Positive News, Stories, & Janesville Buzz Polls

The Janesville Performing Arts Center (JPAC) is preparing to honor two influential figures in the local arts scene at this year’s Rock County Arts Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Scheduled for January 17th at 7:00 PM in JPAC’s Gallery Theater, the event will celebrate the remarkable achievements of Laura Schuler and Teresa Nguyen, who have made lasting contributions to the arts in Rock County.Each year, JPAC, along with its community partners, recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional leadership, creativity, and dedication to enhancing the arts in the region. This year’s honorees, Schuler and Nguyen, are both well-known for their commitment to the arts and for inspiring countless others with their work.“We are thrilled to recognize Laura and Tess for their incredible impact on our community,” said Nathan Burkart, Executive Director of JPAC. “Their contributions have shaped many arts initiatives and have touched the lives of so many individuals through their involvement with various local organizations.”Laura Schuler: A Lifelong Commitment to the ArtsLaura Schuler has been a staple in the Janesville arts community for decades. As a performer, musician, and director, Schuler’s talent and dedication have helped shape the cultural landscape of Rock County. In addition to her work on stage, she has made a significant impact as a music and theatre teacher, mentoring and inspiring future generations of artists.“I am deeply honored to be recognized by local arts organizations,” Schuler said. “This community has been the foundation of my creative journey, and I am grateful to share this moment with the artists and supporters who inspire us all.”Schuler’s extensive contributions to the arts—through both her performances and her work as an educator—have enriched countless individuals and organizations in the area.Teresa Nguyen: Champion of Local ArtsTeresa Nguyen has also played a pivotal role in supporting the arts across Rock County. From her work with the Janesville Performing Arts Center to her involvement with organizations like JATV, the Janesville Art League, and Circle Arts Collective, Nguyen’s influence as an artist and advocate for the arts is far-reaching. Her talents as a musician and artist have been integral to numerous local projects celebrating and showcasing the work of fellow creatives.“It’s such an honor to receive this recognition, especially knowing how many other deserving individuals are doing incredible work in our community,” Nguyen shared. “It’s important to keep the arts alive because it feeds the soul, and I’ve been lucky to have the opportunity to share music, theater, and art with such a wonderful community.”Nguyen’s dedication to fostering artistic expression and supporting local talent has left a lasting impact on the arts community in Janesville and beyond.Induction Ceremony DetailsThe induction of Laura Schuler and Teresa Nguyen into the Rock County Arts Hall of Fame will take place on January 17th at 7:00 PM. The public is invited to attend this free event, with a cash bar available in the lobby from 6:00 to 7:00 PM.This ceremony offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the incredible contributions of Schuler and Nguyen to the arts, and the community is encouraged to join in honoring these two exceptional individuals.

If you're ever craving a comforting meal with a homemade touch, Jeff's Kitchen should be at the top of your list. This cozy, family-friendly spot is known for serving up hearty, flavorful dishes made from scratch, and it doesn't disappoint.During my recent visit, I opted for the classic chicken strips with fries—a simple choice, but one that truly let the quality of the ingredients shine. The chicken strips were perfectly crispy on the outside, with tender, juicy meat inside. Paired with golden fries, they made for a satisfying meal, and the homemade honey mustard dipping sauce was the perfect balance of tangy and sweet. The freshness of everything was evident, and it was clear that Jeff’s Kitchen takes pride in crafting each dish with care.My boss, Jake, went for the gyro burger, which featured a ground lamb patty, fresh lettuce, tomato, and a homemade cucumber sauce that brought the whole dish together. He said it was delicious and appreciated how the flavors were perfectly balanced. The lamb was well-seasoned and juicy, and the homemade sauce added a nice, creamy finish to the burger.One of the standout features of Jeff's Kitchen is their commitment to using homemade ingredients in every dish. From the sauces to the patties, you can taste the difference that care and quality make. The menu isn't extensive, but each item is thoughtfully prepared, which makes for a pleasant and comforting dining experience.The service was also top-notch—efficient and friendly, which made the visit all the more enjoyable. It was a quick meal without feeling rushed, and the atmosphere of the restaurant is inviting, with a cozy, small-town feel that made us feel right at home. Definitely go check it out!

