Shamontiel
Shamontiel is the author of Round Trip and Change for a Twenty, and in mid-October became the Chicago Tribune s Digital News Editor. She works on National Travel, Health and occasionally Breaking News, and was the producer for live Health chats and Food & Dining for a few months. Visit Shamontiel.com for more info.
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Education/Experience
DePaul University (grad school), Lincoln University (Bachelor of Arts in English), University of Chicago, Northern Michigan UniversityInterests
Writing, Reading, Web and print editing, Dancing, Photography, Dogs, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Safe sex education, Vegetarian, ComputersMotto
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Celebrity Dating, Tall Men Dating Women Under 5'3Producers turned Jada Pinkett down for the role as Lisa, Will Smith's girlfriend on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." Why? They thought Jada being 5'0 would look odd next to Will Smith at 6'2. Short women, tall men, more common than you may think. -
Knowing when to Agree to DisagreeHave you ever had a discussion with someone who just couldn't leave an argument alone? This person has to be right, and even when you agree to disagree the person just keeps on talking to try to force an opinion on you. -
Top 10 Spots to Kiss in ChicagoAt one of the 10 Chicago spots in this entry, a guy proposed to his girlfriend and got a yes. If you don't want to take it that far (or have already), all 10 spots are great for a smooch. Check them out. -
Why It's Important to Use a Condom During Oral SexAlthough it's less likely than vaginal or anal sex, it is possible to transmit herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, genital warts (HPV), intestinal parasites (amebiasis), hepatitis A, HIV/AIDS from unprotected oral sex. Here are steps to creating a condom dam. -
Does Alexi Giannoulias Have the Youth Vote?After watching the reaction of three boys on a Red Line station when they saw senatorial candidate Alexi Giannoulias, it made me wonder does he have the same connection to the youth as Obama. -
Teaching a Young Man About ChivalryIf you're a mother, do you teach your son about chivalry? As a father, are you comfortable guiding your son through what it's like to be a gentleman? Ladies, do you only date guys who are chivalrous. Let's explore. -
How to Avoid Looking Desperate when FlirtingApproaching someone for the first time can either make you look smooth or desperate depending on your physical mannerisms and flow of conversation. Here are tips on how to avoid looking thirsty and ways to spark conversation. -
Dating a Daddy's GirlA daughter's love for her father or any other male role model in her life is eternal loyalty. When a guy comes into the picture, there may be a bit of adjustment on both parts. -
Clarifying Six Myths About Women Who Don't Want ChildrenAlthough there are mixed reviews about "Sex and the City 2," there was a message that women who don't have or want children enjoyed seeing in Carrie Bradshaw. In this entry, I clarify some of the myths about women who don't want children.
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Eleven Free Dating Ideas by Lake Michigan in ChicagoIn the spring and summer months, the lakefront in Chicago is the easiest and most relaxing place to hang out. Not only is the beauty of the lakefront nice to relax by, but it's also the perfect scene for a first date (or second or third). -
Number of Agnostic or Atheist Blacks IncreasesTLC's Chilli discussed her views on same-religion dating, but how do you feel about dating an agnostic or atheist? Is it out of the question? -
Omnivores Dating Vegetarians, Five Things Not to Do to a Vegan or VegetarianIt takes time to learn the lifestyle of a vegetarian and can be even more challenging when dating one, so here are some tips on what not to do around a vegetarian. -
Reporting Sexual Abuse, Assault and Rape in MarriageYou agreed to marry him and to be in a monogamous relationship, but you didn't agree to be a sex slave. Rape can happen in marriage, and you have a right to report it. Here's how. -
Are Public Displays of Affection Your Thing?Some people love to hold hands, kiss and grope each other in public. Others wouldn't dream of doing these private actions in front of people. Which team are you on and how do you deal with a partner who's the opposite? -
HPV: The Most Common STI for Sexually Active PeopleDoes your school or parent talk to you about the most common sexually transmitted infection HPV? Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) happens to at least 50 percent of sexually active people. Find out how. -
Shopping for Non-latex Condoms, Latex Allergy ReliefOne of the biggest dangers of being allergic to latex condoms is women who choose not to use them at all. Who wants to have sex if you'll be irritated, in pain or uncomfortable the entire time? -
Is a Fist Bump Unaffectionate in a Relationship?Steve Ward, the host of the VH1 dating show, believes fist bumps are for friends, not people in relationships. Agree or disagree?
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How to Get Along with a Packrat or Sloppy RoommateIf you're a neat freak, living with a messy roommate or a packrat is annoying. That person thinks you don't know how to live in a home comfortably. You think the packrat will create roaches or mice. How do you two coexist?
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How to Resolve Employee ConflictYou've tried everything you could to resolve an employee dispute, but you don't seem to be making any progress. When is it time to talk to your manager, Human Resources or someone in upper management?
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Yelling During an Argument, Does it Solve Anything?Everyone is not going to agree with you all the time, but screaming, cursing and name calling don't help much. Learn how to have a civil disagreement by doing the following.
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Review of Hill Harper's 'The Conversation,' Black Single and Married CouplesAuthor/actor Hill Harper wrote "The Conversation: How Black Men and Women Can Build Loving, Trusting Relationships." Check out my 2009 review of the book.
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STD Testing on World AIDS DayYou don't have to wait until December 1st to be tested for STDs like HIV and AIDS, but on December 1st, this would be as good a time as any to start.
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Video Girl Alert, is Your Female Relative Addicted to Flashy Lifestyles?Do you have a relative or friend who never seems to be stuck in a music video? She dresses the part. She can't form a sentence without reciting rap lyrics. She has no interest in anything but music or expensive items. Does her taste suck in men?
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Do You Have Too Much Pride to Apologize?You knew you were wrong from the beginning. Or, maybe you found out you were wrong after you got new information. However, you still won't apologize and be the bigger person. Why?
