Discover La Croûte Bakery Cafe: A Fresh Start in Downtown Rockton

Kerry has become one of the most influential names in the world of taste and nutrition, but its story begins far from Wisconsin. The company was founded in 1972 in Listowel, County Kerry, Ireland. At that time, it was a joint venture between the Irish government and local dairy cooperatives. The goal was simple but forward-thinking. They wanted to upcycle raw milk into higher-value dairy ingredients that could bring new economic opportunities to local farmers. What started as a practical solution for rural communities evolved into something much larger.Today, that original mindset of creating value through innovation is the foundation of Kerry’s global vision. The company aims to be its customers' most valued partner in creating a world of sustainable nutrition. Kerry’s focus is not only on taste, performance, and consistency, but on doing all of that in a way that is better for people, better for the planet, and better for the communities around them.As a global leader with revenue in the billions, Kerry has built its mission around ambitious targets. They are working to provide sustainable nutrition options to more than two billion people by the end of 2030. They also have major climate goals, including cutting operational emissions by more than half by 2030 on the path toward net zero. This combination of innovation and impact is what separates Kerry from so many others in the food science and ingredient world.A Strategic Move to North AmericaKerry expanded into the United States in 1987 after acquiring Beatreme Foods in Wisconsin. Choosing Wisconsin as the home for its North American operations was a calculated and thoughtful decision. The state has a long history as the dairy capital of the country, and its location provides easy access to major hubs like Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago. Wisconsin offered not just convenience, but alignment with the company’s dairy-based heritage and long-term vision.The Beloit Kerry Innovation Center opened in 2009 and remains the centerpiece of the company’s North American presence. The campus spans 260,000 square feet and sits on 129 acres. The building is designed for collaboration and problem-solving. Inside, the halls are filled with chefs, food scientists, flavorists, sensory experts, marketers, and business leaders who work side by side with customers to test ideas, refine recipes, and bring new solutions to life.The facility is equipped with test kitchens, food science labs, collaboration rooms, and even a pilot manufacturing plant where teams can produce small-scale versions of new products before they ever hit the market. It blends creativity, science, and technology in a way that brings new food and beverage concepts to life faster and more reliably than traditional development models.The Innovation Center is also built with employee wellness in mind. There is a full cafe, coffee stations on every floor, a gym, outdoor seating areas, and modern meeting spaces designed to encourage teamwork. It is very much a place where ideas are meant to move freely.What Kerry Does and Why It MattersKerry’s work reaches far beyond what most people see on the surface. Every day, more than one billion consumers around the globe enjoy products that include Kerry’s ingredients or technologies. These range from flavor systems and seasonings to nutritional enhancements and functional ingredients used in everything from beverages to snacks to specialized nutrition products.Their goal is not only to make food taste better, but to make it feel better and function better for consumers. That can include improving flavor, enhancing nutrition, lowering sugar or salt levels, supporting clean label solutions, and helping brands create items that are both enjoyable and sustainable.The company’s scientific approach is grounded in consumer data and sensory research. They study how people taste, what they crave, how flavors interact, and where businesses can improve products without losing what people love. This is where the Beloit Innovation Center plays a major role. It acts as a collaborative meeting space where global brands come to ideate, test, refine, and perfect new recipes and formulas.A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Sensory TestingDuring my visit, I had a chance to see that process up close. To give me a real feel for how their internal teams evaluate flavor accuracy, balance, and consumer perception, they set up a tasting test.They handed me Skittles with no color cues at all and asked me to guess the flavor. They also passed along a set of chips, some with light salt and some without, and challenged me to spot the difference. What seems simple becomes surprisingly tricky once you remove visual cues. It showed me how much our senses influence each other, and how detailed and precise their testing needs to be.This kind of sensory work helps Kerry guide businesses when they want to adjust a recipe, improve taste, or create a healthier version of an existing product. They rely on honest, unbiased feedback to help companies understand how real consumers respond when they cannot depend on packaging or color to influence their expectations. It was a fun challenge, but also an eye-opening experience that gave me a much deeper appreciation for how seriously they take the science of taste.Kerry’s Local and Global ImpactWhat stands out the most is how connected Kerry remains to its roots. Even as a global powerhouse, the company still operates with a community-focused mindset. The Beloit campus is a perfect example of that. It brings high-skill jobs to the Stateline area, supports local education and workforce initiatives, and maintains strong relationships with regional partners.At the same time, Kerry’s work affects consumers all over the world. Their products are part of everyday snacks, drinks, meals, and health items. Whether someone is grabbing a flavored sparkling water, enjoying a protein bar, or using a nutrition supplement, there is a good chance Kerry played a role in how that product tastes or performs.Their commitment to sustainability and nutrition is shaping the future of food. As businesses look for ways to reduce environmental impact, cut waste, and create healthier products, Kerry is helping them find solutions that are both responsible and enjoyable.A Look AheadMy visit to the Kerry Innovation Center in Beloit was more than a tour. It was a look into the future of how food and drink products are made. The blend of science, creativity, and collaboration happening inside that building is something everyone in the community should be proud of.Kerry continues to push boundaries in sustainable nutrition, and they are doing it with a global perspective while staying grounded right here in the Stateline area. From their roots in Ireland to their innovation in Beloit, they are proving that better taste and better nutrition can move forward together.

