Positive News, Stories, & Stateline Buzz Polls

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

Wow, what a great first day of the market! The weather is great, the vendors are amazing and the customers showed up in full force ready for the season! Thanks for making it a great day.

Get ready for a Brew-tiful May at our Coffee Shop! We're turning 4, and we're Brewing up some Serious FUN! Join us ALL month long for a Celebration packed with NEW drinks, Giveaways, and Surprises galore! Whether you're an AuLait Lover, a Cold Brew Enthusiast, or just looking for a Good Time, our Anniversary Extravaganza has something for Everyone! Stay tuned for more details, and let's raise our cups to 4 Fantastic Years Together!

4 YEARS IN BUSINESS CELEBRATION MONTH FOR US! We want to give a Shoutout to Our Amazing Customers at DeeDee's Main Street Coffee! We just want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you who walk through our doors, grab a cup of coffee, and share the DeeDee's experience with your friends and family. Whether you're here for your morning pick-me-up, catching up with friends over an Aulait, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite brew, or grabbing a to go for the road your presence fills our cozy shop with warmth and joy.Thank you for your unwavering Support, for sharing our posts, and for spreading the love for DeeDee's Main Street Coffee. YOU are the Heart and Soul of our community, and we're so Grateful to have you as part of our coffee-loving family. Here's to many more shared moments, delicious drinks, and cherished memories together!Let's have some Fun...Comment below your Favorite thing about our Shop and share for a Chance to WIN a $10.00Gift card! Cheers,DeeDee's and Our Main Street Coffee Team

Light and flowy a summer must-have sizes small and tons of colors to choose from https://alwaysforeverbeloit.com/products/ruffled-sleeveless-tiered-maxi-dress-with-pockets?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1E9RnXI2o_khPyx98x9MvgM9xbk3NpTDeOjPNoPnq1kKsXyq9GGbec4bc_aem_Ae7OSpR8mGAiGCsqwfOo87ecyzCOUUCrSeO0frxdZsweo2Wcy2h-rT27IwoZWKhQ0Ky2IWFP5oejwE8Y0xBHKoMq

DEVIATE Beloit applications close in 5 weeks! Tag an artist you’d like to see apply. Whether you're a painter, sculptor, musician, or any other kind of artist, we want YOU to show us your stuff. Apply now for DEVIATE 2024. www.deviatebeloit.com/artist

Cinco De Mayo is here, and there's no better way to celebrate than by indulging in some delicious tacos while exploring the vibrant city of Beloit! But before we dive into the taco goodness, let's take a moment to understand the significance of this festive day.Cinco De Mayo, which translates to the fifth of May, commemorates the Mexican army's victory over the French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It has since evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, not only in Mexico but also in the United States and other parts of the world.In Beloit, the celebration goes beyond just a day of festivities. Visit Beloit, the city's tourism organization, has created an exciting activity called the Beloit & Beyond trails, which offer a unique way to experience the city's bars, restaurants, cafes, and outdoor public art. And what better trail to explore during Cinco De Mayo than the Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail!The Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail showcases the rich Hispanic influence in the Stateline area through its many family-owned establishments serving up authentic Mexican flavors. To embark on this culinary adventure, all you need to do is sign up for a free Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail passport. Then, simply follow the instructions, visit the participating taco spots, and make any food purchase to get started.As you make your way through the trail, be sure to check in at each location. On your third and seventh stops, you'll be rewarded with exclusive Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail prizes, adding an extra element of fun to your taco-filled journey.But the fun doesn't stop there! If you manage to complete all 19 stops on the Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail by December 31, 2024, you'll be entered to win a fantastic Beloit Prize Package valued at $625! The package includes a two-night stay at Ironworks Hotel, a Beloit cooler filled with beer and wine, a Beloit cribbage board and deck of cards, a Wisconsin map bottle cap display, and gift cards to various Geronimo Hospitality restaurants.So, this Cinco De Mayo, why not spice up your celebration by exploring the Beloit & Beyond Taco Trail? Indulge in mouth-watering tacos, experience the vibrant culture of Beloit, and maybe even win some fantastic prizes along the way. It's the perfect way to celebrate Cinco De Mayo and discover all that Beloit has to offer! ¡Vamos a comer! (Let's eat!)Sign up: https://visitbeloit.com/passport-trails/taco-trail/

As Mother's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the incredible woman who has shaped my life in countless ways. My mom, like many in the Beloit/Stateline area, is a true gem. She's not just a mom; she's a gardener, a chef, a fitness enthusiast, a sun seeker, and above all, a devoted family member.Every year, I strive to find the perfect Mother's Day gift that reflects her many passions and interests. This year, I'm turning to the local community for help. I know there are so many wonderful businesses in our area that offer unique and thoughtful gifts for moms like mine.If you're like me and looking for that special something to make Mother's Day unforgettable, I invite you to share your favorite local spots in the comments below. Whether it's a hidden gem of a garden center, a cooking class that's as fun as it is informative, a fitness studio with the best gear, a salon for the ultimate pampering session, or just a great spot for family outings, I want to hear about it!Let's come together as a community to celebrate our moms and support our local businesses. Together, we can make this Mother's Day one to remember. Thank you, Stateline, for your help and your love for our moms!

