Toast To Paint

Eventbrite link:<ul><li><a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/toast-to-paint-27783151147" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.com/o/toast-to-paint-27783151147&nbsp;</a></li></ul> Join us for a fun evening painting our beloved Chicago cityscape while sipping your favorite drink!
Cityscape Sip and Paint
Get ready for a super fun evening of creativity and chill vibes! Join us in person to unleash your inner artist while sipping on your favorite drinks. Whether you're a pro or just wanna have fun, this is the perfect chance to meet cool people and make awesome city-themed art. Don't worry about experience—just bring your good vibes and let’s paint the town together!
 We provide step by step instructions, all painting materials, we are BYOB and you take your painting home that night!
We have a free private parking lot just steps from our door.
Call or text us with any questions
Toast To Paint
7185 W Bloomingdale Ave
Chicago IL, 60707
<a href="tel:(312)576-6300">(312)576-6300</a>
toasttopaint@gmail.com
www.toasttopaint.com
Like and follow us to see what we’re painting next 👍🎨🥂

Local Event: Cityscape Sip and Paint 🫟

Cook County

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Cityscape Sip and Paint 🫟

Eventbrite link:https://www.eventbrite.com/o/toast-to-paint-27783151147  Join us for a fun evening painting our beloved Chicago...

Online

Ready to sharpen your digital marketing expertise? Join this free online 45 min session with instructor James Moore to learn how the Digital Marketing Strategy Certificate can help you develop the in-demand skills employers are looking for.&nbsp;During this interactive session, you will:
<ul><li>Explore the program curriculum, requirements, and flexible certificate options.</li><li>Hear directly from a program instructor about the learning experience and real-world applications.</li><li>Get answers to your questions and discover how the certificate can support your career goals.</li><li>As a special thank-you for attending, you'll receive an exclusive discount code to use when you register for the program.</li></ul>
Reserve your spot today and see how DePaul's Digital Marketing Strategy Certificate can help you stay ahead in today's evolving digital landscape.&nbsp;
<a href="https://execed.depaul.edu/product?catalog=DCB_DMS_INFO" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Digital Marketing Strategy Information Session</a>

Local Event: Digital Marketing Strategy Information Session

Chicago

Digital Marketing Strategy Information Session

Ready to sharpen your digital marketing expertise? Join this free online 45 min session with instructor James Moore to learn...

LATTE Theater (Conservatory for Young Adult Creatives)

Fall Acting Workshop IntensiveLATTE’s Acting Training Intensive offers young adult creatives, ages 14 – 28, a chance to be mentored and meet with industry professionals, including: SoloTheater Chicago Scene Study with Ron Keaton, Stage Combat and Choreography artists Tristin Hall and Angela Rak, Pfluger Empathy Movement Method with Felicia Pfluger, Finding the Right Balance Creating your Career in the Arts with Kaitlin Fron, and Dance and Movement with Elise Wallin.
WHEN?
Saturday, September 12th, the Acting Intensive runs from 9:45 AM to 4:30 PM. Read on for a detailed look at the sessions and presenter bios!

Enjoy a day in a supportive, fun, laid-back environment as you learn about acting and careers in the performing arts from industry professionals. Bring a lunch, a water bottle, clothes to move in, and your enthusiasm. $50 for the full day.
Text (708) 655-0989

