Author: princetonmays

St. Matthews Lutheran Church, Princeton, will enter into Holy Week with a Dramatic Reading of the Passion Story from Luke in worship at 9 a.m. Sunday, April 13, on Palm/Passion Sunday. (Photo provided)
St. Matthews Lutheran Church, Princeton, will enter into Holy Week with a Dramatic Reading of the Passion Story from Luke in worship at 9 a.m. Palm/Passion Sunday, April 13.
There will be a children’s sermon with the Procession of Palm Branches, along with Communion by Intinction.
Worship will be at 7 p.m. Maundy Thursday, April 17, including Communion at the Rail. The week continues with a service at 7 p.m. Good Friday, April 18, with the Bidding Prayers and the Stripping of the Altar.
For Easter Sunday, April 20, St. Matthews will have one worship service at 9 a.m. with special music from their Brass Ensemble and their Choir. Holy Communion will be served by Intinction. An Easter egg hunt and Easter breakfast will follow at 10:15 a.m.
St. Matthews is located at 416 E. Dover Road in Princeton. For information, visit its Facebook page StMatthewsPrinceton@gmail.com or contact StMatthewsPrinceton.org or 815-879-6491.
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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Streator Firefighters pose with the victims of a house fire earlier this month. The family visited the firehouse to thank the firefighters by bringing food for the crew on shift. (Photo Provided By Streator Fire Department)
A house fire earlier this month in Streator led to the rescue of two residents trapped in a bedroom on the second floor.
Streator Fire Capt. Bryan Park, who was on duty that day, said the call came in about 9:30 a.m. Jan. 8 at 43 Stanton Place.
After hearing the address, Park recognized it as the street of a family he knows personally.
“When the call came in and I saw the address, I thought there was a chance it might’ve been their house,” Park said. “The dispatch center communicated to us there was a house fire and two people were trapped in a bedroom upstairs.”
By the time firefighters arrived, flames already had spread to the rear of the house and smoke was pouring out of second-story windows.
After investigating, firefighters realized that two residents were trapped in their bedroom, unable to escape because of the smoke and flames on the second floor coming from the kitchen area.
“I recognized them immediately when I saw their heads poking out the window,” Park said. “I was glad to see they were all right, but we knew we had to move quickly and get the rescue to the back side of the house.”
Park called for a “vent, enter, search” operation, a high-risk maneuver that involves firefighters entering the house without the protection of a hose line. He noted that it’s not a drastic measure but a tactic only used when lives are on the line.
“We pulled a ladder to the back of the house,” Park said. “We told them to sit on the roof for fresh air, then we were able to help them down safely.”
After they climbed down, the residents were immediately checked for injuries and smoke inhalation. Luckily, neither had any serious injuries.
They were taken to an ambulance as a precaution but were soon cleared.
Park said the fire was particularly emotional because he knew the victims personally.
“There was definitely a lot of emotion for me, especially because I’ve known that family for years, if not decades,” he said. “In a situation like that, there’s always adrenaline. But knowing the people in the house made it especially personal.”
The fire department believes the victims’ safety was because of a closed door, which helped prevent the fire from reaching them before they were rescued.
“I honestly believe the door might’ve saved their lives,” Park said. “I’ve seen how important a closed door can be in a house fire, especially if the people inside are asleep or unaware.”
Firefighters were able to control the blaze within 30 minutes of arriving at the scene. The crew quickly extinguished the flames in the kitchen, preventing further spread to the rest of the house.
The home had heavy smoke damage and significant fire damage to the kitchen, but the quick response kept the damage to a minimum. Three of the residents’ dogs were found dead as a result of the fire.
The family made a statement about the incident, making sure to publicly thank the fire department.
“Words cannot fully express our gratitude for your courage, compassion and unwavering dedication. When disaster struck, you were there without hesitation, putting your own safety aside to ensure ours. You not only saved my husband and me, but you also fought tirelessly to protect our beloved pets, doing everything possible in an impossible situation.
