Along The Rock

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By: 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.

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Spooky Season on a Budget! 🎃 DIY Halloween Costumes & Money-Saving Tips
Spooky Season on a Budget! 🎃 DIY Halloween Costumes & Money-Saving Tips episode artwork
Today at 11:00 AM

🎃 Cash and Coffee: How to Save Money This Halloween! DIY Costumes, Thrifting & Budget-Friendly Tips

Halloween doesn't have to haunt your wallet! 👻 On this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman talk about their favorite Halloween costumes, childhood memories, and how families can celebrate spooky season without overspending.

From DIY costumes and Goodwill finds to Facebook Marketplace bargains and clearance decorations, discover creative ways to stretch your dollars while making Halloween memories that last.

☕ In this episode:

🎭 Favorite childhood Halloween costumes and homemade creations

💸 Why store-bought costumes can c...


Nolan Kemp on Affordability, Utility Bills, Flock Cameras & Campaign Money
Nolan Kemp on Affordability, Utility Bills, Flock Cameras & Campaign Money episode artwork
Last Friday at 5:00 PM

Join host Kierstyn Long for a special political candidate edition of Along the Rock featuring Nolan Kemp, a candidate for Illinois State Representative in the 74th District.A Dixon native and emergency medical technician, Kemp shares how his experiences in emergency services inspired him to pursue public service and discusses the issues he hopes to address if elected.In this episode, hear Kemp discuss:• Affordability: His ideas for addressing economic challenges and improving government efficiency.• Utility Bills: His support for the proposed No More Utility Bill Ripoff Customer Protection Act and stronger consumer protections.• Campaign Financing: Why he has pledge...


Halloween Apple Folklore, Pumpkin Pie History & The Great Pumpkin Smash! 🎃 Part 2
Halloween Apple Folklore, Pumpkin Pie History & The Great Pumpkin Smash! 🎃 Part 2 episode artwork
Last Friday at 11:00 AM

🎃 Halloween Horticulture: Spooky Plant Traditions, Historic Pumpkin Pie & the Pumpkin Smash!

What do apples have to do with predicting your future spouse? Why was rosemary believed to protect against evil spirits? And how did people make pumpkin pie in colonial times? 🌿🍎

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Bruce J. Black from Illinois Extension for a Halloween-themed horticulture adventure exploring the fascinating history behind apples, herbs, pumpkins, and spooky seasonal traditions.

Plus, discover the Third Annual Pumpkin Smash at Sauk Valley Community College! 🎃 Learn how you can help keep pumpkins out...


Inside Sterling Landmark: Infinite Possibilities for Storage, Business & More
Inside Sterling Landmark: Infinite Possibilities for Storage, Business & More episode artwork
Last Thursday at 9:00 PM

Join host Kierstyn Long on this episode of Along the Rock, brought to you by the Radar Free Press, as she visits Sterling Landmark in Sterling, Illinois, to learn how a historic manufacturing facility is being transformed into a space full of possibilities!

General Manager Jim Wise takes us inside the former Frantz Manufacturing Factory at 301 West Third Street to explore how Sterling Landmark is serving local residents, businesses, and entrepreneurs with flexible storage, warehouse space, and potential office opportunities.

🚗 Looking for indoor vehicle storage? A1 Autos and Boats offers indoor storage for cars, trucks, boa...


From Cleaning Houses to Changing Lives: Taylor McDaniel’s Community Compassion Mission
From Cleaning Houses to Changing Lives: Taylor McDaniel’s Community Compassion Mission episode artwork
Last Thursday at 11:00 AM

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Taylor McDaniel of Taylor Sweep to share how a side gig turned into a full-time business and a growing mission to help people facing difficult circumstances.

After 22 years working in healthcare, Taylor found a new path through house cleaning. But she soon discovered she could do even more by helping people who couldn't afford the cleaning and household support they desperately needed.

From organizing community-sponsored cleaning hours to transforming a local veteran's home before his return from rehabilitation, Taylor's compassion is inspiring.

✨ Di...


