OSD Kickoff Party, Great American Clean Up Heading Into Rockton

OSD Kickoff party, Great American Clean Up heading into Rockton
By Marianne Mueller
REPORTER
The Rockton Lions Club OSD festival is one of the most looked forward to annual events in Rockton. Mark your calendars now for this year’s four-day event on June 13-16. The public is invited to join the Lions Club at the “OMG, its OSD’s Epic Party” this Saturday, April 13. Fun runs from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. allowing everyone a chance to take part in one or all of three remotes, games, prizes and food; all at the American Center. The Bull will do a live remote from 11 a.m. -1 p.m. WJLV will be around from 2-4 p.m. and the Q98.5 takes on the action from 5-7 p.m. An after party will move into fibs.
With warmer weather finally moving into the Stateline the season of rummage sales is here. The Rockton Lions Club is hosting a “Big garage sale” Thursday- Saturday, April 25, 26 and 27 at the former Country Cottage. Search for fun items from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. All proceeds will go toward helping the Rockton Lions Club’s mission of serving the community.
Volunteers are needed to take part in the Great American Clean up on Saturday, April 27. This event is held in conjunction with Keep Northern IL. Beautiful and provides the perfect opportunity to show community pride and is ideal for Scout Troops, school students who need volunteer hours, families; especially those who have younger children, churches and individuals; or anyone who wants to make the Village of Rockton and surrounding area even more beautiful. Pick up supplies at the Village Green Park from event organizers. Tongs, vests, garbage bags and gloves make the job go a little easier. Come for the entire three hours or any time you can give starting at 9 a.m.
Butler’s Emporium celebrated two years on Rockton’s Main Street on Saturday, April 6. Also celebrating on the same day is Rubies n Rust who has graced Rockton’s Main Street for the past five years. Here’s hoping for many more years of successful business!
Rockton’s history remains alive year round through efforts of the Rockton Township Historical Society. This week they launched their 2019 season by opening the museum to the public for tours from 10 am -2 pm. Museum visiting hours will continue through the year on Saturdays with special appointment times available by calling 815-624-8200. Everyone is invited to visit the stately historic home located at 529 Green Street to see what history the museum holds. New parking areas have been added at Warren off of Bridge Street and at the corner of Green Street and Blackhawk Blvd. Watch for news of upcoming events such as the annual Wagon Wheel program on May 5, Rhubarb Fest on May 20, summer walking tours, a big fall sale and much more. The road construction is over and the Museum is ready to welcome all visitors!
At the heart of Rockton’s core is where the full history begins with Stephen Mack and the early settlers on the grounds of Macktown Forest Preserve. Every year re-enactors take guests back to the 1800’s at the Gathering which is slated for April 27 and 28 from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day. Try traditional foods and beverages. Muzzleloader shooting, Traders, Voyagers, Blacksmithing, demonstrations of period crafts and lifeways, venders and a nice amount of encampments will also be found. The cost for adults is $7, Students- $5 and children under six enter free. The Gathering grows in popularity every year and has educated thousands of visitors on Rockton’s rich history since it began.
Join others in praying for our leaders in our nation, local leaders, and state leadership, all who serve and our overall world on Thursday, May 2 at noon. All with gather to celebrate the right and privilege to pray at Settler’s Park in a day focused on the reminder to, “Love One Another.” In the case of inclement weather the event will be moved inside of the Church by the Side of the Road.
Take part in this ongoing tradition once again being organized by Dee Ott who has led lovingly for the past 23 years.
Congratulations to all who emerged winners in the April 2 election. Thank you to all who ran for Rockton Village Board Trustee positions, and the Hononegah High School Board. Thank you all for your commitment to the Rockton community!
Talcott Library referendum won by an overwhelming majority. It will be wonderful to see the progress in the now future library expansion and renovations!
It is a sure sign of spring now that the Dairyhaus has opened for the season!