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Archive for the ‘Resident Spotlights’ Category

World War II veteran and D-Day pilot celebrates 106th birthday with major home renovation in McHenry County

Posted in Fundraisers, Lake & McHenry County Scanner, The Greatest Generation on December 7, 2025| 1 Comment »

Edward “Bud” Berthold, who was a B-24 bomber pilot in World War 2, received a major home renovation at his residence in Fox River Grove to celebrate his 106th birthday. | Provided Photos

By Sam Borcia | Lake & McHenry County Scanner

A 106-year-old veteran of World War II has received an amazing birthday gift after supporters and donors renovated his McHenry County home to assist him with his continued care.

Edward “Bud” Berthold was a B-24 bomber pilot in World War 2 who flew over 35 successful combat missions as the pilot of the famed Fort Worth Maid B-24 Liberator at the age of 24.

The bombing runs included runs on D-Day over Utah Beach.

Edward “Bud” Berthold, who was a B-24 bomber pilot in World War 2, received a major home renovation at his residence in Fox River Grove to celebrate his 106th birthday. | Provided Photos

The goal of the Bud Project was to raise money and labor needed to renovate Berthold’s home in McHenry and to make his house wheelchair accessible, according to Mark Finnegan, the President and Co-Founder of VetsRoll, which is a veteran charity non-profit.

The work included a new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system and an ADA-compliant ramp to make it easier for Berthold to get around.

The work also included new bathroom fixtures, new doors, new cabinets, updated electrical wiring, a new roof and a new driveway.

A GoFundMe account has raised almost $20,000, not including a $5,000 donation from a local business.

Read more here.

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Family launches fundraiser for woman set on fire on CTA Blue Line

Posted in Chicago Sun*Times, Crime, Fundraisers on November 26, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The family of a 26-year-old woman attacked and set on fire on a CTA Blue Line train Nov. 17 has started a GoFundMe to help with her recovery. | GoFundMe

The 26-year-old woman suffered severe burns after the Nov. 17 attack near the CTA Clark and Lake station. The fundraiser had raised nearly $230,000 as of Wednesday afternoon.

By  Sun-Times Wire

The family of a 26-year-old woman attacked on a Blue Line train this month has launched a fundraiser as she faces “a long road ahead” toward her recovery.

Bethany MaGee is being treated at a hospital for severe burns she suffered when a man poured gasoline on her and set her on fire Nov. 17 near the CTA Clark and Lake station, according to the GoFundMe and prosecutors.

The fundraiser had collected nearly $230,000 as of Wednesday afternoon, more than halfway toward its $330,000 goal.

“Many of her immediate medical expenses are covered by insurance and a victims fund, but with such a long road ahead of her, the freedom from financial worries would be a tremendous blessing,” her family said in the fundraiser post. “No gifts are expected, but any that are given will go directly to Bethany.”

Read more here.

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How a 101-year-old WWII veteran from Barrington Hills brought a daughter closer to her late father

Posted in Resident Spotlights, The Greatest Generation on November 11, 2025| Leave a Comment »

George Hitchcock, a 101-year-old veteran from Barrington Hills, piloted 27 B-17 bombing missions in the European theater during World War II. | Joe Lewnard/ lewnard@dailyherald.com

By Christopher Placek | Daily Herald

Kathy Rennie never got to meet her father, who perished in World War II when her mother was three months pregnant.

But through Rennie’s discovery of a 101-year-old veteran from Barrington Hills — and their friendship that has blossomed in recent years — she feels like she knows her dad a little bit.

Rennie’s mother spent years trying to find any of the five surviving crew members from the fateful Feb. 14, 1945, B-17 bombing mission over the North Sea between England and Germany. It was on that flight that four others — including Rennie’s dad, Sgt. Walter Mayer, a 30-year-old radio operator from a small town in Minnesota — had to bail after one of the plane’s engines caught fire.

Mayer parachuted into the cold waters below, and his body has never been recovered. He is still listed as missing in action.

Only about 15 years ago did Rennie learn of a museum in Tucson, Arizona dedicated to the history of her dad’s unit in the U.S. Army Air Forces: the 390th Bombardment Group. Officials there provided two names and phone numbers of possible survivors in his squadron, the 570th.

One number was disconnected, but Rennie was able to call and leave a message on the other.

“It was like about 10 o’clock, and we were in bed already, and I heard the phone ring out in the kitchen and this long message coming to us,” said Rennie, who lives in Bloomington, Minnesota. “So I ran out there, and it was him calling back — this man. And so then I picked it up, and we had a 20-minute conversation. And he told me that he was the pilot of the plane — the only one left. The pilot of the plane!”

The man on the other end of the line was George Hitchcock.

“She was so elated to find somebody who knew (her father), saw him, touched him, and that sort of thing,” said Hitchcock, who, as a 21-year-old captain, flew 27 missions in the European theater toward the end of the war.

George Hitchcock, left, struck up a friendship with Kathy Rennie decades after he piloted a war plane on which her father was aboard. | Courtesy of George Hitchcock

That phone call led to a visit months later at Hitchcock’s Barrington Hills home, subsequent trips by two of Rennie’s children, a FaceTime with other Minnesota-based family members, and plenty of other phone calls, exchanges of emails and Christmas cards.

Rennie visited Hitchcock again in 2023 just before he turned 100, and now they often talk on the phone twice a week.

“We became very good buddies,” he said. “She felt sort of close to me for some reason.”

Read more here.

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LET IT BE US ANNOUNCES HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE AND GINGERBREAD FUNDRAISER IN SUPPORT OF CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE AND THOSE AWAITING ADOPTION ACROSS

Posted in Fundraisers, Let It Be Us, Press Release, Resident Spotlights on October 25, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Let It Be Us, a licensed child welfare agency and trusted leader in adoption and foster care innovation, will host two holiday initiatives to benefit children in foster care and those awaiting across Illinois. Already a statewide leader in adoption reform, Let It Be Us continues to enhance the visibility, accessibility, and support systems surrounding the adoption process. As part of its mission, the organization utilizes and manages the Illinois Adoption Listing Service and The Heart Gallery of Illinois, providing caseworkers and prospective families with an interactive, user-friendly platform highlighting children and teens awaiting permanent, loving families. Through this system, families can view profiles, learn about each child’s unique story and interests, and take the first step toward adoption.

