Positive News, Stories, & Stateline Buzz Polls

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!

A huge shoutout to Haanpaa Martial Arts for being part of such an amazing tournament for a great cause—the Tap Cancer Out Tournament! It’s inspiring to see their team support athletes and push them to reach new heights.This weekend, their team had an outstanding performance! 💥 2 kids brought home hardware—Bronze and Silver 🥉🥈, and 6 adult competitors, including 3 first-timers, earned 5 Gold Medals 🥇 and 1 Silver Medal 🥈!Watching the team chase their goals on the mats is truly inspiring. Whether it’s the victories or the lessons learned from challenges, Haanpaa Martial Arts continues to foster growth and determination in every athlete. Let’s keep moving forward and building on this momentum! 💪

Beloit just celebrated a milestone event as the Ho-Chunk Nation and the City of Beloit broke ground on the long-awaited Ho-Chunk Casino—a project over 30 years in the making! This massive, state-of-the-art gaming facility will soon bring a wave of entertainment, tourism, and energy to our area.The new development promises 42,000 square feet of gaming excitement alongside a 300-plus-room hotel and a conference center with seating for over 2,000 guests. This impressive facility aims to offer not just a place to play but a complete entertainment experience. Wisconsin State Senator Mark Spreitzer emphasized how this project will showcase Beloit’s charm and drive tourism, saying it will draw in visitors to explore everything our community has to offer.With construction officially underway, Ho-Chunk Nation President Jon Greendeer shared his pride and enthusiasm for the project, which he described as a source of inspiration and community strength. As a top-notch gaming destination, this project marks the start of a vibrant future for Beloit, with the casino expected to open by early 2026 and the hotel and convention center shortly after.Buckle up, Beloit—the Ho-Chunk Casino is officially on its way! Get ready to welcome a whole new wave of excitement, job opportunities, and a bright future for our community.

Hey everyone! I just came across some awesome news for the local dining scene—five of Geronimo’s full-service restaurants just scored big with Open Table’s Diners’ Choice Awards! 🏆 These awards are based on verified guest reviews, so it’s all from real diners sharing what makes each spot special.Now, if you haven’t been to Merrill & Houston’s Steak Joint in Beloit, this might be your sign to go! They won the Most Booked award, making them one of the most popular spots in all of Southern Wisconsin! This place is dripping with history, from the rustic vibe and hardwood floors to the photos of local legends on the walls—it’s like stepping back in time. And of course, the food doesn’t disappoint; they’re known for their top-notch steaks, fresh seafood, and super friendly service.Definitely worth checking out, especially if you’re a fan of a classic steakhouse atmosphere! Want to hear more about my thoughts? Head over to my website for the full scoop!

Hey Stateline! 🎉 I’m super pumped to share something brand new coming to Beloit that I think is going to be such a game-changer. It’s called Henry Dorrbaker’s, and if you’re into retro vibes with a modern twist, you’re in for a treat. They’re officially opening on Monday, November 18, at 4 p.m., right in downtown Beloit at 605 Third Street. Seriously, who else is planning to check this out?!Let me give you a little rundown of what’s in store: We’re talking duckpin bowling, mini golf, racing simulators, and retro arcade games—plus an amazing lineup of craft cocktails and brews! It’s part hangout spot, part gaming paradise, and unique. I’m honestly thrilled to see a place with such a cool mix of activities come to Beloit.Henry Dorrbaker’s is inspired by this amazing story of Henry Dorrbaker himself, a guy who opened Beloit’s first bowling alley back in 1899 and just ran with his passion for bowling, connecting with the community, and making an impact across Wisconsin. So, this spot isn’t just about fun and games; it’s like stepping into a slice of history while enjoying some modern fun.I’ll be doing a full video recap soon to show you all the highlights of the grand opening, so stay tuned! In the meantime, drop a comment if you’re planning to go—or if you have a friend who needs to know about this. This is going to be an awesome addition to Beloit, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.Website: https://www.henrydorrbakers.com/

𝗦𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗣𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄? With the holiday season approaching, now’s the perfect time to level your comfort! Whether you're gifting or upgrading your sleep setup, 𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗽𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 can make all the difference.From soft to firm, cooling to memory foam, we've got insights on all pillows to help you rest easy. Dive into our latest guide on pillow types, where we’ll help you match the perfect pillow to your sleep style and support needs.It’s like having a sleep expert by your side! 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲: 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝗯𝗶𝘁.𝗹𝘆/𝟰𝗲𝗼𝘀𝗴𝗽𝗿#bettersleeptips#pillows#giftofcomfort#holidayshopping#TheBeloitMattressCo

At The Beloit Mattress Company, you don’t need to be hypnotized to get the best value – our factory-direct prices and quality are the real deal - every day!#familybusiness#localstore#factorydirect#mattressstore#thebeloitmattressco