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Good morning, Princeton friends. Princeton and Brazil, South America are far apart, but they have some things in common. Both places care a lot about family, friends, and local traditions. Farming is important in both areas and helps support the people who live there. Even though they’re different, both places are full of life and friendly people. Why am I talking about Brazil? Well, check it out below

Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
🇧🇷Get Grady to Brazil
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
🎗️Help Scott Fight Cancer
💼Princeton Businesses
🏐Sports Camps
🐴Wonderful Junction Vacation Bible School
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• KWQC: Hometown Hello: Princeton, Illinois

• BCR: Princeton had three individual conference champions, winning four events in Friday’s Three Rivers Conference boys track & field meet at Sherrard.

• Bureau County Sheriff Report 05-19-2025

• Ten PHS Students Earn Prestigious Seal of Biliteracy Honors for Language Proficiency

• BCR: Bella Clevenger scored twice on Friday to lead the No. 4-seeded Princeton girls soccer team to a 3-1 victory over No. 5 Oregon in the Class 1A Mendota Regional semifinal. With the win, Princeton advances to the regional final, where they will face Mendota, who defeated DePue-Hall 8-0 in the other semifinal match.

• The “More on 34” Father’s Day Weekend Garage Sales are set for June 13–14, 2025, across Bureau and Henry counties. To list your garage sale or highlight a local event like a food stand or car show, email [email protected] by June 4. Sale listings will be printed and distributed regionally.

• The Bureau County Metro Center is now taking registrations for Youth Swim Camp. Improve swimming skills and stay active this summer—register by visiting the Metro Center or online here.

📍Outside City Limits

• Wyanet Summer Festival Bids Farewell After 70 Years of Community Celebration

• Kids with a knack for crafts, baking, or services like dog walking or lawn care are invited to participate in the 3rd annual Children’s Business Fair. The event will take place on Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025, from 5 to 7 PM at Liberty Square. It’s a fun opportunity for young entrepreneurs to sell their products or promote their services. For questions, contact the Walnut Public Library at (815) 379-2159.

• An end of life program helps participants take a proactive approach to end-of-life planning, covering legal documents, healthcare wishes, and financial arrangements. It will be held at the Walnut Public Library on Saturday, June 21st, from 9 AM to 12 PM, and features presentations from local professionals in law, hospice, funeral homes, finance, and banking. Presenters include Jacob J. Frost (Attorney), Kris Reinbeck, RN (HCC), Beth Baker (Grant-Johnson Funeral Homes), Tyler Hansen (Country Financial), and Pam Turner (Community State Bank). You must register for the event—call the library at (815) 379-2159.

• The Walnut Public Library is hosting themed reading sessions for Pre-K through High School students from June 9th to July 16th, with activities ranging from crafts and STEM to gardening and cooking. Sessions are divided by grade: Pre-K & K meet Wednesdays 2:30–3:30 PM, 1st–5th Grade Wednesdays 1–2 PM, and Jr. High & High School Mondays 1–2:30 PM. Activities take place at the library and The Rock, including stories, crafts, nature walks, and cooking. Registration is required—call the library at (815) 379-2159 for assistance.

• From the Buda American Legion Post: Memorial Day Service will be held at Hopeland Cemetery at May 26th at 10 AM.

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• This charming ranch home at 245 N Linn St sits on nearly 2 park-like acres and offers 1,700 sq ft of comfortable living space. It features 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, an updated kitchen with new appliances, and two dining areas perfect for entertaining. Additional highlights include a sunroom with access to a fenced yard, convenient laundry and pantry space, and an office that could serve as a third bedroom. The full finished basement includes a complete in-law suite with its own kitchen, bath, and bedroom. Recent updates include a 2023 A/C unit and iron fencing, and all appliances will stay with the home.

• This well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath ranch at 11 N Beech St offers single-level living with comfort and style. The living room features a beamed ceiling and gas log fireplace, while the master suite includes a walk-in closet and beautifully tiled shower. The kitchen is well-equipped with ample cupboards and a double oven, and the 14x20 screened-in room (added in 1992) provides a peaceful spot for relaxing. The attached, insulated 2-car garage adds convenience, and key updates include a 2017 furnace, A/C, and hot water heater, as well as a 2011 roof. With newer windows and a quiet neighborhood setting, this home is a standout value.

