Positive News, Stories, & Stateline Buzz Polls

Historic Auto Attractions extends heartfelt thanks to Chief Historian Tony Farrell and his wife, Londa Farrell, for creating a truly unique and interactive visitor experience. On Saturdays and special weekdays, Tony and Londa bring history to life with their dedication and passion.For over 20 years, Tony has conducted extensive research on the museum’s artifacts, even connecting with family members to uncover their stories. Londa has been by his side, documenting these important conversations and preserving the details.This Saturday, from 1 PM to 3 PM, stop by for a one-of-a-kind experience guided by Tony and Londa. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore history in an unforgettable way! ❤

DeeDee’s Main Street Coffee invites you to warm up with a hot cup of coffee and cozy vibes! ☕️✨ Whether you’re savoring a perfectly brewed drink or shopping for unique gifts, there’s something special waiting for you.They’re also selling tickets for the Historic Home Tour, happening this Sunday from 4-7 PM, for just $20! And parents, it’s the perfect time for your little ones to write their letters to Santa. 🎅 Drop them off in DeeDee’s adorable Santa mailbox by December 15th with a pre-addressed envelope and stamp to receive a reply from Santa himself! 📮🎄 It’s also a great spot for a sweet photo opportunity.Don’t forget to explore everything happening at the Rockton Christmas Walk while you’re there. Stop by DeeDee’s soon!

Martial arts is a journey of self-discovery. You learn to know yourself better with every practice."- BJ Penn, UFC Hall of Famer and BJJ World ChampionEmbark on a journey of self-discovery with BJ Penn's insight. Each practice brings you closer to understanding yourself. Join us on the mats and start your journey today!

Shred, Roll, Transform: FAQs Unleashed!Q: "Will I lose weight training BJJ?" A: Absolutely! BJJ is not just a sport; it's a body-mind revolution! Melt away stress and calories on the mats with high-energy rolls, dynamic drills, and a ton of fun. Ready to unleash the warrior within and sculpt a leaner, stronger YOU? Join us on the mats and let the weight-loss journey begin! Your transformation is just a roll away!

The greater Beloit area has a new local business designed to meet a crucial need—efficient, affordable, and professional airport transportation. Andrew Hagen, the owner and operator, is offering a service that is already setting itself apart with its focus on quality and value. After sitting down with Andrew and learning about his journey, it’s clear this isn’t just another transportation option—it’s a thoughtfully crafted service born from his passion for building something meaningful.The Journey to Starting a BusinessFor Andrew, the inspiration to start his business wasn’t tied to a singular moment but rather a long-standing desire to build something of his own. He shared that the appeal of creating a service with real value and the challenge of starting from scratch fueled his journey. His determination to make his business a success is evident in every aspect of his operation.What Sets This Service Apart?Andrew’s airport transportation service is simple in concept but exceptional in execution. Serving airports including Milwaukee (MKE), Madison (MSN), Rockford (RFD), and Chicago O’Hare (ORD), he offers a transportation experience that combines professionalism and affordability. What makes his service unique is the meticulous attention to customer needs:Professional Service: Forget the typical cab experience—Andrew ensures a polished and comfortable ride.High-Quality Vehicles: His brand-new, reliable vehicle adds a layer of assurance for travelers.Specialized for Smaller Groups: Ideal for groups of 1-3, his service is perfect for families or business travelers.Efficiency Equals Affordability: The smaller vehicle size keeps operating costs down, meaning customers enjoy lower prices.Locally Owned Expertise: As a Beloit native, Andrew knows the area like the back of his hand and deeply values his customers.Round-the-Clock Availability: No more struggling with bus schedules—Andrew is available 24/7 to meet appointment needs.With a focus on making airport travel stress-free and cost-effective, Andrew is redefining what customers can expect from a local transportation provider.A Business Rooted in BeloitAndrew’s love for Beloit shines through in his story. Raised in the area and now raising his own family here, he is deeply connected to the community. He finds inspiration in Beloit’s growth, especially the vibrant downtown district. Whether it’s enjoying a game at the Sky Carp stadium or spending time in the area’s local businesses, Andrew’s pride in his hometown is clear. His local roots also bring a unique advantage—his intimate knowledge of the Stateline area means he can offer customers a truly personalized service.Why This Service MattersFor residents of Beloit and the surrounding area, Andrew’s airport transportation business fills a much-needed gap. Whether you’re catching an early-morning flight or returning home late at night, you can count on a reliable, professional ride that won’t break the bank. With Andrew at the helm, every trip is handled with care and dedication.If you’re in need of a dependable ride to or from the airport, look no further than Andrew Hagen’s transportation service. It’s local, affordable, and built with the community in mind—everything you want when you’re planning your travels.

