<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Chicago </title>
	<atom:link href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago</link>
	<description>Village Green Chicago Blogs offers news, entertainment, lifestyle new, humor, funny videos, games, and pop culture with moderated comments.</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Mon, 28 Jan 2013 19:19:31 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1</generator>
		<item>
		<title>Emerald City: Add a Little of 2013’s Color of the Year to Your Space</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2013/01/28/emerald-city-add-a-little-of-2013%e2%80%99s-color-of-the-year-to-your-space/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2013/01/28/emerald-city-add-a-little-of-2013%e2%80%99s-color-of-the-year-to-your-space/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 28 Jan 2013 19:05:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=2063</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Pantone, the authority on color for the world of design, has named emerald  the hue of 2013. Pantone describes emerald as, “a lively, radiant lush green.”]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2013/01/emerald.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2066" title="emerald" src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2013/01/emerald.jpg" alt="" width="247" height="204" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2013/01/emerald.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2066" title="emerald" src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2013/01/emerald.jpg" alt="" width="247" height="204" /></a></p>
<p>Update your space by adding hints of this classic jewel tone in unexpected places.</p>
<ul>
<li>Candles- A great way to add a splash of color is to add emerald candles in a clear decorative vase and set it on a table or dresser. You can even step-it-up by adding colorful stones around the candle. Just make sure to blow out the flame after you walk out of the room.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li> Glass- Add some green glassware, such as an interesting candle holder, vase or bowl to your space. These light touches will add a pop of color anywhere you might need it.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Vintage- Head to your local thrift or resale shop for an inexpensive plush chair in an emerald tone, or pick up a chair that could be cheaply reupholstered. You might even find some great green-toned fabric that could be used to make curtains, throw pillows or a table cloth. Just make sure you are inspired by ‘The Sound of Music’ or ‘Gone with the Wind’ when you repurpose your thrift store finds.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Accent- You can add hints of emerald in creative ways by heading to any inexpensive home goods stores (such as Ikea or Pier One) and stock up on accessories. You can upgrade your bedspread, add jewel tone towels to your bathroom or a bouquet of flowers to your kitchen table</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>V.A.L.U- Have a lease renew or new rental at a <a href="http://www.villagegreen.com/">Village Green</a> apartment? Take advantage of our value added luxury upgrade program and add an emerald two-tone accent wall to your unit. Learn more here: <a href="http://www.villagegreen.com/valu">http://www.villagegreen.com/valu</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Have fun making simple upgrades to your space that would make even the Wizard of Oz green with envy.</p>
<p>Every year, Pantone finds inspiration from art, entertainment and film to decide its Color of the Year. Their choice influences fashion and design.  Learn more about Pantone and the Color of the Year: <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/index.aspx">http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/index.aspx</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2013/01/28/emerald-city-add-a-little-of-2013%e2%80%99s-color-of-the-year-to-your-space/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Unique Wedding Ideas</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2012/04/05/unique-wedding-ideas/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2012/04/05/unique-wedding-ideas/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 05 Apr 2012 17:53:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[unique wedding ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding plans]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding receptions]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wedding trends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[weddings]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=2052</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[So you&#8217;re getting married. Congrats! Now for the tough part, planning a memorable day that represents both you and your fiancé in a way that&#8217;s unique and personalized. Here are some tips to get you started. Personalization – a wedding should be memorable for it’s uniqueness to the bride and groom, that’s why personalization has [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2012/04/Unique-Wedding-Ideas.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2012/04/Unique-Wedding-Ideas.jpg" alt="Weddings, Wedding Ideas, Married, Getting Married" title="Unique-Wedding-Ideas" width="585" height="385" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2053" /></a></p>
<p><font size="3">So you&#8217;re getting married. Congrats! Now for the tough part, planning a memorable day that represents both you and your fiancé in a way that&#8217;s unique and personalized. Here are some tips to get you started.</p>
<p><strong>Personalization</strong> – a wedding should be memorable for it’s uniqueness to the bride and groom, that’s why personalization has become such a large trend.  Personalization means that you take the time find the reason why you choose a specific element to be part of the big day whether it’s a certain color, decoration or flower, there should be a reason why these elements have significance. Ways to personalize include: </p>
<p>·	<strong>Reinventing traditions</strong> – put your own spin on wedding customs and symbols<br />
·	<strong>Incorporate nostalgia</strong> – use items from weddings past to add to the drama of your own<br />
·	<strong>Feature your favorites</strong> – find a way to include all of your favorite things into the big day. This can include foods, music, movies, hobbies, activities and anything else you can think.<br />
