🌨️A Snow Day, A Night to Remember, and a Galentines Party

SPONSORED BY

Good morning, Princeton. Well, thus far we’ve had a quiet winter, and we’re finally getting some major snow. School is cancelled, kids are bundling up, hot chocolate is stirring, and the fire is lit. Drive safely, and enjoy your snow day, Princeton!

Onward.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🎩A Night to Remember
🗓️Upcoming Events
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Opportunities
💼Princeton Businesses
📍Outside City Limits
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
💭Remember When…
💰A Stimulus Payment Text Scam

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

A WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 AM WEDNESDAY TO 3 AM THURSDAY

• Happy Birthday, Renee Tiemann and Sarah Englehart! 🎈 

• The City of Princeton reminds residents that parking on public streets is prohibited within 12 hours after three inches of snowfall until the snow is cleared. Vehicles in violation may receive a citation or be towed at the owners expense. A winter storm warning is in effect from Wednesday at 6 AM to Thursday at 3 AM, with expected snow accumulations of 5 to 8 inches and hazardous travel conditions. The City of Princeton has also announced upcoming changes to garbage collection dates due to holidays. For Presidents’ Day on February 17, collection will take place on February 18.

• Princeton Wrestling is selling Conference Championship gear, with the order deadline set for Wednesday, February 19. Orders can be placed here.

• Princeton Youth Baseball and Softball League is hosting their first in-person sign-up today from 5:00-7:30 PM at the Prouty Building. Online registration remains open at pybsl.org through February 28th.

• The Blue and Gray Ball will take place on March 22 at the Bureau County Fairgrounds, featuring an evening of Victorian-era dancing led by instructors. Attendees are encouraged to dress up and enjoy snacks and a silent auction. Tickets cost $25 per person or $40 per couple, with proceeds supporting Shadows of the Blue & Gray.

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce announced that the 2025 Chamber Classic will take place on Friday, June 6, at Chapel Hill Golf Course. The event benefits the Chambers Building Improvement Grant Program, and sponsorship opportunities are available.

• Princeton Elementary will hold kindergarten registration on February 27-28 at Douglas Elementary, 220 E. La Salle St. Children must be 5 years old on or before September 1 to enroll for the 2025-2026 school year.

• Bureau County Sheriff Report 2/11/2025

• Princeton NOW Premium subscribers now receive:

  🚫Ad free

  ❤️Local Obituaries

  🚔Arrests

  🏡Property Transfers

  🔍Health Department Food Inspections

  💍Marriages

  🏛️Board and City Council Meeting Summaries

  ⏫Upgrade your newsletter today and join 191 others.

🎩A NIGHT TO REMEMBER PROM

“A Night to Remember” Prom will take place on Saturday, April 5, from 5:30 to 8:30 PM at the Bureau County Metro Center, 837 Park Ave. W. in Princeton. This special event is for high school-aged individuals and older with special needs, where each attendee will receive a crown as a reminder that in Gods eyes, we are all Kings and Queens.

Corsages and boutonnieres will be provided, and attire includes dresses or dress pants for the ladies and a shirt and tie for the gentlemen. The evening begins with a Red Carpet Event at 5:30 PM, with attendees encouraged to arrive by 5:15. Refreshments such as cupcakes, cookies, ice cream, and punch will be served, and a photo booth will be available for pictures.

Those needing a caregiver must bring their own. This free event is sponsored by First Lutheran Church in Princeton. RSVPs should be sent to Dianne Van Drew by March 24, via email at [email protected] or by calling or texting 815-677-2263.

🗓️UPCOMING EVENTS

👶Early Beginnings Parents As Teachers is organizing a Valentines Day toddler activity session on Thursday at 10:30 AM. Parents and toddlers can enjoy arts and crafts with washable paint. The event is at 605 S Pleasant St.