“Though we’ve lost everything we owned, including our four-legged family members, we are forever grateful for the lives that you preserved so that my children were able to hug us goodnight. You gave us a second chance, and that is something we will never take for granted. Your selflessness and commitment are a reminder of the extraordinary people who serve our communities, and we are beyond thankful for each and every one of you.
“You gave us hope when all seemed lost. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.”
The family recently took the time to thank the fire department by stopping by the firehouse and bringing food for the firefighters on shift.
“It meant the world to us,” Park said about the family’s visit. “That family had just lost most of what they owned, but they still took the time to buy food and bring it to us to show their appreciation. After everything they’d been through, you’d think they’d be focused on their own recovery, but for them to come down with their kids to meet us, it was just a really special moment.”
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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An all you can eat pancake breakfast is set 8 a.m. to noon Sunday, April 6, at St. Louis Gym, 616 S. Gosse, Princeton. (Shaw Local File Photo)
An all you can eat pancake breakfast is set 8 a.m. to noon Sunday, April 6, at St. Louis Gym, 616 S. Gosse, Princeton.
Breakfast includes all you can eat pancakes, sausages and beverages.
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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Eight Spring Valley first responders were honored Friday for their life-saving actions during an April 2 call.
Got a news tip? Email ntnewsroom@shawmedia.com
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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Bureau County Metro Center – Bureau County Metro Center Offers Youth Flag Football This Spring
The Bureau County Metro Center is gearing up for another exciting season of youth flag football, with registration now open for the upcoming spring league. This program has continued to grow each year, and for the first time, the league will expand to include a third age division, providing more opportunities for young athletes to get involved in the sport.
In previous seasons, the league was limited to two age groups: kindergarten through second grade and third through fourth grade. This year, a new structure will introduce three divisions: kindergarten through first grade, second through third grade, and fourth through fifth grade. The addition of fifth graders marks an important step toward expanding the program for older athletes in the future. Flag football offers a safe and engaging way to learn the fundamentals of the game without the risks associated with tackle football, making it an appealing option for children of all experience levels.
Registration for the league will remain open through Friday, April 4. Games will begin on Saturday, April 26, at Zearing Park and will continue for six weeks, barring any weather cancellations. The cost to participate is $50 for Bureau County Metro Center members, $55 for Princeton residents, and $60 for non-residents.
Much like the center’s successful youth basketball program, the flag football league relies on the support of dedicated volunteer coaches. Parents and community members are encouraged to get involved by assisting with at least one practice per week and helping on game days. Volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that young athletes have a positive and rewarding experience on the field.
With the expansion of the league and the continued enthusiasm from the community, this season is expected to be the most exciting yet!
For more information, to register, or to inquire about volunteering, please contact:
Bureau County Metro Center
837 Park Ave W
Princeton, IL 61356
Ph: 815-872-0840
www.princetonparkdistrict.org
Princeton Park District logo
[Sponsored] Bureau County Metro Center – Princeton Park District
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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Two people injured in Easter Sunday gunfire have been released from the hospital, Streator police confirmed Tuesday. (Derek Barichello)
Two people injured Easter Sunday by gunfire have been released from the hospital, Streator police confirmed Tuesday.
“Our investigators, along with other assisting agencies, are still following up on leads in order to accurately identify any persons of interest,” Deputy Chief Robert Wood said in a Tuesday update.
As previously reported, shots were fired at 5:51 p.m. Sunday at Main and Sterling streets. Streator police observed evidence that confirmed multiple shots were fired in this area. Two vehicles were identified as being involved.
Streator police reported early Monday that a 17-year-old died from injuries suffered in the shooting.
La Salle County State’s Attorney Joe Navarro has said authorities are not yet ready to release the identity of the teen who died. The case is under active investigation, Navarro said.
The Streator Police Department requests that anyone with information about this incident call the department at 815-672-3111.
