Fibs: A Rockton favorite serving comfort food, cold beer, and hometown warmth

The landscape for small businesses and nonprofits in South Central Wisconsin is seeing a significant shift. We’ve heard that Rock County Jumpstart has officially transitioned into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, now operating under the name Jumpstart South Central Wisconsin (JSCW). Along with this new status, they mentioned a major reorganization designed to bring their support services to a much wider audience, specifically expanding into Green, Jefferson, and Walworth counties.The core mission shared by the organization is to strengthen communities by equipping underrepresented and under-resourced entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. The goal is to help these leaders build sustainable businesses and nonprofits that not only create local jobs but also drive inclusive economic development throughout the entire region.JSCW has structured its impact around three main pillars:Entrepreneurship Development: They support startups through incubators, accelerators, and coaching, with a specific focus on making sure owners are "capital ready."Technology Integration: Through their Tech Tank initiative, it was mentioned that they help founders leverage artificial intelligence and emerging tools to keep their operations competitive and tech-focused.Nonprofit Capacity Building: They assist grassroots nonprofits with the technical side of things, such as grant research, writing, and operational guidance to help them scale their community impact.Launching MAKE608: A Space to BuildOne of the most exciting updates we received is the launch of MAKE608, a prototyping and design lab. This lab is intended to be a hands-on space where entrepreneurs and aspiring creators can experiment and bring their ideas to life using professional technology and tools. Use of the lab is reportedly open to all small business owners across the four-county service area.An Invitation to the PublicTo mark this new chapter, they are hosting an Open House to welcome the community and showcase their new capabilities. This is an opportunity to meet the team and the Board members while getting a first-hand look at the MAKE608 lab.When: Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 5:30 PMWhere: 2080 Sutler Avenue, Beloit, WI 53511More Information: Detailed resources and updates can be found on their website at jumpstartscw.org.

If you’ve spent any time in downtown Rockton, you know that DeeDee’s Main Street Coffee & Décor is more than just a place to grab a caffeine fix—it’s the true heartbeat of the neighborhood. There is some exciting news brewing on Main Street, and if you’re a fan of local business power couples, you’re going to love this update. Stateline Buzz is thrilled to officially share that Christy and Jake Krupa have taken the reins as the new owners of DeeDee’s, ensuring this local staple stays in familiar hands.You probably already know Christy as the creative force behind Buckets n Blooms, the gorgeous floral shop that moved into the back of DeeDee’s last spring. What started as a few seasonal collaborations for holidays like Mother’s Day and Christmas naturally blossomed into a full-blown partnership. While the transition of ownership happened a little sooner than the Krupas initially expected, the timing felt right for everyone involved. The legendary DeeDee Weiser isn’t disappearing completely, either; she is staying on part-time to help with the transition while she focuses on her health and spends more time with her family.For those of you worried about your favorite morning hangout changing too much, you can breathe a sigh of relief. The Krupas are committed to preserving the "vibe" that makes DeeDee’s so special. Christy was adamant about keeping the original name and the welcoming atmosphere where regulars feel comfortable lingering over a conversation. Jake, who brings some past barista experience to the table, noted that while they want to honor the shop's identity, they are making a few small upgrades behind the scenes to make the customer experience even better.One of the first changes you might notice is a new sticker system to help the morning rush flow more smoothly. But the most exciting updates are happening in the mugs. The Krupas are currently scouting for a new local coffee roaster to keep their partnerships close to home. They are also expanding the menu to include a dedicated dark roast option for those who like their coffee bold, and they plan to start selling pre-packaged beans and brewing gear like French presses for the "at-home" baristas in our community.The connection between the coffee shop and the floral side is only getting stronger, too. New gift cards are on the way that will be usable for both coffee and flowers, making it easier than ever to grab a latte and a fresh bouquet in one stop. The shop has also updated its hours to 6:30 a.m. to noon on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Next time you’re strolling through downtown Rockton, make sure to stop in, try a sample of the new roast, and give a warm Stateline welcome to Christy and Jake as they begin this new chapter.

It’s official – I’ve booked my second tattoo with Cass, the incredible owner of Skin Deep Studio - Body Art & Beauty! If you haven't heard of this gem yet, prepare to have your world (and your skin) transformed. I’m so excited about my upcoming appointment, and it got me thinking about how much I want to share my amazing experiences with all of you.Skin Deep Studio isn't just a tattoo shop; it's a vibrant hub for a wide range of body art and beauty services. From stunning tattoos to piercing, and even cosmetic beauty treatments, they truly cater to making you feel and look your best. The atmosphere is always welcoming and professional, which is so important when you're getting something as personal as a tattoo or a piercing. They prioritize hygiene and client comfort above all else, making every visit a relaxing and enjoyable one.Their website is a fantastic resource if you’re curious to learn more. You can browse through impressive portfolios of their artists, including Cass, to get a feel for their diverse styles and exceptional talent. They also have detailed information about all the services they offer, what to expect during your appointment, and aftercare instructions. It’s super easy to navigate and gives you a comprehensive overview of everything they do. Beyond their website, you can find them active on social media, showcasing their latest work and keeping you updated on special offers and events. Trust me, once you see their work, you’ll be as hooked as I am!

