🪐Stargazing, a Homestead Schedule, and Downtown Liquidation

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It is a brilliant, exceptional, invigorating, and dazzling Saturday in the most delightful town on earth: Princeton, Illinois. One of Deb and I’s first dates was at Zearing Park, on top of dugout, stargazing (take notes, boys). Stargazing is really peaceful.

The skies over Princeton are putting on a show with seven planets visible. Mercury and Venus dip below the horizon before 9 PM, but the real action starts after midnight with Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn making their appearances. If you're up late (or early), grab some binoculars to catch Uranus and Neptune in the early morning, all while the Perseid Meteor Shower adds a little extra sparkle leading up to its peak on August 12. I really like looking at those stars up there.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅Places to Go This Weekend
🎉Homestead Festival Schedule
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
👏Princeton Couple of the Week
🌽Sweetcorn for St. Jude
💼Princeton Businesses
🔗Top Links of the Week
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Openings
📍Outside City Limits
🏠Home For Sale
🧢Lego Homestead Competition
✝️Letter from Lori

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💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Joanne Imsland and Hannah Isaacson! 🎂

• WQAD: The Princeton DMV reopened on July 31 as a "one-stop-shop" after a temporary closure, combining vehicle and driver services at the same counter. Visitors can apply for or renew driver's licenses and IDs, register vehicles, order license plates, and join the Illinois Organ and Tissue Donor Registry. The facility is among the first in the state to receive this type of renovation.

• The Second Story Teen Center recently received generous support from the community for its new building project. The Edward Jones offices of Princeton made a significant contribution of $20,115, marking a major boost for the center's development. Additionally, the Covered Bridge Barbershop Chorus of Princeton donated $350, further helping to advance the construction efforts.

• Starved Rock Media: Bureau County's Red Covered Bridge remains closed. The Illinois Department of Transportation's Paul Wappel told 103-9 WLPO August 1 that there is little new to report.

• The Magi Baby Chest at St. Louis Parish will be open today from 9 AM to 12 PM. Everyone is welcome to stop by, with a suggested $5 donation per family that includes a coupon certificate. This is a great opportunity to find baby items and support a good cause.

• The Prairie Arts Council presents "Bring Him Home: Opera Concert for the Arts," featuring Dane Suarez performing a mix of arias, art songs, and contemporary music. The event includes a Gala Experience on Saturday, August 10, with a performance at the Prairie Arts Center Theater, and a matinee on Sunday, August 11, at Princeton High School; tickets can be reserved by emailing [email protected] or calling 815-875-2631 x 1014.

• The City of Princeton is seeking volunteers for the Historic Preservation, Bicycle and Pedestrian, and Public Art Commissions. These commissions meet monthly to perform tasks and recommend policy to the City Council, focusing on community development projects. Interested individuals can contact Michael Zearing for more information and to apply.

• The Princeton Tigers Athletic Booster Club has opened their "Fear the Stripes" store. The store will close tomorrow, and portions of the sales go directly to support the football team.

✅PLACES TO GO THIS WEEKEND

• Start your day early today at the Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days with the 5K race at East Park at 8:00 AM (make sure you pre-register by July 15th!). Enjoy the Historical Society’s Museum on Main and Classic Rides Display from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and don't miss the "Memories From The Past" Parade on Main Street at 10:30 AM. The day is packed with activities including bouncy houses, waterslides, a bean bag tournament, and even kids water fights with the Tiskilwa Fire Department, ending with live music in the beer garden by Brushville from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Then wrap up the festivities with a peaceful Community Outdoor Church Service tomorrow at the West Park Shelter at 10:30 AM. This event offers a reflective and community-centered conclusion to the Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days. Enjoy the final moments of the festival in the serene park setting.

• Kick off your Saturday morning by exploring the Art District with a stroll starting at 9:00 AM at 952 N Main St. Visit a variety of local businesses, including Parlor909, Sophisticuts Salon-Spa, and Cafe Grace, among others. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the local arts and support small businesses.

