Positive News, Stories, & Stateline Buzz Polls

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

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!