❄️ Looking for winter fun for the whole family? Visit Beloit has you covered! 🌟 Check out their amazing article packed with exciting activities to keep you entertained all winter long. Click the link and start planning your winter adventures today! ⛄️ https://visitbeloit.com/things-to-do-in-winter

For over 70 years, Williams Tree Farm has been at the heart of holiday celebrations, creating cherished memories for families across the Stateline area. Nestled in the countryside, this family-owned and operated treasure is more than just a place to find your perfect Christmas tree—it’s a destination steeped in history and holiday magic.A Legacy Rooted in TraditionThe story of Williams Tree Farm began in the 1940s when Carlton and Amelia Williams, along with their son Wayne, purchased the property. Originally a dairy and hog farm, the land played a pivotal role in the community as it provided timber for the iconic Wagon Wheel Resort in Rockton, IL.In a show of stewardship and care for the land, the family planted seedlings to replace the harvested trees. Years later, a winter storm led to a shortage of Christmas trees, and those very seedlings became a solution to meet demand. That moment sparked the beginning of a new chapter for the Williams family—one that would bring joy to countless households for decades to come.From shipping Christmas trees across the Midwest to pioneering the choose-and-cut farm experience, Williams Tree Farm has been a leader in blending tradition with innovation. Today, it’s not just a farm but a place where families can embrace the spirit of the season.A Holiday Event to RememberThis holiday season, Williams Tree Farm is bringing back a beloved tradition: Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the enchanting Pine Tree Village. Imagine the joy on your little ones’ faces as they share their Christmas wishes with Santa himself.📅 Event Dates:November 23rd, 24th, 29th, and 30thDecember 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, and 22nd⏰ Time: 10 AM – 4 PMThis event is perfect for capturing those heartwarming holiday moments while soaking in the cozy atmosphere of the farm. Whether it’s your first visit or a yearly tradition, Williams Tree Farm offers the perfect backdrop for your holiday memories.More Than a Tree FarmWhile the Christmas trees are the main attraction, Williams Tree Farm offers so much more. From scenic walks and festive photo opportunities to a charming selection of holiday treats and decorations, every visit feels like stepping into a winter wonderland.Plan Your VisitWilliams Tree Farm continues to carry forward its mission of creating unforgettable experiences for families. Whether you’re here to pick out the perfect tree, visit Santa, or simply enjoy the nostalgic charm of the farm, you’ll leave with memories to last a lifetime.For more information about their offerings and events, visit their website or follow them on social media.This holiday season, make Williams Tree Farm a part of your family’s tradition—and discover why it’s been a cherished destination for generations.

Weekend Sale at Truly Treasured Gift n Thrift! Looking for that perfect gift or a hidden gem to treasure? This weekend, dive into a world of unique finds at Truly Treasured Gift n Thrift! Whether you're hunting for a new outfit, purse, or shoes, one-of-a-kind gifts, vintage treasures or simply love the thrill of a great deal, we've got something for YOU! Sale Highlights: 25-50% off select fall and Christmas decorations – Get your home ready for the season with festive finds! Up to 75% off select items – Explore our curated collection of timeless treasures. Exclusive gift bundles – Perfectly packaged for easy, thoughtful presents. When: Friday to Sunday Nov. 22-24thFri. 10-7, Sat. 10-5, andSun. 12-5 Where: Truly Treasured Gift n Thrift, 112 W. Main;Rockton, Il.Don’t miss out – the treasure hunt starts NOW! See you soon!

