🐔The Wizard of Oz, Santa, and Chickens

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Happy Saturday morning, Princeton. #4 PHS Football (9-1) will play at #12 Chicago King (7-3) today at 3:30 at Gately Stadium. There will be a community sendoff from 10:45 to 11:15 a.m. today at Princeton High School to send the Tigers to Chicago. The game will be available for viewing and listening on Starved Rock Media’s YouTube channel and 99.3 WAJK.

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
✅Things to Do This Weekend
🤲Hands of Hope
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🏆Princeton Person of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
📍Outside City Limits
🎄Christmas Market
🔭A Look Ahead

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday tomorrow, Josiah Gale and Savannah Berlin 🎈

• RMN: Support Princeton with Essential Shampoo and Conditioner Donations

• Here are the election results for Bureau County.

• The Prairie Arts Center’s “Handmade for the Holidays” artisan market will run during the Christmas Walk weekend on November 23 and 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Visitors can browse unique, locally crafted items and join a free ornament-making class for children on November 23 from 1 to 3 p.m.

• The Bureau County Historical Society is raffling a custom-made heart-cut necklace with blue sapphire and diamond accents, valued at $1,995. Tickets are available for $25 each or five for $100, with proceeds supporting the Historical Center.

• The Princeton Tigers and Bureau Valley Storm will face off in their first-ever Alumni Basketball Game on December 22, from 3:30 to 5:30 PM at Bureau Valley High School. For questions or to volunteer, please reach out to Josh Egan at BV via [email protected] or Amber Wise at Princeton via [email protected].

• Princeton’s cross country team showed strong efforts at the Class 1A Sectionals, with Ruby Acker placing 28th (20:09), just missing State qualification by 11 seconds, and Augustus Swanson placing 42nd (17:15), also falling short by 16 seconds. Alexandra Waca (21:57), Natalie Meyer (23:14), and Rebekah Lord (24:22, personal best) rounded out the girls’ team, which finished 13th overall with 328 points, their best sectional finish since 2020.

• Support Shadows of the Blue and Gray by attending the fundraiser at Princeton Culver’s on November 11 from 5-8 PM. Enjoy a meal while contributing to this meaningful cause.

• The Tiger Town Tanglers’ apparel store has reopened, available until November 15 at midnight. Grab your Princeton Wrestling gear before the deadline.

• The City of Princeton will remove summer and fall decorations from local cemeteries starting November 15th. Residents are encouraged to collect any decorations they wish to keep before this date. Winter decorations can be placed after November 15th.

• The Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce invites local businesses to the final Business After Hours event of 2024 on November 21, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Prouty-Zearing Community Building. The event includes networking, community announcements, refreshments, and a door prize giveaway.

✅THINGS TO DO THIS WEEKEND

🐢Boek-el-ZOO invites families to learn about raising chickens today from 10am-1pm with Maubach Farms and interact with live “grow out” chickens. Kids under 10 receive a free ice cream coupon for Sisler’s Ice Cream next door.

🏷️There will be a Huge Winter Garage Sale at Bureau County Fairgrounds today from 8 AM to 2 PM. Admission is free with a food pantry donation, and seller spaces are still available.

🪄Princeton Public Library presents “The Show Must Go On: A Theatrical Wizard of Oz Escape Room” today at 10 AM. Reserve your time slot for this interactive experience where participants become part of a musical backstage adventure.

🎄View original artwork at the Holiday Card Design Contest Gallery Show, hosted by the Prairie Arts Council today, tomorrow, and the 16 from 1-3 PM. Support local artists and purchase cards featuring the winning entry by Maddie Hildebrand.

🎅Santa is coming to the Downtown Pub & Event Center today at 10 AM, a festive event organized by Two Angels. Enjoy the holiday spirit and take photos with Santa in Princeton.

🔃Explore a range of items at the Princeton Swap Meet tomorrow from 8 AM to 2 PM, with admission priced at $10. From motorcycles to clothing, vendors offer a variety of goods for collectors and enthusiasts.

