REEM HASSABALLA, HINSDALE The Bayan Hassaballa Foundation She demonstrates strength, courage, and concern for others. Meet the hero inside our local mom...... December is a special month for Reem because that is when her angel, Bayan, was born 19 years ago. Bayan seemed to be developing as any other toddler, until she was three. “Then she became off-balanced when she walked and she was not able to track with her eyes by kindergarten,” Reem shares. “Her immunity was very weak and she was afflicted with many horrible pulmonary infections.” Bayan was diagnosed with A-T at six and was confined to a wheelchair by age 10. A-T (Ataxia Telangiectasia) is a very rare inherited disorder that affects the nervous system, immune system, and other body systems. By age 12, Bayan also suffered from Lymphoma and passed shortly thereafter. The death of a child can be an unbelievable challenge, but Reem has chosen to face it with courage and strength for her four other children. Reem’s highest priority is teaching her children the importance of giving back and it is the very reason she established The Bayan Hassaballa Foundation in 2009. “Rising up and continuing to strive to make the world a little better helps me grieve and makes me realize that my angel is living on in my heart,” Reem says. “Creating this Foundation helped me bring out this inherent love that I have for philanthropy.” To participate in events or donate to the foundation, visit www.ourangelbayan.org. –Kristen Kucharski, Photo by Mike Mantucca Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #SuburbanHero

BACK AWAY FROM THE CABERNET Can you believe it’s already December…the month of countless parties, gift giving, and dare I say drinking?? Who doesn’t love a Cabernet on a cold winter’s night or at a holiday party? I get it, it’s comfortable and familiar, but why not take a few risks when you need to bring a bottle to a party or as a last minute gift to give to your second cousin twice removed that you didn’t think you would get to see this month? Dare to be different this holiday season and back away from the Cabernet! Ever hear of a Brachetto d’ Acqui? It’s a party in your glass! This is such a charming wine that few people know about. It is named for the Brachetto grape as well the Acqui district in southern Piedmont not far from the town of Asti in Italy. The trick here is to drink this young (within a year of vintage is ideal) to maintain its super freshness and brightness. The wine is generally medium-bodied and tends to be sweet. It is usually lightly sparkling or what the Italians call “frizzante.” I opened a bottle of Cavallero Brachetto d’ Acqui 2014 DOCG. They did a beautiful job representing what the grape is capable of. This had an appealing cranberry color with aromas of strawberries, black raspberries, violets, and orchids. This Brachetto had delicious flavors of black cherry, strawberries, and watermelon. It was incredibly refreshing and perfect to pair with roasted nuts, amaretto cake, or chocolate. Being only 6% alcohol content you can easily put this down - but I’d enjoy it. Unfortunately the one I tasted is not imported in the states but they sell Brachetto d’ Acqui at larger wine shops. If you don’t think everyone on your holiday gift list appreciates bubby, here are some honorable mentions that impress without breaking the bank. Try a Vranac from Bosnia or a Plavac Mali from Croatia. These red wines are super interesting, delicious, and sure to please! Sláinte! ABOUT THE WRITER Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles! Visit thechicagowino.com for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino

'TIS THE SEASON TO GIVE – THE FIRST OF TWO SEASONAL GIFT GUIDES.... Give the gift of unique style & awesome fun this holiday season with these fabulous gifts– all found locally! This gift guide appears in the November 2015 issue of Glancer Magazine. Watch for our December gift guide arriving December 1, 2015 with a new set of dazzling gifts. 2015 Gift Guide, November 2015

THE SEASON OF GIVING Welcome to the season of all things festive and fun! This month is a time to give thanks to those near and far, and to also start your holiday shopping. That is why you’ll love all that’s on the pages of this month’s issue! From our annual gift guide themed “100 Gifts–All Local” starting on page 20 to our inaugural “Giving Tree” where we highlight area non-profit organizations that are in need of your donation this holiday season on page 27. We know that many of our readers love to help those in need each season, but are not sure where to go to give. That is why the “Giving Tree” will come in handy! Please share it with your friends and family and encourage them to also give back– no donation is too small. This listing is also available online to make it easy for you to share in social media and beyond. Simply take a minute to visit www.glancer magazine.com. When you donate this season you will be helping many individuals in need. Our “100 Gifts–All Local” annual gift guide will leave you smiling from ear to ear because these gift ideas are pretty amazing! Not only are they unique, but they can be found nearby, saving you lots of time. From theater tickets and annual park memberships, to gift baskets, jewelry and apparel– you will for sure find something for that hard-to-shop-for loved one on your list. We truly hope you enjoy this issue! Enjoy the season and all that it represents. Happy Holidays to you and yours. Lindy Kleivo Publisher / Editor Celebrating 14 Years In Local Publishing A West Suburban Focus, Featuring Your Community #PublishersNote