• Join Ashton Cain today from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Boek-el-ZOO to learn about rat ownership and meet his pet rats. Ashton will share the benefits of having rats as companions and interact with attendees, making it a fun and educational experience. This event offers a chance to discover why rats might make a great addition to your household.

• This afternoon from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, treat yourself to seafood delights at the Barrel Society, located at 930 N Main St. Enjoy Argonaut Co.’s famous Lobster Rolls, Shrimp Rolls, freshly shucked Oysters, and seafood boils. Pair your meal with a selection from the Barrel Society's extensive offering of cocktails, beer, whiskey, and wine.

• Tomorrow, Sunday, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, visit the Prairie Arts Center at 24 Park Ave E to experience Shannon Slaight’s art exhibit, "Shape-Shifter." This gallery show continues to showcase her unique artistic perspective. It's a perfect Sunday afternoon activity to enjoy some local art and refreshments.

🎉HOMESTEAD FESTIVAL SCHEDULE

Get ready to celebrate at the Homestead Festival! This jam-packed weekend is bursting with activities for everyone, from history buffs to music lovers, foodies to families. Here’s a peek at what’s happening, complete with times so you can plan your perfect festival experience:

Thursday, September 5th

• 5:00 PM: Kick off with a fascinating look at the Quilts of the Underground Railroad at the Sash-Satafer-Matson Building.

• 5:45 PM: Honor local legends with the Walk of Fame Dedication: Virgil Fox at Apollo Theater.

• 6:00 PM: End your evening grooving to Fleetwood Mac Tribute at the Down on Main Summer Street Concert on South Main Street.

Friday, September 6th

• 1:00–4:00 PM: Dive into history with Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours.

• 5:00–9:00 PM: Enjoy an evening of music with concerts at Soldiers and Sailors Park, featuring Dylan Schneider and Rodeo Drive.

• 5:00–7:00 PM: Satisfy your sweet tooth with the VIP Dinner and Sister’s Ice Cream at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

• 5:00–7:00 PM: Keep the kids entertained with a LEGO Design Competition at Prairie Arts Center.

• 6:00–8:00 PM: Don’t miss the Twilight Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

• 6:30 PM: Tune in for the Homestead Festival Announcements, including the Grand Marshal, Jr. Woman’s Club Baby Contest Winners, and the Window Display Contest Winners at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

Saturday, September 7th

• 8:30 AM: Start your day early with the Underground Railroad 5K Race at Bureau County Metro Center (Race starts at 9:00 AM).

• 8:00 AM–12:00 PM: Get competitive at the 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament at Alexander Park (Register onsite until 9:15 AM).

• 9:00 AM–4:00 PM: Explore the Beat the Game Pit Arts & Crafts Show at the Courthouse Lawn.

• 9:00 AM–4:00 PM: Discover local treasures at the Homestead Festival Country Fair at the Heartland Bank South Parking Lot.

• 10:00 AM–2:00 PM: Take a stroll through history at the Bureau County History Center.

• 1:00–4:00 PM: Another chance to explore the Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours.

• 1:30 PM: Don’t miss the festival’s highlight—the Homestead Festival Parade.

• 7:30 PM: Cap off your day with the Concert & Family Fun at Rotary Park, featuring Steve Ray Vaughn Tribute: Wall of Denial and a free outdoor movie with popcorn and root beer floats at Evangelical Covenant Church.

Sunday, September 8th

• 6:00 AM–3:30 PM: Start your Sunday right with the 13th Annual Homestead BBQ Rib Cook Off at the Central Bank Parking Lot.

• 8:00 AM–12:00 PM: Enjoy a hearty Pancake & Sausage Breakfast at the Moose Lodge.

• 8:00 AM–3:00 PM: Spend your morning browsing the Homestead Festival Flea Market at the Bureau County Fairgrounds.