• Located near the Metro Center and Alexander Park, this 3-bedroom, 3-bath home at 854 Kings Cv offers over 2,100 sq ft of comfortable living. The home features a welcoming foyer, spacious living room, and an open kitchen/dining/family room layout. A bright 3-season room adds space for relaxing, and the master suite includes double closets and an updated bathroom with a walk-in shower. The full basement includes a wet bar and another full bath, and the backyard is fully fenced with a paved patio—perfect for privacy and entertaining. This property combines great space, location, and charm—don’t miss the opportunity!

🇧🇷HELP FORMER PHS STAR GRADY THOMPSON GET TO BRAZIL

From his GoFundMe: I am excited to share I have been selected to join the USA D-3 Basketball Team for their Brazil Tour in 2025!

This amazing opportunity will take place from July 7th to 16th. The "USA D-3 Basketball Teams" are made up of talented men's basketball players from NCAA Division 3 colleges and universities across the United States, and I am so honored to be among those chosen to represent our country and the University of Dubuque.

This tour is much more than just basketball. While we will be playing high-level games against teams in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, the trip is also designed to provide a unique international experience focused on educational, cultural, and social growth. We will have the chance to engage with local communities through outreach programs, visiting schools, clubs, and churches, and even hosting a youth basketball clinic. Additionally, we will have the incredible opportunity to explore iconic landmarks such as the Christ the Redeemer Statue and Sugar Loaf Mountain.

The tour begins with an orientation in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Monday, July 7th, before we depart for Brazil that evening. We will spend time playing games in both São Paulo (July 8-9) and Rio de Janeiro (July 10).

I am truly thrilled by the prospect of representing the USA and UD on the court, competing against international talent, and immersing myself in the vibrant culture of Brazil. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me to grow as an athlete and as an individual.

To help make this dream a reality, I have set up a GoFundMe page. Any financial contribution you might be able to offer would be deeply appreciated and would directly support my participation in the USA D-3 Basketball Team Brazil Tour. Your generosity would help me represent our country and UD with pride, develop my skills, and experience a new part of the world.

Thank you so much for your encouragement and any support you are able to provide. It means the world to me!

Support Grady Here

☀️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌦️Today: Showers likely. High 68°F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph. Tuesday night: Mostly cloudy. Low 50°F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.

🌦️Wednesday: Occasional rain showers. High 59°F. Winds NNE at 10 to 20 mph. Wednesday night: Partly cloudy. Low 46°F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.

🌤️Thursday: Becoming sunny. High 65°F. Winds NNW at 10 to 20 mph. Thursday night: Partly cloudy. Low 45°F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph.

⛅️Friday: Partly cloudy. High 69°F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph. Friday night: A few clouds. Low 47°F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.

☀️Saturday: Mostly sunny. High 71°F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph. Saturday night: Partly cloudy. Low 48°F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.14
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.29
Casey’s West/North: $3.29
Beck’s West/North: $3.29
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.19
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.29

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🎉 Coal Creek’s 2nd Anniversary Party – Celebrate Memorial Day weekend at Coal Creek Brewing from May 23–26 with backyard BBQ vibes, daily beer releases, games, and their special “License to Grill” brew.

✂️ Pruning Workshop at Hornbaker Gardens – Learn how and when to prune trees and shrubs at a free hands-on workshop at Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 1140 North Ave, Princeton on Saturday, May 24 at 10 AM. No registration required.

🎸 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.

🐾 Paws on Park Avenue – Dog Parade & Vendor Fair – Bring your pup for a dog parade and vendor fair at Greenfield Retirement Home on Saturday, May 31 from 9 AM–2 PM. Parade starts at 10:30 AM; vendors, BBQ, and more.

🌳 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.

🤼‍♂️ Micro Wrestling at The Hawg House – A 21+ night of body slams, suplexes, and mayhem on Friday, August 1, from 8–10 PM at Hawg House Saloon. Featuring multiple matches and nonstop action under 5 feet tall.

🥿 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.

🎤 Trace Adkins with Brushville – Bureau County Fair – Country star Trace Adkins performs with special guest Brushville on Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 PM at the Bureau County Fair. Tickets available at bureaucountyfair.com.