ROBIN RUBIN, NAPERVILLE Tzofim Friendship Caravan With the holiday season right around the corner, Robin Rubin reflects on her Jewish heritage and the belief in the notion of Gemilut Chassadim - Hebrew for "acts of loving kindness"- during the holidays and all year long. “These acts are to emphasize service toward others and the person doing the service benefits personally by positively affecting their world by their acts,” Robin shares. “Bringing the Israeli Scouts to visit Naperville for two days every year is one of my favorite ways to perform Gemilut Chassadim!” Robin, along with her teenage daughter, Jaci, serves as the coordinator and family ambassador for Congregation Beth Shalom in Naperville. Ten teenage Israeli scouts travel to the United States each year via the Tzofim Friendship Caravan program. Robin works to connect the teens with host families as the scouts travel through the U.S. and speak about life in Israel, their own families, and Jewish values; all the while learning about American traditions. Since accepting this role in her Synagogue, Robin and her daughter have traveled to Israel. “The peace, beauty and tolerance of that country will never be forgotten,” she says. For more information on the Tzofim Friendship Caravan, visit www.napershalom.org or www.israelscouts.org. –Kristen Kucharski, Photo by Mike Mantucca ​ Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #SuburbanHero

RAPTOR RIDGE AND THEIR PINOTS The holidays are upon us and though they can be stressful for many, it’s always a good idea to relax and contemplate all of the things in life you’re grateful for. I’m sure your thoughts will lean towards the simple things; your family, friends, Chicago construction (because who doesn’t love driving in that during rush hour), or perhaps a good bottle of wine. Raptor Ridge has some lovely bottles of wine. Named for their location on a ridge in the Chehalem Mountains AVA, Raptor Ridge (and their neighbors) is a haven for their native raptors. I opened up their Pinot Noir, Barrel Select, 2013 (Willamette Valley). Barrel Select had blended aromas of cherry, spice, and tobacco with classic but delicious flavors of sour cherry, raspberries, black tea, followed by this specific and unique earthiness only gained in Oregon. I’d decant this bottle as the aromas and flavors will soften up and the wine will become even more expressive. Given the fact a good Pinot will cost you a bit, this retailing for $30 is a great deal! Feeling very grateful at this point I felt the need to open up their next bottle of Pinot Noir - Estate, Chehalem Mountains, 2012 ($45). With fewer than 500 cases produced I knew I was in for a treat. This is a Pinot with a turbo....A huge nose of ripe plum, bold black cherries, and nutmeg but as this opens up much more is offered. I noted a fuller bodied wine with seductive flavors of juicy light red fruits, lavender, and sweet spices. This wine will leave you wanting more (and I did!). Sláinte! ABOUT THE WRITER  Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles! Visit thechicagowino.com for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino #GlancerMagazine #DiningCabaret #TheChicagoWino #EricMcMillan #FeaturedBlog #November2015

Get to know these fabulous west suburban families. From favorite places to shop and dine, to where you will find them on a Sunday evening, each has something unique to share about the community they call home. The Kashayp Family NAPERVILLE – After moving from Bombay, India to Wheaton in 1999, the Kashyap’s moved to Naperville in 2001 and have called it home for the past 14 years. Nandan, Gauri, and their daughters, Rakhee (21) and Riddhi (17), love celebrating all Holidays because it’s a great excuse to have fun! During this time of year, the family celebrates Navratri, Karva-Chauth, Dushera, Diwali, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. “It’s amazing how all holidays across the world decipher the importance of family and togetherness,” Gauri shares; and adds, “Ohana means family, and that means nobody gets left behind or forgotten." Like most west suburban families, the Kashyap’s are thickly involved in the community from the