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Happy Saturday morning, Princeton. It’s May 3rd, the weather’s doing its best impression of “meh,” and we’ve packed this issue fuller than a Sloppy Joe pizza at Paisano’s.

Let’s check it out.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🐾Paws
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆Princeton People of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
🎠Chicago World Fair
👷Princeton Job Openings
🐴Vacation Bible School
🗺️Letter from Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Reid Smith! 🎉

• BCR: Princeton Elementary seeks 2 board members

   

• A Tribute to Pam Pratt, From the Bureau County Historical Center: The staff and board members at the Bureau County History Center and Bureau County Historical Society are saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague, Pam Pratt [Read More Here].

• The Bureau County Metro Center reminds residents that motor vehicles are not allowed on the walking paths at Zearing Park. With heavy foot traffic during Saturday soccer and flag football, drivers are asked to park in designated areas only.

• RGM: Large Animal Rescue Training for First Responders at Bureau County Fair Grounds on June 1, 2025

• The Princeton Fire Department will host a “Heroes for Life” Boots vs. Badges Blood Drive on Tuesday, May 13 from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM at the fire station. Schedule a time by calling ImpactLife at 800-747-5401.

• Princeton Elementary School District 115 announced the eighth grade graduation date for Logan Junior High. The ceremony will be held on May 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the PHS Prouty Gymnasium.

• Princeton Girls Basketball will host a high school camp June 9–12 and a youth camp for grades 2–8 from July 7–10. Registration forms will be available next week.

• Back in the Day: “Young Ray Guss Jr. completely dominated the Illinois Stockcar Association (ISA) late model division as he won the “Busch 50” special feature Friday night at Princeton Speedway.”

📍Outside City Limits

• 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].

• 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.

• Utica Approves Dog Park, Farm Stand

• Third Thursday Concerts at the Hegeler Carus Mansion

• Not a Scratching Post: Hennepin Gas Leak Believed to be Caused by Itchy Calves

• Three months away from apple season means busy months for Tanner’s Orchard

🐾PAWS ON PARK AVENUE

“Paws on Park Avenue” is happening Saturday, May 31, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM in the Greenfield Retirement Home parking lot at 508 Park Avenue East. The event will feature the always-popular “Strut Your Mutt” Dog Parade. Attendees can browse a variety of offerings at the craft/vendor show and garage sale. There will also be a bake sale and a homemade BBQ meal available for purchase. All food sale proceeds will benefit local animal shelters. Anyone wishing to participate in the dog parade or vendor show must pre-register and fill out the required paperwork. Forms are available on Greenfield’s Facebook page or by visiting the facility directly. For more information, contact Chris at [email protected] or call 815-872-2261.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

☁️Today: A few showers are possible early, followed by overcast skies. High of 60°F with NNE winds at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%. Mostly clear overnight with a low of 43°F. Winds from the south at 5 to 10 mph.

⛅️Sunday: Partly sunny with a mix of clouds. High of 64°F. Winds from the south at 10 to 15 mph. Partly cloudy at night with a low of 46°F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

☁️Monday: Cloudy skies throughout the day with a high near 64°F. Winds from the NNE at 5 to 10 mph. Partly cloudy overnight. Low of 46°F. Winds shift to the south at 10 to 15 mph.

⛅️Tuesday: Partly cloudy with a high near 72°F. Winds light and variable. Mostly cloudy overnight with a low of 49°F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

☁️Wednesday: Cloudy skies continue with a high near 74°F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph. Mostly cloudy overnight. Low of 52°F with ESE winds at 5 to 10 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.19
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.26
Casey’s West/North: $3.29
Beck’s West/North: $3.29
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.29
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.29

Peru Gas 👀

Sapp Bros.: $3.09

🏆PRINCETON PERSON 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].

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• Buttercream Bake Shop is selling mini pill cookies for Nurse Appreciation Week for $3 each, with pickup available Sunday at the Princeton Library from 4:00 to 5:00. Each cookie comes packaged with a fun prescription-themed card.

