SPONSORED BY

Happy Thursday morning, Princeton. You’ve got some options: tacos, puppies, and potentially rain. You can bid on a quarter and win a lamp at the Malden Booster Auction (or tacos—either way, your day’s looking up). The Princeton Animal Clinic is hosting “Up Dog,” which sounds like a joke setup, but no—it’s real, and it involves dogs doing agility things. And then there’s the Swap Meet, which is basically eBay but with cool leather vests.

Let’s check it out.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
📚Independent Book Store Day
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
🎸Free Concert: Bobby Jo Valentine
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Opportunities
💼Princeton Businesses
💭Remember in Princeton
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
📍Outside City Limits

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Elaine McCauley!🎂

• BCR: Seven Princeton High School athletes signed to play college sports at a special ceremony Tuesday night. Zoey Byers (tennis, IVCC), Arthur Burden (football, Aurora), Kelsea Klingenberg (softball, Parkland), Cade Odell (football, Dordt), Jordan Reinhardt (baseball, Aurora), Chase Sims (soccer, Monmouth), and Sam Woolley (softball, Judson) all chose schools based on academics, athletics, coaching, and campus fit. Their future majors range from education and business to physical therapy.

• According to Illinois State Police, at 4:59 a.m. Wednesday, troopers responded to I-80 eastbound at milepost 43 for a semitrailer that rolled into a ditch.

• The River Bend Food Bank will hold a mobile food pantry Thursday at the Bureau County Fairgrounds in Princeton, with registration at 9:15 a.m. and distribution beginning at 10 a.m. The indoor event, lasting up to two hours, is supported by the Bureau County Food Pantry, Old Wheels Club, and First Lutheran Church; attendees are encouraged to bring a laundry basket for carrying food.

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce invites runners to the Princeton Mile on June 7 at 10:00 AM. Registration is $25. Register here or call the Chamber at 815-875-2616.

• The 3rd Annual Bureau County Fair Queen Golf Tournament will be held on May 10, 2025, at Spring Creek Golf Course in Spring Valley. Registration is $70 per player before April 10 and $80 after, with check-in at 8:00 a.m. and a shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. For questions, contact Shari Marquez at (815) 252-6835 or [email protected].

• Free meals are served twice a month at First United Methodist Church Hall, 316 S. Church Street, Princeton, with doors opening at 4:45 p.m. and dinner from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. on listed dates in 2025 including May 12 & 19, June 9 & 23, and more.

• The Prairie Arts Council presents “Puppets on Parade,” showcasing Jeanne O’Melia’s imaginative sculptures, puppets, and papier-mâché heads inspired by global travel and the human form. The opening reception is May 2 from 6–8 p.m., with gallery hours Saturdays and Sundays from 1–3 p.m. through May 25.

📚TRUE LEAVES BOOKSHOP CELEBRATES INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE DAY

Mark your calendars! On Saturday, April 26th, from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, True Leaves Bookshop in Princeton IL will be celebrating Independent Bookstore Day—a nationwide event honoring the magic of indie bookstores and the communities that support them. Located at 15 Park Ave W., Princeton IL, in the historic Sash-Stalter-Matson Building, True Leaves Bookshop is excited to host a day filled with book-loving joy. “Whether you're a local or just visiting, we’d love for you to be part of our day,” said Co-owner Matthew Adams. “Grab a donut, meet a friend, pick up a new or used book– have some fun!” “Indpendent Bookstore Day celebrates the irreplaceable role independent bookstores play in communities,” reflected Angela Adams, Co-owner of True Leaves Bookshop. “In a world of big box stores, Independent Bookstore Day is a chance to support local, connect with fellow readers, and celebrate what makes indie bookshops so special.” What’s Happening at True Leaves on April 26th: Exclusive indie-only releases and limited-edition bookish goodies 🎁 Giveaways throughout the day—because we love surprises as much as you do ☕ Complimentary refreshments, served with a side of conversation 💬 Chill, bookish vibes and plenty of cozy corners to browse or stay awhile Come Celebrate With Us!

