a host family, call Tracy at 815-876-6303 or Tammy at 815-878-1253 for information and to discuss the details of this arrangement.

• Princeton NOW+ subscribers now receive Marriages, Board, and City Council meeting summaries — along with local obituaries, arrests, and property transfers, ad free. Upgrade your newsletter today and join 119 others.

  • Todd: “I love this newsletter. Very well written, excellent coverage of topics with good timing!“

  • Susan: “So glad that I subscribed, it’s well worth the price! Keep providing this great content, Justin.”

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: The day will be cloudy with gusty winds developing in the afternoon and a high of 63°F. Winds will come from the west-southwest at 20 to 30 mph. The evening will bring partly cloudy skies with a low of 46°F and winds decreasing to 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday: Expect cloudy skies with periods of rain later in the day and a high of 62°F. Winds from the northeast at 10 to 15 mph and a 90% chance of rain. Showers will continue into the evening, followed by some clearing overnight with a low around 40°F. The chance of rain decreases to 50%.

Friday: It will be mostly sunny despite a few afternoon clouds with a high near 55°F. The winds will be from the west-northwest at 15 to 25 mph. The evening will be partly cloudy with a low of 36°F and winds at 10 to 15 mph.

Saturday: The forecast calls for partly to mostly cloudy skies with a high near 50°F and winds from the northwest at 10 to 20 mph. The evening will see a few clouds with a low of 34°F and winds continuing from the northwest.

It looks like a typical spring week with a mix of sun and showers and some brisk winds. Enjoy the sunnier moments and be prepared for the rainy ones!

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.79
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.86
Casey’s West/North: $3.89
Beck’s West/North: $3.89
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.89
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.89

Diesel

Beck’s West/North: $3.99
Road Ranger, N Main St.: $4.05
Casey’s West/North: $3.95
Amoco, N Main St: $3.99
Sullivan’s: $4.29

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Didoughs Twisted Pretzel’s will be at Barrel Society from 3-7pm today.

• Marble and Pandora, bonded Pomeranians aged 9 and 10, are available for joint adoption at Illinois Valley Animal Rescue. These well-behaved females are a joy to be around. Compatibility with dogs is confirmed; details on cats and kids are unknown.

• For Mother's Day, Sweet Haven Cakes is offering chocolate-covered strawberries for $20 and a cake pop bouquet for $15. The cake pops come in a variety of flavors including lemon, Oreo, and confetti.

• Get ready for endless strikes at Pin Splitter Lanes! Whether you’re looking for a casual Thursday league or unlimited bowling on Mondays from 5 pm to 10 pm, we’ve got you covered for just $10 per person and $3 shoe rental if needed. Plus, sharpen your skills at our Bowling Clinic for all ages. Join the fun from May 25th to July 26th.

• Friends of Strays is in need of specific items and has updated their Amazon wish list to include large size latex-free rubber gloves in blue nitrile. They have expressed their gratitude for the community's ongoing support and appreciate any donations for their animals. They encourage those who can help to check out their Amazon list and contribute if possible, highlighting their appreciation for the support.

• Shop for the latest T-shirts and tanks at Little Blue Dress, both in store and online. Their newest arrivals are available at www.littlebluedressprinceton.com, so be sure to take a peek and snag your favorites while they're in stock. They’ve also restocked their Madrid Style Birkenstock Sandals.

• Tailholt Trading Post has a variety of items available today, including Tonka and Nylint toys, children's clothing, various signs, shelves featuring the Pillsbury Doughboy, and wicker baskets. They have a wonderful selection that caters to both collectors and those looking for unique children's items or home décor.

• Café 129 & Café Grace catering services invites you to book your next catering event with them. No party is too big or too small. They cater to various events like weddings, corporate events, luncheons, graduations, and family parties. They offer gourmet experiences. Get a quote at [email protected].

• The Princeton Closet is open for donations Tuesday through Saturday, from 9am to 3pm. They have a convenient drive-up and drop-off area behind the store, where staff will be available to assist with your donations. They welcome clothing, household items, furniture, and books, but they cannot accept items that are ripped, stained, dirty, or in poor condition. Other items they can't accept include electronics like TVs and computers, car seats, treadmills, magazines, and damaged books.

• Rachel Rene is advertising their handmade deodorants. The deodorants are highlighted as free from aluminum, phthalates, harsh chemicals, and are noted to be effective. They have over 25 scents available.

• Hornbaker Gardens has recently received a shipment of tropical hibiscus, mandevillas, and Boston ferns. These plants are expected to sell fast but will need protection from any cold temperatures early in the season. Once it's warm enough, these vibrant and glossy-foliaged plants can be enjoyed outdoors throughout the season, perfect for creating a tropical atmosphere on any Midwestern patio.

• Anytime Fitness Princeton is hosting a complimentary Murph training session on April 20th with Coach @tbcarriere2005 to prepare for the Murph challenge in late May. The workout will consist of a 1-mile run, 100 pullups, 200 pushups, 300 squats, followed by another 1-mile run, all in the distinct Anytime Fitness style. Additionally, special t-shirts will be available for $25, and the proceeds will benefit a local veteran charity.

