Positive News, Stories, & Stateline Buzz Polls

Q: In what ways has martial arts empowered kids beyond the mats?Discover the incredible off-the-mat benefits – from boosted confidence to improved focus! Enroll your child today and let the positive impact of martial arts shine in every aspect of their life! #KidsMartialArts #EmpowerBeyondMats #StartTheJourney

May was a BUSY month at ABC Supply Stadium and a TON of fans went home happy as the winner of Geronimo Hospitality Group Restuarant Roulette! Each winner received a gift card to one of Geronimo's restaurants right here in Beloit!Bessie's Diner Blue Collar Coffee Co. Lucy's #7 Burger Bar Truk't Velvet Buffalo Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint

Beloit Farmers' MarketSaturdays, 8 am - 1 pmRain or ShineShop in a wonderful open-air market in the heart of historic Downtown Beloit. An award-winning community tradition spanning almost 50 years, with vendors selling local produce, organics, baked goods, honey, jams & jellies, herbs, bedding plants, meat, eggs & cheese, fresh flowers, artisan crafts, scents & skin care. “Meet me at State & Grand!”Our market gladly accepts SNAP and WIC! The market will be held rain or shine. No pets allowed.SSM Health is continuing their partnership with the Beloit farmers' market to support their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) program. This partnership will provide an additional $15 to SNAP users a month, on top of their pre-existing benefits. People can then exchange this for market tokens to pay vendors with for EBT-approved food products.Questions while you are at the market? Stop at our Information Booth, located at the intersection of State and GrandFor more informationFridays in the ParkFridays, 11:30 am - 1:30 pmFirst National Bank & Trust Co. PlazaLunch! It's one of the top things to do in Beloit, WI...in our humble opinion!Come lunch with us! Tasty selections served by downtown eateries. Lunch and a refreshing drink for only $10! This week we feature Coco's Tamales who will be serving one tamale (choice of chicken mild, pork spicy or beans & cheese) served with rice and beans with music by Eclectic Red!For more informationDowntown Beloit Coupon BookMaking shopping experiences even better with money saving coupons and a scavenger hunt! These books are available to purchase for $10 at the following businesses (see below) and good thru 2024.Coupon books can be purchased at:Downtown Beloit Association, 557 E. Grand Ave.Nest Egg, 816 E. Grand Ave.Pizzazz Gift & Apparel Boutique, 313 State St.Stateline Mental Health Services, 540 E. Grand Ave.Tin Dog Records, 312 State St., Suite B.Walnut Creek Apparel & Gifts, 408 E. Grand Ave.Walnut Creek Awards & Promotions, 400 E. Grand Ave.Downtown Beloit Gift CardsLooking for a special gift, but don't know what to buy? Give one of our Downtown Beloit Gift Cards good at all of our downtown businesses.Stop by our office, 557 E. Grand Avenue to pick one up today, fee free now through the end of June.Live Music!5BARFriday, June 14 8 pmThat One BandFriday, June 14, 10 pmDJCheeHead BrewingTuesday, June 18 5 pmTin Dog Records Vinyl JamsGrand Avenue PubWednesdays, 6:30 pmLine Dancing with JenFriday, June 14, 8 pmMr. PinkSaturday, June 15, 9 pmDJ TrooperMondays, 7 pmBlues MondaysMerrill & Houston's Steak JointFridays, 7:30 pmLive Music Fridays!truk'tThursdays, 6 pmTacos, Tequila & TunesBeloit Art CenterJune ExhibitsSVEUM GALLERY | MIDWEST DARKNESS Featured artists: JR Broshous, Adem Redzepi, Casey Ball, Ian Currey, Matt