Roscoe has a new breakfast and lunch spot that is already gaining attention. Sebastian’s Cafe officially opened its doors in late spring, bringing a warm, family-run restaurant to the former Crazy Llama Brewery building at 5312 Williams Drive. The cafe is owned by Ivan and Esmerelda Torres, who named the business after their young son, Sebastian. After spending years working in the restaurant industry, they decided it was time to build something of their own, focusing on comfort food, hospitality, and creating a place where the community feels at home.The opening included a ribbon-cutting with village officials, local leaders, and members of the Torres family. The celebration reflected what the cafe stands for at its core: family, community, and a personal approach to classic breakfast and lunch favorites.Sebastian’s Cafe serves breakfast and lunch every day from early morning through mid-afternoon. Their menu leans into familiar dishes made from scratch, including skillets, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, wraps, pancakes, homemade soups, and a range of daily lunch plates. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with a focus on simple meals done well at prices that stay within reach for everyday visitors.One of the standout items is the Roasted Apple Crunch Pancake. It features warm roasted apples, crunchy pecans, and a light touch of cinnamon served over fluffy pancakes. It is the kind of dish that brings a cozy, homemade feel to the table and has already become a favorite for many early guests.During my visit, I tried the Roasted Apple Crunch Pancake and can easily say it sits in the top three pancakes of my entire life. The texture, flavor, and warmth all came together perfectly. Paired with a fresh cup of coffee, it made for a morning that hit all the right notes.Sebastian’s Cafe brings a fresh energy to Roscoe. The space feels welcoming, the food carries a homemade comfort, and the owners have poured their genuine hearts into building a place that reflects who they are. With its family-first approach and emphasis on quality, Sebastian’s is poised to become a regular stop for locals looking for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy lunch spot.If you need a new go-to cafe in the Stateline area, Sebastian’s is absolutely worth checking out.

Tucked along East Grand Avenue sits a shop that has become a quiet favorite for collectors, jewelry lovers, and anyone who appreciates the stories objects carry. J and G’s Coins, Rings, and Things, owned by John and Gaia, offers a mix of expertise, curiosity, and old-fashioned customer connection that has helped them stand out in the Stateline community.The shop blends two worlds. On one side, it is a destination for serious coin collectors seeking rare, historic, or hard-to-find pieces. On the other hand, it is a warm and welcoming place to explore estate jewelry, gold and silver, vintage watches, and a variety of unique items that change almost daily. The inventory is constantly refreshed as John and Gaia buy, sell, trade, and appraise items sourced from the community and beyond.What makes the business compelling is the personal approach. John and Gaia are hands-on owners who take time to explain the value and background of the pieces they curate. Whether someone walks in with a box of old coins, a family heirloom, or a question about selling gold, the experience is anchored in honesty and knowledge. Customers often describe the shop as a place where they feel both informed and respected, which has helped build a loyal following.Their work is built around curiosity and passion. They enjoy the discovery process, from evaluating the authenticity of rare coins to finding beautiful jewelry that deserves a second life. Every item has a story, and they aim to preserve that while helping customers understand what makes each piece special. It is part history lesson, part treasure hunt, and part neighborhood business built on trust.J and G’s Coins, Rings, and Things continues to grow as more people rediscover the appeal of quality, craftsmanship, and meaningful keepsakes. Whether visitors arrive as collectors or simply wander in out of curiosity, many leave with something unexpected. It might be a coin with historical weight, a ring that catches the light perfectly, or a memory of a good conversation with owners who truly love what they do.For anyone exploring Beloit or looking for a reliable place to buy or sell valuables, J and G’s offers a steady presence downtown. It is a shop shaped by passion, guided by expertise, and rooted in a genuine appreciation for the stories people bring through the door.

