🎷Swing Dances, Valentines Day, and a Wedding Show

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Good morning, Princeton. Me and my PCA friends had a great time watching PCA and PHS great Grady Thompson play for the Dubuque Spartans on Saturday. He’s having a terrific season, and, yes, he still shoots the lights out. The Spartans beat Simpson University 95–71.

Let’s get to it.

—Justin Bullington

📬IN THIS ISSUE

💡What You Should Know
🏠Princeton Homes for Sale
☀️Princeton Weather
⛽️Princeton Gas Prices
🎷Annual Swing Dance
💼Princeton Businesses
🎭Festival 56
👷Princeton Job Opportunities
💝Magi Baby Chest
💖The Origins of Valentine’s Day
🤲Hands of Hope
🔥Amazon Deals
📍Outside City Limits
🍿At the Apollo

💡WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

• Happy Birthday Miles Rose!🎂
  

• Michael Zearing, Princeton planning and zoning administrator, said the city had four new commercial projects constructed in 2024 for a total of $4 million on the commercial side and about five residential units for a total of about $1.5 million on the residential side.

• BCR: PHS senior cross country and track runner Dawson Lambert is the No. 1 ranked arm wrestling champion in the state in the teen division for 154 pounds, crowned the 2024 championship.
  

• PHS wrestling results from LeRoy: first-place wins by Kane Dauber, Ace Christiansen, Casey Etheridge, and Cade Odell. The team finished second overall.

• The Illinois Valley Quilts of Valor group is inviting participants to take part in National Sewing Day. This event, focused on creating quilts for veterans, will take place on Saturday, February 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Princeton Moose Lodge, located at 1339 N. Euclid St.

• The Bureau County Fairgrounds is offering rental opportunities for events in 2025. Interested parties can contact the facility (815-303-3905) for details and scheduling. Registration is open for the Model Train Fair and Farm Toy Show which takes place February 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Princeton Youth Baseball & Softball League registration begins January 13 online and January 29 and February 1 in person at the Prouty Building. Visit www.pybsl.org for details.

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🏠PRINCETON HOMES FOR SALE

• Located at 778 Mayfair Drive in the heart of Princeton, this charming 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom ranch offers both comfort and convenience. The home boasts updated carpet, a large laundry room, and a fenced backyard perfect for relaxation or entertaining. With a newer roof replaced in 2023, the property is move-in ready and features a wood deck ideal for outdoor enjoyment. A spacious 2-car garage adds ample storage and parking options. Don’t miss your chance to see this well-maintained gem!

• This charming ranch home at 504 Harvey Dr. is listed for $244,500 and offers 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and 1,862 square feet of living space. The property features a double-door entry with slate flooring, a large corner lot with a spacious lawn, and an oversized two-car heated garage with workshop space. Inside, the family room boasts hardwood flooring, built-in cabinets, and an electric fireplace, while the updated kitchen includes newer windows, a dishwasher, and a refrigerator less than a year old. Handicap-accessible features include a chair lift to the finished basement with a laundry sink, washer, and dryer. With additional storage buildings and a desirable location, this home is a rare find.

• This lovely home at 3101 Bedford Dr. S. is listed for $119,900 and offers 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, and 1,300 square feet of living space. Featuring vinyl siding and a spacious primary bedroom, this property is perfect as a starter home or rental investment. It sits on a full-size lot with room for outdoor enjoyment and includes an attached one-car garage for convenience. With its affordable price, this home is a great opportunity to customize and make your own. Ideal for first-time buyers or those seeking a manageable investment property.

🌤️PRINCETON WEATHER

☀️Today: The day begins with sunshine, transitioning to cloudy skies in the afternoon with potential flurries. It will be breezy with a high of 45°F and wind gusts up to 35 mph. The evening will be partly cloudy with a low of 26°F. Winds will decrease to 5-10 mph.

☀️Tuesday: Mostly sunny skies dominate the day with a high of 48°F. Winds from the WSW will range from 10 to 20 mph. The evening will see a few clouds and a low around 30°F. Winds shift slightly, blowing westward at 10-15 mph.

⛅️Wednesday: Expect a few clouds scattered throughout the day with a high of 42°F. Winds will blow from the WNW at 10-20 mph. The evening will feature clear skies and a low around 26°F. Winds will calm to 5-10 mph.

⛽️PRINCETON GAS PRICES

Regular

Amoco, 720 N Main St: $3.19
Sullivan’s Foods: $3.26
Casey’s West/North: $3.29
Beck’s West/North: $3.29
Road Ranger, N Main St: $3.29
Shell, 2225 N Main St: $3.29

🎷ANNUAL SWING DANCE AT THE MOOSE LODGE

The Princeton High School Jazz Band would like to invite all of you to their annual Swing Dance held at the Princeton Moose Lodge (1339 N Euclid Ave) on Thursday, February 13th. Come enjoy the sounds of classic swing music by the greats like Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and more.

