In the beginning, perfume in the form of oils belonged to the divine, and rare scents typically sourced from resins were reserved for dedication to the gods. Used in funeral rituals and in cremation with the burning of resinous woods such as cedar, early references trace the use of scents back at least to the Bronze Age. But their legacy may go even further into the past, writes…

Chicago Pride Fest (June 21-22, 2025) - Each year, more than 100,000 revelers flock to the historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood of Northalsted to take part in the festivities, including three stages with live music, more than 100 arts and crafts vendors, food from local restaurants, drag shows, dance performances, a high-heel race, and more. This year’s headlining artists include Natasha Bedingfield, JoJo Siwa, Sapphira Cristál, Bob the Drag Queen, Amber Riley, and more across two stages.  Photo courtesy of the Chicago Pride Festival Argyle Night Market (Every Thursday from July 3 - August 28, 2025)

Is this small Arizona town the next Napa? Source: Phoenix New Times

The 22 Best Pizza Places in New York Right Now

Luxury hotel offers rooftop views, elegance & Southern charm Hotel Bourré Bonne officially opened its doors at 143 W. Market St. this month. The $75 million, five-story hotel features 168 rooms and two upmarket restaurants, Steakhouse Bourré Bonne and the Rooftop Bourré Bonne bar and restaurant. Photo courtesy of Hotel Bourré Bonne The hotel, which is part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, is a luxurious new addition to Louisville’s hospitality scene, designed to reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant future. Guests can enjoy elevated guestrooms, over 11,000 square feet of flexible ballroom space with sweeping city views, an indoor/outdoor bar and lounge, a state-of-the-art fitness center with a juice bar, and two standout dining venues operated by…

Bourbon City commemorates its signature drink culminating on National Bourbon Day Set down your Mint Julep, because it’s time to celebrate Louisville’s official cocktail, the Old Fashioned. Proclaimed the city’s official cocktail in 2015 by former Mayor Greg Fischer, Old Fashioned Fortnight highlights the posh and stately Pendennis Club's original during the first two weeks of June via events, tastings, and specials. Kicking off on June 1, the anniversary of Kentucky’s statehood, and culminating on National Bourbon Day, June 14, the fortnight of festivities underscores Louisville’s whiskey history and booming bourbon culture.

 Dolly Parton’s East Tennessee theme park, Dollywood is recognized for its live entertainment, world-class rides, incredible guest service, and tributes to the traditions and culture of the Great Smoky Mountains. As part of that commitment to heritage, the park showcases Southern and Appalachian cuisine. Instead of simply offering traditional amusement park fare, Dollywood makes an extra effort to serve high-quality options that range from family-style comfort foods to unique items created especially for its various seasonal festivals. As part of its ongoing commitment to bringing guests the best dining experiences, Dollywood has debuted a new restaurant this spring for its 40th anniversary season.

By Guest Blogger by Eloise Marie Valadez An innovative collection of fairytales is enlivening the stage at Munster's Theatre at the Center. "Modern Mother Goose," written and directed by the very talented Philip Potempa, continues to May 24 at the theater. The production is a world premiere featuring a blend of popular characters and tales with a twist for the new generation of young theatergoers. In the show, audiences will follow the stories of characters such as Little Boy Blue, The Giant, Little Miss Muffet, The Prince, Humpty Dumpty, a menacing spider and others.

The team at Journeyman, the award-winning craft distillery based in Three Oaks, Michigan, and Valparaiso, Indiana, have been busy planning some super fun events ranging from a free-to-attend children’s camp, a bartending competition featuring some of Harbor Country’s top drinks pros, a chef-driven rooftop dinner, and much more. SUMMER MUSIC LIVE SERIES WHERE: The American Factory, 258 South Campbell Street, Valparaiso, IN 46385 DATE: Every Friday beginning June 6th TIME: 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. CT PRICE: Free to attend DETAILS: Journeyman’s free summer music series is back for its second year at the American Factory.

