Along The Rock

On this episode of Along the Rock, brought to you by the Radar Free Press, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Dr. Sarah Svendsen from the Autism Center of Illinois in Dixon to talk about supporting individuals with autism and their families.

Since opening in 2023, the Autism Center of Illinois has helped individuals navigate the journey from diagnosis to treatment, building important life skills, confidence, and independence along the way.

Dr. Svendsen shares how the center works with individuals of all ages, celebrates client milestones with graduation ceremonies, and helps families look beyond a diagnosis to recognize each person's potential. She also explains the meaning behind the center's bumblebee logo and the powerful message it represents: don't let a label define what someone can accomplish!

Looking for support or an autism diagnosis?

📞 Call: 815-444-6134

🌐 Website: https://autism-center.com

Learn more about the Autism Center of Illinois and its commitment to helping individuals reach new heights!

👉 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:

00:22 – Welcome to Along the Rock

00:41 – The Autism Center's Start in the Sauk Valley

01:00 – Supporting Families Through the Autism Journey

01:18 – Helping Children Build Skills and Independence

02:16 – Celebrating Milestones and Graduation Days

02:42 – Services for Children and Adults

03:40 – How to Get Started With the Autism Center

04:14 – Understanding Autism and Breaking Misconceptions

05:08 – The Story Behind the Autism Center's Bumblebee Logo

05:58 – Helping Children Reach Their Full Potential

06:53 – Closing Thoughts

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This Thanksgiving, Sterling Township is helping hundreds of local families put a holiday meal on the table! 🦃

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Angie Schneider, supervisor at Sterling Township, to talk about the township's annual Thanksgiving voucher program.

Now helping approximately 400 families each year, this community-supported program provides qualifying households with a $45 voucher to purchase their own Thanksgiving favorites at County Market. From turkey and ham to vegetables and desserts, families can choose the foods that work best for their holiday celebrations.

Angie shares how the program got started, how it has evolved over the past 25 years, who qualifies for assistance, and how generous community donations make it possible.

Plus, learn about additional rent and utility assistance available through Sterling Township and get an update on exciting improvements planned for the township's youth center!

Thanksgiving Voucher Program Details:

• Location: 505 West Lind Boulevard, Sterling, IL

• Sign-up Hours: Monday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

• Voucher Amount: $45

• Eligibility: Sterling Township residents receiving SNAP benefits

• Bring: Photo ID and proof of residency, such as a utility bill

• Vouchers are redeemable at County Market and expire the day after Thanksgiving.

Residents of Rock Falls can also check with Coloma Township for Thanksgiving assistance.

📍 Sterling Township: 505 West Lind Boulevard, Sterling, IL

❤️ A little community generosity can make a big difference. Watch to learn how Sterling Township is helping make Thanksgiving possible for local families!

👉 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:

00:22 – Welcome to Along the Rock

00:43 – 25 Years of Thanksgiving Assistance

01:06 – How the Thanksgiving Voucher Program Works

01:26 – $45 Vouchers for Thanksgiving Groceries

02:31 – Who Qualifies for Thanksgiving Assistance?

02:54 – Helping 400 Families Each Year

03:18 – Assistance Available in Rock Falls

03:59 – Making a Difference for Local Families

04:43 – Community Donations Make the Program Possible

05:24 – Additional Township Assistance Programs

05:43 – Sterling Township Youth Center Updates

06:09 – How and Where to Sign Up for Vouchers

06:32 – Sign-Up Hours and Important Deadlines

06:41 – Thanking Sterling Township

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Emily Kruger, a registered nurse in the Labor and Delivery Department at OSF Saint Katharine Medical Center, to talk about a new community initiative making a difference for local mothers and families: Blessing Baskets!

Created by OSF employees, the Blessing Baskets provide free essential items to anyone in need, including diapers, wipes, feminine hygiene products, baby wash, shampoo, toothpaste, and other personal care necessities. Located at the Mom's Spot at Town Square Center and the OB Clinic at Commerce Towers, this resource is open to the entire community, not just OSF patients.

Emily also shares how community members can donate supplies or make monetary contributions to keep the baskets stocked. Plus, learn about the Mom's Spot support groups, including breastfeeding support, the monthly Moms Group, and Moments for Moms, which provides mental health support and connection.

In this episode:

• What are the Blessing Baskets and who can use them?

• Where to find the baskets and how to access supplies.

