Rock County Historical Society to Host "Airing of the Quilts" Show

Exciting changes are underway for the Boys & Girls Club of Janesville as construction on its long-awaited new facility officially begins. With the first stages of building already in progress, the Club is looking ahead to a grand opening in September 2026—a milestone that will mark a major leap forward for local youth programming.The groundbreaking ceremony, held recently at 925 South Jackson Street, drew an enthusiastic crowd of about 200 community members, donors, and leaders. The celebration was highlighted by remarks from Wisconsin Department of Administration Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld, Club CEO Rebecca Veium, Board President, and even a current Club member—each sharing how this project represents far more than a new building. This isn’t just about bricks and beams—it’s about building opportunity, hope, and a brighter future for young people in Rock County.Once complete, the new facility will triple the number of youth ages 6–18 that the Club can serve each year. That means expanded access to academic support, enrichment programs, mentorship, and safe spaces for kids and teens who need it most.The project is ambitious, and fundraising efforts are still underway. As of now, $10.2 million has been raised toward the Club’s $12 million goal, and the team continues to work tirelessly to close the gap.A recent feature by the Janesville Gazette offers a deeper look into the vision for the space and what it will mean for the community. You can read that full article here.As construction progresses over the next 12 to 14 months, the Club will be sharing regular updates and continuing to invite support from the community.For those interested in being a part of this transformative project—whether through donations, volunteerism, or partnership—there’s still time to get involved. This new chapter is being built by many hands, and every contribution helps shape a better future for the youth of Janesville.Pictures by KARYN SAEMANN/KARYN.SAEMANN@APG-SW.COM

Celebrate Father’s Day at the Rock County Historical Society’s 4th Annual Car ShowIf you’re looking for the perfect way to spend Father’s Day this year, look no further than the 4th Annual Father’s Day Car Show hosted by the Rock County Historical Society (RCHS). On Sunday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the historic RCHS campus at 440 N. Jackson Street in Janesville will come alive with chrome, horsepower, and hometown pride.This popular annual event brings together car enthusiasts, families, and history lovers to admire vehicles of all makes and models while celebrating Janesville’s deep automotive roots. The car show is more than just a gathering of classic rides—it’s a tribute to the city’s long-standing connection to General Motors, and a chance for the community to reflect on its industrial legacy.A Historic Lineup You Don’t Want to MissGuests will have access to the acclaimed Rock County Legacies Exhibit: The Heartbeat of Janesville’s GM, which features artifacts, memorabilia, and two stunning vintage vehicles that were built at the Janesville Assembly Plant:A 1967 Chevrolet Caprice Custom Coupe, which holds the distinction of being the 100 millionth vehicle manufactured by GM in the U.S.A 1927 Series AA Chevrolet Capitol, showcasing early 20th-century craftsmanship.In addition to the GM exhibit, this year’s show will also include a fun automotive-themed scavenger hunt, perfect for visitors of all ages looking to explore the grounds in an interactive way.Food, Fun, and Father’s Day No festival is complete without great food. Steve’s Deli Dog House will be serving up delicious eats, and beverages will be available for purchase on-site. It’s a casual, family-friendly setting that’s ideal for spending quality time with the dad—or car lover—in your life.“We want to celebrate the history of General Motors in Janesville,” said Kathe Crowley Conn, RCHS Executive Director. “This car show, which includes the GM Exhibit in our Museum Center, is a fun way for people to do just that.”Want to Show Off Your Car?Car owners interested in participating in the show can still register their vehicle. Advance registration is $10, or $15 on the day of the event. Space fills up fast, so early sign-ups are encouraged. Registration details can be found at rchs.us/car-show.Event Details:When: Sunday, June 15, 2025 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.Where: Rock County Historical Society, 440 N. Jackson St., JanesvilleAdmission: $15 for adults, free for ages 15 and underWhether you’re a lifelong gearhead or just looking for a unique way to celebrate Father’s Day, this event promises something special for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to experience a beloved Janesville tradition, right in the heart of the city.

Kicking off the summer with our June poll - we want to know where your favorite locally owned spot is to grab a frozen treat 🍦Let us know if we missed any!