• 9:00 AM–3:00 PM: Watch talented artists in action at the Bryan Chain Saw Carvings at Bureau County Fairgrounds.

• 10:00 AM–4:00 PM: Let the kids have fun with Pony Rides & Kids Activities at the Bureau County Fairgrounds.

• 11:00 AM–5:00 PM: Indulge in delicious food at the Bureau County 4-H Pork Cookout at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

• 1:00–4:00 PM: Another chance to explore the Owen Lovejoy Homestead Tours.

• 3:30 PM: Wrap up your weekend with a chance to win big at the 50/50 Raffle Drawing at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

There’s no better way to experience Princeton’s rich history, great food, and fantastic fun. Whether you’re a long-time local or a first-time visitor, this festival is sure to leave you with warm memories and plenty of smiles. Don’t miss out—join us for an unforgettable weekend!

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

☀️Saturday: Expect plentiful sunshine with a high near 90°F. Winds will be from the NW at 5 to 10 mph. In the evening, skies will remain clear, but fog is likely to develop overnight. The low will be around 66°F with light and variable winds.

🌤️Sunday: The day will feature a mix of sunshine and clouds, with a high near 90°F. Winds will be light and variable. Sunday night will have a few clouds, with a low near 70°F and light, variable winds.

🌦️Monday: Partly cloudy skies are expected during the day, with a high around 90°F. There is a possibility of a stray shower or thunderstorm. Winds will be from the SW at 5 to 10 mph. The evening will become overcast with rain showers at times and a low of 67°F. Winds will be ESE at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain is 50%.

Prepare for warm temperatures over the weekend, with potential for showers as the new week begins.

⛽️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: $3.69

👏PRINCETON COUPLE OF THE WEEK

Jeff and Lisa Mangrich

Reason for nomination: “They are always donating items to various places in town through their business, Downtown Liquidation. They contribute to schools, Magi Chest, animal shelters, and more. Additionally, they consistently sponsor events, teams, and organizations in the community, always looking to help others. They do all this while running their business with a smile, excited to greet customers and get to know everyone who enters their store.”

Wow, this is what Princeton is all about! Congratulations, you two. You’ve won the Princeton Couple of the Week!

Did someone go the extra mile? Did a Princeton Person bless you or someone else you know? Nominate them, give me the details, and they may be chosen as the Princeton NOW Person of the Week.

Nominate your Princeton Person of the Week by emailing your nomination to [email protected].

🌽SWEETCORN FOR ST. JUDE

Today marks the final weekend of the Sweet Corn for St. Jude fundraiser at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 320 Park Avenue East. This event has been a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fresh sweet corn while supporting a great cause. The fundraiser runs from 10 AM to 2 PM, offering the convenience of delivery and curbside pickup. There is no set price for the sweet corn, so donations of any amount are appreciated. Orders can still be placed all day by texting or calling 815-866-4735. You can also call the church at 815-875-1306 and leave a voicemail to place your order. Payments are accepted via cash, card, Venmo, Apple Pay, or PayPal, with payment due at the time of order. This is a great way to contribute to St. Jude and enjoy some delicious sweet corn at the same time. Whether you’re picking up for yourself or arranging a delivery, your participation makes a difference. Don’t miss out on this final chance to support a wonderful cause!

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

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• Neighborhood Ace Hardware is holding a bucket sale this weekend. When you purchase a 5-gallon bucket for a $5 donation to the Children’s Miracle Network, you’ll receive 20% off nearly everything you can fit in the bucket. All donations go directly to a local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.

• Crazy Eight Homestead Farm Stand will be open today, starting at 9 AM until they sell out or 7 PM, whichever comes first. The address is 24797 1900 N. Avenue.

• Mattie’s on Main invites you to stop by and explore their selection of amazing finds. Whether you’re looking for unique antiques or charming home decor, there’s something special waiting for you. Visit and discover hidden treasures to add to your collection.