🍿Apollo Theater Princeton is showing the premiere of Captain America Brave New World on Thursday at 7 PM. Tickets are available at the box office and online. The theater is located at 455 S Main St.

💝A Valentines Day celebration will take place at Downtown Pub and Event Center featuring DJ Myopic Mycelium playing music all night. There will be drink specials and a lively atmosphere. The event starts at 9 PM on Friday at 432 S Main St.

🚂The Model Train & Toy Show is scheduled for Saturday, February 15 at 9 AM, hosted by Iron Horse Photography at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Attendees can expect to see model train displays and multiple vendors, with an opportunity to view and purchase artwork.

🐕Mardogs Grooming Room is hosting a Valentines Day photo shoot on Saturday from 11 AM to 1 PM. The event includes pre-order treats and a relaxed setting for pet-friendly photos. It will take place at 451 S Main St.

🎸Wreckin Dixie will perform live at Hawg House Saloon on Saturday from 3 to 7 PM. This is the bands first time playing at this venue. The event will be held at 18066 US Highway 6.

🥁Zack Fedor will be performing live at Barrel Society on Saturday, February 22, at 7 PM. He plays a mix of folk and Americana originals along with classic covers. The event will take place at 930 N Main St.

🖼️The Prairie Arts Council is featuring a gallery exhibit by Collette Yelm on multiple dates. The exhibit, Colors by Collette, showcases her pour painting artwork. The gallery is open at 24 Park Ave E on select dates in February from 1 to 3 PM.

🏷️The Huge Winter Garage Sale is set for Saturday, March 8th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Space rental options include a 10 x 10 space with 3 tables for $35, a 10 x 16 space with 4 tables for $60, a 10 x 24 space with 5 tables for $90, or outdoor spaces for $25 without tables. For more details or to reserve a spot, contact Kathy Bauer at (815) 303-2905 or via email at [email protected].

🥞Bureau County Fair is hosting a pancake and sausage breakfast on Sunday, March 2, from 8 AM to noon. The cost is 10 dollars per person. The event will be held at 811 W Peru St.

👕The Model Train & Toy Show is scheduled for Saturday, February 15 at 9 AM, hosted by Iron Horse Photography at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Attendees can expect to see model train displays and multiple vendors, with an opportunity to view and purchase artwork.

🏷️The Huge Winter Garage Sale is set for Saturday, March 8th from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Space rental options include a 10' x 10' space with 3 tables for $35, a 10' x 16' space with 4 tables for $60, a 10' x 24' space with 5 tables for $90, or outdoor spaces for $25 without tables. For more details or to reserve a spot, contact Kathy Bauer at (815) 303-2905 or via email at [email protected].

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌨️Today: Snow overspreads the area with moderate to heavy accumulation at times. High temperatures reach 23°F with northeast winds at 10 to 15 mph. Snow chances remain at 90%. Overnight, snow showers continue early before giving way to clearing skies later. Winds shift northwest at 10 to 20 mph with a low of 3°F and a 50% chance of snow.

☁️Thursday: Morning clouds gradually clear for a mostly sunny afternoon. The high reaches 13°F, with west-northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph. The night remains mostly cloudy with temperatures dropping to 0°F, and southwest winds at 5 to 10 mph.

🌨️Friday: Clouds increase as snow showers develop in the afternoon. The high tops out at 28°F, with south-southeast winds at 15 to 25 mph and a 60% chance of snow. Overnight, snow showers persist with a low of 20°F and southerly winds at 10 to 20 mph. Snow chances remain at 60%.

🌨️Saturday: A potential winter storm is being monitored. Variable clouds with scattered snow showers throughout the day, with a high of 32°F and north winds at 10 to 20 mph. The chance of snow is 50%. The night stays mostly cloudy, with a low of 6°F and northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph.

