
Hosted by The Radar Free Press · EN

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 worksWhy the system is based on your name, not your propertyWhat to do if you receive an alertCommon misconceptions about property fraud notificationsHow to sign up for the free serviceFor more information or to register for Property Fraud Alert, visit:https://whitesidecountyil.gov/285/Recorder---Land-RecordsQuestions? 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 – Introduction00:38 – Is Property Fraud Becoming a Bigger Concern?01:10 – The History of the Property Fraud Alert Program01:34 – How to Sign Up for Property Fraud Alerts02:00 – Understanding What the Alert Actually Tracks02:55 – An Alert Does Not Mean Fraud Happened03:27 – How Quickly Notifications Arrive & What To Do Next04:53 – Common Names and False Alarms05:42 – What the Recorder’s Office Can and Cannot Do06:27 – Property Fraud Alerts Do Not Stop Documents From Being Recorded07:14 – How Documents Are Reviewed Under Illinois Law08:23 – How to Contact the Whiteside County Recorder’s Office09:09 – ClosingCheck out The Radar Free Press and Follow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #WhitesideCounty #PropertyFraudAlert #PropertyProtection #IdentityProtection #RealEstateFraud #ConsumerAwareness #IllinoisNews #IllinoisCommunities #LocalGovernment #CommunityResources #WhitesideCountyRecorder #FraudPrevention #KnowYourRights

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 Winners0:25 – Bringing the award-winning burgers to Along the Rock0:48 – What makes the Shamrock Pub burgers stand out1:13 – Fresh beef, handmade patties and quality ingredients2:08 – Why customers notice the difference in homemade food2:32 – Sampling the Shamrock Burger and other favorites3:01 – The famous double half-pound burger challenge3:38 – Favorite burgers: Olive Burger, Yankee Clipper & Shamrock Burger4:27 – Homemade sauces, Reubens and what makes the menu unique5:12 – The Shamrock’s legendary corned beef tradition6:01 – Irish Tacos and other customer favorites7:03 – A small kitchen with a big commitment to fresh food8:16 – More than burgers: Chicken strips and other popular dishes8:45 – Finding the Shamrock Pub in Dixon9:22 – Hours, holidays and taking care of employees10:30 – Creating a family atmosphere for customers11:40 – How the Shamrock became a home away from home13:19 – Treating customers like family and building friendships15:02 – Upcoming events: Depot Day and Dixon Airport Car Show16:27 – Supporting Veterans Helping Veterans17:17 – Celebrating the Best Burger award17:38 – Tasting the famous Shamrock Burger18:49 – What makes a great burger: toppings, freshness and flavor19:33 – Final thoughts and where to find the Shamrock Pub20:14 – The contestCheck out The Radar Free Press and Follow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #ShamrockPub #BestBurger #DixonIL #DixonIllinois #BurgerLovers #FoodieFinds #LocalRestaurants #SmallTownEats #MadeFromScratch #FreshFood #CommunityRestaurant #SupportLocal #IllinoisFood #SaukValley #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #HiddenGems #LocalBusiness #FoodAdventure #AwardWinningBurger

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 – Introduction0:22 – Meet Girl Scout Troop 935 and the YWCA guests0:43 – How the “Adopt a Box” project began1:21 – Empowering Girl Scouts to choose their own community service projects2:22 – What goes inside an Adopt a Box?3:17 – Clothing, essentials, toys and items chosen by the troop4:19 – How the YWCA distributes the boxes to families in need5:33 – Positive messages and encouragement included with each box5:57 – Funding the project through Girl Scout cookie sales6:45 – The impact of giving back on the Girl Scouts7:35 – Troop 935’s other community service projects9:28 – Future service projects and continuing to help the community10:20 – Ways the community can support the YWCA11:32 – Fundraisers, donations and community partnerships13:15 – Supporting the YWCA through food donations and the community pantry14:12 – Final thoughts on Adopt a Box and community service14:26 – Closing remarksCheck out The Radar Free Press and Follow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #GirlScouts #GirlScoutTroop935 #AdoptABox #YWCA #CommunityService #GivingBack #YouthLeadership #MakingADifference #GirlPower #Volunteerism #SterlingIL #SaukValley #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #CommunityStrong #LocalHeroes #SupportLocal #CookieSales #NonprofitSupport