Neuqua Valley Badminton team and Naperville Volleyball clubs, to the local YMCA; as well as the Naperville Park District Cricket League, the Dolphins. They love dining at Shinto’s in Naperville and reconnecting over tea while sharing stories about their busy week or past holiday memories; such as the time they visited a Children’s Orphanage Home in Bombay, India. “We have never experienced the happiness and gratefulness we saw in the eyes of the children,” Gauri says. “Moments like this have helped us realize the importance of family and have helped us appreciate the time we spend together.” –Kristen Kucharski ​ What do you love most about the holiday season? Good food, good drinks, good friends, good times. The celebration of all festivals – Indian and American - and enjoying the importance of culture, tradition and values imparted through them. What is a favorite holiday tradition? Lighting our home with candles (Diya’s). The significance of that is to show the victory of good over evil. We also like driving around and looking at the Christmas lights together, and writing really emotional cards to each other which make us tear up in gratitude that we have each other. What is your family's favorite holiday decoration? Rakhee and Riddhi’s hand-made Diya’s (lamps) because they remind us of their childhood days. The Vossoughi Family HINSDALE – Kamiar treasures his personal experiences of growing up in Hinsdale, so when his wife, Sarah, and he were considering moving from their Lincoln Park home a couple of years ago, he knew exactly where to find a great house, in the perfect neighborhood, with a wonderful school, close to his own mom and dad. Shortly after moving back to Hinsdale, the couple joined the Salt Creek Club and thoroughly enjoyed the swimming and tennis this past summer. With their 6-year old son, Zander, now at The Lane School, Sarah has taken an active role in the PTO, chairing the school’s Rotary Run, while also serving as a member of the Hinsdale Junior Women’s Club and volunteering for the Hinsdale Historical Society Kitchen Walk. When not working or volunteering, the family enjoys the Fuller House Bar in Hinsdale where they are always certain to see a familiar face while watching their beloved Cubs in a fun and lively atmosphere. Now that the holidays are near, the Vossoughi’s look forward to having family in town. Last year Kamiar’s father gave him a watch from his personal collection, which symbolized so much more than a gift; but rather represented the celebration of old traditions. Kamiar plans to pass this on to his own son someday; when he is old enough to fully appreciate what they holidays are truly about. –Kristen Kucharski What do you love most about the holiday season? The holiday spirit! Everyone seems a little more light-hearted & happy. The store fronts and houses are all lit up and carols are playing. It’s all-around a wonderful time of year! What is a favorite holiday tradition? Making gingerbread cookies. We do it every year and share them with family and friends. What is your family's favorite holiday decoration? Our fresh cut Christmas tree. We love putting on the Christmas carols and decorating it all together and then every day/night lighting it up and enjoying it all season long! The Denz Family ST. CHARLES – When asked about living and working in the Tri-Cities area, Cheryl Denz doesn’t skip a beat. “Doug and I were both born at Delnor Hospital and graduated from St. Charles High School. We consider ourselves ‘townies’ and couldn’t imagine raising our kids anywhere else.” Excited to be part of the area’s growth and development and having a deep connection to community, the Denzes have offices for their business, Riverview Counseling Services, Ltd. in both Batavia and St. Charles. While Cheryl has been a child and family therapist for over 20 years, Doug quit his job in the pool and spa industry for what Cheryl calls “the most important job” - raising their children. Molly is ten and Josh is eight and both attend Wildrose Elementary. In addition being a stay-home dad, Doug serves as President of the neighborhood association, as well as is a committee member for the St. Charles Downtown Partnership. Although busy, Cheryl says their family is passionate about volunteering (every other week they do volunteer work for area homeless shelter, Lazarus House), but also about taking time off from the hustle and bustle of daily life. “We love spending our weekends boating, building campfires and having get-togethers with our neighbors.” The Denzes motto is “Dream Big, Hold Tight and Dig Deep”, saying they teach their children (and remind themselves) that things worth doing do not always come easy. “Perseverance is important!” -Tiffany Schultz Favorite Local Establishment: Some of our favorite eateries are destinations for our family bike rides. We love stopping for breakfast at Abby’s or grabbing