Murder, Mystery & Comedy! Sterling High School Presents Clock Struck 12 🎭
Murder, Mystery & Comedy! Sterling High School Presents Clock Struck 12 🎭 episode artwork
Last Wednesday at 9:00 PM

🔎 Murder, Mystery, and Laughs! Sterling High School Presents The Clock Strikes 12

Get ready for a Halloween-season mystery with a comedic twist! 🎭 On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Lydia Langley, Trinity Pankey, and Harper Johnson from the Sterling High School Theatre Program to talk about their upcoming fall production, The Clock Strikes 12.

This murder mystery comedy features suspicious characters, unexpected twists, physical comedy, and plenty of laughs. The cast shares what audiences can expect, how rehearsals are going, the characters they play, and why being part of a small, close-knit theatre cast m...


Domestic Violence Awareness: Survivor Stories, Support & Local Resources
Domestic Violence Awareness: Survivor Stories, Support & Local Resources episode artwork
Last Wednesday at 11:00 AM

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Jessica Spohn, Casework and Advocacy Manager, and Jill Sanders McFalls, Director of Crisis Services, from the YWCA of the Sauk Valley to discuss Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the resources available to survivors throughout Lee and Whiteside counties.

Learn how the YWCA provides emergency shelter, legal advocacy, counseling, casework, prevention services, and 24/7 crisis support for individuals experiencing domestic violence. Jessica and Jill also share information about the Beyond the Branches traveling exhibit, survivor stories, the Tree of Hope, and local businesses participating in October's awareness campaign...


Nourish the Journey 5K: Celebrating Breastfeeding, Family & Community Support
Nourish the Journey 5K: Celebrating Breastfeeding, Family & Community Support episode artwork
Last Tuesday at 9:00 PM

Join host Kierstyn Long on Along the Rock, brought to you by the Radar Free Press, as she welcomes Gwen Strum from OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center to discuss the Nourish the Journey 5K Walk!

This special community event celebrates the unique journeys of families who breastfeed or provide breast milk for their children while recognizing the friends, family members, and caregivers who offer support along the way.

Gwen shares how the walk helps families feel connected, why postpartum support is so important, and what participants can look forward to this year, including a community...


Pumpkins, Jack-o’-Lanterns & Halloween Horticulture! 🎃 Part 1
Pumpkins, Jack-o’-Lanterns & Halloween Horticulture! 🎃 Part 1 episode artwork
Last Tuesday at 11:00 AM

🎃 Along the Rock: Pumpkins, Halloween Traditions & the Surprising History of Jack-o’-Lanterns!

Why did people originally carve turnips instead of pumpkins for Halloween? And what does it take to grow the perfect pumpkin? 🌱

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Bruce J. Black from the University of Illinois Extension for a fall-themed conversation about pumpkin growing, horticulture, and the fascinating history behind Halloween traditions.

🎃 In this episode:

🌱 Learn how pumpkins grow and how pollination helps turn flowers into fruit.

🍂 Discover Illinois’ connection to pumpkin production and why Morton is k...


Rocky Horror Picture Show Returns to Dixon! Live Shadow Cast, Costumes & Halloween Fun
Rocky Horror Picture Show Returns to Dixon! Live Shadow Cast, Costumes & Halloween Fun episode artwork
10/12/2026

Get ready to do the Time Warp again! 🎃

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Holly Vrhel and Kaitlin Haley from Mosaic Theater Troupe and Tori Highley from The Dixon: Historic Theatre to talk about the return of the Rocky Horror Picture Show live shadow cast!

Learn what makes a shadow cast such a unique experience, how audiences can join in the fun, and what newcomers can expect from this interactive Halloween-season tradition. The team also shares details about pre-show games, the costume contest, prop bags, a limited-edition Midnight Deb...


Online Banking vs. Going to the Bank: Which Is Better?
Online Banking vs. Going to the Bank: Which Is Better? episode artwork
10/12/2026

Online banking has changed the way we manage our money! ☕💳

On this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman celebrate World Online Banking Day by discussing the convenience of digital banking and how it has transformed personal finances.