·	<strong>Honor your love story</strong> – draw on meaningful moments the two of you have shared over time including how your romance developed and came to be.<br />
·	<strong>DIY</strong> – <a href="http://www.etsy.com/category/weddings?ref=fp_ln_weddings" target="blank">Etsy.com</a> is a great resource to find handmade decorative items to use for the big day and Pinterest is a top place to get </p>
<p>Aside from personalization, other trends include:</p>
<p>·	Pantone’s color of the year is Tangerine Tango and you can expect to see the sunny shade in everything from flowers and linens to bridesmaid dresses.<br />
·	Photo booths at receptions<br />
·	Food stations<br />
·	Vintage<br />
·	Rustic<br />
·	Statement Shoes</p>
<p><strong>Read more:</strong> <a href="http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-themes/choosing-wedding-themes/articles/personalize-your-wedding.aspx#ixzz1oAjPnCHc" target="blank">Wedding Style: Personalize Your Wedding &#8211; TheKnot.com</a> </p>
<p><a href="http://shine.yahoo.com/love-sex/planners-predict-hottest-wedding-trends-2012-205700118.html" target="blank">Planners Predict the Hottest Wedding Trends for 2012 &#8211; Yahoo.com</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.mywedding.com/blog/wedding-basics/top-wedding-trends-what-expect-in-2012/" target="blank">Top Wedding Trends: What to Expect in 2012 &#8211; Mywedding.com</a> </p>
<p><a href="http://www.chicagostyleweddings.com/article-view.aspx?ar=248" tareget="blank">Our Favorite Reception Trends for 2011/2012 &#8211; Chicagostyleweddings.com</a><br />
</font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2012/04/05/unique-wedding-ideas/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Purrfect Gifts For Your Pet</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/12/05/purrfect-gifts-for-your-pet/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/12/05/purrfect-gifts-for-your-pet/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:46:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat toys]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dog toys]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holiday gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[shopping]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=2009</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You’re making your list and checking it twice but have you forgotten something? This year, don’t leave your favorite, furry friend out of the festivities. Here are some cool ways to spoil your little pooch or feline this holiday season. Dogs: Freezy pups Dogs love to crunch on ice cubes so why not make your [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><font size="3">You’re making your list and checking it twice but have you forgotten something? This year, don’t leave your favorite, furry friend out of the festivities. Here are some cool ways to spoil your little pooch or feline this holiday season. </p>
<p><strong><font size="4">Dogs:</font></strong><br />
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Freezer-Pups.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2014" title="Freezer-Pups" src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Freezer-Pups.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="189" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><font size="4">Freezy pups</font></strong></p>
<p>Dogs love to crunch on ice cubes so why not make your pooch a special bone-shaped treat using this cute tray. The possibilities are endless but you could try my dog’s favorite &#8211; peanut butter and bananas. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="https://www.freezypups.com/products/freezy-pups/freezy-pups-kit.html" target="blank">freezypups.com</a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Doggles.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2021" title="Doggles" src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Doggles.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="328" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><font size="4">Doggles</font></strong></p>
<p>The next time your dog sticks her head out the window of your moving vehicle, protect her eyes with these custom Doggles. It’s a funny name but they allow your dog to enjoy the wind blowing through their fur without the fear of getting something in their eyes. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://doggles.com/doggles.html" target="blank">doggles.com</a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Dog-Tornado-Game.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2022" title="Dog-Tornado-Game" src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Dog-Tornado-Game.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="203" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><font-size="4">Dog Tornado Game</font></strong></p>
<p><font size="3">Dogs love a good challenge especially if there is a tasty reward in store for them. Give your dog this fun puzzle game and they’ll be entertained for hours. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://www.organicpetboutique.com/Dog_Magic_Plastic_Dog_Game_Nina_Ottosson_Dog_Gam_p/optorn.htm" target="blank">organicpetboutique.com</a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Dog-Brick-Game.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2023" title="Dog-Brick-Game" src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Dog-Brick-Game.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="202" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><font size="4">Brick Puzzle Dog Toy</font></strong></p>
<p>Another brainteaser for your dog, this puzzle game enhances canine problem-solving skills and provides stimulating activity for dogs of all ages. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://www.puplife.com/products/nina-ottosons-brick-puzzle-dog-toy" target="blank">puplife.com</a></p>
<p><p>
<strong><font size="4">Cats:</font></strong></p>
<p><p>
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Modern-Lounge-Bed.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Modern-Lounge-Bed.jpg" alt="" title="Modern-Lounge-Bed" width="300" height="297" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2035" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center"><strong><font size="4">Modern Lounge Bed</font></strong></p>
<p><font size="3">What kitty wouldn’t like to cat nap in style? These lounge beds are stylish enough to add to the décor of your home and comfy enough to become Fluffy’s new favorite spot. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/likekittysville?ref=pr_shop_more" target="blank">etsy.com</a></font></p>
<p><p>
