A Mother's Day Gift Guide for Mom in the Stateline

Nestled in the historic College Park district of Beloit, the Beloit College Area Guest House offers a unique blend of history, hospitality, and comfort. Managed by Laura and Kerry, this charming guest house has a rich backstory that adds to its allure.Laura and Kerry's journey began in 1992 when they moved to Beloit with the dream of owning a historic home large enough for a Bed & Breakfast. They purchased a home on Harrison Ave and operated a B&B for six years, immersing themselves in the community and falling in love with Beloit's unique charm.Their passion for hospitality led them to operate A Matter of Taste Café in Beloit for 10 years, offering a unique, quality menu and catering to various local entities. Laura managed the food service operations for Beloit Health System's Assisted Living Communities, while Kerry served as the Executive Chef for UW Whitewater for 15 years.In 2006, Laura and Kerry purchased their current home, a 3-unit property, as an investment providing housing to the Beloit College community and beyond. Over the years, the property evolved, culminating in the creation of the Beloit College Area Guest House.Today, the guest house offers fully furnished apartments with top-quality amenities. Each apartment features a cozy living room, a full kitchen, and a comfortable bedroom with quality linens. Guests can enjoy high-speed internet, laundry services, and a welcoming environment that reflects Laura and Kerry's commitment to hospitality.What sets the Beloit College Area Guest House apart is its commitment to supporting local businesses. Laura and Kerry have forged partnerships with florists, breweries, and other local establishments to enhance their guests' experience. Whether it's enjoying a locally brewed beer or admiring unique art pieces, guests are invited to immerse themselves in the vibrant community of Beloit during their stay.Laura and Kerry's dedication to hospitality is evident in their 5-star "Superhost" rating on Airbnb, which they have maintained for 10 years. Their commitment to providing outstanding hospitality and exceeding guests' expectations has made them a favorite among visitors to Beloit.So, if you're looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Beloit, look no further than the Beloit College Area Guest House. Let Laura and Kerry welcome you to their home, where every stay feels like coming home.

As the warm weather approaches, we're excited to celebrate the beauty of our local parks! From the picturesque Riverside Park in Beloit to the serene trails of Big Hill Park, the Stateline area is home to some amazing outdoor spaces. Which park do you love to visit during the spring and summer months?Cast your vote below and let us know where you love to spend your sunny days! If your favorite park isn't listed, feel free to write it in. Let's celebrate the great outdoors together!

In the quaint town of Rockton, Illinois, a humble beginning marked the start of what would become the illustrious Wagon Wheel Resort. Founded in 1936 by Walt Williamson, the resort started as a modest seven-stool hamburger stand and filling station, with Gladys Burgis among its first employees. Little did they know, this small venture would blossom into one of the Midwest's premier resorts, captivating the hearts of many for decades to come.As the years passed, the Wagon Wheel Resort underwent significant expansions and enhancements. By 1950, the resort boasted 55 rooms and four apartments, spanning five wings and the main lodge area. Its growth was a testament to its popularity, serving as a hub between Belvidere, Freeport, Rockford, and Rockton, especially during World War II when tire and gas rationing made it a vital stop for travelers.One of the most notable additions to the resort was the Red Barn Golf Course, constructed in the 1950s, complemented by a picturesque little lake. The resort's facilities continued to expand, featuring an air strip, laundry facilities, pig pens, and even a sawmill across its sprawling 314 acres.Entertainment was a key focus of the Wagon Wheel experience. The Wagon Wheel Theater, which began with performances in tents, eventually transitioned into a permanent structure in 1955. Its grand opening in 1956 was a spectacle, drawing 412 attendees with ticket prices at $2.25. The theater became a cultural hotspot, hosting various performances and events that attracted guests from far and wide.The resort's culinary offerings were equally impressive. The Candy Kitchen, known for its hand-dipped chocolates and signature peppermint candy stripes, was a sweet haven for guests. Employees crafted seven-pound Easter eggs, which, though pricey at $15 each, were a popular treat. Additionally, the resort's Cock and Bull Lounge became a favorite hangout spot, with 16 years' worth of business cards adorning its ceiling.Celebrities were no strangers to the Wagon Wheel Resort. The likes of Bob Hope, Ronald Reagan, and Jack Nicklaus graced its grounds, leaving behind a legacy of glamour and prestige. The resort's charm and allure were further accentuated by its festive decorations during the holiday seasons, adding a touch of magic to the already enchanting atmosphere.However, like all good things, the heyday of the Wagon Wheel Resort eventually came to an end. In 1989, after years of neglect and declining popularity, the resort closed its doors, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate the hearts of those who remember its grandeur.Today, remnants of the Wagon Wheel Resort stand as reminders of its storied past. The Church by the Side of the Road, the Old Stone School (now a pre-school), and the Red Barn Golf Course serve as echoes of a bygone era, reminding us of the grandeur and splendor that once graced Rockton's landscape. The Wagon Wheel Resort may have closed its doors, but its memory lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to experience its magic.

