Get to know your local YMCA

If you’re looking for a place in Beloit where the food is thoughtful, the atmosphere is warm, and every detail feels just right, Liberty House Grill should be at the top of your list. Tucked away on Liberty Avenue, this spot offers an upscale dining experience without feeling too formal or out of reach.I stopped in recently and met the owner, Joel. Joel has been around restaurants his entire life. His dad owns a well-known place in Chicago, so running a kitchen and creating a great customer experience is something that comes naturally to him. Two years ago, he took over Liberty House Grill and has really shaped it into something special for the Stateline area.The space is elegant but still feels relaxed. It’s the kind of place where you can dress up for a date night or bring the whole family for a nice dinner. Every table is treated like a priority, and the service reflects that from the moment you walk in.Now let’s talk food. The menu is packed with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Think BBQ baby back ribs, gourmet burgers, house made pastas, and standout surf and turf plates. I had the shrimp and scallops, and I’m still thinking about how perfectly they were cooked. If brunch is more your thing, make sure to stop by on a Sunday between nine and two. Their brunch is one of the best I’ve had in the area, and the steak and eggs hit the spot.One feature that really makes this place unique is the downstairs wine cellar. It opens on weekends and serves as an exclusive spot for private dinners and small gatherings. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or someone who knows their vintages, there’s something here for you.Joel and his team have built a space that feels both refined and welcoming. It is clear they care about the customer experience just as much as the food they put on the plate. From the ambiance to the presentation, everything is done with purpose.If you’re planning your next night out or want to treat yourself to a great meal, Liberty House Grill is well worth a visit. Check out their full menu and more details on their website at www.libertyhousegrill.comThis is one of those spots you’ll come back to again and again.

I recently stopped by the South Beloit Public Library to see what it was all about. I’ve always known it was there, but I never took the time to really explore it until now. And wow, I’m glad I did. This place has way more going on than I expected.Right when I walked in, I met Brenda and Elaine. They’re the ones running the show, and they couldn’t have been more welcoming. You can tell they love what they do. They were excited to share everything the library offers, and I could feel their energy from the start.The space itself is cozy, clean, and inviting. There’s a kids area filled with books and toys, plus a solid collection of DVDs, graphic novels, and even a Spanish book section. It feels like a place where anyone can come in and find something they enjoy. They also have something called the Library of Things. I thought that was super cool. You can borrow things like mobile hotspots, disc golf kits, and more. It’s such a great resource for the community.One of my favorite parts was learning about their events and programs. They’ve got story time for kids every Thursday and Friday morning, which is perfect for families. There’s a LEGO club, adult book clubs, and even a craft and activity night. They also have something called the Armchair Traveler series, where they highlight one of the 50 states and pair it with a book, movie, and recipe. It’s a fun way to experience a new place without leaving town.Right now, their Summer Reading Program is in full swing. It runs from June 2 through July 26, and it’s built to make reading fun for kids. They log their minutes, earn stickers, get weekly prizes, and can even win treats from Dari Ripple when they hit their goals. Whether they’re reading books, comics, magazines, or being read to, it all counts.Another awesome service they offer is homebound delivery. If someone is physically unable to visit the library due to age, illness, or disability, they’ll deliver books and materials straight to their door. That kind of thoughtfulness is what really sets this place apart.The South Beloit Public Library is more than a place to check out books. It’s a hub for creativity, learning, and community connection. And it’s run by people who truly care about making a difference. If you haven’t been in a while or have never visited, I highly recommend stopping by.Whether you’re a parent looking for things to do with your kids, someone who loves to read, or just curious about what your local library can offer, this is a great place to start. And if you want to support what they’re doing, ask how you can get involved. Every little bit helps keep these programs running and growing.Big shoutout to Brenda, Elaine, and the whole team at the South Beloit Public Library. Thanks for all you do.