• Scooter’s Coffee announced that the Peach Bliss Quencher is now a permanent menu item. This refreshing drink, popular for its fruity and vibrant flavor, is officially “here to stay.”

• Hornbaker Gardens invites prom attendees to take photos in their garden center this weekend. Guests are asked to be respectful of a scheduled wedding and avoid the ceremony area near The Barn.

• Boek-el-ZOO is offering 20% off select pets this weekend, including chinchillas, cockatiels, hedgehogs, gerbils, and more. Starter bundles and used housing options are available in limited supply.

• Shannon’s Memorials is offering Turning Hearts medallions and keychains as thoughtful gifts to honor and remember loved ones. These digital tributes provide lasting, eco-friendly memorials and can be ordered now by calling or texting 815-878-3682.

• Wyaton Hills Golf Course will host a Mizuno Fitting Day on Wednesday, May 7, from 2–5 PM. Golfers can call 815-872-2641 to book a personalized fitting session with a Mizuno specialist.

• Paisano’s Ristorante revealed May’s pizza of the month: The Sloppy Joe, topped with mozzarella, beef, veggies, garlic, and pickles. It’s available as a pan pizza or calzone and starts tonight.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream is featuring two May specials: the Sweet & Salty sundae and the Root Beer Float flavor of the month. Their summer hours begin this week, open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 AM to 9 PM..

• Neighborhood Ace Hardware is running a special on Miracle-Gro All Purpose Garden Soil—four bags for just $10, down from $8.59 each. This offer is valid through May 12 for Ace Rewards members.

• Wild Ginger Bistro and Wine Bar invites guests for dinner today from 4:30 to 9:00, featuring sushi rolls and seaweed salad. Brunch on both Saturday and Sunday includes chorizo tacos from 10:30 to 2:30.

• Rachel Rene – Princeton IL has added a 40% off table and is offering 50% off all remaining socks and slippers through the weekend. The store is open Saturday 10 to 4 and Sunday 12 to 4.

• Flowers By Julia shared recent prom bouquet photos and announced that more floral arrangements will be available leading up to Mother’s Day. They’re staying busy wrapping up the prom season.

• Sisler’s Ice Cream just restocked their popular Puppy Chow Popcorn. Customers can grab a fresh bag of this sweet and crunchy treat in-store now.

• The Princeton Closet received a collection of vintage View-Master reels and has them available for anyone interested. The reels feature classic titles and collectible scenes.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is holding a special Mother’s Day event today with giveaways and raffle baskets. Customers can enter by leaving a note about their mom and purchasing tickets for a chance to win a gift basket.

• Corner Chair Market received a shipment of new journals, including gratitude journals, songwriting and travel journals. Visitors are invited to browse the fresh selection of paper goods in store.

• The Milk Moustache is posting display items, furniture, and fixtures for sale as they prepare to close. Shoppers can comment to claim items and arrange quick pickup and payment via Venmo or cash. The Milk Moustache is closing its shop at the end of May and invites customers to redeem gift cards before May 31, 2025. While the retail store is closing, The Elowen Room will remain open for events and creative gatherings.

• Hungry World Farm is bringing back its Wood-Fired Pizza Nights every Saturday from 4:30 to 7:30 PM, starting this weekend. Enjoy farm-fresh pizzas by Chef Andy Lanier in flavors like Spicy Hawaiian, Mushroom & Asparagus, and Signature Cheese, along with garden salad and a free 6:30 PM farm tour for guests. Visitors can snuggle baby goats, enjoy a campfire, pick up eggs or lamb, and even book a farmstay at HungryWorldFarm.com/farmstay.

• In-Home Care Connection Homecare & Hospice is hiring caregivers in the Princeton and Peru area. Applicants can apply online or in person at 680 West Peru Street, Princeton. For more details, call 815-872-7447.

• Scooter’s Coffee is rolling out its summer menu featuring returning favorites like the S’mores Latte and Crème Cold Brew, along with new Red Bull Infusion drinks, XL Blenders, and Oreo® Blenders. Stop by to try something refreshing and new.

