Earlier this year, Christopher received his Master of Science in journalism from Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism. Since then, he has written stories for Chicago Parent, The Good Men Project and Tinley Park Patch. He also is a writer for online publication, The Smoking Section.
While earning his bachelor's degree in international studies from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (aka IUPUI), Christopher traveled to Amman, Jordan as part of a study abroad program. While there, he learned how to smoke argeelah and barter with merchants — two skills he has found useless in the states.
In 2008, Christopher married his wife, Jamie, and honeymooned in Cairo, Egypt, where bartering and argeelah smoking suddenly became useful again.
<b>Beliefs</b><br><i>At Patch, we promise always to report the facts as objectively as possible and otherwise adhere to the principles of good journalism. We also acknowledge that true impartiality is impossible because human beings have beliefs. In the spirit of simple honesty, we encourage editors to reveal their beliefs to the extent they feel comfortable. This disclosure is not a license to inject our beliefs into stories or dictate coverage according to them. Rather, we hope the knowledge our beliefs are on the record will cause us to be ever mindful to write, report and edit in a fair and balanced manner. If you ever see evidence we failed in this mission, please let us know.</i><br> <br> <b>Politics</b><br>Within the context of the two-party system, I tend to support the left more often than the right. That said, the political lines are much blurrier in Illinois, and who I support is now based more on ethical integrity than political policies. I like the non-criminals, which limits my choices significantly.
<b>Religion</b><br>While I was raised in an African Methodist Episcopal church, my father is a Jehovah's Witness, so I have been exposed to varying understandings of Christianity. I also studied Islam extensively and have learned a great deal about Judaism and several other religions. I am a believer in strong moral values and self-accountability, above all else. <br> <b><br> Local Hot-Button Issues</b><br>The political climate in Chicago Heights has always been one of the city's most interesting areas, and having seen three mayors in one term, that doesn't appear to be changing anytime soon. The city is also in the midst of a major restructuring with the addition of a seventh ward and a re-understanding of the mayoral position.
This week it's all about water. Turns out Homewood and the Heights are dealing with similar issues when it comes to the clear stuff. Let's talk about the similarities and the differences between these two water (and money) related problems.
After making it into the top 20 contestants, an energetic Wednesday-night performance did not get Garner into the final round.
A legal advisor to Jackson may have told the congressman not to resign before the election, according to CBS 2 reports.
There are Cook County warrants out for the arrest of several accused criminals in Chicago Heights. Today, Patch lists a few.
After a lively performance of Pink's "Who Knew" impressed the judges, Garner's future on the show could be determined by the viewers.
Jackson is in ongoing talks with federal investigators about a plea deal, Michael Sneed's sources are saying.
Hutchinson's opponent, Tuck Marshall, commended the senator for running a clean campaign.
Unofficial results show the 17-year congressman took the race by a wide margin, even without making an appearance in his district since June.
Mayor Gonzalez told a federal court judge Heights residents and businesses cannot afford the significant water rate increase proposed by Hammond.
Detectives have been investigating the case since Saturday.
A quick run-down of what issues are most important to the candidates.
The go-to guide for all the information Heights residents need to know for Election Day.
Chicago Heights police blotter, Oct. 26-28.
In the Heights area, Best Buy and Super Target begin matching prices of online retailers beginning Nov. 1.
Yes, already — even before Black Friday. We know the Christmas shopping tends to get done earlier every year in Chicago Heights and everywhere else. So, here's your chance to tell your friends and family what Christmas gift you want in 2012.
Police were able to hear recording of the caretaker discussing the woman's bank account with someone else, according to the report.
Chicago Heights police reports, Oct. 24-27.
Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. has no plans to celebrate on election night
Get into the spirit (or ghost) of the season and upload a photo of you or your kid in a cool Halloween costume.
With a powerful rendition of The Fray's "You Found Me," De'Borah made her way into the upcoming live performance round of the hit show.