🍿The Apollo Theater Princeton has resumed full hours, showing “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” and “Venom 3” throughout the week of November 8-14. Catch these films, with open-captioned showings available for the last Sunday screenings..

🤲HANDS OF HOPE

Hands of Hope Ugandan Ministry (HOHUM) is currently doing a fundraiser to work towards getting a van for our school over in Uganda. Transportation is difficult/expensive and walking can be dangerous as well as hazardous to their health with the dusty roads. Unfortunately, a couple of our students have had to drop out because of lack of transportation.

This fundraiser is super simple and free. All people have to do is sign into this link and review/survey popular brands they are familiar with.

Choose Hands of Hope from the Dropbox, fill in your information and start surveys. This is a current fundraiser happening right now and goes through November 19th.

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌧️Today: Scattered showers are possible with a high of 57°F and SW winds at 10 to 15 mph. The evening will be partly cloudy with scattered showers, a low of 46°F, and SSW winds at 5 to 10 mph.

🌧️Sunday: Morning rain is possible, then turning partly cloudy with a high of 56°F and S winds at 10 to 15 mph. Evening has a chance of a few showers, followed by partly cloudy skies with a low of 42°F and S winds at 5 to 10 mph.

☀️Monday: Mostly sunny skies with a high of 59°F and SSW winds at 10 to 20 mph. Evening will be partly cloudy with a low of 38°F and S winds at 5 to 10 mph.

Warm Start Predicted for Winter, Snow Potential Still Uncertain

The latest EURO model suggests a warm start to winter, with little chance of measurable snow through mid-November. Historical data shows the first snowfall in this area typically occurs by late November, but recent trends are keeping snowfall at bay. The seasonal outlook also hints at above-average temperatures in December, January, and February, with a jet stream pattern that may limit cold air. However, meteorologists remain cautiously optimistic as other atmospheric cycles could bring colder phases later in December. The EURO’s extended forecast does show snow potential in December, especially around the Great Lakes. This winter’s outlook remains uncertain, with key factors still evolving.

Adapted from tswails.com

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.29
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.36
Casey’s West/North: $3.37
Beck’s West/North: $3.37
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.39
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.38

Peru Gas 👀

Sapp Bros.: $2.74

🏆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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💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• Wild Honey Boutique is open today from 10 to 5:30, featuring cozy apparel and accessories for Tigers fans—perfect for game day! Show your team spirit with their selection of blue and white clothing items.

• Liberty Village of Princeton is hiring LPNs and RNs with competitive wages and benefits; for questions, call 815-875-6600. Enjoy a flexible schedule and a supportive work environment in their healthcare team.

• Myrtle’s Pies is open today from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Sunday at 9:00 a.m. for discount pies until sold out. Special orders for pies are available on Wednesdays and weekends, featuring flavors like blueberry plum peach, caramel apple cheesecake, and butterscotch schnapps. Additional treats include cookies, banana bread, and cinnamon rolls with various icings.

• Grandma Rosie’s Sweet Treats now offers a kids menu with every meal priced at $7, including options like cheeseburgers, hot dogs, BBQ, and chicken strips. Each meal comes with hand-cut fries and a single topping sundae or cone.

• The Bureau County Senior Center’s November calendar includes activities like chair exercises on Mondays, bingo on various days, and a Thanksgiving dinner and coloring contest on November 15. Heart-healthy meals are served daily, offering seniors a chance to socialize and enjoy festive activities throughout the month.

• Four Seasons offers a selection of holiday totes and zip pouches with a 26% discount using code “SPICE” until November 10. Find festive designs perfect for holiday gifting or seasonal flair.

• Shannon’s Memorials assisted Sam and Vikki in preparing a memorial headstone in advance. This thoughtful service allows families to arrange details with care.

• Guys and Gals Salon has a new shipment of Teleties, ideal for stylish hair accessories. Check them out before they’re gone and add some flair to your look.