Sign up: <a href="https://www.lattetheater.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.lattetheater.com</a>
WHERE? 9008 Fairview Dr. (Parking Lot Entrance of Cornerstone Church)
SCHEDULE:
9:45 Arrival. Sign in. Icebreaker. Quick mandatory meeting for parents of creatives under 18.
10:00 SoloTheater Tips, Tricks and Toolbox. Scene Study - Ron Keaton.
11:15 Finding the Right Balance. Creating Your Career in the Arts - Kaitlin Fron
12:30 Lunch – (Bring a Bag Lunch)
1:00 Stage Physicality and the Pfluger Empathy Movement Method -Felicia Pfluger
2:15 Dance and Movement- Elise Wallin
3:15 Water Break and Stretch
3:30 Stage Combat and Choreography– Tristin Hall and Angela Rak
4:30 Day Ends. Auditions for those interested.
DETAILED SCHEDULE
<ul><li>10 AM SoloTheater Tips, Tricks and The Actor’s Toolbox. Scene Study – Ron Keaton Preparation is important key to making your dreams a reality. Ron will take you through his “Actor’s Toolbox,” which includes monologues, photos, resumes, and how to approach someone in the audition process to present yourself for success. Scene study as well!</li><li></li><li>.11:15 Finding the Right Balance. Creating Your Career in the Arts - Kaitlin Fron</li><li>An honest discussion on how to assess and focus on different paths to a career related to music/theatre, and what it looks like to build the life you want while meeting your needs as a human, especially in today's economy. Explore choosing the right degree versus training independently and other paths to consider. Explore how to manage your career and have life balance for all you need to do and all you wish to become on stage!</li><li></li><li>1:00 Stage Physicality and Scene Study - Felicia Pfluger Learn techniques for acting authentically under imaginary circumstances, emotional preparation, and scene creation. In this workshop, students learn to break down script material to understand implicit and explicit meaning with their scene partner. Exercises focus on getting out of the head and into the heart, moment-to-moment character development, blocking, transitions, motivation, and script analysis.</li><li></li><li>2:15 Dance and Movement - Elise Wallin</li><li><ul><li>Develop performance confidence in your creative expression with movement and dance that heightens your character’s theatricality, spatial and ensemble awareness, and just have fun!</li><li></li><li>3:15 Water break - Take a little break and do some self-care. We're here to answer any questions you may have.</li><li></li><li>3:30 Stage Combat, Combat Choreography, Realistic Reactions - Tristan Hall and Angela Rak. </li><li>Gearing your fight to elicit comedy, action, or adventure, this session deals with consent with your stage partner, and Stage Combat falls, punches, and slaps. Learn choreography based on the emotion and dramatic and comedic level you wish to transport your audience with</li><li></li></ul></li><li><ul><li>4:30 AUDITIONS For those interested. Want to be in the LATTE Performance Company? Stick around and read with other cast members in a low-key, no-stress atmosphere for our fall show. Join us for a relaxed, laid-back talk about the program and how you can grow with us on stage. Both inexperienced and experienced actors are welcome to apply. Call 708-655-0989</li><li>Sign up is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.lattetheater.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">www.lattetheater.com.</a></li></ul></li></ul>
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Local Event: Fall Acting Workshop Intensive

La Grange

Fall Acting Workshop Intensive

Fall Acting Workshop IntensiveLATTE’s Acting Training Intensive offers young adult creatives, ages 14 – 28, a chance to be...

Fenwick High School

Come to Fenwick on September 12 to explore a variety of outside scholarship opportunities and learn about available financial aid resources. Register <a href="https://www.fenwickfriars.com/admissions/admissions-event-registrations" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">here!</a>

Local Event: Fenwick High School Scholarship Fair

Fenwick High School Scholarship Fair

Come to Fenwick on September 12 to explore a variety of outside scholarship opportunities and learn about available financial...

Salerno's Pizza & Pasta of Oak Park

Comedian Jeanie Doogan (Zanies, Laugh&nbsp;Factory, Bad Teachers)&nbsp;headlines a night of comedy and dinner at Salernos in Oak Park on Saturday September 12th
Also on the show are rising stars Dan Drees (Lincoln&nbsp;Lodge), Jon Piepel and Emilio Morrone!
Get your tickets on Eventbrite today!

Local Event: Dinner + a Show with Comedian Jeanie Doogan

Dinner + a Show with Comedian Jeanie Doogan

Comedian Jeanie Doogan (Zanies, Laugh Factory, Bad Teachers) headlines a night of comedy and dinner at Salernos in Oak Park on...