• How to donate and help support local families.

• Breastfeeding support and resources for new mothers.

• Opportunities to connect through the Moms Group.

• Mental health support through Moments for Moms.

Every family deserves a little extra support when they need it. Find out how OSF Saint Katharine is helping make that happen!

👉 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:

00:22 – Welcome to Along the Rock

00:29 – Introducing OSF Saint Katherine's Blessing Baskets

00:54 – What Are the Blessing Baskets?

01:29 – Where to Find the Blessing Baskets

02:14 – Who Can Benefit From the Program?

03:11 – Helping Families With Everyday Necessities

03:37 – How the Community Can Get Involved

04:02 – Donations Needed Year-Round

04:47 – Community Response to the Program

05:12 – Breastfeeding and Mom Support Groups

05:48 – Monthly Moms Group at the Mom Spot

06:12 – Moments for Moms: Mental Health Support

06:31 – Supporting Moms Throughout the Community

06:51 – Closing Remarks

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Suzanne Ravlin, CEO of Serenity Hospice and Home, for an important conversation about hospice care, palliative care, and the many ways Serenity supports patients, families, and caregivers throughout the Sauk Valley.

Hospice care is often misunderstood, but Serenity Hospice and Home is working to change that narrative. Suzanne explains why families shouldn't wait until the final days of a loved one's life to explore hospice services and how the organization provides compassionate, around-the-clock support.

In this episode, discover:

• What hospice care really means and some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding it.

• How palliative care helps individuals living with serious or chronic illnesses.

• The grief and bereavement resources available to patients, families, and the community.

• Serenity's specialized pediatric hospice services.

• How Serenity Hospice and Home serves Whiteside County following the closure of Rock River Hospice and Home.

• The eight-bed hospice home in Oregon and its respite care services for caregivers.

• Upcoming programs, including Blue Christmas, Cooking for One, and the annual memorial service.

• How community members can volunteer, donate, and support Serenity's mission.

Serenity Hospice and Home is more than end-of-life care. It's about dignity, comfort, education, and making sure no one has to navigate life's most difficult moments alone.

Learn more about Serenity Hospice and Home and the services available throughout Northwest Illinois.

👉 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

00:34 – What Hospice Care Really Means

02:32 – 24/7 Support and Knowing When to Call

04:52 – Common Misconceptions About Hospice

06:53 – Hospice Costs and Medicare Coverage

08:20 – The Importance of Local Hospice Care

09:36 – Understanding Palliative Care

11:21 – Community Resources and Grief Support

14:03 – Supporting Families and Caregivers

15:09 – Dementia Training and Education

16:23 – Hospice Care at Home and in Long-Term Care Facilities

17:41 – Specialized Services and Pediatric Hospice

19:38 – Serenity Serving Whiteside County

21:22 – Inside the Serenity Hospice Home

22:34 – Respite Care for Family Caregivers

23:23 – Choosing a Hospice Provider

25:52 – Upcoming Events and Community Programs

28:30 – Caregiver Retreats and Volunteer Opportunities

30:46 – How the Community Can Support Serenity

33:39 – Closing

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The holiday season is almost here, and the Salvation Army is getting ready to make a difference throughout the Sauk Valley! 🎄🔔

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Lieutenant Jessica Tosh from the Salvation Army to talk about everything happening this holiday season.

From the return of the familiar Red Kettles and bell ringers to the November 14 Red Kettle Kickoff Concert, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Jessica also shares details about the Joyful Noise youth program, which gives local children opportunities to explore music, creativity, and faith.

Plus, learn how the Salvation Army's Angel Tree program helps make Christmas special for children in need and how you can help ensure every child has something to unwrap this holiday season.

🎁 Here's how you can help:

• Volunteer as a bell ringer at ringforgood.org.

• Attend the Red Kettle Kickoff Concert on November 14 at 3 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church.

• Support the Angel Tree program by selecting an angel, donating toys, or making a monetary contribution.

• Learn more about Joyful Noise by visiting the Salvation Army's Facebook page.

• Call the Salvation Army at 815-625-1622 for more information.

Every donation, volunteer hour, and act of kindness helps make the holidays brighter for local families!

👉 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 – When Red Kettles and Bell Ringers Return

01:28 – How Red Kettle Donations Help Local Families

02:13 – How to Volunteer as a Bell Ringer

02:52 – Red Kettle Kickoff Concert

03:40 – Introducing the Joyful Noise Youth Program

04:15 – Music, Dance and Activities for Local Kids

05:23 – What Kids Experience Through Joyful Noise

05:45 – Who Can Participate in the Youth Program?