For more info or press inquiries, contact: Angela Adams | True Leaves Bookshop | 15 Park Ave W, Princeton, IL 61356 | [email protected] | 815-993-3501 | https://www.trueleavesbookshop.com

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🛒 Mobile Food Pantry – Distribution begins at 10 AM at the Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W Peru St, Princeton, today, April 24. Registration is from 9:15–10 AM. Indoors; bring a basket.

🐾 Up Dog at Princeton Animal Care Clinic – A weekend of agility games behind the Princeton Animal Care Clinic from Friday to Sunday, April 25–27. Select games Friday between 3:30 and 6:30 PM; full runs Saturday and Sunday from 9 AM–5 PM or sunset.

🌮 Malden Booster Club Taco Lunch & Quarter Auction – Tacos and bidding at Malden Grade School Gym on Sunday, April 27. Lunch starts at 12 PM; auction at 1:30 PM. $5 includes 2 tacos, drink, dessert; $1 per extra taco.

🚒 Storytime with Firemen – Firefighters read stories at 605 S Pleasant St, Princeton on Tuesday, April 29, from 11 AM–12 PM. Free family event; subject to change for emergencies.

🎨 Exploring Local History: Women Artists – Learn about Illinois women artists at 24 Park Ave E, Princeton on Saturday, May 3, from 1:30–2:30 PM. Hosted by Bureau County History Center. Free and open to the public.

🏍️ Princeton Swap Meet – A marketplace for motorcycle enthusiasts at Bureau County Fairgrounds on Sunday, May 4, from 8 AM-2 PM. Admission $10.

🥖 Sourdough and Herbs Class – Bake and grow with demos by Sun Oak Farm and U of I Master Gardeners at Bureau Farm Bureau, 1407 N Main St, Princeton on Tuesday, May 20, from 6:30–8:30 PM. $20. Call (815) 875-6468 to register.

🎭Festival 56/Princeton Theater Group will present The Michigan MOMsemble Celebrates Mother’s Day at 7 p.m. Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3.

🧺 Mother’s Day Flea Market – Shop vendors and deals at the Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W Peru St, Princeton on Sunday, May 11, from 8 AM–2 PM.

🎸 Sweetwater at The Hawg House Saloon – Celebrate Memorial Day Sunday with live music at Hawg House Saloon on Sunday, May 25, from 3-7 PM.

🌳 Homestead Lawn Event – A community event at Owen Lovejoy Homestead on Saturday, June 14, from 5-7 PM to raise funds and celebrate local traditions.

🏠 Annual Covenant Children’s Home Reunion – A gathering for past residents, staff, and volunteers at Simon Conference Center on Saturday, June 28, from 10 AM-4 PM. Donations welcome.

🥿 Walk a Mile for Freedom House – A one-mile walk in downtown Princeton to support DV and SV survivors on Saturday, August 2 at 9 AM. Activities, teams, and prizes.

🎸FREE CONCERT: BOBBY JO VALENTINE

On May 11 (Mother’s Day) at 7:00 p.m., a free concert will be held at Open Prairie Church featuring Bobby Jo Valentine. The concert will take place at 25 E. Marion St., and admission is free, with a free-will offering being accepted. Bobby Jo Valentine is described as a heart-opening, award-winning folk/pop artist. Attendees can expect an evening of music that speaks to deep personal themes and emotional journeys.

One of Bobby Jo Valentine’s songs, “Ready to Be Found,” is about the longing to belong. You can listen to it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yFibDE-xZHA. Another song, “The Edge of the World,” explores the courage to say yes to adventure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4ERx6DdXCo. A third song, “Trading In,” reflects on letting go of harmful beliefs and replacing them with better ones: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9Wu0vLqkj8.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌥️Today: A few showers possible. The high climbs to 80°F with north-northeast winds at 10 to 15 mph. Mostly cloudy at night with showers developing and a low of 56°F. Winds from the northeast at 5 to 10 mph. Rain chance 30%.

