🎟️Tickets Contest, Toll Scams, and Farm to Table

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Good morning, Princeton. It’s my beautiful wife’s birthday tomorrow. To my wonderful wife, Deb: you're not only an incredible musician and artist but also a shining example of faith, grace and beauty. You are the glue to our family, a beloved daughter, and a trusted friend — you are an encouragement to everyone around you. I'm so thankful for you every day and love you more than words can say.

Alright, that’ll do. Let’s go.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🚨Toll Scam
🌤️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
💼Princeton Businesses
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
🏡Home for Sale
🎸Local Music
📍Outside City Limits
🗓️Princeton Upcoming Events
🍿At the Apollo
🍅From Farm to Table

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Victoria Yepsen!🎂

• Bureau County Fair is running a contest to win two free tickets to the Mitchell Tenpenny concert with special guest Lauren Alaina on August 22nd. To enter, like their page, like the post, tag two friends, and share the post. Tickets for the concert can be purchased online at www.bureaucountyfair.com, and the winner will be announced on July 12th.

• Illinois police are making more traffic stops: Study

• Illinois Residents, Avoid Answering Calls from These 8 Area Codes

• Connections Studio is holding open auditions for the 2024-2025 season on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at 11 AM, with callbacks on July 14, 2024, at 12 PM. This family-owned and operated business offers a unique chance for boys and girls ages 10-18 to receive free classes, emphasizing education, support, and future growth for aspiring artists. For more information, contact them at 708-297-1240 or [email protected].

• WQAD: The Princeton DMV will temporarily close so officials can convert the facility to a new design. The DMV office will be closed from Monday, July 8 through Tuesday, July 30 for renovations. Officials with the Illinois Secretary of State's office said they're converting the Princeton location to a new "one-stop-shop" design, which will allow visitors to receive vehicle and driver services at a single location.

• Mark your calendars for a massive garage sale on July 12-13 from 9 AM to 3 PM on 722 N. Linn Street, where everything must go! Featured items include a 1987 Ford Mustang GT and a vintage John Deere Riding Lawn Mower, aged 50-70 years, along with numerous accessories. The sale will also offer an extensive range of tools, yard equipment, and more from both the garage and shed. Don't miss this opportunity to snag some great deals!

🚨TOLL SCAM🚨

An “Unpaid Toll Scam” has recently found its way to our area and is effecting many Princeton residents. If you receive a text like this, please ignore it and DO NOT click the link. This message is not from the Illinois Tollway. The Illinois Tollway does not notify customers of missed tolls via text.

Example Scam Text:

From: 2637888874

Illinois Tollway, our records indicate that your vehicle has an unpaid toll invoice. To avoid additional charges of $75.90 please settle your balance of $7.59 at [website].

Tips on Identifying Scam Texts

• Check the Sender: Legitimate organizations usually use official or recognizable phone numbers.

• Look for Errors: Scammers often make spelling or grammatical mistakes.

• Do Not Click Links: Instead, visit the official website by typing the URL directly into your browser.

• Unexpected Requests: Be wary of unsolicited messages requesting payment or personal information.

• Too Good to Be True: Be cautious of messages offering too-good-to-be-true deals or urgent requests to avoid penalties.

• Contact the Organization: Use contact information from official websites to verify the message's legitimacy.

By staying vigilant and following these tips, you can protect yourself from these scams.

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: Expect showers early, transitioning to scattered thunderstorms later. The high will be around 82°F. The night might bring cloudy skies with a stray shower or thunderstorm possible. Temperatures will drop to about 65°F.

Tuesday: Cloudy skies with a chance for a stray shower or thunderstorm, with a high near 78°F. The sky remains overcast in the evening, with occasional rain showers. The low will be around 64°F.

Wednesday: Rain showers in the morning will become more intermittent in the afternoon. Expect a high of 77°F. In the evening, expect mostly clear skies with temperatures dropping to a low of 61°F.

Pollen Count Forecast:

Monday: Allergy levels drop significantly, with a minimal count of 0.1, suggesting very low allergen exposure.

Tuesday: The pollen count remains at a minimal level of 0.1, continuing the trend of low allergen activity.

Wednesday: Allergen levels continue to be minimal at 0.1, making it another comfortable day for allergy sufferers.

⛽️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 BUSINESSES

• Join the Princeton Public Library at Hornbaker Gardens on July 8th, at 8 AM for a garden photography workshop. Dave Cook will be teaching the basics of flower photography, including lessons on framing and angles. Participants will then apply these techniques during a guided walk through the gardens. This event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own cameras or phones for photography.

• Friends of Strays is thrilled to announce a generous donor has sponsored adoptions for 15 cats aged 1 year and older for the month of July with an approved application. Visit them to give a cat a loving home and share in the excitement!

• Dessert Your Loved Ones is showcasing their love for elephants with beautifully decorated elephant-shaped cookies. Their latest creation, a dinosaur-themed birthday party set, is also sure to delight.

