I'm Shamontiel, a full-time, freelance editor, writer and fact-checker. I've been working in print and digital news since 2005.
In my world, a few things are mandatory every day: 10 minutes of morning meditation followed by weight training, dance fitness or pilates; walking my own dog (and neighborhood dogs); plant-based cooking (vegetarian for 20 years); and researching and reading about politics, news and culture. 

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MOST RECENT SUBSTACK POSTS

Photo credit: ChatGPT Photo Generator

1. BLACKTECHLOGY: From foot fetishes to bare-chested women, online users are generating personalized porn ~ Is photo generator software like Pixlr and ChatGPT being used more for work or play?

2. I DO SEE COLOR: With ICE harassing Chicagoans, scheduling home repairs gets complicated ~ From a handyman to a high school friend, how can Black women protect minority men from being attacked?

3. BLACK GIRL IN A DOGGONE WORLD™: Should all dog owners try out a running leash? ~ Why smartphone alerts can teach you a lot about your dog's outdoor temptations

4. BLACK GIRL IN A DOGGONE WORLD™: Yes, dog lovers can laugh at a dog joke too ~ Chocolate Sundaes Comedy, dog sweaters, dog jokes and sensitive dog moms

5. I DO SEE COLOR: Bonding with 'One54 Africa' podcast hosts and Uzo Aduba about teachers butchering our names ~ Are Black American and African names too complicated or are people too lazy to learn them?

Photo credit: Shamontiel L. Vaughn

6. BLACK GIRL IN A DOGGONE WORLD™: 5 tips to prioritize while buying travel dog water containers ~ Is it better to reduce, reuse and recycle other dog supplies before buying new ones?

7. I DO SEE COLOR: Caregivers should learn more about tooth health for elders ~ From infants to seniors, here's why an Ice Case of Emergency (ICE) list comes in handy for caregivers

8. ONE BLACK WOMAN'S VOTE: Senator Bernie Sanders turns blind eye to racism by supporting Graham Platner ~ No, Jimmy Kimmel, Rep. Jasmine Crockett shouldn't have to prove her IQ score to Trump

9. BLACK GIRL IN A DOGGONE WORLD™: Quick! What do I do if a loose, aggressive dog charges after my dog? ~ From umbrellas to vinegar bottles to these protective steps, here's how to keep your dog safe

10. I DO SEE COLOR: Stephen Colbert's debate with Karine Jean-Pierre reminds me of why I stopped watching 'The Late Show' ~ Yes, former President Joe Biden lost one debate against Donald Trump, who was then destroyed in a debate with former VP Kamala Harris