a sandwich from The Bend General Store. Most Memorable Family Vacation: New Buffalo, Michigan. Family fun with days spent at the beach and nights filled with Rumi-cube and root beer floats. On Sunday Night You’ll Find Us: Curled up on the couch with popcorn, a movie and a warm fire. The Krieghbaum Family KANELAND – Meet Delmar Krieghbaum. After spending his first 20 years on a farm between Kaneville and Big Rock, he moved to Sugar Grove and has been here ever since, which is 71 years, to be exact. “I moved because there was a job driving truck from Sugar Grove to the Chicago stockyards.” Delmar says he and wife, Ruth, met “under a street lamp at the corner of Maple and Main” and were married for 61 years before her passing in 2006. He is the proud father of Ken, Connie, Karen, Caroline and Karla and boasts 13 grandchildren and 21 great grand children. “All of my kids still live in the area,” says Delmar noting that, that is a testament to how great of a community we have in the Kaneland area. When asked about fond memories, Delmar has many, but most notably simple things like helping build baseball diamonds (one behind John Shields Elementary school), umpiring little league and volunteering for the Fire Department for over 50 years. Admittedly, at 91, Delmar has slowed down a bit, but he still drives to lunch with friends a few days per week, watches the Cubs, and is also the Secretary-Treasurer for the Kane County Firefighters Death Benefit fund, which pays benefits to spouses of firefighters who have died. The key to his longevity, “I do whatever my doctor tells me, I’ve got good friends and family and I’m really interested in people and what they have to say. It’s pretty simple.” -Tiffany Schultz Favorite Local Establishment: Maple Park Pub and Grill. I meet the guys and have a sandwich about once a week. Favorite Sugar Grove Memory: June 3, 1945: marrying my wife at the Methodist church in town. Favorite thing about my Neighborhood: I have a real good neighbor who picks up my newspaper every morning. Little things like that help me a lot. The Colangelo Family WHEATON – 16 years ago Jason and Tracy moved from Lyons when their son Zach was just 2 in search of a great town to raise a family with the added bonus of an excellent school district. They have thoroughly immersed themselves in Wheaton over the years through Jason’s volunteer efforts as coach for the Wheaton Rams football teams and the Wheaton Park District baseball team; as well as, Tracy’s commitment serving on three volunteer boards for daycare associations over the last 12 years. Their sons, Zach, a Wheaton North Baseball player; and Joey, a Wheaton North Football player, have also graciously shared their talents by volunteering with the Buddy Baseball program through the Wheaton Jr. Woman’s club. With the upcoming holidays, the Colangelo’s are looking forward to making more family memories together by eating at their favorite local authentic Mexican restaurant, Mi Casa, or perhaps purchasing impromptu tickets to a fun local event, such as seeing the Globetrotters, as they have in years past. They value time together over gift giving and their best memories thus far have included a 7-night cruise to Honduras, Belize and Cozumel where they zip lined through the rain forest, went tubing in caves, kayaked in a lagoon, snorkeled, and swam with the dolphins. Colangelo family time is always the best time! –Kristen Kucharski What do you love most about the holiday season? We love seeing family and friends What is a favorite holiday tradition? Our family always gets together and celebrates on Christmas Eve with the extended family. Now, that our boys our older, we go to the movies on Christmas Day. What is your family's favorite holiday decoration? The Christmas tree, of course! I love adding the ornaments to the tree and the memories they bring to mind. The lights on the tree make the room warm and festive. #GlancerMagazine #FamilyTime #November2015 #FabulousFamilies #KristenKucharski

From cupcakes and more to candy galore, this list of sweet treats found locally will fill your holiday guests with complete happiness. Here are 7 Spectacular Sweet-Filled Places in the western suburbs: SWEET-FILLED PLACE #1 The Sweet & Savory Spot, Westmont A bakery and bistro putting a modern twist on tradition. Danielle is the baker and Dan is the Butcher and together they are "The Sweet & Savory Spot". Danielle is a bit of a hurricane in the kitchen and Dan is the calm, cool guy jamming to metal music in the back. See website for unique sweet treats. 31 N Cass Ave, Westmont, www.thesweetandsavoryspot.com SWEET-FILLED PLACE #2 Harner's Bakery, Aurora Truly one of those good old fashion bakeries that is from a by gone era offering an extensive line of homemade baked goods that are still made from scratch are and baked in their own ovens. From homemade sweet rolls and donuts to a wide variety of delicious cookies, pies , breads and cakes– it’s sweet indeed! 