Downtown Beloit is a special place, filled with charm, creativity, and a strong sense of community. One of its greatest strengths lies in its incredible network of women-owned businesses. Recently, our downtown area painted itself pink for a special Pink Friday event—a celebration of women entrepreneurs coming together to uplift each other, support local shopping, and share big dreams.The event was more than just a shopping experience; it was a testament to the power of collaboration and the spirit of women supporting women. Businesses like Walnut Creek Apparel & Gifts, Pizzazz Gift & Apparel Boutique, The Villager Gallery & Frame Shop, Chic & Unique Home Decor & Gifts, and Always & Forever Formal Wear all joined forces to create an unforgettable day for shoppers.Even with challenges like scaffolding lining some storefronts, the energy and determination of these business owners shone through. Open doors, welcoming smiles, and sales galore reminded everyone of the resilience and creativity that these women bring to the community. Whether you were grabbing an adorable pink hoodie, finding unique gifts, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, it was clear that Downtown Beloit is more than just a place to shop—it’s a hub of inspiration and connection.What makes this story even more heartwarming is the shared commitment to empowering each other. Events like these show that when women work together, they don’t just support their businesses—they support their community, their neighbors, and the dreamers who aspire to do the same.So the next time you’re in Downtown Beloit, take a moment to visit these amazing shops. Behind every storefront is a story of passion, hard work, and a dream turned into reality. Let’s continue to celebrate and support the incredible women who make our downtown a vibrant and welcoming space for everyone.Here’s to shopping small, dreaming big, and always lifting each other up. 💕

Happy Fabulous Friday! Start your weekend off right! Stop in and treat yourself to a Dee-licious Specialty Coffee paired perfectly with a Mini Cinnamon Roll.And while you're here check out grab n go gifts. Oh and don't forget to pick up a Beautiful Mini Arrangement or a Sweet Houseplant to brighten your day and home from our Sweet Buckets n Blooms ! See you soon

Get ready, Rockton! This Small Business Saturday is shaping up to be an incredible day of shopping, fun, and community spirit. On November 30th, Downtown Rockton will be buzzing with excitement as we celebrate the creativity and talent of over 20 amazing local vendors and bring back the much-loved Rockton Roadies Friendship Bracelet event. Whether you’re a seasoned local shopper or new to supporting small businesses, this day offers something for everyone.Start your day at Talcott Library (101 E. Main St.) to pick up your FREE Rockton Roadies Friendship Bracelet starter kit starting at 10 AM. This fun, family-friendly activity was a huge hit last year, and we’re thrilled to bring it back as our way of saying thank you for supporting local. Once you have your kit, explore participating shops to collect unique beads and charms to create your bracelet. Stop by designated locations (TBA) to pick up extra beads or even sit and work on your bracelet. Or, if you’d prefer, take everything home to finish later. This activity is perfect for all ages and a great way to connect with friends and family while discovering everything Rockton has to offer.While you’re crafting and exploring, don’t miss out on the Small Business Saturday Vendor Sale. With over 20 local vendors under one roof, you’ll find one-of-a-kind treasures and holiday gifts that support small businesses in our community. Plus, for every $20 you spend in the store, you’ll earn an entry into the Gift Basket Giveaway featuring several amazing prize baskets filled with goodies from our vendors.Shopping small is more than just finding great products—it’s about supporting dreams, families, and the community that makes Rockton such a special place. This Small Business Saturday, let’s come together to celebrate the incredible creativity of our local entrepreneurs and the connections that make our town so unique.So, mark your calendars for November 30th and join us in Downtown Rockton. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, making memories with your loved ones, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, it’s going to be a day to remember. See you there!