Esquire Names Best Books of 2025 So Far

The definition of a good wine is as simple as this: Do you like it well enough to pour another glass? Let us help you find your favorite at the Indiana Wine Fair, a day-long event in historic Story, Indiana. Sample the best of Indiana's wines while enjoying live music and perusing the arts and crafts of Hoosier and regional artisans and the offerings of local food vendors.   Photo by Kendal Miller. Featured wineries offer 1-oz samples but also sell glass pours, merch, and bottles for carry out.  Some wineries claim to sell so much to become unable to open their own shops until their inventory is replenished. 

In 1832, at the height of the Georgia gold rush, gold had been discovered on the banks of the Etowah River on land owned by Alfred Minette. As men flocked to work in the mine and others to supply their needs, a small town arose and Minette named it after his firstborn, a beautiful but frail girl named Juliana who had died years ago in South Carolina.

A Norwegian pig farmer may not sound like a femme fatale, but Belle Gunness lured dozens of men to their death and became Indiana's most notorious serial killer. Author  and researcher Jane Simon Amme...

This stunning state on Mexico’s Pacific Coast offers a captivating blend of pristine beaches, vibrant cultural experiences, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, making it the ultimate fall and winter escape. Endless Sunshine and Stunning Beaches Nayarit boasts over 200 miles of Pacific coastline, with golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush mountain backdrops. And no matter the season, the state’s year-round warm climate is a dream come true. Destinations like Sayulita, Punta Mita, and San Blas provide the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, offering everything from world-class surfing and paddleboarding to sun-soaked afternoons under swaying palm trees.

Known as the “Garden of France,” the Loire Valley has a rich and varied gastronomy, garden-to-plate experiences, and unique culinary specialties. From goat cheese to Michelin-starred experiences to traditionally made vinegar to Tarte Tatin, below are some of the many quintessential culinary experiences of the Loire Valley. Auberge du XIIème Siècle (Credit: Marieke Gourdin) In the Loire Valley, more than 170 “Maîtres Restaurateurs” utilize the local produce and ingredients of the region to create their own unique mark on the local gastronomy, while honoring traditional French art de vivre. Les Jardiniers…

Dana Point’s most anticipated wine weekend is almost here! California Wine Festival brings two days of premier wine tasting, gourmet food, ocean views, and live entertainment back to Orange County. The two-day festival will take place on Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa and the Sea Terrace Park, set above the picturesque Dana Point Harbor. Event Details Sunset Rare & Reserve Tasting Friday, April 25 | 6:30 – 9 p.m. Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa Guests will enjoy a sunset wine-tasting experience featuring rare and reserve wines from top producers across California.

Virtue Cider’s upcoming Cider & Cheese Pairing event with Jasper Hill Farm is happening on Saturday, April 19. So head up to Virtue Farm in Fennville, a quaint and charming town that is becoming a major food destination and toast to springtime with an afternoon of farmhouse cider sipping and cheese tasting. Virtue Cider founder Greg Hall will be joined by Zoe Brickley of Jasper Hill Farm, the award-winning Vermont-based cheese farm, are offering a guided tasting of artisanal cheeses and ciders — a perfect spring activity for food lovers, couples and larger groups alike.

Since starting her website, Food in Jars in 2009, Marisa McClellan has written four cookbooks on the subject including Food in Jars: Preserving in Small Batches Year-Round, Preserving By the Pint, Naturally Sweet Food in Jars, and Food in Jars: 140 Ways to Cook, Bake, Plate, and Share Your Homemade Pantry all published by Running Press. They're ideal books for people who love canning but don't always know how to make the most of their homemade goodies. Here are some fun recipes to try. Pesto Makes 1 cup pesto…

Announcing the 2025 Restaurant and Chef Award nominees, as well as the Impact, Lifetime Achievement, and Humanitarian of the Year Award honorees, for the James Beard Awards® presented by Capital One. Winners will be revealed at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on Monday, June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Eliesa Johnson Photography / JBF Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, the James Beard Awards® is upholding its role as the nation's foremost culinary honors by evolving its awards structure. The 2025 Restaurant and Chef Awards is introducing three new categories: Best New Bar, Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, and Outstanding Professional in Cocktail Service.