Children’s Museum of Rock County Gives Green Light to JP Cullen to Begin ConstructionIt’s official: construction is about to begin on one of the most anticipated community projects in Rock County. The Children’s Museum of Rock County (CMRC) announced today that it has given the green light to JP Cullen to begin construction on its future home in downtown Janesville.The CMRC Board of Directors has voted to move forward with the building phase, instructing JP Cullen to begin work shortly after June 23, 2025. This milestone marks a significant leap forward for the museum’s vision, just days after hiring new executive director Kent Anderson and launching a $500,000 Transform Tomorrow matching campaign.Executive Director Kent Anderson“We know this is the news everyone has been waiting for,” said John Westphal, President of the CMRC Board. “Our board recognized we had a fiscal responsibility to our donors and we have been waiting until we felt we had met those obligations before giving Cullen the okay. When the numbers came in last week, we had the confidence that now is the time.”$14.5 Million Vision Becoming RealityWith the most recent bids now finalized, the Board felt confident the timing was right to start the next chapter. If the current matching campaign is successful, the organization expects to reach a remarkable $14.5 million in funds raised—enough to complete construction and purchase interactive, high-quality exhibits for children of all ages.“It is a privilege to be able to step into this role and see this amazing project start to come to life,” added Kent Anderson, CMRC’s new Executive Director. “The Board has put in so much work to get the project where it is today and we are all excited to make this project a reality.”Groundbreaking Coming SoonA formal groundbreaking ceremony is in the works, with an official date expected to be announced in the coming weeks. Community members, partners, and donors will be invited to help kick off construction on a space that promises to transform play, learning, and family time in Rock County.The museum has been a long-term passion project for the board, and the commitment shown by donors, community members, and regional partners has helped push the dream closer to reality.Want to Support the Vision?Donations are still being accepted to support the museum’s capital campaign. To learn more or contribute to the Transform Tomorrow effort, visit: kidsatplayrc.com/campaign

Inside Innovator Summit Brings National Business Leader to Janesville for Intrapreneurship WorkshopA new professional development experience is coming to Janesville this summer, and it’s designed to spark innovation from the inside out. Contour Consulting, in collaboration with Forward Janesville and Cambian Solutions, will host the first-ever Inside Innovator Summit on Tuesday, June 17, at the Janesville Performing Arts Center.The full-day event, running from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., will feature Louis Gump, best-selling author of The Inside Innovator and a seasoned leader with executive experience at companies like CNN, Cox Media, and The Weather Channel. Gump will lead a powerful, hands-on workshop around intrapreneurship—the concept of empowering employees to think and act like entrepreneurs within their current roles.“Hosting Louis Gump, with his extensive leadership experience, represents our belief that Janesville businesses deserve the same caliber of training found in major metropolitan areas,” said Kelsey Paasch, founder of Contour Consulting and Forward Janesville’s 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year.A Local Platform for National-Scale ThinkingThe Inside Innovator Summit aims to energize teams, leaders, and forward-thinking professionals across the region. Participants will gain actionable insights into fostering innovation, building internal leadership, and unlocking new growth—without having to leave Rock County.Joining Gump on stage will be Paasch and Nathan Burkart, a local intrapreneur and business coach, who will bring regional context and practical tools to the conversation.Quint and Rishy Studer, long-time supporters of community innovation, are the event’s presenting sponsors, with Forward Janesville helping extend the opportunity to a wide network of local organizations and business leaders.Don’t Miss This Rare OpportunityTickets are now available through the Contour Consulting website, and space is limited. Bulk ticket packages and sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses looking to send teams or show community support.Whether you’re a business owner, team leader, or employee with bold ideas, this event is a rare chance to learn how to champion innovation from within.Event Details 📍 Janesville Performing Arts Center 📅 Tuesday, June 17, 2025 🕗 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.🎟 Register now at: Inside Innovator Summit – Contour Consulting 📩 For bulk or sponsorship info: events@contourconsulting.com