We're back with January's Poll!! We want to know what your favorite LOCALLY OWNED place is to get cheese curds! (So that means do not say Culver's 🥰)Who has the best??? Let us know if we missed any spots :)

The Janesville Performing Arts Center (JPAC) is set to present one of the most beloved musicals of all time, Godspell, as part of its 2024-2025 season. Directed by JPAC’s very own Executive Director, Nathan Burkart, this production promises to be a memorable theatrical experience for the entire family. The show will run for two weekends, starting January 24th and continuing through February 2nd, with both matinee and evening performances available.A Musical With a Heartfelt MessageGodspell is known for its uplifting and inspiring themes, and this production will stay true to that spirit. Composed by Stephen Schwartz, the same genius behind Wicked, Godspell explores the teachings of Jesus Christ through a series of parables from the Gospel of Matthew. With a fun, energetic, and often clown-like approach to storytelling, the musical has a timeless message of love, compassion, and understanding.Director Nathan Burkart shares his passion for the production, saying, “The song Beautiful City sums up the show perfectly. It’s about imagining a world where we learn to love each other a little deeper, and truly understand what it means to be human. Our cast is diverse, coming from many different backgrounds and beliefs, yet we all find something valuable in the lessons presented through Jesus’ teachings.”The accessibility of Godspell—with its engaging and approachable format—makes it an ideal show for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The colorful costumes, lively performances, and memorable music combine to create a unique experience that resonates with everyone.A Community-Focused ProductionIn keeping with the theme of a “Beautiful City,” JPAC is going beyond just presenting a show. The lobby of the theater will feature a showcase of local nonprofits, highlighting the incredible work that organizations are doing to make Janesville and Rock County a better place. Additionally, JPAC is donating tickets to several local organizations, ensuring that the impact of this production extends far beyond the theater.Nonprofits that are interested in participating in the lobby showcase or would like to receive tickets for their members are encouraged to reach out to JPAC’s Box Office Coordinator, Kelly Clobes, at boxoffice@janesvillepac.org by January 15th, 2025.Tickets Now on SaleTickets for Godspell are currently available, and the show is expected to sell out quickly. For groups of 10 or more, there is a 10% discount on ticket sales. Don’t miss your chance to experience this heartwarming musical and support the amazing work of JPAC.Tickets can be purchased by visiting JPAC’s website at www.janesvillepac.org or by calling the box office at 608-758-0297. For more information or inquiries, feel free to email boxoffice@janesvillepac.org.Whether you’re a fan of musical theater or simply looking for a night of fun and reflection, Godspell promises to offer a powerful experience that will leave you inspired and uplifted. Make plans to see it in January 2025 at the Janesville Performing Arts Center!

Hey guys, today we're talking about some amazing work our local health care workers have been doing! Mercyhealth has recently reached a significant milestone in its cardiology care, successfully completing its 500th WATCHMAN procedure. This innovative procedure provides a groundbreaking alternative for individuals with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AFib) who have been dependent on long-term blood thinners for stroke prevention.Atrial fibrillation is a common heart rhythm disorder that increases the risk of stroke. Traditionally, patients with AFib are prescribed blood-thinning medications like warfarin (Coumadin), Eliquis, Xarelto, or Pradaxa to reduce that risk. However, these medications come with potential side effects, including an increased risk of bleeding. The WATCHMAN device offers a permanent solution that minimizes these risks by closing off the left atrial appendage, the part of the heart where blood clots often form in people with AFib.The WATCHMAN device, once implanted, provides ongoing stroke prevention without the need for long-term oral anticoagulation therapy. This advancement is particularly beneficial for patients who either cannot tolerate blood thinners or are looking for a more permanent solution.Dr. Imdad Ahmed, the system medical director of the Mercyhealth Arrhythmia Center, expressed enthusiasm about the milestone. "We’re excited to offer a life-changing alternative to blood thinners,” he said. “With 500 successful WATCHMAN implants, we’ve provided these patients with lasting protection against stroke, eliminating the need for ongoing medication management.”The procedure is performed through a minimally invasive approach, reducing recovery time and improving overall patient outcomes. Patients who undergo the procedure benefit from not only reduced stroke risk but also greater peace of mind as they are no longer reliant on daily blood thinner medications.Those interested in learning more about the WATCHMAN procedure or how it can benefit them can reach out to Mercyhealth at (608) 756-6868 or visit mercyhealthsystem.org/watchman.This achievement marks a significant advancement in Mercyhealth’s commitment to providing innovative, patient-centered care that addresses complex heart conditions with cutting-edge solutions.