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Cosmic-Cat-Bubbles.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Cosmic-Cat-Bubbles.jpg" alt="" title="Cosmic-Cat-Bubbles" width="300" height="309" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2036" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong><font size="4">Cosmic Cat Bubbles</font></strong></p>
<p><font size="3">Treat your feline to some mood-enhancing catnip – now in bubble form! Blow these bubbles that are infused with catnip oil and prepare yourself to be entertained while your cat goes berserk with excitement. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/pets/e17e/?cpg=cj&amp;ref=&amp;CJURL=" target="blank">thinkgeek.com</a></font></p>
<p><p>
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/DJ-Cat-Scratch-Board.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/DJ-Cat-Scratch-Board.jpg" alt="" title="DJ-Cat-Scratch-Board" width="300" height="267" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2037" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center"><strong><font size="4">DJ Cat Scratch Turntable</font></strong></p>
<p><font size="3">Encourage the inner musician in your cat by getting them this scratch turntable. Your cat will spend hours scratching their claws on the “record” scratch pad and you might have some free entertainment for your next party. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://www.perpetualkid.com/dj-cat-scratch-turntable.aspx" target="blank">perpetualkid.com</a></font></p>
<p><p>
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Cat-Scratch-Ramp.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/12/Cat-Scratch-Ramp.jpg" alt="" title="Cat-Scratch-Ramp" width="300" height="316" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2038" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center;"><strong><font size="4"Scratch’n Play Ramp</font></strong></p>
<p><font size="3">If your kitten isn’t musically inclined, you could get them this scratch ramp. It has a toy at the end for hours of amusement and the scratch ramp keeps the kitty from turning their claws on your furniture. <strong>Source:</strong> <a href="http://www.fatcatinc.com/products/detail/cat/12/31/610403" target="blank">fatcatinc.com</a></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/12/05/purrfect-gifts-for-your-pet/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Help Your Cat Settle Into a New Place by Buttering it&#8217;s Paws</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/23/help-your-cat-settle-into-a-new-place-by-buttering-its-paws/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/23/help-your-cat-settle-into-a-new-place-by-buttering-its-paws/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 23 Sep 2011 20:38:51 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[anxiety]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat grooming]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[move]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[moving]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new place]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[paws]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=1997</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you just moved to a new place and you noticed your cat is disturbed by his or her unfamiliar surroundings there&#8217;s a simple cure to put them at ease. According to the user kazmataz on Instructables.com, you just need to butter up their paws: &#8220;Hey cat people &#8211; next time you move, butter your [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/09/Cat-Licking-its-Paw.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/09/Cat-Licking-its-Paw.jpg" alt="" title="Cat-Licking-it&#039;s-Paw" width="585" height="380" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1998" /></a></p>
<p><font size="3">If you just moved to a new place and you noticed your cat is disturbed by his or her unfamiliar surroundings there&#8217;s a simple cure to put them at ease. According to the user kazmataz on Instructables.com, you just need to butter up their paws:</p>
<p>&#8220;Hey cat people &#8211; next time you move, butter your cat&#8217;s paws before you let them outdoors for the first time at your new residence. Instead of darting out the door in a panic, the cat will sit down to lick the butter, which gives it a little time to become aware of it&#8217;s surroundings.  Not only is butter a tasty treat, but your cat&#8217;s coat will be glossier, and the grease from the butter will keep furballs at bay.&#8221;</p>
<p>A calm cat with a glossier coat and no furballs? Now I know why my girlfriend named her cat Mr. Butters.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/10-Unusual-Uses-for-Butter/step5/Cat-Training" target="blank"> 10 Unusual Uses for Butter: Cat Training | Instructables.com</a></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/23/help-your-cat-settle-into-a-new-place-by-buttering-its-paws/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Luigi Created from Falling Tetris Blocks</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/13/luigi-created-from-falling-tetris-blocks/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/13/luigi-created-from-falling-tetris-blocks/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:24:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Sara S</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Crazy Videos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[falling bricks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Luigi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mario]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tetris]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tricks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Video]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=1978</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you thought Tetris was all about clearing levels and high scores&#8230; Think again. John Schuepbach shows us just how crazy Tetris can be when he creates a Luigi from Tetris blocks. While some of us barely had the patience to sit through the four minute and forty second video and went straight to the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/09/Tetris.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/09/Tetris-150x150.jpg" alt="" title="Tetris" width="150" height="150" class="alignright size-thumbnail wp-image-1985" /></a><font size="3">If you thought Tetris was all about clearing levels and high scores&#8230; Think again. John Schuepbach shows us just how crazy Tetris can be when he creates a Luigi from Tetris blocks.</p>