From the U.S. National Weather Service

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Wednesday, with expected snowfall of 4 to 7 inches, possibly higher in some areas. Moderate to heavy snow will reduce visibility, and hazardous road conditions are expected due to snow-covered roads. North winds of 15 to 25 mph may cause shallow blowing and drifting snow. Residents should prepare now, reconsider travel plans, allow extra time if travel is necessary, and check road conditions before heading out.

There has not been many accumulating snow events of even a few inches in our area this winter, but confidence is high in a plowable snow on Wednesday.

While light snow will begin overnight to daybreak, the main impacting time of snowfall will be Wednesday mid-morning into the afternoon when the heaviest rates result in hazardous travel.

Snow will taper during Wednesday evening, but impacts to roads will likely last through the evening.

While specifics on amounts still remain an uncertainty with this event, confidence is high in at least impacting snowfall rates resulting in several inches for the area, and some higher end totals of 6 to 8 inches in scattered areas remains possible (especially along/north of I-80).

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.19
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.26
Casey’s West/North: $3.39
Beck’s West/North: $3.39
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.39
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.39

👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Pilgrim Park Camp and Conference Center is hiring temporary summer camp staff for the 2024 season from July 1 to August 1. The job includes lifeguarding, supervising canoe and paddleboat activities, facilitating the challenge course, and instructing youth at the archery range. Additional responsibilities include light landscaping, kitchen assistance, housekeeping, and maintenance work. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, with pay ranging from $16.49 to $19.57 per hour and an option for room and board.

• A part-time House Cleaning position at Chapel Hill Golf Course and Event Center pays $15 per hour and involves cleaning residential and commercial areas. Responsibilities include dusting, vacuuming, mopping, sanitizing surfaces, and ensuring bathrooms and kitchens are hygienic. Previous cleaning experience is preferred but not required, with a focus on customer service skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and in a team. The role offers an opportunity to create welcoming spaces while enjoying a fast-paced environment.

• The City of Princeton Board of Fire and Police Commissioners is seeking applications for a lateral-hire list for qualified Police Officers. Please see the attached document for the application packet. The City of Princeton is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

• Gardens seeks friendly individuals for retail positions in the Garden Center, offering pay of $15-$20 per hour. Gardening knowledge is helpful but not required, with both part-time and full-time seasonal roles available from April to October. Candidates must have good work ethics, strong customer service skills, and be physically capable of lifting, bending, and standing for long periods. Benefits include an employee discount, a flexible schedule, and paid time off.

• A full-time Preschool Teacher position at Zearing Child Enrichment Center pays $18-$19.50 per hour, offering benefits like health insurance, 401(k), and paid time off. Candidates should have experience working with children ages 3 to 5 and may qualify through early childhood education coursework or related programs. Responsibilities include using tools like Teaching Strategies Assessments, Ages and Stages Screenings, and Creative Curriculum. The role emphasizes preparing students for kindergarten success in a play-based learning environment, with opportunities for educational support and scholarships.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Optimal Health is offering a variety of Valentines treats, including allergy-friendly options, for school parties and celebrations. The selection includes chocolates, snacks, and cupcakes that are free from common allergens.

• Simply Nutrition is offering protein-packed treats like Chocolate Oreo Protein Balls and Caramel Cookie Dough Bites. Customers can stop by to grab these sweet and nutritious options before they sell out.

• Boek-el-ZOO shared updates on its latest activities, including securing Frosty the tegu in a new enclosure and planning encounters for preschoolers. The shop is also expanding its trading card line and looking forward to upcoming field trips and events.

• Johnsons Carpet Shoppe has received new arrivals in its gifts section, featuring home decor, ceramics, and seasonal items. The shop is open until 1 PM for customers to explore the latest selection.

• Four Seasons is promoting its Inis body care line, which includes body butter, soap, body oil, lotion, and cologne. Customers can visit the store to browse a variety of products.

• Hornbaker Gardens is featuring the David Austin Young Lycidas rose, a fragrant and colorful shrub ideal for Valentines Day gifts. Customers can purchase a gift card or browse a selection of new David Austin roses online.