• Café Grace invites you to enjoy a variety of dinner options, from sandwiches to steak, with a special clams casino linguine tonight. Experience an array of flavors in a cozy setting.

• Sayler’s General Store offers a range of unique jams, including flavors like strawberry jalapeno and bacon. Discover these tasty spreads to add a twist to your pantry staples.

• Hoffman’s Patterns of the Past showcases Spode Woodland serving pieces, perfect for adding charm to holiday meals. These elegant dishes are ideal for lunch, snacks, or desserts.

• Corner Chair Market features modern side tables with oak parquet tops, versatile for any room. Explore their decor options to bring warmth and functionality into your space.

• Optimal Health offers a variety of unique groceries, perfect for adding flavor and variety to your meals. Stop by to discover fun items like flavored cream cheeses, dips, and plant-based alternatives.

• Mavolan’s has fresh arrivals with fun gift options for special girls, including trendy apparel and accessories. Explore their latest selections and find the perfect present today.

• Johnson’s Carpet Shoppe is ready for the holiday season with a range of festive decor. Visit to find everything you need to make your home Christmas-ready.

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📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• John Travolta Lights Up Lasalle with a Surprise Visit to Uptown Grill

• Semi Truck Rollover Causes Major Delays on I-80 Westbound near Sheffield

• Beloved Illinois Spot Named 'Best All-You-Can-Eat Buffet' In The State

• Enjoy a family-friendly Superhero Reading Day at the Walnut Public Library from 10-11 a.m. and the Walnut Rotary Club’s Chili Supper, Dessert Auction, and Music Bingo from 4:30-8 p.m. today. Thanksgiving sales begin at Walnut Acres Country Store on Monday, November 18.

• Reds Bar in Sheffield is hiring a part-time bartender and food runner with flexible hours, available nights and weekends. Interested applicants can stop by to fill out an application.

🎄THE CHRISTMAS MARKET

The Christmas Market in Princeton, presented by Midland States Bank, will take place on December 14th from 10 AM to 8 PM. Hosted at Rotary Park, the event will feature arts and crafts, festive food and drinks, and live music. Local artisans and vendors will display unique items for holiday shoppers.

Visitors can enjoy seasonal treats and beverages while browsing handcrafted goods. The event offers entertainment for all ages, with a joyful holiday atmosphere. Vendor applications are currently being accepted, with more information available at princetontourism.org.

Pop Up Santa Mini

• Personalized Santa Visit: Enjoy a 10-minute private meeting with Santa.

• Photo Package: Receive two 5x7 printed photos (same pose) and one digital image as a keepsake.

• Additional Options: Purchase extra digital images or prints on-site.

• Magic Upgrade: Add a touch of enchantment with a magical edit delivered in a gallery in 1-2 days.

• Free Hot Chocolate: Warm up with one delicious complimentary hot chocolate.

• Holiday Crafts: Keep the kids entertained with festive crafts.

• Packages starting at $125

Family Christmas Portraits

• Cozy Christmas: Snuggle up in your pajamas and enjoy a festive atmosphere with our warm, inviting backdrop.

• Elegant Holiday: Dress to impress and create stunning portraits in front of our Farm Fresh Christmas Tree backdrop.

• Packages starting at $125

Santa’s Magical Adventure with Santa John (Original Santa for returning clients)

• One-on-one time with Santa: Your children will have the chance to chat with Santa, share their Christmas wishes, and receive a gift.

• Story time with Santa: Snuggle up with Santa and enjoy a heartwarming Christmas story together.

• Cookies: No Santa visit is complete without Mrs.Clauses delicious cookies.

• Beautiful, lasting images: Our experienced photographer will capture precious moments of your children's magical Santa experience.

• More than just photos, it's a tradition!