Get ready to indulge in the best of downtown Janesville’s culinary scene during the highly anticipated Downtown Restaurant Week, set to take place from January 14 to 17, 2024. This exciting event, organized by Downtown Janesville Inc. in partnership with the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Downtown Business Improvement District, is an opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant food offerings at exclusive prices.Downtown Janesville Restaurant Week will showcase a variety of local restaurants, each offering unique menus that highlight their distinctive flavors and dining styles. Participating venues include popular spots like Drathouse, Genisa Wine Bar, Sandwich Bar, Sandee’s Thai Fusion, Bodacious Shops of Block 42, O’Riley & Conway’s, Franklin Street Tavern, The Looking Glass, and Whiskey Ranch.During the event, diners will have the chance to enjoy special two-course lunch options and/or three-course dinner menus. A number of restaurants will extend their Restaurant Week specials through the weekend, providing even more opportunities to savor the diverse dishes on offer. Menus for the event will be announced in early January, and visitors are encouraged to check with individual restaurants for the most up-to-date information on offerings.“Downtown Restaurant Week is a fantastic way for both residents and visitors to experience the incredible range of cuisine in our downtown area,” said Elaina Szyjewski, Managing Director of Downtown Janesville Inc. “It’s an event that brings the community together to celebrate local flavor, whether you're a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new.”For those eager to join in the festivities, early reservations are encouraged. With participating restaurants offering exclusive menus and a chance to support local businesses, Downtown Restaurant Week is the perfect opportunity to enjoy delicious meals and explore new dining spots in Janesville.For more details or to make a reservation, visit downtownjanesville.com or contact Downtown Janesville Inc. at info@downtownjanesville.com.Mark your calendar, bring your appetite, and join in the celebration of Janesville’s thriving restaurant scene this January!

This holiday season, Janesville’s downtown district is serving up a festive way to celebrate Wisconsin’s iconic Old Fashioned cocktail while supporting local businesses and community initiatives. Downtown Janesville Inc. is partnering with local bars and restaurants to host the Downtown Old Fashioned Christmas, a month-long event that aims to raise funds for holiday decorations throughout the downtown area. The celebration will run from December 6 through December 31, 2024.For just $10, visitors can purchase a special punch card at any participating location. Each time you order a unique Old Fashioned at one of the event’s featured bars or restaurants, you'll receive a punch on your card. The more locations you visit, the more chances you have to win exciting prizes, including a grand prize raffle basket valued at over $200.The festive punch card encourages participants to experience a variety of local interpretations of the Old Fashioned cocktail, with each business offering its own spin on this beloved Wisconsin classic. As you taste your way through the downtown area, be sure to vote for your favorite drinks in categories like "Best Theme," "Favorite Overall," and "Most Unique."Once your punch card is complete, simply turn it in to any participating bar or restaurant to be entered into the grand prize drawing. The grand prize includes two VIP tickets to Flannelfest, a local music and food event, along with exclusive Flannelfest swag, local products, and other goodies. Raffle winners will be drawn and contacted in January.Participating locations in the Downtown Old Fashioned Christmas event include Lark, Sandwich Bar, Drafthouse, The Looking Glass, O’Riley & Conway’s, Genisa Wine Bar, Sandee’s Thai Fusion, Whiskey Ranch, and Wiggy’s Saloon.While the punch card provides access to the raffle, please note that the cost of the cocktails themselves is not included. So, not only will you be treating yourself to some of the best Old Fashioned drinks in town, but you’ll also be helping fund the beautiful holiday decorations that bring warmth and cheer to the downtown area.This spirited event is a perfect opportunity to explore Janesville’s vibrant downtown, enjoy delicious cocktails, and give back to the community. Whether you're a local or just visiting, make sure to stop by and join in on the holiday fun!For more information, including details on how to purchase punch cards or a list of participating businesses, visit downtownjanesville.com or email info@downtownjanesville.com.

