Along The Rock

The Radar Free Press

Along the Rock, a video podcast produced by The Radar Free Press. We speak with local people regarding nonprofits, upcoming events, awards and news for the areas of Dixon, Rock Falls and Sterling in northwest Illinois.

  1. 1d ago

    Grand Detour Arts Festival Celebrates 77 Years of Art, Music & Community!

    The Grand Detour Art Festival is celebrating 77 years of bringing artists, families, music, food, history, and community together at the John Deere Historic Site in Grand Detour. On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with festival organizers Lynn Roe and Becky Hage to talk about this year's event, the festival's incredible history, and what visitors can expect when they arrive. From more than 50 artists showcasing original artwork to live music, local food vendors, historic tours, and blacksmith demonstrations, the free, rain-or-shine festival offers something for everyone. The episode also highlights the festival's popular student art show, which gives young artists from kindergarten through age 18 the opportunity to display their work and compete for monetary awards. Organizers discuss why encouraging the next generation of artists has become such an important part of the festival's tradition. Learn how the festival began in 1948, how it has evolved over the decades, and how volunteers, sponsors, artists, and the community continue to keep the tradition alive. 🎨 Grand Detour Art Festival📍 John Deere Historic Site, Grand Detour⏰ 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.🌧️ Rain or shine🎟️ Free admission🖼️ 50+ artists🎵 Live music🍔 Local food vendors🔥 Live blacksmith demonstrations👩‍🎨 Student art show Artists may still have a limited opportunity to participate through the festival's late online registration process. Watch the full episode to learn why the Grand Detour Art Festival remains one of the region's most enduring celebrations of creativity and community. Subscribe to The Radar Free Press for more episodes of Along the Rock and stories from across the Sauk Valley. #AlongTheRock #GrandDetourArtFestival #GrandDetour #ArtFestival #SaukValley #LocalArtists #StudentArt #JohnDeereHistoricSite #IllinoisEvents #CommunityEvents #TheRadarFreePress

  2. 1d ago

    Art, Music & More! Rock Falls’ Art in the Park Returns August 29

    Join host Kierstyn Long for another episode of Along the Rock, presented by the Radar Free Press, as she sits down with Rock Falls Tourism Director Melinda Jones to preview the 2026 Art in the Park celebration. Learn about the annual Sculpture Walk, the rotating outdoor art gallery, local and regional artists, live acoustic music, food trucks, and the unique Otocast app that lets visitors hear directly from the sculptors behind each piece. Plus, hear about other exciting events coming to Rock Falls this fall, including the Taco Throwdown, lumberjack competitions, and the Halloween Lighted Golf Cart & UTV Parade. Art in the Park📅 Saturday, Aug. 29🕙 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.📍 RB&W Park, 201 E. Second St., Rock Falls, Illinois🎟️ Free Admission 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online 🎤 Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction 00:42 – What Is Art in the Park? 01:38 – More Than Just Sculpture 01:54 – Art in the Park 2026 Details 02:12 – Meet the Artists 03:34 – Live Music Lineup 04:12 – A Relaxing Day in the Park 04:27 – Free Admission & the Sculpture Walk 04:50 – Explore the Sculptures With the Otocast App 05:28 – Local Sponsors & Sculpture Plaques 06:12 – How Artists Can Apply 07:07 – Getting Involved as an Artist 07:21 – What's Coming Up in Rock Falls? 07:46 – Fall Events in Rock Falls 08:16 – Closing Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Radar Free Press⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and Follow us on all social media platforms below: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepress https://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepress https://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/ https://rumble.com/radarfreepress https://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepress https://x.com/radarfreepress https://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/ https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #ArtInThePark #RockFallsIllinois #RockFallsIL #SculptureWalk #OutdoorArt #LocalArtists #LiveMusic #ArtsAndCulture #SaukValley #IllinoisEvents #CommunityEvents #ArtFestival #SupportLocalArtists #RockFallsTourism #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #TheRadarOnline

  3. 2d ago

    Sterling for Jesus: Bringing Faith, Worship & Community Together in Sterling

    On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Tony Flores to discuss the story behind his Facebook ministry, Faith, Fire, and Passion, and the inspiration for the upcoming Sterling for Jesus community event. Tony shares how a calling that began more than 35 years ago led him to create a ministry focused on sharing the Gospel, encouraging others, and bringing people together. He also talks about his vision for Sterling for Jesus, a free community event featuring pastors, personal testimonies, worship music, and an invitation for churches and community members from across the Sauk Valley to come together. 📍 Sterling for Jesus🗓️ Saturday, Aug. 29🕛 Noon📍 Grandon Civic Center, Sterling, Illinois🎟️ Free to attend

