The Radar Free Press - News & information for Sterling, Rock Falls, Dixon and the surrounding area in northwest Illinois

Watch the Latest Episodes of 'Along the Rock'

October 7, 2026

Along the Rock: S3 Ep 202-Rambling Days: Explore Dixon’s Hidden Natural Beauty by Car!

October 6, 2026

Along the Rock: S3 Ep 201-PawPack Pride: Helping Pets and Families in Need

October 5, 2026

Along the Rock: S3 Ep 200-Hops on the Rock: 100+ Craft Beers, Local Brewers & Fall Fun in Sterling!

October 5, 2026

Cash and Coffee – The Power of Volunteering: How Giving Back Can Pay Dividends

Interested in hosting a camera at your location in Dixon, Sterling or Rock Falls? Contact us for details on camera hosting and sponsorships!

Latest Stories

November 2, 2023

SVCC Early Childhood Education sees increased enrollment

Sauk Valley Community College (SVCC) has witnessed a significant surge in enrollment within its Early Childhood Education (ECE) program for the fall 2023 semester. The rise in enrollment can be attributed to enhanced accessibility and attractive financial incentives, responding to the critical need for educators in our region.

November 2, 2023

SVCC offers community trip to Beetlejuice: The Musical

Sauk Valley Community College’s Community Education Department invites the public to travel to Chicago for the opening night of Beetlejuice: The Musical on Tuesday, November 7.

November 2, 2023

State Senator Win Stoller and the Illinois Senate Republican Caucus encourages submission of Veteran stories for Veterans Day “Wall of Honor”

Illinois veterans deserve our utmost honor, respect, and remembrance. They dedicated their lives to protect our country, freedom, and others around the world. While we can never do enough for these brave men and women, small tokens of appreciation can go a long way in honoring them and showing younger generations the impact that our veterans have on the fabric of our country and our lives.

November 2, 2023

Sorensen announces funding to lower energy costs for small and rural businesses

Five of the 12 projects awarded to Northwestern Illinois businesses are in Prophetstown, Erie, and Sterling.

November 2, 2023

SVCC pumpkins donated to the Scarecrow Fest

Sauk Valley Community College has contributed pumpkins from its SVCC Ag program to Discover Dixon's Scarecrow Fest, which occurred on Saturday, October 21.

November 1, 2023

Whiteside County child receives magical bookmark from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library

Dolly gifted a special bookmark to seven lucky children worldwide to celebrate the 200 millionth book milestone.

Obituaries

October 6, 2026

Obituary-Susan L. Tyne

She was born on May 23, 1950, in Sterling, the daughter of Filumeno “Philip” and Pearl (Hussung) Bellini.

October 6, 2026

Obituary-David W. Simpson

David Simpson passed away peacefully on September 29, 2026, at the age of 61. Born on November 6, 1964, in Evanston, IL, to William and Joan (Tunk) Simpson, David brought joy, warmth, and love to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

October 4, 2026

Obituary-Sylvia Smoot

Sylvia Smoot, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at The Citadel of Sterling.

October 4, 2026

Obituary-Janice R. Hunter

Janice Rae Hunter, 71, passed away on September 9, 2026, in her home in Prophetstown.