This holiday season, Beloit Public Library is inviting the community to make a difference while tackling those pesky library fines! Through November 30th, patrons can donate nonperishable food items to receive $1 off their library fines for every item donated—up to $10 per account, per day.Here’s how it works: Bring in unopened, undamaged, and unexpired nonperishable food items to the library. For each item donated, you’ll earn $1 credit toward late fines. Please note, this promotion only applies to late fines and excludes fees for lost, stolen, or damaged items.All the food donations will go to the Beloit Caritas Community Resource Center, an organization that has been providing food, clothing, and support to neighbors in need for over 40 years. The library is looking for a variety of food items, including:Fruits: Canned in juice, unsweetened applesauce, 100% fruit juice, dried fruits like raisins or craisins.Vegetables: Canned vegetables without added salt.Meats and Beans: Canned chicken, ham, beef, tuna, or salmon; peanuts, peanut butter, and all kinds of beans.Dairy: Yogurt and cheese.Grains: Whole-grain, low-sugar cereal, crackers, popcorn, enriched pasta, and instant rice.Miscellaneous: Spaghetti sauce, salsa, reduced-sodium broths and soups, salad dressings, spreads, and baby food.Meal Makers: Boxed meals like Hamburger Helper.This is a great opportunity to give back to the community while clearing your fines. If you have questions or need more information, stop by the Beloit Public Library or call them at (608) 364-2905.So, gather those pantry items, head over to the library, and make a real difference for yourself and the community. Don’t miss out—this promotion ends November 30th!

Experience an unforgettable Black Friday at the Historic Attractions Museum! Instead of battling the typical shopping chaos, take a journey through time and explore captivating history. This holiday season, be sure to visit before they close for the season for a truly memorable adventure.On Black Friday, the museum is offering fantastic deals that are hard to resist: buy-one-get-one 20% off on their exclusive T-shirts and a generous 40% off everything in the gift shop. Whether you’re searching for a unique gift or a special memento, this is the perfect opportunity.Make sure to mark Friday, November 29th, on your calendar, and add the Historic Attractions Museum to your must-visit list this holiday season. It's the ideal destination for fun and discovery! Don’t miss out!

I just have to share this awesome story I heard about the Snacks and Stuff Truck and Catering! So, they recently catered the Rock County Jumpstart Pitch Night event, and it was a huge hit! They got to showcase some of their new and upcoming menu items, and everyone loved it.The positive energy at the event was off the charts, and the feedback they received was amazing. Snacks and Stuff is so grateful for the opportunity and the warm embrace from the community. They’re really looking forward to serving everyone again soon and bringing more tasty treats your way. Stay tuned for what they cook up next! 🍴✨

We’re so grateful for each of you who trusts The Beloit Mattress Company to make your sleep dreams come true! Whether you order online or shop in our showroom, we’re here to deliver the same 5-star service and quality every time. Here are what some of our recent valued customers had to say about tehir experience:-- “Mattress quality better than we could have dreamed. Real materials, real service, real quality. Thanks, Beloit Mattress Company!” – Josh G. “Great experience at Beloit Mattress. Very friendly and informative.” – David M. “They were very helpful and gave us lots of information. Delivery was quick and helpful, and the mattress is incredibly comfortable!” – Connie G. “Friendly people on the phone, able to narrow down the perfect mattress. Flawless order process, and we’re happy it’s made in the USA.” – Sandy M. “Staff is so very helpful! We live far away from the store, and they helped tremendously with our purchase and shipping.” – Lee B.--To all of you – thank you for being a part of our family! We’re honored to serve you and bring you the best in comfort, quality, value, and service.

I just found out about this amazing local business here in Beloit called The Beloit Mattress Company! 🌟 It's a family-run company that's been around for five generations. I saw a photo of Eleanor and Ryan Poppie handcrafting a mattress right here in town, really sticking to their roots of quality and care.Even today, they continue to embrace those same values, crafting custom-built mattresses and offering personalized service. Their dedication to comfort is unwavering. ❤️ It's incredible to see such a commitment through the years. Big shoutout to everyone who's been part of their journey! If you're in the area, you’ve got to check them out!

Begin your day with the warm and inviting embrace of DeeDee's Main Street Coffee & Decor this winter season. As the chilly air surrounds you, there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a steaming cup of their expertly brewed rich coffee or indulging in a decadent, creamy hot chocolate to awaken your senses and lift your spirits. Each sip promises to brighten your morning, providing a comforting start to the day. As you savor your drink, take a moment to explore the enchanting collection of holiday decor that fills the shop. From twinkling lights to charming ornaments, their selection offers the perfect pieces to add a festive touch to your home, transforming it into a cozy haven of holiday cheer. Whether you're looking for unique gifts or just want to capture the essence of the season, DeeDee's is your one-stop destination. So, why not make a visit and see for yourself? Stop by, enjoy the delightful aromas, and let DeeDee's Main Street Coffee & Decor make your mornings merrier and your holiday season even brighter.