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Should Married Couples Get an Annual Test for HIV/AIDS and Other STDs?The purpose of a marriage is to have a monogamous agreement, but with so many marriages failing due to cheating and trust issues, is it a good idea to get annual STD tests with your physicals?
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Traditional Weddings, Courthouse Weddings or Eloping, Which of the Three is Best?If you're stressed out during wedding planning and worried about everything going wrong, is it time to consider a nontraditional wedding? Should you elope? Would it be easier and cheaper to just go to a courthouse instead?
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Thirteen Tips for Saving During Wedding PlanningEven if you plan to have a wedding at your home, wedding planning can be expensive if you don't take some time to iron out the more expensive details. Here are 13 tips on making the wedding a little friendlier to your bank account.
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Wedding Planning Advice from Chicago Expert Wedding PlannersHere are some tips from wedding professionals and wedding planners in the Chicago area about how to make your wedding the best wedding it can possibly be.
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Halloween Memories, Scariest Halloween MomentI've had some scary Halloween moments of my own with movies, at home and at Six Flags Fright Fest. From cracking my watch to ripping my pants to a crazy phone call to chainsaws and Chucky, I've seen it all.
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Bill Maher Doesn't Want Boys to Be Named MohammedIf you have plans to name your future son Mohammad, political talk show host Bill Maher has a problem with that. Bill Maher pointed out that the name Mohammed is in the top five for British baby names.
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Social Butterfly and a Loner, Can These Two Successfully Date?The social butterfly thinks the other one has no friends and wants the loner to socialize. The loner just wants a peaceful, quiet date at home or alone. Can these two work out in a relationship?
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Organizing a Couples' Retreat for HalloweenHalloween doesn't have to be just for the kids. Why not make the October holiday fun time for you and your married or dating friends, too? Organize a couples' retreat party.
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Book Review: 'Oprah Winfrey's 'Dream Big! O's Guide to Discovering Your Best Life' Explores WomanhoodIf you've checked out her 2010 book "Love Your Life," maybe you'll be interested in previous editions. Read my review of Oprah Winfrey's "Dream Big! O's Guide to Discovering Your Best Life" exploring womanhood.
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Pick-up Lines Used for Dating, Do They Work or Should They Stop?He told you that he must be in heaven because he saw an angel. He asked you if you were a track runner because you've been running through his mind all day. Should he be slapped for being corny or should pick-up lines continue?
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Ten Things to Avoid Doing While Visiting ChicagoAre you ready to see the third largest city in the U.S.? Great, but here are some tips on things you should not do while you're visiting the Windy City. These 10 tips will make your trip much easier.
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Being the Third Wheel but Not by ChoiceHave you ever had that friend who won't go anywhere without her boyfriend? She has to have him pick her up, drop her off, go out with you two or try to force double dates on you? Here's what to do.
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Dealing with a Racist Friend or Family MemberIt may be easier to just ignore your racist family member or friend, but this attitude can spill over to children who grow up to also believe these views. By not saying anything, are you helping to continue these antics, too?
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Aggressive Women in Dating, Turn on or Turnoff?You walk right up to him and ask what he's doing for the rest of the night. You grab his crotch from underneath the table. You whisper like a porn star in his ear. You're doing tricks he's never seen in the bedroom. Good or bad thing?
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Five Great Dating Locations that Can Turn into a DisasterDinner and a movie is usually a safe date, but what happens when a baby is crying in the theater and your food is cold? Sometimes what sounds like a great dating location can be the worst.
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Why Do Women like Dating Bad Boys?He's no good for her, and she knows it. You can't wrap your mind around why she would date such a lowlife, but she just won't leave him alone. So what's the appeal?
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Tired of Breaking Up to Make Up?If you're tired of that roller coaster relationship, it might be time to finally put your foot down. Are you dating or breaking up? If you want to break up, what's taking you so long to do it permanently?
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Is WhitePages.Com Violating Your Privacy?Online information has perks and cons, and one of the main cons is lack of privacy. Have you ever looked up what WhitePages.com has listed under your name?
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Child Safety Rules with FragrancesLeaving perfume and cologne on your dresser is nothing to be concerned about when you don't have children, but cosmetics can be destructive to a curious kid who doesn't know any better.
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Hand Model Kimbra Hickey the Face of Applicious Perfume, Twilight CosmeticsHand model Kimbra Hickey came to Chicago last month for the Twilight Chicago Convention and to introduce her Applicious lotion.
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Finding Twilight Perfume, Nina Perfume CopycatTwilight fans may be in for a scavenger hunt trying to purchase the Twilight fragrance that released in 2008. Want to know why it's so difficult to find the perfume?
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Evergreen Plaza's the African Store Sells Over 250 Aromatherapy FragrancesThe African Store has over 250 fragrances. The most popular fragrances are Pina Colada, Eat It Raw, Hot and Juicy, Jamaican Fruit, Lemon, Love Spell, Lick Me All Over, Mango Butter, Oxygen and Tangy Tang.
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Fragrance Allergies, How to Identify Perfume or Cologne RashesThe problem with spraying a bunch of fragrances on yourself is if you end up with a rash, you won't know which fragrance did it. And if you got the rash from somewhere else, how would you be able to tell where it came from?
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Marketing to the Public, Does Sarcasm Work?Old Spice and Kotex used sarcasm to sell their products. Does this type of marketing work? Did it make you want to buy the products?
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Finding Bargains on Perfumes and ColognesFragrance store prices can make you run screaming from the building, but you don't have to pay an arm and a leg to go shopping. Check out these tips for economical perfumes and colognes.
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Buying Body Oils, Selecting Safe Fragrance Oils for Home and BodyGet on the Red Line in Chicago and chances are if you don't see the bootleg CD and movie guy, there will be a guy walking through the train cars selling incense and body oils. But how do you know if they're safe to buy?