10 W. State St., North, Aurora, www.harnersbakery.com. SWEET-FILLED PLACE #3 Suzette’s Creperie, Wheaton A time-honored holiday tradition. You’re invited to bring your sisters, mom, grandmothers and friends to Christmas Tea at Suzette's. Come experience this special event in the wonderful, expanded dining room, decorated beautifully for the holidays. What a special way to welcome this cherished time of year. Nov 28-Dec 31. 211 West Front St., Wheaton, www.suzettescreperie.comscreperie.com SWEET-FILLED PLACE #4 Smallcakes, St. Charles This unique bakery specializes in gourmet cupcakes, mini cupcakes, jumbo cupcakes, and various other baked goods. Signature flavors include Caramel Crunch, Red Velvet, Birthday Cake and more. Gluten-free cupcakes available on Fridays and there’s also a party room available if you’re planning a get together. 117 W. Main St., St. Charles, Suite 120 Rev 3 www.smallcakesstcharles.com SWEET-FILLED PLACE #5 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, South Naperville At this local favorite you’ll discover a fantastic variety of yummy chocolates and confections to satisfy cravings of even the most ardent chocoholic! From dipped apples to fine chocolate, you’ll love it– but don’t leave before getting your free sample. 2835 Showplace Dr., Ste 111, Naperville, www.rmcf.com/IL/Naperville50672/ SWEET-FILLED PLACE #6 Naper Nuts & Sweets, Naperville This fun spot is keeping a Naperville tradition alive by offering Cock Robin English Toffee seasonally. This toffee is made by the Fredenhagen Family and is their secret family recipe from the original Cock Robin Restaurant in Naperville. It is provided in their bulk chocolate case as well as in pre-packaged boxes, a perfect gift for the winter holiday season. 10 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville, www.napernutsandsweets.com SWEET-FILLED PLACE #7 Creme Cakeshop & Bakery, Lisle A special order bakery loved by many. The head pastry chef trained in Europe where he learned the fundamentals of French and European pastry. He then spent years perfecting his art in some of the leading bakeries in Chicago. Yum! 6470 College Rd. Lisle, www.cremecakeshop.com Watch For A Uniquely Themed “7 Spectacular”  List In Every Monthly Issue. View Upcoming Issue Themes Online Under Editorial. Share this List On facebook & Twitter www.glancermagazine.com #7SpectacularList

​SUBURBAN HERO – Dave Larson, Downers Grove Bridge Communities, Sleep Out Saturday Dave and his wife, Julie, have lived in Downers Grove for over 20 years. They were attracted to the west suburbs by the variety of people, closeness of the community and the opportunities to raise a family. Finding a strong spiritual connection through Christ Church of Oak Brook was an unexpected bonus; and learning about the less fortunate members of their community was discovered through their son, Miles, after he participated in ‘Sleep Out Saturday’ through a youth group at church. “It was a great opportunity for him to learn about the reality of homelessness in DuPage County and generate financial support for Bridge Communities’ programs helping those with needs,” Dave shares. “There are more than 1000 participants signed up so far this year’s event and we expect to have 2,000 in over 20 communities. There will also be a community Sleep Out location where anyone can come - this year it will be in downtown Naperville at Central Park.” Beyond ‘Sleep Out Saturday’, Dave also serves as a Director on the Board and participates on the mentor team for Bridge Communities. He supports a homeless family towards a better future by providing encouragement, budget training and help with life skills. In addition, he helps link families to critical resources; such as, career counseling, health care, tutoring, transportation, etc. “The most rewarding aspects of being a mentor are the relationships you build and witnessing the impact of personal growth,” Dave shares. “We help people find dignity by guiding them to independence and stability.” While working a full-time job as the Executive Vice President at Wintrust Financial Corporation in Willowbrook, one might ask how Dave finds the time for volunteering to assist Bridge Communities. “You set your priorities and make a commitment,” he says. “I also work on a team of several mentors, so we are able to share duties to meet our schedules, and the support we receive from Bridge is outstanding.” Larson invites groups or individuals of all ages to participate in “Sleep Out Saturday” this November 7th. To support a sleeper or make a donation visit www.sleepoutsaturday.org. -Kristen Kucharski About Sleep Out Saturday On Saturday, Nov. 7, close to 2,000 west suburban teens will sleep outside all night to raise awareness of and money for families in the Bridge Communities program. You can sponsor a sleeper, a group or simply make a donation at www.sleepoutsaturday.org or by calling 630-545-0610 x 19. "Sleep Out Saturday" Participant Rebecca Waden (right) is an 8th grader at Herrick Middle School in Downers Grove. She has participated in "Sleep Out Saturday" twice with the Christ Church of Oak Brook middle school youth group. Rebecca says, "I like Sleep Out Saturday because it's for a great cause. Our middle school director talks to us about how many people and even kids are homeless and the stats are surprising. This is my way of helping out." #SuburbanHero