They will also have baked goods and drinks available. This event is free and open to the public, but donations will be accepted with all proceeds going to the PHS jazz band. It's a fun night out!

💼PRINCETON BUSINESSES

• Flowers by Julia is offering a Valentine’s Day special with the I Got You Babe bouquet for $67. Orders are live on their website, so place yours ahead of time to celebrate the big day.

• A downtown commercial space is available on Princeton’s historic South Main Street, offering 1,400 square feet of beautifully renovated storefront and an additional 1,000 square feet in the back with restrooms and storage. For inquiries or to set up a tour, call 218-360-1425.

• Optimal Health has added a new strawberry flavor to its healthy protein donut lineup. These donuts contain only 1 gram of sugar and 10 grams of protein, making them a nutritious and delicious option.

• Sislers Ice Cream invites you to celebrate National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day with special menu items like cinnamon roll donut sundaes and waffle ice cream sandwiches. Mark your calendars to enjoy these sweet treats in just a few days.

• Second Story Teen Center is raising funds for its new building with a sweatshirt sale. Sweatshirts are $30 each, available in multiple colors and sizes, with orders due by February 7.

• Corner Chair Market shares a stunning furniture makeover, transforming an old piece into a beautifully refreshed cabinet. The updated design showcases creativity and craftsmanship.

• Little Blue Dress expands its offerings to include mens items, such as clothing and Birkenstocks. They also provide special orders for sizes not in stock.

• Emerald Tablet Collective is hosting a Valentine’s Flash Day Event on February 14, featuring tattoo designs priced from $60 to $250, with walk-ins welcome from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Attendees can also enter a $1000 gift certificate giveaway by getting tattoos, interacting with their social media, and following updates. A Get what you get tattoo machine will also be available for $60-$80, and winners will be announced on February 20.

• Finders Keepers Resale Store is having a winter sale, with all winter wear 50% off. The sale includes jackets, scarves, and sweaters at their location at 230 E Backbone Rd.

• Bureau County Senior Center invites the community to create Valentine’s Day cards for seniors. Stop by the center to spread some love and brighten someone’s day.

• Tailholt Trading Post offers a wide selection of glassware, lamps, and unique collectibles at 925 N Main St. Shoppers are encouraged to explore their charming variety of items.

Upcoming Events:

• Trivia Night at Barrel Society - January 28 at 7 PM at 930 N Main St. Gather your team of 2-6 people to test your knowledge on pop culture, history, and more.

• Karaoke and Open Mic Night - February 1 at 9 PM at Downtown Pub (432 S Main St). Enjoy a night of fun and music as you showcase your talent or cheer on others.

• 2025 Starved Rock Media Wedding Show - February 2 at 11 AM at The Barn at Hornbaker Gardens (22937 1140 North Ave). Meet local vendors, enjoy samples, and enter to win prizes to plan your dream wedding.

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• Princeton NOW Premium subscribers now receive:

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  ❤️Local Obituaries

  🚔Arrests

  🏡Property Transfers

  🔍Health Department Food Inspections

  💍Marriages

  🏛️Board and City Council Meeting Summaries

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👷‍♂️PRINCETON JOB OPPORTUNITIES

The Bureau County Metro Center is hiring a Park Maintenance Coordinator to assist in the upkeep and development of park facilities under the supervision of the Superintendent of Parks. This full-time role requires strong leadership, organizational, and mechanical skills, as well as the ability to manage tasks involving physical labor and varied weather conditions. Candidates must have a valid Illinois driver’s license, at least two years of supervisory experience, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment. Responsibilities include supervising staff, maintaining equipment, performing inspections, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of park facilities. Benefits include health and life insurance, IMRF pension plans, and paid time off. Resumes can be submitted at the Metro Center front desk or emailed to [email protected].

• Porter | Culver’s | Part-time

  Supports restaurant cleanliness and guest experience. Pays $15–17 per hour with health and dental insurance.

• Warehouse Specialist | ACE Hardware | Full-time

  Handles warehouse tasks, including stocking and logistics. Pays $19–21.50 per hour with benefits.

• Operations Assistant Manager | Dollar Tree | Full-time

  Supports store operations and staff. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Assistant Store Manager | Dollar General | Full-time

  Assists with daily store management. Benefits include health insurance, dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Warehouse Associate (Production) | Ollie’s Bargain Outlet | Full-time

  Processes and stocks inventory for efficient store operations. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Cashier, Drive-thru | Beck’s Princeton West | Full-time

  Handles customer service tasks and drive-thru operations. Offers paid time off and dental insurance.