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Hip-Hop Fragrances, Review of Perfumes and Colognes from RappersHip-hop has managed to be part of everything from vitamin water to shoes to cell phone ringtones, but how did it work out in the fragrance industry? Find out with Queen Latifah, Diddy, 50 Cent, Jay-Z and Nelly's fragrances.
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R&B Fragrances, Review of Perfumes and Colognes from R&B SingersR&B has had a strong hold on baby-making music and relaxation, but the genre is also putting its foot in the fragrance line. Check out fragrances from Fergie, Keri Hilson, Beyonce, Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey and Usher Raymond.
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Fragrance Safety and What to Avoid: Knockoff Perfumes, Cheap Fragrances, Body OilsCheap perfume doesn't have to make your neck fall off. There's a difference between buying discount perfume and buying a fragrance that's not safe for your skin. Here are some tips.
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Fragrance Alert, You're Wearing Too Much Cologne or PerfumeYou want to smell good, but sometimes you're a little too finger happy with the spray bottle. Here are tips on knowing when you just have on too much perfume or cologne.
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Checklist for Keeping Your Home Smelling FreshWhile some of these tips may be obvious, not everybody does them. Here are tips to get rid of that weird smell in your home and giving your home a fresh-smelling scent.
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Visiting the Perfume Factory Outlet in Ontario CanadaHave you ever been to a perfume factory outlet? This is the place where perfumes are made. I visited one while traveling in Canada and learned about mixing, notes and packaging fragrances.
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Scent of Chicago, Ghirardelli on the Magnificent MileBoth chocolate shops have made a name for themselves. So which one do you prefer, Ghirardelli or Hershey? Have you visited the Chicago stores?
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Scent of Chicago, Hershey's Chicago on the Magnificent MileHot chocolate, candy, chapstick and candles all smell like chocolate. Check out Hershey's Chicago to find out how to get it.
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Scent of Chicago, Garrett's PopcornYou can smell the popcorn before you see the Garrett's popcorn shops. Once you go inside, I dare you to come back out empty handed.
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Is Wearing Perfume or Cologne on a Job Interview Appropriate?Wanting to smell nice is reasonable, but when you take into account people with allergies or working in close quarters, that fragrance you love may pose a problem.
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Finding Your Signature Scent, How to Analyze Fragrance NotesYou read the notes on the bottle but have no idea what they mean. Why should you hang around for middle notes and base notes instead of just being aroused by the top notes? Find out here.
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How to Shop for the Right Perfume or Cologne as a GiftYou found a perfume or cologne that you'd love to have on your dresser, but that doesn't mean the person you're buying the fragrance will like it. How do you know which fragrance to buy for gift giving?
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How to Keep a Fresh Car Smell Without Damaging Your Car InteriorWho doesn't love the smell of a new car? The problem is that keeping that new car smell can be quite a chore if you don't regularly do a few things.
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How to Find Animal-friendly FragrancesDo you love trying out the latest perfumes and colognes but want to avoid the ones that were tested on animals? Check this out to find out how to shop for cruelty-free fragrances.
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How to Create a Halloween Fragrance PartyMany of us have been to candle parties, Halloween parties and even fragrance parties, but what happens when you put all three together to form a Halloween fragrance party?
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New Chicago Curbs Built to Meet American Disabilities Act RequirementsIn Sept. 2007, the $50 million settlement between the Council for Disability Rights, et.al, v. The City of Chicago resulted from complaints that Chicago's streets did not meet the requirements for the federal ADAAG. Find out the results.
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2010 Hyde Park Jazz Fest Performances at Midway PlaisanceThe Hyde Park Alliance for Arts & Culture (HyPa) celebrated its fourth annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival in Chicago.
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West Nile Virus Showing Up in Central IllinoisThe first human West Nile Virus Case in central Illinois was reported and confirmed in mid-August this year.
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BEHIV Organizes 5th Annual Art Therapy Exhibition and ReceptionThis fall, artists will be able to show their art, get paid for it and fight for HIV/AIDS at the same time with BEHIV's 2010 Art Therapy Exhibition and Reception.
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Indo-American Center in Chicago 20 Years StrongThe Indo-American Center (IAC) has spent two decades assisting South Asians with citizenship and immigration forms, public benefits assistance, a civics program, adult literacy, computer literacy classes and programs for seniors and youth.
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Did the GoTopless 2010 Chicago Rally with Bare-breasted Women Create Equal Rights?Women went topless in August 2010 to celebrate the GoTopless March in California, New York, Florida, Colorado and Illinois. Should it be legal? Is it against a woman's rights to go topless?
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Project NIA Fights Against Recidivism and Supports Record ExpungementOne-year-old Chicago organization Project NIA in Rogers Park is trying to help Chicago youth in expunging their record.
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Illinois Has 20 to 29 Percent Obesity RateIllinois has a 20 to 29 percent rate of obesity, but nine other states beat it.
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Bike Riding, Walking and Jogging at Skokie Northshore Channel ParkThe intersection at McCormick Drive and Touhy is the starting spot for the Skokie Northshore Channel Park with over 60 statues along the bike and walking trail.
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Black Children and Teens 2.3 Times More Likely to DrownBlack children and teens are 2.3 times more likely to drown than whites. After the drowning of six teens in Louisiana, parents may be scrambling to find swimming lesson facilities. Here are locations in Chicago.
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Channel Runne Park Features 18 Statues, Creative Exercise Route in Lincolnwood IllinoisVisitors at Lincolnwood Town Center can see the leaning birthday cake from across the street, but what's up with the statues? Find out.
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Chicago Punishment for Egg-throwing OffendersThe owner of a white SUV at Westfield Mall was met with eggs, mustard and tomatoes all over the truck. What would happen to someone who egged a person's car if she was caught?
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Over $160 Million in 2010 Fire Property Loss in IllinoisWhen was the last time you checked your smoke detector light? Do you have a carbon monoxide detector? Millions are lost from fires.