AI is changing the way organizations identify funding opportunities and make fundraising decisions—but technology alone doesn’t raise money.
Join us for a free Learn for Life at DePaul webinar, <a href="https://grad.depaul.edu/register/?id=d4b37748-1d6f-4669-add5-df68e2965b6e&amp;utm_source=patch&amp;utm_medium=event_listing&amp;utm_content=Sept_webinar" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Fundraising in the Age of AI: Smarter Strategies for Mission-Driven Organizations</a>, featuring social impact leader and DePaul SCPS alum Bevon Joseph. Drawing on nearly 15 years of experience raising millions of dollars and building mission-driven organizations, Bevon will share practical strategies for using AI to strengthen fundraising efforts while staying focused on what matters most: relationships, readiness, and impact. 
This free, one-hour, virtual <a href="https://grad.depaul.edu/register/?id=d4b37748-1d6f-4669-add5-df68e2965b6e&amp;utm_source=patch&amp;utm_medium=event_desc&amp;utm_content=Sept_webinar" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">session</a>&nbsp;is ideal for nonprofit professionals, social entrepreneurs, grant writers, and emerging leaders looking to increase their organization's impact.
You'll Learn How To:
<ul>
 <li>Use AI to improve grant discovery and fundraising strategy. </li>
 <li>Evaluate whether funding opportunities are truly worth pursuing. </li>
 <li>Avoid common fundraising pitfalls that waste time and resources. </li><li>Combine technology, storytelling, and relationship-building for better results.</li>
</ul>
Visit our <a href="https://scps.depaul.edu/academics/continuing-education/learn-for-life" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">website</a> for more information.

Local Event: Fundraising in the Age of AI

Fundraising in the Age of AI

AI is changing the way organizations identify funding opportunities and make fundraising decisions—but technology alone doesn’t...

Mint Cannabis Forest Park Grand Opening Celebration
Mint Cannabis is officially opening in Forest Park, Illinois, and you’re invited to celebrate with us!
Join us Saturday, September 19 for an all-day Grand Opening celebration packed with great deals, entertainment, activities, and plenty of good vibes.
Come check out the new Mint Cannabis Forest Park location and enjoy:
<ul><li>Up to 50% OFF storewide</li><li>Cannabis brand vendors</li><li>Games &amp; activities</li><li>Giveaways</li><li>Live music</li><li>Grand Opening festivities throughout the day</li></ul>
Whether you're stopping by to check out the new store, meet some of your favorite brands, take advantage of Grand Opening specials, or just hang out and enjoy the celebration, we’d love to have you there.
Doors open at 8:00 AM and the celebration continues until 10:00 PM.
Important Information
Ages 21+ only. A valid government-issued photo ID is required for entry into the dispensary and for cannabis purchases.
Event activities, participating vendors, promotional offers, giveaways, inventory, and discounts are subject to availability and may change.

Local Event: Mint Cannabis Forest Park Grand Opening Celebration

Forest Park

Mint Cannabis Forest Park Grand Opening...

Mint Cannabis Forest Park Grand Opening Celebration
Mint Cannabis is officially opening in Forest Park, Illinois, and you’re...