From checking account balances and tracking pending transactions to depositing checks with a few pictures, online banking makes it easier than ever to stay on top of your money. But does that mean visiting your local bank is a thing of the past?

Quinn and Emily share their experiences with mobile banki...


Rock Falls UTV & Golf Cart Halloween Spooktacular! 🎃👻
Rock Falls UTV & Golf Cart Halloween Spooktacular! 🎃👻 episode artwork
10/08/2026

🎃 Light Up Rock Falls for the Halloween Spooktacular Parade! 🎃

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr is joined by Melinda Jones from Rock Falls Tourism to talk about the third annual Lighted UTV and Golf Cart Halloween Spooktacular Parade.

The parade brings decorated UTVs and golf carts to the streets of Rock Falls for a night filled with Halloween creativity, lights, music, costumes, and plenty of fun.

📅 Event Date: October 17
⏰ Parade Start: 6:30 p.m.
📍 Starting Location: Rock Falls High School
📍 Ending Location: Micro Parking Lot in downtown Rock Falls

...


Rambling Days: Explore Dixon’s Hidden Natural Beauty by Car! 🌳🍂
Rambling Days: Explore Dixon’s Hidden Natural Beauty by Car! 🌳🍂 episode artwork
10/07/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Ana Smith, director of the Ruth Edwards Nature Center at the Dixon Park District, to explore Rambling Days and the many ways the community can enjoy Dixon’s parks and natural spaces.

Rambling Days Sunday, October 18
1 to 4 p.m.
Dixon Park District Meadows

Rambling Days gives visitors a unique opportunity to drive through the backcountry area of the Meadows and stop along the way to explore the trails, scenery, and natural beauty. The free event features two routes, volunteers throughout th...


PawPack Pride: Helping Pets and Families in Need
PawPack Pride: Helping Pets and Families in Need episode artwork
10/06/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Krystal Spencer of PawPack Pride, along with Bruce, to talk about the new nonprofit and its mission to help animals and families throughout the Sauk Valley and surrounding communities.

PawPack Pride is starting from the ground up with plans to help families struggling to provide food for their pets, assist with spaying and neutering costs, and provide resources for emergency veterinary situations.

The organization is also working toward obtaining its rescue license, with hopes of eventually developing foster homes and expanding its work to...


Hops on the Rock: 100+ Craft Beers, Local Brewers & Fall Fun in Sterling! 🍻
Hops on the Rock: 100+ Craft Beers, Local Brewers & Fall Fun in Sterling! 🍻 episode artwork
10/05/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Janna Groharing, executive director of Sterling Main Street, to talk about the annual Hops on the Rock craft beer festival.

The event returns Saturday, Oct. 10, at the Sterling Marketplace outdoor farmers market pavilion, featuring 90 to 100 different beers, six home brewing groups, downtown businesses, food vendors, live music, a photo booth, and more.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast or someone who simply wants to try something new, Hops on the Rock gives attendees the chance to sample a wide variety of beers...


The Power of Volunteering: How Giving Back Can Pay Dividends
The Power of Volunteering: How Giving Back Can Pay Dividends episode artwork
10/05/2026

☕ Cash and Coffee: The Value of Volunteerism and Giving Back

On this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman step outside the usual financial conversation to talk about something that can have a lasting impact without a financial reward: volunteerism.

Quinn and Emily discuss the value of giving back to the community, especially for young people. They explore Quinn’s experiences with the Sauk Valley Community College Impact Program, memorable volunteer opportunities, and how community service can help young people discover their interests and potential career paths.

They also talk...


Woodlawn Arts Academy: Creative Classes, STEM Activities & Kids Night Out
Woodlawn Arts Academy: Creative Classes, STEM Activities & Kids Night Out episode artwork
10/01/2026

🎨 Woodlawn Arts Academy has something for everyone!

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Becky Rich and Sydney Segretto from Woodlawn Arts Academy to explore a variety of upcoming programs designed for adults, children, preschoolers, homeschoolers, and families.

Sydney shares details about Social Seniors, Artsy Tots, preschool and homeschool programs, Full Steam Ahead, the Author and Illustrator class, and Kids Night Out.