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Increasing Violence in Chatham NeighborhoodThe Chatham neighborhood in Chicago has changed for the worse. Cops are being killed. Children can't play sports in certain areas. Some residents are uncomfortable with neighbors and have confused reactions to the gun ban.
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Co-founder Kofi Moyo and Other 'Real Men' Discuss 20 Years of Real Men Cook ChicagoReal Men Cook participants and co-founder Kofi Moyo talk about what it's like to participate in Real Men Cook Chicago.
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Real Men Cook Chicago Co-founder Yvette Moyo Gillard Talks About Father's Day and ChicagoOne-half of the founders, Yvette Moyo Gillard, talked with Shamontiel about the creation of the event with her former husband and business partner, Kofi Moyo, and those who made Real Men Cook what it is today.
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Sensei Shadow and Sensei Carl Teach Self-defense Course Near Trinity United Church of ChristChicagoans can take a self-defense course near Trinity United Church of Christ.
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Target Subtracts Five Cents for Shopping with Their BagsFor customers who want to bumrush a Target location with their old plastic bags to get the five cents off, keep them at home. Target's policy is for consumers to use reusable cloth bags, not plastic bags of any sort.
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Weird Chicago Creates Al Capone Tour, Chicago Gang TourWeird Chicago gives a tour to Chicago visitors about Chicago gangs, including the crimes of Al Capone and other Mafia notables.
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Congress Plaza Hotel Workers Still on Strike After Over 7 YearsSeven plus years later and Congress Plaza Hotel workers are still on strike outside of the hotel. What do they want? When will they get it?
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Weird Chicago Tour Highlights Mafia Murders, Cemeteries, Restless Ghosts and Serial KillersChicagoans taking the Weird & Haunted Chicago tour see things tourists will probably never see in the Chicago Loop souvenir stores.
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Yah's Cuisine, South Shore Vegetarian Restaurant in ChicagoThe South Shore neighborhood in Chicago has a vegetarian restaurant called Yah's Cuisines. Have you been there?
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Chicago Drivers Fined Minimum of $700 for Playing Loud Car MusicHave you ever heard music loud enough to shatter your windows? Do you hate it when someone parks near your house and blasts music all night long? In Chicago, that can be a $700 fine.
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Black Greek Play 'Crossed' Explores Pledging and Hazing from BGO and Non-Greek PerspectiveIf you were a fan of "Stomp the Yard" but felt like the movie should've talked about more than stepping, this play written by a Chicago writer does just that. It came out last year and I recommend an encore.
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Chicago Marketing Company Commonground Owners Discuss Business, Advertising and Social NetworkingMarketing company Commonground talks about their work ethic, the marketing industry in Chicago and how they chose their entrepreneurial professions after being chosen to be on Chicago's Crains List.
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Ebony Magazine's 12-page Icon SpreadIf you've checked out the latest Ebony magazine, you saw star actors re-creating iconic legends in the African-American community. If that's not enough, did you check out those hats the ladies were sporting?
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Using Shea Moisture, Sundial Brand Shea Butter for Dry HairI'd never heard of the brand or seen the product, but for a product to be $9.99 when hair oil is usually $3 to $4, it had to be a pretty good hair oil. So was it?
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Is Bump Patrol Useful for Women with Excess Facial or Neck Hair?This test to see if Bump Patrol was safe to use on women was run by a willing participant. Check out her results after shaving neck hair.
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Pantene for Women of Color or Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition, Which is Better for Black Hair?After settling for Pantene for several years, I wondered was there another shampoo that could work for my hair type. I tried a free sample of Garnier Fructis Triple Nutrition shampoo. Check out what I thought of the product versus Pantene.
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Should African-Americans Wear Sunscreen?Black people are least likely to get skin cancer but most likely to be undiagnosed if she has it. So what can be done to stop skin cancer from happening?
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Why's Bump Patrol Popular? Master Barber Will Williams AnswersWill Williams--a 30-year master barber, master colorist and the Director of Education and New Product Development for M&M Products--gives tips on using Bump Patrol shaving cream and avoiding razor bumps.
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Master Barber Will Williams Chats About Caesar Haircuts, Easy Wave Hair Product and WavesWill Williams, M&M Product's Director of Education and New Product Development, talked about the Easy Wave product for men and creating waves in black men's hair.
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Untangling Hair, How to Rescue Your Hair from KnotsUntangling hair can become frustrating. It takes a long time to unravel and can make you want to cut it out altogether. Relax. There is a way to do it without clipping a chunk of hair out.
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Scheduling His First Haircut, What Age Should a Boy Visit the Barbershop?It's usually the mother who gets stuck braiding and oiling her son's hair all the time, and if she wants his hair cut, all hell breaks loose. Or, maybe it's the father who doesn't want his son's hair cut. But when should a boy get his first haircut?
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What Type of Facial Hair Do Women like to See on Guys?There are plenty of facial hairstyles, but not every woman likes every type. Check out what these ladies had to say about chin straps, beards, goatees, moustaches, five o' clock shadows, Van Dykes and more.
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Repairing Damaged Hair, Clipping Split EndsThe wrong shampoo. The wrong conditioner. Completing a hair relaxer incorrectly. Humid weather. There are many ways to end up with damaged hair or split ends. Here are tips on repairing them.
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Hair Care Products for Your Camping TripAs fun as camping may be, it can be hard on black hair, especially if the temperature is hot and humid. Here are six hair care products that should be taken along on camping trips.
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Is it Time to Switch Barbers or Beauticians or Just Time to Compromise?Your beautician is starting to get on your nerves or tried to screw up your hair. Is it because you didn't communicate with her, because she chose to do what she wanted to anyway or is it time to leave?
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The African Store Offers 250 Fragrances Available for Shampoos and ConditionersThe African Store, located in Evergreen Plaza, offers over 250 fragrances that can be mixed into shampoo and conditioner. Popular fragrances include Oxygen, Eat It Raw, Jamaican Fruit and Love Spell.