Propel Forward’s First-Ever STEAM/Career Day Takes Off at Southern Wisconsin Regional AirportApril 29th marked an exciting milestone for STEAM education in southern Wisconsin as Propel Forward hosted its first-ever Pistons and Props: STEAM/Career Day at the Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport. Designed to introduce students to careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math, the inaugural event brought together education, industry, and aviation in a hands-on, interactive setting that inspired the next generation of innovators.Partnering with 18 local and national organizations, Propel Forward welcomed 7th and 8th-grade students from Aldrich Middle School, Fruzen Middle School in Beloit, and St. John Vianney School in Janesville for a day filled with exploration and discovery.A Day of Discovery and EngagementThe event was split into morning and afternoon sessions, with students rotating between two major activity areas. Inside Revv Aviation, students explored a variety of free-choice STEAM stations, while the airport terminal hosted a career speaker series that featured professionals from aviation, healthcare, engineering, public service, and more.Hands-on learning was at the heart of the experience, and students were given the chance to interact directly with pilots, engineers, technicians, and other experts. Exhibits ranged from aviation simulators and mechanical demos to medical flight operations and drone technology.Community Partners Take Center StageThe success of STEAM/Career Day was made possible by a collaborative effort between Propel Forward and a powerhouse lineup of community-minded organizations, including:Corporate Contractors Inc. (CCI) – Title SponsorBlackhawk Technical CollegeCommemorative Air ForceUW Med FlightCivil Air PatrolWomen in Aviation / NASAHelicopter SpecialtiesSuperior Jets...and many more.Each partner offered meaningful experiences designed to ignite curiosity and open students’ eyes to real-world career paths.More Than an Event — A Movement in MotionThe April 29 STEAM/Career Day built on the momentum of Propel Forward’s past outreach efforts, including the 2024 Pistons and Props Family Day, which drew over 500 young learners. With plans already underway for this year’s Family Day on July 19, organizers are committed to continuing the mission of educational engagement, aviation appreciation, and community empowerment.“This was a launchpad for so many students,” said a Propel Forward spokesperson. “We’re proud to create a space where learning comes to life and where kids can see themselves in careers they may have never imagined.”For more about Propel Forward’s upcoming events and educational programs, visit propelforwardwi.org.

Janesville’s most cherished summer art tradition is back—and it’s calling on artists near and far to be a part of it. The 67th Annual Tallman Arts Festival returns August 2–3, 2025, and artist registration is officially open!Hosted on the beautiful grounds of the Rock County Historical Society (RCHS) and the historic Lincoln-Tallman House at 440 N. Jackson Street, this juried arts festival invites artists of all mediums to apply and share their work with an audience of over 1,000 attendees.https://rchs.us/tallman-arts-festival/A Celebration of Creativity in Every FormWhether you're a ceramicist, photographer, jewelry maker, painter, or mixed media artist, this is your chance to showcase your work in a vibrant, community-driven setting. With decades of history and a dedicated following, the Tallman Arts Festival offers artists exposure, connections, and the opportunity to sell directly to art lovers.Dates & Hours:Saturday, August 2: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.Sunday, August 3: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.Location:Rock County Historical Society Campus, 440 N. Jackson Street, JanesvilleAdmission:Free for attendees (donations welcome!)More Than Just ArtThe weekend isn't just about beautiful creations—it’s a full community experience! Visitors can enjoy:Food trucks serving local flavorsChildren’s activities to inspire young artistsA beverage area for relaxing in the summer sunNonprofit exhibitors sharing resources and causesAll proceeds from the event help fund preservation efforts and support the ongoing operations of RCHS’s historic campus.Artists: Apply Today!Spots are limited, and the event’s long-standing reputation means they fill up quickly. Interested artists can view the application details and submit their work for consideration at: rchs.us/taf-artist-applicationDon’t miss your opportunity to be a part of one of Janesville’s signature summer events. Whether you’re exhibiting or attending, the Tallman Arts Festival is a weekend full of color, creativity, and community spirit.

What's your favorite locally owned spot to listen to live music?? Vote for your favorite and let us know if we missed any venues!

Summer Vibes Return: Music at the Marv Announces 2025 Concert LineupOne of Janesville’s most beloved summer traditions is back for another season of fun, music, and community spirit! Downtown Janesville, Inc. and the City of Janesville have officially announced the 2025 lineup for Music at the Marv, proudly presented by Mercyhealth.Starting Tuesday, June 3, locals and visitors alike can look forward to free weekly concerts every Tuesday evening at 6:30 p.m. at Lower Courthouse Park. Whether you’re into classic rock, reggae, funk, or 90s hits, this summer’s lineup has something for everyone.2025 Music at the Marv Lineup:June 3 – The BriTins (Beatles Tribute)June 10 – That Gurl (Top 40, rock, soul, and more)June 17 – Too Deep (R&B, soul, and funk)June 24 – Tony Rocker & The Comeback Special Band (Elvis Tribute)July 1 – Gin, Chocolate & Bottle Rockets (High-energy rock/pop trio)July 8 – Nauti Nauti (Party rock)July 15 – End Fight Scene (Indie rock)July 22 – Orquesta SalSoul Del Mad (Latin salsa/soul fusion)July 29 – That 90’s Band (90s nostalgia hits)August 5 – VanDwellers (Blues and Americana)August 12 – Banana Wind (Jimmy Buffett tribute and island vibes)August 19 – TUGG (Reggae and alternative)August 26 – The Mercynaries (Rock and roll cover band)Concert nights will also feature a lively pedestrian zone, as Main Street behind Courthouse Hill (between Court Street and St. Lawrence Avenue) will be closed from 5:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. to accommodate concertgoers, food vendors, and beverage stations.The series wouldn’t be possible without the generosity their sponsors, with a huge shout-out to Mercyhealth as the title sponsor once again. Other sponsors include Bend & Macy Ryan (on behalf of the Children’s Museum of Rock County), Sauk Valley Bank, BID, Voigt Music Center, and many more.Food and drinks will be available for purchase, and proceeds from beverage sales help fund Music at the Marv and future Downtown Janesville events. So when you grab a refreshment, you’re also supporting more community fun.Let’s #FillTheHillWhether you’re a weekly regular or new to the scene, Music at the Marv is the perfect way to spend your Tuesday nights this summer—great tunes, friendly faces, and an unbeatable downtown vibe.Want to give back? Donations to support Downtown Janesville, Inc.’s programming can be made at downtownjanesville.com/donate.We’ll see you on the hill—lawn chair or blanket in hand!

Sip, Stroll, and Support LocalDowntown Janesville is about to uncork another unforgettable afternoon as the Spring Wine Walk returns on Saturday, May 17, 2025! Presented by Smile Doctors, this beloved event draws over 600 attendees every spring and fall, and tickets are officially on sale at janesvillewinewalk.com.What to ExpectThe Wine Walk offers participants the chance to stroll through charming downtown Janesville or hop aboard a trolley while sampling wines at 18 local businesses. Each stop will offer a variety of wine tastings, and many will feature exclusive in-store specials. Snack stops and swag bags are also part of the fun.This event is more than just sipping vino—it’s a celebration of community. From boutiques to restaurants, the Wine Walk is a unique opportunity to explore everything downtown Janesville has to offer while supporting local merchants.Ticket OptionsVIP Tickets are $65 and include early access starting at 11:30 a.m. at Genisa Wine Bar, a catered lunch, an extra hour of wine tasting beginning at noon, a commemorative wine cup, swag bag, and special snack stops.General Admission Tickets are $45, with check-in starting at 1 p.m. These tickets also include wine tastings, snack stops, swag bag, and the commemorative wine cup. The event wraps up at 5 p.m.New This Year: Designated Driver TicketsThanks to sponsor Nowlan Personal Injury Team and downtown partners, a limited number of designated driver tickets are available.General Admission Designated Driver Ticket: Free and includes five mocktail tastings.VIP Designated Driver Ticket: $20 and includes a catered lunch at Genisa and five mocktail tastings.Designated mocktail stops include: American Belle Clothing, Lark Market, Bodacious, Genisa Wine Bar, and Hodgepodge Place. Registration is required for these tickets.Wine Stops GaloreAttendees can look forward to visiting 18 local stops, including: 608 Vintage, American Belle Clothing, Anne Rosa Interior Design, Bodacious Shops of Block 42, Chloe & Claire Boutique, Democratic Party of Rock County, French Lily Boutique, Garden of Eaton, Glass Garden, Hodgepodge Place, Just Us Gift Store / Blondie's Bling & Things, Lark Market, M.H. Vintage Collective, Mood, Papa Doc's Axe Throwing, Scarlett's Charm, The Sugar Exchange, and Velvet & Tulle Boutique.Note: Due to state law, wine must be consumed or disposed of inside each participating business before moving on.More Than Just Wine"The wine walks are a great opportunity for people to enjoy the downtown experience and directly support local businesses. We are excited for the addition of mocktails as a thank you to the designated drivers who attend and promote safety at our event," says Elaina Szyjewski, Managing Director.This event is also a fundraiser for Downtown Janesville, Inc., a volunteer-led nonprofit dedicated to enhancing and activating the downtown area.A Toast to Wine Walk SponsorsSponsors who help make this event possible include: Smile Doctors, Educator’s Credit Union, TDS Fiber, Downtown Janesville Business Improvement District, Sauk Valley Bank, Nowlan Personal Injury Team, The Diamond Center, First Community Credit Union, JP Cullen, Basic’s Co-op, Big Radio, Lamar Advertising, and Festival Foods.Whether you’re there for the wine, the shopping, or just a good time with friends, the Spring Wine Walk promises to be a fantastic way to experience the heart of Janesville. Cheers!