The annual Toy Drive for Children in Foster Care including Those Awaiting Adoption, will take place on December 11 and 12 at Let It Be Us headquarters, 145 West Main Street in Barrington. The organization will collect new, unwrapped toys for children in foster care throughout Northern Illinois, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) office in Waukegan, CASA of Lake County, and several local group homes. Donations of wrapping paper, ribbon, and tape are also appreciated. Monetary donations are accepted, and Let It Be Us will purchase gifts on behalf of donors through its Donation Page. A full list of requested toys can be found on the Toy Drive Event Page.

On December 4, Let It Be Us will also host Candy Cottage for a Cause: Gingerbread Holiday Fundraiser for Foster Care and Adoption at Butterfield Country Club in Oak Brook. The adults-only event will feature gingerbread house decorating led by a professional pastry artist, seasonal refreshments, and a festive evening supporting Let It Be Us programs that help children and teens in foster care find permanent, loving homes. Tickets can be purchased on their site.

Let It Be Us works in partnership with DCFS to connect licensed foster parents with children who are legally available for adoption, focusing on those with specialized needs, sibling groups, and children who have spent extended time in care. Through statewide programs such as the Adoption Listing Service and the Heart Gallery of Illinois, the organization assists families in navigating the adoption process to support successful placements.

“Our mission has always been to create innovative solutions that improve the futures of waiting children,” said Dr. Susan McConnell, Executive Director of Let It Be Us. “Events like the Toy Drive and Candy Cottage for a Cause not only raise awareness but also directly support our work to ensure every child in Illinois foster care has the opportunity to grow up in a loving, permanent home.” Serving Illinois for more than a decade, Let It Be Us continues to lead adoption and foster care innovation statewide. For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit www.letitbeus.org or call (847) 764-5428.

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Things to do Oct. 24-30: Nightmare on Chicago Street, Trick-or-Treating in Downtown Long Grove, Elgin Symphony String Quartet — Spooky Strings and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on October 24, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Costumes are welcome at Nightmare on Chicago Street happening Saturday in downtown Elgin. | Courtesy of the City of Elgin, 2024

By Luke Zurawski | Daily herald

Friday, Oct. 24

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns: 6-10:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 24-26, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See hand-carved, LED-lit jack-o’-lanterns staged along a festive paved pathway where visitors will encounter characters and can watch live pumpkin carving. $22-$27 for adults, $15-$18 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/halloween.

Richardson Adventure Farm: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Richardson Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, observation tower, zip line, zorbing, pig races and more. $24, $20 for kids 3-12, and free for kids 2 and younger; $30/$24 Saturdays and Sundays in October. richardsonadventurefarm.com.

Chicagoland Antique Advertising, Slot Machine & Jukebox Show: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Antique slot machines, jukeboxes, advertising memorabilia, gumball and penny arcade machines, music boxes, pinball machines, antique video games, vinyl records and more. Friday early-bird admission: $50, Saturday admission: $10, free for kids younger than 12. chicagolandshow.com.

Trick-or-Treating in Downtown Long Grove: 3-5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, near 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Kids can trick-or-treat at participating businesses. Costumes encouraged. Free. longgrove.org/festival/october-days

Boo Bash: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at North Park, 1025 Riverwoods Road, Lincolnshire. Family-friendly event. Free. lincolnshireil.gov.

Pumpkin Splash Spectacular: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the Community Center Indoor Pool, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Kids 3-7 can search for pumpkins scattered throughout the pools. Plus, Halloween crafts, inflatables, photo opportunities and treats. Registration required. $10. wheelingparkdistrict.com

Trick-or-Treat Trail: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at Community Arts Center, 225 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Walk through the no-scare trail, where friendly characters will hand out candy to kids. Plus, games, entertainment and more. Parents must accompany kids 12 and younger during the event. Free. bgparks.org/trick-or-treat-trail

Halloween Movie in the Barn: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the village hall barn, 2 Lagoon Drive, Hawthorn Woods. Screening of a seasonal movie at 6:30 p.m. Free. vhw.org.

Hayrides at Hoffman Park: 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, and 5:15, 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the dog park at Hoffman Park, West Main Street, Cary. Hayride and campfire under the stars. $10. Register: carypark.com

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men’s “Twelfth Night”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, in Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Performed by an all-male cast in authentic Elizabethan costume, infused with music, song and spirited dance. $35; free for kids 12 and younger with a paid ticket. eccartscenter.org.

Penn & Teller: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. The magicians are on their 50th Anniversary Tour. Tickets start at $74.55. msg.com

Saturday, Oct. 25

Palatine’s Halloween Hustle 5K and Kids Dash takes place Saturday, Oct. 25. | Courtesy of Adrenaline Special Events

Halloween Hustle 5K and Kids Dash: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Adrenaline Special Events, 345 N. Eric Drive, Palatine. Kids Dash at 8:30 a.m., 5K at 9 a.m. Immediately following the race, runners and spectators are invited to an after-party at the Tap House Grill. 5K: $40-$60; Kids Dash: $20-$30. halloweenhustle.com

Chicago Women’s Expo: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. See the latest in shopping, fashion, food, entertainment, cosmetics and travel for women, plus keynote speakers and more. Tickets start at $5 per day. chicagowomensexpo.com

Great Food Expo: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Sample food and beverages, shop from vendors and more. Tickets available online starting at $6.24 per day. greatfoodexpo.com/chicago.

Lake County Home Show: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Over 120 businesses will present the latest in home remodeling, roofing, architecture design services, lawn and tree care and more. Free. lakecountyhomeshow.com.