<p>While some of us barely had the patience to sit through the four minute and forty second video and went straight to the final image, this Luigi was no easy task.  At over one hour of playing time alone and countless attemps (possibly since creating a similar image of Mario in January!), John went through 500 lines, ending with a score of over $85,000 and an unmistakable image of Luigi.</p>
<p>I don&#8217;t know about you, but this makes me want to break out my old Gameboy and try some new tricks.</p>
<p><span class="youtube">
<object width="425" height="344">
<param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_tipJDjeKuY?color1=d6d6d6&amp;color2=f0f0f0&amp;border=0&amp;fs=1&amp;hl=en&amp;loop=&amp;showinfo=0&amp;iv_load_policy=3&amp;showsearch=0&amp;rel=1" />
<param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" />
<embed wmode="opaque" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_tipJDjeKuY?color1=d6d6d6&amp;color2=f0f0f0&amp;border=0&amp;fs=1&amp;hl=en&amp;loop=&amp;showinfo=0&amp;iv_load_policy=3&amp;showsearch=0&amp;rel=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed>
<param name="wmode" value="opaque" />
</object>
</span><p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tipJDjeKuY">www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tipJDjeKuY</a></p></p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://newslite.tv/2011/09/13/tetris-fan-creates-luigi-from.html" target="blank">newslite.tv</a></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/13/luigi-created-from-falling-tetris-blocks/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Facebook More Important than a Flushing Toilet</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/12/facebook-more-important-than-a-flushing-toilet/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/12/facebook-more-important-than-a-flushing-toilet/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:56:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rants and Raves]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Facebook]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[things you can't live without]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=1972</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Use the toilet or update Facebook with pictures of last night&#8217;s drunken bender? That&#8217;s the pop culture question of our time. It&#8217;s true that Facebook offers a variety of features like giving us an opportunity to connect with old high school friends and online social games like Farmville to name a few but does it [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/09/Toilet-Facebook.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/09/Toilet-Facebook.jpg" alt="" title="Toilet-Facebook" width="585" height="380" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1973" /></a></p>
<p><font size="3">Use the toilet or update Facebook with pictures of last night&#8217;s drunken bender? That&#8217;s the pop culture question of our time.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s true that Facebook offers a variety of features like giving us an opportunity to connect with old high school friends and online social games like Farmville to name a few but does it really supersede the almighty &#8216;Throne&#8217;? </p>
<p>According to London’s Science Museum study, in which they surveyed 3,000 adults asking them what things they couldn&#8217;t live without, Facebook ranked 5th on the list edging out flushing toilets which ranked 9th. </p>
<p>All hope is not lost as these four items ranked before Facebook:</p>
<p>1. Sun<br />
2. Internet Connection<br />
3. Clean drinking water<br />
4. Fridge</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2035634/Facebook-vital-flushing-loo-say-Britons.html" target="blank">Daily Mail</font></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/09/12/facebook-more-important-than-a-flushing-toilet/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Developer Talks About Randolph Tower Rehab, Interior Design</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/07/22/developer-talks-about-randolph-tower-rehab-interior-design/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/07/22/developer-talks-about-randolph-tower-rehab-interior-design/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jul 2011 16:36:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Apartment News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[apartments in downtown Chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Randolph Tower City Apartments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Village Green]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=1960</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[First, the good news: Six months into construction, Randolph Tower is on schedule and on budget. Michigan-based developer Village Green is converting the 45-story neo-gothic tower into 313 apartments, the first of which will be ready for occupancy next winter. Last week, Curbed chatted with Village Green CEO Jonathan Holtzman by phone about the status [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/RAN.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/RAN.jpg" alt="" title="RAN" width="585" height="380" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1961" /></a></p>
<p><font size="3">First, the good news: Six months into construction, Randolph Tower is on schedule and on budget. Michigan-based developer Village Green is converting the 45-story neo-gothic tower into 313 apartments, the first of which will be ready for occupancy next winter. Last week, Curbed chatted with Village Green CEO Jonathan Holtzman by phone about the status of the building and its place in Chicago. <a href="http://chicago.curbed.com/archives/2011/07/18/developer-talks-about-randolph-tower-rehab-interior-design.php" target="blank">Read the full article from Chicago Curbed here</a></p>
