🚴Tiny Bike Seats, Kid-preneurs, and a Northwestern Commit

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Good morning, Princeton. Especially all of you brave and sturdy-legged Z Tour bicyclists. Your perseverance, strength, and general ability to sit on those tiny hard seats always amazes me. May the wind miraculously only be at your back, the carbs fill your blood-stream, and the cramps strike the guy in front of you.

Let’s roll.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Home For Sale
✅Places to Go This Weekend
⛪️Princeton Churches
🐅Princeton Football Schedule
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🕶️Princeton Person of the Week
💼Princeton Businesses
🔗Top Links of the Week
👷‍♂️Princeton Job Opening
📍Outside City Limits
🧭From Princeton Tourism
💻Survivor Resource Training
🪰Letter from Lori

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• PROGRAMMING NOTE: I am (bravely) taking a group of high schoolers to church camp today through Wednesday. So, for my own sanity, the newsletter schedule will change slightly next week: I will send Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. That will give me a little more time to put things together for you. Sorry for any inconvenience this might cause.

• Because of the Z Tour Bike Ride, the north entrance to Zearing Park will be closed to vehicular traffic today from 5:30 AM to 4 PM. All traffic must use the south (gravel) entrance and follow designated parking areas. "No Parking" zones will be in effect on South Euclid Avenue and Thompson Street to ensure safe access for event participants.

• Princeton Tiger Senior Noah LaPorte officially committed to play football at Northwestern. QC News: “They’ve been reaching out to me showing how much they care,” he said. “The tight end coach calling me every day or every other day showing me how much they care and how much they want me in their program.”

• Kevin Hieronymus posted this cool video yesterday: Clips from "FIVE PM LIVE Celebrate the QCA" live in Princeton, Illinois. See anyone you know? I, incidentally, was not born yet.

• Chelsea Sanchez of Chelsea Gives Back is hosting a free clothing giveaway today, from 10 AM to noon at 1014 North Plum Street in Princeton. This event is open to everyone who can benefit from free clothing. Spread the word and help ensure no clothing is left behind!

• The Prairie Arts Council is presenting "Bring Him Home," an opera concert featuring tenor and Princeton Native Dane Suarez and pianist Nick Towns, on August 10th and 11th. Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Prairie Arts Center.

• Order your concert tickets now to see Mitchell Tenpenny with special guest Lauren Alaina at the Bureau County Fair. Enjoy the show from the Diamond Club, which includes parking, concert admission, food, drinks, and more. This is a fantastic opportunity for businesses or groups of family and friends. For more information, please email [email protected].

• Keep your newsletter from getting dropped or going to spam: add this email address to your contacts, your VIP, or whitelist today.

🏠HOME FOR SALE

The property at 710 E. Central is listed for sale at $229,900 and boasts a single-owner brick ranch on a generously sized 100x144 lot. It features three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, with an inviting eat-in kitchen and a laundry room, both finished with practical wood flooring. The home includes a dining room, living room, and family room, the latter of which opens onto a pleasant patio through sliding glass doors. Amenities include a two-car attached garage, central air conditioning, and efficient electric baseboard heating, ensuring the home is comfortable throughout the year. This property has been meticulously maintained and is move-in ready.

An open house is scheduled for June 29 from 1-3 PM, where all offers will be considered.

For more information or to contact the seller, email: [email protected].

✅PLACES TO GO THIS WEEKEND

• Don't miss the Farmers Market today at Soldiers and Sailors Park, from 8:30am-1pm. Enjoy a variety of fresh veggies, vibrant colored popcorn, and fluffy cotton candy. Plus, there will be a wide selection of other local treats and crafts for the whole family to enjoy.

• Festival 56 is kicking off the season this weekend with a series of exciting events. Today at 7:30 PM, enjoy a dazzling cabaret at the Grace Theater, showcasing incredible talent and fantastic music. Then, tomorrow at 7:30 PM, experience Shakespeare in the Park with an adaptation of Romeo and Juliet at Soldiers and Sailors Park.

• You're invited to the 2024 Princeton Bike Fest today from 10 AM to 4 PM at Zearing Park. Enjoy a bike swap and super sale with vintage and collectible bikes, e-bikes, trikes, and more. The event will also feature kids' games, massages, food trucks, free helmets, bouncy houses, and snow cones.