This holiday season, Janesville is making it easier than ever to support local businesses and enjoy the festive spirit with the return of its free Holiday Trolley rides. As part of the city’s new “Shop, Dine & Make Merry” promotion, residents and visitors can hop aboard the trolley to explore downtown shops, restaurants, and seasonal attractions—without the hassle of parking or navigating busy streets.The trolley service will run every weekend through December, providing a fun and convenient way to shop, dine, and experience Janesville’s holiday charm. With free rides from 1 PM to 8 PM on select days, the trolley offers visitors a chance to explore the best of what the city has to offer this holiday season.Convenient Stops, Festive FunThe Holiday Trolley will make several stops throughout Janesville, allowing passengers to easily access key shopping, dining, and cultural destinations. Popular stops include the Rotary Botanical Gardens, home to the spectacular Holiday Light Show; the Rock County Historical Society, which is hosting its annual Holiday Tree Show; and three downtown locations: Main and Court Streets, Milwaukee and Main Streets, and Milwaukee and Jackson Streets.For those looking to make the most of their trip, the trolley will also be running during the city’s highly anticipated Jolly Jingle weekend. This three-day celebration from December 6–8 features more than 30 holiday events, including the festive holiday light parade, fireworks, and a community tree lighting. On Jolly Jingle weekend, the trolley will have extended hours on December 6, from 4–9 PM, and December 7, from 1–4 PM, making it easy to hop on and off while enjoying all the holiday festivities.Local Shopping and Dining Made EasyWith the trolley’s convenient route, visitors can explore Janesville’s vibrant local shopping scene. From unique gifts at local boutiques to art galleries showcasing one-of-a-kind works, there’s something for everyone. Many retailers will have extended hours, offering plenty of opportunities to find the perfect holiday presents. For a complete list of nearly 60 locally-owned shops, visit Uniquely Local Shopping in Janesville.In addition to shopping, Janesville is also home to cozy dining spots perfect for a holiday meal or drink. Whether you’re in the mood for a festive cocktail, a warm winter dessert, or a traditional holiday feast, the city’s restaurants offer a wide variety of options to satisfy every taste.No Parking, No ProblemThe Holiday Trolley makes it easy for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy everything Janesville has to offer without worrying about parking or driving in winter weather. The free trolley rides provide a comfortable, stress-free way to visit all the top holiday destinations, from shopping centers and restaurants to the city’s renowned seasonal light displays. For those wishing to extend their visit, Janesville’s cozy hotels and bed-and-breakfasts provide the perfect place to relax and recharge before hopping back on the trolley to explore more.This promotion is made possible by the Janesville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (JACVB) in partnership with the Rock County Historical Society, Downtown Janesville, Inc., and Rotary Botanical Gardens.A Season to Celebrate LocalWhether you're looking to cross off items on your holiday shopping list, enjoy some local cuisine, or take in the festive decorations around town, the free Holiday Trolley is the perfect way to experience the best of Janesville this season. So leave the car behind and make the most of your holiday outing with a ride on the Trolley—it’s the easiest way to shop, dine, and make merry in Janesville!For more information on trolley schedules, stops, and holiday events, visit www.janesvillecvb.com.

For this month's poll, we want to know what your favorite local tattoo parlor is! If we missed any be sure to let us know and we'll add them to the poll!

Downtown Janesville's beloved Flannelfest will be making its return on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, marking the sixth year of this popular winter festival. Presented by Blain's Farm & Fleet, Flannelfest promises another action-packed day filled with craft beer tastings, games, live entertainment, and Wisconsin-themed fun.Tickets for the event go on sale at a special discount on Black Friday, November 29th. Visitors can snag tickets at the lowest price through December 8th by purchasing online at www.janesvilleflannelfest.com.Flannelfest will feature over 100 beers from some of Wisconsin's best craft breweries, with an exciting home brew competition sponsored by The Looking Glass. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample a variety of brews and vote for their favorite.The event isn’t just about beer—there’s plenty of entertainment for everyone. Guests can participate in games like the Lazy Man Run, corn hole, axe throwing, giant pong, hammerschlagen, a derby race, and jousting. For a truly unique experience, live chainsaw artists will also showcase their talents throughout the day.Food trucks and local vendors will be on hand, offering a selection of delicious food and merchandise to purchase.VIP Experience and Ticket OptionsFlannelfest offers a limited number of VIP tickets, providing exclusive perks such as access to a special VIP area at The Venue, a delicious lunch served from 12:00-1:30 PM, a unique VIP brew, live music, and a commemorative souvenir. VIP ticket holders will also enjoy beer tastings, games, a pretzel necklace-making station, and a Flannelfest beer mug and lanyard. VIP tickets are available for $90, and general admission tickets are priced at $45. After December 8th, ticket prices will increase.A Weekend of Fun in Downtown JanesvilleIn addition to the festivities at Flannelfest, several downtown businesses will host their own special events over the weekend, offering more ways to enjoy the season. Special room rates will be available at local hotels for those traveling to Janesville for the event. For more details on the weekend’s schedule and hotel accommodations, visit the Flannelfest website.“We’re excited to welcome back Flannelfest for its sixth year,” said Elaina Szyjewski, Managing Director of Downtown Janesville, Inc. “The event has become a major attraction, bringing people not only from Janesville but from all over Wisconsin. It’s a perfect way to embrace the winter season with friends, enjoy local craft beer, and have fun with unique games and activities.”Flannelfest is a key fundraiser for Downtown Janesville, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the local downtown community.For more information, including ticket purchases and event details, visit www.janesvilleflannelfest.com or email info@downtownjanesville.com.

