Published Works
From Navy Pier to Niagara: Victory Cruise Lines charts a new course
Victory Cruise Lines returns in 2025 with luxury small ship cruises across the Great Lakes and Canada.
Holy homecoming: How a modest Dolton house became Papal royalty
Discover the story of Pope Leo’s childhood home in Dolton, its impact on the community, and the plans shaping its unique future as a historic landmark.
Patrick (Kane), hat tricks, and high rises, oh my!
After nearly a decade of calling a downtown condo in Trump Tower “home,” Kane sold it, incurring a loss of almost $1.2 million.
Unskilled grill: Stop doing these and start grilling like a pro
Learn the top grilling don’ts to avoid common mistakes and ensure your BBQ is always a success. Tips for ideal grilling every season.
Angel Reese celebrates birthday with a million-dollar Reese-idential upgrade
On her 23rd birthday, Angel Reese celebrates a stellar rookie season and a new $1.3M home in Lemont.
State Street bridge hits pause for a much-needed makeover
The iconic double-decker closes for upgrades, halting traffic and fueling commuter chaos.
Empire’s luxe mansion gets a new king: Barrington Hills property sells
An estate in Barrington Hills, once featured in the hit television series Empire, has been sold.
Clean the river, clean the banks: Volunteer for Chicago River Day
Chicago River Day returns May 10, 2025, uniting the community to restore the Chicago-Calumet River system.
Rain check, Chicago: Can we get a real Spring already?
From sunshine to downpours, here’s why the Windy City’s forecast feels like a reality show you can’t escape.
Naperville: The best of both worlds without the commute
Discover Naperville’s charm with its rich history, lively festivals, and vibrant community.
Cubs & Sox knock it out of the park with epic theme nights
Discover the best theme nights at Cubs and Sox games and make your game day unforgettable with unique giveaways and experiences.
A blooming bonanza: Top tulip festivals you can’t miss
Discover the vibrant tulip festivals at Richardson’s and Kuipers in Illinois, featuring stunning blooms, family fun, and delicious spring treats.
Renovation or demolition: Winnetka’s fight to preserve historic homes
Winnetka debates demolishing historic mansions, sparking tensions between preservation and development.
Small town spotlight: Geneva’s small town charm with modern vibes
Geneva, Illinois offers history, events, outdoor fun, and nightlife – just outside Chicago.
The mirror trading secret: Copy the lawmakers and cash in
Discover how mirror trading lets you follow Congress members’ trades and potentially profit from their financial decisions in this hidden advantage.
A lifesaving bond: How ICE detention couldn’t stop a brother’s sacrifice
Discover the inspiring story of José Gregorio González, granted release from ICE detention to donate a kidney to his brother.
REAL ID deadline approaching: What’s the REAL impact?
The state of Illinois program called REAL ID has left many people misinformed about its requirements before it begins.
Casey, Illinois: A small town where “too much” is just the right amount of quirky
Casey, Illinois, packs giant roadside attractions into a tiny town –proving size really does matter.
The ultimate Easter egg hunt guide: City and suburban edition
A list of Easter egg hunts in the city and suburbs, including adult-only, dog-friendly, and all-ages events.
Kyle Hendricks leaves Cubs for new LA home, new team, and new chapter
Chicago Cubs legend Kyle Hendricks lists his home for sale as he embarks on a new chapter in Los Angeles.
Feasting al fresco: Guide to enjoying Chicago’s patio dining scene
Head outside to enjoy some cool outdoor patios.
Visit a divine masterpiece at BAPS Bartlett
The BAPS Center in Bartlett is more than just a Hindu community worship place. It is an oasis of faith, culture, and community.
Welcome back, winged wonders: How to draw in hummingbirds
Get ready, Illinois! Your favorite little travelers are back, fluttering in to paint the skies with color after a long winter away!
Hemingway’s Chicago roots: The brownstone that launched a literary icon
Discover a piece of literary history with this iconic Chicago apartment once home to Ernest Hemingway.
“Avengers: Doomsday” – a new era of heroes and surprises!
“Avengers: Doomsday” opens a new MCU chapter, debuting fresh faces and sparking questions over missing heroes.
Alinea, a home sale, and new ventures: Nick Kokonas’ recipe for change
Alinea co-founder Nick Kokonas steps back from daily operations to pursue new ventures.
Trump portrait aggravates art controversy in Colorado Capitol
Trump slams his Colorado Capitol portrait as “purposefully distorted,” sparking controversy.