Lombard, Matthew Wajek, Paul Lesch, Riley Hill, W. Hagskins, Stonevein Studio, and Rotted Dystopia Dark Art is an umbrella term used to describe a large catalog of material, including, but not limited to, the dark side of the creative process: skulls, demons, and otherworldly creatures. It also features biomechanical, bioorganic, portraits, and impossibly alien-type landscapes, to name a few. As far as the medium of work represented by the eleven artists in this exhibit, it is a mixed bag from traditional mediums like paint and photography to organic materials. BELL GALLERY | PAUL KOPP Paul holds an MFA in poetry from Vermont College of Fine Arts. His work was selected for the 2022 Beloit and Vicinity Show at the Wright Museum of Art at Beloit College, has been included in group shows at Side Street Arts and Beloit Art Center, and is represented in private collections throughout the United States. He lives in WI with his wife and two rescue dogs.Beloit Art Center Gallery & Gift Shop Hours:Monday | 10 am - 2 pmTuesday - Friday | 10 am - 5 pmSaturday | 10 am - 2 pmThe galleries are free and open to the public. www.beloitartcenter.comProject WisHopeClothing Drive donations accepted at the following locations:Project WisHope424 College StMonday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday2-5 pmDowntown Beloit Association557 E. Grand AvenueTuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 9-5 pmBeloit Farmers' Market Information BoothSaturdays, 8 am - 1 pmWright Museum of Art Beloit College700 College StreetThe Wright Museum of Art is proud to showcase the 66th Annual Beloit & Vicinity Exhibition, one of the oldest continuous juried art competitions in the state of Wisconsin. Special thanks to this year’s jurors, Colin Matthes, Director of the UW-Parkside Gallery and Roberto Torres Mata, multidisciplinary artist, who have selected a diverse range of mediums and subjects to create interesting exhibition.Also on view, the winner of the 65th Annual Beloit & Vicinity’s solo show. Step into Leah Mitchell's whimsical world of confections and confessions, where doughnuts become haute couture and laughter mixes with introspection. Mitchell's vibrant paintings playfully explore the fine line between being a consumer and being consumed. Beneath the sugary surface of doughnut couture lies a thoughtful exploration of societal expectations of femininity and the empty allure of consumer culture. Join us for a delightful journey where pink frosting meets profound reflection, challenging us to rethink the sweet promises of modernity.Visitors can see the exhibits through July 20. Museum hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. — 4 p.m. The Wright Museum of Art is located on the corner of Bushnell and Prospect Street on the south side of the Beloit College campus. The museum is free and open to the public. For more information, visit the Wright Museum of Art’s Facebook page.For more informationDowntown Beloit Scavenger HuntEnjoy this fun interactive game you can play with your family, group, or just yourself to build your knowledge of Downtown Beloit. Click here for the question sheet. Want to see how you did? Contact us for the answer sheet or to have us review your answers to get you a score. Email [email protected]. Available PropertyLooking to locate your business or live in Beautiful Downtown Beloit?There are some available apartments, storefronts and office spaces available. Contact us for more information at 365-0150 or email. Click here to view available properties.

