How important is your credit score? It could impact everything from buying a home or car to renting an apartment—and even qualifying for certain jobs.

In this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman break down the basics of credit scores, including what the numbers mean, why lenders care, and how good credit can help you save money through lower interest rates.

You'll also learn:

• What a good credit score actually is
• How credit scores are calculated
• Simple ways to build credit responsibly
• Common mistakes that can hurt your score
• Credit card tips for young adults and first-time borrowers

Whether you're just starting to build credit or looking to improve your financial health, this episode offers practical advice to help you make smarter money decisions.

👉 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 Cash & Coffee: Understanding Credit Scores

00:36 – How Do You Check Your Credit Score?

01:03 – Understanding the Credit Score Range (300–850)

01:44 – Is an 850 Credit Score Possible?

02:10 – Why Your Credit Score Matters

02:34 – Can Your Credit Score Affect Employment?

03:00 – Credit Scores and Interest Rates Explained

03:55 – How to Build a Good Credit Score

05:17 – Mistakes That Can Lower Your Credit Score

06:26 – What Credit Score Should You Aim For?

06:44 – Credit Advice for Young Adults

07:13 – Building Credit Before Chasing Rewards

07:46 – Final Thoughts: Start Building Your Credit Early

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Learn how the Whiteside County Property Fraud Alert program can help protect you.

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Whiteside County Recorder Kendra Kophamer Bush to explain how the county's free Property Fraud Alert system works, what it does, and what it doesn't do.

Although property fraud has become a growing concern nationwide, Kendra explains that the alert system is designed to notify residents whenever a document is recorded in their name. She also clears up common misconceptions about the program, including why receiving an alert doesn't necessarily mean fraud has occurred and why the Recorder's Office cannot stop legal documents from being recorded.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How the free Property Fraud Alert program works
• Why the system is based on your name, not your property
• What to do if you receive an alert
• Common misconceptions about property fraud notifications
• How to sign up for the free service

For more information or to register for Property Fraud Alert, visit:
https://whitesidecountyil.gov/285/Recorder---Land-Records

Questions? Contact the Whiteside County Recorder's Office at 815-772-5192.

👉 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

00:38 – Is Property Fraud Becoming a Bigger Concern?

01:10 – The History of the Property Fraud Alert Program

01:34 – How to Sign Up for Property Fraud Alerts

02:00 – Understanding What the Alert Actually Tracks

02:55 – An Alert Does Not Mean Fraud Happened

03:27 – How Quickly Notifications Arrive & What To Do Next

04:53 – Common Names and False Alarms

05:42 – What the Recorder’s Office Can and Cannot Do

06:27 – Property Fraud Alerts Do Not Stop Documents From Being Recorded

07:14 – How Documents Are Reviewed Under Illinois Law

08:23 – How to Contact the Whiteside County Recorder’s Office

09:09 – Closing

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

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Hungry for one of the best burgers in the Sauk Valley? 🍔

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Stew and Elaine Bruns, owners of Shamrock Pub in Dixon, to talk about what it takes to earn the title of Radar Free Press Best Burger.

Learn how the Bruns have built a loyal following with fresh, never-frozen beef, hand-pattied burgers, homemade recipes and a family atmosphere that keeps customers coming back. They also share the stories behind fan favorites like the Yankee Clipper, Shamrock Burger, Sham Mac, Irish tacos, and their famous house-made Reubens.

The conversation also highlights the Shamrock Pub's commitment to the community through local events, fundraisers, and support for veterans, proving that great food is only part of what makes the restaurant special.

🍔 And don't miss the bonus footage at the end of the video! Stay tuned to watch Nathan and Quinn Stahr go head-to-head in an epic burger-eating showdown to find out who earns the title of burger-eating champion.