Giada brings gourmet to gaming at new Chicagoland Hollywood Casino locations
Giada De Laurentiis brings her Italian cuisine to Illinois with new restaurants in Joliet and Aurora casinos.
A sports mom’s March Madness insanity
Join a sports mom’s journey through March Madness chaos, family fantasy leagues, and hilarious competition.
Slime on over to the Sloomoo Institute for a goo-making adventure
Explore the gooey fun at the Sloomoo Institute in Chicago.
From Saturday detention to C2E2: “The Breakfast Club” cast reunites
C2E2 hits McCormick Place April 11–13 with panels, workshops, and stars from Lord of the Rings, the Breakfast Club, and more.
Springtime blooms are practically here: Chicago’s flower hotspots to color your spring
Celebrate spring in Chicago with tulips on Michigan Ave and blooms at Garfield Park Conservatory.
Running is hard but cheering is easy at this year’s Shamrock Shuffle
Join thousands for Chicago’s Shamrock Shuffle on March 23, 2025 – featuring an 8K, 2-mile walk, and 1-mile run.
Own a piece of Playboy history – bunnies not included!
Own a piece of Chicago history with a rare opportunity to buy a two-story penthouse in the iconic Playboy Mansion.
Birds of a feather, living it up and finding love at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary
Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary in Lincoln Park offers top birdwatching with 300+ species across 15 acres.
Get your Spring buzz on at the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven at the Nature Museum
The Judy Istock Butterfly Haven at the Peggy Notebaert Museum offers a tropical escape with exotic butterflies and blooms.
High stakes: Chicago’s rooftop gardens are growing more than just views
Chicago’s rooftop gardens transform urban spaces, cut energy use, and boost air quality.
Skip the basic brew – level up your coffee game at TALA Roasters
Learn the art of roasting and brewing at TALA Roasters in Libertyville with classes led by head roaster Keith Lilja.
Remembering Michelle Trachtenberg: A star gone too soon
Michelle Trachtenberg, beloved actress known for her roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” has tragically passed away at 39.
Paczki, please! Where to get the best Paczki to stuff your face on Paczki Day
Chicago celebrates Paczki Day on March 4 with Fat Tuesday pastries – from classic to boozy flavors.
Is the oarfish here to predict disaster or just stir the pot?
Rare shoreline sightings of the deep-sea oarfish – linked to myths and disasters – have sparked renewed curiosity.
Rainforest reality: Brookfield Zoo will launch its gorilla paradise this Spring
Brookfield Zoo’s Tropical Forests exhibit opens this Spring with lush landscapes, exotic wildlife, and a conservation focus.
Navigating gridlock: How Chicago masters the art of real-time traffic updates
Chicago’s traffic system uses cameras, sensors, and GPS – plus agency partnerships – to keep commuters informed and moving.
Smashing Pumpkins’ Corgan’s Lakeview mansion sold to the tune of $2.51 million
Billy Corgan’s historic Lakeview Victorian sold for $2.5 million in December 2024.
Sink or swim: How to master the art of cold water swimming all year long
Cold water swimming with Open Water Chicago boosts health and mood – founder Steve Hernan stresses safety in Lake Michigan.
Trump’s tariff tactics: Protecting America or pushing prices?
President Donald Trump’s trade policies, including tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, aim to protect American industries and address trade imbalances.
Virginia McCaskey: Life shaped by family, football, philanthropy
Virginia McCaskey, longtime Bears matriarch and daughter of founder George Halas, has died at 102, leaving a lasting legacy.
Want to live like Chicago royalty? The Goodman and Armour Houses are for sale
The historic Armour and Goodman Houses are for sale – rare pieces of Chicago’s architectural legacy.
Harmonies and Highballs: Chicago a capella’s Drink ’N’ Sing event
Join Chicago a cappella’s Drink ’N’ Sing event on Feb. 13 at Half Acre Beer Co. for an evening of fun, drinks, and group singing.
Frankly, a steal: Armour hot dog family estate, featured in 1983 movie, sold
The 1912 Suffield House in Lake Forest, former Armour family home, blends vintage charm with Chicago history.
Restore a piece of Chicago history: Harold Washington’s childhood home
The childhood home of Harold Washington, Chicago’s first Black mayor, is for sale – an 1894 greystone rich in political history.
Byte into the future: Where to find (beep) Chicago’s restaurant robots (beep)
Experience Chicago’s dining future with robotic restaurants, blending favorite meals with seamless, high-tech service.
Pass the lime, it’s tequila time! Chicago’s Winter Tequila Tasting Festival
Warm up your Winter with the Chicago Winter Tequila Tasting Festival on February 15 at Welcome to the Farm.