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How to Use Hair Relaxer on Black HairPart of the problem with relaxing hair is too many people don't know what they're doing. Read the instructions. Follow the timeframe for leaving hair relaxer on. Check out these hair relaxing tips.
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How Young is Too Young for a Child to Get Her Hair Permed?How young is too young for hair to be permed? Should your child get a hair relaxer or go natural? Do you think it affects her self-esteem?
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Black Women at Work, Professional Hairstyles in the WorkplaceWhile everyone is entitled to wear their hair the way they choose, here are some tips on how to blend your style with corporate style in the workplace.
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Avoiding Excessive Heat from Curling Irons, Flat Irons, Hair Relaxer and Hair Dryers on Your HairCurling irons, flat irons, hair relaxer and hair dryers are great for styling, but they can be hard on your hair. Try to find alternate ways to style your hair without the daily heat.
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Review: Infiniti Conair Straightening IronHow does the Infiniti Conair straightening iron react to black hair? Is the attachment comb necessary, useful or a quick way to tangle hair? Find out here.
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Do You Love Your Hair More Than You Love Yourself?After a VH1 scene on the reality show "You're Cut Off" aired, I wondered how much pressure do women put on their hair. Is it an extension of themselves or is that the only thing we think is important? Does it matter if it's natural or permed?
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Not Every Black Woman with a Perm is Trying to 'Look White'Gawker.com got a finger wagging for showcasing Naomi Campbell's bald spot, but I was more annoyed by a blog stating that the choice to use her photo was racist. That term is thrown around too much, and not every black woman feels pressured to conform.
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Olive Oil and Black Hair, Why Do They Work Well Together?Olive Oil is not just good for avoiding arthritis and cooking. It's also a useful product for hair styling and hair oil on black hair. Find out why.
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Satin and Silk Wrap Caps, Why Are They Necessary for Black Hair?Fellas, you may not like seeing your lady wearing a satin or silk wrap cap to bed, but if you like her hair to look healthy, here's why you shouldn't complain.
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Review: Why I Prefer GOLD N' HOT Hair Dryers Over Other Hair Dryer BrandsIn just about every retail store, discount store or department store, hair dryers are sold. Check out why I only look for GOLD N' HOT hair short-nose hair dryers.
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Eleven Tips for Growing and Maintaining Long, Healthy African American HairWhat works for one person's hair may not work for the next person's hair, but there are some general tips that can be useful for both. Check out these eleven tips.
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Author Teri LaFlesh Writes Guide for Curly Hair UpkeepWhile reading author Teri LaFlesh's book, I remembered the time I accidentally tangled a guy's hair. I was amazed he still liked me after that, but I learned two things: hair will grow back and curly hair is nothing like straight hair.
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Six Trusty Items to Keep Your Hair in Check when the Weather Tries to Ruin ItNo matter how much preparation you put into your hair, you can't control how the weather will respond to it. But you can control how to fix your hair once the weather has left its mark.
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How Hair and Hair Chemicals Can Trigger Asthma AttacksFor someone who has asthma, sitting still in a beauty salon can be a task. Even at home, a person with bad asthma has to be weary of certain products while styling her hair and pay special attention to house chores.
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Styling African-American Girls' HairLittle girls may be made of sugar and spice and everything nice, but they can wear out a hairdo. Here are some tricks to keep your little girl's hair in check while she's running around.
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Avoiding Head Lice, Sanitizing and Trying on New HatsBuying a hat or cap isn't like buying socks. You want to make sure it's the right fit or style, but the problem is that trying on hats after someone else can cause sanitary issues. Avoid head lice. Learn to sanitize a hat.
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Has Someone Worn Your Store Underwear Before You?Did you know that every clothing store doesn't make sure underwear is sanitary or unused before you buy it? MSNBC did. Check out what viewers are saying on various websites and stats on how often this occurs.
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How to Mold and Style a Mohawk HaircutMohawks used to be a stereotypical hairstyle for rock stars, but Mohawks have made their way into the hip-hop community and in black women's hairstyles. Check out how to mold and style a Mohawk.
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Health Matters More Than Hair, Don't Let Your Hair Stop ExerciseNo matter how cute your hair is, it shouldn't stop you from getting a regular workout. As much money and time dedicated to hairstyles should be dedicated to keeping in shape.
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How to Find the Right Beautician or BarberPres. Barack Obama loved his barber so much that he had him flown out to keep his hair tight. Do you like your barber or beautician that much? Have you found someone who you like enough to be a regular?
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Comedian and Actress Mo'Nique Honors Hattie McDaniel During Oscar WinMo'Nique, who'd followed Hattie McDaniel's story before she won the Oscar, wore a blue flower in her hair. Do you know why?
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Finding the Right Hair Rollers, Avoiding Hair Roller DentsHair rollers help avoid heat on hair and give immediate body. The only problem is that sometimes they leave unattractive hair roller dents and can leave hair too curly. Here are tips on finding the right rollers.
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Review of M&M Products Sofn'free Three Layer Growth OilAll Sofn'free GroHealthy products are a mix of milk, protein and olive oil. After trying out the Really Deep Conditioning Treatment and Leave-In Treatment, my final test was with the Three-Layer Growth Oil.
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Creating Flat Iron Hairstyles on Black WomenAlthough flat irons can be used to flatten thick hair, they can also be used to form creative hairdos.
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Photos: Creating flat iron hairstyles for black womenAlthough flat irons can be used to flatten thick hair, they can also be used to form creative hairdos. Flat irons are excellent tools for molding popular hairstyles.
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Photos: Creating flat iron hairstyles for black womenAlthough flat irons can be used to flatten thick hair, they can also be used to form creative hairdos.
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Review of M&M Products Sofn'free Really Deep Conditioning TreatmentM&M Product's Sofn'free uses milk, protein and olive oil in their deep conditioner. I usually just use a regular conditioner and let it sit on my hair, but this one felt a little different.
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Slideshow: Creating flat iron hairstyles for black womenHere are a few ideas for styling hair with flat irons for black women.