👉 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:

0:00 – Introduction: Meet the Shamrock Pub’s Best Burger Winners

0:25 – Bringing the award-winning burgers to Along the Rock

0:48 – What makes the Shamrock Pub burgers stand out

1:13 – Fresh beef, handmade patties and quality ingredients

2:08 – Why customers notice the difference in homemade food

2:32 – Sampling the Shamrock Burger and other favorites

3:01 – The famous double half-pound burger challenge

3:38 – Favorite burgers: Olive Burger, Yankee Clipper & Shamrock Burger

4:27 – Homemade sauces, Reubens and what makes the menu unique

5:12 – The Shamrock’s legendary corned beef tradition

6:01 – Irish Tacos and other customer favorites

7:03 – A small kitchen with a big commitment to fresh food

8:16 – More than burgers: Chicken strips and other popular dishes

8:45 – Finding the Shamrock Pub in Dixon

9:22 – Hours, holidays and taking care of employees

10:30 – Creating a family atmosphere for customers

11:40 – How the Shamrock became a home away from home

13:19 – Treating customers like family and building friendships

15:02 – Upcoming events: Depot Day and Dixon Airport Car Show

16:27 – Supporting Veterans Helping Veterans

17:17 – Celebrating the Best Burger award

17:38 – Tasting the famous Shamrock Burger

18:49 – What makes a great burger: toppings, freshness and flavor

19:33 – Final thoughts and where to find the Shamrock Pub

20:14 – The contest

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

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How can a box of Girl Scout cookies help families in need? 🍪💙

In this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Melissa Morel of Girl Scout Troop 935, Jill Sander-McFalls from the YWCA of Sauk Valley, and Girl Scout Jordan McFalls to discuss the troop's inspiring Adopt a Box community service project.

Learn how the girls used proceeds from nearly 11,000 boxes of Girl Scout cookies to purchase clothing, hygiene items, toys and other essentials for local families served by the YWCA. The conversation also explores the importance of youth leadership, community service, and the many ways residents can support the YWCA throughout the year.

Whether you're a Girl Scout supporter, passionate about giving back, or looking for ways to make a difference in your community, this episode is full of inspiration.

👉 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:

0:00 – Introduction

0:22 – Meet Girl Scout Troop 935 and the YWCA guests

0:43 – How the “Adopt a Box” project began

1:21 – Empowering Girl Scouts to choose their own community service projects

2:22 – What goes inside an Adopt a Box?

3:17 – Clothing, essentials, toys and items chosen by the troop

4:19 – How the YWCA distributes the boxes to families in need

5:33 – Positive messages and encouragement included with each box

5:57 – Funding the project through Girl Scout cookie sales

6:45 – The impact of giving back on the Girl Scouts

7:35 – Troop 935’s other community service projects

9:28 – Future service projects and continuing to help the community

10:20 – Ways the community can support the YWCA

11:32 – Fundraisers, donations and community partnerships

13:15 – Supporting the YWCA through food donations and the community pantry

14:12 – Final thoughts on Adopt a Box and community service

14:26 – Closing remarks

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

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What does the Whiteside County Farm Bureau actually do? It's much more than farming.

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Matt Lillpop, manager of the Whiteside County Farm Bureau, to discuss the organization's mission, its impact on local agriculture and education, and several exciting community events happening this summer.

Learn about the second annual Farm-to-Table fundraiser, how the Farm Bureau Foundation awarded $40,000 in scholarships this year, the return and growth of FFA programs across Whiteside County, and hands-on educational opportunities like Farm Camp and Junior Vet University. Matt also shares details about the 41st Annual Steak Fry for Agriculture, the Tractor Drive for Agriculture in the Classroom, and the popular Dairy Bar at the Whiteside County Fair.

Whether you're involved in agriculture or simply want to learn more about one of the region's most important industries, this episode offers an inside look at how the Whiteside County Farm Bureau is investing in the future of local communities.

👉 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:

0:00 – Introduction

0:22 – Meet Matt Wilkopp from Whiteside County Farm Bureau

0:44 – What is the Farm Bureau and how does it support farmers?

1:18 – 108 years of Farm Bureau history and community involvement

2:04 – Farm-to-Table event returns for its second year

2:50 – Recognizing scholarship recipients and supporting agricultural education

3:42 – Supporting local FFA chapters and future farmers

5:02 – Celebrating locally grown food at Farm-to-Table

6:11 – A look back at the first Farm-to-Table event

7:19 – The diversity of agriculture beyond traditional farming

8:22 – Ag in the Classroom: Connecting students with agriculture

9:29 – Farm Camp and hands-on learning opportunities for kids

10:43 – Junior Ag University: Teaching future veterinarians and agricultural leaders

12:04 – How to register for Ag programs and upcoming camps

13:12 – Could there be a farm camp for adults?

