News Briefs: July 20, 2023

In the news: businesses moving in Rockton, street improvements in Roscoe, and a fundraiser at Nygren Wetland.

News Briefs: July 20, 2023
In the news: businesses moving in Rockton, street improvements in Roscoe, and a fundraiser at Nygren Wetland.

En Español: Noticias Breves: 20 de Julio, 2023


The building at 122 S. Prairie Street in Rockton, Illinois, previously housing Erica's Board Creations and Local Blessings, will become the new location of Home - In Rockton in September or October. The space will be a vibrant shopping destination for the community, offering decor, gifts, and vintage items.

Erica isn't closing her business, but is holding a  "HUGE MOVING SALE" on July 27 10:30-5:30 p.m. and July 28 10:30-4:30 p.m. with home decor, tables, shelves, cabinets, boards, & more to clear out the storefront. (more)

The site of Rockton's new mural on S. Prairie Street will become the new home of HOME in Rockton. Click the image for the full article.

The Village of Roscoe has initiated its 2023 Residential Streets Program, aimed at improving the quality of the streets in the area. The project, handled by Rock Roads Companies, is expected to be completed by September 8, 2023, in multiple phases over 7-9 weeks, subject to weather conditions. The project includes streets in the downtown area and the Sagewood subdivision.

During the construction period, the contractor will ensure at least one lane remains open at all times with the help of flaggers. Parking on the streets within the construction area will not be allowed between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. to facilitate efficient progress. (more)

Rock Roads Companies did road work with horses until the 1920s, but now they use larger equipment for residential and commercial asphalt paving. Undated photo from Rock Roads Companies. Click the image for the full article.

On July 15, 2023, guests gathered at Nygren Wetland for the "Wine & Brew at the Wetland" event, featuring live music by Kelly Steward and Co, with members of the 3 Good Men band, Pat Dougherty, and Greg Whitset. The casual outdoor party allowed guests to enjoy the scenic prairie surroundings while sampling beer and wine from local breweries such as Prairie Street Brewing Co., Reed Sjostrom, Carlyle Brewing Co., Urban Forest Craft Brewers, and Bruce Hammond. Artale and Co. provided natural and organic wine and whiskeys.

The event also offered delicious food from Greenfire. Proceeds from the event supported the Nygren Wetland Preserves, managed by the Natural Land Institute. Guests had the opportunity to explore the wetland and prairie either through guided walks or at their own pace.

The occasion marked the debut of the new executive director of the Natural Land Institute, Alan Branhagen, who returned to Rockford after serving in various horticulture and arboretum roles in other locations. The annual fundraising event was sponsored by several local businesses and individuals, contributing to the preservation and enjoyment of Nygren Wetlands, located at 3714 West Rockton Road, Rockton, IL. (more)

Beer from Urban Forest Beer in Rockford was among the brew choices offered at the Nygren Wetlands- Natural Land Institute fundraiser, July 15, 2023. Click the image for the full article.