Mint Cannabis Forest Park Grand Opening Celebration

Harris Theater for Music and Dance

Illinois
 Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame Brings Its 5th Annual Induction Ceremony 
to Chicago’s Harris Theater in Millennium Park for the First Time on September 27th, 2026
for a star-studded celebration honoring 
Illinois music legends and trailblazers across rock, blues, soul, jazz, 
hip hop and beyond, including The Plain White T's, Kevin Cronin of REO&nbsp;Speedwagon, Koko Taylor, Curtis Mayfield, 
 and other musical greats with deep Illinois roots.
Annual 
Induction Ceremony , coming to Chicago for the first time on Sept. 27 at 6
 p.m. at the Harris Theater in Millennium Park. The Hall of Fame 
Induction Ceremony is the Illinois Rock &amp; Roll Museum on Route 66’s 
largest annual fundraising event and celebrates the artists, industry 
leaders, and cultural contributors who shaped Illinois’ musical legacy. 
The event brings together inductees, performers, families, and fans for 
an evening of live music, award presentations, storytelling, and 
historic recognition.
The
 evening will feature live performances by Kevin Cronin, Jim Peterik of 
the Ides of March and Formerly of Survivor, The Plain White T’s, 1960s 
jazz-rock band The Flock, Hot Mix 5 and a special reunion performance by
 The Boyzz, plus several surprise guests to be announced. WGN Radio host
 and Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame member Bob Sirott will host the 
ceremony. Made possible with the support of Old National Bank, Illinois 
Arts Council, Heritage Corridor, and Insperity.
“We’re
 thrilled to bring the Illinois Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame Induction 
Ceremony to downtown Chicago for the first time, and the Harris Theater 
is the perfect stage for it,” said Ron Romero, founder and president of 
the Illinois Rock &amp; Roll Museum on Route 66. “With its incredible 
acoustics and intimate 1,550-seat setting, the venue will help us make 
this year’s celebration an unforgettable night of music, memories and 
Illinois pride. The class of 2026 is our most genre-spanning lineup yet,
 honoring iconic artists and innovators. We can’t wait to bring the 
music community together, celebrate their legacy and, of course, fill 
the room with great music.”
This
 year’s inductees include bands and solos artists Survivor, American 
Breed, Koko Taylor, The Boyzz and The Flock; songwriters Curtis Mayfield
 and Kevin Cronin; radio personality Terri Hemmert; radio station WDRV 
(The Drive); Brunswick Records; and industry leaders. Irving Azoff, Gary
 Richrath, Golden Voice Studio and Triangle Productions. Other honorees 
include Hot Mix 5 and Plain White T’s.
“I’m
 excited that this year’s Illinois Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame event 
will be held in my sweet hometown of Chicago,” said Kevin Cronin, lead 
singer and songwriter for REO Speedwagon. “Ron Romero’s awesome team in 
Joliet has been working since early this year to make September 27th a 
night of big fun. I plan to be there, co-hosting and doing a little 
unplugged set with Jim Peterik. The only thing that could possibly 
change is if one of the Beatles calls and needs me to be somewhere 
else!”
Tickets can be purchased <a href="https://mc.roadtorock.org/links/SscwknSkcYvlkfvWaHDMsBEZJBXsiWMBFEGaxuMhGjVMvVUuYMSDHwuqKMKJZcMKFeWaHDMceWcgME/3764078" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">here&nbsp;</a> and range in price from $100.50, $75.00 and $64.50. Prices include fees.
The Illinois Rock &amp; Roll Museum on Route 66
 is committed to preserving the rich history and contributions of 
musicians, performers and industry leaders who have impacted the music 
world and embodied the creative spirit of Illinois. Located on historic 
Route 66 in Joliet, Illinois, the museum attracts music lovers from 
around the world.&nbsp;
Made possible with the support of Old National Bank, Illinois Arts Council, Heritage Corridor, and Insperity.

Local Event: Illinois Rock & Roll Museum Hall of Fame Ceremony Comes to Chicago!

Illinois Rock & Roll Museum Hall of Fame...

Illinois
 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Brings Its 5th Annual Induction Ceremony 
to Chicago’s Harris Theater in Millennium Park ...

Illinois Rock & Roll Museum Hall of Fame Ceremony Comes to Chicago!

Madison Street Theater

Chicago's premier all-psychotherapist comedy improv troupe returns to Oak Park! The doctors will see you now!Tix at www.therapyplayers.com

Local Event: The Therapy Players: I'm Oak-ie Dokie, You're Oak-ie Dokie!

The Therapy Players: I'm Oak-ie Dokie, You're...

Chicago's premier all-psychotherapist comedy improv troupe returns to Oak Park! The doctors will see you now!Tix at...

The Therapy Players: I'm Oak-ie Dokie, You're Oak-ie Dokie!

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association

An art lecture by Annelise K. Madsen offers an overview of Mary Cassatt: After Impressionism, an exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago open from September 6, 2026 to January 3, 2027. The only American artist to exhibit with the French Impressionists, Cassatt (1844–1926) built a remarkable career as an integral member of the avant-garde whose impact stretched across the Atlantic. She took her art making in new directions in the late 1880s and 1890s—the prime years of her career. Cassatt pursued ambitious and experimental work, exploring the theme of mothers and caretakers with children, creating complex color prints, and undertaking an unprecedented mural commission for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Annelise K. Madsen is the Gilda and Henry Buchbinder Curator, Arts of the Americas, at the Art Institute of Chicago.Our Monday Enrichment&nbsp;programs, on music, art, literature, science and social sciences, are&nbsp;always free to the public, with freewill donations appreciated. &nbsp;
For more information visit our website at <a href="https://www.nineteenthcentury.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.nineteenthcentury.org</a>. The&nbsp;Nineteenth Century Charitable Association is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, and an Illinois nonprofit organization. Our mission is strengthening our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building,&nbsp;The Nineteenth Century Club. The Association was established in 1891 by a group of visionary women who believed education, charitable activities and civic involvement were vital elements in a thriving community. The spirit of the founders continues through grants, scholarships and public programming.&nbsp; We promote life-long learning through dynamic, multi-cultural programs featuring music, art, literature, science and the social sciences.