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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Oglesby voters appeared to shoot down a referendum proposing a restructured government. According to unofficial results, the referendum failed by a roughly 3-to-1 margin. (Derek Barichello)
Oglesby voters shot down a referendum proposing a restructured government. Just over 70% of voters opposed the city manager concept.
The La Salle County Clerk’s Office reported 283 “yes” votes to 678 “no.” The total isn’t final but advocates and opponents agreed the margin was decisive.
“It is disappointing,” Mayor Jason Curran said, “but the people spoke.”
Curran said the council would resume work on the comprehensive plan, which was among the issues postponed while the city awaited Tuesday’s results.
“I think this was an amazing team effort,” said Brandy Day, a vocal opponent of the proposal and who penned an editorial published in Shaw Media. ”The town came together to speak their minds.
“We have a lot of work to do going forward for a more community-driven dialogue.”
“The people of Oglesby have spoken and the no vote won by a huge margin,” said Jay Baxter, a proponent who circulated petitions to put a referendum on the ballot. “Now the question is can the commissioner form of government solve the real and significant problems Oglesby faces caused by the commissioner form of government.”
Baxter secured plenty of signatures to put the question to voters, but there were hurdles.
For one, voters had seemed unclear on whether the referendum was advisory or binding. Oglesby Plan Commission Chairman Ken Ficek had to explain in late February that it was binding and the city would hire a city manager with a majority vote “yes.”
“Some people think this is advisory,” Ficek had said, “and it’s not.”
Multiple residents also spoke up at city council meetings in opposition toadding a new salary and to giving an outside hire day-to-day control over city operations and administration of city workers. Not least, the city would not be able to quickly rescind it.
Karl Ottosen, a Naperville attorney brought in for a question-and-answer session, had said that if Oglesby found a city manager didn’t work then voters would have to wait four years to hold a referendum on whether to abandon the managerial form of government. The clock starts ticking the date a manager is hired, not when the question passes.

Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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The following cases were considered by the Bureau County Grand Jury on Feb. 18, 2025. (Scott Anderson)
The following cases were considered by the Bureau County grand jury Feb. 18.
Christopher L. Crowe, 44, of Kewanee was indicted for the Class 4 felony offense of domestic battery. He was accused of causing bodily harm to a household or family member and had been previously convicted of domestic battery in 2005. A deputy from the Bureau County Sheriff’s Office testified before the grand jury. The defendant is on pretrial release.
Jaffeth J. Campos-Barrientos, 44, of DePue was indicted for the Class 3 felony offense of defacing identification marks on a firearm. He was accused of possessing a firearm with the manufacturer’s serial number removed, changed, altered or obliterated. An officer from the DePue Police Department testified before the grand jury. The defendant is on pretrial release.
Nathan D. Benavidez, 40, of Princeton was indicted for the Class 1 felony offense of unlawful possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance (fentanyl). He is accused of having in his possession, with the intent of delivering, more than 1 gram or more but less than 15 grams of a substance containing fentanyl. An officer from the Princeton Police Department testified before the grand jury. The defendant is in custody of the Bureau County Sheriff’s Office, with pretrial release having been denied.
Jesse J. Hanson, 22, of Amboy was indicted for the Class 4 felony offense of unlawful possession of a controlled substance (cocaine). He is accused of possessing less than 15 grams of a substance containing cocaine. An officer from the Princeton Police Department testified before the grand jury. The defendant is on pretrial release.
Michael R. L. Strader, 38, no town provided, was indicted for the Class 4 felony offense of criminal damage to state-supported property and resisting or obstructing a correctional institution employee. He is accused of damaging a property that is supported in whole or in part with Bureau County funds and resisted the performance of a correctional institution employee of the Bureau County Sheriff’s Office. A sergeant from the Bureau County Sheriff’s Office testified before the grand jury. The defendant is not in custody in this case.
These indictments were presented to the grand jury by Bureau County State’s Attorney Daniel C. Anderson, First Assistant State’s Attorney Donna Engels, Assistant State’s Attorney Thomas Briddick and Assistant State’s Attorney William Brozovich. The indictments were returned before Judge Geno Caffarini and Judge James Andreoni. There were two suppressed cases.
