Up on Her Soapbox She may be a founding member of the Handcrafted Soap and Cosmetics Guild, but Rockford native Lynnel Olson got into soap making for entirely practical reasons. Thirty years ago, when she was married to her first husband, Gary, Lynnel was a farm wife looking to save money. She decided to make soap. “It didn’t turn out,” ...

For over 20 years, these Oregon soap makers have maintained success by doing what they love: helping people. ...

As it follows the Rock River southward, Illinois Route 2 winds its way through scenic landscapes, cute towns and unique attractions just waiting to be discovered. ...

Check out these unusual and inventive stores around our area. ...

If your idea of holiday shopping is buying what a robot thinks you want, you’re missing out. Call us old-fashioned, but we think there’s something irresistible about locally owned stores. So, we tracked down a few ideas to help you get started. ...

Holiday shopping doesn't have to be a chore. Make it an adventure by exploring six trendy local boutiques and dozens of suggestions for wonderful gifts found at locally owned stores throughout our area. ...

Think it's too hard to find locally owned stores to buy from? We respectfully disagree. Not only is "shopping local" good for our local economy, it's a lot more fun than getting trampled at a big-box store. Janine Pumilia discovers dozens of great destinations. ...

This squeaky clean business has developed a strong following by providing a niche product that's good for people and for the world around us. Learn how this former farm wife has found success by doing what she loves. ...