​JEANS ARE THE NEW BLACK Between now and New Years, I’ve got family functions and holiday parties galore. And every year, I go shopping to find that one dress I can wear to everything. Ok, stop laughing – I’m an optimist! But let me tell you, I’ve spent many-a-holiday wishing my dress was more comfortable…or more “me”…or that it got the stamp of approval from my financial planner. So when shopping for said dress, I usually end up in one of three places. 1) Cheapville - easy on the wallet, not so easy on my less-than-perfect figure. I sacrifice quality and fit for Cold.Hard.Cash. 2) ‘Meh’ Grove – where nothing is awful, but nothing is great either. It’s like eating a bland meal at a restaurant. I can stay home and eat mediocre food, for goodness sakes. 3) Buckstown – a.k.a. I just give in and spend way too much. Although I feel great being the Belle of the Buckstown Ball, my elation fizzles when the credit card bill arrives. So this year I’m making a resolution, or more aptly - revolution - before all the hoopla begins: stylish not squished, chic not cheap and merry not ‘meh’…without breaking the bank. I’ve been a long time fan of Jeans and a Cute Top Shop, but haven’t considered them for the holidays. But in saying no to the dress, I came up with an idea: focus on basics I feel good in (a great pair of jeans, a versatile top and a nice jacket) and then accessorize, by way of scarves, jewelry and shoes, so I can wear the same outfit, differently, for each occasion. Brilliant, I say…and owner, Jill Card agrees! On the hunt for the perfect jeans, we found some that hug my curves and give me good coverage (no Spanx necessary; stretchy denim + high waist = instant lengthening!). Add a sleek tank – great for dressy occasions, or a brightly patterned blouse for more festive fun. We cap it off with an edgy “leather” jacket (get this –its washable!). Then with the drape of a scarf or the dangle of a necklace or a change of shoes, we have successfully put several twists on the same outfit! And for those of you thinking, “I can’t wear jeans to Thanksgiving or a Christmas party,” I beg to differ. Jeans are the new black! My opinion and I know Jill agrees – you can wear jeans anywhere you can wear a dress; you just have to know the right way to jazz them up or play them down. So skip past Cheapville, Meh Grove and Buckstown and over to stylish and sophisticated this holiday season, in jeans…and a cute top! OVERVIEW Started in 2009, Jeans and a Cute Top Shop Is a friendly boutique that’s overflowing with wearable, on-trend clothing, without the sticker shock. Offering jeans, tops, accessories, and even dresses (if you really want one) – with helpful styling by Jill and her staff. Located St. Charles, Wheaton and Downers Grove. Watch their Facebook page for weekly arrivals. www.jeansandacutetopshop.com about the writer Tiffany Schultz resides in Sugar Grove with her husband, two kids and Shih Tzu. While seeking balance between her dueling roles as wife, mother, daughter, friend and professional, Tiffany spends as much time as possible daydreaming on her screen porch. She enjoys cooking, traveling and yoga and hopes to one day learn Italian and make the perfect crème brulee. #TalesFromtheHighWire

The kids are back in school, the trees are brightening their colors, and the air feels crisper--all alerting you that fall is indeed here once again. Besides your annual trip to the farm for the perfect carving pumpkin, here are a few more unique adventures you should consider. THE SCARECROW TRAIL Walk the Scarecrow Trail amongst the autumn colors at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle. It is open daily in October and features scarecrow creations from local Scout troops.Vote for your favorite! Other Arboretum events this fall include a glass pumpkin patch, a cider and ale festival and a Fright in the Forest tram tour. www.mortonarb.org OKTOBERFEST Crack out those lederhosen and pick up a polka! The weekend of October 2-3, Naper Settlement is putting on an Oktoberfest complete with German beer, food and Oom-Pah music. If German fest isn’t your scene, try their All Hallows Eve on October 16-17 with 12 acres of some of the scariest experiences, characters and horrors. www.napersettlement.org FRIGHT FEST Weekend nights at Six Flags Great America running September 