• The Knack will host a Mother & Daughter Sip and Paint on May 3 from 5 to 7 PM. The session includes step-by-step painting instruction with a butterfly theme. Register at www.theknackprinceton.com/events or call 815-915-2119.

Today:

• Hornbaker Gardens is offering a hands-on worm composting class with Annie Nichols at 10 AM today. Participants can choose between an observational $10 ticket or a $75 kit that includes worms, a bin, and bedding to take home their own vermicomposter.

• Boek-el-ZOO will feature Flemish Giant rabbits at their Children’s Time today from 12–3 PM, where kids can meet and pet the gentle giants. Children under 10 will also receive a free scoop coupon from Sisler’s Ice Cream.

• Today at 1:30 PM, hear stories of little-known women artists and their legacies in Illinois history during a free event at the Prairie Arts Center. Kristan H. McKinsey will share findings from the Illinois Women Artists Project, which highlights contributions dating back to 1818.

• Hungry World Farm is hosting its 1st Annual Morel Hunting Fundraiser today from 2:30–5:30 PM, with activities including mushroom hunting, wood-fired pizza, and goat snuggling. The event is held on 175 acres in Tiskilwa and promises a fun, rustic afternoon for all ages.

• The Knack is hosting a Mother & Daughter Sip and Paint class today from 5–7 PM, guided by Hannah and her mom Adrienne. For $35 per person, attendees will create a butterfly painting while enjoying a relaxing evening of bonding—snacks and drinks welcome.

Sunday:

• Walneck’s Motorcycle Swap Meet returns to the Bureau County Fairgrounds tomorrow, May 4, from 8 AM to 2 PM. Shoppers can explore deals on bikes, parts, and accessories, with admission just $10.

🎠MAY 3, 1933: CHICAGO’S WORLD’S FAIR BEGINS

On May 3, 1933, Illinois made a bold statement to the world: in the midst of the Great Depression, it would celebrate progress, innovation, and the promise of the future. That day marked the opening of “A Century of Progress International Exposition”—Chicago’s second World’s Fair—on the shores of Lake Michigan.

The fair was designed to commemorate Chicago’s 100th birthday and bring hope during dark times. Construction of the first major exhibits was completed just in time for the opening, and on May 3, the fairgrounds lit up with vibrant colors and dazzling lights, powered entirely by futuristic fluorescent lighting—a first for a large-scale event.

Millions of people would come over the next two years to marvel at inventions like the first fully air-conditioned building, the Homes of Tomorrow (featuring modern kitchens and solar heating), and even the arrival of the German airship Graf Zeppelin. Companies like General Motors, RCA, and Sears introduced technologies that would define the 20th century.

But the fair wasn’t just about technology. It brought together music, culture, science, and international exhibits, inspiring people from all walks of life to dream again. For Chicago and all of Illinois, May 3, 1933, was more than just the start of a fair—it was a spark of hope and imagination when it was needed most.

To this day, the “Century of Progress” remains a proud moment in Illinois history—proof that even during hardship, people can come together to build something beautiful.

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👷PRINCETON JOB OPENING

• Beck’s is hiring a Car Wash District Manager responsible for overseeing multiple car wash locations, ensuring top-notch service, cleanliness, staff development, and profitability. The role involves hiring and managing car wash managers, setting company culture, enforcing accountability, and ensuring all locations meet brand standards. Candidates must be mechanically skilled, able to troubleshoot equipment issues, and understand wash systems including electrical and plumbing operations. Preferred applicants have over five years of relevant experience, strong leadership and communication skills, and demonstrate traits like honesty, humility, and responsibility. Beck’s is a 100% employee-owned company operating fuel, convenience, and car wash businesses across North-Central Illinois.

• Heartland Bank and Trust Company is seeking a full-time Relationship Banker at their Princeton, IL location. This role serves as the frontline representative of the bank, welcoming customers, delivering excellent service, and offering financial solutions. Pay ranges from $17.95 to $23.84 an hour. Responsibilities include creating a personalized customer experience, opening and servicing accounts, promoting bank products, and helping minimize fraud risks. To apply, text “2191” to (309) 322-9911.