Local Event: Mary Cassatt: After Impressionism

Mary Cassatt: After Impressionism

An art lecture by Annelise K. Madsen offers an overview of Mary Cassatt: After Impressionism, an exhibition at the Art...

<table>
 <tbody><tr><td>Retired Sgt. Rasul T. Freelain shares his extensive experience working with Sheila von Wiese-Mack and other victims impacted by the phenomenon of child-to-parent violence and abuse (CPVA). Freelain offers a unique perspective regarding this underrecognized form of domestic violence that evidence suggests occurs with surprising frequency in both our local community and throughout the United States. He also discusses his true crime memoir, When Lambs Become Wolves, which he says was written, in part, to help preserve Sheila Mack’s voice and memory. Freelain holds a B.A. in English and M.A. in Educational Policy Studies from UIUC. He has been honored as a Student Laureate by the State’s Governor and teaches for the Illinois Crisis Intervention Team (C.I.T.) Training Unit. Our Monday Enrichment&nbsp;programs, on music, art, literature, science and social sciences, are&nbsp;always free to the public, with freewill donations appreciated. &nbsp;
For more information visit our website at <a href="https://www.nineteenthcentury.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.nineteenthcentury.org</a>. The&nbsp;Nineteenth Century Charitable Association is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, and an Illinois nonprofit organization. Our mission is strengthening our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building,&nbsp;The Nineteenth Century Club. The Association was established in 1891 by a group of visionary women who believed education, charitable activities and civic involvement were vital elements in a thriving community. The spirit of the founders continues through grants, scholarships and public programming.&nbsp; We promote life-long learning through dynamic, multi-cultural programs featuring music, art, literature, science and the social sciences.
 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>

Local Event: The Hidden Crisis of Child-to-Parent Violence and Abuse (CPVA)

The Hidden Crisis of Child-to-Parent Violence...


   Retired Sgt. Rasul T.   Freelain shares his extensive experience working with Sheila von Wiese-Mack   and other victims...

The Hidden Crisis of Child-to-Parent Violence and Abuse (CPVA)

Join acclaimed lecturer and opera aficionado Rick Greenman for a lively and entertaining journey into the scandalous, dramatic, and surprisingly humorous world of Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Through colorful storytelling, fascinating history, and musical excerpts, Rick will bring to life the legendary tale of the charming and unscrupulous Don Giovani, a man whose pursuit of women, pleasure, and trouble ultimately catches up with him. Timed to coincide with Don Giovani at the Lyric opera of Chicago, this program offers an insider’s look at one of the world’s most celebrated operas and its enduring place in our cultural imagination. Whether you are a lifelong opera lover, simply curious about what is happening on Chicago’s cultural scene, or have never thought opera was quite your thing, this engaging presentation promises drama, wit, scandal, history – and some extraordinary music along the way.Our Monday Enrichment&nbsp;programs, on music, art, literature, science and social sciences, are&nbsp;always free to the public, with freewill donations appreciated. &nbsp;
For more information visit our website at <a href="https://www.nineteenthcentury.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.nineteenthcentury.org</a>. The&nbsp;Nineteenth Century Charitable Association is a 501(c)3 charitable organization, and an Illinois nonprofit organization. Our mission is strengthening our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building,&nbsp;The Nineteenth Century Club. The Association was established in 1891 by a group of visionary women who believed education, charitable activities and civic involvement were vital elements in a thriving community. The spirit of the founders continues through grants, scholarships and public programming.&nbsp; We promote life-long learning through dynamic, multi-cultural programs featuring music, art, literature, science and the social sciences.

Local Event: Don Giovanni: Seduction, Scandal, and the Music of Mozart

Don Giovanni: Seduction, Scandal, and the Music...

Join acclaimed lecturer and opera aficionado Rick Greenman for a lively and entertaining journey into the scandalous, dramatic,...

Don Giovanni: Seduction, Scandal, and the Music of Mozart

Chicago Metropolitan Area

West Side

Bucktown-Wicker Park

North Center-Roscoe Village

DuPage County

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

Western Springs

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Square

Lakeview

RowCal - Arlington Heights

Our mission is simple: make HOA management easier, more transparent, and more human—for boards, homeowners, and neighborhoods across the country. We believe strong communities start with clear communication, dependable service, and tools that help everyone stay connected. We combine local expertise with national resources, giving every community the best of both worlds. Our local teams understand the unique needs of each neighborhood, while our broader network provides the systems, technology, and experience to support communities of every size.