26 through November 1 turn chilling, with walking zombies and horrific creatures. They have an eerie lineup of haunted houses you could “lose your head” over and thrilling roller coasters you can ride in the dark. Just don’t ride alone; you never know what creature may be sitting next to you! www.sixflags.com/greatamerica HOT CIDER HUSTLE A fan of hot cider and caramel apples? Well, you’ll have to run for it, or at least walk for it. The Hot Cider Hustle is an 8-mile or 3-mile run/walk through Wheaton’s Danada Forest Preserve on a path surrounded by the fall colors. The event is set this year for the morning of October 31. Enjoy some brisk morning exercise with a special treat after the finish line.www.allcommunityevents.com/hotcocoa/hot_cider_hustle_info.html HAUNTED HOMETOWNS GHOST TOURS No real Halloween season is complete without stories of ghosts and hauntings, but in your own hometown? Who knew? Take a historic ghost tour through Naperville, Aurora or Elgin where you are the ghost hunter and use real EMF ghost meters on your tour! The expert guides will regale you with well-researched legends and accounts to chill you to the bone. www.hauntedhometowns.com THE 15-ACRE CORN MAZE Tap into your adventurous spirit and attempt the largest corn maze around at Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm in Lockport. The maze is designed differently each year and holds 5 miles of paths to choose from. Siegel’s also holds a large pumpkin fest full of activities, including Zombie Sniper paintball, and is also the home of the Statesville Haunted Prison. BOO AT THE ZOO Little ghosts and goblins of all ages are sure to have a howlin good time October 17-28 at Brookfield Zoo! Their not-so-scary and fun-filled event has something for the entire family to enjoy. Enjoy the the corn maze, "Pumpkin Smasher," costume contest, and more! 10am-4pm. Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield. www.czs.org/boo CANTIGNY FALL FESTIVAL Enjoy a variety of activities including a Fall craft show, music, hayrides and more on October 10 at Cantigny in Wheaton. Stop by Bertie's for a taste of autumn with a cup of hot cider or hot chocolate and something decadent to sink your teeth into. 10am-4pm. www.cantigny.org UNCLE JED’S SCREAM SHED New for 2015 is Uncle Jed’s Scream Shed! Head to Kuipers for a day filled will fun for the entire family. The orchard offers apple picking and the aroma of fresh apple cider doughnuts, home-baked pies, fudge, pasteurized apple cider and hand-spun caramel apples from The Orchard Shop and Bakery lingers in the air. Taste the new hard ciders at The Bin Tasting Bar! Pumpkin farm activities are in full swing including Pig Races on the weekends. www.kuipersfamilyfarm.com (815) 827-5200, Maple Par14 A HAUNTED HOTEL Lincoln Hotel presented by the Downers Grove Park District. A historic haunt of Downers Grove returns to life this fall - unlock its secrets on Oct 23 and 24. Explore the hotel on a self-guided tour anytime between 7:30-10:30pm for only $8 per person. www.dgparks.org

TRICKS, TREATS & CREEPY EATS Halloween is almost here and The Kleivo’s could not be more excited. We love everything about it– the tricks, the treats and all things in between, except for maybe the creepy masked guy who runs around our neighborhood terrorizing children (and adults) while waving a running chainsaw in the air. For now, we’ll just file that one under ‘tricks’. Creepy, right? Now let’s get to the good stuff– the treats. I’m no Betty Crocker but the more festive the cupcakes the better and these days you can find dessert confetti and toppings galore like never before which makes a mom’s job that much easier. (Phew!) Thanks to Pinterest, I’ve come across the creepiest Halloween cupcake list ever and would love to share it with you. Some recipes seem easy while others look a little bit more involved, but the kids will love them and that’s what it’s all about. Pictured is the Autumn Tree, the least creepiest of the bunch, but there are many more to choose from including Brain Cupcakes, Graveyard Cupcakes, Jack Skellington Cupcakes and more– something creative for every level of gore. Just visit our website and click to view. Send us a photo of your finished treats at editorial@glancermagazine.com for us to share in social media. This issue is filled with lots of fall fun– from Autumn Happenings to Fright Fests throughout Chicagoland. It is also The Kitchen Issue. You’ll love reading about the latest tips and trends when it comes to kitchen redesign, space planning and getting your kitchen party-ready– just in time for the holidays. How perfect is that!? Get baking, get planning and #HappyFall! 20 CREEPY HALLOWEEN CUPCAKE IDEAS: http://www.viralnova.com/brain-cupcakes-please/ Lindy Kleivo Founding Publisher Celebrating 14 Years In West Suburban Publishing A West Suburban Focus, Featuring Your Community #PublishersNote