Virginia is for lovers, as the long-held state slogan goes–and Roanoke is for train lovers. The city grew up from a small railroad town to the exciting, culturally rich metropolis it is today. Read about how that came to be in my story in Journal & Topics Media Group here. In the photo above, the […]
Virginia’s Blue Ridge is a gorgeous mountain playground with a vibrant mix of cultural arts and historic treasures. The photo above is the towering Roanoke Star, which beams atop Mill Mountain as a symbol of the city’s progressive spirit. Check out my story in Urban Matter Chicago here.
Back in the day, the finest steakhouses proudly cut their meat to order. They served up classic cocktails and hearty sides in an intimate setting with live piano playing in the background. Oh, wait. That’s how the Chicago Chop House still does it after more than three decades in business. Now, under new ownership, the […]
The narrow two-lane road turned from asphalt to gravel, miles off the main highway, and we wondered if we were in the right place. There were no streetlights or billboards, only thick forest, tall grasses and delicate wildflowers. Then we spotted a bright orange sign: Exotic Feline Rescue Center. We had arrived at our destination. […]
Clauss Bakery & Café Rensselaer, Indiana When traveling the interstate highways, dining choices are pretty much limited to fast food and truck stops. We prefer to off-ramp toward small towns in search of eateries that cater to local folk. That’s how we found Clauss Bakery and Café in downtown Rensselaer, Indiana, about mid-way between Chicago […]
The countryside is gorgeous, the eating is divine, and outdoor adventure awaits on water and land in the Highland Lakes Region of Texas. Read my story in Urban Matter Chicago here.
Canyon of the Eagles is a rustic resort and nature park with amenities and cuisine befitting a luxury hotel. That’s what “glamping” is: A glamorous take on the campground lifestyle. Tucked within the picturesque Texas Hill Country is the Highland Lakes region of Burnet County. Canyon of the Eagles sprawls over 940 acres overlooking the […]