These indictments are accusations against the defendants. They are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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A Night to Remember prom is scheduled for special needs high school aged people and older 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, April 5, at the Bureau County Metro Center, 837 Park Ave. W., Princeton. (Derek Barichello)
A Night to Remember prom is scheduled for special needs high school aged people and older 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, April 5, at the Bureau County Metro Center, 837 Park Ave. W., Princeton.
Each attendee receives a crown. Corsages and boutonnieres will be provided.
Attire will be dresses or dress pants for the ladies, shirt and tie for the gentlemen.
A red carpet event is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.
Refreshments will be served, along with cupcakes, cookies, ice cream and punch. A photo booth will be on hand for pictures.
Anyone needing a caregiver will need to bring their own caregiver.
Anyone interested in attending should RSVP to Dianne Van Drew by March 24, email vandrewd49@comcast.net, text or call 815-677-2263
The event is free and sponsored by First Lutheran Church, Princeton.
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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Here are some fish fries planned in La Salle, Bureau and Putnam counties. To submit a fish fry, email information to newsroom@shawmedia.com (smpics/Getty Images)
Lent has begun. And that means Friday fish fries across the region.
Here are some fish fries planned in La Salle, Bureau and Putnam counties. To submit a fish fry, email information to newsroom@shawmedia.com
Ottawa VFW, 1501 La Salle St., will host a fish and shrimp fry 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $15 for cod fried or baked or $10 for shrimp. It includes potato, coleslaw, bread and butter.
Granville Volunteer Fire Department will host a fish fry from 5 to 8 p.m. Cost is $14 per plate and includes fish, fries, coleslaw, bread and dessert. Beverages will be available for purchase.
The Granville Knights of Columbus will host a fish fry from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Church Hall, 311 Hennepin St. Dine-in and carryout options will be available.
Ottawa VFW, 1501 La Salle St., will host a fish and shrimp fry 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $15 for cod fried or baked or $10 for shrimp. It includes potato, coleslaw, bread and butter.
St. Bede Academy boys and girls track and field teams will be hosting a Lenten Fish Fry from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Ladd Moose, 1528 E. Cleveland St. Tickets cost $15 and include fish, fries or baked potato and coleslaw. Desserts will be available for a small donation. Carryout or dine-in options are available.
The Oglesby Knights of Columbus, 307 E. Florence St., will host a fish and shrimp fry from 4 to 7 p.m. Proceeds benefit Holy Family School. Meals are available for carryout only and can be picked up in the bar, which will be open. The dining room is closed. Dinners are $15 each and include fried cod, fried shrimp or a combination, plus fries, coleslaw and bread. To place an order, call 815-883-3181.
Granville Volunteer Fire Department will host a fish fry from 5 to 8 p.m. Cost is $14 per plate and includes fish, fries, coleslaw, bread and dessert. Beverages will be available for purchase.
The Manlius Sportsmens Club will host a fish fry from 6 to 8 p.m. A donation of $15 a person is asked. Carryouts will be available.
Ottawa VFW, 1501 La Salle St., will host a fish and shrimp fry 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $15 for cod fried or baked or $10 for shrimp. It includes potato, coleslaw, bread and butter.
Ottawa VFW, 1501 La Salle St., will host a fish and shrimp fry 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $15 for cod fried or baked or $10 for shrimp. It includes potato, coleslaw, bread and butter.
The Manlius Sportsmens Club will host a fish fry from 6 to 8 p.m. A donation of $15 a person is asked. Carryouts will be available.
Ottawa VFW, 1501 La Salle St., will host a fish and shrimp fry 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $15 for cod fried or baked or $10 for shrimp. It includes potato, coleslaw, bread and butter.
Ottawa VFW, 1501 La Salle St., will host a fish and shrimp fry 4 to 7 p.m. Cost is $15 for cod fried or baked or $10 for shrimp. It includes potato, coleslaw, bread and butter.
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network

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