• Join The Wise Guys at the Princeton Inn Tavern today from 5 PM to 8 PM for an evening of rock 'n' roll music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s.

• Join Barrel Society for Lobster Rolls, Oysters, and more with Argonaut Co. this Sunday from 12 PM to 5 PM. Pre-orders are highly recommended and must be placed by Saturday at 9 PM to avoid missing out, as Argonaut sells out fast. Enjoy a delicious seafood experience with fresh options like shrimp rolls, shucked oysters, and take & bake boils.

⛪️PRINCETON CHURCHES

• Princeton Bible Church is celebrating their 60th anniversary and would love for you to join in the fun and fellowship on July 7th. The day will begin with coffee and donuts at 8:30am, a full morning of worship, and lunch to follow. There will be a special program at 1pm, and then games afterward. We’d love to see you there. Jeopardy will be hosted by yours truly!

• St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church on the Hill is hosting the John Linker Organ Concert on Sunday, July 14, at 1:30 PM. John Linker, a former member of the Church on the Hill and current director of music at ChristChurch Cathedral in New Zealand, will entertain the audience with his performance. A free-will offering will be collected, with proceeds going to a local charity yet to be determined. Refreshments will be served in the fellowship hall following the concert.

• Seatonville Community Church invites all children ages 4 to entering 8th grade to join a thrilling week at Vacation Bible School. From July 15th to July 19th, the church, located at 110 U.S. Route 6, Seatonville, will host the event from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon. This year’s theme, "Wild LIVE," highlights Christ's character and features an array of activities including worship music, captivating Bible stories, and inspiring missionary stories. Participants will also enjoy crafts, snacks, games, and more. For registration or more information, please call 815-915-6391 or 815-894-2248. Don't miss this fun-filled opportunity!

🐅PRINCETON FOOTBALL 2024 SCHEDULE

• Week 1: vs Newman

• Week 2: @ Rockridge

• Week 3: vs Sherrard

• Week 4: @ Kewanee

• Week 5: @ Monmouth-Roseville

• Week 6: vs Hall

• Week 7: @ Mendota

• Week 8: vs Mercer County

• Week 9: @ Erie-Prophetstown

⛅️PRINCETON WEATHER

Today: Partly cloudy with intervals of clouds and sunshine. There is a possibility of a stray shower or thunderstorm. The high will be around 92°F with winds SW at 10 to 20 mph. Thunderstorms are likely in the evening, potentially becoming scattered later on. The low will be around 70°F, with winds W at 10 to 15 mph. The chance of rain increases to 90%, with locally heavy rainfall possible.

Sunday: Mostly sunny with some cloudy intervals. High temperatures will be cooler, around 85°F. Winds will be NW at 10 to 15 mph. Expect mainly clear skies later. The low will be around 66°F with lighter NW winds at 5 to 10 mph.

Monday: Mostly sunny with some cloudy intervals throughout the day. High near 89°F. Winds will be from the south at 5 to 10 mph. The evening will see a few clouds with a low around 72°F. Winds will be SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

Pollen Count:

Today: Slightly higher levels at 6.0.

Sunday: A significant drop to 4.0, falling into the low-medium range, likely due to the expected rain and thunderstorms that can help clear pollen from the air.

Monday: Levels increase again to 6.2.

This suggests varying pollen exposure levels throughout the week, with Sunday likely being the most comfortable day for those with pollen allergies, followed by increases as the week progresses.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.39
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.57
Casey’s West/North: $3.57
Beck’s West/North: $3.57
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.72
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.57

Diesel

Casey’s: $3.37
Beck’s: $3.29
Road Ranger: $3.37
Amoco: $3.39

🕶️PRINCETON PERSON OF THE WEEK

🏅Victoria Yepsen

Reason for Nomination: “Victoria is a great person, a talented singer, and the Director of Tourism for Princeton. She’s done an amazing job bringing so much life, music, and fun to the town — we love the Main Street Concerts. Princeton is grateful for all the work she puts into making it such an exciting place.”