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How to Tackle Female Hair Loss in Black HairBlack women do not play around when it comes to their hair. To find out that their hair is falling out is a huge deal, as it is with other cultures. Here are tips on how to avoid hair loss or how to recognize what's wrong.
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Review of M&M Products Sofn'free Milk Protein & Olive Oil Strengthening CrèmeM&M Product's Sofn'free uses milk, protein and olive oil in its new hair products. It smells great, but does it work?
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How to Keep Hair Stacks, Feathering Hair and Short Haircuts NeatHair always looks nice in a beauty salon, especially when you wack it all off. However, when you get home, do you know how to keep your hair stacked, feathered and curled after the hair spray wears off?
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Keeping Your Hair in Check During Winter or Rainy DaysSnow, rain and humidity can jack up a hairstyle like nobody's business, but there are some tricks to keeping black hair in tact during those less sun friendly months.
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The Black Woman's Hair Enemy, Petrolatum and Mineral OilSome women prefer products that last in their hair. They feel like Vaseline, but they're helpful with molding hair. The problem is these products often use petrolatum and mineral oil, two products that dry hair out more.
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Hair Oil, Hair Butter and Aloe Vera Products: How Do They Help Black Hair?Just about every single hair product in a beauty supply store promises longer, healthier hair, but do you really know why coconut oil, jojoba oil, aloe vera, cocoa butter, shea butter or olive oil even matter?
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Living in a City with No Neighborhood Black Beauty Supply StoresBlack women (or black men) can't just put any generic shampoo or conditioner in their hair. Try it, and it'll end in disaster. Black beauty supply stores are important for black hair types. Don't have one? Here are tips.
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Hair, Health and Fashion: Would You Date Yourself?Confidence makes people want to date you even when they don't think they do, but if you wouldn't even date yourself why would someone else? Let's take a self-evaluation.
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Keeping Your Hands Clean in a Dirty WorldYou're just sitting down to eat and someone introduces herself. It'd be impolite to not shake her hand. You see an empty seat from someone who was just digging in his nose. You touch silverware, but you don't know who else did. Germs! Help stay clean.
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How to Twist Your Hair into Braids, African-American HairstylesWith hair relaxer, curling irons and pressing irons, heat is hard on the hair. Why not give it a break with hair twists? Here's how to style them.
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How Medicine for Diabetes May Affect Hair LossYour hair is not as important as your health, but it surely hurts to find out mandatory medicine can lead to hair loss. Find out one woman's story about how she dealt with the two.
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Oiling African-American Hair, How Often, What to Use and What to AvoidAs easy as it may sound to oil someone's hair, there are those who are unsure of what products to use, what products to avoid and why is it more important to oil the scalp than the hair.
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Selecting the Right Hair Relaxer Brand, Do You Want a Perm?Every black hair type is not meant to be permed, but the belief that all permed hair is weak or falls out isn't accurate either. Here are tips on deciding whether you really want to perm your hair and how to take care of a relaxer.
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Black Men Speak Out About Natural Hair or Permed Hair for Black Women, Who Likes What?Even after comedian Chris Rock's film "Good Hair" came out, there's still an ongoing debate about natural hair versus permed hair and whether women get their hair done for men or for themselves. I asked nine black men what they thought.
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Physical Acting at Its Best with the Talented Erika AlexanderAlthough Erika Alexander has been putting in work since 1986, she may be most popular for her roles on "Living Single" as Maxine Shaw Attorney at Law or "The Cosby Show"'s Pam Tucker. But check out why she's hot for even more than that.
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Oprah Winfrey's 'Love Your Life' Book Shows Examples of Overcoming Extreme ObstaclesFrom the title "Love Your Life," one might think Oprah Winfrey's fifth volume of a collection of O, the Oprah Magazine articles would be happy and inspiring stories. While inspiring, some of these articles left me in awe.
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Author S.E. Cupp Says Saving the Environment 'is a Rich Person's Burden," Agree or Disagree?P.J. O'Rourke should've been embarrassed to act the way he did on HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher," but at least he could use liquor as an excuse. A sober S.E. Cupp's comments on green living and green jobs was worse.
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Green Gift-Giving: Using Yellow Pages for Gift Tissue PaperTech savvy people are more likely to check out a company's website or contact someone via e-mail for a contact address, but Yellow Pages continue to be delivered to my apartment. Here's what I do with Yellow Pages sheets, especially around Christmas.
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Why Everybody Who Saw 'Stomp the Yard 2: Homecoming' Deserves a RefundAfter the excitement of Stomp the Yard, why wouldn't step lovers want to see another film about stepping, especially if it includes popular celebs like Columbus Short, 106 & Park's Terrence, Stephen "Twitch" Boss and Pooch Hall?
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Alex Haley's 'Mama Flora's Family,' Most Underrated TV MiniseriesAlthough Roots became very popular in schools, in the film industry and the book industry, there was a miniseries that slipped under the cracks, and it was called Mama Flora's Family. Find out why it was such a great show.
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Jan Schakowsky, Democrat for Congress Candidate, Supports Pro-choice Health CareRepublicans and Democrats are widely divided on the issue of abortion with health insurance. Some Democrats won't even talk about the topic because they fear losing voters, but Jan Schakowsky speaks up about pro-choice issues.
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Jesse White Running for Secretary of State Again in 2010Chicagoans may have gotten so used to him on their mail and seeing his name when visiting the Department of Motor Vehicles. Jesse White, Illinois' current Secretary of State, wants to be re-elected in 2010. But do you know who he's up against?
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Did the Lyrics on Donell Jones 'Lyrics' CD Meet the Singer's Reputation?Because Donell Jones' fall 2010 CD is called "Lyrics," I paid more attention to just that--lyrics. Unfortunately most of the CD fell short. I'm still a fan of his music but not of this CD.
