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Good morning, Princeton friends. Lovely little storm we had last night, eh? My children vacillated between absolute terror because of thunder and pure joy because they got to stay up late and play video games in the basement. The automated voice that tells us to stay in the house when the tornado siren goes off is the best. He’s forceful, yet compassionate. We’ll call him Tornado Rick. Tornado Rick does a great job at keeping us safe. Thanks, Tornado Rick.

Let’s roll.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
📚July Book Sale
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🗓️Upcoming in Princeton
💼Princeton Businesses
🏀3 on 3 Basketball
🪶Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday, Justin Dressler🧁!

• Two agribusinesses coming to Princeton

• Dive into Storytime Magic with The Little Mermaid at Princeton Library on July 14, 2025

• Lunch in the Park returns today from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Soldiers & Sailors Park, hosted by the Covered Bridge Barbershop Chorus and featuring pork burgers, brats, chips, and drinks. First Lutheran Church will also be on hand with a bake sale offering sweet treats.

• The Down on Main Summer Street Concert Series continues in July with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band on July 18th, followed by Face 2 Face: The Elton John & Billy Joel Tribute Show on August 8th. Additional performances include Electric Avenue on September 4th and the Heidelberg German Band on October 18th.

• Bureau County Sheriff Report 07-10-2025

📍Outside City Limits

• Buda Fun Day will be held on Saturday, July 19 from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM at Stewart Park, packed with events including a parade, food trucks, face painting, a pie contest, and live music by Steve Hargis. A bags tournament and numerous kid-friendly attractions will round out the day’s entertainment. 

• Illinois Residents to Receive Surprise Checks from State Treasurers Office

• Deadly Bacteria Found in 45,000 Pounds of Frozen Shrimp—Nationwide Recall Issued

• Railroad Line Replacements to Cause Temporary Crossing Closures Near Wyanet

• Local dentist among 2 killed in separate Illinois skydiving accidents

• 19 Jobs Most Likely To Disappear Due to AI

• A Vacation Bible School is coming to Wyanet Community Bible Church at 215 S Locust Street! Join us July 16–18 from 10–11:30 a.m. for Wonder Junction by Answers in Genesis, with a free meal following for kids and families. Sunday School for all ages is at 9 a.m., followed by our worship service at 10. Register online at Answers in Genesis – Wyanet Community Bible Church or contact Pastor Kevin at [email protected]—walk-in registration is also welcome!

🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• Listed at $114,999, this 2-bedroom, 1-bath carriage house at 810 W Railroad Ave offers 1,296 sq ft of living space on 2.52 acres at the edge of town. Built in 2008, the property is zoned R-3, allowing for residential use and potential expansion with additional dwellings. While some renovation projects are incomplete, cabinetry is already purchased and ready for installation—making it a great opportunity for sweat equity. The lot includes a one-car garage, and an additional two acres with a hay barn can be purchased for a combined price of $149,900. With an estimated payment of $874/month, it provides flexibility, space, and country charm near city access.

• Priced at $295,000, this 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home on Timber Ridge Road offers 2,768 sq ft of living space on a 1.52-acre lot surrounded by nature. Built in 1980, the home features fruit trees, a spacious deck, and a peaceful setting where deer often roam. Inside includes a double-sided wood-burning fireplace, a cozy family room and den, a formal dining room, and a fully equipped kitchen with all appliances. The primary bedroom measures an impressive 30 by 13 feet, and a 2-car garage provides added convenience. Combining privacy, space, and comfort just minutes from town, this retreat is ideal for those seeking a relaxing lifestyle.

• Located just a block from Princeton’s art district, this charming 2-story home at 26 Elm Pl is listed at $169,900. With 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and 1,891 sq ft, it features original oak flooring and staircase, a vintage tin ceiling in the dining room, and abundant natural light. The L-shaped dining area offers flexible space for a coffee bar, office, or plant nook. The home includes a fenced yard, screened-in porch, updated furnace, plumbing, A/C, sump pump, and hot water heater—all replaced since 2020. A spacious layout and recent improvements make this corner-lot home a standout at just $848/month estimated mortgage.

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📚JULY BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Princeton Public Library will hold their July Book Sale next week on Thursday, July 17 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday, July 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Children’s paperback picture books will be available at a special rate—4 for $1. There will also be a wide variety of audiobooks priced at just $1 each. Puzzle donations have greatly increased, so Thursday is the best day to come for the top picks. The sale will take place at the Princeton Public Library, 698 E Peru St.

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

🌨️Today: Expect considerable cloudiness with periods of rain throughout the day. Temperatures will reach around 90°F with winds out of the south at 10 to 15 mph and humidity near 59%. Rain chances are around 50%, tapering to 30% overnight. Evening skies will be partly cloudy with scattered thunderstorms possible and a low near 70°F.