• Five 22 introduces their fresh denim shirt featuring dolman sleeves and silky soft fabric, available in sizes S-L for $44. Visit them today from 12-4 to explore this stylish new arrival.

• Steven Becker from Thrivent invites everyone to a summer financial check-in to discuss progress on financial goals and any necessary adjustments. This is a great opportunity to address financial concerns and celebrate accomplishments. Contact Steven Becker for a quick consultation.

• Shane's Shine Shop offers ceramic coating services to ease vehicle maintenance throughout all seasons. With various protection levels, they tailor packages to fit customer needs and budgets, ensuring vehicle investments are well-protected. For more information, visit them at 611 N. Pleasant St. or contact 815-872-4301 or [email protected].

• Shawna Fillenwarth Photography is offering 'Apple Orchard Minis' on November 2nd at Windy Acres Farm in Kane County. For $80 per slot, families can enjoy a 15-minute session and receive 20+ digital images, with various time slots available.

• Café Grace is hosting a "Brunch & Bubbly" event inspired by Audrey Hepburn on August 3rd from 11 AM to 2 PM. Ladies are invited to dress in their favorite black dress, start at Sophisticuts Salon Spa for tiaras and lipstick, then enjoy brunch, mimosas, kiddie cocktails, and more at Café Grace. Reservations are required; book your ticket by providing your name, phone number, email address, and number of people via Facebook (Café Grace), text at 815-719-9921, or email at [email protected].

• Celebrate Christmas in July with The Knack's paint party on July 27th from 12 to 7 PM. Enjoy painting Christmas-themed pottery and sipping complimentary iced peppermint mochas, with activities suitable for all ages. Don't forget to buy your $10 ticket online and come dressed in your favorite Christmas outfit to enjoy festive music and decorations.

• Tossed & Found Resale + Consignment is excited to announce the grand opening of their consignment shop on July 19th, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, located at 225 Backbone RD E #5. They invite everyone to explore a treasure trove of unique finds and stylish bargains, from vintage gems to trendy pieces and one-of-a-kind accessories. Don't miss this opportunity to add some fabulous additions to your wardrobe and home.

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👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

• Animal Care Staff | Friends of Strays | Part-time | $14/hour, 15-20 hours/week

• Warehouse Specialist | Ace Hardware | Full-time | $19.00 - $21.50 per hour; Tuition reimbursement, 401(k), Health insurance; Weekends as needed

• Domestic Violence Advocate | Freedom House, Inc. | Full-time | $19.50 - $19.85 per hour; Mileage reimbursement, Continuing education credits

• Domestic Violence Child & Teen Counselor | Freedom House, Inc. | Full-time | $20 - $23 per hour; 401(k), Health insurance, Retirement plan, Paid time off

• Front Desk Receptionist | AmericInn Lodge & Suites | Part-time | From $14 per hour

• Foster Care Case Manager | Youth Service Bureau | Full-time | From $53,000 a year; Mileage reimbursement, Loan forgiveness, Professional development assistance

• Sandwich Artist | Subway | Full-time

• Bartender/Server | Chapel Hill Golf Course and Event Center | Part-time | From $21 an hour

• Information and Assistance Specialist | Bureau County Senior Citizens Association | Full-time | $15 an hour; Monday to Friday

• Account Manager - State Farm Agent Team Member | Lorita Hellman - State Farm Agent | Full-time | $32,000 - $70,000 a year

• Assistant Manager | Culver's | Full-time | $17 - $20 an hour

• Tree Climber/Trimmer | Taylor's Way | Full-time | $18 - $25 an hour; Monday to Friday

• Production Technician | Corteva | Full-time | Health insurance, Paid time off

• Server | Pizza Hut | Full-time

• Cashier - Part Time | Road Ranger, LLC | Full-time and Part-time | $13.20–17.42 an hour

• Assembler | Ingersoll Rand | Full-time | Health insurance, Dental insurance, Paid time off

• Warehouse Specialist | Ace Hardware Corporation | Full-time and Part-time | $19.00-21.50 an hour

• Parts Specialist | O'Reilly Auto Parts | Full-time | Health insurance, Dental insurance, Paid time off

Add a job to the list — email: [email protected]

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• Located at 647 Erickson Dr E, this splendid home offers an inviting mix of comfort and modern elegance, priced at $349,900. Featuring 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms across 1,832 square feet, the residence showcases a newly renovated eat-in kitchen and living area with large windows that infuse the space with natural light. Stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops highlight the kitchen's contemporary appeal. The home is designed for both aesthetics and functionality, boasting an incredible yard with thoughtful landscaping, a heated garage, and ample amenities for a truly enhanced living experience.

• This charming 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home on 127 S Church St spans 2,062 sqft within a 0.34-acre lot, reflecting a quintessential blend of historical allure and modern convenience. Built in 1901, the home features an inviting living room freshly painted, complemented by an updated eat-in kitchen. Two bedrooms are conveniently located on the main level, while the third bedroom is situated upstairs alongside a versatile playroom, which could potentially serve as a fourth bedroom. A distinctive three-season room with its own gas heater offers a serene retreat. Additional amenities include a two-car detached garage, substantial attic and basement storage, and a manageable annual tax rate of $1866.70, all within close proximity to local parks and amenities, making it an ideal residence for comfort and practicality.