This week's Barista in the Spotlight is Payton! Payton is a Senior at Hononegah High School and she is on the Varsity Cheer Team. She loves to travel when she isn’t working. Payton is always putting Smiles on everyone’s face in the shop! One of her favorite drinks is a White Chocolate SF Vanilla Cold Brew with half and half! YUM!

OLD SETTLERS WEEKEND is here! Swing into DeeDee's for a Dee-licious drink! So many things to choose from such as an AMAZING DeeDee's Brew, Specialty Coffees, and Smooth medium-bodied Cold Brew. Maybe want a REFRESHING Non Coffee? We have Yummy Smoothies, Mouth watering Frozen Hot Chocolates, Flavored and Regular Lemonades, Chai Tea Lattes, Our New Chargers to Get cha going, Teas and Flavored Teas, and more! See ya before during or after the WONDERFUL Music Food and Carnival Fun!

Old Settlers Days, affectionately known as OSD, is back and promises to be bigger and better than ever! This beloved annual event, organized by the dedicated Rockton Lions Club and enthusiastic community volunteers, is a highlight of the summer, bringing together families, friends, and visitors for four days of entertainment, food, and fun. Whether you're a local or just visiting, OSD offers something for everyone.Highlights of This Year's OSDThe Cadillac of CarnivalsReturning this year is the renowned Skinners Amusements, often dubbed the "Cadillac of Carnivals." This family-owned and operated carnival, originating from Crystal Lake, Illinois in 1910, brings a rich history of fun and safety to the event. Their rides are fully insured, state-inspected, and undergo regular maintenance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.Thursday, June 13, 20244:00 PM: Gates Open1:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Rock River Valley Blood Drive – Rockton American Center. Donate blood and receive a 4-day general admission festival pass. Donate a pair of eyeglasses for an additional pass.5:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Midway by Skinners Amusements with a $30 wristband special from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM4:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets, and Food Booths4:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Apex Beer Tent5:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Sponsor’s VIP Tent with entertainment, no additional ticket required5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Lola Blu Band7:45 PM: Taylor Austin Dye followed by Chase Matthew on the Main Stage (additional concert ticket required)Friday, June 14, 20244:00 PM: Gates Open6:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Midway by Skinners Amusements4:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets, and Food Booths4:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Apex Beer Tent5:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Sponsor’s VIP Tent with entertainment, no additional ticket required5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Blind Date8:00 PM: Preston James followed by Nate Smith on the Main Stage (additional concert ticket required)Saturday, June 15, 202412:30 PM: Gates Open1:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Midway by Skinners Amusements with a $30 wristband special from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM1:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets, and Food Booths1:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Apex Beer Tent5:00 PM - 11:00 PM: Sponsor’s VIP Tent with entertainment, no additional ticket required3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Dirt Road Rebels6:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Rollin’ Whiskey8:15 PM: Austin Williams followed by Warren Zeiders on the Main Stage (additional concert ticket required)Sunday, June 16, 20241:30 PM: Gates Open2:00 PM - 9:30 PM: Midway by Skinners Amusements with $1 tickets and reduced prices per ride2:00 PM - 9:30 PM: Festival Vendors, Information Booth, 50/50 Raffle Tickets, and Food Booths2:00 PM - 9:30 PM: Apex Beer Tent4:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Sponsor’s VIP Tent with entertainment, no additional ticket required2:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Carson Hall4:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Hanks NeighborsThis year, OSD is shining a spotlight on local artists. Attendees can explore a variety of art displays and interact with the artists themselves. From paintings and sculptures to handmade crafts and jewelry, there's an abundance of creativity to admire and purchase. It's a fantastic opportunity to support local talent and maybe even take home a unique piece of art.Old Settlers Days is more than just an event; it's a celebration of community spirit and the rich history of Rockton. With a fantastic lineup of entertainment, exciting carnival rides, and a vibrant atmosphere, OSD 2024 is set to create unforgettable memories. Be sure to mark your calendars and join the fun!Stay tuned for a special video coverage of the event, capturing all the highlights and excitement. See you at OSD!OSD Website: https://oldsettlersdays.com/

We have so many amazing pizza restaurants in our area, and I want to make sure we include all your favorites in our upcoming poll. This is your chance to vote for the best pizza spots in the Stateline, which we consider to be Roscoe, Rockton, South Beloit, and Beloit.Here are the nominees:Pietro's Pizzeria (Roscoe)Tony & Maria’s (Beloit)Sam’s (Rockton)Tiley’s (Beloit)Juanito’s (Beloit)Bravo's (South Beloit)Vince’s (Beloit)Anna Maria’s (Beloit)Prime Time (Beloit)G5 Brewing Company (Beloit)Mark's (Rockton)Honorable mentions from nearby areas:Vinny's Pizza And PastaFrankie’s PizzeriaSalamone's Cherry ValleyManny’s PizzaMacianosOpsahl’s PizzaPino’s on MainBricks & StonesCiminosChubby BubbasLet's find out who really has the best pizza around! 🍕 You've got one week to cast your vote before we announce the winner. Ready, set....PIZZA! 🍕

Bridal shower celebration!! Congratulations Tasha! These pics do no justice for this beautiful wall!! Venue: Mocha MomentPhotographer: Tiffany Ann PhotographyFlowerwall: Wisco Blooms

Q: Do I need experience? A: Not at all! Our mats are the perfect canvas for all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or taking your first steps, we've got the perfect class for you. Dive into the world of martial arts or BJJ and discover the thrill of starting something new! Ready to kick-start your journey? Let's hit the mats together!

