Sarah Soenke
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  • Stories
    • 5280 Magazine
    • Northwest Quarterly Magazine
    • The News-Gazette
    • CU-CitizenAccess
    • The Daily Illini
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Northwest Quarterly Magazine

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Three Generations Celebrate Italian Dining at Franchesco's Ristorante
The Salamone family has spent 30 years serving impeccable food. Discover how these Sicilian natives took their business from a pizzeria to a fine dining establishment.
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A One-Stop Shop for a Healthy, Beautiful Smile
Attractive, pearly white teeth can make someone look more intelligent, compassionate and interesting. Meet a general-practice dentist who helps his patients to maintain that brilliant smile.
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25 Local People Who Inspire
– Jay Sandine
– Kerry Frank
– Estelle Black
– Anne Meyer
​– Beverly Garcia
A Day in the Life of a 13 WREX Reporter
WREX reporter Reuben Jones reacts to breaking news on a daily basis. Step into his shoes as he responds to bank robberies, covers car crashes and digs deeper into stories about homeless students in Rockford.
Major Updates for Byron Forest Preserve
Big things are coming to this small city and its incredible 2,000-acre natural preserve. Discover what new attractions and events are coming, and how your family can experience them.
Dining is Better with a Beautiful View
Life is good when there’s a gorgeous view to accompany a delicious meal. Take advantage of summertime weather by dining at these regional restaurants with al fresco options.
RMTD's 11th Fundraiser is Par for the Course
A day spent on the golf course can yield more than just an enjoyable day on the links. Those who join this annual fundraiser can help to support an essential transportation system.
Business Profile: Muraski Monuments
Changing trends don’t scare this husband-and-wife team. Rather, this pair sees continuing opportunities to help families create a lasting monument to their loved ones.
Imagine the Possibilities in Your Yard
Summer is the perfect time to spruce up your yard. Gather ideas from some of the best local landscape experts on how to rejuvenate the outside of your home.
Our Region's Original Flavors, From Morning till Night
The Old Northwest Territory is home to culinary talent like no other. Make note of these exemplary establishments for the next time you’re craving something delectable.
Raptors: Taking to the Skies in New Ways
Eagles, ospreys and falcons are some of the most creatively adaptive members of the raptor family. Learn how these birds are surviving and where to find them in our region.
​Know Your Neighbors: Jim Cooke
Meet a dedicated park district commissioner and attorney who celebrates St. Charles’ history while helping to build its future.
Wildwood Restaurant: World-Class Dining & Drinks
This upscale dining hotspot in Geneva looks to grow upon 10 years of serving quality, time-tested steak, seafood and drinks.
Raise a Glass to Supporting Local Nonprofits
Artale & Co.’s First Friday wine tastings attract an eclectic mix of wine drinkers. Check out how these events market new bottles and nonprofit causes.
Explore the Riverways of Europe, Asia, Africa
River cruises are quickly becoming a top trend in the travel industry. Allow John Sturm of Lindstrom Travel to explain why this intimate, all-inclusive cruise should be your next big trip.
​Our Amazing Performing Arts Venues
The performing arts venues in our region are beyond impressive. With elaborate architecture and outstanding local performers, we’re lucky to have these entertainment havens so close to home.
Not-to-Miss Mexican Food at Arturo's
This family-owned restaurant has a handle on delivering a fresh variety of tasty dishes. Discover their Mexican staples and experimental additions that will keep you coming back.
Success Stories: CoyleKiley Insurance Agency, Inc.
The experienced and trusted team at Rockford’s powerhouse independent insurance agency made a youthful transition this year. Learn about the new face of this agency and the legacy and it’s inherited.
Success Stories: Ink & Paper
This design-and-print shop in Stockton, Ill., has always let customers’ needs guide its offerings. Hear from the multitalented owner about the store’s 11-year growth.
The Wisdom of Night’s Silent Flyers
There’s no better time to look and listen for our region’s many types of owls. Check out the tips and insight of local raptor experts on where to see them in the Northwest Territory.
Geneva Film Fest Community Expands in 9th Year
Launched as a volunteer-driven celebration, this burgeoning festival is quickly gaining notice among film buffs in Geneva and around Chicagoland.
Know Your Neighbors: Betty Brown
She gave up a career in nursing long ago, but this Elgin socialite and philanthropist maintains a fierce passion for taking care of others.
Success Story: La Bellissima
Quality ladies’ undergarments are just the start at this homegrown Crystal Lake business, where customer service and quality products are the means to providing something that’s just the right fit – literally.
Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra, Driven by Passion
For nearly 15 years, this all-volunteer orchestra has grown through the dedicated passion of its musicians. See what’s still to come in this year’s lineup, which is full of surprises.
Spotting the Hawks
Only a few decades ago, hawks were nearly wiped out, when humans thoughtlessly poisoned them with DDT and other insecticides. Today, these magnificent creatures remind us that adapting to new realities is imperative for survival.
Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center: Music to Rockford's Ears
For musicians and patrons alike, Mendelssohn has cultivated a community of music appreciation in Rockford. Now, its staff is looking to build even more connections with local arts organizations.
Success Stories: Freeport Home Medical Equipment
This Freeport company combines expertise and compassion to best serve the community. Through home renovations and equipment, they aim to make customers’ lives easier.
Light Up the Holidays!
This winter, check out these holiday light shows that are transforming our region’s landscape into a winter wonderland.
Authentic Dining at Bravo Pizza & Italian Restaurant
The family-focused staff behind this Italian restaurant knows how to create a quality, genuine experience. See what’s inspired the wide menu of classic dishes at this popular restaurant’s two locations.
Four Essential Fall Festivals
What’s fall without some outdoors adventures and a celebration of the bounteous harvest? Discover four quintessential Midwestern gatherings that boast plenty of pumpkins, farmsteads, scarecrows and zombies.
Lindy's Landing: Staying Afloat Through Waves of Change
After 50 years in business, Lindy’s Landing is a Wauconda institution, but tradition hasn’t stopped this restaurant from seeking new ideas to satisfy a changing market.
Award-Winning Wines to Try This Season
You don’t have to travel to Napa Valley to enjoy a glass of wine by the vineyard. These Northern Illinois wineries are crafting a reputation for excellence with many award-winning vintages.
Rockford Symphony Orchestra: 80 Years of Playing​
Through 80 years of musical outreach, the Rockford Symphony Orchestra has made itself a staple in the region. Learn more about its long history, the music director behind its recent growth and what’s in store for its anniversary season.
Autumn Drive Showcases Rural Living​
The Woodstock area’s one-of-a-kind fall festival is back for its 28th year, with more than 23 rural destinations. Check out what’s in store for this year’s event and find out what you can discover along the trail.
Dream Destinations For Your Big Day
Whether you dream of a Midwest destination wedding or a hometown setting, our area offers spectacular options. Here, we highlight some of our favorites, and share the experiences of couples who recently said “I do.”
  • Work
  • Stories
    • 5280 Magazine
    • Northwest Quarterly Magazine
    • The News-Gazette
    • CU-CitizenAccess
    • The Daily Illini
    • The Spread
  • Projects
  • About & Resume