Eric DeGrechie

Glenview

Our mission is simple: make HOA management easier, more transparent, and more human—for boards, homeowners, and neighborhoods across the country....

Nickola Wells is a dedicated real estate professional based

Nickola Wells

Nickola Wells is a dedicated real estate professional based in Lake Forest, Illinois, serving clients throughout the Chicago area. With over two decades of industry experience, she provides expert guidance for buyers, sellers, and those navigating complex life transitions. As a RE/MAX affiliated agent, Nickola specializes in comprehensive real estate services, including buyer and seller representation, property listing, and new construction consultation. She offers particular expertise in probate and estate real estate, ensuring that every client receives tailored strategies for their unique property goals. Clients can expect a transparent, supportive experience designed to remove uncertainty from the buying or selling process. By prioritizing clear communication and honest advice, Nickola helps her clients make informed decisions that lead to successful outcomes.

Burr Ridge

Nickola Wells is a dedicated real estate professional based in Lake Forest, Illinois, serving clients throughout the Chicago area. With over two...

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

Our school is dedicated to shaping a generation of successful, creative, and resilient global citizens. Our inclusive community and personalized international curriculum combine the best of both worlds, giving our Preschool, Primary, Middle School and High School students a truly global outlook rooted in Chicago’s rich heritage.

British International School of Chicago, South...

Our school is dedicated to shaping a generation of successful, creative, and resilient global citizens. Our inclusive community and personalized...

Mission Ready: Estate Planning Tips for Veterans

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many overlook how military benefits intersect with real estate and estate planning. Whether you used a VA loan or are looking to pass your legacy to your children, here are critical steps to ensure your plan is as disciplined as your service. 1. The "Trust" Factor with VA Loans If you bought your home with a VA-backed loan, you can generally transfer it into a Living Trust without triggering a "due-on-sale" clause, provided it remains your primary residence. This allows your family to avoid probate—the long, expensive court process of proving ownership after you pass. 2. Protect Your Tax Exemptions Illinois offers significant property tax breaks for disabled veterans. However, these don't always "travel" automatically. If you move your home into a trust, ensure your attorney includes specific language that preserves your right to the homestead and veteran tax exemptions. Also, check if these exemptions are portable for a surviving spouse. 3. Update Your Beneficiaries A common mistake is updating a Will but forgetting the beneficiary forms on life insurance (VGLI) or a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The Rule: A beneficiary form overrides a Will. If an old beneficiary is still listed on your policy, they will likely receive the payout regardless of what your Will says. 4. Secure Your DD214 In the military, if it isn’t in writing, it didn’t happen. Your family will need your DD214 to access almost every benefit, from burial honors to survivor pensions. Keep a digital and physical copy in a fireproof safe and ensure your executor knows the location. About the Author: Cathy Yanda is a USMC Veteran and a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner in Oak Park. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), she is dedicated to helping fellow veterans navigate the complexities of real estate and legacy planning.

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River...

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many...

Cathy Yanda, a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner, defines her business by service, integrity, and deep local roots. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she applies a "mission-first" approach to every client goal, whether you’re buying your first home in Galewood or right-sizing a family estate in Oak Park. For Cathy, real estate isn’t just about the transaction; it’s about navigating the most significant transitions of your life with a steady hand and a clear strategy. Specialized Services Senior Transitions (SRES®): Tailored guidance for clients 50+ who are right-sizing. Cathy understands the emotional and financial complexities of selling a long-time family home and specializes in making the process seamless. Military Relocation (MRP®): Expert support for active-duty service members and veterans. Cathy leverages her own experience to ensure you maximize your benefits and find the right fit, fast. Hyper-Local Expertise: Whether it’s the historic bungalows of Galewood or the Victorian classics of Oak Park, Cathy provides data-driven marketing to ensure your property reaches the right buyers. What Makes Cathy Unique The Veteran Edge: Discipline, logistical precision, and unflappable negotiation. Cathy manages the moving pieces of your real estate transaction so you don't have to. Deep Community Roots: Cathy is more than just an agent; she’s a neighbor. From organizing the annual community Toys for Tots drive to her active membership in the Oak Park Area Association of Realtors (OPAAR), she is invested in the long-term vibrancy of our area. Tech-Forward &amp; Human-Centered: Cathy combines modern technology—including the latest AI-driven marketing strategies—with genuine, one-on-one attention. She believes that while tools make the process efficient, human connection makes it successful. Ready to start your next chapter? Whether you’re scaling up or right-sizing, Cathy brings the experience and the heart to get the job done right. Connect with Cathy today.