• The Bureau County Senior Citizens Association is looking for a full-time Transportation Coordinator/Driver at their Princeton, IL location. Pay starts at $15 an hour, with a Monday–Friday, 8-hour day shift schedule. Responsibilities include safely transporting seniors, maintaining records, inspecting vehicles, and delivering outstanding customer service. Benefits include a 401(k) with matching, paid time off, and a retirement plan. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and strong knowledge of transportation safety regulations.

• The Bureau County Highway Department is accepting applications for a full-time Highway Maintainer based in Princeton, IL. This role pays $29.34 an hour and involves maintaining highways, rural roads, and rights-of-way, including patching pavement, repairing guardrails, and clearing snow or brush. Applicants should have a high school diploma or GED, a valid Illinois CDL, and experience with manual labor, truck driving, and operating heavy equipment. Benefits include dental insurance, health insurance, and a flexible spending account. Applications are accepted online or in-person at 595 Elm Place, Princeton, IL, until Thursday, April 17, 2025.

🐴WONDER JUNCTION VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Wonder Junction Vacation Bible School will be held at Princeton Bible Church from Sunday, June 8 to Thursday, June 12, 2025, running nightly from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. The program is open to children ages 4 (fully potty trained) through 6th grade. The VBS theme is “Marvel at Jesus, Live for His Glory,” aiming to help kids know who Jesus is and what He has done for them. Activities include energetic assemblies with music, wacky intros, and a mission moment, followed by rotation through five fun stations. Registration is free, and a themed music CD is available for $2.50 at the registration table each evening. The event promises a joyful, Christ-centered experience for kids to grow in faith and wonder.

Register here

🗺️LETTER FROM LORI

My father, on the other hand, was Mr. Spontaneity. On a whim, he’d pick up and drive to Florida for a couple of days. A midnight trip to Chicago wasn’t out of the ordinary. He was the man who once came back from a sale barn—with two newborn calves in the front seat of his Ranchero—because they were just too cute. His justification? We had a fenced-in yard. So, Toro and Beauregard found a home on the north end of Hennepin until we moved to a small farm outside of town.

Being raised by two very different types of parents wreaked havoc on my inner dialogue and helped shape my bi-polar personality. Part of me craved organization, but I was also known to jump in the car and head for parts unknown with no real destination. I’ve sought middle ground, but I’m usually one extreme or the other at any given time.

There are benefits to both mindsets. It’s good to know what you’re doing, where you’re going, how you’ll get there, and what you need to have. But there’s also a wild freedom in flying by the seat of your pants and experiencing life in the moment. I’ve loved—and benefitted from—both sides of my personality.

Some days I’m a note-writer with a list to check off. Other days, I get up and let the day unfold at random.

When my children were young, my sister-in-law (at the time) suggested visiting our in-laws in Florida. Around 11 a.m., I phoned my husband (at the time) and told him we were heading out. I didn’t ask permission—it was more of a courtesy call to let him know I wouldn’t be home when he got off work. (I’m not suggesting this as good relationship advice, since we’re now divorced.) By 1 p.m., she and I were packed up with our five kids—all under six—and headed south. We called the in-laws on the way to ask if they could help find a hotel. It was a spontaneous, fun trip, and we didn’t hit many roadblocks.

A few years later, I traveled to Florida again, but it was a completely different story. We were taking the kids to Disney World, and I spent months preparing. I made lists, phone calls, and packed weeks in advance so the five of us could have the best possible experience. I was relentless with my hourly schedule that everyone had to follow—I didn’t want to miss a thing.

So it is with life. We can plan and dream and make lists so we know where we’re going—but sometimes we’re thrown a curveball and have to adapt. Not all plans work out the way we want. Flexibility is key. I’m thankful I grew up with both examples. My mother gave me faith and a sense of direction, so I know where I’m going. My father gave me the freedom to enjoy the journey, even if the path was winding. What matters most is that the destination is the same—and we’ll all be together.

Mom with her lists. Dad with adventure in his eyes. Mom will have the map and be the informative tour guide. Dad will grab my hand and pull me toward all the best places to find joy and fun.

What a glorious time it will be!

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

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