On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr is joined by Sterling Mayor Diana Merdian, Nik Jakobs, Pastor Daniel Swihart of Open Door Community Church, and Pastor Drew Williams of New Life Lutheran Church to talk about the return of the National Day of Prayer in the Sauk Valley.

After nearly a decade, this meaningful community event is being revived with a renewed focus on unity, inclusion, and bringing together people of all faiths and backgrounds. The group discusses the history of the National Day of Prayer, why it matters today, and how local leaders and churches are working together to make this year’s event something special.

This event is open to everyone, whether you practice a faith or not, and is centered on community, respect, and connection.

Event Details

National Day of Prayer – Sauk Valley
Date: Thursday, May 1
Breakfast: 7:30 a.m.
Program Begins: 8:00 a.m.
Location: New Life Lutheran Church, Sterling, IL
Cost: Free and open to the public

Additional Event
Temple Shalom Ribbon Cutting
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Join the community in celebrating a new space that will include a sanctuary and a Jewish cultural and history museum

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Emma Watts sits down with Bruce Black from the University of Illinois Extension to talk all things gardening as spring weather continues to shift across Illinois.

From heavy rains to fluctuating temperatures, Bruce breaks down how these changing conditions impact your garden and what you should be doing right now to keep your plants healthy. The conversation covers proper watering techniques, how to avoid overwatering, and why plant roots need both water and oxygen to thrive.

Bruce also walks through real plant examples, including salvia, dianthus, and tomatoes, sharing tips on planting, handling root-bound plants, and how to encourage stronger root systems. Plus, learn why tomatoes can be planted deeper than most plants and how that can lead to better growth.

Whether you are just starting your gardening journey or looking to improve your results this season, this episode is packed with practical advice you can use right away.

Have a gardening question you want answered on the show?
Email us at: [email protected]

Need help right now? The University of Illinois Extension offers free plant diagnostics with Master Gardeners and Master Naturalists to help you troubleshoot issues in your garden.

For more episodes and local content, visit:
https://theradar.online

Topics Covered:
• Gardening in unpredictable Illinois weather• Proper watering techniques and avoiding overwatering• Understanding plant roots and soil health• How to plant perennials like salvia and dianthus• Tomato planting tips for stronger growth• Identifying and fixing common plant issues

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🎤 Highlights:

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr sits down with Juan and Riley Paredes from Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant in Dixon after the community voted their salsa as the best in the Sauk Valley. The conversation dives into what makes their salsa stand out, from fresh daily ingredients to a commitment to authentic flavors that keep customers coming back.

Juan shares how Las Palmas has built its reputation over more than 16 years as a family-run business, with relatives working both in the kitchen and front of house. The episode also highlights the challenges the restaurant faced during COVID-19 and how perseverance and community support helped them continue forward.

With Cinco de Mayo right around the corner, Las Palmas is preparing for a busy celebration with specials, margarita deals, and limited-edition giveaways for customers. Nathan also gets the chance to try the award-winning salsa, experiencing firsthand the flavor that earned the top spot in the viewer poll.

Cinco de Mayo Details:
Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant
Dixon, Illinois

Date: Cinco de Mayo
Specials:

• Margarita deals, including buy one, get one half off
• Food specials available in-house
• Free limited-edition shirts for customers while supplies last

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Emma Watts goes behind the scenes of two exciting children’s theater productions at the Dixon Historic Theatre.

First, Emma is joined by Katie D., Adalynn R., and choreographer Tori Highley to talk about Finding Nemo Jr. The group shares what it is like bringing the underwater adventure to life, from playing iconic characters like Nemo and Gil to creating fun choreography and special effects that make the show visually unforgettable.

Then, the spotlight shifts to The Little Mermaid, featuring Lilli and Leah as Ariel and Ursula. They discuss the challenges of their roles, from expressive storytelling without dialogue to stepping into a bold villain character, along with some of the most exciting moments audiences can expect on stage.

With vibrant costumes, strong vocals, and creative staging, both productions highlight the incredible talent of young performers in the Sauk Valley area.

Event Details

Finding Nemo Jr.
Dates: May 8 and May 9
Showtimes: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

The Little Mermaid
Dates: May 15 and May 16
Showtimes: 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

📍 Location: Dixon Historic Theatre

🎟 Tickets: https://dixontheatre.com/

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Emma Watts sits down with Maggie Wike from NAMI Sauk Area to talk about Mental Health Awareness Month and the ongoing effort to reduce stigma in the Sauk Valley. The conversation highlights the importance of open dialogue, the impact of sharing personal stories, and how the community can come together to support one another.

Viewers will learn about new and existing resources available locally, including the Connection Recovery Support Group held monthly at the YMCA of Dixon. This peer-led group provides a safe and welcoming space for individuals to connect and share experiences.

The episode also dives into the Well-Rounded program, an innovative initiative offering free activities like yoga, art classes, and community events designed to promote mental wellness and connection. The program has gained recognition from NAMI Illinois for its creative approach to outreach.

Whether someone is seeking support, looking to get involved, or simply wants to learn more, this episode provides valuable insight into how mental health resources are growing in the Sauk Valley.

Learn more, sign up for programs, or get involved:
https://namisaukarea.org

Follow for updates and events:
Facebook and Instagram: NAMI Sauk Area

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🎤 Highlights:

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Star sits down with Gerald Lott and Lauren Metzler from Sauk Valley Voices of Recovery to talk about the purpose, progress, and impact of Cledy’s House of Hope.

This sober living home is more than just a place to stay. It is a structured program designed to help women rebuild their lives after treatment, develop real-world skills, and transition back into independence with confidence. Gerald and Lauren break down how the program works, clear up misconceptions, and explain why this type of support is so important for long-term recovery.