13:54 – Farm-to-Table ticket information

14:31 – 41st Annual Steak Fry for Agriculture announcement

15:12 – How Steak Fry supports FFA, scholarships and ag programs

17:32 – Why agriculture impacts everyone in the community

18:54 – Steak Fry ticket information and event details

19:39 – Other Farm Bureau events coming this summer

20:24 – Tractor Drive for Classroom fundraiser

21:12 – Whiteside County Fair Dairy Bar tradition

22:09 – Final thoughts and closing remarks

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

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Get ready to laugh, cheer, and maybe even spell your way onto the stage!

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Ellen Bentley, Jenna Mingus, and Joel Megill from Woodlawn Arts Academy to preview this summer's production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

Learn why this fan-favorite musical is returning by popular demand, what makes every performance unique, how audience volunteers become part of the show, and why the cast says this hilarious production is unlike anything else you'll see this summer.

Whether you're a longtime theater fan or looking for a fun night out, this free outdoor performance is one you won't want to miss.

📅 Performance Dates:
July 9–11

📍 Location:
Woodlawn Arts Academy Outdoor Stage

💲 Admission:
FREE

🪑 What to Bring:
Lawn chairs or blankets for seating.

👨‍👩‍👧 Recommended Audience:
Ages 13+ due to some mature themes.

👉 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:

0:00 – Introduction

0:22 – Why Woodlawn Theatre brought back The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

1:27 – Audience participation and volunteer spellers

2:50 – Rehearsals, music and organized chaos

3:34 – Building friendships through community theater

5:24 – Meet the characters: Rona Lisa Peretti & Doug Panch

6:34 – Improv, audience interaction and unique performances every night

8:25 – Why no two live theater performances are ever the same

10:01 – Favorite moments and challenges of playing each role

11:20 – Show dates, location and what to bring

12:17 – How to volunteer as a spelling bee contestant

13:12 – Final invitation to attend the show

13:31 – Closing remarks

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

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Discover why the Yak Yak Sisters have become one of the Sauk Valley's most welcoming outdoor groups!

On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long is joined by Karen Miles and Cyndi Muler to talk about the Yak Yak Sisters, a kayaking club that has spent more than 12 years bringing people together on the water. Learn how the group got started, what to expect on a Wednesday paddle, their favorite kayaking destinations across northwest Illinois, and why anyone—regardless of age or experience—is invited to join.

The conversation also covers the club's annual Blessing of the Vessels, its involvement with the Hennepin Hundred ultramarathon, unforgettable kayaking adventures, and how the friendships formed on the water continue year-round.

Whether you're an experienced paddler or have never been in a kayak, this episode may inspire you to grab a paddle and explore the outdoors.

🌊 Yak Yak Sisters
📍 Wednesdays at 4 p.m. (weather permitting)
📍 Hennepin Canal, Route 40 launch, Rock Falls, 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:

0:00 – Introduction

0:37 – What are the Yak Yak Sisters?

1:15 – Weekly paddle schedule & weather updates

2:20 – How the Yak Yak Sisters began 12 years ago

4:01 – Group size, community & post-COVID changes

5:40 – Helping beginners learn to kayak safely

7:22 – Favorite kayaking destinations beyond the Hennepin Canal

8:22 – Blessing of the Vessels tradition

9:03 – The Rock Falls Turtle Race story

11:14 – Favorite local kayaking locations

13:09 – Why the Hennepin Canal is so special

15:04 – Supporting runners during the Hennepin Hundred

18:23 – How to join the Yak Yak Sisters (it's free!)

20:12 – Special paddles, community events & inspiring members

21:20 – Meet Nancy: still kayaking into her 90s

23:21 – More than kayaking: year-round friendships & adventures

26:44 – Final invitation to paddle every Wednesday

27:02 – Closing remarks

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On this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Sterling City Clerk Teri Sathoff to talk about the return of Chalk the Walk, a free family event happening Saturday, July 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grandon Civic Center.