From creative projects and crafts to hands-on STEM activities, storytelling, music, and opportunities to socialize, these programs are designed to make learning fun while helping par...


Sterling Schools Implements Illinois' Bell-to-Bell Cell Phone Ban Early
Sterling Schools Implements Illinois' Bell-to-Bell Cell Phone Ban Early episode artwork
10/01/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Dr. Tad Everett, Superintendent of Sterling Public Schools, to discuss Illinois’ new bell-to-bell cellphone law and why Sterling Public Schools chose to implement the policy one year ahead of the statewide deadline.

The law, which takes effect statewide on July 1, 2027, restricts students from having personal wireless devices on their person during the school day. Dr. Everett explains what the law means for students, how Sterling is handling devices such as cellphones and smartwatches, and why the district decided to get an early start.

...


Discover Dixon's October Events: Scarecrow Festival, Chili Cook-Off & Trick-or-Treating
Discover Dixon's October Events: Scarecrow Festival, Chili Cook-Off & Trick-or-Treating episode artwork
09/30/2026

🍂 Fall is in full swing in Dixon, and Discover Dixon has a packed October planned!

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long talks with Jennifer Lang and Lucas Pauley from Discover Dixon about the community events bringing people downtown throughout the month.

🎃 Coming up in Dixon:

🌶️ Ultimate Tailgate
📅 Sunday, Oct. 11
⏰ 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
📍 Bean Blossom parking lot, downtown Dixon
Enjoy a chili cook-off, bags tournament, lemonade, a mobile tattoo shop, and more before the Bears-Packers game.

🍁 Scarecrow Festival
Explore six blocks of downtown Dixon feat...


Dixon Rotary Club Hosts World's Largest Polio Walk
Dixon Rotary Club Hosts World's Largest Polio Walk episode artwork
09/29/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Mary Oros and Tim Kunkel from the Dixon Rotary Club to talk about the upcoming World’s Largest Polio Walk and the local effort taking place right here in the Sauk Valley.

Rotary International has been working to eradicate polio for 35 years, bringing the world within reach of eliminating the disease. While progress has reached nearly 99.9%, the work is not finished. The upcoming walk is an opportunity to raise awareness, show support and help Rotary continue its fight to completely eradicate polio.

📅 Date: October 24
📍...


AI in the Classroom: Balancing Innovation, Student Learning & Responsible Technology Use
AI in the Classroom: Balancing Innovation, Student Learning & Responsible Technology Use episode artwork
09/29/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Ben Sondgeroth, lead regional edtech coordinator for the Learning Technology Center of Illinois, for a conversation about one of the biggest questions facing schools today: What role should artificial intelligence play in the classroom?

Ben explains why AI should be viewed as a partner in learning rather than a replacement for learning. The conversation explores how schools can introduce AI responsibly, the challenges surrounding academic dishonesty, the importance of critical thinking, and why students need to understand both the benefits and limitations of the...


Junior Achievement: Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs, Leaders & Community Builders
Junior Achievement: Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs, Leaders & Community Builders episode artwork
09/28/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Lysa Hegland from Junior Achievement of the Heartland to explore how the organization is helping students prepare for life beyond the classroom.

Junior Achievement of the Heartland is celebrating 70 years of serving communities across Iowa and Illinois. Today, the organization reaches approximately 63,000 students across 24 counties, including more than 1,200 students at 12 schools throughout the Sauk Valley.

Lysa explains how programs like JA BizTown, JA Inspire, Stock Market Challenge, and JA Titan give students hands-on opportunities to learn about financial literacy, entrepreneurship, business, careers...


What Should You Do With Extra Money? Cash Envelope Budgeting Explained
What Should You Do With Extra Money? Cash Envelope Budgeting Explained episode artwork
09/28/2026

What should you do when your budget actually leaves you with money left over?

On this episode of Cash and Coffee, Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman continue the conversation about cash-envelope budgeting and explore what happens when you do not spend everything you budgeted.

Should you roll the money over to the next week? Move it to another category? Put it into savings or retirement? Or use it as a reward?

