Forest Park Local News

Across Illinois, IL|News|21h

New Mutant, Immunity-Resistant Virus Has Spread To Illinois

The highly mutating coronavirus strain can avoid vaccines, the CDC said.

Andrea Earnest, Patch Staff

New Mutant, Immunity-Resistant Virus Has Spread To Illinois

Patch Local Partner

Laurie Christofano, Realtor | RE/MAX In The Village

Patch Local Partner

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Laurie Christofano, Realtor | RE/MAX In The Village

Your next chapter, made simple.

Buying or selling a home isn’t just about real estate, it’s about your life. Maybe your house feels too big now that the kids are grown. Maybe you’re craving less yardwork and more freedom. Or maybe you need more room for your busy, growing family. Whatever your “why,” I’m here to make the move easier, less stressful, and more rewarding.

Since 2007, I’ve guided hundreds of Chicago-area buyers and sellers through one of life’s biggest transitions. My clients count on me for:

✨ Clear guidance at every step so you’re never left guessing.
✨ Smart strategies that get results, from creating buzz before your listing goes live to negotiating the strongest offers.
✨ Local know-how, with deep roots in Oak Park, Elmwood Park, River Forest, and across the near west suburbs.
✨ Options that fit your lifestyle, whether that’s a condo with zero maintenance, a ranch with no stairs, or the perfect family home in a welcoming neighborhood.

When we work together, my focus is simple: your goals, your peace of mind, and your next chapter.

📞 630-248-1976
📧 laurie@OPRFhomesforsale.com
🌐 OPRFhomesforsale.com
🏡 RE/MAX In The Village | Chicago + Suburbs

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Forest Park|News|3h

🌱 Patch AM: 1-Day Professional Fashion Workshop: The Professional Garment Fitting Workshop and 11 more events

Also, don’t miss Trombone Treat on the Forest Park Patch calendar

Patch AM Team, Patch Staff

🌱 Patch AM: 1-Day Professional Fashion Workshop: The Professional Garment Fitting Workshop and 11 more events

Across America, US|Sponsored|Aug 20

5 Places That Will Literally Pay You If You Just Ask Nicely

From banks to broadband, these companies may hand you cash or perks — all it takes is asking the right way.

The Penny Hoarder, Brand Partner

5 Places That Will Literally Pay You If You Just Ask Nicely

Patch Local Partner

Patch Local Partner

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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 & Garden Markets: Shop a variety of seasonal plant sales, including the Winter Seed Sale, Valentine’s Market, Spring Plant Sale, Perennial Pollinator Sale, Succulent & Cacti Sale, Fall Mum & 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.

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Forest Park|News|1d

🌱 Patch AM: How a sudden turf fee hike could sideline Forest Park soccer families

Make time for 1-Day Professional Fashion Workshop: The Professional Garment Fitting Workshop on the Forest Park Patch calendar

Patch AM Team, Patch Staff

🌱 Patch AM: How a sudden turf fee hike could sideline Forest Park soccer families

Across Illinois, IL|News|20h

Some Blame Taxes As Illinois Grows On Paper But Loses Residents

Illinois' population has continued to narrowly grow this year, despite a significant number of cities losing residents.

The Center Square Illinois, News Partner

Some Blame Taxes As Illinois Grows On Paper But Loses Residents

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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 & 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.

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