<p>Photo and Article Source: <a href="http://chicago.curbed.com/archives/2011/07/18/developer-talks-about-randolph-tower-rehab-interior-design.php" target="blank">Curbed Chicago</a></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/07/22/developer-talks-about-randolph-tower-rehab-interior-design/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>10 Bizarre Deep Fried Foods</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/07/01/10-bizarre-deep-fried-foods/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/07/01/10-bizarre-deep-fried-foods/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 Jul 2011 15:58:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rants and Raves]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried bacon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried Cadbury egg]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried Coca-Cola]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried cookie dough]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried foods]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried kool-aid]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried Oreos]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried pancakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried pickles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried pizza]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[deep fried Snickers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=1936</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Let’s face it – fried foods taste good. Of course we have the classic deep fried foods like french fries, chicken and corn dogs which have become an American staple. People seem to crave that greasy, flavorful crispiness of all things deep-fried. You don&#8217;t have to take my word for it, just look at some [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><font size="3">Let’s face it – fried foods taste good.  Of course we have the classic deep fried foods like french fries, chicken and corn dogs which have become an American staple.  People seem to crave that greasy, flavorful crispiness of all things deep-fried. You don&#8217;t have to take my word for it, just look at some of these bizarre deep fried food creations. I&#8217;m sure that just by looking at them your cholesterol levels will begin to  spike.</p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>1. Deep Fried Oreos</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-oreos1.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-oreos1.jpg" alt="" title="deep-fried-oreos1" width="500" height="319" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1947" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://officialscotthay.blogspot.com/2010/08/deep-fried-oreos.html" target="blank">officialscotthat.blogspot.com</a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>2. Deep Fried Kool-Aid</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/Deep-fried-Kool-Aid.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/Deep-fried-Kool-Aid.jpg" alt="" title="Deep fried Kool Aid" width="593" height="444" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1941" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://www.signonsandiego.com/photos/2011/jun/14/391636/- Deep fried Kool-Aid" target="blank">sandiego.com</a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>3. Deep fried Coca Cola</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-coke.jpeg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-coke.jpeg" alt="" title="deep-fried-coke" width="308" height="500" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1946" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://www.drivinganddining.com/happy-fried-day/deep-fried-coke/- Deep fried Coca Cola" target="blank">drivinganddining.com</a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>4. Deep Fried Cookie Dough</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-cookie-dough.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-cookie-dough-300x225.jpg" alt="" title="deep fried cookie dough" width="300" height="225" class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-1940" /></a>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/george-duran/deep-fried-chocolate-chip-cookie-dough-recipe/index.html" target="blank">foodnetwork.com</a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>5. Deep Fried Cadbury Egg</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-cadbury-egg.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-cadbury-egg.jpg" alt="" title="deep-fried-cadbury-egg" width="493" height="367" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1945" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://foodbeast.com/content/2009/04/13/craving-deep-fried-cadbury-creme-egg/" target="blank">foodbeast.com</a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>6. Deep Fried Pizza</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deepfriedpizza.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deepfriedpizza.jpg" alt="" title="deepfriedpizza" width="400" height="280" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1938" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://offthestripdining.blogspot.com/2008/08/throwback-thursday.html- deep fried pizza" target="blank">offthestripdining.blogspot.com</a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>7. Deep Fried Snickers</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-snickers-bar.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-snickers-bar.jpg" alt="" title="deep fried snickers bar" width="400" height="240" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1944" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://juratesrecipes.blogspot.com/2009/08/deep-fried-snickers-bar.html" target="blank"> juraterecipes.blogspot.com</a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>8. Deep Fried Pickles</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/Deep-fried-pickles.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/Deep-fried-pickles.jpg" alt="" title="Deep fried pickles" width="500" height="434" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1943" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://biggestmenu.com/rdr/WA/Seattle/Peoples-Pub-1596048/Deep-Fried-Pickles-59316" target="blank">biggestmenu.com</p>
<p></a></p>
<p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>9. Deep Fried Bacon</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/batteredfriedbacon.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/batteredfriedbacon.jpg" alt="" title="batteredfriedbacon" width="400" height="282" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1939" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://www.cynical-c.com/2008/11/10/deep-fried-bacon-appetizers/" target="blank">cynical-c.com</p>
<p></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center"><font size="5"><strong>10. Deep Fried Pancakes</strong></font></a></p>
<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-pancakes.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/07/deep-fried-pancakes.jpg" alt="" title="deep fried pancakes" width="500" height="375" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1942" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align:center">Source: <a href="http://www.yumsugar.com/Would-You-Eat-Deep-Fried-Pancake-Stack-1533833" target="blank">yumsugar.com</p>
