Toast To Paint

We will teach you how to paint our “Summertime” painting on Saturday, August 29th, 2026! Bring some wine (or whatever you’re sipping on) and enjoy a lighthearted art lesson! No art skills??? Don’t worry! We teach you step by step in a fun, no judgement zone 🚫 while we relax and listen to music 💃🏻🎨
Link: <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/o/toast-to-paint-27783151147" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">eventbrite.com/o/toast-to-paint-27783151147</a>
Contact us with any questions or to RSVP with us directly
Toast To Paint 7185 W Bloomingdale Ave Chicago IL, 60707 (312)576-6300 toasttopaint@gmail.com <a href="https://www.toasttopaint.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">toasttopaint.com</a>
Like and follow us to see what we’re painting next 👍🎨🥂
#summertimechi #artinchicago #easybreezy #wepaint #summerfun

Local Event: “Summertime” Sip and Paint 

Cook County

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

“Summertime” Sip and Paint 

We will teach you how to paint our “Summertime” painting on Saturday, August 29th, 2026! Bring some wine (or whatever you’re...

Madison Street Theater

Annual showcase and dance social featuring Salsa, Bachata, and ChaCha!
Desueño
 Dance is delighted to host an evening of performances and a dance party
 on Sunday, August 30th, at Madison Street Theater in Oak Park. Join us 
for an evening of choreography featuring our team and special guests. 
The show will be immediately followed by social dancing including Salsa,
 Bachata, and Cha-Cha.

Local Event: Evening of Dance with Desueño Dance - Salsa, ChaCha, Bachata

Evening of Dance with Desueño Dance - Salsa,...

Annual showcase and dance social featuring Salsa, Bachata, and ChaCha!
Desueño
 Dance is delighted to host an evening of...

Evening of Dance with Desueño Dance - Salsa, ChaCha, Bachata

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...

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...

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Forest Park

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, August 29

Sunday, August 30

Thursday, September 10

Saturday, September 12

Tuesday, September 15

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