• Join Sophie and Andrew Niewiara at the Senior Center for a virtual journey to Italy. They will be presenting a slideshow showcasing the beautiful country of Italy, with refreshments to follow. To sign up, contact Sam at the Senior Center.

• Princeton Dental Care is offering a special promotion on their whitening kits for the month of August. Enjoy a 25% discount on the kits and brighten your smile. Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer!

• Shane’s Shine Shop is offering a 20% discount for all teachers and staff to get ready for the new school year. Show your appreciation for all they do by taking advantage of this special offer. Book your appointment now and give your vehicle the shine it deserves.

• The Apollo Theater has announced its showtimes for this week. Catch Deadpool & Wolverine today at 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM, with Sunday showings at 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 7:00 PM. You can also watch Twisters on today at 4:15 PM and 7:15 PM, with Sunday showings at 1:15 PM, 4:15 PM, and 7:15 PM. The last show on Sundays is open captioned.

• Wild Honey Boutique is featuring the new Replay sweatshirt in teal from ZSupply. Available in sizes XS to Medium for $79, this sweatshirt is the perfect length and weight for the upcoming season. Hurry in to grab yours before they’re gone!

• Come laugh with the Bureau County Senior Center as certified laughter leader Chris Thompson from Greenfield Retirement Home leads a session on August 8th from 10:30-11:00 AM. This free event promises smiles and fun for everyone.

• Corner Chair Market is featuring a versatile piece of furniture that can be used as a shelf, TV table, plant table, or side table. This multifunctional piece is ready to go and perfect for any space. Stop by to see how it can fit into your home decor.

• Eclectic Joy has restocked their popular Naked Bee products, and they are available today from 10 AM to 5 PM. This is the perfect opportunity to shop for these sought-after items. Visit the store to check out the new arrivals and stock up on your favorites.

• Sisler's Ice Cream is celebrating the month with two special treats: a Cotton Candy Milkshake topped with whipped cream and cotton candy crunch, and a Strawberry Lemonade Float featuring strawberry ice cream, lemonade, lemon-lime soda, and whipped cream. These limited-time offerings are only available this month, so make sure to try them while you can.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is offering a 50% discount on all swimsuits and swimwear. It’s the perfect time to shop for summer essentials and update your wardrobe. Don’t miss out on these great savings while they last.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is bringing back their popular “Elote” pizza for the month of August. This pizza features fire-roasted sweet corn from Boggio's Orchard and Produce, a homemade Chipotle Mayo base, mozzarella cheese, parmesan, and a cilantro-lime crème drizzle. Available with or without hot Cheetos, this unique pizza is a must-try this month.

• The Princeton Closet is featuring a variety of back-to-school items this week. Shoppers can find backpacks, school supplies, and even furniture perfect for a dorm room or apartment. Visit the store to discover these exciting treasures and get ready for the upcoming school year.

• Rachel Rene is currently hiring for a part-time sales associate and production assistant. The position requires availability 1-2 days a week and on weekends. If you’re looking for an opportunity to join a creative team, apply now!

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🔗TOP LINKS THIS WEEK

• Nestled just blocks from Zearing Park, the charming 503 Billings St is a 2-bedroom, 1-bath ranch home, priced at $149,500. This cozy home features new hardwood floors throughout the living spaces, a kitchen with room for a dining table, and a spacious laundry area.

• OSF HealthCare is conducting a Community Health Needs Assessment and invites public participation. The survey, which takes about 10 minutes to complete, seeks to gather input to address pressing healthcare needs in the community. Your responses are anonymous and will help shape future healthcare services.

• Starved Rock Media: Eighteen-year-old Hannah Hubinsky of La Salle was chosen as Miss Bureau County Fair. She also took home the title of Miss Photogenic.