Learn what families can expect, including:

• Free sidewalk chalk and painting activities
• An Americana theme celebrating America's 250th anniversary
• Giant bubble stations
• Food trucks and $1 Kiwanis concessions
• The Mayor's Choice Award and other prizes
• Fun for all ages—no artistic experience required

Teri also previews several upcoming City of Sterling events, including:

• Movies in the Park featuring Cars on Aug. 7
• Sterling's annual fall movie night featuring The Wizard of Oz with themed characters and activities

Whether you're looking for a fun family outing or want to learn more about Sterling's community events, this episode has everything you need to know.

👉 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:

0:00 – Introduction

0:23 – What is Chalk the Walk?

0:54 – Free art supplies, sidewalk squares & fun for all ages

1:27 – Americana theme, bubbles, music & food trucks

2:28 – Community sponsors and dedicated city volunteers

4:38 – How to register and Mayor's Choice Award

5:43 – Food trucks, Kiwanis concessions & affordable family fun

6:58 – Sterling's Movies in the Park and upcoming summer events

7:51 – Fall movie event featuring The Wizard of Oz

8:37 – Final invitation to Chalk the Walk

8:55 – Closing remarks

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How much money should you have saved for an emergency?

On this episode of Cash and Coffee, hosts Quinn Stahr and Emily Zimmerman discuss why an emergency fund is one of the most important financial tools you can have.

They cover:

• Why everyone needs an emergency fund
• How much you should aim to save
• Why starting small is better than not starting at all
• How automatic paycheck splitting can help you save consistently
• Real-life examples of unexpected car repairs and medical expenses
• Practical tips for building financial security over time

Whether you're just starting your financial journey or looking to strengthen your savings, this episode offers simple, actionable advice that can help you prepare for life's unexpected expenses.

👉 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:

0:00 – Introduction

0:22 – A costly car repair and why emergencies happen

1:20 – What is an emergency fund?

2:07 – How much money should you save?

2:33 – Start small instead of feeling overwhelmed

3:18 – Automatically split your paycheck to build savings

4:17 – A real-life medical emergency and why an emergency fund matters

5:04 – Making saving automatic and building healthy financial habits

5:47 – Final thoughts on preparing for unexpected expenses

6:09 – Closing remarks

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Join host Kierstyn Long as she sits down with Nancy Varga, director of the Reagan Run, to discuss one of Dixon's favorite Fourth of July traditions.

Now celebrating its 26th year, the Reagan Run has grown from a downtown revitalization effort into one of the Sauk Valley's largest community races. Nancy shares the story behind the event, how it has evolved over the years, and why it continues to bring together runners, walkers, volunteers, sponsors and families every Independence Day.

This year's race features an exciting new course that includes the newly completed Petunia Crossing pedestrian bridge, offering participants a fresh route through Page Park before finishing at Haymarket Square. Nancy also explains how proceeds from the race benefit local nonprofits, scholarships and community organizations, with more than $400,000 given back over the past 26 years.

Whether you're an experienced runner, a casual walker or simply looking for a fun way to celebrate the Fourth of July, this episode has everything you need to know before race day.

🏃 In this episode:

• The history of the Reagan Run
• Why was the race created
• What's new for the 2026 course
• How the event gives back to the community
• Registration deadlines and race-day information
• The Fun Run for children
• Volunteer and sponsor support behind the event

Reagan Run Information:

📅 Race Day: Friday, July 4, 2026

💻 Register online:
https://runsignup.com/

🎉 Learn more about the Petunia Festival:
https://petuniafestival.org/

👉 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:

0:00 – Introduction

0:57 – Reagan Run celebrates its 26th year

2:30 – The history and purpose behind the Reagan Run

6:04 – What's new for 2026: Petunia Crossing & updated race course

10:33 – Registration deadlines, pricing & race day information

13:48 – Where race proceeds go and local organizations supported

16:09 – Kids Fun Run, scholarships & community volunteers

17:33 – Walkers, spectators & race-day atmosphere

18:24 – Register online, race shirts & final reminders

19:46 – Host shares last year's race experience

21:19 – Final thoughts and invitation to participate

21:33 – Closing remarks

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