Oxmoor Bourbon Co. recently announced that they are now an official partner of the world-renowned Kentucky Bourbon Trail® program, offering a new opportunity to explore where Kentucky’s Bourbon history began. A great option for those looking for something beyond the typical distillery tour — and perfect for history buffs — Oxmoor Bourbon Co. in Louisville interprets the story of a Kentucky farm as it transformed along with the state, striving to tell the story of all the people who lived and worked on the land through preservation and education. For more information, visit 

Let's turn on the time machine and travel back 219 years and a few days to March 29, 1806. That's when Congress approved the concept of a “National Road." Signed into law by President Thomas Jefferson, the National Road as it still is known today, was America’s first federally funded highway, designed to connect the Potomac and Ohio rivers and serve as the major path westward for countless settlers eager to discover the opportunities they hoped awaited them on the American frontier. It took five years after approval for the road to be constructed, but it was a big deal when completed.

By Guest Blogger Eloise Valadez. Titanic play takes the stage at Theatre at the Center where a new survivor is discovered during a special show in Munster, Indiana. Actress Leslie Goddard relays the story of Violet Jessop, a cabin maid crew member on the Titanic, in the one-woman show "Violet Jessop: Titanic Survivor" at Theatre at the Center. The play runs through March 30. Jessop, who died in 1971, also survived the sinking of the HHMS Britannic. She was one of the passengers who obtained a lifeboat seat.

Post by guest blogger Eloise Valadez. Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary season. The Andrew Lloyd Webber hit musical "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" opened this monumental season and the show continues through March 30. Courtesy of the Marriott Theatre. The storyline in "Joseph" relays the biblical story of the young dreamer who is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. Joseph is his father's favorite son and his brothers constantly have it in for him. But by the end of the production the tables are turned with the brothers begging to be forgiven by Joseph.

The Most Popular Book Genre In Each State

A Mother-Daughter Love Story in 100 Recipes, Where Every Step of the Cooking Process is an Expression of Love "Umma offers a jaw-dropping master class on Korean home cooking brought to you by a mother and daughter duo whose passion for Korean cuisine comes second only to their devotion to each other. You will love this book and fall in love with the women who made it." Joanne Lee Molinaro, James Beard Award winner and creator of The Korean Vegan. Photo courtesy of America's Test Kitchen/Kritsada Panichgul. America’s Test Kitchen (ATK)

An archaeologist who has excavated a Bronze Age palace in Turkey, a medieval Abbey in England, and an Inca site in Chile, Sarah Hawley has created an extensive underground world where fairies abide. But if you're thinking Tinkerbell, who sweetly waves her magic wand, think again. The fairies in Hawley’s novel "Servant of Earth," the first in a trilogy titled…

By Guest Blogger Eloise Marie Valadez Inspiring and energetic dance works are in the spotlight at Chicago's Museum of Contemporary Art. The 15th annual "Winning Works" program presented by The Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet runs through March 23 at the museum's Edlis Neeson Theater. The program showcases the dances of artists who submitted their works in the annual choreographic competition which spotlights ALAANA (African, Latinx, Asian, Arab and Native American) artists. Five world premieres star on the program which features dancers from the Joffrey Studio Company, Joffrey Ballet Conservatory and trainees.

Guest post by Eloise Marie Valadez. Chicago International Film Festival Celebrates Its 60th Anniversary Chicagoland Area, Film, Movies, Uncategorized Fans of magic, music and fascinating illusions will want to take a seat at Chicago's CIBC Theatre this weekend. The talents of illusionist and Las Vegas headliner Xavier Mortimer will be on display there in "Xavier Mortimer: Master of Illusion" on March 21 through March 23. The performer said he's excited to bring his new show to The Windy City. "It's going to be my first time performing in Chicago," Mortimer said.

JOIN SUSAN WOODS ON MARCH 22nd @ 2028 E 14th ST., Tucson STARTING @ 9:30 AM LARGE CLEARANCE/ESTATE SALE #2 My friend, artist Susan Woods, a designer and artist, is moving and is holding a large estate sale this Saturday, March 22 starting at 9:30 a.m. She’ll be offering  large discounts on selected Art and Design Objects, luxury accessories, silver jewelry, photography tripods, and more stuff! HAPPY AND HEALTHY PRICES CASH ONLY Negotiations always welcome ABOUT SUSAN: Aswoon®/Susan Woods Studio specializes in the design and fabrication of high-end objects d’art, fine art and architectural additions in various sophisticated and reclaimed materials.

