Along The Rock

Season 2, Episode 153 In this episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum talks with Whiteside County Sheriff John Booker about his appearance on the national TV series FBI True and the intense 2017 kidnapping case that gripped the Sauk Valley area. Sheriff Booker served as the incident commander during the investigation — a high-stakes operation that brought together local police, state police,...

Season 2, Episode 152 ✈️ On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum talks with Lindsey Kerr , executive director of Lifeline Pilots , and Peyton Metzel , longtime volunteer pilot and board member. Together, they share how this incredible nonprofit provides free, non-emergency flights for patients traveling hundreds of miles for medical care. From its humble beginnings in Champaign, Illi...

🎙️ Season 2, Episode 151 – What Is LSSI? A Closer Look at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois In this episode, host Kaitlyn Blum talks with Hannah Stingley and Ahleah Lopez from LSSI about how their programs— Youth Works and Project LEAD —are helping students build emotional awareness, prevent substance use, and strengthen community connections. Tune in to discover how early education and local e...

On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum talks with Marisa Guernsey and Elisabeth Henson from Goodwill Industries of Northern Illinois about how the organization goes far beyond thrifting to make a lasting difference in our community. From career coaching and GED programs to veteran employment services and disability support, Goodwill empowers individuals across Northern Illinois to o...

Season 2, Episode 149 Host Kaitlyn Blum talks with Kyle Ferrebee about the Reagan Boyhood Home in Dixon, Illinois — where local preservation meets national legacy. From community restoration in the 1980s to modern youth engagement programs, learn how this site keeps Ronald Reagan’s story and values alive for generations to come. 🎧 Listen now: https://theradar.online/along-the-rock-s2-ep-149-prese...

💚 Season 2, Episode 148 – An Unforgettable Anniversary: A Daughter’s Life-Saving Gift When 24-year-old Christi Herbon learned her stepfather, Mike Vaneil, needed a kidney transplant, she didn’t hesitate. Against all odds, they were an almost perfect match — and the surgery changed both of their lives forever. Join host Kaitlyn Blum on Along the Rock for this heartwarming conversation about love,...

The Sterling Public Library is gearing up for its annual Local Author Fair , and there’s something for every kind of reader! 📚 In this episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum chats with Ben Knapp from the Sterling Public Library about what visitors can expect at this year’s event — from mystery and memoirs to children’s picture books and poetry. Hear about the inspiring authors behind the s...

Season 2, Episode 150 In this fun and upbeat episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum sits down with Kelly Hoagland and Sue Farthing from River Country Stomp. Discover how this local line dancing group built a welcoming community through music, laughter, and weekly Thursday night sessions. 🎧 Tune in now and hear why River Country Stomp is about more than just dancing—it’s about connection, c...

In this episode of Along the Rock , host Emma Watts talks with Katelyn Rodriguez and Maggie Wike about a one-of-a-kind Halloween event — the Monster Mash and Costume Party at Rooted Wellness Center in Sterling. This celebration is designed to be sensory-friendly , inclusive , and welcoming for families of all kinds. From a mellow dance party and pumpkin decorating contest to sensory activities and...

On this episode of Cash & Coffee , hosts Kaitlyn Blum and Kayla Tenboer-Sipes share how to get started with budgeting — using just three simple W’s: What you make, Where it goes, and When it leaves. Learn how to track your spending, plan your cash flow, and take control of your finances — one cup of coffee at a time. ☕ 🎧 Listen now: https://theradar.online/cash-coffee-building-a-budget/ #Cas...

Join host Emma Watts on this episode of Along the Rock as she talks with Gwen Strum from OSF HealthCare about Nourish the Journey — a community-focused 5K walk designed to support moms, families, and caregivers. The walk promotes awareness of the breastfeeding journey and celebrates the care, teamwork, and dedication it takes to nurture both moms and babies. Gwen also shares how OSF’s programs — i...

Celebrate fall at the Twin City Farmers Market in Sterling, Illinois! 🍂 On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr talks with Lori VanOosten about the Harvest Moon Festival, a family-friendly celebration marking the end of the outdoor market season. Discover what makes this event a community favorite — from the petting zoo and vendor trick-or-treating to fresh produce, baked goods, craf...

On this episode of Along the Rock , host Emma Watts sits down with Brian and Elizabeth Tribley , leaders of Pink Heals Sauk Valley , to share the incredible story behind the pink fire trucks that have become symbols of love, hope, and encouragement for cancer patients across northern Illinois. Learn how this national movement began with one firefighter’s dream and grew into a network of chapters t...