Couldn’t agree more, Victoria. Way to go! You’ve won the illustrious Princeton Person of the Week.

Okay, everyone. It’s time for you to nominate someone for next week’s Princeton Person of the Week here.

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

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• Niel & Shorty's BBQ Company has introduced smoked gyros to their menu, featuring smoked gyro meat on a pita topped with onions, tomatoes, and a side of homemade tzatziki sauce. Available for dinner from 4-8 PM, call 815-303-6435 for carryout.

• Eclectic Joy is celebrating the Summer Solstice with a 30% discount on all summer throw blankets. Refresh your home décor with these cozy and stylish blankets while the offer lasts!

• Crazy Eight Homestead Farm Stand will be open today, starting around 8 AM, offering fresh-picked tart pie cherries and farm-fresh eggs for sale.

• The Knox Hotel's new Speakeasy Escape Room scenario remains unbeaten, offering a challenging experience for all participants. Gather a group of at least six, sign up for available time slots this weekend, or schedule for July at historicknoxhotel.com/escape. Participants must be at least 10 years old.

• Painted Cloud Popcorn will be available at the Farmer's Market today. Don’t miss the chance to try their new Cheddar, Bacon & Ranch, and Crunch Berry flavors, along with a variety of other delicious options.

• Dugosh Farms is offering fresh garlic scapes, which are versatile for use in any dish that requires garlic, including stir-fries and pasta. Available in three varieties, these scapes can be bought in bundles of 10 for $1, and can be frozen or made into garlic powder.

• Optimal Health has added new items to their grocery selection, including Sweet Loren's Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and Red Plate Foods' Double Chocolate Whoopie Cookies. These tasty treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are free from top allergens, ensuring a delicious and safe snack for everyone.

• Mavolan's is offering a 20% discount on all sandals from Friday to Sunday. Stop in to refresh your summer selection and take advantage of this great deal!

• Tailholt Trading Post has added vintage tapestries and bar stools to their collection, perfect for enhancing your décor. The photos show intricately designed vintage tapestries depicting historical and pastoral scenes, and a pair of classic wooden bar stools with white cushioned seats. These additions offer a blend of antique charm and functional style for your home.

• Dairy Queen is offering $5 off a 10" DQ Signature All Occasion Cake with any app or online order of $1 or more until June 23rd. Download the DQ app and check your deals to redeem this offer!

• Cafe Grace has an exciting menu lined up for the weekend, featuring Mahi Mahi with caramelized pineapple salsa and sausage & rigatoni today, and a bacon jam burger on Sunday. Additionally, don’t miss out on their ZBest Boxed Lunches available for order until June 23rd, for pickup on June 25th.

• Play It Forward Counseling has summer openings available and is ready to help you. For more information about their services, visit playitforwardcounseling.com.

• True Leaves Bookshop is celebrating its relocation with a grand opening on June 29th, from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, at 15 Park Avenue W. The event will feature a sound bath, giveaways, book signings by local authors Grace McCormick and Jannifer Powelson, and poetry readings, alongside refreshments and activities like yoga and a farmers' market in the park across the street.

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🔗TOP LINKS THIS WEEK

• During a search at 805 North Main in Princeton on Wednesday, officers found drugs and arrested 47-year-old Jason Byrd. He was charged with felony drug trafficking after the discovery of heroin, cocaine, and items linked to drug packaging and sales.

• Explore the charm and sophistication of 612 E Peru St, a stunning 6-bedroom, 3.5-bath Italianate mansion boasting both historical richness and modern amenities.

• An autopsy was performed on the human remains found near an old mine, authorities said.

👷PRINCETON JOB OPENING

• The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has 29 openings for Soil Conservationists across Illinois. Positions are available in various locations including Rockford, Princeton, and Champaign. Interested candidates can apply through the provided link at USA Jobs. This is a great opportunity to help conserve soil and water resources in Illinois.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• The Walnut Public Library’s 2nd Annual Children’s Business Fair will take place at Liberty Square, Jackson Street on June 26th from 5:30-7:30pm. Princeton’s own Callie Odell will be selling her world famous crafts. She’s always got cool and unique stuff. A modern-day Rockefeller.