Lincoln Park Zoo’s mustachioed monkeys ready to mingle for Valentine’s Day
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Lincoln Park Zoo welcomes Sal and Feta, a pair of emperor tamarins, as part of a vital breeding program.
Gastronomy and good seats: The perfect pairing of Restaurant and Theater Weeks
Experience the best of Chicago with Theater Week and Restaurant Week overlapping this year!
Trump’s declassification directive exposes JFK, RFK, MLK assassination record
On January 25, 2025, Trump ordered JFK, RFK, and MLK files declassified – fueling hopes for long-awaited answers.
How to be in front row at Super Bowl party at Soldier Field (yes, this year)
Verizon FanFest is bringing the ultimate Super Bowl party to Soldier Field and NFL arenas across the country.
Fin-tastic surprise for June: First dolphin birth at Brookfield Zoo since 2014
Brookfield Zoo announces that Allie, a bottlenose dolphin, is pregnant and due to give birth to her calf this June.
Bird flu deaths at Lincoln Park Zoo lead bird house to close – how to protect your pets
Lincoln Park Zoo closes McCormick Bird House after the avian flu outbreak. Stay informed and keep your furry friends safe.
Extra! Extras needed for major Netflix series filming in Woodstock and Momence
Netflix is casting non-speaking extras for an upcoming show filming in Woodstock and Momence!
Own a piece of the king’s court: Timeshares available at Jordan’s former estate
Own a piece of Michael Jordan’s legacy with the Champions Point estate in Highland Park.
Dear Jon, ice fishing is an experience that brings peace, patience, and fun
Dear Jon, here are some reasons why you should reconsider ice fishing, from modern gear to cherished moments with friends.
Ditch your New Year’s diet at the Wrigleyville Mac and Cheese Crawl on Jan. 25
Get ready for the Wrigleyville Mac and Cheese Crawl on January 25!
Get piggy with it at the 2025 Chicago Bacon Fest this February
Get ready for Chicago Bacon Fest 2025 at Old Crow Smokehouse in Wrigleyville!
Chicagoans ramp up relief efforts for LA wildfire victims
Chicagoans unite to support wildfire victims in Los Angeles through donations, fundraisers, and volunteer efforts.
Robo dinner dash: Ditch the driver, keep the dinner
Meet Coco, Chicago’s new food delivery robot revolutionizing takeout with efficiency and convenience.
The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile is hiring drivers who know how to handle a hot dog
Oscar Mayer is hiring Hotdoggers to drive the iconic Wienermobile across the US as brand ambassadors.
Kamala Harris faces her toughest job yet: Certifying Trump’s victory
Kamala Harris certifies Donald Trump’s presidential election victory in a historic moment of political grace under fire.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says “au revoir” as he resigns
Justin Trudeau will resign as Canada’s Prime Minister on January 6, 2025, ending his progressive tenure.
Quick fix or quick fail? The truth about fad diets
Discover why fad diets can be detrimental in the long term and explore healthier, sustainable weight-loss methods.
Goat-ting rid of your tree: Guide to recycling your Christmas tree in Chicago
Recycle your Christmas tree in Chicago through the annual Holiday Tree Recycling Program.
Furever and ever: UK’s first pet cloning clinic brings pets back
Pet cloning is an emerging biotechnology that raises ethical concerns regarding animal welfare, potential personality differences in cloned pets, and the high costs.
Booze-free mocktails for Dry January? Here are buzz-worthy recipes to make your own
Discover creative and refreshing mocktail recipes that will make Dry January (or any occasion) full of flavor and fun!
Savor without spirits at Chicago’s mocktail hotspots
Explore Chicago’s vibrant zero-proof bar scene with these creative mocktail offerings!
Illinois is getting a new flag for the first time in decades – cast your vote online
Illinois is updating its state flag for the first time in decades, and residents have the chance to vote on the new design.
Big changes are coming to Illinois laws in 2025 – you’ll want to know this list
Stay informed about the upcoming Illinois legislative changes set to take effect in 2025.
Stirring up trouble: The toxic truth about black plastic kitchen utensils
Recent studies have revealed the hidden dangers of black plastic kitchen utensils, their impact on health, and safer alternatives.
Goodbye hunger, hello skinny jeans! Just stick a needle in it
A candid look at Mounjaro and Ozempic for weight loss, emphasizing healthy habits and lifestyle, alongside medication.