☁️Friday: Cloudy early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon with a few thunderstorms. High of 69°F with northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph. Skies stay mostly cloudy overnight with a low near 50°F. Winds shift to east-northeast at 5 to 10 mph. Rain chance 30%.

☁️Saturday: Skies are mostly cloudy with a high of 68°F. Winds from the east-southeast at 10 to 15 mph. A few clouds overnight and a low of 48°F. Winds hold steady from the east-southeast at 5 to 10 mph. Rain chance 20%.

☁️Sunday: Clouds increase with a chance of late showers. The high reaches 70°F with east winds around 13 mph. Showers possible at night with a low of 54°F. Winds remain from the east. Rain chance 30%.

Meteorologist Cyle Dickens from KWQC warns of a severe weather threat from Monday into Tuesday next week, with our area in the potential impact zone. Residents should monitor forecasts closely for developing conditions.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.29
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.32
Casey’s West/North: $3.35
Beck’s West/North: $3.35
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.35
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.35

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• The Bureau Putnam Marshall County Health Department in Princeton, IL, is hiring an Environmental Health Sanitarian with a pay range of $22.00 to $25.00 per hour for a 40-hour workweek, offering benefits like dental insurance, health savings account, paid time off, and a retirement plan. The position requires working Monday to Friday.

• The Deputy Assesser Clerk position for Bureau County for $15 per hour performs clerical duties, data entry, operates various office machines, maintains electronic and manual filing system. Receives, verifies, enters and edits data. Posts information as needed, processes forms after reviewing for accuracy, answers incoming phone calls and directs calls accordingly. Greets public and responds/directs to appropriate staff resource. Collects fees, provides receipts, posts transactions, reconciles accounts and prepares a report. Performs general assessments office duties and other duties as required. High school or general education required or any equivalent combination of education. Record keeping and basic general office procedures experienced preferred. Obtain State of Illinois certification as a Certified Illinois Assessing Official (CIAO).

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• The Bureau County Senior Center presents a 6-day, 5-night Lancaster Show Trip July 7–12, 2025, for $929/person (double occupancy), including lodging, 8 meals, multiple shows, and tours of Philadelphia and Amish country. Contact Denise Ihrig at (815) 879-3981 for details; deposit due April 30, 2025.

• Princeton Library Hosting "Pigs in History and Popular Culture" Tuesday Night

• Corner Chair Market is offering a rustic farmhouse-style cabinet perfect for a TV, hallway, or kitchen, featuring open storage and decorative wire-mesh doors. The piece is on display at their store with limited quantities available. Corner Chair Market recommends picking up a meaningful Mother’s Day gift like a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture or a Swedish vase. They’ll be adding new suggestions soon as the holiday approaches.

• Five 22 is excited about a new line of handbags featuring fun colors, cute straps, and various styles now available in-store. Shop Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

• Steven Becker from Thrivent is seeking sales professionals interested in purposeful careers as financial advisors with strong community values. Learn more and apply at thriventcareers.com/43AMWZq

• Dairy Queen at 615 N Main St, Princeton is offering a cupcake deal through Sunday, April 27: buy one cupcake and get the second for half off. Stock is limited, so stop in soon to treat yourself.

• The Princeton Closet is celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week with new clothes and special deals including a free DVD with a $15 purchase and “basket days” Friday and Saturday (12 items for $8, limit 2). Stop by and thank the volunteers who make it all possible.

• Tony’s Butt Shack BBQ & Catering offers rotating weekday specials from 4–9 p.m., including tacos on Tuesday, wings on Wednesday, and shrimp and grits on Friday. Each day brings a new homestyle favorite served by Stef and Heather.

• Four Seasons in Princeton now carries Ilse Jacobsen’s stylish shoe collection, thanks to Nicci Lynn. Visit the store Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to explore this line and more.

• Optimal Health now stocks two new Poppi soda flavors—Cherry Cola and Orange Cream—each with just 5g of sugar. Stop in today and try these refreshing, low-sugar drinks.