👷PRINCETON JOB OPENINGS

• Casey's General Stores is hiring full-time Team Members. This role involves creating a welcoming environment, handling cashier duties, stocking, and food preparation. Benefits include flexible pay options, health and dental insurance, and opportunities for career growth. No prior experience is necessary, as training will be provided to those eager to learn.

• Prime Quarter Steak House is seeking a part-time Dishwasher. The role involves maintaining a clean and organized kitchen by washing dishes, pots, and pans. Applicants should be able to work in a fast-paced environment and lift heavy objects. Benefits include employee discounts and opportunities for advancement.

• Sullivan's Foods is looking for a part-time Cashier. The role involves providing exceptional customer service by operating the cash register, assisting guests, and ensuring accurate transactions. This position is ideal for friendly and dependable individuals who enjoy interacting with customers. Applicants will be part of a supportive team in a vibrant work environment.

• Taylor's Way is offering a full-time Tree Climber/Trimmer position, paying up to $25 per hour. The job involves tree trimming through climbing or bucket truck operation, requiring experience and a valid driver's license. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k) matching, on-the-job training, and opportunities for advancement. Applicants should be friendly, responsible, and able to work some Saturdays during peak season.

• Walmart is hiring part-time Meat/Produce Team Associates, offering a pay range of $15 to $22 per hour. The role involves keeping the Fresh area stocked, rotating products, and maintaining food safety standards. Walmart provides competitive pay, performance incentives, health benefits, and paid time off, along with education benefits through their Live Better U program. This position is ideal for individuals looking to work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for career growth.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Tiskilwa is inviting high school alumni to pick up old trophies

• Rossy's BBQ Joint brings authentic barbecue flavors to the heart of the community, offering a unique blend of classic favorites and innovative twists. Their menu features tender brisket, melt-in-your-mouth pulled chicken, and creative sides designed to satisfy both barbecue enthusiasts and novices. Located at 214 E Main St in Wyanet, Rossy's is open Friday and Saturday from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

• Join The Shed Tap N Grill for their weekend brunch starting this Sunday, August 4th, from 8 AM to 2 PM, featuring bottomless mimosas. If you miss this weekend, don’t worry—brunch will be served every Saturday and Sunday during the same hours. They’ll also have smaller happy hour special menus from 2 PM to 4 PM, so be sure to check their page for more details.

• Avanti Foods is ready for the season with fall gifts now available and select items marked down. They are also offering 15% off on all summer gift items while supplies last. Stop by to get your hands on some seasonal decorations and deals before they’re gone!

• Illinois Bug Warning: The Lone Star Tick Can Make You Really Sick

• Illinois human trafficking sting: 5 arrested

Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days

Today

• Start the day with a 5K race at East Park at 8:00 AM, then visit the Historical Society’s Museum on Main and Classic Rides Display from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Enjoy the parade at 10:30 AM, followed by lunch at the Community Church from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, and fun at the beer garden and bouncy houses throughout the day. The evening wraps up with live music by Brushville in the Beer Garden from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Tomorrow

• The weekend concludes with a Community Outdoor Church Service at the West Park Shelter at 10:30 AM.

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This enticing three-bedroom, two-bathroom home at 537 Woodland Drive, Princeton, offers a delightful open floor plan perfect for entertaining, complemented by a cozy gas fireplace visible from the kitchen. The primary suite is conveniently positioned near the kitchen, and a multi-functional laundry area includes a desk nook. The spacious unfinished basement offers endless possibilities for expansion, with egress windows and rough-ins ready for an additional bathroom. Outdoors, enjoy a fully fenced yard with a large deck, updated landscaping, and a heated garage, all making this home a haven for relaxation and enjoyment.