• Housekeeper | Goldwater Care Princeton | Full-time and Part-time

  Ensures cleanliness and upkeep of facilities. No degree required.

• Online Order Filling Team Associate | Walmart | Part-time

  Assists in fulfilling online orders. Benefits include dental and health insurance, as well as paid time off.

• Shift Manager | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Oversees shifts and staff operations. No degree required.

• Assistant Store Manager | O’Reilly Auto Parts | Full-time

  Supervises store activities, manages inventory, and supports customer needs. Offers health insurance, dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone | Part-time

  Assists customers with product selection and maintains stock levels. Includes health and dental insurance.

• Senior Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone | Full-time

  Supports store operations and customer needs. Includes health and dental insurance, along with paid time off.

• Server | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Provides excellent customer service and ensures prompt food delivery. No degree required.

• Stocking & Unloading | Walmart | Full-time

  Manages inventory unloading and stocking. No degree required.

• Manager Trainee | AutoZone | Full-time

  Develops leadership skills while managing store tasks. Benefits include health and dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Construction Laborer | Express Employment Professionals | Full-time and Contractor

  Performs various construction tasks. Requires communication and motor coordination skills.

• Lead Sales Associate | Dollar General | Part-time

  Assists with customer service and sales goals. Includes health and dental insurance, and paid time off.

• Sales Associate | Dollar General | Part-time

  Provides customer service and processes transactions. Pays $14–14.10 per hour with benefits including dental and health insurance.

• Medical Office Assistant (Gastroenterology) | OSF HealthCare | Full-time

  Handles office administrative tasks and assists patients. Includes health and dental insurance.

•  Production Technician | Corteva | Full-time

  Operates equipment and ensures production quality. Includes paid time off and dental insurance.

• Receptionist | H&R Block | Full-time

  Provides front-desk support and assists with administrative tasks. No degree required.

• Restaurant General Manager | Pizza Hut | Full-time

  Oversees restaurant operations and ensures customer satisfaction. No degree required.

📍OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS

• Fire Breaks Out At Mertel Gravel In Peru

• Join the Melody Makers at Illinois Valley Community Colleges Choir

• The following letter was written by Lemuel F. Mathews (184o-1889), an 1860 graduate of Knox College in Illinois, who enlisted at Cambridge, Illinois, on 12 August 1862 to serve three years in Co. D, 112th Illinois Infantry.
  

• If You’re an 80’s Illinois Kid, You Definitely Miss These 10 Foods
  

• Henry Harbor Marina moving to Hennepin
  

• Different Illinois Valley football landscape in 2025

• Sundays in January and February in Walnut, there are open gyms 1pm-3pm and adult volleyball from 3pm-4pm.

• Maizey Sterling is offering babysitting services and has extensive experience working with children of all ages. Currently pursuing a degree in early childhood education, she works in a 5th-grade classroom twice a week and previously assisted in a kindergarten class. 

🎭Festival 56

Summer Schedule

•  “Hairspray the Musical” will be staged from June 27 to July 5 at the Grace Theater. This vibrant production follows Tracy Turnblad, a bold teen striving for racial equality on a 1960s TV program.

•  “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will grace Soldiers and Sailors Park from July 6 to July 30. Shakespeare’s enchanting play delves into love, confusion, and whimsical fairy interventions.

• “Carrie: The Musical” runs July 11 through July 20 at the Grace Theater, unraveling the story of an outcast teenager navigating bullying and family conflict while discovering her supernatural abilities.

• “The Little Mermaid” is set for July 25 to August 3, showcasing Ariel’s quest for freedom and transformation in a captivating tale of courage and sacrifice.

• The Cabaret Series offers performances from June 20 through August 3, spotlighting diverse musical styles and creating a dynamic connection between audiences and performers.

Tickets can be purchased online at Festival56.com, at the box office, or by calling 815-879-5656.

💝MAGI BABY CHEST

The Magi Baby Chest in Princeton has set the date for its Magi Gala, a Valentine’s evening celebration, on Saturday, Feb. 15, at the barn at Hornbaker Gardens.

This formal fundraising event will feature dinner and dancing in support of the Magi Baby Chest. Guests can enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres starting at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. The Steve Sharp Band will provide live music, and the evening will include a small silent auction and additional activities. The nonprofit describes the event as a mix of fun and sophistication, designed to help babies and toddlers in need.

Proceeds from the gala will fund baby supplies for families. The event’s aim is not only to generate financial support for the Magi Baby Chest but also to engage the broader community and highlight the services the organization provides to local families.

The Magi Baby Chest hopes to expand its donor base and inspire ongoing support beyond the St. Louis parish community. The nonprofit encourages attendees to invite friends interested in learning about and supporting a pro-family initiative.