<p></a></p>
<p><a href="http://malewail.com/25-crazy-deep-fried-foods/" target="blank">Click here for more bizarre deep fried foods</a></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/07/01/10-bizarre-deep-fried-foods/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>7 Summer Recipes to Beat the Heat</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/06/16/7-summer-recipes-to-beat-the-heat/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/06/16/7-summer-recipes-to-beat-the-heat/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:19:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifestyle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[barbecue side dishes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bbq side dish]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pasta salads]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[salads]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[side dish]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[side dishes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[summer foods]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[summer salads]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=1904</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As we welcome the warmer weather, we find ourselves dining alfresco and eating outdoors. The summer heat calls for something cooler and lighter than your typical winter comfort fare. For those of you looking for something unique to pair with your burgers and hot dogs, we’ve got a ton of fresh ideas for cool side [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/Summer-Recipes.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/Summer-Recipes.jpg" alt="" title="Summer-Recipes" width="585" height="380" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1933" /></a></p>
<p><font size="3">As we welcome the warmer weather, we find ourselves dining alfresco and eating outdoors. The summer heat calls for something cooler and lighter than your typical winter comfort fare. For those of you looking for something unique to pair with your burgers and hot dogs, we’ve got a ton of fresh ideas for cool side dishes that are perfect for your next pool party, BBQ or picnic. </p>
<p><font size="4"><strong>1)  Pasta e Fagioli with Pesto</strong></font><br />
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/Pasta-e-Fagioli-with-Pesto-.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/Pasta-e-Fagioli-with-Pesto-.jpg" alt="" title="Pasta-e-Fagioli-with-Pesto-" width="200" height="267" class="alignright size-full wp-image-1924" /></a></a><strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<p>·	1/2 pound(s) borlotti (or cranberry) beans<br />
·	3 cup (s) (loosely packed) basil leaves<br />
·	5 tablespoon(s) lemon  juice<br />
·	2 clove(s) garlic<br />
·	3/4 cup(s) grated Parmesan cheese<br />
·	1 1/4 teaspoon(s) salt<br />
·	1/2 teaspoon(s) fresh-ground pepper<br />
·	1/2 cup(s) olive oil<br />
·	1 tablespoon(s) olive oil<br />
·	3/4 pound(s) pasta , such as strozzapreti or penne<br />
·	1 large (13-ounce) sweet onion, sliced 1/4 inch thick<br />
·	8 ounce(s) green beans, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces<br />
·	1/3 cup(s) white wine<br />
·	8 ounce(s) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved lengthwise</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p><strong>1.</strong>	Cook the dried beans: Place the dried beans in a medium pot and fill with 3 inches of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Remove from the heat and let sit, covered, for 1 hour. Drain the beans, discard the liquid and return the beans to the pot. Add 3 inches of water and 1 teaspoon salt and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer until the beans are tender &#8212; about 45 minutes. Strain, reserving the cooking liquid, and keep warm.<br />
<strong>2.</strong>	Make the pesto: Combine the basil, lemon juice, 1 whole garlic clove, parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in the bowl of a food processor and puree. Add 1/2 cup olive oil in a slow, steady stream and continue to process for 1 more minute until well pureed. Set aside.<br />
<strong>3.</strong>	Cook the pasta: Bring 6 quarts of water to a rolling boil over high heat, in a large saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of coarse salt. Place 3/4 pound of the strozzapreti or penne pasta in the water and cook (maintaining a medium boil) until just al dente &#8212; about 9 minutes. Drain the pasta immediately (do not rinse). Set aside.<br />
<strong>4.</strong>	Cook the vegetables : Finely chop the remaining garlic clove. Heat remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until the onions are deep golden brown &#8212; 5 to 7 minutes. Add the green beans and remaining salt and pepper and cook for 1 minute more. Add the wine, borlotti beans, and 1/2 cup of the reserved bean cooking liquid. Cover and cook until beans are warmed and green beans are tender &#8212; 2 to 3 more minutes.<br />
<strong>5.</strong>	Assemble the dish: Place the pasta in a large serving bowl, add the bean mixture and pesto, and toss. Top with the tomatoes and serve warm.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/pasta-e-fagioli-pesto-3152" target="blank">Delish.com</a></p>
<p><font size="4"><strong>2) Grilled Shrimp, Corn, and Tomato Salad</strong></font><br />
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/Grilled-Shrimp-Corn-Salad-th2.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/Grilled-Shrimp-Corn-Salad-th2-300x300.jpg" alt="" title="Grilled-Shrimp-Corn-Salad-th2" width="300" height="300" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1917" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<p>·	2  limes , can use 1 more lime  if needed<br />
·	4 tablespoon(s) olive oil<br />
·	3/4 teaspoon(s) salt<br />
·	Ground red pepper, (cayenne)<br />
·	1 teaspoon(s) 1 teaspoon ground coriander<br />
·	1/2 teaspoon(s) ground cumin<br />
·	1 pound(s) (large) shrimp, shelled and deveined, with tail part of shell left on if you like<br />
·	3 ear(s) corn, husks and silks removed<br />
·	4 medium tomatoes, each cut in half and seeded<br />
·	2 medium (about 4 ounces each) poblano chiles<br />
·	1 head(s) green or red leaf lettuce, thinly sliced</p>
<p><strong>Directions </strong></p>
<p><strong>1.</strong>	Prepare outdoor grill for covered direct grilling over medium heat.<br />
<strong>2.</strong>	Meanwhile, from limes, grate 1 teaspoon peel and squeeze 3 tablespoons juice . In cup , with fork, mix  lime juice with 2 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon lime peel, and pinch ground red pepper. Set dressing aside.<br />