Every once in a while, you meet people who instantly make you stop and reflect. That happened when I met Juan and Rose, the heart and hands behind Cuts for Christ.Since October 2023, this husband-and-wife duo has been showing up for the Stateline community in a powerful way, offering free haircuts, clothing, food, and hygiene supplies to those in need. No strings attached. No judgment. Just love and service.Juan’s been cutting hair for nearly two decades. He once had a chair at Five Star in Janesville, building up his craft and connecting with clients. But his journey took a turn after a moment of inspiration struck from the most unexpected place—TikTok. He saw another creator giving free haircuts to the homeless, and it hit him hard. Juan told me it stirred something in his heart that he couldn’t ignore. It wasn’t just a nice idea… it was a calling.And instead of overthinking it or waiting for the “right time,” Juan and Rose just started. They went out into the community with clippers, clothes, and compassion, funding the whole operation themselves.When I met them, they were working their way through a line of folks waiting patiently for haircuts. But what stood out even more than the buzzing of clippers was the energy—calm, kind, a, d welcoming. Everyone who came up to them left a little more confident, a little more cared for.We talked in between haircuts. Juan told me, “Everyone has a gift. I’m just using mine.” And that stuck with me. His message isn’t about being a barber or a nonprofit founder. It’s about realizing that we all have something we can use to help others. Whether that’s a trade, a talent, or even just time, when you give it with love, it matters.Rose, by the way, is a force in her own right. While Juan’s handling the haircuts, she’s organizing care kits, handing out snacks, and making sure people feel seen. This isn’t just charity, it’s community-building at its core.Cuts for Christ is now officially a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and they’re continuing to grow the mission. But they still need support. They’re doing big things on a grassroots budget, and any donation can help keep their work going—more supplies, more cuts, more impact.I left our time together feeling grateful, inspired, and a little challenged—in the best way. It’s easy to get caught up in our own lives, but Juan and Rose reminded me what it looks like to simply show up for people.If you’re looking for a way to give back or support something truly meaningful here in the Stateline area, check out Cuts for Christ. You can donate directly, follow their journey, or even volunteer if you feel called.This isn’t just about haircuts. It’s about restoring dignity, spreading hope, and reminding people they matter.

On a recent trip to Monroe, Wisconsin, I had the chance to meet Simon—the owner and founder of Dynamic Agronomics—and learn about the heart, hustle, and technology behind his growing ag business.Simon’s story starts the way many great Midwest stories do: in a small farm town. He grew up surrounded by agriculture, learning early on the value of hard work, community, and the land. After heading off to college and gaining experience in the field through a few ag-related jobs, Simon felt that pull to come back home. Not just to return, but to contribute—to be a part of the same world that raised him.Two years ago, he made that vision real by launching Dynamic Agronomics, an independent ag retail business that’s all about helping local farmers succeed in an ever-changing industry. The company offers everything from seed and chemical sourcing to nutrient management, crop scouting, drone application, and more. What stood out to me most is how Simon blends modern tools with real-world knowledge.During my visit, Simon showed me one of the drones he uses in the field—and it’s no toy. This drone is nearly 100 pounds and stands about as tall as I. It’s controlled through a DJI tablet, where Simon can map out flight paths with pinpoint precision for seed or chemical application. It’s efficient, accurate, and a perfect example of how he’s leveling up traditional farming with smart tech.But that’s just one part of the story. Beyond the drone, he has tools and equipment designed to make every step of the job faster and more effective, from same-day leaf sampling and soil analysis to seed treating and liquid fertilizer solutions. Everything he does is to support growers, because he knows what’s on the line for them.What makes Dynamic Agronomics special is more than just what they offer. It’s the way Simon has rooted his business in the same community that raised him. His no-nonsense, hands-on approach shows he’s not in it for flash—he’s here to do the work, help people, and grow something meaningful.So if you’re in or around the Monroe area and you're a grower looking for honest guidance, cutting-edge tools, and someone who genuinely cares about the land, you need to check out Dynamic Agronomics.Learn more about their services at www.dynamicagronomics.com.

I’ve met a lot of business owners through Stateline Buzz, but few are as hands-on—and as passionate—as the owner of Spring King Overhead Garage Door Service.We met at a job site, right in the middle of a garage door installation. And from the second I showed up, I could tell this wasn’t just another project for him—it was personal. He took time out of his work to walk me through every step of the process, from removing the old door to installing the new one with precision and care. Watching him work, it honestly felt like he was installing it on his own home.That level of pride in craftsmanship? You don’t see it every day.From Side Hustle to Success StoryBefore launching Spring King in 2019, the owner—AJ—spent years learning the trade. He started out helping his dad, a handyman, and eventually turned what was once a side hustle into a thriving full-time business. And while the company has grown, AJ still shows up at job sites, tools in hand, making sure everything gets done right.It’s one thing to run a business. It’s another to live it every day. That’s what stood out to me most.More Than Just Garage DoorsSpring King specializes in residential garage door installations, repairs, and opener systems. Whether you're upgrading your home’s curb appeal or just need a quick fix on a busted spring, they’ve got you covered.They carry and install all types of garage doors—from classic wood to modern steel—and offer openers with smart features that make life easier and more secure. Plus, they’re fast. I’ve heard from multiple customers that Spring King shows up when others don’t and gets the job done right the first time.Serving the Stateline Area with HeartBased in South Beloit, Spring King serves communities across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin—from Roscoe and Rockton to Janesville, Madison, and even Monroe. If you live in the Stateline area, chances are you’ve seen their work and didn’t even realize it.And what really sets them apart? Their reliability. I heard firsthand stories about late-night emergency repairs and weekend installations—just to make sure a family’s garage door was working before a big storm or trip. That kind of dedication isn’t something you can fake.Final ThoughtsThis visit was a reminder of what I love most about covering small businesses in our community. People like AJ at Spring King aren’t just providing a service—they’re building trust, one home at a time.If you're in need of garage door work—whether it’s a full replacement, quick repair, or adding a smart opener system—I can’t recommend Spring King Overhead Garage Door Service enough. You'll get experience, professionalism, and a whole lot of heart.📍 Based in South Beloit, IL 📞 (608) 921-9723 🌐 springkingoverheaddoor.com