• The property at 520 W Crown St features 3 bedrooms and a full bath, with two bedrooms on the main level and an expansive third bedroom upstairs that could serve as a playroom or potential fourth bedroom. The home is freshly painted and boasts an updated eat-in kitchen, a cozy sunroom with its own gas heater, and a utility room off the garage. It's equipped with natural gas heating and laundry facilities that accommodate a gas dryer. Additional amenities include a single-car attached garage with a concrete driveway and public sewer services. The property is conveniently located near local schools—Jefferson Elementary and Princeton High School—adding to its appeal for families.

🤝HELP WANTED

Dauber Company, a manufacturer of high-quality silicon carbide products, is family-owned and operated and is located in Tonica, Illinois.

We are hiring experienced maintenance workers starting at $32/hr, entry-level maintenance workers at $25-31/hr, and laborers starting at $24/hr.

Dauber Company offers paid holidays and vacation, 100% free medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401k plan, profit sharing, and advancement opportunities.

Apply by sending an email to [email protected], mailing to 577 N. 18th Rd, Tonica, or calling 815-442-3569, extension *813.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• The LaMoille Lions Club is hosting a Chicken Dinner on Thursday, July 11, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 308 Howard Street. The menu includes chicken (light, dark, or tenders), potato, salad, and dessert, with prices set at $13 for adults, $7 for children aged 6-12, and free for children 5 and under. This event is open to the public, with both dine-in and carry-out options available."

• Buda Community Club is hosting "Buda Fun Day" at Stewart Park on Saturday, July 20, from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM. The event features a parade at 11:00 AM, a bags tournament, and various activities including bumper cars, bounce houses, a petting zoo, and a foam party at 3:00 PM. Food trucks will be available, and all activities are free except for pony rides and food.

  • The bags tournament at Buda Fun Day starts at noon, with signup at 11:30 AM for $20 per team. The winning team takes the pot, adding an exciting competitive edge to the day's festivities. Join in for a day of fun and friendly competition at Stewart Park.

🗓️PRINCETON UPCOMING EVENTS

• Cabaret | Grace Theater | June 22nd-Aug 6th

• Festival 56 Summer Season | Soldiers and Sailors | June 22nd-August 4th

• Bluewater Kings Band | Zearing Park | July 4th

• Arukah’s Freedom Color Run | Soldiers & Sailors Park | July 4, 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

• Fourth of July at Zearing Park | July 4, 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM

• Overdrive Monster Trucks | Bureau County Fairgrounds | July 20, 10:00 AM - 2:30 PM

• Festival 56 presents Grease | Festival 56 | July 25 - August 4th

• 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony | Princeton | September 11th

• Bureau County Fair, Mitchell Tenpenny | Fairgrounds | August 22nd

Add your event to the list — email: [email protected]

🍿AT THE APOLLO

Despicable Me 4 (PG)

• Gru and the Minions return for another hilarious adventure.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM

Horizon Pt. 1 (R)

• A gripping thriller exploring the dark secrets of a dystopian future.

• Showtimes: Tuesday to Thursday: 3:15 PM & 7:00 PM

For tickets and more information, visit Apollo Princeton.

🍅FROM FARM TO TABLE: THE VITAL ROLE OF LOCAL FARMER’S MARKETS

Farmers' markets have become vital hubs for local communities, fostering a deeper connection between consumers and their food. Places like the Princeton Farmer’s Market are not just places to buy fresh produce; they are vibrant social spaces where community members gather, share stories, and learn about agriculture. The direct interaction between farmers and consumers at these markets provides a unique opportunity for education and relationship-building, which is often missing in traditional retail environments.

Economically, farmers' markets offer substantial benefits to local farmers. Studies indicate that farmers retain approximately 90 cents for every dollar spent at farmers' markets, compared to just 15 to 17 cents when selling through wholesale channels. This direct sales model supports the financial viability of small-scale farms, enabling them to thrive and continue providing fresh, high-quality produce to the community. Additionally, money spent at farmers' markets tends to stay within the local economy, further bolstering economic growth and stability.

The health benefits of farmers' markets are equally significant. Research shows that proximity to farmers' markets is associated with increased consumption of fruits and vegetables and lower body mass index (BMI) among local residents. These markets provide access to fresh, locally sourced produce, which is often more nutritious than what is available in supermarkets. This increased access to healthy food options can lead to improved overall community health, particularly in areas that may otherwise lack such resources.

Farmers' markets play a crucial role in bridging the gap between consumers and rural producers. They not only provide a platform for small-scale farmers to earn a fair income but also contribute to community health. The direct connections formed at these markets encourage healthier eating habits and create a sense of community that is often lost in larger retail environments.

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