Chicago's leading scientific, academic, corporate and nonprofit institutions will launch the world's first year-long science festival for city and suburban residents.

The celebration, announced Tuesday during a press conference at Millenium Park, is called "Science Chicago: Life's a Lab." The event is a collaboration of more than 100 partners spearheaded by the Museum of Science and Industry.

"Going green" at home can mean far more than fluorescent light bulbs, if the green home set up in the lobby of the Merchandise Mart is any indication. The 300-sq.-ft. house, part of the Chicago Market: Living and Giving trade show that closed Wednesday, incorporated over 100 green pieces, including rugs, wallpaper, furniture and artwork.

In addition to demonstrating how homes can be green all over, the display combats the idea that green equals expensive. Many of the furnishings cost less than $50.

Food frequently travels thousands of miles before it reaches the dinner table in the United States. Buying direct from the producer at farmers markets like Green City is one way to reduce your negative impact on the environment.

Although there have been advances in health care access and public insurance, for some children, health care is still a privilege - and dental visits are more of a luxury.

A study released this month by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality said 31 percent of low income children have cavities that go untreated, compared to six percent of other children.

The Windy Citizen talked with leading dentist Indru Punwani, head of pediatrics at the University of Illinois at Chicago's Dental College, about the dangers and prevention of tooth decay in young children.

For many, home is a haven and a refuge from the rest of the world. However, your home can also be the most dangerous place you go.

The more obvious hazards - fire, flood and roof collapse - aside, the houses and apartments of many Chicagoans contain hazardous metals, gases and minerals that can prove fatal. Let's take a look at five ways your home could be trying to bring about your demise and what you can do to remedy the situation.

What you don't know could be killing you.