Gary Mancuso's (garymancuso) Blog

It's going to be a busy and festive night in both Oak Park and Forest Park this Monday evening July 4th, 2011 as both Villages are planning festive firework shows. I've attended both these events over the years however, not simultaneously because that would defy the law of physics. Both Villages ...

While fighting the option to return to your emotions, you must look at your home objectively.  This can only be difficult if you are allowing your emotions to get the better of you. After years of living in the same home, clutter collects in such a way that may not be evident to the homeowner. Ho...

Well, it's that time of year again. This weekend June 3rd and 4th, 2011 in Forest Park. I am referring to the very popular Forest Park Sommer Fest. Hosted by The Forest Park Chamber of Commerce & Development, this hip summer festival features live music, a beer garden, a food court starring popul...

Here's some intersting news. The Village of Forest Park has partnered with Vintage Tech Recyclers and the West Cook County Solid Waste Agency to bring the convenience of recycling electronic equipment to our hometown as part of an on-going weekly event. Effective immediately, you may dispose of y...

Saturday, May 14 & Sunday, May 15 10am-5pm It's that time of year again. I am talking about "Art In The Park At Mills Park". A wide variety of artists will have exhibits on display which will include ceramics, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, sculptures, and woodwork. Ther will be plenty o...

  Saturday, May 7th, 8am-4pm.  Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park, Il. 22nd Annual Plant Sale With the weather forcast looking great for this weekend I encourage you to attend this event and get a good start on your spring planting. This annual fundraiser is sponsored by the Friend...

  Having lived in the Oak Park area for most my life I have noticed that one of Oak Park's most famous landmarks happens to be also one of Oak Park's most visited attractions. I am talking about the Lake Theater on Lake St in downtown Oak Park. I remember as a youngster being dropped off  along ...

As signs of sunshine start to peek through the fog of winter, we grow nearer to the season marked by the hum of lawnmowers and the smell of freshly churned soil. Spring, and the joys (or chores) of landscaping, are nearly upon us. Depending on your point of view, gardening and yard work can eithe...

As anyone who's tried to sell a single family home or a condominium in the Oak Park / River Forest / Forest Park area knows that the residential real estate market is still sluggish. You can still sell a residence today but, you just have to be patient, and you absolutely have to set the right as...

Don't Move Money Around. When a lender reviews your loan package for approval, one of the things they are concerned about is the source of funds for your down payment and closing costs. Most likely, you will be asked to provide statements for the last two or three months on any of your liquid ass...