Hey guys I’m back with a food review of some local eats in the Janesville area! Today I’m at the Bodacious Shops of Block 42 downtown. This is a great spot to visit, they have a coffee house, an olive oil shop, and a salad bar/restaurant all connected in one block of buildings.Today I was at The Bodacious Brew, their coffee house and got a tasty drink and some lunch! I got an iced Match Latte with oat milk, and it hit the spot. I usually make my own Match so I would consider myself picky, but Bodacious never seems to disappoint.For lunch I had their Avocado Toast. This was 2 slices of multigrain bread with avocado, roasted chic peas, pickled red onion, thinly sliced radish, cilantro, and olive oil. I’m always a sucker for any kind of avocado toast, this one was interesting as it had a kick to it. The combination of cilantro, radish, and pickled onion made it a little spicy. It paired nicely with the creamy coolness of the avocado and chic peas. Overall, would recommend giving it a try!I also sat and worked in their upstairs lounge for a few hours and it’s really a great environment to sit and get some work done. If you haven’t made it out to this Bodacious block, be sure to stop in next time you’re downtown!

Hey folks, today we’re getting into a bit of Janesville History and talking about breweries! More specifically the historic Northside Brewery along Rock River. KYLIE BALK-YAATENEN/KBALKYAATENEN@APG-SW.COMThere were many breweries in Janesville from the mid 19th century to probation including the Eagle Brewery, the Jacob Singer Brewery, the Todd and Company Brewery, and the Hodson Brewery. The Hodson Brewery was the first in Janesville but shortly burned down after being struck by lightening. However, the most long lived and successful brewery in Janesville was the City Brewery built around 1855, it was called Buob and Brother from 1874-1880 and is now referred to as the Northside Brewery. This was the largest lager beer producer in Janesville at the time. The brothers that owned it, John and Michael Buob made 3,000 barrels of beer every year. They did end up selling the brewery in 1882 to Gezelschap and Knipp to start a new brewery on the Southside, know as the Buob Brothers South Side Brewery or the M. Buob Brewing Company. They operated until 1906, producing 5,000 barrels of beer each year. They sold to the Croak Brewing Company where they continued to make beer until 1920. After prohibition ended, the brewery was renamed to the Bower City Brewing Company, producing 7,000 barrels a year. However, this was not enough to keep up with competition and the brewery officially closed in 1939. KYLIE BALK-YAATENEN/KBALKYAATENEN@APG-SW.COMSo, what came to be of this historic City Brewery? The Rock County Historical Society and beer historian Robert Bier (above) started an excavation of the old brewery cite in 2015. You can still see the outlines of the building and barrel and machinery stains. Sitting vacant, the building was overgrown and degraded by nature and time and was eventually torn down in the 1940s. They’ve come across artifacts from the brewery such as machine parts, beer bottles, caps, and labels, barrel parts, and rat traps. RCHBBS FacebookThe goal is to recreate the building using as much of the original materials they have and turn it into an educational museum about Janesville’s brewing history. You can currently go there and read informational signs and scan QR codes to learn more about the brewery’s history and see the outline volunteers have restored of the original building. Definitely go check out this fascinating piece of our town’s history! You can also follow the Rock County's Historic Breweries, Bars, and Saloons-RCHBBS Facebook page for updates!Sources: https://www.gazettextra.com/news/local/beer-story-1850s-northside-brewery-re-emerging-along-the-rock-river-in-janesville/article_359153ee-786a-11ef-b5d5-47e2d1df9787.htmlhttps://search.library.wisc.edu/digital/AG45BY7CJ4YZKS8B/full/AVXJ6XQ5XLXPY79Ehttps://search.library.wisc.edu/digital/AG45BY7CJ4YZKS8B/full/AEC3CFBCAEWZZJ8Rhttps://www.facebook.com/janesvillebreweriesHuge thank you to Mary at the Hedberg Public Library for gathering these resources!