Great Hawthorne Pumpkin Hunt: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, 28 Brookside Drive, Elgin. Kids can explore nature while stopping at educational stations, searching for hidden pumpkins, creating a seasonal craft and taking home a mini pumpkin. $10-$12. Register: elginil.gov/recreation.

Elgin Symphony String Quartet — Spooky Strings: 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Halloween-themed concert. Costumes encouraged. $28.52, family pass for $33.85. barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Halloween Walk: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, in Cary and Fox River Grove. In Cary, trick-or-treating, costumes and a parade led by the 2025 Miss Cary-Grove from 11 a.m. to noon starting at Tasty Sushi and ending at Athletico in the Jewel Shopping Center. In Fox River Grove, the parade begins at Leader Ace Hardware in the Stone Hill Shopping Center and ends at Wonderland Kids Academy from 1-2 p.m. Free. carygrovechamber.com.

Tricks & Treats in the Valley: 2-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 25-26, at Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg. All-ages trick-or-treat experience, with the trail beginning at Heritage Farm and continuing past the farm’s historic buildings and into the woods and fields. Wear a costume you can walk in for about half a mile. Entry is timed. Trick-or-treaters must register; free for caregivers. $5-$7. parkfun.com/event/tricks-treats-in-the-valley

Ghost Story Train: 5, 6:15 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Fox River Trolley Museum, off Route 31, South Elgin. Ride a spooky trolley to the haunted forest preserve for family-friendly frights, including stories around the campfire with treats from Margie’s Girls’ Kitchen. A ghostly musician will lead campfire songs. Costumes welcome. $20. Register at foxtrolley.org/Ghost-Story-Train.

Trick-or-Treating at McHenry Downtown Businesses: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, near 163 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake. Trick-or-treat at local businesses. Free. For a map, visit facebook.com/events/1788089675374809.

BOOs & Brews: 6-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. This 21-and-older after-hours event features a costume contest, dance party, animal experiences, seasonal brews and cocktails and more. Tickets start at $45 for general admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BoosAndBrews.

Family Wicked Wagon Ride: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Clauss Rec Center fields, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. After the Zombie Run, take a haunted hayride around the “ball fields of doom” and through the abandoned barn. For kids 12 and younger, accompanied by an adult. $8-$10. Registration required: rparks.org.

Costumes are welcome at Nightmare on Chicago Street happening Saturday in downtown Elgin. | Courtesy of the City of Elgin, 2024

Nightmare on Chicago Street: 6-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, on East Chicago and North Spring streets, Elgin. Annual Halloween festival with terrifying attractions, live performances, immersive environments, costume contest, photo ops, celebrities, food and apocalyptic-themed drinks. $35, $40 at the gate. Tickets: nightmareonchicagostreet.com.

Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Tribute to the music of ABBA. $45-$50. prairiecenter.org

Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” in Concert: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. The full feature film “The Nightmare Before Christmas” will be projected on the big screen with live accompaniment by the Chicago Philharmonic. Costumes encouraged. $96-$122. auditoriumtheatre.org

Sunday, Oct. 26

Day of the Dead 5K: 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Heritage Park, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. 5K run/walk, plus entertainment, awards, music and food after the race. Registration required. Ages 13 and older: $40; kids 12 and younger: $30. runsignup.com

Elgin Coin Club Fall Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Holiday Inn, 495 Airport Road, Elgin. Buy, sell and trade coins, currency, and assorted numismatic items and collectibles. Kids 6-16 can join the Kids Auction at 12:30 p.m., where they get free bid money to bid on donated lots. Raffle prizes and hourly door prizes. ANACS Coin Grading Service will be on-site. Early bird from 8-9 a.m. for $20 or $2 after. coinzip.com/elgin-coin-club-coin-show.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Spooky Skate: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Triphahn Center Ice Arena, 1685 Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. Public skate. Halloween costumes encouraged. $7 in advance, $10 at the event; skate rental $3. heparks.org.

Trick-or-Treat on Main Street: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, on Main Street in downtown Wauconda. Trick-or-treat at local businesses. Free. waucondachamber.org.

Trunk-or-Treat: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 932 S. McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake. My Father’s World Preschool hosts a fair with a bouncy house, selfie station, cake walk, games in the gym and trunk-or-treat in the parking lot. Free. prince-of-peace.org

Monday, Oct. 27

Halloween Spooktacular: 10-11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 27, at the Geneva Public Library, 227 S. Seventh St., Geneva. Crafts, games and a parade through the library. Costumes encouraged. Free. gpld.org.

Tuesday, Oct. 28

Haunted History Tours at Lincoln Park Zoo: 7 and 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 28-29, at Lincoln Park Zoo, North Cannon Drive at West Fullerton Parkway, Chicago. Join Adam Selzer — author, podcaster and host of Mysterious Chicago Tours — for walks that delve into the zoo’s cemetery roots and locations from throughout its allegedly haunted history. For 16 and older. $35. lpzoo.org.

Wednesday, Oct. 29

Mount Prospect Downtown Trick-or-Treat: 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, in downtown Mount Prospect. Trick-or-treat at downtown Mount Prospect businesses. Costumes encouraged. Free. mpdowntown.com/events

Wheeling’s Taste of the Town takes place Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling. | Courtesy of the Greater Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce

Wheeling’s Taste of the Town: 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. About two dozen vendors offering bite-size tastings from their menus and bars. $35 in advance, $45 at the door. wheelingareachamber.com.

Lake Park Film Appreciation Society: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Lake Park High School West Campus auditorium, 500 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Screening of the 1933 Pre-Code sci-fi horror film “The Invisible Man,” starring Claude Rains. Free popcorn, post-show discussion and trivia with prizes. Free. facebook.com/LPHSDramaProductions/.

Thursday, Oct. 30

Pumpkin Splash: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at The Water Works, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. Swim with pumpkins and pick a pumpkin, DJ entertainment and a goody bag filled with treats. Kids younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult during the event. $15-$20. parkfun.com/event/pumpkin-splash.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra Dia de los Muertos: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Commemorate loved ones at a concert featuring vocalist José Carlos Díaz. Face painting, crafts, an ofrenda, food trucks and more at 5:30 p.m. Pre-concert talk on the history of Dia de los Muertos at 6:30 p.m. $25, $5 for students, free tickets for ages 17 and younger. elginsymphony.org.