Celebrate the timeless elegance of Vienna and the legacy of the “waltz king” on Zicasso’s eight-day 200 Years of Johann Strauss Tour. The 19th-century musical sensation earned fame akin to modern-day rock stars with his infectious melodies and elegant compositions, especially waltzes like The Blue Danube. Immerse yourself in Strauss’s world and that of Vienna’s Golden Age with VIP seating at masterful performances, ballroom evenings, and exclusive access to opera houses and palaces.  Jane Simon Ammeson From guided visits to imperial residences to leisurely walks through Vienna’s charming streets, enjoy Strauss’s enchanting melodies as each day blends cultural splendor with ceaseless indulgence.

Michigan is the Great Lake State – comprised of thousands of acres of woodlands, miles of rivers and streams, more than 11,000 inland lakes (and, of course, the Great Lakes)! More than a century ago, steamers and trains brought vacationers to Michigan to enjoy leisurely summers at the family cottage and over time that grew into the state’s thriving tourism industry. The modes of transportation may have changed, but one thing remains strong –time at the lake – whether that is full time or for shorter, seasonal visits – is a cherished family tradition where memories are made.

As part of their commitment to empowering women through exploration and cultural immersion, Alpaca Expeditions, a Peru-based travel organization, offers the Women-Only Salkantay & Sacred Valley, a 7-Day Tour to Machu Picchu. This multi-day hiking experience, led by only female guides and porters, is limited to women travelers as it follows the Salkantay. It's an off the beaten trek through an ever-changing landscape of stunning panoramic vistas of valleys, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and streams, stopping at places such as Pisac, a town on the Urubamba River known for having one of the best archaeological complexes in Peru and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Picchu.

As a TASTE AWARDS judge, I wanted to share the Award Winners in the VIEWERS' CHOICE categories.  Best Instructional Web Series: The Gingers Kitchen Best Lifestyle Podcast: Wine Road: The Wine, When, and Where of Sonoma County, CA Narsai David Award for Best Food or Drink Radio Broadcast: Wine Road: The Wine, When, and Where of Sonoma County, CA Best Food or Drink Podcast: Wine Road: The Wine, When, and Where of Sonoma County, CA Best Filmed at Home Episodes or Film (The Ale Gambini Award): In the Kitchen with Harry Hamlin…

File this post under Seriously Cute. It's the latest update about the meerkats at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo. This “flower power” mob consists of three juvenile sisters At about 1.5 years old, the meerkats in this flower power mob are still considered juveniles. They were born as part of the same litter at Madison, Wisconsin’s Henry Vilas Zoo, where they were living before coming to Chicago. Their transfer is the result of a recommendation by the Meerkats Species Survival Plan®. This is a collaborative population management effort among institutions within the…

For all but the most avid landscape design devotees, the name Jens Jensen may seem slightly familiar but little more. However his beautifully crafted landscapes in Chicago, Indiana, and Wisconsin endure more than a century after his death. Jens Jensen photo courtesy of the National Park Service. Jensen left his native Denmark and settled in America in 1884 because of his parents’ disapproval of his wife. Starting as a street sweeper for Chicago’s West Park System, he became one of America’s most significant landscape architects. Northwest Indiana

In less than a year, one of Marshall’s most historic yet long-vacant buildings has been converted into an elegant, first-class event space called Venue 19 Zero 9. An extension of Schuler’s Restaurant and Pub, is named for the year in which Schuler’s was founded--1909. The public is invited to view the transformation of Venue 19 Zero 9 at an Open House on Thursday, March 20 from 4-7pm. "We can’t wait to share this newly renovated space with our community and guests," says Sue Damron, President & CEO of…

Guest blog by by Eloise Marie Valadez. Fans of the classic board game Clue will want to take a seat for the latest theatrical production presented by Broadway in Chicago. "Clue," a comedic play based on the Hasbro game and the 1985 film, continues to March 2 at CIBC Theatre in Chicago. Directed by Casey Hushion, the production is a fast-moving show that keeps one's attention throughout. Audience members will delight in figuring out what all the mayhem is about at Boddy Manor. The "Clue" storyline revolves around six characters who are guests at the Manor and eventually, try to piece together this suspenseful whodunit.