At 408 E. Grand Avenue in Downtown Beloit, Walnut Creek Apparel & Gifts stands out as a warm, creative hub for personalized and thoughtful presents. Owned by entrepreneur Nikkie Chadwick, the store blends the craftsmanship of custom apparel and engraving with a genuine hometown feel.While Walnut Creek originally grew out of a woodshop, over the years it has expanded into a multi‑business operation under Chadwick’s leadership. She now oversees not only the retail shop, but also award making, hardwood production, and promotional branding services. Her ability to build something from the ground up is reflected in the store’s inviting, hands‑on atmosphere.Inside the downtown storefront, customers find more than just retail inventory. The team specializes in screen printing, embroidery, sublimation, and laser engraving, transforming ordinary items into meaningful keepsakes. Whether someone wants a name on a hoodie, a photo on a pillow, or a heartfelt message etched into a cutting board, Walnut Creek delivers with creativity and care.As the holidays approach, this little shop becomes a destination for gifts that feel personal. The selection includes engraved cutting boards, personalized ornaments, full‑color pillows, and even fu,n ugly Christmas sweaters. In one tucked-away bonus room, seasonal shirts and limited-edition holiday items fill the shelves, making it perfect for discovering something unique.Walnut Creek also brings seasonally sweet offers. They host a “Pink Friday” sale with up to 20 percent off select items, and they celebrate Small Business Saturday by inviting the Beloit community downtown to shop, support, and share in the local spirit.More than just a store, Walnut Creek is deeply rooted in community. Chadwick’s team partners with schools, organizations, and local events to deliver custom apparel, fundraising gear, and recognition pieces. Their design process is hands‑on, and they welcome customers with rough sketches or ideas, helping bring each vision to life.Walnut Creek Apparel & Gifts is a place where authenticity meets artistry. It’s not just about buying a giftit’s about creating something special, rooted in the Stateline community. Whether you want a thoughtful holiday treasure or a personalized piece made just for you, this downtown Beloit gem is worth a stop.

Located in the heart of Beloit, The Lincoln Academy stands out as a vibrant and innovative K-12 public charter school with a bold mission: to ensure every scholar is prepared for college, career, and life. I recently toured the school and met with CEO Dr. Cole, who shared a vision for education that goes far beyond academics. What I saw during my visit is a school deeply committed to reshaping what learning looks like for the Stateline area.At its core, The Lincoln Academy is built on a foundation of excellence. Scholars are challenged with rigorous academic programs in core subjects like math, science, reading, and social studies. However, what quickly becomes clear is that academic strength is just the beginning here. The school’s model seamlessly weaves real-world application, character growth, career readiness, and a joyful environment into everyday learning.One of the first things you notice is the energy in the building. The Academy calls it a “Culture of Joy” – an intentional environment where every scholar, teacher, and staff member feels respected and empowered. Walking through the halls, you see meaningful interactions, engaged classrooms, and a strong sense of community. This culture is actively taught and nurtured, and it sets the tone for everything else the school does.The school also places tremendous value on character development. Scholars are taught to embody values like respect, grit, integrity, and curiosity. These aren’t just words on posters – they are actively embedded into classroom discussions, school traditions, and everyday challenges. The goal is to build scholars who are as emotionally resilient and ethically grounded as they are academically successful.One of the most impressive elements is The Lincoln Academy’s approach to career exploration. Starting as early as middle school, scholars are introduced to a wide spectrum of career options. They engage in hands-on learning experiences, meet industry professionals, and even step into real workplaces to shadow or intern. By senior year, scholars have not only built skills – they have built goals, relationships, and a vision for their future.The school’s focus on diversity and inclusion is another core pillar. The Lincoln Academy is intentional about creating a welcoming environment for all scholars, and their belief in building a strong, diverse learning community shows up in curriculum choices, staff training, and cultural celebrations throughout the year. Scholars learn to see themselves as part of a broader society, where everyone’s background and perspective matter.In addition to core classes, The Lincoln Academy offers a wide range of specialty courses and electives. Whether a scholar is passionate about engineering, wants to dive into computer science, dreams of culinary arts, or loves visual and performing arts, there’s a program ready to support that passion. This balanced approach is not just about adding variety; i t’s about opening doors that scholars may have never known existed.Outside the classroom, The Lincoln Academy offers numerous clubs and extracurricular activities that allow scholars to explore personal interests, build friendships, and develop leadership skills. From robotics to choir, from community service to sports, these opportunities are not just add-ons – they are extensions of the school’s mission to develop the whole person.The Lincoln Academy is not just another school. It is a thoughtfully designed educational ecosystem where scholars are respected as individuals, challenged to think critically, and supported as they build their futures. Dr. Cole and her team are creating a model that others will look to, not just in Beloit, but across Wisconsin and beyond.For families in the Stateline area looking for a school that believes in each scholar’s potential and is ready to invest in their journey from kindergarten to career, The Lincoln Academy is a powerful example of what education can be.

When the temperatures drop and the streets of Beloit start to sparkle with holiday lights, there’s still one place that keeps the community buzzing with life—the Beloit Winter Farmers Market. Hosted by the Downtown Beloit Association, this indoor market is the perfect way to stay connected with local makers, farmers, and food lovers all winter long.Taking place every Saturday from November through April, the market runs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. inside the Downtown Beloit Association’s event space. Outside, you’ll usually find a few food trucks serving up warm bites, while inside, the space is filled with vendors offering everything from seasonal produce and farm-fresh eggs to local cheese, honey, baked goods, seafood, meats, poultry, and more. The aroma alone makes it worth the visit.Walking through the market feels like stepping into a cozy little world where the community gathers no matter the weather. It’s a place where you can grab your weekly groceries, discover handmade soaps or crafts, and chat with the people who grow and create what you’re buying. Every week features a rotating lineup of local vendors, announced in advance on the Beloit Farmers Market Facebook page and the Winter Market event listing—so there’s always something new to explore.One of the best parts is how family-friendly it is. The market offers free activities for kids, making it an easy Saturday outing for parents who want to get out of the house during the long Wisconsin winter. Whether you’re browsing, sampling, or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s no shortage of friendly faces and good energy.And when the holidays roll around, Downtown Beloit truly shines. The association goes all out during the Christmas season, decorating the space and filling it with festive cheer. Between the lights, the music, and the smell of baked goods in the air, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel right at home in your community.If you’re looking for something to do on a Saturday morning, or you just want to experience the heart of Beloit through its local businesses and farmers, the Winter Farmers Market is the place to be. It’s more than just shopping—it’s a warm reminder of how vibrant and connected our downtown really is, even when the snow is falling outside.To learn more about the Beloit Winter Farmers Market and see which vendors will be there each week, visit the Downtown Beloit Association’s website or check out their Facebook page for updates.