Ongoing

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s annual Boo at the Zoo event runs through Oct. 31. | Courtesy of Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Boo at the Zoo: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Oct. 31 at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Family-friendly Halloween celebration with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations and more. On weekends, there’s trick-or-treating, a magician and other activities. Included with zoo admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BooAtTheZoo.

Goebbert’s Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Thursday, Oct. 30, at Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center, 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Animals, corn stalk mazes, wagon rides, pig races, fall food, produce and more. Some attractions are only available on the weekends. $19 weekdays; $23 in advance online and $26 at the door on weekends; free for kids 2 and younger. Extra fees for animal rides ($8) and gem mining ($10-$25). goebbertspumpkinfarm.com/fall-festival.

Randall Oaks Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Nov. 2 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Pedal tractors, pumpkins and fall treats for sale, and on weekends, hayrides for $3 and animal shows at 1:30 p.m. $6; free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/fall-festival.

Alex Ross — Heroes & Villains: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays and Wednesdays and 2-8 p.m. Thursdays through Feb. 16, 2026, at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville. A larger-than-life presentation of the work of legendary comic book artist Alex Ross featuring heroes and villains from the Marvel and DC universes. Museum admission $3-$10, exhibit tickets $5-$10, and free for kids 3 and younger. LCFPD.org/planyourvisit.

Happy Times Pumpkinfest at Didier Farms: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Sunday, Oct. 26, at Didier Farms, 16678 Aptakisic Road, Lincolnshire. Amusement rides, shows, fall merchandise, pumpkin sales, fall treats and more. Free entry; fees for rides and attractions. happytimespumpkinfest.com

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: 5-11 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1 at Six Flags Great America, Six Flags Drive, Gurnee. Thrills by day and frights by night with haunted houses, scare zones, spine-chilling shows and rides. Plus, kids’ Boo Fest and Oktoberfest. Tickets start at $45. sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

Volo Paranormal Tours: Noon, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays and 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesdays through Nov. 2 at the Volo Museum, 27582 Volo Village Road, Volo. Tour brings to life stories of paranormal encounters at the Volo museum. $3 with museum admission. Reservations recommended. volofun.com.

See a plethora of pumpkins at Jack O’Lantern World in Lake Zurich and Lemont this weekend. | Courtesy of All Community Events

Jack O’Lantern World: Time slots start around 6 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 1 at Paulus Park, 215 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, and The Forge, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont. See and explore thousands of pumpkins arranged in displays and more, plus a pumpkin patch, 30-foot inflatables, food trucks, a beer garden, mini golf and more. Tickets range from $17.99-$27.99. Thejackolanternworld.com.

Find much more here.

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Illinois video gambling mogul to seek GOP gubernatorial nomination

Posted in Elections, Politics, Resident Spotlights, Springfield on October 21, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Rick Heidner | Rick for Illinois official photo

A suburban video gambling mogul is putting his chips into a Republican primary bid for Illinois governor.

Rick Heidner, a Barrington Hills real estate developer and the owner of Gold Rush Gaming, formed a gubernatorial campaign committee on Tuesday, according to a filing with the State Board of Elections. It comes less than two weeks before the petition filing deadline for the March primary.

Candidates for governor must attain at least 5,000 signatures to secure a place on the ballot. Heidner’s running mate is Homer Glen Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike, according to petitions being circulated.

Heidner joins a crowded Republican primary field that includes former state Sen. Darren Bailey — the party’s 2022 gubernatorial nominee; Ted Dabrowski, former president of conservative think tank Wirepoints; and two-term DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick. The winner likely gets a matchup against Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker, a billionaire who is seeking a third term as the state’s chief executive.

Read more here.

Related: “Rick Heidner’s American Dream”

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Things to do Oct. 17-23: Howl-O-Ween Canine Costume Contest, Pet Costume Parade, Howl-A-Ween Dog Parade and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on October 17, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Long Grove Pet Costume Parade steps off Sunday at noon | AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Oct. 17

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns: 6-10:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 17-19 and 22-26, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See hand-carved, LED-lit jack-o’-lanterns staged along a festive paved pathway where visitors will encounter characters and can watch live pumpkin carving. $22-$27 for adults, $15-$18 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/halloween.

Military Miniature Society of Illinois Show: 3-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Chicago Marriott Schaumburg, 50 Martingale Road, Schaumburg. Exhibition featuring the work of modelers from around the world displaying painted miniature figures and original sculptures from historical to fantasy, armored and other vehicles, airplanes, ships, dioramas and vignettes. Vendor area offers model kits, paints, tools, books and more. $10, free for kids 12 and younger and active military with ID. military-miniature-society-of-illinois.com/about-the-show.

Boo Bash Spectacular: 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Clauss Rec Center Maple Room, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Halloween party for kids 3-5 featuring a costume contest, spooky crafts and making a treat. Register by Oct. 14. $18-$23. rparks.org.

Boo Thru: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Randall Oaks Park, 750 Randall Road, West Dundee. Drive through the park for candy and surprises in a reverse trunk-or-treat. Fee is $6-$9 per vehicle. Register: dtpd.org/boo-thru

Inflatables, games and a magic show are a part of Boonanza Friday, Oct. 17, at the Community Recreation Center in Wheeling. | Daily Herald file photo

Boonanza: 4-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Community Recreation Center, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Magic show, carnival games, a balloonist, inflatables and crafts for kids. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

Hayrides at Hoffman Park: 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, and 5:15, 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the dog park at Hoffman Park, West Main Street, Cary. Hayride and campfire under the stars. $10 per person. Register: carypark.com

Zombie Fun Run: 6-8 p.m. Friday Oct. 17, at Volkening Lake, 900 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Run or walk in your Halloween costume for nearly two miles while being chased by zombies. Fee includes a hot dog or brat, chips and a drink. $10-$15. parkfun.com/event/zombie-fun-run

Teen Night “The Nightmare Before Christmas”: 7-9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Arlington Ridge Center, 660 N. Ridge Ave., Arlington Heights. Open swim, open gym, pizza and a movie for sixth to eighth graders. $16 in advance, $18 at the door. Space is limited. ahpd.org.

