In the 1990s, DVD was the fastest growing technological phenomenon in history. People were buying DVD players faster than their parents bought televisions in the 1950s. Suddenly, high quality digital video made the old VCR look very old fashioned.

Belly Dance (aka Raks Sharki, Raqs Sharqi, and Raqs Baladi), is a form of dance that many are familiar with. But few understand the effects it has on the human body.

I can hear the oompah of a traditional German band and imagine the tangy brown mustard on a hot bratwurst smothered in sauerkraut. Maybe it’s my Teutonic heritage, but I love this time of year.

Help a Special Olympian

Special Olympics Illinois helps more than 19,000 special Olympians participate in athletic events every year. Special Olympians demonstrate sportsmanship and a love of competition that is an inspiration to all of us.