By Guest blogger Eloise Marie Valadez. Through the years' The Joffrey Ballet has always offered dance fans works to enjoy, themes to think about and simply beautiful execution to marvel at. Such is the case with the troupe's newest program, "Golden Hour." Wed, Feb 19, 2025 © Cheryl Mann 2025 "Golden Hour," which continues to March 2, is being presented at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. The program "Golden Hour" offers an engaging mixed repertoire blending works that stand out for their blend of beautiful choreography, dramatic movement and plenty of humor at times.

Museums & Attractions The Children's Museum of Indianapolis (the world’s largest!) is celebrating 100 years with an exciting lineup of events, including: Mickey Mouse Clubhouse (Feb. 22 – Aug. 1): Kicking off its national tour in Indy before traveling across the Midwest. Centennial 110-ft Ferris Wheel launching March 15, coinciding with the Sports Legends Experience expansion. Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design (March 22 – Sept. 7): Featuring 60+ original costumes, including some from Black Panther. Take Me There: Peru exhibit opening this summer—fun timing with the 

“a tense, well-plotted mystery with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged . . .” “Something strange happened when Hazel and Kagan showed up. Ava had begun hearing her father's voice so clearly that it sounds like he's crawled inside her head. This isn’t the first time in her life she’s been haunted by his negative commentary. It followed her on the bus when she first escaped and lingered for a few weeks after she settled into life with Sam again.

“In this book, Simone and Inés Ortega offer us a wealth of gastronomic experience and wisdom and it will quickly transport you to the heart of Spain,” writes Ferran Adrià, former head chef of the legendary El Bulli restaurant who is considered one of the best chefs in the world, in the introduction to Spain: The Cookbook (Phaidon Press). “This is a timeless book. When you read it, you suddenly realize the glories of the food in front of you, those that, until now, you've not fully appreciated.

As TASTE AWARDS judge I wanted to share that the TASTE AWARDS have announced the winner of this year's inaugural Anthony Bourdain Lifetime Achievement Award, as well of The Andrew Zimmern Discovery Award. The winning recipient of the Anthony Bourdain Lifetime Achievement Award is José Andrés' WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN, which has done incredible work helping to feed and nourish those in need in conflict zones and natural disasters such as in Puerto Rico, Florida, Gaza, and most recently, during the Los Angeles fires. Having served over 450 million meals, as they describe their services, "Entering our 15th year, World Central Kitchen is still first to the frontlines, providing meals in response to humanitarian, climate, and community crises.

Sazerac is hosting a California wildfire charity program to raise funds for those affected by the wildfires, with proceeds benefiting World Central Kitchen and Another Round Another Rally. Sazerac is offering the opportunity to purchase: -          A single barrel of Pappy Van Winkle 15YO (for the first time ever!) -          A full set of the Pappy Van Winkle Collection (all 6 bottles!) -          One bottle of Eagle Rare 25 (ultra-rare offering!) Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year Bottle. Photo courtesy of Buffalo Trace. Offerings include the first-ever single barrel of Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year Old, a complete set of the Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon Collection, and a bottle of Eagle Rare 25 with 100% of proceeds benefitting World Central Kitchen and Another Round Another Rally charities…

In October 2024, Phoenix Home & Garden opened online nominations in a select number of categories. Those who received the most nominations during the open ballot period advanced to voting in November.  Only local companies are eligible for these awards, which include a variety of home and lifestyle categories. In total, over 12,000 votes were submitted, and Picazzo's came out on top for Best Italian Food! Spring Training Fans Score With Drink Specials at Picazzo's The 2025 Cactus League season opens on Thursday, February 20! Your same-day Cactus League ticket gets you $5 draft beers and $5 house wine at all Picazzo’s locations.