The Silhouettes: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Hemmens Cultural Center Main Stage Theatre, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. “LOVE Happens” is a family-friendly shadow dance story. $20-$39. Tickets: (847) 931-5900 or hemmens.org.

Saturday, Oct. 18

Hampshire Farmers and Outdoor Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Hampshire Commons, 113 W. Oak Knoll Drive, Hampshire. Farm-to-table goods, handmade items, packaged food, sweets, artisanal gifts and more. Free. facebook.com/HampshireFarmersMarket.

Boo Bash: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Community Center, 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Costume parade, pumpkin painting, snacks and more. $20-$30. Register: carypark.com.

Reenactors fire a cannon during the Civil War Encampment and Battle at the Northbrook Sports Club in Hainesville. This year’s event takes place Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18-19. | Daily Herald file photo

Civil War Encampment & Battle: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, by the Northbrook Sports Club, off South Hainesville Road, Hainesville. Relive history as period-garbed reenactors re-create battles, bivouacs, battlefield surgeries and historical presentations of the American Civil War. Meet Abraham Lincoln, General Grant and others. Free. hainesville.org/civil-war-event

Haunted Hoffman Family Fest: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Fabbrini Park, 1704 Glen Lake Road, Hoffman Estates. Live entertainment, Story-Walk Scavenger Hunt, carnival games, bounce house, mini golf, scenic hayride, pumpkin patch food drive, and meet members of the Hoffman Estates Fire and Police Departments. Register for the Trick or Treat Path to collect goodies and meet characters such as Elsa, Anna, Bluey, Chase, Big Bird and more. Free; Trick or Treat Path is $9 in advance, $12 on-site. heparks.org

Howl-O-Ween Canine Costume Contest: 10:45-11:45 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Dan Schimmel Pavilion in Willow Stream Park, 651 Old Checker Road, Buffalo Grove. Canine costume contest and doggy egg hunt. Prizes and awards for the most unique and creative costumes. Free. bgparks.org/howl-o-ween

Frights & Delights: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Sullivan Community Center, 635 N. Aspen Drive, Vernon Hills. Trunk-or-treating, a costume contest, hay rides and more. Dog-friendly event will feature a doggy costume contest and puppy adoptions. $8. vhparkdistrict.org

Harvest Hoot: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Oakton College, Parking Lot A, 1600 E. Golf Road, Des Plaines. Live entertainment, an inflatable corn maze, a pumpkin-carving demonstration, family activities, a harvest artisan market, food trucks and more. No alcohol or pets. Free. desplaines.org

Midwest Daffodil Society Bulb Sale | Courtesy Chicago Botanic Garden

Midwest Daffodil Society Bulb Sale, Midwest Fruit Explorers Show & Sale and Wisconsin-Illinois Lily Society Lily Bulb Sale: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18-19, at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Burnstein Hall, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Hundreds of varieties of daffodil bulbs will be available for purchase. Daffodil enthusiasts will be on hand to offer expert growing tips. Plus, see a display of freshly harvested fruit grown in the area by members of the Midwest Fruit Explorers, featuring apples, pears, paw paws, grapes, kiwis and more. The Wisconsin-Illinois Lily Society will offer a variety of lily bulbs for sale. Free with general admission of $15.95-$25.95. chicagobotanic.org.

Trick-or-Treat Trail: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Springbrook Nature Center, 130 Forest Ave., Itasca. Kids and their guardians can walk the trail around the Ray Franzen Bird Sanctuary and receive candy and other goodies. Scare-free. Free. itascaparkdistrict.com.

Haunted Trail: 4:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Springbrook Nature Center, 130 Forest Ave., Itasca. Scares along the one-third mile loop. Family hour from 4:30-5:30 p.m., active scaring from 7-9:30 p.m. $10, $5 for a repeat trip. Tickets in advance at the recreation center or at the trail (cash only). itascaparkdistrict.com.

Ghost Story Train: 5, 6:15 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 18 and 25, at the Fox River Trolley Museum, off Route 31, South Elgin. Ride a spooky trolley to the haunted forest preserve for family-friendly frights, including stories around the campfire with treats from Margie’s Girls’ Kitchen. A ghostly musician will lead campfire songs. Costumes welcome. $20. Register at foxtrolley.org/Ghost-Story-Train.

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, in Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. The 18-piece big band performs a tribute to Tony Bennett. $45, $20 for kids 12 and younger. eccartscenter.org

Southern Avenue: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Blues, rock and gospel. $45-$53. prairiecenter.org

Sunday, Oct. 19

Calibre Car Show: 8-11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at The Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Themed car show season closer. Free. shopthearb.com/events.

Chicago Railroadiana & Model Train Show and Sale: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. 34th annual show. $6, free for kids younger than 12. rrshows.com.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. Free. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Pet Costume Parade: Noon Sunday, Oct. 19, at Brothers’ Field, 340 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Registration is not required, but recommended. Free. longgrove.org/festival/october-days.

Witches & Wizards of Woodstock features magic-themed activities and entertainment Sunday, Oct. 19. | Courtesy of the city of Woodstock

Witches & Wizards of Woodstock: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at historic Woodstock Square, Woodstock. All-ages event filled with mystical activities and entertainment, including The Magical Talking Hat, a fantasy-themed trivia contest, interactive scavenger hunts, live music and performances, crafts and games, food and more. Free admission; some activities have fees. witchesandwizardsevent.com.

Pumpkin Splash: 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at Arlington Ridge Center, 660 N. Ridge Ave., Arlington Heights. Pick a pumpkin in the pool and Halloween treats. For kids 2-7 accompanied by an adult. $13-$15. ahpd.org

Monday, Oct. 20

Adam Sandler: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. “You’re My Best Friend Tour.” Tickets start at $50.15. unitedcenter.com

Tuesday, Oct. 21

“Stars for Sara”: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St., Des Plaines. Music, media and memories to honor the late Sara Janz. $37.75-$159.75. desplainestheatre.com.