Bringing new life into the world is a profound journey, one that deserves to be met with warmth, support, and personalized care. At NorthPointe Birth Center, an extension of the Beloit Health System, this journey is not just about delivering a baby; it's about creating a nurturing environment that feels like home.From the moment you step into NorthPointe, you're greeted with personalized care that centers around your needs and desires. Your prenatal care isn't just about check-ups; it's about building a relationship with your care team, discussing your hopes and goals for pregnancy and birth, and feeling empowered to make informed decisions.When it's time to welcome your little one, NorthPointe's team of midwives and birth attendants are there to support you every step of the way. Whether you choose hydrotherapy, birthing balls, or other comfort measures, NorthPointe offers a range of tools to help you navigate labor and find what works best for you. Movement, nourishment, and family involvement are encouraged, creating a birthing experience that is not only empowering but also deeply personal.After the birth, NorthPointe continues to prioritize your well-being and that of your newborn. They offer uninterrupted bonding time and encourage families to eat, rest, and nap together. Most families can leave the birth center just a few hours after birth, feeling supported and confident in their new roles as parents.What sets NorthPointe apart is its small, dedicated staff who are committed to providing evidence-based care and building lasting relationships with their clients. From prenatal care to postpartum check-ins, NorthPointe offers a continuum of care that feels like family every step of the way.If you're looking for a birth experience that is personalized, supportive, and empowering, NorthPointe Birth Center is here to guide you. Contact them today to begin your journey to parenthood in a place where you're not just another patient – you're part of the family.

When it comes to authentic Mexican cuisine in Beloit, La Mexicana is a standout destination. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant offers more than just great food; it's a cultural experience that combines delicious dishes with a vibrant atmosphere.. The restaurant's colorful decor and lively ambiance set the stage for a memorable dining experience. From the moment you arrive, you're greeted with the enticing aroma of Mexican spices and flavors.One of the highlights of La Mexicana is their array of tacos. Whether you're a fan of traditional carne asada or prefer the zesty flavors of pollo, each taco is a delicious masterpiece. The meats are perfectly seasoned, and the toppings add a burst of freshness and flavor.In addition to their mouthwatering tacos, La Mexicana offers a variety of other Mexican dishes, from enchiladas to tamales. Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor.If you're looking to bring a taste of La Mexicana home with you, be sure to check out their grocery store section. Here, you'll find a variety of Mexican ingredients and products, perfect for recreating your favorite dishes in your own kitchen.Overall, La Mexicana is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Mexican cuisine in Beloit. With its delicious food, vibrant atmosphere, and friendly service, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Calling all local small business owners! Struggling with getting more customers without breaking the bank on ads? You’re going to want to save this.I know the struggle all too well. A few years back, I was in your shoes, trying to make my lawn care business the talk of the town without the cash to splash on fancy advertising or complex SEO strategies. It felt like I was trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it—exhausting and futile.Then, I stumbled upon a game-changer: optimizing my Google Business Profile. It sounded too good to be true, but trust me, it’s a powerhouse tool hiding in plain sight.Here’s the scoop: By simply claiming and optimizing my profile, updating my business hours, responding to reviews (yes, all of them!), and posting regular updates about new menu items and events, I saw a real shift. It didn’t happen overnight, but gradually, more locals started walking through the door, mentioning how they found us on Google Maps or saw our positive reviews online. Now, I want to pass this torch to you. Optimizing your Google Business Profile can put you right where you need to be—visible and attractive to potential customers, all without spending a dime on ads.So, what’s stopping you? Have you optimized your Google Business Profile yet? Share your experiences or drop a question below if you’re unsure where to start. Let’s help each other out and make your businesses thrive!