Behind Sour Cotton Candy

When you hear The Salvation Army, your mind probably jumps straight to the thrift stores — racks of clothing, shelves of household treasures, and those iconic red kettles during the holidays. But recently, I had the chance to meet with Michelle and Chiara and take a deeper look at the other side of The Salvation Army Rock County — the one making a major difference in the lives of local families every single day.The Salvation Army’s mission is rooted in service — to meet human needs in His name without discrimination. And here in Rock County, they’re living that mission in a big way.At their core, The Salvation Army Rock County offers a huge range of social services that go way beyond what most people realize. They provide emergency shelter for those facing cold nights with nowhere to go, financial assistance to help families stay afloat during tough times, and food programs that make sure nobody has to go hungry. Their community pantries in Janesville and Beloit are open multiple days a week, and they even offer free community meals — making sure everyone has a seat at the table.But it doesn’t stop there.When disaster strikes, The Salvation Army’s Disaster Services Team is ready to jump into action — bringing food, clothing, faith, and emotional support to those affected by floods, fires, or storms. Their rapid response efforts aren’t just about immediate needs; they’re about healing the mind, body, and soul.One of the coolest things I learned is about their Life Hack Classes — monthly sessions designed to empower people with practical life skills. From protecting yourself against scams, to learning the ins and outs of renting a home successfully, to managing finances — these classes are tailored to what the community needs most at any given time.They even host the Rent Smart Series, helping participants build a positive rental history and better relationships with landlords. These aren’t just classes — they’re life-changing opportunities that build confidence and open doors.The Salvation Army Rock County also offers church services, Bible study groups, and men’s and women’s ministries. Their open gym nights provide safe spaces for kids and families to connect, have fun, and stay active. And for families with children under 18, programs like Pathway of Hope help guide them toward stability by connecting them with resources and long-term support.At every turn, it’s clear: they’re not just providing a service — they’re building community, offering hope, and walking alongside people in their toughest moments.If you’d like to get involved, find support, or just learn more about everything The Salvation Army Rock County is doing, check out their website at RockCountySA.org or visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/RockCountySA.Huge thank you again to Michelle and  Chiara for showing me around and sharing the heart behind the mission! This is exactly the kind of good happening right here in our community — and it deserves to be celebrated. ❤️

Historic Attractions Opens for the Season – Here's What You Can Expect!The wait is over—Historic Attractions is officially open for the season, and it's packed with exciting new additions and longtime favorites that make it a must-visit destination for history buffs, pop culture fans, and car lovers alike!One of the biggest highlights this year is the expansion of the Marilyn Monroe and Buddy Holly exhibits. Visitors can dive even deeper into the lives of these cultural icons with newly added personal items, rare photographs, and memorabilia that tell their stories like never before. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering their legacies for the first time, the updated displays offer a fresh and fascinating glimpse into the golden age of American entertainment.But that's just the beginning of what Historic Attractions has to offer. With over 80,000 square feet of exhibits, there’s something for everyone to explore:Hall of Presidents: Walk through American history and see artifacts connected to past and present U.S. presidents.NASA Space Exhibit: Travel beyond Earth with a fascinating look at space exploration history, from Apollo missions to modern discoveries.Gangster Land: Step back in time and explore the lives of infamous figures like John Dillinger and Bonnie & Clyde.Super Heroes: See legendary movie cars up close, including the Batmobile, the DeLorean from Back to the Future, and the Ecto-1 from Ghostbusters.Egyptian Movie Exhibit: View authentic props from the classic movie Cleopatra, starring Elizabeth Taylor.A Journey Through Time: Marvel at an incredible collection of antique clocks, vintage pianos, and historic instruments.War Room Exhibit: Discover powerful artifacts and stories from World War I and beyond.Each exhibit is carefully curated to bring history to life, offering a hands-on, unforgettable experience that visitors of all ages will enjoy. Whether you’re into presidents, pop icons, superheroes, or historic vehicles, there’s a story waiting for you around every corner.🎟️ Tickets are available online now, so don’t miss your chance to be among the first to experience all the new updates and timeless favorites at Historic Attractions. Grab your tickets, bring your family and friends, and get ready to step into history!