Wednesday, Oct. 22

Howl-A-Ween Dog Parade: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Lions Park, 1200 Silver Lake Road, Cary. Costume parade and treats for dogs. $7 per dog. Register: carypark.com.

See a variety of pumpkins on display along with entertainment and activities at the annual Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 22-26. | Daily Herald file photo, 2017

Pumpkin Festival: Various times Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 22-26, with many activities at Main and State streets and on the courthouse lawn, Sycamore. 64th annual festival with decorated pumpkins, carnivals, nonprofit vendors, craft shows, Saturday entertainment and activities. Autumn Craft and Treasures Market from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Sycamore High School Fieldhouse; $1-$3 entry. The 47th annual Sycamore Chamber 10K Pumpkin Run starts at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 26. Pumpkin Festival Parade at 1 p.m. Sunday. Free; some activities have fees. sycamorepumpkinfestival.com.

Ongoing

Goebbert’s Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 30 at Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center, 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Animals, corn stalk mazes, wagon rides, pig races, fall food, produce and more. Some attractions are only available on the weekends. $19 weekdays; $23 in advance online and $26 at the door on weekends; free for kids 2 and younger. Extra fees for animal rides ($8) and gem mining ($10-$25). goebbertspumpkinfarm.com/fall-festival.

McHenry Stade’s Farm Market: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 31 at 3709 Miller Road, McHenry. Free. stadesfarmandmarket.com.

Randall Oaks Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Nov. 2 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Pedal tractors, pumpkins and fall treats for sale, and on weekends, hayrides for $3 and animal shows at 1:30 p.m. $6; free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/fall-festival.

Alex Ross — Heroes & Villains: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays and Wednesdays and 2-8 p.m. Thursdays through Feb. 16, 2026, at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville. A larger-than-life presentation of the work of legendary comic book artist Alex Ross featuring heroes and villains from the Marvel and DC universes. Museum admission $3-$10, exhibit tickets $5-$10, free for kids 3 and younger. LCFPD.org/planyourvisit.

Boo at the Zoo: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Oct. 31 at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Family-friendly Halloween celebration with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations and more. On weekends, there’s trick-or-treating, a magician and other activities. Included with zoo admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BooAtTheZoo.

Happy Times Pumpkinfest at Didier Farms: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except Tuesdays, through Sunday, Oct. 26, at Didier Farms, 16678 Aptakisic Road, Lincolnshire. Amusement rides, shows, fall merchandise, pumpkin sales, fall treats and more. Free entry; fees for rides and attractions. happytimespumpkinfest.com

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: 5-11 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1 at Six Flags Great America, Six Flags Drive, Gurnee. Thrills by day and frights by night with haunted houses, scare zones, spine-chilling shows and rides. Plus, kids’ Boo Fest and Oktoberfest. Tickets start at $45. sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

Richardson Adventure Farm: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays, noon to 9 p.m. Sundays, and 3-9 p.m. Thursdays through Oct. 26 at Richardson Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, observation tower, zip line, zorbing, pig races and more. $24, $20 for kids 3-12, and free for kids 2 and younger; $30/$24 Saturdays and Sundays in October. richardsonadventurefarm.com.

Jack O’Lantern World: Time slots start around 6 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 1 at Paulus Park, 215 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, and The Forge, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont. See and explore thousands of pumpkins arranged in displays and more, plus a pumpkin patch, 30-foot inflatables, food trucks, a beer garden, mini golf and more. Tickets range from $17.99-$27.99. Thejackolanternworld.com.

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience: Various times through Nov. 2 (except Oct. 20-21 and 27-28) at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan, 32405 N. U.S. Highway 12, Ingleside. Lights transform the landscape into a magical outdoor trail featuring creatures from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films. A themed village at the end of the trail offers food and drink (Butterbeer) and a gift shop. Tickets start at $31 for kids 3-12, $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

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How Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk helps feed local families

Posted in Fundraisers, Resident Spotlights on October 6, 2025| Leave a Comment »

People of all ages can help end hunger by participating in the Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk Oct. 12. | Courtesy of Linda Osikowicz

Submitted by Linda Osikowicz

All are invited to the Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk on Sunday, Oct. 12. This year the walk will begin at First Church of Christ, Scientist, 421 E. Main St., Barrington, with both a 1-mile and 5K route throughout the village of Barrington. Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. and the walk will begin at 1 p.m.

There will be activities for children, including a scavenger hunt. Families are invited to bring wagons and strollers. Not feeling up to walking that day? Register as a “spirit walker,” sharing your passion to end hunger as you ask friends to sponsor you.

It’s easy to both register as a walker and to donate by visiting crophungerwalk.org/barringtonil. Find information about upcoming restaurant fundraisers on the site, too. For information, contact 2025 committee chair Todd Sholeen at t.sholeen12@gmail.com.

Recent actions and policies are pushing more individuals and communities into extreme poverty and hunger — around the block and around the world. In partnership with the global humanitarian organization Church World Service (cwsglobal.org), the Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk offers a way for everyone to meet the increased need.

In its 42-year history, the walk is proud that over 13,730 walkers have raised more than $1.75 million, with more than $429,800 given to local agencies working to end hunger. In 2024, the Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk ranked 20th (out of over 500 walks) in the nation, raising over $50,000. The committee has set a goal of $50,000 again this year with hopes of exceeding that amount.

Funds support the work of CWS, and 25% of the total raised in the Barrington Area CROP Hunger Walk will support the efforts of local agencies fighting hunger. The 2025 recipients include: Northern Illinois Food Bank, FISH Food Pantry — Carpentersville, BACOA Meals With Wheels, United Partnership for a Better Community in Wauconda, and Wauconda-Island Lake Food Pantry.

