After over two decades of winemaking, August West Wines has officially closed — marking the quiet end of an era for San Francisco’s once-vibrant urban wine scene. The Bayview-based winery, long celebrated as the city’s last commercial grape-crushing operation, announced its shutdown in late July 2025, effectively ending large-scale wine production within San Francisco. Founded in 2002 by winemaker Ed Kurtzman and partners [...]
5 Nebraska restaurant chains that put big brands to shame
Nebraska might not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of major restaurant chains, but the Cornhusker State has quietly produced some of the Midwest’s most beloved homegrown eateries. These five Nebraska-born chains have built loyal followings, long outlasting fads and often outperforming national competitors in flavor, creativity, and community love. 1. RunzaFounded in Lincoln in 1949, Runza has become [...]
DIY Candy Cane Lip Scrub (Holiday Gift + Natural Lip Care!)
This Candy Cane Lip Scrub is such a fun winter craft — quick to whip up and delightfully seasonal. Keep a jar by your bedside or in your bag for smooth, peppermint-kissed lips all winter long! If you love festive self-care and simple handmade beauty, this Candy Cane Lip Scrub is a must-try! It gently exfoliates flaky lips while moisturizing and leaving behind a refreshing candy cane scent. Made with just a [...]
These are the 10 “Sober October”est states in America (hint: not California!)
Every October, millions of Americans take the “Sober October” challenge — skipping alcohol for 31 days to boost their health, sleep, and mental clarity. In 2025, some states are leading the way, showing the highest interest and participation in this growing wellness trend. Using Google search data and survey insights compiled by Boca Recovery Center, here are the 10 states that are the most committed to Sober October in [...]
Legendary Reagan-Era Texas Restaurant Sadly Shuts Its Doors Forever
After more than four decades of serving Houston families, weddings, and countless Sunday dim sums, Kim Son Restaurant, one of the city’s most iconic Vietnamese and Chinese dining institutions, is closing its doors for good. The East Downtown flagship location — open since 1982 during Ronald Reagan’s first term — served its final meals on October 12, marking the end of an era for Houston’s vibrant food scene. Known for [...]
Wisconsin’s 45-year-old hidden gem restaurant abruptly shuts down – a bad sign
A beloved piece of Wisconsin’s dining history has quietly come to an end. Piggy’s Restaurant & Lounge, a La Crosse institution that welcomed guests for 45 years, abruptly shut its doors in late September, leaving loyal patrons heartbroken and wondering what went wrong. The restaurant, which first opened in 1980, was housed inside a historic 19th-century building near the Mississippi River. For decades, Piggy’s was known [...]