If you’re looking for a place where history truly comes to life, Macktown Living History should be at the top of your list. I recently had the chance to explore this incredible site, and let me tell you — it’s like stepping straight into the past!Located right where the Pecatonica and Rock Rivers meet, Macktown is actually the first settlement in what’s now Winnebago County. People have been living on this land for over 8,000 years, and when you visit, you can really feel that deep connection to history. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and packed with stories waiting to be discovered.Macktown Living History isn’t just a museum you walk through — it’s an experience. Lucy, one of the amazing volunteers, gave me a tour and shared so much about the site. Everything here is kept alive by volunteers who are passionate about preserving and teaching our local history.You can explore original buildings like the 1839 Stephen Mack Home and the 1846 Whitman Trading Post. There’s even a rebuilt Stevens Shop, which once housed the first schoolhouse in the entire county! The area is part of the National Register of Historic Places, and it even includes traces of prehistoric cultures dating back thousands of years. It's truly humbling to walk the same paths that generations before us once did.Throughout the year, Macktown hosts family-friendly special events that bring history to life with reenactments, hands-on activities, and interactive educational programs. It’s a perfect place to take your kids, go on a casual walk, or just soak up some local history in a beautiful outdoor setting. The grounds are open during regular Macktown Forest Preserve hours, and tours can be booked by appointment if you want to dive deeper into the stories.And here's something I think is so important to know — Macktown Living History relies entirely on donations and volunteers. All the work you see, from the preservation of buildings to the educational programs, is fueled by community members who love this place and believe in its mission. If you’re looking for a way to give back or get involved, consider signing up to volunteer or making a donation. Every little bit helps keep this culturally significant site alive for future generations.Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a unique way to spend the day, Macktown Living History is a spot you’ll want to visit — and revisit. Learn more, get involved, or plan your trip by visiting macktownlivinghistory.com.P.S. Huge thanks to Lucy and all the volunteers for keeping the spirit of Macktown alive — it’s truly a gift to our community!

It’s not easy finding a breakfast spot where the whole family feels comfortable, especially with little kids in tow. But this weekend, we found a gem that hit all the right notes: Stateline Cafe in South Beloit.If you’re local, you might remember this place as Jane’s Cafe. In July 2023, it reopened with a new name and new ownership, but with the same cozy vibes. The new owner? A longtime server who loved connecting with people so much, she decided to buy the place herself. And you can feel that passion the second you walk in.We kicked off our morning with some freshly brewed coffee—smooth, rich, and just what you need on a weekend morning. The kids were happy right away, coloring at the table while we looked over the menu. Pro tip: If you’ve got little ones, ask about the Mickey Mouse-shaped pancakes. Ours came topped with chocolate chips and whipped cream, and our girls were in heaven.My wife ordered the French toast, golden and buttery with just the right crisp on the outside. I went with the traditional two-egg breakfast, and the standout item? The sausage. These were not your average little links—they were large, full of flavor, and perfectly cooked. (Undercooked pork is a no-go in our house, so this was a big deal.)Everything is made from scratch here—even the shredded hashbrowns. It’s the kind of homemade quality that’s getting harder to find, and you can taste the difference.After breakfast, we let the girls take a shot at the claw machine near the front. We didn’t win, but the excitement made for the perfect ending to our meal.What stood out the most, besides the food, was the service. Our server was kind, attentive, and so good with our kids. You can tell this is a family-run bbusinessdaughter of the former owner still works here, which just adds to the heartwarming feel of the place.Stateline Cafe serves breakfast and lunch with some dinner options and rotating monthly specials. Locals rave about “The Southern”—a dish with sausage gravy poured over hashbrowns and biscuits. We’ll be back to try that next time.They’re only closed on Mondays, so you’ve got six other days to swing by and see for yourself. Whether you’re a regular or trying it for the first time, Stateline Cafe is the kind of place that makes you feel like part of the family.