Thank you Phantoms Motor Club for spending your morning with us! Safe travels back to Minnesota, we can’t wait to see you next time! We are so happy to hear the amazing comments and see so many happy faces! Historic Attractions is the perfect spot to feature as a mystery stop on your next tour! There is something for everyone and so much more than cars! At the museum you will see thousands of artifacts that you will only see in Roscoe Illinois!

Wisconsin Main Street success stories celebrated at 33rd annual awards event at Green Bay awards ceremony, WEDC salutes top 2023 revitalization projectsGREEN BAY, WI. April 19, 2024 – The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) celebrated the best downtown revitalization projects of 2023 at the 33rd Wisconsin Main Street Awards ceremony held at Gather on Broadway in Green Bay. “As Main Street goes, so goes Wisconsin’s economy, its well-being, our way of life in the Badger State,” said Missy Hughes, WEDC Secretary and CEO. “And these awards prove once again Wisconsin communities are thriving. Congratulations to the winners. We salute and celebrate you, our partners in creating an economy and improving the quality of life for the betterment and benefit of all.”On behalf of Secretary Hughes, Sam Rikkers, WEDC Deputy Secretary and Chief Operating Officer, recognized the winners at the awards ceremony.“With many of these Main Street projects, we are preserving history and making history, leading by example in maintaining what sets Wisconsin apart,” Rikkers said. “While these projects in the heart of your communities are vital to local commerce and cultural activities today, they are part of our Badger State legacy we must preserve for future generations to enjoy.” Other WEDC leaders also joined in the celebration of successful projects and initiatives executed by Main Street and Connect Communities programs around the state. Recognized projects included business and community development initiatives, building renovations, community celebrations, and revitalization success stories from across Wisconsin.“Showcasing the variety of success stories from communities large and small is always inspirational,” said Mike Ward, WEDC vice president of business and community development. “The Main Street Awards ceremony celebrates the hard work, vision and dedication of those who are working tirelessly behind the scenes each day to preserve and promote their downtowns.” Wisconsin Main Street is a community development program administered by WEDC that targets Wisconsin’s historic commercial districts. WEDC provides technical support and training to the 34 Main Street communities to help them revitalize their business districts based on guidelines developed by the National Main Street Center.Since the program’s inception in 1987, Wisconsin Main Street community efforts have resulted in the creation of more than 3,300 new businesses and nearly 17,000 net new jobs, and over $2.6 billion in public and private investment has occurred in these districts. During fiscal year 2023 alone, Wisconsin Main Street communities added 112 new businesses and 287 net new jobs. None of this activity would be possible without the nearly 30,000 volunteer hours that were dedicated to the Main Street effort by passionate individuals from each community.Also represented at today's event were members of WEDC’s Connect Communities Program, a companion program to Wisconsin Main Street created in 2013 to provide access to resources and training to help communities pursue revitalization and redevelopment efforts. Over the past decade, 138 participating communities have added more than 870 net new businesses and attracted nearly $4.6 billion in public and private investment. Executive Director Years of Service AwardsShauna El-Amin – Beloit (12 years)Community ChampionsTim Taylor – Beloit

Our outdoor Farmers' Market starts on May 4th!It's Always Fun in Downtown Beloit!https://conta.cc/4aQlrf4

What are you in the mood for today? A Delicious Specialty Coffee or a Refreshing Twisty Tea? Lots of Yumminess to choose from. #deedees #goodvibes #coffees

Coffee Camper Season is Here!! Can you believe We got her (Miss Hazel) out of storage yesterday to get her all ready and geared up for her second season to serve all of you Fantabulous folks?! We are all in Our feels and the butterflies have started along with the nervous/excited goosebumps we get, but we are thinking this year is going to be one of the BEST yet! We have some New Drinks, New Ideas, and Events Brewing for this Season! Do you want her at an Event? Please Comment below with any Ideas that YOU may have for Miss Hazel this 2024 season! Share away! Warm Wishes- DeeDee & Crew

Post from Miss Beloit's Teen:Freaking out!today I was scrolling through Snapchat and saw Lizzie’s (Miss Beloit ) and my faces on the billboard. I immediately grabbed my things, bolted to the door, and made my grandma drive me to see it in person!Thank you to our amazing sponsors who made this possible: Always & Forever Formal Wear and Elite Ladies Of Beloit