A new space for relaxation, healing, and community is opening its doors in Roscoe. Access SOUL High Frequency Sanctuary, located at 11824 Main Street, is hosting an open house this Saturday, December 6, from 1 to 5 in the afternoon. A ribbon cutting with the Roscoe Village President will take place right at 1, and everyone is invited to stop in, meet the team, and explore what this new center has to offer.The center is led by founders Kelly Joy and Jim Simmons, who have been sharing sound baths and meditative experiences in the Stateline area for 15 years. Long before sound healing became a buzzword, they were introducing the community to singing bowls and vibrational instruments. Their goal has always been to make these deeply calming experiences accessible and affordable.Over the years their sessions have grown into full sound immersions featuring crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, gong, chimes, rain stick, ocean drum, Native American flute, and more. Each session is played intuitively, creating a unique experience every time while attendees rest in zero gravity chairs under soft lighting and warm blankets.Sound healing, sometimes called vibrational energy medicine, supports the body in relaxing and realigning. Because the body is mostly water, the vibrations help restore balance naturally. People often turn to sound healing to reduce stress, ease chronic pain, calm the nervous system, and shift out of fight or flight. Some describe it as deeply peaceful, while others report emotional or spiritual clarity. Some even drift right to sleep.Kelly and Jim say they’ve seen everything from instant pain relief to long lasting emotional shifts. They point to both science and personal stories from participants as proof of how powerful these practices can be.Beyond sound baths, the center hosts weekly meditation gatherings. Monday evenings at 6:30 and Tuesday lunch hour sessions offer simple, guided meditation in a welcoming environment. No experience is necessary, and the gatherings are donation based. Attendees sit comfortably and are guided toward stillness and inner calm, regardless of faith background.The couple hopes Access SOUL becomes a peaceful home base for anyone looking to slow down and reconnect. Along with meditation and sound healing, they also offer energy work and host a variety of workshops and events throughout the month.More details can be found on their website, or by contacting Kelly at the number provided.

There’s big news in the Stateline youth athletics world. Kids Spot in Roscoe just announced that they’re officially bringing Wight Tumble Academy and J and J Dance and Tumbling into their organization. If you’ve been around youth gymnastics, tumbling, or dance in our area, you already know these two programs have been shaping young athletes for decades.Kids Spot shared that this move is all about giving families more access to high level coaching, more classes, and more opportunities. They’re keeping a focus on what each program is already known for, while also expanding what’s available through their Roscoe and Pecatonica locations.The team at Kids Spot is welcoming all the athletes, coaches, and families from both programs. They’re keeping current staff in place and making sure athletes don’t miss a beat during the transition. Wight Tumble Academy will merge into Kids Spot’s Roscoe facilities, and the Pecatonica training space will continue operating for current students.Wight Tumble Academy has been a trusted name since 2002, led by coach Terry Wight and known for producing state and national champions. J and J Dance and Tumbling, which started back in 1958, has built generations of confident, skilled young athletes through its supportive coaching approach.Kids Spot itself has grown since opening in 2004, offering everything from gymnastics and tumbling to dance, cheer, and trampoline. This expansion strengthens their commitment to creating a fun, active, and encouraging space for kids to grow.It’s a big moment for the local sports community, and a promising one for families who want more options without losing the heart of the programs they love.

There are a lot of places to grab a treat around here, but Flying Pig is one of my absolute favorites, especially when I am craving their snickerdoodle cookie. I get one every time I go because it is that good. Soft, buttery, with just the right amount of cinnamon sugar, it is the kind of cookie that makes you smile with the first bite.One of my favorite tricks is picking up the day-old half-price cookies. I am not above eating a one-day-old cookie. To me, it just proves that Flying Pig bakes fresh cookies every single day, and even the leftovers are still amazing.Flying Pig offers more than just cookies. They have popcorn, ice cream, shakes, coffee, shaved ice, bubble tea, and candy. There is always something new to try or an old favorite to enjoy.The last time I visited, I did exactly what I always do. I grabbed a snickerdoodle and picked up a couple of day-old cookies to take home. I may have also checked out their popcorn flavors for later. There is something about the place that makes you slow down and just enjoy the moment.I keep going back for the consistency of their treats, the value, the variety, and the personality of the shop. Flying Pig is not just a sweet spot; it is a place that makes you feel happy every time you walk in.