As we celebrate Teacher's Day, I can't help but think back to my high school days and the teacher who truly made a difference in my life: Mr. Bruce Beling, or as we all knew him, Mr. Beling. He wasn't just a teacher; he was a mentor, a friend, and a true inspiration.Mr. Beling was my Auto CAD teacher, but he was so much more than that. He was the heart and soul of our school, always ready to hype up the crowd during pep rallies and host events with his infectious enthusiasm. He had a way of making everyone feel included and valued, whether you were in his class or not.What set Mr. Beling apart was his down-to-earth nature. He was always approachable, always willing to listen, and always ready to offer guidance. He made learning fun and engaging, and he had a knack for explaining complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand.I had the privilege of being in Mr. Beling's class for three years, and during that time, I not only learned a great deal about Auto CAD but also about life. He had a wealth of knowledge and experience, having been a teacher for a couple of decades, and he was always willing to share his wisdom with his students.But what I admired most about Mr. Beling was his kindness and understanding. He genuinely cared about his students and their success, both in and out of the classroom. He took the time to get to know each of us personally, and he always went above and beyond to support us in our endeavors.I am grateful to have had Mr. Beling as a teacher, and I know that his impact will stay with me for the rest of my life. He showed me the importance of passion, dedication, and kindness, and for that, I will always be thankful.Who is your favorite teacher, and what impact did they have on your life? Share your stories in the comments below, and let's celebrate the teachers who make a difference every day.

Turtle Island, the beloved play area in Riverside Park, is getting a fun makeover with exciting new features for kids to explore and enjoy. The recent closure of the play area due to structural issues has paved the way for a fresh new design.During a presentation at the Beloit Public Library, residents got a sneak peek at what's to come. The wooden fort climbing structure, unfortunately, couldn't be salvaged and will be removed. But fear not, as new adventures await!One of the highlights will be two tower structures connected by a bridge, offering kids a thrilling walk across. The main attraction? A hollow tree tower with slides, and a climbing rope vine for added excitement. The bridge will have a bit of bounce to make it fun without compromising safety.The play area will retain some of its beloved features, including the hollow log structure, a clear water stream, and the sand play area. SLU the turtle, a beloved fixture, will also remain in its spot near the entrance.Adding to the fun, a giant ant sculpture will be introduced as a climbing feature. Additionally, there will be a "cozy dome" for kids to climb on top of and crawl under, adding a new dimension to their play experience.The future of Turtle Island looks bright and full of adventure, promising hours of joy and exploration for children in the community.

Thank you to the City of Beloit for recognizing National Small Business Week. We were honored to accept this proclamation at the April 15 City Council Meeting.National Small Business Week is just one week out of the year, but we encourage you to shop local every day, whenever possible. "WHEREAS, more than 32 million small businesses employ almost half of America's workforce and represent the the heart and soul of countless communities; and their enormous contributions to American life and prosperity; andWHEREAS, during Small Business Week, let us renew our commitment to supporting Greater Beloit's small businesses, from local "mom and pop" shops to innovative start-ups."#shoplocal #shopsmall #smallbusinessweek #downtownbeloitwi

Wow, what a great first day of the market! The weather is great, the vendors are amazing and the customers showed up in full force ready for the season! Thanks for making it a great day.