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🎗️HELP SCOTT FIGHT CANCER AGAIN

From the GoFundMe Page: Hello, my husband Scott was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2021. He underwent chemotherapy followed by the removal of the bottom two lobes of his right lung.

In 2023, his cancer had returned to the remaining bronchial tube, which led to the removal of the entire lung. We thought we had finally beaten it.

Following the removal, we faced a massive infection in the lung cavity that left Scott in the hospital for six weeks with multiple surgeries.

In September of 2024, Scott's cancer had returned, and he underwent radiation. In May, we found yet again his cancer had returned. Scott is undergoing radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy for the next six weeks at the Mayo Clinic.

We have traveled to the Mayo Clinic for the last five years, and because of the multiple appointments daily, Scott will have to stay in the area. We are asking for help to aid in the cost for accommodations for travel and lodging. We are not ones to look for handouts and have really just exhausted all avenues to fight this horrible disease.

Scott is a resident of Tiskilwa, Illinois. He has three beautiful daughters and would give the shirt off his back to help anyone. He has been inspiration during this battle and always has looked light during dark times.

Thank you for any donation; it is greatly appreciated. We have such a great village of supporters. Thank you for reading.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES #SHOPLOCAL

• In Home Care Connection is currently looking for excellent caregivers for our clients (all shifts) that are located in the western Bureau County area. Serious inquiries only! You can apply at www.ihcc.care.

• Optimal Health has restocked Honey Mama’s chocolate truffle bars and they’re currently on sale. Flavors include Chocolate Cake, Lavender Rose, Peanut Butter, and Toasted Almond, plus three new crunch bar options.

• Monical’s Pizza of Princeton shared a variety of coupons valid through 6/2/25. Offers include a 16” Thin Crust 1 Topping Family Pleaser with salad and drinks for $25.50 (online code 161fp), 14” Thin Crust with up to 3 toppings for $18 (code 143top), and 16” Thin Crust or 14” Pan Pizza with 1 topping for $18.50 (code 161top). Dine-in, carry-out, and delivery available.

• Lou’s LaGrotto Pizza Truck is coming to Princeton and Wyanet on Wednesday, May 21. The truck arrives at 4:30 PM, delivering pizzas and nuggets directly to homes. Space is limited, so place your order early by calling 815-223-3083. Cash accepted on delivery.

• Myrtle’s Pies opens for regular hours Thursday–Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM, and Sunday mornings at 9 AM for discounts.

• Join the City of Princeton and Bike & Walk Princeton for a Bicycle Scavenger Hunt in celebration of National Bike Month. Solve location riddles, bike to each site, and take a picture. Submit photos and contact info to [email protected] by June 13, 2025, for a chance to win prizes. Follow along at facebook.com/bikewalkprincetonil.

• Farmer Smoked BBQ Food Truck will be at the Princeton Public Library parking lot on Wednesday, June 25 from 11 AM–1 PM. Enjoy lunch and live acoustic music. Don’t forget to bring a lawn chair.

• Little Blue Dress has launched a new leather belt collection—refined, versatile, and designed to elevate every outfit. Shop in store or online at www.littlebluedressprinceton.com/s/shop.

• Four Seasons is offering 24% off your entire purchase through May 25 with code SHOP. Not valid on previous purchases or certain exclusions. Free shipping on orders $75+.

• Fresh Finds Princeton has new seasonal windspinners, garden flags, and doormats perfect for brightening up your front walk. Stop in to shop the cute new arrivals.

• Philly Factory food truck will be set up Tuesday, May 20 from 4 PM to 8 PM at 15 West Marquette (behind Barrel Society). Their menu features cheesesteaks like the Factory

• A new HIIT + Core fitness class begins May 29 at 9:30 AM at the Bureau County Metro Center’s Aerobic’s Room. Led by instructor Caitlin Meyer, this class includes fast-paced cardio intervals and core-targeted strength training. Open to all fitness levels, it meets Mondays and Thursdays at 9:30 AM.

• Bureau County Family Health now offers online scheduling for new and returning patients at their Princeton office. Visit bpchd.org to book appointments with Catching Joy Midwifery or Collective Family Health.