This year the Barrington area and some 500 other communities nationwide are joining together in interfaith CROP Hunger Walks around the theme “Ending hunger one step at a time.” Organizers say this year’s walk is even more important than ever.

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Things to do Oct. 3-9: Cider and Ale Festival, Oktoberfests and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on October 3, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns returns Wednesdays through Sundays, Oct. 8-26, to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. | Courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Oct. 3

MainStreet Libertyville’s First Fridays: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, on Main Street in Libertyville. Music, refreshments and more. Free. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Festival of Arts & Crafts Show: 2-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Shop for handcrafted products exhibited by local and national crafters. $5. stepbysteppromotions.com

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop and kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. downtownelgin.com/market.

GT Sports Autograph & Sports Card Show: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Sports card and autograph vendors, authenticators and more. Scheduled guests include Warren Moon, Colson Montgomery, Noah Schultz, Colston Loveland and others. $5 for Friday, $10 for Saturday or Sunday. gtsportsshows.com.

The Taste of Arlington Heights returns Friday and Saturday, Oct. 3-4. | John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com, Sept. 27, 2024

Harmony Fest Featuring the Taste of Arlington Heights: 5-11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, and 3-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Harmony Park, Campbell Street and Vail Avenue, Arlington Heights. Concerts and food and drinks from local restaurants. Music lineup: Friday: Student Body at 5 p.m. and Mike & Joe at 8:30 p.m.; and Saturday: Fearless: The Taylor Tribute at 3 p.m., The Breakfast Club at 5 p.m., and Hello Weekend at 8:30 p.m. Free. vah.com/harmonyfest.

Lincoln Park Wine Fest: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Jonquil Park, 1001 W. Wrightwood, Chicago. Open-air market featuring wine tastings and food pavilions. Admission starts at $32.50. chicagoevents.com/event/lincoln-park-wine-fest.

Hayrides at Hoffman Park: 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays and 5:15, 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 3-25, at the dog park at Hoffman Park, West Main Street, Cary. Hayride and campfire under the stars. $10 per person. Register: carypark.com.

“Beetlejuice Jr.”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Theatre 121 students perform in this zany afterlife adventure based on the Tim Burton classic. $15-$25. woodstockil.gov

GreenRoom’s First Fridays Improv: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at Hemmens Theatre in the Round, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. $15-$20. hemmens.org.

Saturday, Oct. 4

Family Fall Fest: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 4, at The Depot at Wild Meadows Trace, 511 S. York St., Elmhurst. Safety Town trick-or-treating and fall festivities. Costumes encouraged. Food trucks: Brown’s Chicken, Nick’s Wood Fired Pizza Truck, Tacos El Amigazo, D’s Treats & Ice Cream and Smallcakes. Free. epd.org

The South Elgin Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival returns to SEBA Park Saturday, Oct. 4. | John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com, 2021

Pumpkin Patch Festival: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at SEBA Park, 151 S. Water St., South Elgin. South Elgin Parks & Rec’s annual fall event features a costume pet parade at 10 a.m., craft show, inflatable, face painting, pyramid of hay and painting station with purchase. New: pumpkin decorating contest for local businesses and service organizations. For details, email Jess Day at JDay@southelgin.com. Free. southelgin.com/pumpkin.

Algonquin Harvest Market: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Main Street in downtown Algonquin. Algonquin Rotary Club’s eighth annual event with fresh produce, artisans, crafters, food, entertainment, giveaways and more. Free. AlgonquinHarvestMarket.com.

Boo at the Zoo: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, Oct. 4-31, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Annual family-friendly Halloween celebration with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations and more. On weekends, there’s trick-or-treating, a magician and other activities. Included with zoo admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BooAtTheZoo.

The Pet Costume Parade starts at 10 a.m. Saturday during the South Elgin Pumpkin Patch Festival. | Courtesy of Village of South Elgin

South Elgin Pet Costume Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at SEBA Park, 151 S. Water St., South Elgin. Parade begins at approximately 10 a.m. along the sidewalk on South Water Street. Categories: scariest, cutest, funniest and best owner/pet costume. Pets must be leashed. Come early for the Pumpkin Patch Festival. On-site registration from 9:30-9:50 a.m. Free. southelgin.com/petparade.

Rolling Meadows Hometown Hoedown: 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Kimball Hill Park, 3286 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Family activities and a performance by Buckle at 6 p.m. Free. cityrm.org.

Roselle Founders Day: 2-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Claus Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Music from the Jolly Ringwalds and ’90s Pop Nation. Pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating, pumpkin jump, hayrides, food truck, beer garden, obstacle course, bumper cars, face painting, balloonist, giant slide, Euro bungee, zip line and rock wall. Hosted by the village of Roselle and Roselle Park District. Free. rparks.org.

Special guests, including the World’s Tallest Scarecrow, entertain visitors at Blackberry Farm during Pumpkin Weekends.

Randhurst Village Fall Fest: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Randhurst Village, off Randhurst Village Drive, Mount Prospect. Pumpkin decorating, tractor rides, face painting, balloon twisters, stilt walkers, bounce house and more. Stillman Nature Preserve will be bringing owls. Free entry and activities. No tickets required. randhurstvillage.com.

Light Up the Sky: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at James O. Breen Community Park, 3615 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles. Lighted kite show by professionals from Chicago Kite. DJ entertainment from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Treats for purchase from Sugar Mama’s Mini Donuts and Wild Fries food trucks. Free. stcparks.org/events.

Chicago Beer Fest: 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. Sample seasonal beers from over 65 breweries while perusing select museum exhibits. Early admission $70; general admission $55. No tickets will be sold at the door. thechicagobeerfestival.com.

Tasting booths from more than 30 local breweries will be stationed along Meadow Lake Trail, the Conifer Walk and the Frost Hill walking path during the Cider and Ale Festival Saturday at Morton Arboretum. | Courtesy of Morton Arboretum

Cider and Ale Festival: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Tasting booths offering more than 60 different ciders and ales from more than 30 local breweries will be stationed along Meadow Lake Trail, the Conifer Walk and the Frost Hill walking path. Tasting tickets include 20 3-ounce samples. There will be no general admission to the Arboretum Saturday. $65-$85; designated driver: $25-$35; kids: free for members, $12 for nonmembers. mortonarb.org.