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 – Introduction0:22 – Meet Matt Wilkopp from Whiteside County Farm Bureau0:44 – What is the Farm Bureau and how does it support farmers?1:18 – 108 years of Farm Bureau history and community involvement2:04 – Farm-to-Table event returns for its second year2:50 – Recognizing scholarship recipients and supporting agricultural education3:42 – Supporting local FFA chapters and future farmers5:02 – Celebrating locally grown food at Farm-to-Table6:11 – A look back at the first Farm-to-Table event7:19 – The diversity of agriculture beyond traditional farming8:22 – Ag in the Classroom: Connecting students with agriculture9:29 – Farm Camp and hands-on learning opportunities for kids10:43 – Junior Ag University: Teaching future veterinarians and agricultural leaders12:04 – How to register for Ag programs and upcoming camps13:12 – Could there be a farm camp for adults?13:54 – Farm-to-Table ticket information14:31 – 41st Annual Steak Fry for Agriculture announcement15:12 – How Steak Fry supports FFA, scholarships and ag programs17:32 – Why agriculture impacts everyone in the community18:54 – Steak Fry ticket information and event details19:39 – Other Farm Bureau events coming this summer20:24 – Tractor Drive for Classroom fundraiser21:12 – Whiteside County Fair Dairy Bar tradition22:09 – Final thoughts and closing remarksCheck out The Radar Free Press and Follow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #WhitesideCountyFarmBureau #Agriculture #FarmToTable #FFA #FutureFarmers #AgEducation #FarmLife #IllinoisAgriculture #SupportLocalFarmers #FarmCommunity #AgInTheClassroom #FarmCamp #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #WhitesideCounty #LocalEvents #CommunityStrong #FoodFromTheFarm #IllinoisEvents #RuralIllinois

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 – Introduction0:22 – Why Woodlawn Theatre brought back The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee1:27 – Audience participation and volunteer spellers2:50 – Rehearsals, music and organized chaos3:34 – Building friendships through community theater5:24 – Meet the characters: Rona Lisa Peretti & Doug Panch6:34 – Improv, audience interaction and unique performances every night8:25 – Why no two live theater performances are ever the same10:01 – Favorite moments and challenges of playing each role11:20 – Show dates, location and what to bring12:17 – How to volunteer as a spelling bee contestant13:12 – Final invitation to attend the show13:31 – Closing remarksCheck out The Radar Free Press and Follow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress #PutnamCountySpellingBee #WoodlawnTheatre #CommunityTheater #LiveTheater #Theater #MusicalTheatre #SterlingIL #IllinoisEvents #AudienceParticipation #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #FamilyEntertainment #SupportLocalArts #SummerTheater #ThingsToDoIllinois

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 – Introduction0:37 – What are the Yak Yak Sisters?1:15 – Weekly paddle schedule & weather updates2:20 – How the Yak Yak Sisters began 12 years ago4:01 – Group size, community & post-COVID changes5:40 – Helping beginners learn to kayak safely7:22 – Favorite kayaking destinations beyond the Hennepin Canal8:22 – Blessing of the Vessels tradition9:03 – The Rock Falls Turtle Race story11:14 – Favorite local kayaking locations13:09 – Why the Hennepin Canal is so special15:04 – Supporting runners during the Hennepin Hundred18:23 – How to join the Yak Yak Sisters (it's free!)20:12 – Special paddles, community events & inspiring members21:20 – Meet Nancy: still kayaking into her 90s23:21 – More than kayaking: year-round friendships & adventures26:44 – Final invitation to paddle every Wednesday27:02 – Closing remarksFollow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress#YakYakSisters #Kayaking #HennepinCanal #RockFallsIL #OutdoorAdventure #PaddleLife #IllinoisOutdoors #WomenWhoPaddle #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #RockRiver #KayakLife #ExploreIllinois #NatureLovers #CommunityAdventure

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 activitiesAn Americana theme celebrating America's 250th anniversaryGiant bubble stationsFood trucks and $1 Kiwanis concessionsThe Mayor's Choice Award and other prizesFun for all ages—no artistic experience requiredTeri also previews several upcoming City of Sterling events, including:Movies in the Park featuring Cars on Aug. 7Sterling's annual fall movie night featuring The Wizard of Oz with themed characters and activitiesWhether 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 – Introduction0:23 – What is Chalk the Walk?0:54 – Free art supplies, sidewalk squares & fun for all ages1:27 – Americana theme, bubbles, music & food trucks2:28 – Community sponsors and dedicated city volunteers4:38 – How to register and Mayor's Choice Award5:43 – Food trucks, Kiwanis concessions & affordable family fun6:58 – Sterling's Movies in the Park and upcoming summer events7:51 – Fall movie event featuring The Wizard of Oz8:37 – Final invitation to Chalk the Walk8:55 – Closing remarksFollow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress#ChalkTheWalk #SterlingIL #FamilyFun #FreeEvents #IllinoisEvents #SummerFun #CommunityEvent #Americana250 #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #FoodTrucks #SidewalkArt #MoviesInThePark #VisitSterling #ThingsToDoIllinois