Every fall, the heart of Rockton transforms into a Halloween wonderland for one of the most anticipated community events of the year, Main Street Trick or Treat. My family and I make it a point to go every year, and this year’s celebration once again showed why it’s such a beloved tradition for so many people across the Stateline.Thousands of families filled Main Street, Hawick Street, and beyond, all dressed up in their best costumes. The streets were lined with smiling faces, creative outfits, and plenty of candy. The event offers the perfect balance between a trunk-or-treat and a classic door-to-door trick-or-treat experience. Kids get the joy of visiting the local businesses along downtown Rockton, where owners and staff hand out treats and join in the Halloween fun.The atmosphere is what makes this event so special. Everywhere you look, there’s laughter, music, and that familiar sense of small-town community. Parents chat with business owners, friends run into friends, and kids rush from one storefront to the next, comparing candy hauls and showing off their costumes. From superheroes and princesses to ghosts and dinosaurs, every corner of downtown Rockton is filled with color and excitement.Local businesses truly go all out for this event. Many decorate their storefronts, wear costumes of their own, and make it a full Halloween experience. You can feel the effort and creativity that goes into making sure everyone has a great time. The Rockton Police and Fire Departments also take part, greeting families and keeping everyone safe while adding to the fun with lights, vehicles, and photo ops for the kids.For my family, this event has become a fall tradition. We start at Village Hall, grab some candy there, and then make our way down Main Street, stopping at our favorite spots. It’s an easy and safe way to enjoy Halloween while connecting with the community. The kids love the adventure of walking from place to place, and as a parent, it’s great to see how much care goes into making it all come together.What really stands out each year is the sense of togetherness. It’s not just about candy or costumes, it’s about community spirit. Main Street Trick or Treat brings people out from every part of town to share a fun and memorable day. You see generations walking side by side, from grandparents taking photos to toddlers in strollers dressed as pumpkins.By the time the event wraps up, the sun begins to set, and the glow of streetlights bounces off the happy faces heading home with full candy bags and tired feet. It’s one of those moments that reminds you why small towns like Rockton are so special. Events like this don’t just happen; they’re built by the people who can, including the business owners, volunteers, first responders, and families who show up every year to make it happen.Main Street Trick or Treat has become more than just an event; it’s a tradition that defines fall in Rockton. It’s the kind of day that brings smiles to kids, creates memories for families, and keeps the spirit of community alive. For us, it’s a must-do every Halloween season, and judging by the thousands who showed up this year, we’re not the only ones who feel that way.

There’s a new kind of party shop in Roscoe, and it’s changing the way people celebrate. Party Like a Rockstar Balloons was created out of a simple idea — to bring something fun, creative, and local to the community. After running Tents and Events for three years, the owner noticed that while people loved hosting gatherings, there wasn’t an easy place nearby to get quality balloons or stylish party essentials. That inspired her to open a shop that focuses on everything from custom balloon designs to grab-and-go options, all with a personal touch that makes every celebration feel special.Located right on the corner of Main and Bridge Street, Party Like a Rockstar Balloons offers an impressive range of products. You’ll find over 60 colors of latex balloons, themed and foil balloons for every occasion, and even balloon garlands you can pick up or have delivered. They also create one-of-a-kind balloon displays like their foil balloon wall featuring oversized shapes — from four-foot horses to shiny cherries or giant numbers that make any backdrop pop.But this shop is more than balloons. You can find everything you need to pull a party together — cake toppers, candles, gift card holders, bottle wraps, and even full party-in-a-box sets that make planning simple. It’s the kind of place where you can stop in last minute and still leave with the perfect gift, decoration, or party setup.What really sets Party Like a Rockstar Balloons apart is its convenience and community focus. They offer free delivery in Roscoe and easy online ordering, plus they’re open seven days a week to fit your schedule. The owner also hopes to partner with other local businesses to bring even more creative offerings to the area. Whether you’re planning a birthday, a holiday celebration, or just want to brighten someone’s day, Party Like a Rockstar Balloons is the local spot that helps you do it in style.