• The Sheffield Splash Pad is open today and tomorrow from 9am-5pm.

• The Tiskilwa Public Library is hosting a visit from the Peoria Zoomobile on Friday, June 28th at 1 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about various animals and their roles in our ecosystem from the experts at the Peoria Zoo. This educational event is open to the public and promises to be a fun and informative experience for all ages.

   

• Three Ogle County sheriff’s deputies were shot Wednesday after responding to a home where someone had threatened to harm themselves or others, an official said. The suspected shooter was also shot and has since been identified.

🤝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.

🧭FROM PRINCETON TOURISM

The "Down on Main" Summer Street Concerts in Princeton feature live music starting at 6 PM, with food trucks and fun beginning at 5 PM. Here are the highlights and additional activities:

• July 12: Mike & Joe - Midwest's Renowned Cover Band

• August 9: Dillon Carmichael - Top Hit Country Artist

• September 5: World Turning Band - A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

• October 5: MacKenzie Porter - Country Singer/Songwriter

Additional Summer Activities:

• June 22 - August 4: Festival 56 Summer Season

• July 4: Bluewater Kings Band

• August 22: Bureau County Fair, Mitchell Tenpenny with special guest Lauren Alaina

• September 6: Homestead Festival, Dylan Schneider

• September 7: Homestead Festival, Wall of Denial - Stevie Ray Vaughan Tribute

💻DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE SURVIVOR RESOURCE TRAINING

The Freedom House in Princeton is hosting a Domestic and Sexual Violence Survivor Resource Training session on June 24th. This event will take place at the Simon Conference Center, located at 446 Elm Place Princeton, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Participants will learn about various state and federal programs that support domestic violence survivors, including VESSA, Crime Compensation, and Safe Homes. To register for the training, interested individuals can email [email protected] or call 309-852-4008. The training aims to educate local businesses and civic organizations, and it is open to the public.

🪰LETTER FROM LORI

One fly.

As I'm sitting here trying to enjoy my morning, there is ONE fly that continues to land on me and annoy me with its dirty little fly feet and ticklish nature. It's not doing damage, but it sure is taking up a lot of space in my mind as I try to concentrate on the things of the morning that bring me joy.

I have a HUGE cup of coffee. I have a kitten amusing me with her acrobatic antics and playful nature. On this humid, scorching day, the fan is providing a gentle breeze. I have four books full of insightful wisdom that are speaking positivity to me. I received a wonderful email from a customer that encouraged me. My blessings are countless, but that ONE FLY.

Over and over again, it has landed on the same spot on my unshaven leg (a perk of being single!) and made me swat at it, MISSING, and causing me pain. My leg is now red and angry due to my OWN efforts. The fly has merely driven me into a frenzy.

I'm sure its actions are innocent. It is just doing what flies do, but my rage increases every time it lands. I feel like the little red guy in the new Inside Out movie and want to beat it to a pulp. So, I keep raging. I keep swatting. I keep hurting myself with no effect on the fly.

It's ONE FLY. ONE, not a swarm. All of the other self-respecting flies have found themselves a nice stinky pile of poop to land on, but this one is obsessed with me, with my shin. I'm sure I washed there this morning during my shower, but this particular fly must love the smell of Hawaiian Flowers (according to the bottle of body wash).

WHY? Why does this insect think I am a good target for its (her?) attention?

While I'm focusing on the fly, I don't have time to think about the blessings I was given. I just want to murder the fly. The ONE fly. I listed a few of the good things about the morning, and I could find a dozen more, but I HAVE TO KILL THE FLY!!

I need to sit back and reevaluate. How important is that fly? What harm is it (she?) doing? What are the consequences of letting it live? Will the world change if I DON'T kill the fly? The ONE fly?

Maybe I should leave it alone and shift my focus onto the good things and leave the fly to itself. Maybe it will join its cohorts on an odorous carcass somewhere and finally leave me alone. Maybe, just MAYBE...

Well, what do you know? I'm done typing, and there is no sign of the fly. My blood pressure is down. The welt on my leg is turning back to normal color, and look! What is the cat playing with? I guess every annoyance comes to an end.

So put your fly swatters down, lift your head, look around, and see the blessings of the day!

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].