Free Republic

LONDON (Reuters) - A former goat herder and male stripper has sold twice as many records as Madonna in recent weeks to become the first Arab to top the British pop singles chart since records began 44 years ago. "Mashallah (Thank God) - it's beyond dreams. To know that I'm the first Arab to do that, it's a very proud moment," Chico told Reuters in an interview. His debut single, "It's Chico Time", is enjoying its second week in the top spot. Born in Wales of Moroccan parentage, 34-year-old Chico came to prominence on prime-time British television talent show, "X-Factor",...

Media icon Rosie O’Donnell has expanded her reach to include gay family vacations. R Family Vacations was founded by Rosie and her partner, Kelli O’Donnell and travel entrepreneur Gregg Kaminsky. R Family Vacations introduces the very first all-gay and lesbian family vacation packages. “We’re creating vacations where gays and lesbians can bring their kids, their friends, and their parents. And, this is the first cruise that will cater to both gays and lesbians,” said Gregg Kaminsky. Both O’Donnell and Kaminsky stopped by the Windy City Times offices when they were in town for a travel event. “This is not a...