Quinn and Emily break down the different options and talk about why giving leftover money a purpose can help strengthen your financial...


Lumberjacks, Skillet Throwing & Fall Fun! Selmi’s Family Farm Has It All
Lumberjacks, Skillet Throwing & Fall Fun! Selmi’s Family Farm Has It All episode artwork
09/24/2026

Get ready for a day of lumberjacks, fall fun, and family activities at Selmi’s Greenhouse and Family Farm!

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr talks with Melinda Jones from Rock Falls Tourism and Ranae Smith from Selmi’s Greenhouse and Family Farm about the sixth annual Lumberjack Show and everything happening at Selmi’s this fall.

The Lumberjack Show takes place Saturday, October 3, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Selmi’s. Professional lumberjacks from Lumberjack Enterprises will put their skills on display with log cutting, axe throwing, log rolling, pole cli...


Sauk Valley Friends of NRA Banquet: Supporting Local Youth Shooting Sports
Sauk Valley Friends of NRA Banquet: Supporting Local Youth Shooting Sports episode artwork
09/24/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Dale Hayen and Anna Garcia from Sauk Valley Friends of NRA to talk about the organization’s 32nd annual banquet and how the event supports youth shooting sports and local organizations.

The annual banquet is set for October 10 at the Dixon Elks Club. Doors open at 4 p.m., with dinner beginning around 5 to 5:30 p.m. The evening will include dinner, raffles, games, a 50/50 drawing, silent auctions, and other opportunities to win prizes.

Dinner will include a salad bar, roast beef, roast turkey, ma...


One Decision Changed His Life: Turning a Devastating Crash Into a Mission to Save Lives
One Decision Changed His Life: Turning a Devastating Crash Into a Mission to Save Lives episode artwork
09/23/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Nick and Brennen Neblung from Bobby’s Crash Foundation to share the story behind the foundation and the life-changing crash that inspired its mission.

On September 28, 2025, Brennen was seriously injured in a crash caused by excessive speed. He spent approximately a month and a half receiving treatment between the University of Iowa and Shirley Ryan Rehabilitation Hospital in Chicago and continues to recover from the extensive injuries he suffered.

Now, Nick and Brennen are turning that experience into an effort to educate yo...


Step Into the Old English Fair! Inside Stronghold’s Castle, Camp & Renaissance Festival
Step Into the Old English Fair! Inside Stronghold’s Castle, Camp & Renaissance Festival episode artwork
09/23/2026

Step into a world of castles, costumes, Renaissance-inspired entertainment, and family fun on this episode of Along the Rock!

Host Kierstyn Long sits down with Dr. Danny Pierce, executive director of Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center, to learn more about the history of Stronghold, its mission as a summer camp and retreat center, and the annual Old English Fair.

Located along the Rock River just outside Oregon, Illinois, Stronghold is home to a historic castle built between 1928 and 1929 by Walter Strong, the former owner and publisher of the Chicago Daily News. Today, the property serves...


Run for a Reason: The Valley Apple Cider Run Supports Mental Health in the Sauk Valley
Run for a Reason: The Valley Apple Cider Run Supports Mental Health in the Sauk Valley episode artwork
09/22/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr sits down with Nick Pepper from 7:24 Fitness on the Rock and Andrew Jackson from Sinnissippi Centers to talk about the Sauk Valley Apple Cider Run.

Now in its sixth year, the event brings together a 5K, half marathon, fall fun, and an important cause. The race is a fundraiser for the Sinnissippi Centers CARES Fund, which provides short-term assistance for clients facing needs such as housing, utilities, medication copays, employment, and home or vehicle repairs.

🍎 Sauk Valley Apple Cider Run
📅 Saturday, October 10
⏰ 8 a.m.
📍...


Meet the New Rock Falls Chamber Director! What’s Ahead for Local Businesses & the Community
Meet the New Rock Falls Chamber Director! What’s Ahead for Local Businesses & the Community episode artwork
09/22/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Camryn Johnson, the new director of the Rock Falls Chamber, and Marissa Razo, the Chamber’s program coordinator.

