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THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – A Jam-Packed Summer Festival Weekend!

This weekend is literally jam-packed with amazing summer festivals and other events that you’ll be hard pressed not to find something to do. So, get out there and enjoy Chicago’s summer before it’s gone!
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Neighborhood News: Near West Side’s historical Maxwell Street Market celebrates the birthplace of Maxwell Street Polish, Chicago blues, community

For more than 100 years, the Maxwell Street Market, between South Halsted Street and South Union Avenue, has featured an eclectic mix of arts, crafts, resale items, live music, and street food.
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Restaurant Review: Happy 100th Birthday to Chicago’s own Original Rainbow Cone! Let’s celebrate! 🎊 🎊 🎊

“Five flavors. One unforgettable experience.” Welcome to #NationalceCreamMonth! Recently, my kid and I took a mini-vacation to New Buffalo, Michigan. It’s our mini-Mayberry, complete with a main street, quaint shops, and friendly townspeople...
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Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 8 ways to keep plant containers thriving in extreme heat

The heat and humidity have finally arrived in the Midwest and the Chicagoland area. Unfortunately, our flower containers which have been thriving with little care can start wilting! Plants in the ground tend to have longer roots that can reach moisture deeper in the soil, but pots, window boxes and hanging baskets dry out more quickly. Here’s a few tips on how to prevent that...
new house and family in their backyard together looking at their property

Summer Selling Secrets: Attract More Buyers This Season

Thinking about selling your home this summer? Discover practical tips to boost curb appeal, create inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, and attract more buyers during one of the busiest seasons in real estate.
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THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – It’s a Food Frenzy Provided by Chefs & Pitmasters!

It’s time to fill our bellies this weekend as two very popular food festivals are serving up a food frenzy of some of the best food this city has to offer as well as other events for those who want a more laid-back weekend!
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Neighborhood News: Free Movies in Millennium Park offers family-friendly fun in the heart of the city

Nearly every Tuesday in July and August, against a backdrop of Lake Michigan and the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park offers crowd-pleasing, free, family -friendly movies presented on a state-of- the-art, 40-foot LED screen.
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Restaurant Review: Lincoln Park’s R.J. Grunt’s Revisited…the 70’s are alive and well!

It’s hard to believe that Lincoln Park’s R.J. Grunt’s is 55 years old in 2026. I grew up with the Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (LEYE) flagship restaurant’s funky, wood-paneled, devil-may-care vibe and 70’s décor after a trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo or the Chicago History Museum, both of which are nearby.
Bath time stock photo

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 7 tricks for using your old bar soap

Many of us have switched to liquid soap for washing our hands and bodies. But it wasn’t all that long ago we were using bar soap—and almost everyone in the family used the same kind, in the bath, shower and sink. What if I told you it’s still good to hang onto some of that old-fashioned soap? It has many uses you might not think of, like...
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15 Clever IKEA Hacks Every Homeowner and Renter Should Know

Looking to give your home a fresh new look without spending a fortune? These 15 clever IKEA hacks are packed with budget-friendly ideas to maximize storage, add style, and make any space feel more functional. Whether you're a homeowner or renter, these creative DIY projects will help you transform your home with ease.
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THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!!

One of the best times in Chicago for the summer is experiencing the Fourth of July here. However, this weekend is even more special. Not only does the Fourth of July fall on Saturday but we’re also celebrating America’s 250th Birthday! It doesn’t get any better than this!
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Neighborhood News: Explore the world, celebrate America’s birthday without leaving the city at Museum Free Days!

As the USA celebrates its 250th birthday, the history of our heritage and diverse culture is omnipresent at Chicago’s iconic museums 365 days a year...
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Restaurant Review: In Grant Park, Taste of Chicago brings communities, cuisines, music together

DO YOU REMEMBER…your first Original Rainbow Cone? Your first slice of Lou Malnati’s pizza? For me, a suburban kid, I’d never had either until my first visit to the Taste of Chicago in Grant Park...
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Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 7 ways to use sugar in the garden

It’s always best to use natural products in the garden. We know how dangerous pesticides can be, especially to living beings closer to the ground like pets and children. It turns out there is a useful pantry staple I would think 100% of you have: white sugar! Sugar, used properly, won’t harm your plants and you don’t need much to...
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Grill, Gather, Relax: Summer Entertaining Made Easy

Summer is the perfect time to slow down, fire up the grill, and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or an intimate patio dinner, creating a welcoming outdoor space doesn't have to be complicated. With a little planning and a few thoughtful touches, you can make every gathering feel special while making the most of your home.
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THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Summer Begins – Officially!

Finally, it’s officially summer; however, our summer temps are lagging and won’t return to full force until next week. In the meantime, this last weekend of June continues to bring us summer favorite events and the culmination of Pride Month! Shall we get started?
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Neighborhood News: On the beach, in the parks...Working Out the ‘Chicago Way’

Now that it’s officially summer, it’s time to enjoy the warm weather and do your workouts under the sun!! And thanks to Chicago Park District, they’re free!!
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Restaurant Review: Celebrating 'Christmas in July' at the Marshall Field's Walnut Room

July in Chicago means hot, sticky weather. What better way to beat the heat than to celebrate a wintry holiday? The legendary Marshall Field’s Walnut Room, located on Macy’s 7th floor, 111 N. State Street, has you covered!
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Chicago Home and Lifestyles – 6 coping strategies to help regulate emotions

There is a life skill that we should all know, but sadly few of us do: self-soothing. It slows down emotional reactions and helps you avoid impulsive decisions. It becomes even more important as we get older because our lives are busier and more stressful. Here are a few ways to cope with stress and regulate your emotions...
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7 Outdated Home Trends That Are Making a Comeback

Everything old is new again. From wood paneling and wallpaper to formal dining rooms and terrazzo surfaces, several once-outdated home design trends are making a stylish comeback. Discover seven classic features that are returning to modern homes—and why today's buyers are embracing them.
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THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – All About Dad This Father’s Day Weekend!

As usual, Chicago is offering a wide variety of Father’s Day events this weekend that suit dads of many different interests. So, I’ve selected a few of the many events taking place that your Dad, you and the rest of the family can enjoy!
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Neighborhood News: “Yes, We Can!” Previewing the new Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park

“You are America. Unconstrained by habit and convention. Unencumbered by what is, ready to seize what ought to be...” President Barack Obama, 2015