06:13 – How to Get More Information

06:46 – The Salvation Army Angel Tree Program

07:30 – How to Help Make Christmas Special for Local Kids

08:09 – The Importance of Giving Back

08:36 – Closing Remarks

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Kalie Conklen from the Penguin Project of the Sauk Valley to talk about their upcoming production of Shrek the Musical Jr.!

Now in its eighth year, the Penguin Project gives individuals with special needs the opportunity to experience musical theater alongside peer mentors. Kalie shares how this year's cast is preparing for the show, the important role mentors play, and the incredible friendships that develop both on and off the stage.

Find out why Shrek was chosen for this year's production, how the performers are progressing through rehearsals, and how the Penguin Project creates opportunities for confidence, inclusion, and lasting connections.

SHREK THE MUSICAL JR. PERFORMANCE DETAILS
📍 Centennial Auditorium

• Friday, November 13 | 7 p.m.

• Saturday, November 14 | 7 p.m.

• Sunday, November 15 | 2 p.m.

🎟️ Tickets: $12 each
Purchase tickets at the door or online at centennialauditorium.org.

WANT TO GET INVOLVED?

Interested in becoming an actor or peer mentor? Visit https://penguinprojectsv.com/ to learn more about the Penguin Project of the Sauk Valley. Follow them on Facebook for registration announcements and fundraising events.

👉 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

00:33 – Why Choose Shrek the Musical Jr.?

01:44 – Actor and Mentor Age Requirements

02:31 – Rehearsal Updates and Preparing for the Show

03:17 – The Important Role of Mentors

04:58 – The Impact of the Penguin Project on Its Participants

06:51 – Show Dates, Times and Ticket Information

07:23 – How to Become an Actor or Mentor

07:58 – Upcoming Fundraisers and Events

08:24 – Closing Remarks

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Karla Belzer from the University of Illinois Extension and Laura Smith from Sinnissippi Centers to discuss Youth Mental Health First Aid and how everyday community members can make a difference in the lives of young people.

Learn how this interactive workshop teaches participants to recognize signs of mental health challenges, approach someone who may be struggling, listen without judgment, and connect them with the resources and professional support they need.

Karla and Laura also explain the ALGEE action plan, share why early intervention matters, and discuss how these skills can benefit parents, educators, clergy, first responders, youth leaders, and anyone who wants to be better prepared to support someone experiencing a mental health challenge.

UPCOMING WORKSHOP:

• What: Youth Mental Health First Aid

• When: Monday, November 30, 2026

• Time: Noon – 5 p.m.

• Where: University of Illinois Extension Office, Sterling, IL

• Cost: $30 (includes course materials and training)

You don't have to be a mental health professional to make a difference. Sometimes knowing how to start a conversation can change someone's life.

Watch this episode to learn how you can become a stronger resource for the young people in your community!

Learn more: Connect with the University of Illinois Extension or Sinnissippi Centers for information about Mental Health First Aid training.

👉 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

00:46 – What Is Youth Mental Health First Aid?

01:52 – Learning How to Recognize and Respond to a Crisis

02:25 – Who Can Benefit From This Training?

03:07 – Recognizing Mental Health Warning Signs

04:18 – Workshop Details and Registration

05:13 – Cost and What the Workshop Includes

06:26 – Interactive Learning and Hands-On Activities

07:57 – Who Should Take the Course?

09:13 – Bringing Mental Health First Aid Skills Into Everyday Life

10:49 – Understanding the ALGEE Action Plan

11:46 – The Steps to Providing Mental Health First Aid

13:04 – Connecting Young People With Resources

14:36 – How Training Can Make a Difference

16:05 – Building Confidence to Support Others

17:26 – Closing Remarks

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long welcomes Nancy Webster, a talented memory bear maker who transforms cherished clothing into huggable memories for families.

Since starting her business in 2011, Nancy has created an estimated 1,000 to 1,200 memory bears, turning shirts, pajamas, and other meaningful garments into handmade keepsakes that help families keep their loved ones close. Her creations go beyond bears, including elephants, monkeys, rabbits, dogs, and personalized pillows.