Learn more about Camryn’s journey with the Chamber, her goals for growing membership, and how the Rock Falls Chamber supports local businesses and brings the community together through events.

The conversation also highlights several upcoming events, including a brand-new dinner show experience!

🎭 Rock Falls Chamber Dinner Show
📅 Date: October 22, 2026
📍 Location: The Classroom in Nelson
🎟️ Tickets: $30

The Rock Falls Chamber...


Sherlock Holmes, Senior Showcases & a Rocky Horror Raffle! What’s Next for Stage Left?
Sherlock Holmes, Senior Showcases & a Rocky Horror Raffle! What’s Next for Stage Left? episode artwork
09/21/2026

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr welcomes Ben Lightner from Dixon Stage Left for a look at everything the theater company has coming up this fall and winter.

Dixon Stage Left is bringing The Hound of the Baskervilles to the Jerry Mathysse Theater at Sauk Valley Community College as a unique live radio theater experience. The production features two performers portraying every character while creating the sound effects live on stage.

The conversation also covers the return of Dixon Stage Left's Senior Showcase, featuring a variety of songs, skits, and performances...


Cash Stuffing Is Back?! Why Gen Z Is Going Old-School With Money | Cash & Coffee
Cash Stuffing Is Back?! Why Gen Z Is Going Old-School With Money | Cash & Coffee episode artwork
09/21/2026

💵 Is cash making a comeback?

On this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman explore the surprising return of cash stuffing, an old-school budgeting method that is gaining new attention among younger consumers on social media.

From budgeting binders and labeled envelopes to savings challenges and spending limits, cash stuffing is changing the way some people think about their money.

Quinn and Emily discuss:

💰 How cash stuffing works
📱 Why the trend is gaining attention on TikTok
🧠 How physical cash can change spending behavior
☕ How small purchase...


From Strangers to Sisters: How Generations Woven Is Connecting Women Through Conversations
From Strangers to Sisters: How Generations Woven Is Connecting Women Through Conversations episode artwork
09/18/2026

Three women. Three generations. One shared mission.

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Tasha Garcia, Nerina Human, and Judy Randall from Generation Woven to talk about how an unexpected friendship became a podcast and a growing community focused on connection, authenticity, and personal growth.

Generation Woven brings together women from different generations and backgrounds to have honest conversations about life, growth, relationships, navigating challenges, and finding ways to move forward.

The conversation also explores Coffee and Connections, Generation Woven's free in-person gatherings where women can meet...


Tacos, Wrestling & Fall Fun! Taco Throwdown Returns to Rock Falls | Along the Rock
Tacos, Wrestling & Fall Fun! Taco Throwdown Returns to Rock Falls | Along the Rock episode artwork
09/17/2026

🌮 Tacos, Wrestling & Fall Fun Are Taking Over Rock Falls! 🤼

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Melinda Jones from Rock Falls Tourism and Ryan Zschiesche from ZOWA Live to preview the return of the Taco Throwdown at RB&W Park.

The third annual event is bringing together 10 taco trucks, a taco-eating contest, live wrestling, music, and plenty of community fun along the Rock River.

🌮 Taco Throwdown
📅 Friday, Sept. 25
📍 RB&W Park, Rock Falls
⏰ 4-10 p.m.

Find out how the best taco competition works...


7,500 Varieties of Apples?! The Surprising World of Apples | Along the Rock
7,500 Varieties of Apples?! The Surprising World of Apples | Along the Rock episode artwork
09/17/2026

🍎 APPLE SEASON IS HERE IN NORTHWEST ILLINOIS! 🍎

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Bruce J. Black from Illinois Extension for an apple-filled conversation just in time for fall!

Did you know there are approximately 7,500 varieties of apples grown worldwide, with about 2,500 grown in the United States? Bruce breaks down the fascinating world of apples, from how new varieties are developed to why modern apple trees are much smaller than the 40-foot trees they can become naturally.

Kierstyn and Bruce also explore:

🍏 How long apples can actually be stored...