• Pin Splitter Lanes is hosting an Adult/Youth League from May 31 through August 2, meeting Saturdays at 10 a.m. for 3 games each week; cost is $10 per person or $20 for an adult/youth pair. Call 815-879-5811 to sign up or visit the counter for more info.

• Myrtle’s Pies is currently closed for vacation from April 20th to May 7th. They will reopen following the break with regular business hours.

• Shane’s Shine Shop launched a new “Budget Buster” car wash package on April 18 for $25, which includes hand wash, towel dry, tire cleaning, and exterior window cleaning. Services are offered at their Custom Car Care Center.

• Apollo Theater Princeton is offering ad space for $350/year on its big screens, allowing local businesses to reach audiences before each movie. Contact them at [email protected] to get your ad on screen by Friday.

• Hungry World Farm invites families to meet baby lambs and goats this Saturday from 9–11 a.m., or attend an evening farm tour and wood-fired pizza event from 4:30–7:30 p.m. The farm is located near Tiskilwa and features interactive animal experiences.

• Cafe Grace is hosting a Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 11 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1009 N Main St, Princeton, IL, with buffet prices ranging from $6 to $28 depending on age; reservations can be made by calling 815-872-4000. Early bird breakfast pricing is available from 8 to 10 a.m. for $12.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is stocked up with summer essentials like gently used swimsuits, sandals, and sundresses at some of the lowest prices in Bureau County. New finds hit the floor daily, making it a great time to save big and refresh your summer wardrobe.

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Lunch & Learn on Friday, May 2 from 12–1 p.m. at the Prouty-Zearing Community Building, 435 S Main St, Princeton, IL 61356. Attendees will learn about Conxxus fiber internet for home and business; register by April 30 at (815) 875-2616.

✉️NEW SUBSCRIBER?

You have access to all previous newsletters: click here to read them.

👉Please, please, please make sure to add the Princeton NOW newsletter email address as a “contact,” “VIP,” or “Whitelist” in your email service. This will prevent it from going to spam or bouncing.

💭REMEMBER IN PRINCETON

🏠PRINCETON HOME FOR SALE

• This home at 719 Park Ave, Princeton, is listed for $315,000 and offers 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 2,840 square feet of space. Built in 1900, it sits on nearly half an acre and features a 2.5-car heated drive-thru garage. The home has been updated with newer windows, vinyl siding, granite countertops, and French doors, with hardwood floors professionally refinished in 2025. There’s a large main-level bedroom and bath, along with a huge master suite that includes a walk-in closet, bathroom, and attached laundry room. Outdoor features include a front porch, gazebo, and stamped concrete patio inside a fenced yard. Its location near Rt 6, Rt 26, and I-180 makes it highly accessible while offering a park-like private lot.

• 22590 1075 North Ave is listed for $245,000. This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home has 2,184 square feet and is located in the Lake Arispie community. It features vaulted ceilings, a stone fireplace, hardwood floors, a master suite with a walk-in closet, and a loft space for an office or play area. The walk-out basement offers storage and access to a fenced backyard extending to the lake inlet.

• 232 N Euclid Ave is listed for $99,900. This 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home offers 1,754 square feet of living space and sits on a 10,836 sq ft lot. Built in 1881, the home includes updates like a half bath on the first floor and a privacy-fenced backyard. The home features a new fridge, appliances that stay, and a driveway that runs from the street to the alley. It is being sold AS-IS, with the front porch needing repair and central air needing replacement.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Thrive on Main – A downtown Sheffield event with mobile boutiques, coffee, florals, home goods, and more on Saturday, May 10, beginning at 10 AM. Family-friendly fun all day.

• Celebrating 25 Years of Excellence: Illinois Valley Community Colleges Revamped Truck Driver Training Program

• Defendants in Mendota, Princeton Arrested on Battery Charges

• The Tiskilwa Community Association has brought back Tiskilwa Gift Certificates, which are valid checks accepted at participating businesses and available year-round at Ron Behrend’s office or Aspen Egan’s. To join the program, email [email protected].

• A woman has been charged after police say she fired a gun during a gas station fight in Kewanee.

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].