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and can be purchased online at magibabychest.com or at the St. Louis parish office. Open seating will be available unless a table of eight is reserved. Tickets are priced at $75 per person or $600 for a table. Quantities are limited. Donations can also be made online or by mailing a check to St. Louis Church, with “MBC” noted in the memo line.

🔥AMAZON DEALS

• Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat: $279.99

• DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill, Impact Drive: $134

• Amazon Fire HD 10 Kids Pro tablet (newest model) ages 6-12: $139.99

• Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum Cleaner: $299

• Natural Farm Odor-Free Bully Sticks (6 Inch, 25 Pack): $50.48

🤲HANDS OF HOPE

Hands of Hope Ugandan Ministry is hosting a trivia night on Sunday, February 16th at 4pm. It will be at New Hope Church in Princeton. It is $15 a person (all ages welcome to join). We are looking to have 8-10 people per team. You are more than welcome to create your own team or if you don’t have enough, no worries, we can help group some people/teams together! 

If you don’t feel confident in trivia, have no fear! This is a team effort, there are many different categories, and it just makes for an enjoyable night out. We will also have some snacks, desserts, and drinks. If you have any questions or would like to sign up, you can go to the Facebook group event at https://fb.me/e/2idwGAazc?mibextid=wwXIfr. Or if you don’t have Facebook, feel free to email Keli Pinter at [email protected]. Hope to see you there!

🩷THE ORIGINS OF VALENTINE’S DAY

Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14, is deeply rooted in history, blending ancient traditions and romantic symbolism. While the holiday is now synonymous with love and affection, its origins reveal a much more complex story.

The day’s name is believed to come from a figure named Valentine who lived in 3rd-century Rome. One popular legend tells of Valentine as a man who defied Emperor Claudius II’s law prohibiting marriages for young men. Claudius thought single men made better soldiers, but Valentine continued performing secret marriages, valuing love above imperial edicts. For this act, he was arrested and executed on February 14, becoming a symbol of love and devotion.

Another tale highlights Valentine’s compassion during his imprisonment. It is said he befriended the jailer’s blind daughter and miraculously restored her sight. Before his death, he left her a note signed “Your Valentine” phrase that remains iconic in romantic expressions today.

The association of Valentine’s Day with love and romance grew in the Middle Ages. European beliefs held that February 14 marked the beginning of birds mating season, symbolizing courtship and love. This idea was popularized through poetry and literature, particularly in Geoffrey Chaucers 14th-century work Parliament of Fowls. In this poem, Chaucer linked the day with themes of romantic partnership, inspiring traditions of expressing affection.

By the 18th century, Valentine’s Day became a widespread celebration of love, especially in England. People exchanged handwritten notes, poetry, and tokens of admiration. The Industrial Revolution further shaped the holiday with the introduction of mass-produced Valentines cards, making expressions of love accessible to more people.

Today, Valentine’s Day transcends its historical roots, evolving into a global celebration of love in its many forms. Whether through grand gestures or simple acts of kindness, it is a day to honor the enduring human connection. The history of Valentines Day reminds us that love has always been at the heart of human experience, surviving and flourishing across centuries. 

🏀UPCOMING HIGHSCHOOL SPORTS

Thursday, January 30th, 2025:

• Girls Basketball (All Levels): @ Mendota, 5:30 PM

• Boys Basketball (Freshman): vs. LP, 6:00 PM

• Wrestling (All): vs. IVC with LP, PHS Prouty Gym, 6:00 PM

Friday, January 31st, 2025:

• Girls Basketball (Varsity): @ IHSA Regional weigh-ins @ 3:30 PM, Location TBD, 5:00 PM

• Boys Basketball (All): @ Kewanee HS, 5:30 PM

• Wrestling (All): vs. Sherrard & Rockridge, PHS Prouty Gym, 6:00 PM

Saturday, February 1st, 2025:

• Scholastic Bowl (Varsity): @ Winnebago Invite, 9:00 AM

• Boys Wrestling (Varsity): @ IHSA Regionals (weigh-ins at 7:00 AM), Oregon HS, 9:30 AM

• Boys Wrestling (Freshman): @ Freeport Invite, 8:00 AM

• Girls Basketball (Freshman): vs. Oregon, PHS Prouty Gym, 10:00 AM

• Girls Basketball (FS & Varsity): vs. Sherrard, PHS Prouty Gym, 1:00 PM

🍿AT THE APOLLO

🎥Now Playing Through January 30th

Angel Studio’s Brave the Dark (PG13)

• A thrilling adventure where courage and friendship light the way through darkness.

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

Den of Thieves 2 (R)

• The sequel to the action-packed heist film, where the stakes are higher and the heists more daring.

• Showtimes: Tuesday-Thursday: 4:15 PM & 7:00 PM

Note: The last show on Sundays for both films is open captioned.

Tickets are available at apolloprinceton.com or at the box office.

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