New owners of Poison Ivy Pub: "We bought a bar"
The new manager is planning daily specials and outdoor expansion for the Roscoe landmark.
As of Friday, May 9, 2025, Garry and Elizabeth Raley, and their partner and friend, Brian Folz are the new owners of Poison Ivy Pub at 5765 Elevator Road in Roscoe, across from the Roscoe Township office, and next to the Stone Bridge Trail.
Steve Quies has been the owner of Poison Ivy Pub for 24 years ago. He has expanded and refurbished the interior and exterior through the years. Poison Ivy has become a hang-out spot for many Roscoe and Rockton residents. The pub has had many names: Déjà Vu, Crocs Pub, Crocs and most recently, Poison Ivy.
After running the pub for over two decades, Steve decided to retire and pursue other interests. He was born and raised and attended schools in Roscoe. Now he plans to split his time between Roscoe and Arizona.
On Friday, May 9, 2025, Steve turned over ownership to Garry and Elizabeth Raney and Brian Folz.
“We hope to pick up where Steve left off,” Elizabeth said. “Our goal is to continue to bring customers what was good about Poison Ivy Pub: good food and tasty drinks, and now a better environment for all to enjoy.”
The three new owners are close friends. They bring a variety of experience with them. Brian is employed by William Charles as an electrician, and lives in Roscoe. Garry is a nuclear equipment operator at the Byron Nuclear Plant. He and Elizabeth and their family live in Rockton.
Elizabeth is taking an entirely different career route.
She has been an English professor at Rock Valley College for several years, teaching composition and literature. She decided to take a break from teaching for a while, and is looking forward to her new occupation as general manager. She will be at the pub full time.
Elizabeth has 16 years of experience working as a manager at restaurants and bars all over the Stateline area.
The new owners aren’t planning to make many changes. “We will have a separate dinner and lunch menu, and are planning to introduce daily specials.” Elizabeth said. “We would like expand the outdoor space and become more involved in local community events.”
The new owners are eager to get started. “Join us as we vitalize a staple of the Roscoe, Rockton area.”