• Hoffmans Patterns of the Past invites customers to refresh their spring table with Just Flowers by Mikasa. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM.

• Connections Studio is offering classes for all ages, from 9 months to seniors, with registration currently open. Interested participants can visit their website for availability before classes fill up.

• Cafe Grace invites you to celebrate Valentines Day with a romantic dinner featuring a curated menu of appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Reservations for the February 14th event at 1009 N Main Street are limited, so book early.

• Flowers by Julia is offering a Valentines special of one dozen roses arranged in a glass vase for $85. Pre-orders are available on their website with Valentines Day just 17 days away.

• Five 22 has Valentines Day gifts, including earrings and other items, with weekday hours of 10-5:30 and Saturday hours of 10-4 during the winter. Items are selling fast, so shop soon to find the perfect gift.

• Mardogs Grooming Room is hosting a Valentines event on February 15 from 12 PM to 2 PM, featuring a Puppy Photo Shoot and Healthy Heart Treats, with a Valentines Basket Giveaway for participants.

• Friends of Strays has updated its adoption hours, including times on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Appointments can also be scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• Kinetico Water Systems emphasizes the importance of water quality testing for healthier living. They provide insights into common contaminants and how to address them.

✉️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.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Bicyclist Killed In Crash Near Lostant Has Been Identified

• Peru Handles Fire Calls At A Distillery And An Auto Salvage Yard

• Submarine down the Illinois River program planned by Mendota Historical Society

• Teen driver in Chillicothe fatal crash in January facing charges

• Chicago Fire Star Stops By Sublette Fire Department

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This charming home at 1111 N Jacqueline Ln, offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and 1,372 square feet of living space. Recently updated with luxury vinyl plank flooring, this property features a recreation room/family room on the lower level, an inviting eat-in kitchen, and a sunny deck overlooking the backyard. The attached one-car garage and additional storage shed add convenience and functionality. Built in 1981, the home combines modern updates with timeless appeal. Priced at $184,900, it’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy comfortable living in a great location.

• 1402 S Euclid Ave is a stunning Victorian home filled with history and charm, hitting the market for the first time in 33 years. The inviting front porch opens to an elegant entryway featuring natural light, original oak woodwork, and a custom staircase. The main floor boasts a formal dining room, family room, and a modernized kitchen with handmade hickory cabinets and stainless-steel appliances. Upstairs, you’ll find generously sized bedrooms, a unique Coca-Cola sundae gathering space, and a cozy family room with a gas fireplace. This property also includes an expansive unfinished attic and a heated garage, making it an exceptional find for anyone seeking character and functionality.

• The beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home at 1006 W Central Ave, Princeton, offers an array of standout features. From its stunning original woodwork and spacious layout, including a living room, dining room, den, and mudroom, to the large kitchen equipped with Amish cabinetry and a breakfast nook, this home embodies classic elegance and modern comfort. The primary suite is tucked away for privacy, featuring a walk-in closet, glass shower, and double vanity, while the second floor houses three additional bedrooms and a full bath. The property also boasts a 26’ x 26’ garage, a large front porch, a back deck, and a patio for outdoor dining. With updated systems like a 2018 boiler and a central air system, this home provides comfort and convenience for any family.

💭REMEMBER WHEN…

💰STIMULUS PAYMENT TEXT SCAM

From Starved Rock Media

If you get a text message saying you're eligible for a $1,400 “Economic Impact Payment”, delete it, it's a scam.

The Henry Police Department along with Marshall County Sheriff's Office and Putnam County Sheriff's Office are among the law enforcement agencies recently sharing an IRS scam. Those targeted by scammers will get a text supposedly from the IRS that asks for your personal information in exchange for a $1,400 payment to be deposited into your bank account in 1 to 2 days.

The U.S. Government will never contact you via text or email regarding any kind of stimulus or economic recovery payments. Call your police department if you have any questions.

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].