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 fundHow much you should aim to saveWhy starting small is better than not starting at allHow automatic paycheck splitting can help you save consistentlyReal-life examples of unexpected car repairs and medical expensesPractical tips for building financial security over timeWhether 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 – Introduction0:22 – A costly car repair and why emergencies happen1:20 – What is an emergency fund?2:07 – How much money should you save?2:33 – Start small instead of feeling overwhelmed3:18 – Automatically split your paycheck to build savings4:17 – A real-life medical emergency and why an emergency fund matters5:04 – Making saving automatic and building healthy financial habits5:47 – Final thoughts on preparing for unexpected expenses6:09 – Closing remarksFollow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress#EmergencyFund #PersonalFinance #MoneyTips #FinancialPlanning #Budgeting #SavingsGoals #CashAndCoffee #FinancialWellness #MoneyManagement #EmergencySavings #Adulting #FinancialFreedom #RadarFreePress #AlongTheRock #SmartMoney

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 RunWhy was the race createdWhat's new for the 2026 courseHow the event gives back to the communityRegistration deadlines and race-day informationThe Fun Run for childrenVolunteer and sponsor support behind the eventReagan 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 – Introduction0:57 – Reagan Run celebrates its 26th year2:30 – The history and purpose behind the Reagan Run6:04 – What's new for 2026: Petunia Crossing & updated race course10:33 – Registration deadlines, pricing & race day information13:48 – Where race proceeds go and local organizations supported16:09 – Kids Fun Run, scholarships & community volunteers17:33 – Walkers, spectators & race-day atmosphere18:24 – Register online, race shirts & final reminders19:46 – Host shares last year's race experience21:19 – Final thoughts and invitation to participate21:33 – Closing remarksFollow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress#ReaganRun #DixonIL #PetuniaFestival #5KRun #RunIllinois #RoadRace #CommunityEvent #AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #VisitDixon #FamilyFun #RunningCommunity #IllinoisEvents #FourthOfJuly #SupportLocal

How does a community help children heal after abuse?In this episode of Along the Rock, host Kierstyn Long sits down with Jessica Cash, Executive Director and Forensic Interviewer for Shining Star Children's Advocacy Center, to discuss how the nonprofit provides a safe, child-friendly environment for children and teens who have experienced abuse.Learn how Shining Star works alongside law enforcement, DCFS, prosecutors and medical providers to conduct forensic interviews while also offering counseling, family advocacy, support groups, summer camps and other resources that help children and families move forward.Jessica also explains how community members can support the organization's mission through donations, fundraising events and by recognizing and reporting suspected child abuse.In this episode:What a Child Advocacy Center doesHow forensic interviews help children during investigationsCounseling, family advocacy and support servicesSummer camps and support groups for children and caregiversHow the community can donate or host fundraisersUpcoming Shining Star fundraising eventsExpansion of services with a new Ogle County satellite officeThe importance of reporting suspected child abuseUpcoming EventsCulver's Fundraising NightsVisit Shining Star's website or Facebook page for upcoming dates in Dixon and Rochelle.Quarter Mania📅 July 21For event details, locations and updates, visit Shining Star Children's Advocacy Center online.Learn more about Shining Star Children's Advocacy Center:https://www.shiningstarcac.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 Intro & Welcome0:24 Meet Jessica Cash & Shining Star Advocacy Center0:50 What is a Child Advocacy Center?1:28 Why a child-friendly interview environment matters2:13 How children are referred to Shining Star2:46 Counseling, advocacy & support services for families3:30 Summer camps, support groups & ongoing healing4:12 Helping children become survivors, not victims4:51 Supporting parents, caregivers & foster families5:03 How the community can help Shining Star6:28 Upcoming fundraisers & community events7:09 Dixon location & new Ogle County satellite office7:48 What to do if you suspect child abuse8:34 How everyone can help protect children8:43 Final thoughts & why awareness matters9:02 ClosingFollow us on all social media platforms below:https://www.facebook.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.youtube.com/@radarfreepresshttps://open.spotify.com/show/0dOeaVg1JI0ump4iD0rIHkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/along-the-rock/id1773156790https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-along-the-rock-245007958/https://rumble.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.tiktok.com/@radarfreepresshttps://x.com/radarfreepresshttps://www.instagram.com/radarfreepress/https://www.threads.net/@radarfreepress#AlongTheRock #RadarFreePress #ShiningStarAdvocacyCenter #ChildAdvocacy #ChildAbusePrevention #ProtectOurChildren #SupportSurvivors #CommunitySupport #DixonIL #OgleCounty #LeeCounty #Nonprofit #FamilySupport #ChildSafety #TraumaInformedCare #MentalHealth #ForensicInterview #ChildProtection #IllinoisNonprofit #CommunityAwareness