Hey Janesville, I hope you’re hungry because today I’m reviewing O'Riley & Conway's Irish Pub on W Milwaukee St! This is a homey pub that offers a large beer and scotch selection along with traditional pub fare and Irish specialties. They have live music every week and two bars! This place was very cozy with festive lights and rich dark wood decor.I had the Limerick Chicken Sandwich which had a massive chicken breast, a slab of bacon, Wisconsin pepper jack cheese, a herb aioli sauce all on a brioche bun. I also had a heaping side of sweet potato fries. This sandwich was delicious and definitely lasted me a couple meals. The sweet potato fries were on point and devoured very fast. Jake had a Stout along with the Glasgow BLT which consisted of apple bacon, lettuce, tomato, and herb aioli on 9 grain wheat toast. I can't attest to the flavor myself but he had no leftovers and it looked amazing!If you're looking for some local Irish eats be sure to check them out, that's the buzz!

For this month's poll we want to know what your favorite local breakfast spot is! Cast your vote and let us know! If we missed your favorite spot, let us know and we'll add them to the poll!

Hey guys, I’m back with another article on the public art of Janesville! This week we’re talking about the history behind the “Black Hawk” mural downtown by Brooklyn artist Jeff Henriquez. Henriquez has done other notable works around town such as the “In History We Trust” mural. He painted this mural in only 10 days with spray paint. This mural depicts Sauk leader Chief Black Hawk. This was Janesville’s first major artistic tribute to Native Americans. Henriquez had to gather many drawings, paintings, and sculptures of Black Hawk to base this mural off of as there are no real photographs of him. As you can see in the mural Black Hawk is dressed in traditional red cloth and wears a bead and porcupine quill necklace and feather headdress. On the headdress there are two eagle feathers blowing in the wind. On Black Hawk’s left is a great white buffalo. They are known as a good omen as they are extremely rare. Henriquez wanted Blackhawk to proudly look over Janesville’s main street with wisdom “while basking in the glory of the beautiful planes and mountains that belong to him and his people.” The mural was revealed with a Native American ceremony consisting of singing and drumming in 2019. If you want to learn more about Jeff Henriquez go visit the links below but also be sure to take a moment to appreciate this mural next time you’re in town!Artist's website: www.jeffhenriquez.comArtist's Instagram: instagram.com/jeffhenriquezart

Hey folks, I’m back with another piece on Janesville’s rich art history. Today we’re talking about “The Adventurer” Mural covering the Harris Ace Hardware building downtown. It was created during 2021 Art Infusion by David Mark Zimmerman, Milwaukee graphic designer and illustrator who often explores movement, vibrancy, humor, and curiosity in his works. He is also known as Bigshot Robot. This is a huge mural; you can see it from all the way across the river. It being next to the river and bus stations aids in its symbolism of finding adventure in our town but also getting lost on purpose according to Zimmerman. This represents the spirit of the indigenous people who lived in Janesville as well. As Zimmerman dug into Janesville’s history, he said he was “fascinated how the river played such an important part in creating meeting places and connecting paths and trading posts that grew into towns and flourished,” So, he created the explorer seeking their path and purpose to honor our ancestors adventuring spirit. If you want to learn more about David Mark Zimmerman, you can check out his social media and website linked below. Also linked is a recording of Zimmerman reflecting on the piece!website: www.bigshot-robot.comInstagram: instagram.com/bigshotrobotFacebook: facebook.com/BigshotRobotZimmerman speaking on the piece: https://files.idss.com/public/C225/d5c8e37e-6e87-4e97-8c72-a6e92831457e.mp3