<strong>3.</strong>	In medium bowl, with fork, mix coriander and cumin with remaining 2 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon lime peel, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and pinch ground red pepper. Brush corn and tomatoes with half of oil mixture. Toss shrimp in oil mixture remaining in bowl.<br />
<strong>4.</strong>	Place corn and whole poblanos on hot grill rack. Cover grill and cook corn and poblanos 10 to 12 minutes or until corn is browned in spots and skin on poblanos is charred and blistered on all sides, turning over occasionally. Transfer corn to cutting board. Transfer poblanos to large sheet of foil. Wrap foil around poblanos and allow to steam at room temperature 15 minutes or until cool enough to handle.<br />
<strong>5.</strong>	While poblanos steam, place shrimp and tomatoes on hot grill rack (or hot flat grill topper). Cover grill and cook shrimp 4 to 5 minutes or just until opaque throughout, turning shrimp over once. Cook tomatoes 4 to 6 minutes or until lightly browned, turning over once. Transfer shrimp to large bowl and tomatoes to cutting board.<br />
<strong>6.</strong>	Remove poblanos from foil. Peel off skins and discard. Cut each poblano lengthwise in half; remove seeds and membranes. Cut poblanos crosswise into thin strips; add to shrimp in bowl. Cut corn kernels from cobs; add to same bowl. Peel off and discard skin from tomatoes. Cut tomatoes into thin strips; add to same bowl. Add 2 tablespoons dressing to shrimp mixture; toss to coat.<br />
<strong>7.</strong>	In another large bowl, toss lettuce with remaining dressing.<br />
<strong>8.</strong>	To serve, place lettuce on platter; top with shrimp mixture.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/grilled-shrimp-corn-tomato-salad-1871" target="blank">Delish.com</a></p>
<p><font size="4">3) <strong>Bell Pepper Slaw</strong></font><br />
 <a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/bell-pepper-slaw.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/bell-pepper-slaw-300x225.jpg" alt="" title="bell pepper slaw" width="300" height="225" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1915" /></a><br />
<strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<p>·	3 tablespoons sugar<br />
·	Kosher salt<br />
·	1/2 cup apple cider vinegar<br />
·	1 1/2 teaspoons celery seeds<br />
·	1 1/2 teaspoons mustard seeds<br />
·	Freshly ground pepper<br />
·	6 bell peppers (red, orange and yellow), cut into thin strips<br />
·	2 stalks celery, finely chopped<br />
·	4 scallions, chopped<br />
·	1/2 head green cabbage, thinly sliced and roughly chopped<br />
·	3 tablespoons whole-grain dijon mustard<br />
·	1/2 cup mayonnaise</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p>Whisk the sugar and 2 teaspoons salt with the vinegar in a large bowl until dissolved. Add the celery seeds, mustard seeds, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, the bell peppers, celery, scallions and cabbage, and toss to combine. Refrigerate at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http:// http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/bell-pepper-slaw-recipe/index.html" target="blank">FoodNetwork.com</a></p>
<p><font size="4"><strong>4) Roasted-Pepper Pasta Salad</strong></font><br />
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/bell-pepper-pasta-salad.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/bell-pepper-pasta-salad-300x225.jpg" alt="" title="bell pepper pasta salad" width="300" height="225" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1914" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<p>·	Kosher salt<br />
·	12 ounces mezzi rigatoni or other short tube-shaped pasta<br />
·	2 bell peppers (red and/or yellow), halved, stemmed and seeded<br />
·	6 cloves garlic, unpeeled<br />
·	1/4 cup almonds<br />
·	1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil<br />
·	1 lemon<br />
·	8 ounces bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)<br />
·	1 bunch fresh basil, leaves torn<br />
·	Freshly ground pepper</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p>Preheat the broiler. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook as the label directs. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Shake off the excess water.<br />
Meanwhile, place the bell peppers cut-side down on a foil-lined broiler pan, add the garlic and broil until charred, 7 to 8 minutes. Transfer the peppers to a bowl, cover and set aside about 5 minutes.<br />
Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Add the almonds and toast, shaking the pan, 4 to 5 minutes. Let cool, then coarsely chop.<br />
Squeeze the garlic from its skin onto a cutting board. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt; mince and mash the garlic into a paste with a large knife. Peel the roasted peppers and slice into strips; transfer to a large bowl. Add the garlic paste and drizzle with the olive oil. Finely grate about 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the bowl and squeeze in all of the lemon juice. Add the bocconcini, basil, almonds, pasta, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste; toss.</p>
<p>Source: <a href=" http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/food-network-kitchens/roasted-pepper-pasta-salad-recipe/index.html" target="blank">Foodnetwork.com</a></p>
<p><font size="4"><strong>5) BLT Pasta Salad</strong></font><br />
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/BLT-pasta-salad.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/BLT-pasta-salad-300x225.jpg" alt="" title="BLT pasta salad" width="300" height="225" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1916" /></a><br />
<strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<p>·	12 ounces corkscrew-shaped pasta<br />
·	1/2 cup milk<br />
·	12 ounces lean bacon<br />
·	3 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks<br />
·	1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme<br />
·	1 clove garlic, minced<br />
·	Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper<br />
·	1/2 cup mayonnaise<br />
·	1/4 cup sour cream<br />
·	4 tablespoons chopped chives or scallion greens<br />
·	5 heads Bibb lettuce, quartered, or 5 cups chopped romaine hearts</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p>Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water as the label directs. Drain and toss with the milk in a large bowl; set aside.<br />
Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels. Discard all but 3 tablespoons drippings from the pan. Add the tomatoes, thyme and garlic to the pan and toss until warmed through; season with salt and pepper. Crumble the bacon into bite-size pieces; set aside 1/4 cup for garnish. Toss the remaining bacon and the tomato mixture with the pasta.<br />
Mix the mayonnaise, sour cream and 3 tablespoons chives with the pasta until evenly combined. Season with salt and pepper. Add the lettuce; toss again to coat. Garnish with the reserved bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon chives. Serve at room temperature.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/blt-pasta-salad-recipe/index.html" target="blank">FoodNetwork.com</a></p>
<p><font size="4"><strong>6) New Potato Salad</strong></font><br />
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/new-potato-salad.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/new-potato-salad-300x225.jpg" alt="" title="new potato salad" width="300" height="225" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1918" /></a><br />
<strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<p>·	3 pounds small red potatoes<br />
·	Kosher salt<br />
·	1 cup good mayonnaise<br />
·	1/4 cup buttermilk, milk, or white wine<br />
·	2 tablespoons Dijon mustard<br />
·	2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard<br />
·	1/2 cup chopped fresh dill<br />
·	Freshly ground black pepper<br />
·	1/2 cup chopped celery<br />
·	1/2 cup chopped red onion</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p>Place the potatoes and 2 tablespoons of salt in a large pot of water. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, until the potatoes are barely tender when pierced with a knife. Drain the potatoes in a colander, then place the colander with the potatoes over the empty pot and cover with a clean, dry kitchen towel. Allow the potatoes to steam for 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, dill, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Set aside. When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them into quarters or halves, depending on their size. Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl. While the potatoes are still warm, pour enough dressing over them to moisten. (As the salad sits, you may need to add more dressing.) Add the celery and red onion, 2 teaspoons of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper. Toss well, cover, and refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to blend. Serve cold or at room temperature.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/new-potato-salad-recipe/index.html" target="blank">FoodNetwork.com</a></p>
<p><font size="4"><strong>7) Antipasti Chopped Salad</strong></font><br />
<a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/AntipastiChoppedSalad.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/AntipastiChoppedSalad-300x225.jpg" alt="" title="AntipastiChoppedSalad" width="300" height="225" class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1913" /></a><br />
<strong>Ingredients</strong></p>
<p>·	1 heart romaine, chopped into bite-sized pieces, about 6 cups<br />
·	6 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced<br />
·	1 (4-ounce) piece sweet or spicy salami, cut into 1/4-inch pieces<br />
·	12 ounces jarred marinated artichokes, drained and chopped, liquid from the jar reserved<br />
·	10 to 12 large fresh basil leaves, chopped<br />
·	Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p>Put the lettuce, cheese, salami and artichokes in a mixing bowl and toss well. Drizzle just enough liquid from the artichoke jar to lightly moisten the salad; add the basil, season with salt and pepper, to taste, and toss to combine.<br />
Transfer the salad to a platter and serve immediately or chill and serve within 2 hours.</p>
<p>Source: <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/claire-robinson/antipasti-chopped-salad-recipe/index.html" target="blank">FoodNetwork.com</a></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/06/16/7-summer-recipes-to-beat-the-heat/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Village Green Resident Spotlight: LeasEquity</title>
		<link>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/06/14/village-green-resident-spotlight-leasequity/</link>
		<comments>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/06/14/village-green-resident-spotlight-leasequity/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Jun 2011 05:39:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Village Green</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Apartment News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[apartments in Chicago]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Chicago apartments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home purchasing program]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[LeaseEquity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Village Green]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Village Green Chicago]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/?p=1893</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[LeasEquity is an exclusive home purchasing program designed to assist you in realizing the dream of owning a home. In exchange for using the LeasEquity program to purchase your home, you will receive a cash back rebate for up to $4,000. This rebate can be used toward anything you want, such as a new High-Definition [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/LeaseEquity-Home-Purchase.jpg"><img src="http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/files/2011/06/LeaseEquity-Home-Purchase.jpg" alt="" title="LeaseEquity-Home-Purchase" width="585" height="380" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1894" /></a></p>
<p><font size="3"><strong>LeasEquity</strong> is an exclusive home purchasing program designed to assist you in realizing the dream of owning a home. In exchange for using the LeasEquity program to purchase your home, you will receive a cash back rebate for up to $4,000. This rebate can be used toward anything you want, such as a new High-Definition TV, a new entertainment system to impress your neighbors, a new car to show off in your new driveway or even just cash in your pocket. You’ll also receive comprehensive help from our dedicated partners from start to finish with the purchase. <a href="http://www.leasequity.com/" target="blank">Click here to learn more or get started.</a></font></p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://blogs.villagegreen.com/chicago/2011/06/14/village-green-resident-spotlight-leasequity/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