Corridos y Canciones: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Performance by BFH (formerly known as Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl). $25, $22 for seniors, and $15 for kids 10 and younger. eccartscenter.org

Classic Albums Live: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Hemmens Cultural Center Main Stage Theatre, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 multiplatinum album “Rumours” is re-created live on stage. $26-$58. Tickets: (847) 931-5900 or hemmens.org.

Sunday, Oct. 5

Buffalo Grove Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, in Mike Rylko Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Meat, cheese, bakery, coffee, knife sharpening and more from 42 vendors, with weekly entertainment, a kids’ craft tent, and Business of the Week vendors and nonprofits. vbg.org/165/Farmers-Market.

Great Midwest Train Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Over 110 exhibitors selling new and used model trains, accessories, parts and more. $7 online or $8 at the gate; cash only. Free for kids 11 and younger with an adult. trainshow.com.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Get a look at 19th-century farm life Sunday, Oct. 5, during the Autumn Harvest Festival at Spring Valley Nature Center Heritage Farm in Schaumburg. | Daily Herald file photo, 2023

Autumn Harvest Festival: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg. Demonstrations of 19th-century farm life, kids’ crafts and games, pumpkin decorating, live music, food and beverages and more. $5 per person or $20 per family; free for kids 2 and younger. parkfun.com.

Oktoberfest: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Twin Lakes Recreational Area, 1200 E. Twin Lakes Drive, Palatine. Games, hayrides, food and drinks, raffles and more. Live music by Die Musikmeisters. Food for purchase includes bratwurst with sauerkraut, German potato salad and Oktoberfest beer. Donate five nonperishable food items to receive a free pumpkin, or buy one for $5. Free. saltcreekpd.com

Authors Fair 2025: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Meet with local authors. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Free. gailborden.info.

“John Candy: I Like Me”: An Evening with Ryan Reynolds & Friends: 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. The 2025 documentary presented by producer Ryan Reynolds. Tickets start at $79.05. msg.com

Wednesday, Oct. 8

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns: 6-10:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 8-12, 15-19 and 22-26, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See hand-carved, LED-lit jack-o’-lanterns staged along a festive paved pathway where visitors will encounter characters and can watch live pumpkin carving. $22-$27 for adults, $15-$18 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/halloween.

Thursday, Oct. 9

During Witches Night Out Thursday, Oct. 9, take advantage of specials, discounts, giveaways and more at participating business in Long Grove. | Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations

Witches Night Out: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Downtown businesses will offer specials, discounts, giveaways and more. Check in and registration will take place at the Village Tavern, 135 Old McHenry Road. Free; registration is recommended but not required. longgrove.org/festival/october-days.

John Cleese & The Holy Grail at 50: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Celebrate 50 years of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” with John Cleese. Tickets start at $75.50. geneseetheatre.com.

Ongoing

Goebbert’s Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 30 at Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center, 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Animals, corn stalk mazes, wagon rides, pig races, fall food, produce and more. Some attractions are only available on the weekends. $19 weekdays; $23 in advance online and $26 at the door on weekends; free for kids 2 and younger. Extra fees for animal rides ($8) and gem mining ($10-$25). goebbertspumpkinfarm.com/fall-festival.

McHenry Stade’s Farm Market: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 31 at 3709 Miller Road, McHenry. Free. stadesfarmandmarket.com.

Randall Oaks Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Nov. 2 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Pedal tractors, pumpkins and fall treats for sale, and on weekends, hayrides for $3 and animal shows at 1:30 p.m. $6; free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/fall-festival.

Happy Times Pumpkinfest at Didier Farms: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except Tuesdays, though Sunday, Oct. 26, at Didier Farms, 16678 Aptakisic Road, Lincolnshire. Amusement rides, shows, fall merchandise, pumpkin sales, fall treats and more. Free entry; fees for rides and attractions. happytimespumpkinfest.com

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: 5-11 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays, through Nov. 1, at Six Flags Great America, Six Flags Drive, Gurnee. Thrills by day and frights by night with haunted houses, scare zones, spine-chilling shows and rides. Plus, kids Boo Fest and Oktoberfest. Tickets start at $45. sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

Jack O’Lantern World: Time slots start around 6 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 1 at Paulus Park, 215 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, and The Forge, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont. See and explore thousands of pumpkins arranged in displays and more, plus a pumpkin patch, 30-foot inflatables, food trucks, a beer garden, mini golf and more. Tickets range from $17.99-$27.99. Thejackolanternworld.com.

Find more here.

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Village Board of Trustees meet tonight

Posted in Appointments, Aunt Blabby, BCFPD, Big Red, Board of Health, Building Department, Clown Car, Dumb and Dumber, ePacket Agendas, Equestrian Commission, Ethics, Finance Committee, Intergovernmental agreements (IGA), Jewel-Osco, Minutes, OMA, OP/Ed, Pension Funding, Plan Commission, Police Pension Board, Police Reports, Politics, Property Taxes, Public Safety, Resident Spotlights, Roads & Bridges Committee, Taxes, Transparency, Unions, VBHPD, Village Attorney, Village Board, Village Clerk, Village Code, Village Director of Administration, Village Engineer, Village President, Village Treasurer, Yabba Dabba Doo, Zoning Board on September 29, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Village Board of Trustees will be conducting their regular monthly meeting this evening beginning at 6:30 PM. Topics on their agenda include:

A copy of their agenda can be viewed and downloaded here.

Related: “Barrington Board votes unanimously to approve the Claremont residential subdivision proposal” 

Editorial note: Darby Hills, “…formally submitted her letter of resignation from her position as Trustee for the Village of Barrington Hills, effective September 1, 2025.” Unfortunately, we cannot cite anything of any significance she contributed in her 3.5 years seated on the Board of Trustees and that is a pity.

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