Hey Janesville, I’m back with my public art series, this week we’re featuring the “River of Life” mural on the River Street side of the Rock River Charter School. This 100-foot-long mural was painted in 2021 Art Infusion by Cuban-American visual artist from Miami, Ivan Roque. The background was painted with acrylic, and the foreground was painted with spray paint. Overall, it took him 7 days to complete. Roque says the piece is about “the journey we embark on in the pursuit of knowledge wisdom and open mindedness it takes to live a full life.” The flora and fauna in the piece represent this same theme, the owl represents wisdom, the butterflies represent freedom, and the otters represent playfulness and curiosity. Roque says all these traits play an important role in life. Roque uses vines in all his pieces to symbolize connection, along with the obstacles in life we face represented by the thorns that ultimately shape who we are. He wanted this piece to be a sort of stream of consciousness along the wall and also played with the fact that we have a river running through our city. I encourage you all to check out this mural and if you want to learn more about Ivan Roque you can check out the links below!Artist's website: www.ivanroque.comArtist's Instagram: instagram.com/ivanjroqueArtist's Facebook: facebook.com/ivanisforeverlostArtist speaking on the piece https://files.idss.com/public/C225/a7bc3cdb-ce56-4342-9aad-9905b1dd7bdd.m4a

Hello Janesville and welcome back to my public art blog series, this week we’re talking about the “Dancing on the Stars” mural downtown on the Performing Arts Center. The artist behind this mural is Ruben Aguirre, a Chicago based artist who specializes in the intersection of abstraction, formalism, graffiti, and muralism. He made the mural in 2021 Art Infusion. He draws inspiration from typography, geography, and the human body. He has had exhibits at the Chicago Cultural Center, the Hyde Park Art Center, and has a solo exhibit at The National Museum of Mexican Art coming up. He has done commission work for large corporations such as Google, Adidas, Linked IN, and Conde Nast to name a few.In this mural, Aguirre wanted to incorporate the Janesville flag, native plant life, and colors that were representative of the landscape. He created an abstract interpretation of the Janesville flag with a tree and 4 suns representing the tree and 4 stars on the flag. He wanted to have a unique interpretation, making the stars suns, as the sun is a star. He also incorporated exaggerated cattails and some other native plant life and painted the background blue to represent the river flowing through Janesville. As a nod to the Performing Arts Center, he added some ballerinas dancing.If you want to check out more of Aguirre’s work, you can visit his website or Instagram www.theshiftchange.com www.instagram.com/likes_1If you’d like to hear an interpretation of this piece in his own words, you can check it out here! https://files.idss.com/public/C225/d422668d-d640-4e47-88ab-32c861b56e98.m4aAnd of course, be sure to stop and check it out next time you’re downtown!

Hey Janesville, welcome back to my public art series! This week we're talking about a new and exciting sculpture on the southeast corner of River and Court Streets.Last Wednesday 9/25 the City of Janesville unveiled a brand-new public art installation entitled “Self-Worth” by local artist Richard Lazcano. The sculpture stands at 12 feet tall depicting a bicyclist taking a selfie to showcase a slice of daily life. You can actually interact with this piece as the tire pump of the bike acts as a selfie stand community members can use to take their own pictures!All parts of the sculpture are recycled bike parts donated by Brian and Ann Reece, The Bike Elves, and Michael's Cycles. The piece was commissioned by Lynn and John Westphal. Lynn says “We are lifelong bicyclists who have supported all types of local bicycling initiatives for many years.” They wanted to create a landmark that links the downtown area, the town square, the river, and the ice age trail to promote exploration and connection in our city.Artist Richard Lazcano is also known for his sculpture, Gloria the Eagle in the Janesville Town Square, shared his take on the piece, “The title represents a journey of self-discovery and confidence. Initially, I doubted my ability to complete such a monumental project, but through perseverance and creativity, I realized my potential. This sculpture stands as a reminder that we all have the strength and capability within us.”The unveiling ceremony featured remarks from the Westphals, Lazcano, and local officials. The project was made possible through the efforts of Mike Payne, Public Works Director; Emily Moccero, Engineering Department; Angus Young Associates; and J.P. Cullen, who completed the sitework and installation.So next time you’re in the area, I encourage you to check out this stunning new landmark!

We want to know what your favorite place is to get clothes and accessories! Let us know if we missed anyone and we'll add them :)

Hey Janesville, I hope you’re hungry because today I’m reviewing Sandwich Bar on South Main Street! They advertise that they make “life-altering sandwiches” and let me tell you they are not messing around. This was my first time visiting and my goodness I was not expecting how good this meal was. So let’s get into it!I had the Ooh La La sandwich for $13 consisting of roasted turkey, raspberry-basil aioli, arugula and balsamic on a croissant bun. I was expecting deli sliced turkey, but to my delight they had big, juicy slabs of turkey. The raspberry-basil aioli was such an interesting pairing for a turkey sandwich, but it worked extremely well – I think that was the highlight of the sandwich. And of course, you can’t go wrong with a croissant so overall 10/10 experience. Jake had the Jolene for $14 which had country fried chicken, pimento cheese, Alabama white sauce, and lettuce on a bun. I can’t personally attest to the flavor, but he looked extremely happy. Definitely trying that one next!The atmosphere and service were also great. I’d highly recommend stopping in!