  4. 2d ago

    From Australia to Chicago: Michael Charles’ 40-Year Journey Through the Blues

    Watch this inspiring episode of Along the Rock as host Kierstyn Long sits down with internationally acclaimed Australian blues guitarist Michael Charles. Michael shares the incredible story of how a single invitation to perform at Buddy Guy's Legends in Chicago changed the course of his life, launching a decades-long career across the United States and Canada. From playing alongside blues legends to touring small-town America, Michael reflects on the experiences that have shaped both his music and his outlook on life. In this episode, you'll hear about: Michael's journey from Australia to ChicagoHis unforgettable first performance with Buddy GuyWhy he loves performing in small communities like Sterling, IllinoisThe inspiration he received from his fatherAdvice for aspiring musicians and anyone pursuing their dreamsHis 2026 Where to Next Tour If you're a fan of blues music, inspiring life stories, or great conversations with talented artists, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 🎸 Michael Charles performs at Johnny's in Sterling, Illinois, on August 29. 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online 🎤 Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction 00:40 – From Australia to Chicago 01:17 – Playing With Buddy Guy 02:02 – Meeting Blues Legends 02:29 – Why He Came Back to America 03:35 – A Career Highlight 04:28 – The Night He Met Buddy Guy 05:40 – A Dream Come True 06:34 – The “Where to Next?” 2026 Tour 07:54 – Taking Chances & Trusting Your Instincts 09:00 – Why He Loves Playing Small Towns 10:37 – The Magic of Intimate Venues 11:31 – Picking Up the Guitar at Age 5 12:30 – Music as a Lifelong Passion 13:53 – The Father Who Inspired His Music 15:01 – “Never Do Anything You Don’t Want to Do” 15:40 – Advice for Aspiring Musicians 16:45 – No Regrets After a Lifetime of Music 16:56 – Michael Charles at Johnny’s in Sterling 17:15 – Closing Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Radar Free Press⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and Follow us on all social media platforms below: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepress https://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepress https://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/ https://rumble.com/radarfreepress https://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepress https://x.com/radarfreepress https://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/ https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #MichaelCharles #BluesMusic #ChicagoBlues #AustralianBlues #BuddyGuy #BluesGuitar #BluesMusician #LiveMusic #SterlingIllinois #SaukValley #Johnnys #MusicianLife #AspiringMusicians #FollowYourPassion #Blues #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #TheRadarOnline

  5. 3d ago

    Why Early Childhood Education Is in Crisis — And What the Sauk Valley Can Do About It

    Birth to Five Illinois is shaping the future of early childhood education—one community conversation at a time. On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Abby Hoskins, Maggie Fern, and Rachael DeSpain to discuss the work of the Birth to Five Illinois Action Council in Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside counties. The group explores how families, educators, community leaders, and local organizations are working together to improve access to child care, support early childhood educators, and address workforce shortages. They also highlight the OWL Early Childhood Resource Hub, recent community initiatives, and a new campaign recognizing the dedicated professionals who care for and educate young children. Tune in to learn how these collaborative efforts are helping build a stronger future for children, families, and communities across the Sauk Valley. Along the Rock is a podcast from The Radar, featuring conversations with the people and organizations making a difference in our communities.

  6. 4d ago

    From 1 Meal to 1,700 a Month: How Loaves & Fishes Feeds the Sauk Valley Community

    In this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Susan and Paul Gould to discuss the mission behind Loaves and Fishes, how the program grew from serving just one guest on its first day to more than 1,700 meals in a single month, and why everyone is welcome at their table. 🍳 Free Community Breakfast📍 First United Methodist Church (Broadway Methodist Church) Annex501 Broadway, Sterling, IL🗓 Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays⏰ 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. No registration, ID, or eligibility requirements are needed—everyone is welcome to enjoy a hot breakfast. Learn how the organization operates entirely through volunteers, community donations, local churches, and generous supporters who help ensure no one has to go without a hot meal. If you'd like to support Loaves and Fishes through volunteering or donations, this episode is a great place to start. 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online 🎤 Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction 00:45 – What Is Loaves & Fishes? 01:30 – 15 Years of Serving the Community 02:08 – From One Person to 100 People a Day 02:42 – When and Where Loaves & Fishes Serves 03:46 – The Inspiration Behind Loaves & Fishes 04:36 – Where the Food Comes From 05:20 – Donations, Grants & Community Support 06:34 – How You Can Help 07:24 – Support From Local Churches 08:16 – A Community-Wide Volunteer Effort 09:34 – Everyone Is Welcome 10:06 – What's on the Menu? 10:28 – Why Thursdays Are So Popular 11:17 – The Little Boy Who Came for Biscuits & Gravy 11:39 – Thank You, Loaves & Fishes 12:00 – Closing Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Radar Free Press⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and Follow us on all social media platforms below: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepress https://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepress https://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/ https://rumble.com/radarfreepress https://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepress https://x.com/radarfreepress https://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/ https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #LoavesAndFishes #SaukValley #SterlingIllinois #CommunitySupport #CommunityBreakfast #FeedingTheCommunity #LocalCommunity #Volunteer #CommunityOutreach #RadarFreePress #AlongTheRock #RockFallsIllinois #SterlingIL #GivingBack #SaukValleyCommunity