One of my favorite pictures from this weekend! Not because of the cool lighting, definitely not because of the reminder of the bruise on my thigh . This is one of my favorites because it has a lot of history in it.I have been learning Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiujitsu for the last 24 years under Jeff Curran. I was just a kid, 14 years old, when I walked into his academy.. by age 16 I was helping out with kids classes, mopping mats, and anything that was needed. Fought my first MMA fight with Jeff in my corner, prepped alongside some of the top fighters in the nation during that time… and fell in love with martial arts and this life at Team Curran Academy. It’s always great to Have Professor Curran out to invest into our students here, because people see where our heart beat and passion for this sport comes from. Where we learned self defense and the importance of it came from. I say it often.. we all have an Origin Story and I’m proud that mine has this history as a part of it. Learned from the best how to forge paths forward. To become pioneers of our industry, and to have the gift of the mats to to impact and change our world around us. We are on a mission to impact as many people in the Stateline area to become the best versions of themselves. And we are thankful to have the best support in our corners even now! @bigfrogbjj @teamcurranbjj

Hey there, fashionistas! Take a sec to nominate Always & Forever Formal Wear under SHOPPING:1. Boutique2. SpecialtyHit the link to cast your vote and help us rock this award!LINK: https://rrstar.gannettcontests.com/2024-What-Rocks-Communitys-Choice-Awards/gallery?group=487713&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR2WUWVJx1dquLCsei9wfAMYYANG6hRNcSbFLIySGsHvyNwHz6zugaQATvg_aem_AbL_7fR1Vfy5xASHNo3zel2Du-m1lEoJLBmk7UIvnxSkQ_B4-koNwkTqXAyG74xEV7XIpwPTSj8eN_afnW4K39nL

Wonderful set up at Green House No. 7 in Milwaukee! Congratulations to Mr & Mrs. Santolino!!Wisco Blooms came back after the ceremony for the room flip to move the wall behind the couple for their reception. Wisco Blooms designs to you!

I just discovered some fantastic news about a new project coming to downtown Beloit that I couldn’t wait to share. I recently learned that Hendricks Commercial Properties and Geronimo Hospitality Group have officially started construction on an incredible new entertainment venue called Henry Dorrbaker’s. How cool is that?So, I found out that this announcement was made during a special “first roll” ceremony. It’s such a great way to kick off this exciting project, with community stakeholders coming together to celebrate the beginning of what promises to be an amazing addition to Beloit’s entertainment scene.Henry Dorrbaker’s is named after the owner of Beloit’s first bowling alley, which I think is a wonderful nod to our city’s history. The venue will be situated on the Ironworks Campus, an area rich in history and culture. The idea is to blend vintage charm with modern excitement, creating a unique space where people of all ages can have fun.The venue is going to be huge – over 20,000 square feet! It’s set to transform a currently vacant warehouse space where Spine Road meets the Rock River. From what I’ve read, Henry Dorrbaker’s will feature duckpin bowling, vintage arcade games, and a lively bar scene. This combination sounds like it will create a super vibrant atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else in the region.Rob Gerbitz, the President and CEO of Hendricks Commercial Properties and Geronimo Hospitality Group, shared his excitement about the project, saying, “Henry Dorrbaker’s will offer guests an entertainment experience like no other right in the heart of downtown. We can’t wait to let the good times roll and show everyone a great time.” I don’t know about you, but I’m really looking forward to seeing Henry Dorrbaker’s come to life. It sounds like it’s going to be an incredible place to hang out, have fun, and make memories. I’ll definitely keep you all posted as I learn more about this exciting new venue. Stay tuned!

BARISTA SPOTLIGHT SUNDAY!! Something NEW we are starting for turning four years old this Month is Barista Spotlight Sunday! Our first Barista in the Spotlight is Owen! Owen is going to be a Junior at Hononegah High School. He Loves to do photography when he isn’t working. Owen is also a goofy upbeat guy who loves putting smiles on everyone’s face. One of his favorite drinks right now is a Tropical Vibe Celsius with vanilla, orange, and lime syrup topped with vanilla cold foam!Give him a Lil shout-out!

Exciting times are ahead for Roscoe! The village is launching a pair of transformative projects designed to revitalize Main Street and create a bustling commercial corridor that everyone will love.First up, in just a few weeks, Roscoe will be clearing out a house near the southwest corner of Main and Bridge Streets. In its place, a new multi-use parking lot and public space will emerge. This space aims to provide convenient parking and a welcoming area for community events and gatherings. Imagine a spot where you can park easily, meet friends, or enjoy local events—right in the heart of Roscoe!But that's not all. This fall, the southeast corner of Main Street and Hodges Run will come alive with a pop-up retail market, thanks to the talented students from Hononegah Community High School’s construction classes. These students will be building 12-by-12-foot retail huts, creating a vibrant market space where you can shop for unique, locally-made products. It's a fantastic way to support local artisans and discover one-of-a-kind items.These upcoming projects in Roscoe are more than just construction—they're about creating a lively, engaging downtown that encourages people to explore, shop, and connect. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, the revitalized Main Street will offer a more pedestrian-friendly environment and a vibrant community space.So, get ready to experience a new side of Roscoe. With these exciting developments, Main Street is set to become the beating heart of the village, offering new opportunities for commerce, community, and connection. Roscoe is ready to shine, and we can’t wait for you to be part of it!