Get ready for a Brew-tiful May at our Coffee Shop! We're turning 4, and we're Brewing up some Serious FUN! Join us ALL month long for a Celebration packed with NEW drinks, Giveaways, and Surprises galore! Whether you're an AuLait Lover, a Cold Brew Enthusiast, or just looking for a Good Time, our Anniversary Extravaganza has something for Everyone! Stay tuned for more details, and let's raise our cups to 4 Fantastic Years Together!

4 YEARS IN BUSINESS CELEBRATION MONTH FOR US! We want to give a Shoutout to Our Amazing Customers at DeeDee's Main Street Coffee! We just want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who walk through our doors, grab a cup of coffee, and share the DeeDee's experience with your friends and family. Whether you're here for your morning pick-me-up, catching up with friends over an Aulait, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite brew, or grabbing a to go for the road your presence fills our cozy shop with warmth and joy.Thank you for your unwavering Support, for sharing our posts, and for spreading the love for DeeDee's Main Street Coffee. YOU are the Heart and Soul of our community, and we're so Grateful to have you as part of our coffee-loving family. Here's to many more shared moments, delicious drinks, and cherished memories together!Let's have some Fun...Comment below your Favorite thing about our Shop and share for a Chance to WIN a $10.00Gift card! Cheers,DeeDee's and Our Main Street Coffee Team

Light and flowy a summer must-have sizes small and tons of colors to choose from https://alwaysforeverbeloit.com/products/ruffled-sleeveless-tiered-maxi-dress-with-pockets?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1E9RnXI2o_khPyx98x9MvgM9xbk3NpTDeOjPNoPnq1kKsXyq9GGbec4bc_aem_Ae7OSpR8mGAiGCsqwfOo87ecyzCOUUCrSeO0frxdZsweo2Wcy2h-rT27IwoZWKhQ0Ky2IWFP5oejwE8Y0xBHKoMq

DEVIATE Beloit applications close in 5 weeks! Tag an artist you’d like to see apply. Whether you're a painter, sculptor, musician, or any other kind of artist, we want YOU to show us your stuff. Apply now for DEVIATE 2024. www.deviatebeloit.com/artist

Cinco De Mayo is here, and there's no better way to celebrate than by indulging in some delicious tacos while exploring the vibrant city of Beloit! But before we dive into the taco goodness, let's take a moment to understand the significance of this festive day.Cinco De Mayo, which translates to the fifth of May, commemorates the Mexican army's victory over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It has since evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, not only in Mexico but also in the United States and other parts of the world.In Beloit, the celebration goes beyond just a day of festivities. Visit Beloit, the city's tourism organization, has created an exciting activity called the Beloit & Beyond trails, which offer a unique way to experience the city's bars, restaurants, cafes, and outdoor public art. And what better trail to explore during Cinco De Mayo than the Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail!The Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail showcases the rich Hispanic influence in the Stateline area through its many family-owned establishments serving up authentic Mexican flavors. To embark on this culinary adventure, all you need to do is sign up for a free Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail passport. Then, simply follow the instructions, visit the participating taco spots, and make any food purchase to get started.As you make your way through the trail, be sure to check in at each location. On your third and seventh stops, you'll be rewarded with exclusive Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail prizes, adding an extra element of fun to your taco-filled journey.But the fun doesn't stop there! If you manage to complete all 19 stops on the Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail by December 31, 2024, you'll be entered to win a fantastic Beloit Prize Package valued at $625! The package includes a two-night stay at Ironworks Hotel, a Beloit cooler filled with beer and wine, a Beloit cribbage board and deck of cards, a Wisconsin map bottle cap display, and gift cards to various Geronimo Hospitality restaurants.So, this Cinco De Mayo, why not spice up your celebration by exploring the Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail? Indulge in mouth-watering tacos, experience the vibrant culture of Beloit, and maybe even win some fantastic prizes along the way. It's the perfect way to celebrate Cinco De Mayo and discover all that Beloit has to offer! ¡Vamos a comer! (Let's eat!)Sign up: https://visitbeloit.com/passport-trails/taco-trail/