The conversation also dives into the real challenges their residents face, including employment, transportation, and rebuilding confidence. You will also hear powerful success stories that show exactly why this program matters and how it is making a difference in the community.

Plus, learn how YOU can help support the mission, whether it is through job opportunities, donations, or simply spreading the word.

Learn More & Get Involved
Website: https://svor.org

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🎤 Highlights:

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Emma Watts sits down with Jazmin Moore from the YWCA of the Sauk Valley to talk about the return of the 9th Annual Cinco de Mayo Wellness Festival.

This free, family-friendly event continues to grow each year, bringing together local agencies, health resources, and community organizations in one place. The festival is designed to connect Sauk Valley residents with valuable information on physical health, mental health, and overall wellness in a welcoming and engaging environment.

In addition to resource booths, attendees can enjoy food vendors, live music, cultural performances, and activities for kids, making it a fun and meaningful experience for the entire family.

Event Details:

Cinco de Mayo Wellness Festival
Date: Friday, May 8
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: YWCA of the Sauk Valley Parking Lot
Weather Plan: Moves indoors if necessary

What to Expect:

• Local health and wellness agencies• Family-friendly activities and games• Face painting and piñatas• Live music from DJ Kik• Folklórico dance performance at 5:45 PM• Food vendors including Mexi Gummies, Carlos Tacos, Main Squeeze, and MNA’s Cakes

Learn more about the event:
Website: https://ywcasaulvalley.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YWCASaukValley

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🎤 Highlights:

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In this episode, hosts Emma Watts and Kayla Tenboer-Sipes break down the growing trend of buy now, pay later services like Klarna and Afterpay. These payment options promise convenience with four easy payments and no interest, but are they actually helping your budget or quietly hurting it?

Emma and Kayla take a hard look at how these services work, who they target, and why they can quickly lead to overspending and financial stress. From hidden fees and late charges to long-term payment plans with high interest rates, the conversation highlights the risks that often get buried in the fine print.

They also compare these modern payment options to old-school rent-to-own programs and explain why both can end up costing far more than expected. Most importantly, the episode focuses on practical advice to help listeners avoid debt, build better habits, and stay in control of their finances.

If you have ever been tempted to split a purchase into smaller payments, this is an episode you do not want to miss.

What you will learn in this episode:

• How buy now, pay later services really work
• The hidden fees and risks behind “no interest” offers
• Why these services can make budgeting harder, not easier
• The long-term impact of stacking multiple payments
• Simple ways to avoid debt and take control of your money

👉 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:

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

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Nathan Stahr sits down with legendary performer Tony Danza ahead of his live appearance in Dixon.

Known for his iconic roles in Taxi and Who’s the Boss, Danza brings a completely different side of his talent to the stage with Standards and Stories. The live show blends music from the Great American Songbook, personal storytelling, comedy, and tap dancing into one unforgettable night. Backed by a live band, Danza delivers a performance inspired by classic variety shows while creating a genuine connection with the audience.

In this episode, Nathan and Tony discuss:
• The inspiration behind Standards and Stories
• His journey into tap dancing and live performance
• Influences like Frank Sinatra
• How a life-changing accident reshaped his career
• Why intimate venues like Dixon Historic Theatre make performances special

If you are a fan of classic entertainment, live music, and behind-the-scenes stories from a decades-long career, this is an episode you will not want to miss.

📍 Event Details
Tony Danza: Standards and Stories
Date: April 25
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Dixon Historic Theatre, Dixon, Illinois

🎟️ Tickets:

https://dixontheatre.com/

👉 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:

00:23 – Meet Tony Danza

00:35 – What is Standards & Stories?

01:29 – Music, comedy, dancing… and ukulele 🎶

02:08 – Why audience connection matters

02:52 – How he got into tap dancing (at 32!)

04:13 – The story behind creating the show

04:41 – Life-changing ski accident & second chance

06:03 – Love for classic American songs

06:22 – Influence of Frank Sinatra & the Great American Songbook

07:56 – Mixing humor, stories & performance

09:07 – Why a live band makes all the difference

10:14 – His favorite story about his mom & Sinatra

11:06 – Performing in small venues vs big stages

12:40 – His current Off-Broadway play (Broken Snow)

15:04 – Does performing still give him butterflies?

15:27 – Why he still loves being on stage

16:00 – Show details: Dixon performance info

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#Tony Danza interview #Tony Danza 2026 #Standards and Stories Tony Danza #Taxi TV show cast #Who’s the Boss Tony Danza #Frank Sinatra influence #live performance interview #Broadway actor interview #podcast interview celebrity #Along the Rock podcast #Dixon Illinois events #live theater Illinois #cabaret performance show #Great American Songbook #tap dancing story Tony Danza #actor musician interview #Off Broadway play Broken Snow

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Emma Watts sits down with Christy Zepezauer, Executive Director of Woodlawn Arts Academy, to talk about an important but often overlooked opportunity for local families: financial aid.

Woodlawn Arts Academy has awarded more than $290,000 in financial assistance, helping students of all ages access classes in music, theater, dance, and visual arts. Learn how their financial aid program works, who qualifies, and why making the arts accessible to everyone remains at the core of their mission.

The conversation also highlights how support from United Way of Whiteside County and United Way of Lee County helps make these opportunities possible, and how the community can continue to support the academy’s work.

Whether you are a parent, student, or supporter of the arts, this episode provides everything you need to know about getting involved and making the arts part of your life.

Learn More & Apply for Financial Aid:
https://woodlawnartsacademy.com/

👉 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:

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

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