Want to see something unique and fun? Come and watch Lock and Lean Precision Motorcycle Riding LLC this weekend! Historic Auto Attractions is hosting Lock and Lean Precision Motorcycle Riding LLC this weekend!If you are around the area, come say hi and grab a ticket for the Museum while you’re at it. This weekend will have a wide variety of Lock & Lean Instructors with Heiko leading the way!! So pumped up!!! lets GO!!! Time to help riders learn new skills!

Summer is coming up for our schools and Monroe Middle School is doing it right! Thank you so much for bringing your amazing 8th grade classes into the museum today! Lunch room options are available! Teachers are you looking for something fun to take your kids to? Give us a call at Historic Auto Attractions! There is so much history that can be explored.

Things to Consider When Hiring A Marketing Agency as a Small Business https://freshhorizonsgroup.com/.../things-to-consider... via Fresh Horizons Group's Blog Post

As the warm weather approaches, we're excited to celebrate the beauty of our local parks! From the picturesque Riverside Park in Beloit to the serene trails of Big Hill Park, the Stateline area is home to some amazing outdoor spaces. Which park do you love to visit during the spring and summer months?Cast your vote below and let us know where you love to spend your sunny days! If your favorite park isn't listed, feel free to write it in. Let's celebrate the great outdoors together!

In the quaint town of Rockton, Illinois, a humble beginning marked the start of what would become the illustrious Wagon Wheel Resort. Founded in 1936 by Walt Williamson, the resort started as a modest seven-stool hamburger stand and filling station, with Gladys Burgis among its first employees. Little did they know, this small venture would blossom into one of the Midwest's premier resorts, captivating the hearts of many for decades to come.As the years passed, the Wagon Wheel Resort underwent significant expansions and enhancements. By 1950, the resort boasted 55 rooms and four apartments, spanning five wings and the main lodge area. Its growth was a testament to its popularity, serving as a hub between Belvidere, Freeport, Rockford, and Rockton, especially during World War II when tire and gas rationing made it a vital stop for travelers.One of the most notable additions to the resort was the Red Barn Golf Course, constructed in the 1950s, complemented by a picturesque little lake. The resort's facilities continued to expand, featuring an air strip, laundry facilities, pig pens, and even a sawmill across its sprawling 314 acres.Entertainment was a key focus of the Wagon Wheel experience. The Wagon Wheel Theater, which began with performances in tents, eventually transitioned into a permanent structure in 1955. Its grand opening in 1956 was a spectacle, drawing 412 attendees with ticket prices at $2.25. The theater became a cultural hotspot, hosting various performances and events that attracted guests from far and wide.The resort's culinary offerings were equally impressive. The Candy Kitchen, known for its hand-dipped chocolates and signature peppermint candy stripes, was a sweet haven for guests. Employees crafted seven-pound Easter eggs, which, though pricey at $15 each, were a popular treat. Additionally, the resort's Cock and Bull Lounge became a favorite hangout spot, with 16 years' worth of business cards adorning its ceiling.Celebrities were no strangers to the Wagon Wheel Resort. The likes of Bob Hope, Ronald Reagan, and Jack Nicklaus graced its grounds, leaving behind a legacy of glamour and prestige. The resort's charm and allure were further accentuated by its festive decorations during the holiday seasons, adding a touch of magic to the already enchanting atmosphere.However, like all good things, the heyday of the Wagon Wheel Resort eventually came to an end. In 1989, after years of neglect and declining popularity, the resort closed its doors, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate the hearts of those who remember its grandeur.Today, remnants of the Wagon Wheel Resort stand as reminders of its storied past. The Church by the Side of the Road, the Old Stone School (now a pre-school), and the Red Barn Golf Course serve as echoes of a bygone era, reminding us of the grandeur and splendor that once graced Rockton's landscape. The Wagon Wheel Resort may have closed its doors, but its memory lives on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to experience its magic.