• This summer-ready slip dress from Five 22 features a delicate botanical line print, with a simple, above-the-knee cut, and spaghetti straps. It's accented with button details at the back, offered in sizes S-L for $48. Ideal for showers, graduations, or any summer event.

• Four Seasons is showcasing Coral Gables from Skye's the Limit, featuring Marina Blue and Coral options. They have a selection of clothing styles including stripes, solids, florals, and mosaics, with various types of tops and tanks. Customers can shop online and save 28% by using the code SUN, applicable to Missy Sizes. This promotion is valid through April 21, 2024.

• Grandma Rosie's Sweet Treats is now offering a selection of salads, and they've announced delivery service for added convenience. They have a salad with a mix of greens topped with black olives, onions, tomatoes, and crumbled cheese, and another features crispy chicken with shredded cheese and dressing. If you’re looking to have a salad delivered, you can call them at 8158721200.

• Rock out with Joe Rian and The A.M. Drinkers at Hollywood & Vine on April 27th at 7pm. Aim for victory at their Dart Tournament on April 20th at 12pm, and make sure you're aboard the H&V Tavern Bus Tour, a day of fun starting at noon on the same day. Save the dates and join the community for music and games.

👷PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• OSF HealthCare in Princeton is hiring a full-time Cook with a starting pay of $18.07 per hour. Applicants are required to have at least 6 months of experience in healthcare or a restaurant facility and obtain an Illinois Food Safety Sanitation Certification within 1 year of hire. The role involves preparing and presenting high-quality food, following safe food handling procedures, and managing orders with attention to dietary needs and customer specifications.

• Corteva Agriscience is seeking a full-time Production Technician in Princeton, IL, offering $20-$24 per hour with a $2,500 sign-on bonus. The role involves diverse tasks related to plant operations and field activities, adapting to seasonal changes, and requires a proactive work ethic and good time management skills. Benefits include robust time off, health benefits, and a competitive retirement savings plan, among others.

• Rover is offering part-time Dog Walker/Dog Sitter positions in Princeton, IL, where individuals can be their own boss, set their own rates, and work as they wish. Qualifications include a love for pets, experience in pet care, and the ability to pass a background check. The role includes a variety of pet care services such as dog walking, doggy day care, and house sitting, with prompt responses to business requests through the Rover app.

• Four Seasons Women's Apparel is hiring part-time employees who are enthusiastic about significant retail discounts, offering up to 75% off. They require availability during the day and on Saturdays, but notably, the store is closed on major holidays and Sundays, promising better hours than many retail positions. Benefits include competitive wages, flexible schedules, savings plans, paid vacation, and a strong employee discount program. Referrals are also valued, with a $50 gift certificate incentive for successful employee referrals. Interested applicants can email their resume to [email protected], apply in person at the store located at 643 S Main Street, Princeton, IL 61356, or call 815-872-2225 for more information.

• Illinois Valley Credit Union is on the lookout for a dedicated Teller/Member Service Representative in Princeton. The role promises a full-time opportunity complete with a suite of benefits, including 401(k), dental, health, vision insurance, and paid time off. Candidates should bring enthusiasm for providing outstanding service and a readiness to handle a range of responsibilities, including loan payments and account transactions. High school diploma or equivalent preferred. This is a great chance for those seeking a stable career in financial services with a supportive team. Apply on Indeed or in person.

• Gateway Services, Inc. is currently seeking dedicated individuals to join their team as Bureau & Putnam Area Rural Transit (BPART) drivers in Princeton, IL. This full-time role is vital to ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of passengers, with operational hours spanning Monday to Saturday, 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., including some holidays. Candidates interested in making a difference in the community through this role can obtain applications at www.gateway-services.org or by visiting the office at 535 Elm Place, Princeton. Gateway Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• Zearing Child Enrichment Center: hiring full-time child care teachers for children aged birth to 12 years old, with specific openings for a 2-year-old teacher and preschool teachers. The position offers $14.25 to $18.00 per hour, benefits including a 401(k), health insurance, and tuition reimbursement, and a Monday to Friday day shift schedule. Applicants should have CPR certification, teaching experience, and at least a high school diploma or GED.

• Empire Acoustical Systems is now hiring general laborers. Call 815-261-0072, or stop by 1111 Ace Road for more information. For over 30 years, Empire Acoustical Systems have designed, engineered, manufactured and installed acoustical barriers, noise walls, soundproofing panels, and acoustic solutions to meet the unique design challenges of each individual project.

• KS Lawn & Snow is hiring motivated individuals as grass begins to grow. Drivers license is preferred. Pay is $15-20 an hour. Call 815-878-6126.

• The position for a Bakery Clerk at Sullivan's Foods offers part-time work and includes benefits like 401(k) with matching, various insurances, employee stock ownership plan, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement.

• Scooter's Coffee: hiring for the position of Beverage Server / Crew Member / Team Member in a full-time or part-time capacity, offering $13.00-$14.12 an hour. The job involves greeting customers, managing cash, serving orders following recipes and aesthetic standards, maintaining store cleanliness, and operating store equipment. Immediate hire is indicated, with no degree requirement mentioned.

📋THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK

• Princeton Art District: “Just a few more days left!! Go into anyone of the listed businesses to grab a card and wander into these great places in the Art District. Get it marked off and bring into Beetz Me by April 30th! You could win a $1000.00 shopping spree!”

• Join the Early Beginnings Parents As Teachers for an Open Play session every third Thursday of the month, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM at 605 S Pleasant St, Princeton IL. This is a great opportunity for children to socialize and parents to connect with others in the community. Mark your calendars for a fun, interactive hour!

• Step back in time with Lt. Col. Dick Wells as George Washington at the family-friendly event on Thursday, April 18th. Enjoy complimentary hot dogs, chips, drinks, and homemade pies starting at 5:30 PM, followed by an enlightening presentation on the war at Bunker Hill at 6 PM. Located at the Pouty Building, 435 S. Main, Princeton – this educational evening is brought to you by the Coalition for Constitutional Rights. Don’t miss this chance to honor history and those who served our nation!

• Experience the timeless romance and drama of "Titanic" at the Bureau County History Center's movie night. Head to the Apollo Theater on April 20th, 2:00 PM, for a journey back to the grandeur and tragedy of this epic tale. Your ticket grants you a medium drink and popcorn for just $12 if purchased in advance, or $15 on the day.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Volvo Island: “The mystery of a car stranded on a tiny private oasis in Illinois”

• PJS: “Botulism hospitalizations linked to cosmetic procedures in Illinois, other states.”

• WLPO: Stephanie Mickley has made the decision to resign as the head girls basketball coach for the Lady Bruins.

• Mobile Mondays with Savanna has got you covered. Savanna offers a range of services including animal nail trims, light grooming, house cleaning, organizing, yard work, and running errands. She's available for two appointments on April 15th and 22nd. As a full-time veterinary technician, she's dedicating her off-days to assisting you. For bookings, reach out to her at 309-989-7960.

Buda

• The Buda Community Blood Drive is today from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM at Mason Memorial District Library. Your donation can make a lifesaving difference, and as a thank you, you'll receive a $10 gift card via email. Give the gift of life in just about an hour—your contribution matters!

Wyanet

• Gear up for a community treasure hunt on Father’s Day weekend with the More in Bureau County yard sales. Wyanet will host town-wide sales, including a significant event at the VFW and Wyanet Locker's cookout. Enjoy popcorn and flavored cotton candy, with vendors set up by The Gathering Place. Stay tuned for more activities and come find some hidden gems!

Sheffield

• Join the Sheffield Lion's Club for the exciting Queen of Hearts event this Wednesday! Try your luck at Reds Bar, where the pot has soared over $1,500. Jim DeVenney will start selling tickets at 4:30 PM at Reds, and then at Benaks Ale House at 5:45 PM, with the draw at 7:00 PM. Grab your tickets for $20 for 50 or $5 for 6. Don't miss the merchandise drawings, but remember, you must be present to win. Come out to support and potentially go home a winner!

Walnut

• Koser Electric in Walnut is hiring immediately! They're on the lookout for candidates with residential and commercial electrical experience, but it's not a requirement—enthusiasm to learn the trade is key. If you’re not deterred by heights and ready to be trained, consider this Monday to Friday opportunity. Apply by sending a letter of interest and your resume to [email protected]. They promise to be a great team to join!

• Just Poppin By is expanding their popcorn flavor menu! Currently available are Butter, Homestyle Butter, Dill-licious, Garlic Parm, and Say Cheese. More tantalizing flavors are on the way! To get your popcorn fix, call or text 815-915-6577 or drop a message on Facebook.

Tiskilwa

• Hidden Hollow Farm invites you to brighten your space with a bouquet of vibrant tulips available for pickup at NiciLynn’s in Princeton. The event runs on April 17th from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. While there, consider pairing your tulips with stylish glass pitcher vases from Hoffman’s, also on offer at NiciLynn’s, for a perfect display of spring freshness.

🧰LOCAL MECHANICS

• Chuck Mecum (815-876-7904)

• Joe's Midtown (815-875-1515)

• Jody's Auto Clinic (815-379-2410)

• Rollin' Mobile Mechanic (815-579-5310)

• Mike's Garage (815-875-6106)

• K&E Auto (815-872-1630)

• B&R Repair (815-699-2641)

• DF Mobile Repair (815-833-0008)

• Hap's Repair and Towing (815-975-9084)

• Princeton Chevrolet GMC (815-323-4044)

• Eric Gualandi’s Small Engine Repair (815-915-5803)

• Shane’s Towing and Repair (815-915-1451)