🌤️ Saturday: Intervals of sunshine and clouds are expected, with only a stray shower or storm possible. The high will be 84°F, with west-northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph and humidity around 59%. Overnight, skies remain mostly clear with a few clouds and a low of 65°F.

🌤️ Sunday: Partly cloudy skies will dominate the day, with a high of 85°F and southwest winds at 5 to 10 mph. Humidity will hover around 66%. Sunday night will bring increasing clouds and scattered thunderstorms, especially late, with a low of 66°F and a 40% chance of rain.

🌦️ Monday: Scattered showers and thunderstorms are likely in the afternoon following morning rain. The high will be 91°F, with humidity at 60% and winds out of the south-southwest at 5 to 10 mph. Evening hours could see occasional showers with partly cloudy skies and a low of 71°F.

🌦️ Tuesday: Skies will be partly cloudy with a high near 92°F, and isolated thunderstorms may develop by evening. Winds will come from the west-southwest at 5 to 10 mph, and humidity will sit around 66%. The night will be partly cloudy with a low near 73°F and a 30% chance of rain.

🌧️ Wednesday: Expect scattered morning thunderstorms transitioning to mainly cloudy skies in the afternoon, with a high around 85°F. Winds will shift from the northwest at 9 mph, and the rain chance will hold at 30%. Overnight, scattered storms may return late, with a low near 63°F and a 50% chance of rain.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.14
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.16
Casey’s West/North: $3.19
Beck’s West/North: $3.19
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.09
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.19

🗓️UPCOMING IN PRINCETON

🌿 Bob Solberg Hosta Event – A day with hosta expert Bob Solberg at Hornbaker Gardens. Includes a presentation, meet & greet, and more. Sunday, July 20, 9 AM–2 PM. Free admission. Register at shop.hornbakergardens.com.

🍦 National Ice Cream Day at Sisler’s Ice Cream – Celebrate with sweet treats, specials, and a giveaway drawing. Sunday, July 20, 2–8 PM at 421 S Main Street.

🤼 Micro Wrestling at The Hawg House – A 21+ night of suplexes and body slams under 5 feet tall. Friday, August 1, 8–10 PM at Hawg House Saloon.

🚶 Walk a Mile for Freedom House – A downtown walk to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Saturday, August 2 at 9 AM. Includes teams, prizes, and activities.

🥪 Snackle Box Class – Learn to prepare wholesome snack boxes for car trips, school, and more. Monday, August 4, 3–4:30 PM at Bureau County Farm Bureau. Free class; reservations by July 28 at 815-440-8737.

🚲 Monthly Community Bike Ride – Join an easy community ride around Princeton. Tuesday, August 5, 6–7 PM at Darrius Miller Park.

🎸 The Wise Guys at the Princeton Inn – Party with live music by The Wise Guys. Saturday, August 16 at 6 PM at the Princeton Inn.

🎤 Trace Adkins with Brushville – Country music at the Bureau County Fair. Thursday, August 21 at 7:30 PM. Tickets at bureacountyfair.com.

🐶 UKC/SRS Dock Jumping Season Shutdown – Dock jumping competitions for dogs with UKC/SRS registration. September 13–14 at 1616 N Main Street. Details and registration at ukcdogs.com.

🛍️ 12th Annual Artisan Market – Over 30 artists, food trucks, live music, beer & wine at Hornbaker Gardens. Saturday, September 20, 10 AM–4 PM. Free admission.

🏍️ Princeton Swap Meet – Find unique items and motorcycle parts at this popular swap meet. Sunday, November 9, 8 AM–2 PM at 811 W Peru St. $10 admission; vending $50.

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💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Bureau County Metro Center kicked off its Adult Fastpitch Softball season with supporter Ron Lorenzen throwing out the first pitch. Games are held at Westside Ballpark every Tuesday and Friday at 6 p.m., excluding July 18.

• Finders Keepers is seeking a Friday afternoon volunteer to support the Friends of Strays Animal Shelter and contribute to a joyful team environment. No experience is necessary—just a kind heart and a willingness to help.

• Wild Honey Boutique is holding a Steve Madden Blowout Sale, offering 25% off all Steve Madden items including dresses, tops, skirts, and more. The sale begins Tuesday and includes a wide range of stylish options.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is hosting a pizza fundraiser on Monday, July 14, to benefit the Princeton Youth Soccer League. For every pizza sold, $4.00 will be donated to support local youth sports and community involvement.

• Johnsons Carpet Shoppe highlights Luxury Vinyl as the most popular flooring they offer, featuring waterproof, kid- and pet-friendly, scratch-resistant styles. Customers are encouraged to explore their diverse collection now on display.

• Simply Nutrition reminds customers they’re open and serving energizing drinks and hydrating teas to keep spirits high. They invite everyone to stop by and enjoy good vibes with a favorite beverage.

• Tailholt Trading Post added a variety of new inventory including unique vintage lamps, a Betty Boop purse, and several remaining shirts. Shoppers are encouraged to visit and explore all the fresh finds in store.