When I get a rare free morning in Beloit, there’s one place I always seem to end up at, Jerry’s Cafe. It’s been one of my go-to breakfast spots for a while now, and after this last visit, I was reminded exactly why.This time, I went with their Mexican omelet, and let me just say, it was a solid choice. The omelet was packed with fresh veggies and flavorful chorizo, topped with melted cheese that tied it all together perfectly. Every bite had that mix of comfort and kick that keeps me coming back. It’s one of those breakfasts that feels both hearty and made with care.To go with it, I tried their strawberry orange juice, which was hands down one of the best drinks I’ve had in a long time. It was sweet, refreshing, and had that fresh, real-fruit taste that makes you pause for a second. If you go, do yourself a favor and order one.Jerry’s Cafe is the kind of local spot that makes Beloit feel like home. It’s a family-owned restaurant that’s been serving up classic breakfast and lunch favorites with a Mexican-American twist. You can tell they put pride into everything they make, from their homemade dishes to the friendly service that makes you feel like a regular, even if it’s your first visit.They’re open seven days a week, and the menu has something for everyone, whether you’re into traditional eggs and pancakes or want to try something with a little more flavor, like their chilaquiles or breakfast burritos. The portions are generous, the prices are fair, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.For me, Jerry’s Cafe is more than just a breakfast stop; it’s part of what makes mornings in Beloit special. Places like this remind you why supporting local restaurants matters. You get great food, great service, and that personal touch that chain spots just can’t match.Next time you’re in the area and craving a good breakfast, make the stop. It’s worth it.

The Stateline Family YMCA is gearing up for one of its most impactful community events of the year, the annual Spin-a-Thon, happening Sunday, November 2nd at the Roscoe Branch. This event isn’t just about fitness; it’s about giving hope and improving lives. Every dollar raised goes directly to support the YMCA’s Pedaling for Parkinson’s program — a free exercise initiative designed for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease and their caretakers.The Spin-a-Thon is a high-energy morning packed with fun and purpose. Participants can choose from a lineup of cycling classes throughout the morning, each led by experienced instructors bringing their own style and motivation to the ride. New this year, there’s even a Zumba class added to the mix, giving participants a chance to dance, move, and support the cause in a whole new way.The event kicks off early, starting at 7:00 a.m. with multiple spin sessions, each with a unique theme and vibe. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced challenge like the Sprint with Sarah & Erin, a nostalgic Totally 80’s Ride with Lisa & Stacy, or something different like the new Zumba with Heather & Katy, there’s something for everyone. Each class is open to the public, and for just $20 per class, it’s an easy and rewarding way to make a real difference.You’ll also find raffle baskets available at the Beloit Branch, along with donor walls at both Beloit and Roscoe, offering additional ways to support the program. The generosity of sponsors and community members plays a major role in keeping Pedaling for Parkinson’s classes completely free.These classes, held three times a we, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 11:15 to noon at the Roscoe Branch, have become a life-changing resource for participants. Research has shown that cycling at a steady, fast pace (around 80–90 revolutions per minute) can reduce Parkinson’s symptoms by up to 35%. It’s not a cure, but for many, it’s a major improvement in mobility, mood, and overall quality of life.Beyond this single event, the Stateline Family YMCA represents something bigger than just a gym. It’s a community cornerstone that promotes health, wellness, and belonging for people of all ages and backgrounds. From youth programs and swim lessons to adult fitness classes, family activities, and community outreach, the YMCA continues to deliver on its mission of strengthening body, mind, and spirit.The Roscoe-Rockton Branch in particular has become a hub for group fitness, youth sports, aquatics, and special programs like Pedaling for Parkinson’s. Members appreciate the personal, community-driven feel that sets it apart from other fitness centers. Meanwhile, the Beloit Branch serves as a central location for family recreation and wellness, hosting everything from swim lessons to youth development programs.Membership at the Stateline Family YMCA offers far more than access to fitness equipment. It connects people to a community that cares, one that values inclusion, wellness, and support. The Y offers programs for every stage of life, from early childhood education and after-school care to senior wellness classes. They also offer financial assistance to ensure that everyone has access to their facilities and programs, regardless of financial circumstances.The upcoming Spin-a-Thon is a great reminder of how much can be accomplished when a community comes together for a cause. Participants get to challenge themselves, connect with others, and directly support a program that’s changing lives right here in the Stateline area.So grab your cycling shoes or dancing sneakers, sign up for your favorite class, and get ready to make a difference on Sunday, November 2nd. Whether you spin, dance, donate, or simply spread the word, every effort helps keep this powerful program moving forward.The Stateline Family YMCA — building a stronger, healthier community, one pedal at a time.