Lifestyle Columns
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Electric infloor heating can improve comfort on cold daysJan 26, 2026 5:00 am - We set our thermostat lower to save, but my feet are always cold. Is infloor electric radiant more efficient than resistance electric heating and can it be used under carpeting?
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‘Greatest personal achievement’: Palatine cyclist shares memories of 1976 Bikecentennial rideJan 22, 2026 8:08 am - Saying it was his “greatest personal achievement,” Jim Michie of Palatine, who rode his bike across the U.S. in 1976 with other cyclists, recently headed west to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bikecentennial.
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‘You find your niche’: How service clubs like Kiwanis, Rotary attract new membersJan 21, 2026 4:40 pm - During my years as a service club member from 1987 to 2010, something bothered me. How would the club move into the future without younger members?
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Who is responsible for damages caused by roof ice damming?Jan 21, 2026 1:26 pm - We’ve recently received many questions from condominium owners regarding roof ice damming and water staining or damage to interior ceilings or walls in their units.
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Small steps beat big dreams when it comes to making real changeJan 21, 2026 10:46 am - If past behavior and loads of reliable data are trustworthy indicators, many Americans will have thrown in the towel on their 2026 New Year’s resolutions by the time this article is published. The reasons are simple: The goals were likely unrealistic or lacking in specificity.
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Apple cider vinegar helps flavors pop in this award-winning chiliJan 21, 2026 6:03 am - Perfect for a cold day, this chili contains many of the ingredients you might expect: ground beef, tomatoes, beans and chili powder. It also uses a packet of mild chili seasoning, beef base, apple cider vinegar and sugar, which work together to make a smooth balance of flavors.
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Yelp referrals for home inspectorsJan 20, 2026 3:50 pm - In one of your columns, a buyer was annoyed her agent would not recommend a home inspector. I'm a Realtor, and our company has a policy against recommending any service providers.
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It’s time to start seeds for early spring annualsJan 20, 2026 1:51 pm - It’s the new year, and it’s already time to think about spring. One of your first tasks is starting seeds for cold-tolerant, early spring annuals that require a long lead time before being planted.
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2026 tips for how to pay for collegeJan 17, 2026 12:59 pm - Whether your college-bound student is starting college this fall, next fall or the one after that, there are steps you can take in 2026 to help your child get their degree without sabotaging your savings or retirement.
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Should condo board member use work email for association matters?Jan 14, 2026 2:23 pm - Is it a good idea for a condo board member to communicate about association matters using their work e-mail?