Season 2, Episode 141 — Building a Better Dixon: Big 4th of July Plans & Community Vision Host Nathan Stahr welcomes Dixon City Manager Danny Langloss to discuss the exciting developments coming to Dixon, including a massive 250th anniversary celebration , new infrastructure, and the importance of teamwork in driving community success. 🎆 Tune in for insights on leadership, planning, and why t...

Part 1 of 2 In this heartwarming episode of Along the Rock , host Nathan Stahr talks with Jason Brown , Heather Wittenauer , and Cami Hartman from Sterling Public Schools about three amazing therapy dogs— Scone , Oxford , and Chuli —who are transforming classrooms and touching lives every day. Discover how these specially trained dogs help students feel calm, connected, and supported. From unique...

🎙️ Fall in Love with Dixon! Host Nathan Stahr welcomes Jennifer Lang and Lucas Pauley from Discover Dixon to talk about the city’s busiest season — filled with witches, scarecrows, parades, and pumpkins! 🎃 Tune in for all the details about upcoming events, the people behind them, and the local pride that keeps Dixon’s downtown thriving. #DiscoverDixon #AlongTheRock #FallPodcast #CommunityEvents #...

In this episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum chats with Ben Lightner , director of Dixon High School’s fall play, Ladies of the Jury . This courtroom “dramady” blends humor, suspense, and timeless themes of justice and equality — all brought to life by talented DHS students. Ben shares why he chose this classic 1920s play, how rehearsals have been going, and why theater is such a valuable...

On this episode of Along the Rock , host Nathan Stahr sits down with Sam Kersey from the Rock Falls Chamber to discuss the exciting updates for two of the community’s most anticipated holiday events: Biz Boo Trick or Treat on October 24 and Holiday Bingo on November 20 . Learn about the new event layouts , fun activities for the whole family , $500 giveaway , festive costume contests , and how the...

Who says the curtain falls at 55? 🎭 Dixon Stage Left is proving that talent has no age limit with their debut senior theater showcase, We Still Got It! Host Emma Watts talks with Jimmy Ferraro and Karen Kaufman about rediscovering joy, purpose, and creativity through performance — and why this showcase is more than just a show. Listen to this uplifting episode of Along the Rock , presented by The...

On this episode of Cash & Coffee , Kayla Tenboer-Sipes and Kaitlyn Blum share a simple, actionable guide to lowering your monthly expenses. Learn how to track your spending, trim recurring bills, reduce subscription costs, and even save on energy — all with easy steps you can start today. Listen in and discover how small financial changes can make a big impact on your wallet. #CashAndCoffee #B...

On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum chats with Brian Diaz from the Rock Falls Police Department and Ben Harvey from the Rock Falls Fire Department about the upcoming First Responder 5K — a community event that brings together local heroes and residents for a great cause. Hear how this collaboration between Rock Falls’ police and fire departments began, what the 5K supports, and h...

Step inside the story of The Shops at Grandon Plaza with hosts Janna Groharing, Executive Director of Sterling Main Street, and Sarah Coyle, founder of Amber and Smoke Botanical Skincare. In this episode of Along the Rock, Janna and Sarah share how this innovative retail incubator project is helping local entrepreneurs turn their dreams into brick-and-mortar realities. Learn how Sterling Main Stre...

👮‍♂️ From Officer to Chief — Sterling Police Chief Pat Bartel joins host Nathan Stahr on Along the Rock to share his journey, leadership philosophy, and vision for the future of community policing in Sterling. He’s joined by City Manager Scott Shumard , who discusses how the City of Sterling and the Police Department work hand-in-hand to build trust and create a safer, stronger community. 🎙️ Tune...

In this episode of Along the Rock , host Nathan Stahr sits down with Staff Sergeant Aaron Geesey and Sergeant First Class Bobby Kibodeaux from the Army National Guard’s 1644th Transportation Company in Rock Falls. They discuss the upcoming Community Day event on Sunday, October 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. , where residents can explore military vehicles, experience hands-on demonstrations, and conne...

S2 Ep 132: On this episode of Along the Rock , host Kaitlyn Blum sits down with Ryan Bivins , the new Police Chief for the City of Dixon. After 15 years with the Dixon Police Department, Bivins shares his vision for leading with purpose, strengthening community partnerships, and promoting a culture of service and empathy. Hear how Dixon PD is preparing for the school year, launching a youth mentor...