Cathy Yanda, a REALTOR® with Baird & Warner, defines her business by service, integrity, and deep local roots. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she...

Discover Oak Park’s Hidden Gem – A living world of beauty

Oak Park Conservatory

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites. Free and open to the public, the Conservatory offers visitors a lush escape into nature with three distinct indoor showrooms — the Mediterranean Room, Tropical Room, and Desert Room — each showcasing a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Outside, the urban gardens continue the experience with native Illinois landscapes featured in the Elsie Jacobsen Discovery Garden and Rubinstein Garden. Sweeps of prairie grasses and native blooms welcome you at the entrance, inviting you to slow down and explore this hidden oasis in the heart of the village. Owned and operated by the Park District of Oak Park, the Conservatory provides year-round opportunities to connect with nature through programs, events, and community initiatives. Highlights include: • Seasonal Events: Enjoy festive gatherings throughout the year such as the Candlelight Walk, Shamrock Scavenger Hunt, and Halloween Fright at Night. • Plant &amp; Garden Markets: Shop a variety of seasonal plant sales, including the Winter Seed Sale, Valentine’s Market, Spring Plant Sale, Perennial Pollinator Sale, Succulent &amp; Cacti Sale, Fall Mum &amp; Bulb Sale, and Winter Greens Market. • Private Event Rentals: Celebrate life’s milestones surrounded by natural beauty. The Conservatory is available for weddings, showers, graduations, birthday parties, memorial services, and other special occasions. • Educational Programs: Participate in a variety of hands-on programs for all ages — from adult gardening workshops to free early childhood nature programs that inspire young explorers. Whether you’re a lifelong plant lover or simply seeking a moment of calm, the Oak Park Conservatory offers a space to reconnect with nature, beauty, and community — right in your own backyard.

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites....

Boutique Event Space for Creative Gatherings|Art Experiences

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL

Studio 928 is a boutique event space in Oak Park and a light-filled creative studio designed for gatherings that feel personal, inspiring, and memorable. Located on the South Boulevard Murals Corridor in the historic district—just steps from the train—our space blends art, community, and celebration. We specialize in hands-on art experiences and creative events for corporate teams, families, and community groups. From paint-and-sip parties and Prairie-style faux stained glass workshops to corporate team off-sites, birthdays, and pop-up events, Studio 928 offers curated experiences with expert guidance and a welcoming atmosphere. Founded and led by artist Cheryl Vargas, Studio 928 is known for its intimate scale, thoughtful design, and experiences that make creativity accessible—no prior art experience required. Ideal for: Boutique private events &amp; celebrations Creative team offsites &amp; corporate gatherings Art workshops &amp; guided experiences Birthday parties &amp; milestone moments Community events &amp; pop-ups If you’re searching for a boutique event space in Oak Park that offers more than just four walls, Studio 928 is where people come to create, connect, and celebrate. 📍 451 South Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 60302

Studio 928 is a boutique event space in Oak Park and a light-filled creative studio designed for gatherings that feel personal, inspiring, and...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Events and Things to Do in Oak Park-River Forest, IL

Thursday, September 10

Digital Marketing Strategy Information Session

SEP

10

12:00 PM

Chicago, IL

Tuesday, September 15

Fundraising in the Age of AI

SEP

15

12:00 PM

Chicago, IL

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Saturday, September 5

Thursday, September 10

Saturday, September 12

Tuesday, September 15

Saturday, September 19

Sunday, September 27

Saturday, October 3

Monday, October 5

Monday, October 12

Monday, October 19

Digital Marketing Strategy Information Session

Fundraising in the Age of AI

RowCal - Arlington Heights

Nickola Wells

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

Oak Park Conservatory

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL