🍺Root Beer, a Mesoscale Convective Vortex, and Local Fireworks Shows

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Good morning, beautiful, sensational, magnanimous, tremendous Princeton, Illinois. Today is National Root Beer Day. Root beer, a sweet, nonalcoholic, carbonated beverage, originated in North America and is traditionally flavored with extracts of roots and herbs like sassafras, wintergreen, and sarsaparilla. Philadelphia pharmacist Charles Elmer Hires successfully marketed root beer in the late 1800s, and today, brands like PepsiCo and Coca-Cola produce it commercially, with variations in flavoring, and it's still enjoyed in classic root beer floats at old-fashioned soda fountains.

I’m rootin’ for you. Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🎇Local Fireworks Shows
🌤️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
🌱Princeton: Small Town Growth and Charm
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
🎸Local Music
😎Vacation Bible Schools
🗓️Princeton Events
🍿At the Apollo
🎰May Gaming Report

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• According to Flags of Freedom, yesterday’s unusually strong straight-line winds caused significant disruptions, including the loss of two large flags by I-80. Officials have announced plans to preemptively take down a third flag today. As a result, residents and visitors will notice the absence of flags at this location for the next few days until conditions stabilize and it is deemed safe to reinstall them.

• BCR: “Lani Swinford received the Betty Pretzsch Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award. The Betty Pretzsch Memorial Volunteer Award is given to a five-year member of the Friends of Princeton Public Library organization who has demonstrated his/her interest in the goals of the group by volunteering at the library and supporting the work of the group.”

• Yesterday evening, according to the EMA, Dover officials closed all roads into the town to non-residents and non-emergency responders due to numerous downed electrical lines. The town hall was opened as a cooling center, providing bottled water for residents affected by the power outage, which was being addressed by Ameren due to multiple snapped poles and downed lines throughout the town. Residents were urged not to travel unless necessary, to facilitate emergency operations.

• During a search at 805 North Main in Princeton on Wednesday, officers found drugs and arrested 47-year-old Jason Byrd. He was charged with felony drug trafficking after the discovery of heroin, cocaine, and items linked to drug packaging and sales.

• It's going to be hot today, so the PYBSL board would like to do the cooking for you from 5:30 PM until sold out at Zearing Park. They will have upwards of 200 chops available. Prices will be set at $4 for a pork chop sandwich, $5 for a sandwich and chips, and $8 for a sandwich, chips, and a drink.

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🎇LOCAL FIREWORKS SHOWS

• Mendota | Lake Mendota | June 29th, 7pm

• Peru | Water St. | July 3rd, 8pm

• Geneseo | Richmond Hill Park | July 4th, 8pm

• Princeton | Zearing | July 4th, 9pm

• Utica | Carey Memorial Park | July 5th, 5pm

• Ottawa | 3215 E. 1969th Rd. | July 6th, 8pm

• Walnut | July 7th, 9pm

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

NWS: Yesterday, a Mesoscale Convective Vortex (MCV) caused severe storms across areas east of the Mississippi River. The storms resulted in widespread wind damage with speeds ranging from 60-70+ mph and included golf ball-sized hail near Princeton. Notable reports included 63 mph wind in Moline, 62 mph wind in Davenport, and 1.75" hail in Sheffield.

Today: Expect plenty of sunshine with a high temperature around 95°F. Winds will be from the SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Evening conditions will be generally fair, with a low near 75°F. Winds will shift to the south at 10 to 15 mph.

Tuesday: The day will be partly cloudy with intervals of clouds and sunshine. High temperatures will reach 93°F. Winds from the south will be stronger, at 15 to 25 mph, with possible higher gusts. The evening will see a few clouds with a low around 75°F. Winds will remain from the south at 10 to 15 mph.

Wednesday: Mixed sunshine and clouds throughout the day. There is a chance of a stray shower or thunderstorm. The high will be around 91°F, with winds from the SW at 10 to 15 mph. Partly cloudy skies will continue into the evening with a low of 71°F. Winds will be from the SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.44
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.53
Casey’s West/North: $3.57
Beck’s West/North: $3.57
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.57
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.57

Diesel

Casey’s: $3.37
Beck’s: $3.29
Amoco: $3.39

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• The Second Story Teen Center is seeking donations of toothbrushes, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, socks, ramen soups, Chef Boyardee ravioli, and Kraft Mac & Cheese to support their pantry. Please drop your donations off at Johnson’s Carpet Shoppe.

• Chelsea Gives Back is organizing a free clothing pop-up event on Saturday, June 22nd from 10 am to noon, at 1014 N Plum, where all items will be available at no cost, styled like a yard sale without prices. She is also requesting those who can to bring a table for displaying the clothes, as she does not own any, but emphasizes that clothing donations are welcome even if donors cannot provide a table.

• Grandma Rosie’s Cruise Night is set to take place on Friday, June 21st from 5:00 to 8:00 PM at 920 W. Peru St., directly across from the fairgrounds. The event is welcoming to all makes and models of cars and will feature a range of festivities including Best of Cruise Awards, trivia prizes, door prizes, a 50/50 raffle, and dash plaques. This community gathering promises an enjoyable evening for car enthusiasts and families alike.

• Join the Princeton Inn Bag's Tournament on Saturday, June 22nd at 12 PM. This fun-filled day includes a tournament with $200 added to the pot, featuring four rounds of round-robin play followed by an A-B bracket double elimination. Each team is guaranteed six games, and the entry fee is $40 per team. Sign-up starts at 11 AM, and there will be a band playing at 5 PM.

• Barrel Society is hosting Ted Lasso Trivia Night on Tuesday, July 23 at 7 PM. Sign up your team of 2-6 Ted Lasso enthusiasts by sending a message on Facebook or calling, as this event will sell out quickly.

• Shelley Barnett and Plexus have unveiled their top-selling 3-product Gut Health Supplement System designed to optimize microbiome health.

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🌱PRINCETON: SMALL TOWN GROWTH AND CHARM

Princeton embodies the essence of small-town America with its rich history, economic resilience, and a strong sense of community. Incorporated in 1884, Princeton has cultivated a reputation for being a welcoming and stable community.

Princeton's population has seen a modest yet steady increase of 2.9% since 2000, reaching 7,721 in 2022. This growth highlights its appeal as a thriving city. The cost of living index in Princeton was 75.6 in March 2022, significantly lower than the national average of 100, making it an affordable place to live. This economic advantage, combined with steady growth, makes Princeton an attractive place for families and individuals seeking a high quality of life without the high costs associated with larger urban areas.

Economic indicators reflect Princeton's upward trajectory. The median household income in 2022 was $54,696, a substantial rise from $39,622 in 2000. Additionally, the per capita income increased to $36,386 from $20,632 over the same period, indicating improved economic opportunities for residents. Despite an unemployment rate of 5.8% in December 2023, which is slightly higher than the Illinois average of 4.2%, Princeton still demonstrates a dynamic job market.

The housing market in Princeton is robust. The median house or condo value in 2022 was $143,531, up from $91,500 in 2000, indicating a significant appreciation in property values. The median real estate property taxes for housing units with mortgages were $2,323 in 2022, while for those without mortgages, it was $2,869. The city has seen consistent residential development, with numerous building permits issued for single-family homes over the years. For instance, in 2022, six buildings were constructed with an average cost of $207,200 each, showing a stable investment in the community’s infrastructure.

Princeton's demographic composition is diverse, with German ancestry making up 21.9% of the population, followed by American (14.1%), English (9.1%), Swedish (7.6%), Irish (6.1%), and Italian (3.8%). The city is also home to 196 foreign-born residents, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community atmosphere.

The local economy is supported by various industries, with healthcare (8.7%), educational services (8.6%), and metal products (7.3%) being the most prominent. Common occupations include production supervisors (5.8%), management roles (4.3%), and positions in metal and plastic manufacturing (3.6%), indicating a balanced and varied job market. The unemployment rate remains competitive, reflecting the city's dynamic employment landscape.

Education plays a crucial role in Princeton, with 91.8% of the population aged 25 and over holding a high school diploma or higher. Additionally, 27.1% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher, and 10.7% have graduate or professional degrees. The city’s school enrollment statistics show robust participation across various educational levels, with notable percentages in grade 1 to 4 (28%) and grade 5 to 8 (36%). The mean travel time to work is 13.9 minutes, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Princeton's climate features four distinct seasons, offering a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. The city receives an average annual precipitation of about 37 inches, with moderate humidity levels making it comfortable to live year-round. Snowfall peaks in the winter months, with average snowfall in January reaching 11 inches, contributing to a picturesque winter landscape. The city enjoys abundant sunshine in the summer, with July having the highest percentage of sunny days.

Fire safety is a notable aspect of Princeton’s commitment to community welfare. Historical data from 2003 to 2018 shows an average of 54 fire incidents per year, with structure fires (37.6%) and outside fires (33.1%) being the most common. The trend in fire incidents has been declining, indicating effective fire safety measures and community awareness.

Princeton exemplifies the charm and potential of small-town America. Its economic growth, affordable living, cultural diversity, and strong community spirit make it an ideal place to live and raise a family. As Princeton continues to evolve and thrive, it promises to offer even greater opportunities and a brighter future for all of us. The city’s blend of historical richness and forward-looking development stands as a beacon of what a small American town can achieve.

All data found at city-data.com

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

Bureau County Senior Citizens Association

📋Information and Assistance Coordinator

They are looking for an experienced Information and Assistance Coordinator with expertise in Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. This full-time position requires someone who can work well with the senior population and is proficient in office settings. Key qualifications include organizational skills, and knowledge of Microsoft Office and Excel is a plus. The position offers a Monday through Friday schedule, 8 AM to 4 PM, with paid holidays, and a 401K with a match and vacation. Please note that this position does not offer insurance.

🍽️Congregate Meal/Activities Coordinator

Join the team as a Congregate Meal/Activities Coordinator! They need a creative individual who can drive IDOT vehicles and has basic computer knowledge. The ideal candidate will work well with seniors, handle multi-tasking efficiently, and be willing to pass the Food Sanitation Managers course.

For both positions, send your resume to:

Denise Ihrig, Director
Bureau County Senior Citizens Association
16 W. Marion St., Princeton, IL 61356
Email: [email protected]

• Pharmacy Technician | Walmart | Full-time, ~17.50-22.50

• Team Resource | Corteva | Contract, ~17.00-18.25

• Assembler | Ingersol Rand | Full-time, $20.00

Add a job to the list — email: [email protected]

🎸LOCAL MUSIC

• Creed Fisher | Psycho Silo Saloon | June 21st, 6pm

• The Wise Guys | Princeton Inn | June 22nd, 5pm

• Seventh Day Slumber | New Hope Church of the Nazarene | June 25th, 6pm

• Wild Card | Walnut Days Celebration | July 5th, 8pm

• Chris Stapleton & Eric Church Tributes | 11 W Main St., Ottawa | July 20th, 6pm

• Jimmy Buffet Tribute Night | 809 N. 2199th Rd, Tonica | July 20th, 5pm

• Brushville | Riverfront Bar & Grill, Peru | July 28th, 12pm

• 38 SPECIAL, special guest Problem Child, Wild Card opening | Psycho Silo Saloon | Aug. 1st, 5pm

• Back Road Music Festival | Wiley Park, Galva | Aug. 10th, 4pm

• Colby T. Helms & The Virginia Creepers | Barrel Society | Aug. 30th, 7pm

Down on Main Summer Street Concert Series

• On July 12, don't miss the dynamic duo Mike and Joe.

• Dillon Carmichael will bring his unique blend of music on August 9.

• Followed by the World Turning Band on September 5.

• The season will wrap up on October 5 with an incredible performance by Mae Estes.

Princeton Community Band 2024 Summer Season at Soldiers and Sailors, beginning at 6pm.

• June 30

• July 7

• July 21

• July 28

Add your music to the list — email: [email protected]

😎VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS

Seatonville Community Church invites all children ages 4 to entering 8th grade to join a thrilling week at Vacation Bible School. From July 15th to July 19th, the church, located at 110 U.S. Route 6, Seatonville, will host the event from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. This year’s theme, "Wild LIVE," highlights Christ's character and features an array of activities including worship music, captivating Bible stories, and inspiring missionary stories. Participants will also enjoy crafts, snacks, games, and more. For registration or more information, please call 815-915-6391 or 815-894-2248. Don't miss this fun-filled opportunity!

• Tiskilwa Community Church | June 24th-28th | 6pm | Sign Up: 815-878-4763

• Bureau Township Community Church | July 8th-12th | 6pm | Website 

• Princeton First United Methodist Church | July 8th-11th | 6pm | Sign Up

🤝HELP WANTED

Dauber Company, a manufacturer of high-quality silicon carbide products, is family-owned and operated and is located in Tonica, Illinois.

We are hiring experienced maintenance workers starting at $32/hr, entry-level maintenance workers at $25-31/hr, and laborers starting at $24/hr.

Dauber Company offers paid holidays and vacation, 100% free medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k plan, profit sharing, and advancement opportunities.

Apply by sending an email to [email protected], mailing to 577 N. 18th Rd, Tonica, or calling 815-442-3569, extension *813.

🗓️PRINCETON UPCOMING EVENTS

• Z Tour Pre-Party, Kev Roy & The Joy | Frontier Front Lawn | June 21st

• Cabaret | Grace Theater | June 22nd-Aug 6th

• Z Tour Bike Ride and Bike Fest | Zearing | June 22nd

• Festival 56 Summer Season | Soldiers and Sailors | June 22nd-August 4th

• Bluewater Kings Band, Fireworks | Zearing Park | July 4th

• Bureau County Fair, Mitchell Tenpenny | Fairgrounds | August 22nd

Add your event to the list — email: [email protected]

🍿AT THE APOLLO

Inside Out 2 (PG)

• Join the emotions in Riley’s mind as they embark on a new adventure in this delightful sequel.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 4:45 PM & 7:15 PM

Bad Boys: Ride or Die (R)

• An action-packed sequel featuring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as they tackle their toughest case yet.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 4:30 PM & 7:00 PM

🎰MAY GAMING REPORT

Beck Oil Company of Illinois (Two Locations Combined):

• Amount Played: $1,841,140.39

• Amount Won: $1,741,421.41

• Net Terminal Income: $784,661.74

Black Rose III LLC:

• Amount Played: $938,281.30

• Amount Won: $849,613.00

• Net Terminal Income: $382,850.10

Road Ranger, L.L.C.:

• Amount Played: $776,559.14

• Amount Won: $679,223.20

• Net Terminal Income: $239,654.90

Ye Olde Underground Inn, Ltd.:

• Amount Played: $457,392.35

• Amount Won: $417,718.19

• Net Terminal Income: $136,888.86

Dharma Oil, Inc.:

• Amount Played: $468,945.95

• Amount Won: $424,665.77

• Net Terminal Income: $182,455.90

Suzi's II, LLC:

• Amount Played: $189,251.94

• Amount Won: $176,480.64

• Net Terminal Income: $37,910.40

Expresslane, Inc.:

• Amount Played: $146,268.43

• Amount Won: $139,941.77

• Net Terminal Income: $25,334.39

J. B. Sullivan, LLC:

• Amount Played: $119,304.87

• Amount Won: $110,077.37

• Net Terminal Income: $30,109.40

The Cliff Event Center, LLC:

• Amount Played: $104,095.91

• Amount Won: $96,171.84

• Net Terminal Income: $32,770.13

Downtown Pub, Inc.:

• Amount Played: $103,238.76

• Amount Won: $97,594.34

• Net Terminal Income: $22,825.58

MPP&S LLC:

• Amount Played: $73,318.43

• Amount Won: $70,499.12

• Net Terminal Income: $7,420.55

Skoonerz Inc.:

• Amount Played: $77,928.34

• Amount Won: $72,790.13

• Net Terminal Income: $16,342.81

Sandra Kuhn:

• Amount Played: $51,895.04

• Amount Won: $42,750.13

• Net Terminal Income: $26,987.00

Princeton Lodge No 1339 Loyal Order of Moose:

• Amount Played: $38,913.57

• Amount Won: $36,490.14

• Net Terminal Income: $8,269.25

Pin Splitter Lanes LLC:

• Amount Played: $33,034.17

• Amount Won: $30,421.31

• Net Terminal Income: $8,017.24

Coal Creek Brewing, LLC:

• Amount Played: $32,584.75

• Amount Won: $28,638.71

• Net Terminal Income: $12,848.00