• Flowers By Julia has Cash and Carry Amish bouquets available for $25. These colorful arrangements vary and are expected to be in stock through the end of the month.

• Optimal Health added new pickled veggie options to their shelves, including their popular beets. Customers can now try pickled asparagus, beans, pickles, and more.

• Five 22 announced a “Last Chance” rack with 20% off select summer styles, many with only one left in stock. This is a final opportunity to grab favorite pieces before they’re gone.

• City of Princeton Animal Control introduced Everest, a 1–3 year old female husky available for adoption. She’s friendly, potty trained, good with other dogs, and can be visited at 1118 N. Church Street.

• Princeton Moose Lodge shared this week’s events including tacos and a WOTM meeting on Thursday, Music Bingo and a fish and ribs menu on Friday, and a Quilts of Valor display on Saturday. Events start at 5:30 or 6:30 p.m., depending on the day.

• Rediger Auction Service is hosting a live and online retirement auction for K&K Farms and Plotner Bros on July 24 at 9:00 a.m. The preview is scheduled for July 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring clean farm equipment and antiques.

• Tossed & Found Resale + Consignment highlighted new arrivals in baby clothing, including sizes newborn to 3M. The shop is open until 6:00 p.m. at 225 Backbone Rd E #5.

• Bureau County Fair invited the community to the Queen’s Cookout at Wyanet Locker on July 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can meet candidates, enjoy lunch and sweets, and stay for the parade at 1 p.m.

• Bureau County Senior Center is taking reservations for the Celebration Belle “Classic Oldies” River Cruise. The event takes place Thursday, September 11 at 9:00 a.m., and costs $74.27 per person.

• Paisano’s Ristorante is now offering rolled ice cream, available from 4 to 10 p.m. for dine-in or counter orders. Flavors include Oreo and strawberry, with a smoother texture that melts in your mouth.

• Golden Rice is showcasing a variety of sushi and Asian dishes including shrimp and crab roll with tempura for $13.99, vegetable rolls for $8.99, and salmon teriyaki for $16.99, among other colorful and fresh options.

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🏀3 ON 3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

The Homestead Festival 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament will take place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Alexander Park, 500 S. Anderson Street. Games will begin at 8:00 a.m. sharp. Online registration is open now, and teams that register before August 21 will receive a free t-shirt. After August 21, teams can still register, but no t-shirt will be provided. The cost is $80 per team, and space is limited to 30 teams total, so early registration is encouraged. First place team medals will be awarded in boys and girls divisions for grades 3/4, 5/6, and 7/8 (entering grade as of August 2025). All proceeds benefit the Illinois Valley Rimrockers Organization. Register here. More details can also be found here. Event fees will be refunded if the tournament is cancelled.

🪶TISKILWA POW WOW DAYS

Thursday, July 31 — Family Night

Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days kicks off on Thursday, July 31 with Family Fun Night from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Families can enjoy face painting, a petting zoo, games, and other activities during the evening. Free bouncy houses will be open from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm for kids to enjoy. Touch A Truck will take place during the same time, allowing children to explore local fire trucks, EMS vehicles, and farm equipment. DJ Chuck Hopper will provide music for a kids’ dance from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Friday, August 1

Friday, August 1 features historical exhibits at the Historical Society’s Museum on Main and the Gallery on Galena, both open from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. The Tiskilwa Community Association Beer Garden opens at 5:00 pm and runs until midnight. Bouncy houses will be available from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm for $10 armbands. The TCA Kids Pedal Tractor Pull for ages 4 to 12 starts at 6:00 pm. An ice cream eating contest for both kids and adults will be held at 7:00 pm. The TCA Draw Down takes place at 7:00 pm, with tickets available by calling 815-646-4121. The night wraps up with BRUSHVILLE in concert at the Beer Garden from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Saturday, August 2

Saturday, August 2 begins with a 5K race, with registration at 7:00 am and race time at 8:00 am. The Historical Society’s Museum on Main will be open from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The parade on Main Street starts at 11:00 am with the theme “Turn Back Time.” A community church lunch will be served from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Tiskilwa Community Church. Bouncy houses and waterslides will be open from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm for $10 or $20 armbands, depending on duration. The bean bag tournament will begin around 11:30 am. The Historical Society’s Gallery on Galena is open from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Tiskilwa Fire Department will host kids’ water fights from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm. Kelly and Sarah Finch will perform at 4:00 pm with an acoustic set in the Beer Garden. The Tiskilwa High School Alumni Banquet will be held at Indian Valley Inn, with happy hour at 5:00 pm and dinner at 6:00 pm. Bouncy houses reopen from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. The day closes with HAIRBANGER’S BALL in the Beer Garden from 8:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Sunday, August 3

Tiskilwa Pow Wow Days concludes on Sunday, August 3 with a Community Outdoor Church Service at the West Park Shelter at 10:30 am.

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