Hey Janesville, I’m coming to you with another article in my public art series! This week we’re talking about the “In History We Trust” mural downtown on 101 E Milwaukee St! This piece was created in 2020 by featured art infusion artist Jeff Henriquez, an artist from New Jersey. He works with mediums including spray paint, pen, and ink and has a degree in painting from Bradford College.Henriquez says this piece was meant to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of women’s right to vote and represents the struggles and victories of colored women in America. There’s a lot of symbolism in this one, so let’s dive in!The piece features two women of color, the one on the left an African American women wearing a natural afro, a necklace with Harriet Tubman on it, and BLM stitched into her shirt collar. Wearing a natural afro was once seen as a rebellious act, so Henriquez wanted to represent that rebellion seen in the 60s in Western society. He added Harriet Tubman on her necklace to represent black freedom in America and the abolitionist efforts in Janesville including speakers Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln in 1859 and a documented Underground Railroad stop near Milton.He wanted to represent the past, present, and future in this piece, so he added the subtle detail of “BLM” stitched into her t-shirt collar to represent the current times and struggles of people of color. The colorful window to the left of her represents a critical tool used to help slaved people escape by sending signals of food and safety. This window can be seen from the Tillman House in Janesville. Behind this window is a sunrise to represent hopes for a brighter future of peace and equality for us all.The woman on the right is a Native American with a wolf and moon on her right shoulder as well as a small and large eagle feather to represent the unity in native tribes between youth and elders. The moon represents the 25,000 years indigenous people have been on this land and the wolf howling under it represents the strength she has for her pack.In the background are city lights to represent our modern era and the struggles people of color still face. The flowers at the bottom are wood violets, the Wisconsin state flower.If you want to learn more about Jeff, you can visit is website www.jeffhenriquez.com but be sure to take some time to appreciate the history and symbolism in this mural next time you’re downtown! (You can also hear Jeff speak on this mural in the source link below).Source: https://www.janesvillecvb.com/things_to_do/details/4720/247821/In_History_We_Trust_Mural'Photographer: Kim Hoholek

What’s up Janesville, it’s Carly and I’m back with another food review this week! We visited Genisa Wine Bar located downtown in Janesville’s only historically preserved Italianate-style building on 11 N Main St.Although the outside of the building is historical, the inside is extremely modern and downright gorgeous. It took me a while to look around and fully ingest all of the details of my surroundings. We went around 3pm so only drinks and snack items were available, but this was more than enough to leave me satisfied with my experience. I ordered their Margherita Pizza consisting of delicious traditional red sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil cooked in a red Italian brick oven I could see from my table. Their Neo-Neapolitan dough is made with a living sourdough starter and takes about 3 days to prepare. It was extremely tasty and made for some good leftovers as well. We also got the Florentine Artichoke Dip made up of artichoke, kale, sarvecchio parmesan, and crostini. I’m a sucker for any artichoke dip so I of course loved this creamy appetizer. This was an overall lovely experience, the service was polite and timely, the food was amazing, and the atmosphere was to die for. Next time you’re looking for some good Italian food, you know where to go!

Hey Janesville, welcome back to my public art series! This week I’ll be covering the “Rock Stars” mural that was on the former record store, The Exclusive Company, on Milton Avenue. The chain closed in 2021 with the death of their founder, James Giombetti. The mural has since been painted over, but it’s still a part of Janesville History!The wall has been repainted a few times, the first mural had colorful depictions of music legends David Bowie, Bob Marley, Janis Joplin, and Miles Davis. This mural faded with time and inclement weather, so The Exclusive Company decided to repaint it with a more diverse and modern variety of artists. They had 3 artists attempt to repaint the mural, the first two giving up before finishing. Finally, the third artist Mitchell Highnam, an employee at The Exclusive Company, completed the mural in 2016. The black and white mural included musicians such as Nas, Kurt Cobain, Billie Holiday, Prince, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan.I wish I could say go check it out, but unfortunately the music mural has gone along with it’s record store...should there be a 4th attempt?Until next time Janesville!Source: The Janesville Gazette