Fall, Fantasy & Fun Are Coming to Rock Falls! | Fallen Fantasy Fest 2026
Fall, Fantasy & Fun Are Coming to Rock Falls! | Fallen Fantasy Fest 2026 episode artwork
09/16/2026

Step into a world of fall, fantasy, costumes, and imagination on this episode of Along the Rock!

Host Kierstyn Long sits down with Jake Wallin, Trent Johnson, and Jaclyn Sciacero to preview the third annual Fall and Fantasy Fest, coming to Centennial Park in Rock Falls on Sept. 26-27.

The local pop-up Renaissance festival is moving to a new location this year, giving organizers more room to expand the event and bring even more entertainment, vendors, and activities to the community.

🎭 What can you expect?
• Returning favorites like snail jousting and Shakespearean sword...


Step Back in Time: Experience an Old-Fashioned Fall Harvest in Northwest Illinois
Step Back in Time: Experience an Old-Fashioned Fall Harvest in Northwest Illinois episode artwork
09/16/2026

What did harvest season look like before modern farming technology? On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long talks with Katie Lewis from Bos Brothers Historical Farm about the upcoming Old-Fashioned Fall Harvest.

The annual event gives visitors a chance to step back in time and experience traditional farming, crafts, skills, and trades. This year’s show will feature historic harvesting of corn and soybeans, along with demonstrations including rug weaving, quilting, blacksmithing, wood turning, wooden spoon carving, macramé, crocheting and pottery.

Visitors can also see a sawmill, shingle mill, rock crusher, and his...


Turning Tragedy Into Fire Safety: The Hopkins Family’s Mission to Save Lives
Turning Tragedy Into Fire Safety: The Hopkins Family’s Mission to Save Lives episode artwork
09/15/2026

Fire safety starts long before an emergency happens.

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Becca Mayberry of Hopkins Family Fire Safety, Rock Falls Fire Chief Kyle Sommers, and Sterling Fire Chief David Northcutt to discuss fire prevention, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, escape plans, candle safety, extension cords, and other ways families can prepare for an emergency.

Becca also shares the story behind Hopkins Family Fire Safety and how a devastating house fire inspired her to create an organization focused on raising awareness and helping provide important safety...


How Horses Are Helping Kids Build Confidence, Trust & Faith | Sol's Legacy Ministries
How Horses Are Helping Kids Build Confidence, Trust & Faith | Sol's Legacy Ministries episode artwork
09/15/2026

🐴 What if a horse could help a child find confidence, responsibility and hope?

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Tonya Wells, executive director of Sol’s Legacy Ministries, to learn how horses are helping children in the community build confidence, develop leadership skills, learn responsibility and experience the power of trust.

Based just outside Atkinson, Illinois, Sol’s Legacy Ministries uses horses as part of a faith-centered ministry designed primarily for children ages 8 to 14. From horsemanship lessons and Horse-Powered Reading to community visits with miniature horses, the organization creates...


Flock Cameras: What Can Police Really See? Rock Falls Police Chief Explains
Flock Cameras: What Can Police Really See? Rock Falls Police Chief Explains episode artwork
09/14/2026

Along the Rock: Understanding Rock Falls’ Flock License Plate Reader System

How much can Flock license plate reader cameras actually see? Can police track your every move? Who can access the information, and what safeguards are in place to prevent misuse?

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr sits down with Rock Falls Police Chief Ryan McKanna for an in-depth discussion about the city’s Flock license plate reader system.

Chief McKanna explains how the cameras work, what information they capture, how long that information is stored, and why officers cann...


Are You Really Saving Money? The Hidden Costs of “Deals” & Free Shipping | Cash & Coffee
Are You Really Saving Money? The Hidden Costs of “Deals” & Free Shipping | Cash & Coffee episode artwork
09/14/2026

☕ Grab a cup of coffee and join the conversation!

On this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman take a closer look at the hidden costs and psychological tricks that can lead consumers to spend more than they planned.

From free shipping minimums and restaurant app promotions to Amazon Prime and streaming subscriptions, Quinn and Emily break down how the promise of saving money can sometimes encourage us to spend more.

☕ In this episode, they discuss:

• The hidden cost of chasing free shipping
• Why spending $15 more to avoid...