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Fall 2010 Show, Halpern's '$#*! My Dad Says' Show is as Good as the BookIf you've read the book "Sh*t My Dad Says," you probably counted down the days until Justin Halpern's book came to life on CBS. What do you think of the fall 2010 television show so far?
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How to Rent Your Chicago Home as a Film LocationYou've gotten all excited to see familiar neighborhoods or homes in Chicago and now you want to rent your own home out for a movie. Here are steps on how to submit your home and what key questions to ask before signing film contracts.
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Is the Word stimulus Taboo Because it Works or Because There's No Way to Scam?In a Time magazine article, reporter Michael Grunwald breaks down why the $787 billion stimulus package works and how the Obama administration polices the money. I also agree with the Recovery Act and similar decisions in my ward. Here's why.
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Issues Rahm Emanuel Will Take on as Possible Chicago MayorOn Fri., Oct. 1, the Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel left the White House and is moving back to Chicago. Although his return to Chicago is no surprise considering he was vocal about being a mayor, here are some of the issues he'll deal with.
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Interview with Celebrity Food and Junk Artist, Jason MecierJason Mecier is a 15-year artist who enjoys re-creating his favorite pop artists. His work has been featured in Ripley's Believe It Or Not!, he has celebrity clients and he's been featured in the New York Times. Check out the interview.
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Letters from Senators Roland Burris and Dick Durbin About Appealing the DADT BillRepublicans and a couple of Democrats filibustered appealing the DADT bill, but for those Illinois voters who did write our senators to read their views on "don't ask, don't tell," here are letters I received about the topic.
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How to Make Your Jobs Benefit Your CareerWe've all taken jobs specifically to pay bills in hopes of pursuing our career path. Some jobs are ones you have no desire to do for more than a small time period, but no matter what job you have make it work to your advantage.
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Video: 2010 Hyde Park Jazz FestivalJosh Moshier and Mike Lebrun Quintet, Ernest Dawkins Organ Trio, Brad Goode Quartet and Jeff Lindberg's Chicago Jazz Orchestra "A Tribute to Ray Charles and The Raelettes" at the James W. Wagner Stage perform at the 2010 Hyde Park Jazz Festival.
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Clintons Apologize for Tuskegee Experiment and Syphillis to GuatemalansFormer President Bill Clinton, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and President Obama have issued statements about America's dark past with taking advantage of human beings for medical experiments for syphilis and gonorrhea.
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Why Your First Car is like Your First LoveOn an episode of MTV's "When I Was 17," R&B star Trey Songz talked about his first car. In this entry, I talk about my own first car. Tell me about yours, too.
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Collecting Black Heritage Stamps, How to Find Previous StampsAre you one of those people who looks forward to the new Black Heritage stamp and makes sure you're at the post office to see the new faces? I am. With companies like Black Heritage Commemorative Society, I collected over 80 old stamps.
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Bill Maher Discussion: Are You on Social Networking Sites to Be Famous?On the Fri., Oct. 1, edition of HBO's "Real Time With Bill Maher," the political talk show host discusses why social networking is so unimportant. But if it's so unimportant, why does he have an active Facebook and Twitter account?
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Cong. Gutierrez, Senate Nominee Giannoulias and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin Support Bill for DREAM ActIllinois senatorial candidate Alexi Giannoulias, U.S. Senator (D-IL) Dick Durbin and Congressman Luis Gutierrez attend a rally in support of the Dream Act. Find out why I'm undecided on supporting the Dream Act.
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Chicago Charges $500 for Feeding Pigeons, What's the Big Deal with Bird Feeding?There's a sign under the viaduct near the intersection of Touhy and Clark about a $500 fine for feeding pigeons. They're all over Chicago, but why? This entry explains the downside of feeding birds.
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Why Air Freshener in Your Home May Not Be SafeYou've got your Air Wick, Glade and Febreze plug-ins, fragrance fans and spray. Your home smells delicious. But do you know what you may be doing to your lungs and your home environment by using air freshener products?
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Why Should Businesses Have Cigarette Butt Receptacles?Companies have cracked down on 'No Smoking' signs and removing cigarette receptacles near doorways. However, with receptacles missing this is leading to more cigarette butt litter. This entry explains why receptacles are necessary.
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Buying Dixie Elixirs, an Alternative to Medical Marijuana, Has RulesDixie Elixirs & Medibles is currently selling Dixie Elixirs medical marijuana carbonate drinks. How long do you think it'll take before weedheads figure out a way to get this drink without a prescription?
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Interracial Relationships on TV, Why Aren't They Happening More Often?Halle Berry won her first Oscar for "Monsters Ball. While I think that movie was soft porn, there are TV shows and real-life relationships that put more thought into interracial relationships with black women and white men.
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Ward 49 Holds First Fall 2010 Participatory Budgeting Assembly to Discuss $1.3 MillionMonday, Sept. 27, was the first of nine meetings in Ward 49 to discuss the 2011 vote for the participatory budgeting of $1.3 million. Alderman Joe Moore is the only alderman in the nation to let citizens vote democratically. Check out my experience.
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Pres. Obama is Returning to Chicago to Support U.S. Senate Candidate Alexi GiannouliasPres. Barack Obama and Illinois senatorial candidate Alexi Giannoulias have more in common than just being friends. Pres. Obama will return to Chicago on Oct. 7 to support Giannoulias. Find out why the president thinks he's the right person for the job.
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Could Broccoli Slow Down the 67 Million People Predicted to Get Arthritis?CDC reports that 67 million people will have arthritis by 2030. Is eating broccoli the way to avoid getting it and curing it?
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California State University's Dr. Natalie Wilson Discusses 'Twilight' College Course, Quileute Tribe and White PrivilegeCreating a course around a book or author is nothing new, but how often does it happen in pop culture? Dr. Natalie Wilson from CSU wanted to created a course about more than Team Jacob and Team Edward. Her course examines race, privilege and culture.