Hey everyone! So, I just have to tell you about this amazing new art project that's popped up downtown. It's seriously something special! They've wrapped five electrical boxes with some stunning artwork, and it's like the city just got a little more colorful and vibrant.First up, there's this piece called "Untitled" by Alison Packard. Alison's got some deep roots here—being Beloit born and raised, and she's a Health and Physical Education teacher at BMHS. Art has always been her jam, and you can totally tell she loves it. This piece is just a taste of her passion for drawing and painting, and it's so cool to see her hobby shine like this in our city.And then, there's "In Full Boom" by Kelly Witte. Let me tell you, this one is something else! Kelly hails from Racine, Wisconsin, and she's got quite the artistic background. A 2010 grad from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, she’s got a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art with a focus on Interdisciplinary Art. Her bold style is influenced by pop art, surrealism, and retro imagery—it's just so eye-catching and fun!If you’re curious, you can read more about Alison, Kelly, and the other artists on the Beloit Art Center’s website. I’m just so thrilled about this collaboration between the Beloit Art Center and Visit Beloit. Seriously, a big shoutout to Rockford Silk Screen for making these installations happen!If you haven’t checked them out yet, make sure you do. These pieces are truly a treat for the eyes and a wonderful addition to our city!

Hey everyone! 🎄 Looking for that perfect holiday gift that’s truly one-of-a-kind? Let me tell you about a hidden gem I just discovered: Truly Treasured Gift n Thrift Inc in Rockton, IL! This place is incredible for finding unique, handmade treasures that are perfect for any celebration. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, or even a little something for yourself, you’ll find thoughtfully crafted gifts that add joy and significance to every occasion.Plus, they have some amazing Christmas-themed items rolling out soon, so definitely keep an eye out for those! Supporting local artisans while snagging budget-friendly, exclusive gifts? It’s a win-win! If you’re in the area, make sure to swing by and experience this charming gift shop with personality. Happy holiday shopping, everyone! 🎁✨

Heres a few of our amazing crew. So grateful to work next to so many talented individuals. We are truly blessed to have all of you in our lives. Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication and always going above and beyond for our customers and community. Our team placed top three in nine categories, we won seven for What Rocks Rockford. We want to thank all of our amazing clients for your continued support and votes.Categories that we won are Best Spa, Best Facials, Best Customer Service, Best Hair, Top Employers 1-100, Best Place To Work, Best Boss.Top three categories are Best Tattoo Studio and Overall Leardership.#teamskindeepstudiobodyartandbeauty #dreamteam #dreamsdocometrue #WhatRocksRockford #bodyart #beautysalon #tattoostudio #lookgoodfeelgoodwithus

Skin Deep Studio- Body Art & Beauty has announced that they are once again serving as a drop-off location for Toys for Tots. This marks their fourth consecutive year of participating in the initiative. The collection started already and will continue through December 23rd. The studio is encouraging the community to spread holiday cheer by donating new toys to bring joy to local children. They expressed gratitude for any contributions and mentioned that even those unable to donate can support the cause by liking and sharing the news. The studio extends warm holiday wishes to all. 🎄🎁

Hey, have you heard the news about Skin Deep Studio? They're on a roll! For the second year in a row, they've absolutely smashed it by winning five categories in the Best In The Stateline awards. It's incredible! This year, they had a record-breaking run, snagging titles for Best Spa/Salon, Best Permanent Makeup, Best Small Business, Best Family Owned Business, Best Customer Service, and even Favorite Tattoo Parlor. Can you believe it? Their team is obviously over the moon and super grateful to everyone who voted for them. They're really showing some love to their supporters, calling them the MVPs. Plus, they're giving a shout-out to all the businesses that were in the contest. It's so cool to see a local business thriving like this! 🏆❤️

Warm up your winter with our delightful seasonal Coco Bombs! Just add them to a steaming cup of milk and watch as they transform into the most indulgent hot chocolate experience. Come savor this cozy treat at Sugar Britches today!

Wands!! (or hair sticks) Elegant creations out of polymer clay and high-quality crystal stones! Available at Nine Bells and Cat Tails!