  7. 4d ago

    Are Forgotten Subscriptions Costing You Hundreds? 💸 | Cash & Coffee

    How many subscriptions are quietly draining your bank account every month? In this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emlyn Zimmerman discuss the hidden cost of forgotten subscriptions and how small monthly charges can add up to hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars each year. From streaming services and gym memberships to free trials that become paid plans, Quinn and Emlyn share practical tips for reviewing your recurring expenses, avoiding duplicate subscriptions, reading the fine print, and putting that money toward savings instead. If you've ever signed up for a free trial and forgotten to cancel it, this episode is for you. In this episode: Why forgotten subscriptions cost more than you thinkThe dangers of free trials and automatic renewalsHow small monthly charges add up over timeAvoiding duplicate streaming and music servicesTips for reviewing and canceling recurring subscriptions 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment, and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online 🎤 Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 00:28 The Hidden Cost of Subscriptions 00:59 Free Trials That Turn Into Monthly Bills 01:27 The Forgotten Gym Membership 01:56 How Small Charges Add Up 02:19 Where Could That Money Go Instead? 02:54 The “Free” QR Code That Wasn’t Free 03:35 Always Read the Fine Print 04:12 Avoiding Automatic Renewals 05:11 Why Small Subscriptions Become a Big Deal 05:21 The Gift Card Subscription Trick 06:10 Check Your Subscriptions 06:17 Don’t Pay for Multiple Services That Do the Same Thing 06:44 The High Cost of Sports Subscriptions 07:19 Cancel Your Unused Subscriptions Follow us on all social media platforms below: https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepress https://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepress https://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/ https://rumble.com/radarfreepress https://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepress https://x.com/radarfreepress https://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/ https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #CashAndCoffee #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #PersonalFinance #MoneyTips #SavingMoney #Subscriptions #Budgeting #FinancialTips #MoneySavingTips #FreeTrials #StreamingServices #MonthlyExpenses

  8. Aug 13

    Tomato Troubles! Common Tomato Problems, Pests & Diseases Explained | Along the Rock

    What makes a tomato safe to eat—and when should you throw it away? On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Bruce J. Black of Illinois Extension to explore common tomato troubles every gardener is likely to encounter. From fungal diseases like anthracnose, early blight, late blight, and powdery mildew to harmless physiological disorders such as catfacing and fruit cracking, Bruce explains how to recognize the difference and what each issue means for your harvest. The conversation also covers: 🍅 The best time to harvest tomatoes for peak flavor🌱 Why heirloom tomatoes often look imperfect but taste incredible🐛 How to identify and manage tomato hornworms🌿 Tips for preventing disease and keeping tomato plants healthy🥗 Which damaged tomatoes are still safe to eat Bruce also shares information about the upcoming Farmer Mental Health First Aid workshop, a free community program designed to help participants recognize signs of mental health challenges and connect people with valuable local resources. Whether you're growing your first tomato plant or you've been gardening for years, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you enjoy a healthier, more productive garden. 👉 Don’t forget to like, share, comment and subscribe for more local stories from the Sauk Valley and beyond. 🎧 Listen to the full podcast and explore more at https://theradar.online 🎤 Highlights: 00:00 Welcome to Along the Rock 00:40 Tomato Troubles 02:22 How to Pick the Perfect Tomato 03:25 The Best Time to Harvest Tomatoes 05:23 Anthracnose 08:00 Bruised Tomatoes: Are They Safe to Eat? 09:15 Tomato Hornworms 11:33 Powdery Mildew 13:36 Catfacing on Tomatoes 17:38 Early Blight 20:41 Late Blight 23:19 How to Stop Tomato Diseases From Spreading 25:54 Why Tomatoes Crack 27:27 Exploring Different Tomato Varieties 30:49 There Are Thousands of Tomato Varieties 32:21 Tomato Troubles vs. Tomato Triumphs 32:54 Farmer Mental Health First Aid 35:39 Workshop Registration Information 36:14 Closing Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Radar Free Press⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and Follow us on all social media platforms below: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepress https://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepress https://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHk https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790 https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/ https://rumble.com/radarfreepress https://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepress https://x.com/radarfreepress https://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/ https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #Tomatoes #TomatoTroubles #Gardening #GardeningTips #HomeGardening #TomatoGarden #GardenPests #PlantDiseases #TomatoPlants #FarmersMarket #IllinoisExtension #FarmerMentalHealth #MentalHealthAwareness

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About

Along the Rock, a video podcast produced by The Radar Free Press. We speak with local people regarding nonprofits, upcoming events, awards and news for the areas of Dixon, Rock Falls and Sterling in northwest Illinois.

Information

  • Creator
    The Radar Free Press
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    459
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Radar Free Press
  • Show Website
    Along The Rock