Zen or madness? Weird, wacky spa treatments you (might) try
Discover the world of unconventional spa treatments in Chicago, where relaxation takes a unique turn.
Bored of your backyard? RIO’s cards say, “Scratch us for surprises!”
The RIO Adventure Bucket List features 50 cards with hidden gems, seasonal fun, and backyard adventures.
Chicago’s bar scene gets freaky and fabulous at night
Discover Chicago’s most unique nightlife spots, from shuffleboard bars and nostalgic arcades to axe-throwing lounges and whimsical turtle races.
Cold as ice, hot as Hades: Saunas at North Avenue Beach with Fire & Ice Experience
Chicago’s Fire & Ice Experience pairs a wood-fired sauna with a Lake Michigan plunge for a Nordic-style escape.
Droning on and on: Figure it out already!
Uncover the truth behind the media frenzy over mysterious drones buzzing in the sky.
Go Dutch for year-round fun in Holland, Mich.
Holland, Michigan offers a perfect winter escape with Kerstmarkt, Magic at the Mill, outdoor fun, and Dutch charm.
Find cocktails, curling, cocoa flights for holiday dining fun.
Embrace the magic of winter in Chicago with cozy igloo dining, rooftop curling, and decadent cocoa flights.
With music, memories, and millions in bonuses, Taylor Swift bids farewell to her Eras Tour
Swift capped her record tour with life-changing crew bonuses, cementing her music icon status.
Ho ho ho! History for Christmas at Cantigny
Cantigny Park in Wheaton celebrates a French-themed Christmas.
Sleigh bells, schnitzels, and Christmas cheer in festive Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth, Michigan: holiday magic with Bronner’s, lights, and German fare.
Frosted Barrel Dining Experience at Magpie’s in Lake Geneva is barrels of fun
Magpie’s Den & Pen restaurant and Chef Ben Walanka bring upscale frosted barrel dining to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
Twinkle tact: Guide to holiday drive-through lights etiquette
Experience the magic of Chicago’s holiday drive-through light displays! Tips on route planning, etiquette, and capturing the magic.
Big & Bright light display at West Chicago’s Sonny Acres Farm lives up to its name
Family-owned Sonny Acres Farm in West Chicago celebrates the holidays with a light display.
A slam dunk for sports fans: Vintage sports memorabilia for Christmas gift-giving
The La Grange Park Antique Mall has antique treasures and rare Chicago sports memorabilia.
Thanksgiving for the bold, from deep fried turkey to turducken
Where to purchase turducken and deep-fried turkey, and where to dine in for deep-fried turkey.
“Sandwich King” Mauro’s gifts include great recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers
Interview with Food Network’s “Sandwich King” and Mauro Provisions founder, a Chicago-based giardiniera company.
Skip the cluck-ups: Safety tips for deep frying your Thanksgiving turkey
Essential safety tips and gear for deep-frying turkey – prep your equipment, avoid mistakes, and fry safely.
RFK Jr., Elon Musk, Marco Rubio, Matt Gaetz, Tulsi Gabbard among Trump Cabinet picks
Donald Trump nominates Marco Rubio, Elon Musk, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to his cabinet.
Caroline’s Carts: Shopping help for families’ special needs
Walmart announced its intention to provide Caroline’s Carts to all Walmart stores in Illinois beginning January 1, 2025.
Rediscover the joy: The nostalgic return of Toys“R”Us
On October 26 at the Harlem and Irving Plaza in Norridge, Toys“R”Us celebrated its grand reopening, marking its return to stand-alone stores ahead of the holiday season.
Secretary of State starts “Fast Lane” DMV pilot program
Illinois Secretary of State pilot program installs Fast Lane DMV kiosks in select grocery stores throughout Illinois.
Night magic! Arts in the Dark Parade’s tenth anniversary
Marking its 10th year, the Arts in the Dark Parade showcases Chicago’s art scene with 90 entries, 4,000 participants, and dazzling performances.
Wizarding wonders! Harry Potter store opens here in Spring 2025
Warner Brothers is bringing a slice of Diagon Alley to the Magnificent Mile with a new Harry Potter store opening Spring 2025.
Chicago’s treat: Free admission days at city museums
Discover Chicago’s top museums with free admission days for Illinois residents.
Embracing freedom: The rise of the Empty Nesters Club
Navigating the transition to an empty nest can be challenging for parents, but it’s also an opportunity for new adventures.
October in Chicago: Where parades meet pumpkin spice
Discover the best parades in Chicago this October, as the city celebrates its vibrant cultural diversity.
The Creative Quill 