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Is Hip-Hop Going Green?Dead tired of the radio and hearing about the same subject matter, I'm leaning more towards neosoul and jazz these days. But one day Arrested Development's songs were stuck in my head and I lucked up on "Greener."
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Gloria Steinem Weighs in on Potential Chicago Mayor and Governor CandidatesIn a Wed., Sept. 22, interview with Micah Materre, feminist Gloria Steinem talked about potential Chicago mayoral candidate Rahm Emanuel and governor candidate Bill Brady. Do they care about women's issues?
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John Legend and the Roots Want Listeners to 'Wake Up!' in 2010 CDHip-hop meets R&B in the Sept. 2010 CD from "Wake Up! with John Legend and The Roots. Although it has a hip-hop group, the CD comes off more gospel than hip-hop or R&B. Check out the song breakdown.
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Ward 49 Ready for 2nd Participatory Budgeting Meeting for $1.3 Million Menu MoneyAlderman Joe Moore from Ward 49 in Chicago is gearing up for the 2nd participatory budgeting meeting with locals to discuss the $1.3 million distributed for improvements in Chicago area.
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Illinois Gearing Up for One Day, Instant Rebate on Energy Star AppliancesIllinois stores will open their doors today around 7 a.m. for the 8 a.m. one-day Energy Star appliance shopping day. Residents can trade in their old appliances for Energy Star appliances and rebates.
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Indifferent About Blockbuster Going Bankrupt in September 2010?I'm not big on renting movies so it took me a few years to finally pay attention to Netflix. After a free trial, Netflix was the new love of my life. Bye, bye, Blockbuster. I won't miss you.
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NeilMed Sinus Rinse, the Cold Medicine that Feels More like SwimmingTheraflu, Dayquil, Nyquil, Tylenol and Advil are all cold and sinus brands you've heard of. But how familiar are you with NeilMed Sinus Rinse? Here's why you should know about this medicine kit.
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Singer Lyfe Jennings Returns to Prison for Three and a Half YearsWhether Lyfe Jennings will return to the music scene with a new prison number is foggy. But he did have a Tweet to his fans before going back into the prison system for three and a half years. What are your views on him now?
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How to Get a Press Pass, Media Pass CredentialsIf you're a reviewer, blogger or journalist, you might be eligible for a press pass into an event but you have to know who to contact and what you need to have beforehand. Check out tips here.
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How to Plan a Black History PartyThere are no hard and fast rules about planning a Black History Party, but if you're a supporter of the month-long celebration here are ideas to get your friends in on the historical importance of it.
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How to Find a Party Deejay Who Fits Your Music StyleAnybody can pull out their CD collection and press play, but finding a quality deejay is a little bit more involved than that. Here are tips on finding the deejay who is right for your party.
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Borrow Money from Friends and Family to Purchase a Home, Yes or No?You've heard that owning real estate is a great way to make money, or you're finally tired of living in an apartment with the rude neighbors upstairs. But if you don't have the money to purchase a home, where will you go to get it?
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California State University Has 'Twilight' Course in Fall 2010 Class LineupImagine standing in the registration line to sign up for classes and finding out that one of the courses is about the "Twilight" series. Would you take the course? Do you think it's a relevant course for English majors?
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Absentee Ballots in Chicago Accepted Sept. 23, Early Voting on Columbus DayUpcoming Chicago elections for a governor, state senator and more are around the corner. If you accepted an absentee ballot, this week, those will start to be accepted. Check out early voting locations, too.
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TV One's 'Unsung' Tammi Terrell Feature Both Bittersweet and InformativeAfter initially being excited about finding out more about Motown singer Tammi Terrell, who frequently sang duets with icon Marvin Gaye, the "Unsung" feature on TV One gave me more than I bargained for.
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Proposed Amendment to the Constitution, Recall Governor Section on 2010 Illinois Election BallotPamphlets are circulating in the Chicagoland area about a "Proposed Amendment to Add Section 7 to Article III in the Illinois Constitution." The amendment suggests Chicagoans having the right to recall an Illinois governor. Find out my thoughts on that.
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John Singleton's New Movie 'Abduction' Features 'Twilight' Star and Heartthrob Taylor LautnerDirector John Singleton is working with "Twilight" movie star Taylor Lautner in the 2011 film "Abduction." Find out the details I have so far on the movie.
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Lady Gaga Opposes Don't Ask, Don't Tell Policy, Video Call to New York SenatorsAlthough Lady Gaga's meat dress may have gotten the most attention at the 2010 MTV VMAs, the pop star is still focused on her senators repealing the "don't ask, don't tell" policy and did so in a video.
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Chicago's Hidden Discount Movie Tickets and Discount Movie TheatersWould you rather pay $7.50, $8, $9.50 or over $10 to see the same movie? Rhetorical question. Check out hidden ways to see popular movies for discount prices in Chicago.
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Jesse Jackson Jr. Mute on Blagojevich Case but Plenty to Say About Rahm EmanuelJesse Jackson Jr. still hasn't made a public decision about whether he wants to run for Chicago mayor, but he had plenty of opinions about Rahm Emanuel. Isn't it odd that he's so quiet about Blagojevich but so opinionated about Obama and Emanuel?
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Mayor Daley and Ald. Moore Attend ZAM's Hope's 10th Annual Fashion ShowThe City of Chicago has given ZAM's Hope $5,000 in grants for helping immigrant women adjust to Chicago life. On Thurs., Sept. 16, local politicians and city leaders will participate in the 10th Annual Fashion Show.
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Why "The Cosby Show" is Still My Favorite Family Television ShowIn the '80s and '90s, there were positive, family-oriented shows that targeted African-American families like "Good Times,' 'The Jeffersons' and 'Family Matters' but none could hold a torch to 'The Cosby Show.'
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Ten Things to Do While Chase Bank's Online System is DownToday makes the second day that Chase.com is down, and this is a time to get to know your bank outside of a computer. Here are tip things you can do to keep your money in check while the site is down.