• 30 minutes —$325

🔭A LOOK AHEAD

Princeton Swap Meet (Sunday, November 10th): From 8 AM to 2 PM, enjoy the day at Walneck’s Motorcycle Swap Meet, located at 811 W Peru St, Princeton. Featuring an array of items from British, American, and Japanese goods to leather, t-shirts, and vintage finds, this event has something for everyone. Admission is $10, and vendors can secure a space for $50 by calling 630-985-2097. Don’t miss the chance to clean out your garage or discover a new treasure at this exciting community event.

Model Train Fair & Farm Toy Show (Saturday, November 16th): From 9 AM to 2 PM at the Bureau County Fairgrounds, located at 811 W Peru St, this event showcases HO, N, O, and G scale trains, Thomas toys, farm toys, and a wide selection of collectibles. Attendees can explore Hot Wheels, Ertl, NASCAR merchandise, and books, with admission set at $5. Vendor spaces are available, starting at $35 for a 10x10 space with three tables. For more details, visit www.bureaucountyfair.com or contact Kathy at [email protected] or 815-866-3606 after 5 PM.

2024 Holiday Market at The Elowen Room (Saturday, November 23rd – Sunday, November 24th): Support local artists and makers during this two-day Holiday Market from 10 AM to 4 PM each day! Featuring 8-10 vendors showcasing unique handmade items perfect for holiday gifts and décor. The event will also include festive holiday music and a cozy coffee bar for a warm, cheerful shopping experience. Located near the trolley stop on the North End of Main Street, it’s part of Princeton’s Christmas Walk Weekend, so make sure to stop by!

Home for the Holidays Christmas Light Drive-Thru (November 29th - December 25th): Drive through the dazzling holiday lights at the Bureau County Fairgrounds. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Sundays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Special openings on December 23rd, 24th, and 25th. Hosted by the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce and Bureau County Fair.

Brunch with Buddy the Elf (Saturday, December 7th): At 11 AM, join the festive fun with Buddy the Elf at Cafe Grace, 1009 N Main St. Expect holiday activities and a “buddylicious” feast.

Trio: Barrel Society (Saturday, December 7): Join The Bart Attacks at the Barrel Society for an evening of live music from 7 to 10 PM. This is their debut performance, and they are excited to perform down by the river. Make sure to check it out for a great night of entertainment!

⛷️LETTER FROM LORI

I have never had the pleasure of snow skiing. Being afraid of heights, I have never felt the need to strap a couple of sticks to my feet, get dragged up a mountainside on a rickety ‘lift,’ only to be dropped at the top and propelled through the cold and snow to the bottom. The thought has simply never appealed to me. Call me crazy!

My mother, however, once thought it might be a good idea. I’m not sure if she really wanted to try skiing or if my dad somehow conned her into it. My mother isn’t known to be a big risk-taker, so I can’t imagine it was her idea. Maybe the allure of scenic Colorado pictures was just too tempting for her. Over the years, she’s told us the story of her one big skiing experience.

It seems she went through all the necessary steps to reach the top of the mountain. She donned the gear, took the mini-course on how not to hit a tree at blinding speed, and learned the basics. Then, she climbed aboard the lift, looking particularly stylish in her ‘70s snow bunny outfit, and made it to the top.

Once there, however, she discovered she was too frightened to actually launch herself down the side of the mountain. She recalls feeling embarrassed as the precocious children from her instructional class raced past her, confidently hurling themselves down the slope and somehow avoiding trees and other obstacles—like my mother, who was frozen with fear!

She says her salvation came in the form of a snow-conditioning truck. This vehicle’s job was to descend the mountain and prepare the snow for safer skiing. My mother got behind it, pointed her toes inward to stay right behind it, and followed it down the mountain to safety. She knew she had to follow that truck; with her limited skiing skill, straying from the path it prepared would have been disastrous.

Isn’t our walk with Christ like that? We know so little, while He knows so much. Why would we want to be anywhere but right behind Him, following Him to the safety of the eternal lodge, complete with a roaring fire, snug blankets, hot cocoa, and marshmallows? Why stray from the path only to encounter icy spots, trees, or maybe even a rabid raccoon? Focus on His taillights, and He will lead you exactly where you need to be!

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

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