Walnut Creek Apparel & Gifts has become a dependable stop for shoppers looking for locally minded gifts, custom apparel, and personalized goods in Beloit. The shop blends a retail boutique feel with practical services for schools, businesses, and community groups, offering everything from ready-made gift items to bulk ordering for spirit wear and corporate needs. Their storefront presence and webstore make it easy to browse seasonal items and promotional products year-round. Beyond shirts and mugs, Walnut Creek positions itself as a full-service provider for custom work. Customers can get screen printing, embroidery, laser engraving, and awards, along with name tags and promotional items. That mix of retail and production means they are useful to anyone planning an event, outfitting a team, or shopping for a thoughtful, personalized present. The store lists laser engraving and custom apparel services among its offerings.The shop is rooted in the downtown Beloit shopping district at 408 E. Grand Avenue, where regular hours and phone contact information are published for customers who want to call or stop in. Those looking for a quick holiday gift or a bespoke piece can visit during weekday and Saturday hours or reach out by phone or email to discuss custom orders and donations. One of the standout categories Walnut Creek stocks is a selection of wooden and wood accent cutting and serving boards that work beautifully as gifts. Their online catalog shows a range of sizes and styles, from two-tone bamboo butcher block style boards to acacia wood serving boards with slate insets and wine glass holders. Pricing is clearly shown for many items, which makes it easy to pick something within budget. The cutting board section lists both larger bamboo boards and smaller two-tone and acacia options.I can speak from experience. Last Christmas, I bought two of their wooden cutting boards as gifts, one for my mom and one for a friend. Both recipients still use those boards for special gatherings and as a focal point when they put together a cheeseboard for guests. The boards feel solid and presentable enough to double as a serving piece, which is exactly what you want when you are giving a useful gift that also looks good on the table.What makes these boards work as gifts is the balance of style and practicality. The bamboo and acacia pieces offer attractive grain and two-tone contrast that shows well when you are arranging cheeses, cured meats, and fruit. Some of the larger boards are described as butcher block inlay pieces, and others pair wood with slate for a more formal serving look. Several options are sized specifically for wine and cheese presentations, complete with small tool kits in certain bundles. That variety lets shoppers choose something suited for casual family use or for a more polished entertaining display.For anyone thinking about a holiday purchase or a custom-engraved gift, Walnut Creek is a place where you can combine personalization with locally available inventory. Whether you need to outfit a team with matching apparel, order a small run of branded items for a fundraiser, or pick up a handcrafted-looking board for a host gift, the shop offers both the products and the services to deliver finished pieces. If you prefer to talk about details in person, their contact information and hours are listed for easy planning.

The Beloit Police and Fire Commission has announced its intent to select Commander Schonella Stewart as the next City of Beloit Police Chief. A conditional offer was extended to Stewart, who has accepted the position pending a standard employment drug screen, background investigation, and formal approval from the commission. The PFC is expected to meet in early November to take official action on the selection.From what I learned, Stewart went through an extensive and competitive hiring process that included two rounds of interviews with the commission, an assessment center overseen by three police chiefs from other communities, a community forum, and interviews with both city leadership and department staff.Stewart brings nearly two decades of law enforcement experience to the role. She has served 19 years with the Oak Park Police Department in Illinois, moving up through the ranks from patrol officer to commander. Her career includes work as a juvenile investigator, detective, tactical officer, patrol sergeant, and investigations commander. She also participated in several specialized task forces, including homicide, Internet Crimes Against Children, FBI hijacking, and human trafficking.As a commander, she managed administrative, operational, and fiscal duties for the patrol, investigations, and community policing units. Her strong background in community engagement, media relations, and investigative tactics has earned her respect within her department and beyond.Stewart’s education and leadership credentials also stand out. She graduated from Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff and Command in December 2023, where she received the Franklin M. Kreml Leadership Award. She holds a Master of Social Work from Chicago State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Criminal Justice from Barber-Scotia College, where she graduated with Cum Laude honors.Before entering law enforcement in 2006, Stewart worked in social work, a background that adds a valuable community-centered approach to her policing philosophy.More information about the next steps will be released once the Police and Fire Commission makes its formal decision in early November.It’s always interesting to see new leadership coming into such an important local role, especially someone with Stewart’s blend of experience in law enforcement and community service. I’ll be keeping an eye on the commission’s next meeting for official confirmation.

The City of Beloit just rolled out an exciting update, a completely redesigned website that makes it easier than ever for residents to stay informed and connected.The new design is clean, modern, and user-friendly, offering a smoother experience whether you’re on your phone, tablet, or computer. But it’s more than just a facelift; this upgrade comes with new tools aimed at improving communication between the city and the community.One of the biggest features you’ll notice right away is the alert bulletin system at the top of the homepage. This space will be used for urgent updates such as winter weather emergencies, street closures, and other time-sensitive alerts. It’s a simple but powerful way to keep residents informed when it matters most.Beyond the alerts, the redesigned website also includes easier navigation for accessing city services, council information, and community programs, all part of Beloit’s continued efforts to create transparency and convenience for its residents.The City’s commitment to digital communication is clear: this isn’t just about a new look, it’s about making sure every resident can find what they need quickly, stay updated on local developments, and feel more connected to the place they call home.It’s great to see Beloit taking this step forward with a design that reflects both the city’s growth and its ongoing dedication to public engagement.👉 You can check out the City of Beloit’s brand-new website for yourself and explore all the updates firsthand.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and everyone’s got that one side dish they look forward to more than the turkey itself. Personally, I think the sides are what make the whole meal — that perfect bite of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy can’t be beat.So I’m curious — what’s your go-to Thanksgiving side dish? Is it Grandma’s green bean casserole, the sweet potatoes covered in marshmallows, or maybe something totally unique to your family table?Cast your vote in the poll below 👇 and let’s see which side dish wins the Stateline’s heart this year.