• For a serene living experience, the beautifully updated home at 673 Anita Ln offers a peaceful retreat in a charming subdivision. Built in 1990, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath property features 2,582 sqft of spacious interiors, including a cozy living room with a gas fireplace visible from the eat-in kitchen adorned with granite countertops. The home boasts a large deck and an above-ground pool ideal for entertaining or relaxing outdoors. Priced at $324,900, it's a ready-to-move-in home that provides ample room for relaxation and storage, along with a partially finished basement that offers extra living space and a potential fourth bedroom.

• Located at 673 Anita Ln this immaculately maintained 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom ranch offers a move-in ready sanctuary priced at $324,900. The property features a welcoming eat-in kitchen with granite countertops and modern appliances, flowing into a cozy living room complete with a gas fireplace. The home includes a master suite with a spacious bathroom and walk-in closet, leading out to a generous deck and inviting above-ground pool—perfect for entertaining. Additional amenities include a partially finished basement with extensive living space and the potential for a fourth bedroom, enhancing this home’s appeal as a perfect family residence.

🧢LEGO HOMESTEAD FESTIVAL DESIGN COMPETITION

The Prairie Arts Center is thrilled to host the Homestead Festival Design Competition, sponsored by Studio K Architecture. This exciting event is open to LEGO enthusiasts aged 3 and up, encouraging participants to display their original LEGO creations that reflect the theme "Back to Our Roots." Entrants are divided into four age categories: 3+, 7+, 11+, and 17+, with prizes awarded for each group.

Participants should drop off their models on August 28 or August 29 between 4 PM and 6 PM at the Prairie Arts Center Gallery, located at 24 Park Ave E. It's important to note that only My Own Creation (MOC) designs are permitted, and pre-made sets or Duplo Legos are not allowed. Each creation should have a title.

The public can view these imaginative designs and cast their votes on August 31 and September 1 from 1 PM to 3 PM. The winners will be announced during an opening reception on September 6 from 5 PM to 7 PM. The gallery will also be open for viewing on September 7, 8, 9, 15, 21, and 22 from 1 PM to 3 PM each day. The event concludes with a model pick-up on September 22 from 3 PM to 5 PM.

For those needing special arrangements, please contact Libby at [email protected]. This community event promises to be a fun and creative showcase, inviting everyone to let their imagination shine.

✝️LETTER FROM LORI

I pulled this writing from an old blog I wrote the year I turned 39. Yesterday I turned 57 years old, so I guess I'm MANY more days closer to Jesus, but I'm not good at math, so I'll let you figure it out:

My 11-year-old started my day by leaving me the sweetest homemade card. I found it on my desk at 6 AM when I awoke. Not much—short of a smack to the head—will wake you up like these words: "Dear Mom, I just want you to know that being one year older is not too bad because the older you are, the faster you die, and the faster you die, the faster you get to see Jesus." Now, I can't argue with the sincerity of the logic, but the concept was hard to wrap my head around.

My mother tried to make me feel better by explaining that this is just one of the blessings of raising children in a Christian household. They understand the joy of meeting Jesus face to face. My 6-year-old declared that when he grew up, he wanted to be dead so he could be with Jesus. OUCH! Moms don't like to hear that, but I DID like to hear that he was confident he WOULD and that he was actually looking forward to it.

I decided to turn my uncertainty about the matter into a positive and made my theme for the day: "ONE DAY CLOSER TO JESUS." Wouldn't it be nice if we could all live our lives with that phrase as our theme? So often, we get wrapped up in 'the end' and forget that it is actually our earthly goal.

I have always admired people who don't fear death. I have always found inspiration in visiting the terminally ill who embrace it. I have tried to remember this strength and courage when talking to those left behind, for we know that is where the grief belongs. The person fortunate enough to meet Jesus face to face is smiling. It is us who are crying. In our humanness, we forget the glory. We wallow in our sorrow, and when we can finally come through to the other side of our frailty, it is THEN that we can see the blessing for what it really is and declare... One day closer to Jesus!

Lori owns the Boek-el-ZOO in Princeton. It’s not just a pet shop — it’s an experience!

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].