Calling all local small business owners! Struggling with getting more customers without breaking the bank on ads? You’re going to want to save this.I know the struggle all too well. A few years back, I was in your shoes, trying to make my lawn care business the talk of the town without the cash to splash on fancy advertising or complex SEO strategies. It felt like I was trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it—exhausting and futile.Then, I stumbled upon a game-changer: optimizing my Google Business Profile. It sounded too good to be true, but trust me, it’s a powerhouse tool hiding in plain sight.Here’s the scoop: By simply claiming and optimizing my profile, updating my business hours, responding to reviews (yes, all of them!), and posting regular updates about new menu items and events, I saw a real shift. It didn’t happen overnight, but gradually, more locals started walking through the door, mentioning how they found us on Google Maps or saw our positive reviews online. Now, I want to pass this torch to you. Optimizing your Google Business Profile can put you right where you need to be—visible and attractive to potential customers, all without spending a dime on ads.So, what’s stopping you? Have you optimized your Google Business Profile yet? Share your experiences or drop a question below if you’re unsure where to start. Let’s help each other out and make your businesses thrive!

As we celebrate Teacher's Day, I can't help but think back to my high school days and the teacher who truly made a difference in my life: Mr. Bruce Beling, or as we all knew him, Mr. Beling. He wasn't just a teacher; he was a mentor, a friend, and a true inspiration.Mr. Beling was my Auto CAD teacher, but he was so much more than that. He was the heart and soul of our school, always ready to hype up the crowd during pep rallies and host events with his infectious enthusiasm. He had a way of making everyone feel included and valued, whether you were in his class or not.What set Mr. Beling apart was his down-to-earth nature. He was always approachable, always willing to listen, and always ready to offer guidance. He made learning fun and engaging, and he had a knack for explaining complex concepts in a way that was easy to understand.I had the privilege of being in Mr. Beling's class for three years, and during that time, I not only learned a great deal about Auto CAD but also about life. He had a wealth of knowledge and experience, having been a teacher for a couple of decades, and he was always willing to share his wisdom with his students.But what I admired most about Mr. Beling was his kindness and understanding. He genuinely cared about his students and their success, both in and out of the classroom. He took the time to get to know each of us personally, and he always went above and beyond to support us in our endeavors.I am grateful to have had Mr. Beling as a teacher, and I know that his impact will stay with me for the rest of my life. He showed me the importance of passion, dedication, and kindness, and for that, I will always be thankful.Who is your favorite teacher, and what impact did they have on your life? Share your stories in the comments below, and let's celebrate the teachers who make a difference every day.

Turtle Island, the beloved play area in Riverside Park, is getting a fun makeover with exciting new features for kids to explore and enjoy. The recent closure of the play area due to structural issues has paved the way for a fresh new design.During a presentation at the Beloit Public Library, residents got a sneak peek at what's to come. The wooden fort climbing structure, unfortunately, couldn't be salvaged and will be removed. But fear not, as new adventures await!One of the highlights will be two tower structures connected by a bridge, offering kids a thrilling walk across. The main attraction? A hollow tree tower with slides, and a climbing rope vine for added excitement. The bridge will have a bit of bounce to make it fun without compromising safety.The play area will retain some of its beloved features, including the hollow log structure, a clear water stream, and the sand play area. SLU the turtle, a beloved fixture, will also remain in its spot near the entrance.Adding to the fun, a giant ant sculpture will be introduced as a climbing feature. Additionally, there will be a "cozy dome" for kids to climb on top of and crawl under, adding a new dimension to their play experience.The future of Turtle Island looks bright and full of adventure, promising hours of joy and exploration for children in the community.

Thank you to the City of Beloit for recognizing National Small Business Week. We were honored to accept this proclamation at the April 15 City Council Meeting.National Small Business Week is just one week out of the year, but we encourage you to shop local every day, whenever possible. "WHEREAS, more than 32 million small businesses employ almost half of America's workforce and represent the the heart and soul of countless communities; and their enormous contributions to American life and prosperity; andWHEREAS, during Small Business Week, let us renew our commitment to supporting Greater Beloit's small businesses, from local "mom and pop" shops to innovative start-ups."#shoplocal #shopsmall #smallbusinessweek #downtownbeloitwi