• On the Homestead CrossFit in Princeton offers weekday classes at 5/6/8:30 AM and 4:30/5:30 PM, plus Saturdays at 8 AM. Summer student memberships run June 1–Aug 31 for $100 unlimited access. Benefits include full-body training, core stability, and strength. Call (815) 219-4150 or visit facebook.com/onthehomesteadcrossfit.

• Pin Splitter Lanes now offers unlimited bowling on Mondays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. for just $10. It’s a budget-friendly way to get some practice in or enjoy a fun night out.

• Main Street Dance Academy will host its Summer 2025 Camps and Intensives beginning with Rising Stars Dance Camp for K–1st grade from June 16–20. Weekly intensives run from June 23 through August 1, offering sessions in Jazz & Hip-Hop, Jumps/Leaps/Turns, Contemporary & Lyrical, and Conditioning & Choreography for students in grades 2–12, with tiered pricing starting at $55 and registration due by June 6.

• 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.

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🐴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

🏐SPORTS CAMPS

Boys Basketball

The 2025 Tiger Basketball Camp will be held June 2–5 at Princeton High School’s Prouty Gym for boys entering 3rd through 12th grade, with sessions divided by grade level. The cost is $50 per camper, and each participant should bring proper shoes, clothing, and a drink—but not a basketball. Led by Head Coach Jason Smith, assistant coaches, and current PHS players, the camp will focus on basketball fundamentals including shooting, defense, passing, and team building. Campers will receive a shirt and may win awards; registration is due by May 20, 2025. Click to sign up

Volleyball

The Princeton Tigresses Volleyball Camp runs June 16–19, 2025, for girls entering grades 3–12, with different time slots based on grade level. The camp costs $65 per athlete or $50 each for families with multiple participants from the same household. The focus is on learning proper volleyball techniques in a fun and competitive setting, covering skills like passing, serving, and hitting, along with team scrimmages. Registration and payment are due by May 23 to secure a spot, and all checks should be made out to Princeton Volleyball. Click to sign up

Baseball

The 2025 Tiger Baseball Camp runs June 9–13 at Prather Field for boys entering 3rd through 9th grade, with two age-group sessions in the morning. The camp costs $40 and emphasizes fundamentals such as hitting, bunting, pitching, catching, fielding, and teamwork. Participants should bring a glove, water bottle, and wear appropriate athletic gear; each camper will receive a camp shirt. Led by PHS coaches and players, the camp promotes skill development, confidence, and sportsmanship in a fun environment. Click to sign up

Football

The Princeton Tiger Football Camp will be held July 21–25, 2025, at Little Siberia Field for incoming 9th–12th grade students, with evening sessions from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. The cost is $60 per athlete or $50 each for families with multiple participants. Players must bring a helmet, shoulder pads, cleats, and shorts, and registration forms and payment are due by July 1 to secure a spot. The camp emphasizes work ethic, team commitment, and preparation for the fall football season under the direction of Coach Ryan Pearson and staff. Click to sign up

Girls Basketball

The Princeton High School Girls Basketball Camp will be held June 9–12 for grades 9–12 and July 7–10 for grades 2–8 at the Prouty Gym. Camp times vary by age group, and each camper will receive a T-shirt, basketball, and daily refreshments. The cost is $50 per athlete or $45 each for families with 2+ campers, with registration due by Friday, May 23. The camp focuses on developing fundamental basketball skills, with an emphasis on learning, competition, and having fun. Click to read more

🍿AT THE APOLLO

LILO & STITCH (PG)

A beloved Disney classic returns! Join mischievous Stitch and his ohana for a hilarious and heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and finding your place in the universe.

• Thursday: 6:00 PM (PJ Premiere)

THE ACCOUNTANT 2 (R)

Ben Affleck returns as the brilliant but dangerous accountant with a lethal skill set. In this action-packed sequel, past secrets resurface and new enemies threaten everything he’s built.

• Daily (Tues–Sun): 4:15 PM & 7:00 PM

• Sunday: Also at 1:30 PM*

• Thursday: 4:15 PM only (Final showing)

THUNDERBOLTS (PG-13)

Marvel’s misfit team unites for one final mission. With grit, humor, and unexpected alliances, this installment delivers explosive action and redemptive arcs for fan-favorite antiheroes.

• Daily (Tues–Sun): 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM

• Sunday: Also at 1:45 PM*

• Thursday: Final day

Want to advertise? Email: [email protected].