The 2024 Rockton River Market is gearing up to be a delightful event, offering a vibrant mix of live entertainment and tantalizing food options. Set against the scenic backdrop of Settlers Park, this market is not just about shopping—it's an experience that invites you to linger, enjoy the music, and savor the flavors.Live Entertainment Schedule:**May 22, 6 PM: Lyndsay MarieMay 29: Harpo's RevueJune 5: MinimalJune 19:Nauti-NautiJune 26: That GurlJuly 3: Lola Blu-July 10: Bill and Jim's AttorlentacousticJuly 17: Dirty Fishnet StockingsJuly 24: Vintage VinylJuly 31: Jon Bon StamosAugust 7: Cover StoryAugust 14: Shuffle ThisAugust 21: Hanks NeighborsAugust 28: DistilledSeptember 4: Rockton Police Association's Blues & BBQFood Vendors:- After the Vine: Wine-to-go, tastings, and retailRustic Oven Wood-Fired Pizza: Wood-fired pizza and slushiesDisco Chicken: Chicken sandwiches, tenders, and totsCurious Herbivore: Vegan bakery delightsThai Jasmine Rice & Noodles: Authentic Thai cuisineCafe on Wheels: Smash burgers, hand-cut fries, brisket grilled cheese, and moreDairyhaus: Ice cream treatsDeedee's Main St. Coffee: Coffee, tea, and frozen lemonadesRockton Inn: Pulled pork, burgers, hot dogs, and bratsJammin Jerk Grill: Jerk Bowls, Taste of Jamaica, and Jerk Chicken Philly- Prairie Street Brewing Co.: Regional craft beerThe Mix: Non-alcoholic beverages and candyThe Licorice Guy: Gourmet licoriceThe Olive Branch: Greek gyros, chicken, pork kabobs, and rice bowlsBOP BOP Korean BBQ: Korean rice bowls, Korean corn dogs, and fruity iced drinks with bobaRookie's Pub & Grill: Italian sausage, Polish sausage, walking tacos, and ready-to-drink alcoholic beveragesFibs: Domestic beer and pizzaSimply Sweet: Bread, cookies, and assorted baked goodsAl's Main Street Tap: Mixed drinksFrybabies: Fried food and grilled chicken itemsCantina Taco: Tacos, chips, queso, and salsaWith such a diverse array of food vendors and an exciting lineup of live music, the Rockton River Market is sure to be a highlight of the summer. Whether you're a local looking for some midweek fun or a visitor seeking a taste of the Rockton experience, this market promises to deliver an unforgettable evening. Mark your calendars, and don't miss out on this fantastic event!

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Rita, the driving force behind Rock County Restoration, a remarkable organization dedicated to helping individuals on their journey to recovery from substance abuse. Rock County Restoration is a 501(c)(3) serving Rock County, WI, and the Stateline area. Their current focus is on offering nonresidential recovery services, including Restore recovery support groups on Tuesdays from 7pm to 8pm. However, their vision extends far beyond this.Their ultimate goal is to open a long-term residential recovery center, providing a safe and nurturing environment for women to achieve long-term recovery from drug and alcohol abuse. What sets Rock County Restoration apart is their commitment to restoring lives through the love of Jesus Christ, making their approach not just about recovery, but about holistic healing.The planned facility will cater to women 18 years and older, offering individualized, supportive, and compassionate care. Importantly, Rock County Restoration does not discriminate based on religious or spiritual views, ensuring that all women seeking help are welcomed and supported.At the core of Rock County Restoration is the belief that everyone has the right and ability to live a life free from addiction. Their approach focuses on treating each client's underlying core problems, addressing emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical aspects of addiction to provide the tools needed for sustained recovery.Their mission extends beyond recovery to transforming lives in areas such as financial accountability, stress and anger management, and community interaction, all approached from a Christ-centered perspective.Rock County Restoration provides a safe, compassionate, confidential, and non-judgmental environment conducive to emotional and spiritual healing. They believe that by bringing glory to God, they can bring about real and lasting change in the lives of those struggling with addiction.In conclusion, Rock County Restoration is not just a recovery center; it's a beacon of hope, offering a path to recovery and transformation through the power of faith and love.

Hold onto your popcorn, folks! We are teaming up with Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) to deliver an experience that's bigger and bolder than ever before! From mouthwatering cocktail flights to epic burger deals and live music that'll have you groovin' in your seat, it all kicks off this Thursday.View the BEYOND BIFF lineup below.

DEVIATE Beloit is now accepting applications for visual artists and musicians interested in taking part in the 3rd annual art and entertainment experience in downtown Beloit. Read more and apply at the link!Link: https://www.geronimohospitalitygroup.com/post/deviate-now-accepting-artist-applications-for-3rd-annual-art-entertainment-experience?fbclid=IwAR2pl3o5m5MMq16vL3uHdFjmQg57OL5P48ZoCNPtQcKd09l3_scGQQr-qwA

What Does SEO Stand For and Why Is It Important? https://freshhorizonsgroup.com/.../what-does-seo-stand... Via Fresh Horizons Group's Blog

Congratulations to ABC Supply Stadium, Amazon, Community Action, Fresh Horizons Group, Inc., ICONIQ, Kettle Foods, Pinnon Meats, Rojas Boxing Gym, Stateline Boys & Girls Club, Walmart, Woodman’s Food Market, and Stateline Family YMCA for their Community Collaboration Awards. We were proud to recognize these organizations during our awards ceremony last week.All these organization donated services, resource or facilities or fostered opportunities for our officers to positively engage with our city’s youth. The City of Beloit Police Department is immensely grateful for their commitment to strengthening Beloit.