Nancy shares the heart behind her work, the personal stories that inspire each creation, and how these special keepsakes can bring comfort to families navigating loss. She also discusses her fundraiser bears, which support people facing difficult circumstances, and how her handmade creations have reached families across the country and around the world.

🎄 Want a memory bear for Christmas? Nancy is accepting Christmas orders through November 15, 2026. Standard 18-inch memory bears cost $50, with turnaround times typically ranging from two to six weeks depending on the order queue.

📩 Contact Nancy Webster:
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/memorybearmaker

❤️ Watch to discover how treasured clothing can become a lasting, huggable reminder of the people who mean the most.

👉 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 and introduction

00:41 What is a memory bear?

02:04 Creating other memory animals

02:22 The stories behind the clothing

03:35 Making 1,200 memory bears

05:08 The hand-sewn details

05:43 Helping people through loss

07:24 Memory pillows and other keepsakes

08:10 Pricing and fundraiser bears

10:25 Sharing bears with hospice and nursing homes

11:39 How long orders take

12:30 Sending memory bears around the world

12:50 How to contact Nancy

14:06 Christmas order deadline

15:27 Closing

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🎲 Casino Night for a Cause! | Along the Rock with the Dixon Police Department

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Deputy Chief Chris Scott and Kelly Boos from the Dixon Police Department to talk about Casino Night, a new fundraising event supporting the Dixon Police Charitable Association!

Discover how this exciting evening of casino-style games, auctions, raffles, and refreshments will help fund programs that make a difference for local families and children. From Shop with a Cop and Clothes for Kids to scholarships, youth sports, and community initiatives, learn how the Dixon Police Department gives back throughout the year.

🎲 Casino Night Event Details
📅 Friday, November 13
🕡 Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
🃏 Games run from 7–10 p.m.
📍 Elks Lodge
🎟️ Tickets: $75 per person
🔞 Must be 21 or older

Enjoy roulette, craps, poker, and blackjack using play money, plus live and silent auctions, a 50/50 drawing, and a cash raffle. All money raised supports the Dixon Police Charitable Association and its charitable programs.

👉 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 & Meet Deputy Chief Scott and Kelly Boos

00:51 – Why Dixon Police Are Hosting Casino Night

01:00 – Supporting the Dixon Police Charitable Association

01:41 – How Casino Night Works

02:18 – Playing for a Cause

02:42 – Event Date, Time & Location

03:07 – Casino Games, Auctions & Raffles

04:09 – Who Can Attend?

04:33 – Ticket Prices & How to Get Tickets

05:30 – Where the Fundraising Money Goes

05:55 – Shop With a Cop & Christmas Giving

06:39 – Clothes for Kids, Scholarships & Community Programs

08:27 – Building Positive Relationships Between Police & Youth

09:09 – Event Sponsorship Opportunities

09:35 – What to Wear for Casino Night

10:17 – Closing & Thank You

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📚 Discover Local Authors at the Sterling Public Library! 📖

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Ben Knapp from the Sterling Public Library to talk about the annual Local Author Fair! Discover how this free community event connects readers with talented regional writers, introduces visitors to new books, and gives authors a chance to share their stories and experiences.

📖 Local Author Fair Details
📅 Saturday, November 7
⏰ 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
📍 Sterling Public Library
🎟️ FREE admission!

Ben shares what makes the event special, how many authors are expected to participate, and why connecting readers with the people behind the books can be such a rewarding experience. Plus, learn about the library's writers group, children's programming, and ways to stay up to date on everything happening at the library.

Whether you're an avid reader, an aspiring author, or simply looking for something fun to do in the community, this is an event worth checking out!

📱 Follow the Sterling Public Library on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for library updates, programs, and weekly New Book Tuesday videos.

👉 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 & Meet Ben Knapp

00:32 – Discovering Sterling’s Local Author Fair

01:03 – How the Annual Author Fair Began

01:52 – How Many Authors Are Participating?

02:09 – What Counts as a Local Author?

03:11 – The 18-Author Limit

04:03 – When and Where to Attend

04:56 – Is the Author Fair Free?

05:47 – Ben’s Favorite Part of the Event

06:13 – Discovering a Love for Poetry

07:36 – Authors Connecting With Each Other

08:30 – Sterling Public Library’s Writers Group

09:32 – Updates on Children’s Library Programs

10:50 – Find Sterling Public Library Online

11:48 – Closing & Thank You

Check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Radar Free Press⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and Follow us on all social media platforms below:

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