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The holiday season always reminds me just how special our community is. From the twinkling lights lining downtown Arlington Heights to the cheerful smiles you see while shopping local, there’s something magical about this time of year.






As you flip through this month’s issue, I hope you’ll take a moment to enjoy the stories that celebrate the people, places, and traditions that make our town shine. Every page is filled with neighbors doing great things—and with the local businesses who make Stroll possible. Their support allows us to share these uplifting stories with you each month.
This season, I encourage you to shop local and show your appreciation by supporting the businesses that sponsor Stroll--if it weren’t for them, this FREE magazine would not be made possible for our community.
From all of us at Stroll, thank you for sharing your stories, your energy, and your journey with us. Here’s to a December filled with love, gratitude, and connection… and to a bright new year ahead.

Merry Christmas Arlington Heights....& enjoy the STROLL!

Dolly McCarthy, Publisher



bring



with the


Mayor, can you start by introducing your family to our readers? Cindy and I have been married for 37 years and have four adult children. Stephanie, 33, is our oldest and a teacher at Olive School, and is married to Ryan who also grew up in town. Their son Greyson is our first grandson, and he is 19 months old. They are also expecting another child, and Stephanie is due next March. Alex is 31, a dental hygienist and she is married to Cody. They are planning for a family soon, which Cindy and are thrilled about. Jimmy is 28, is in sales for outdoor living spaces for an Arlington Heights company, and his partner is Meg. They have our second grandchild Jimmy (JJ), who also has a sister and a brother that we love as our own, named Charlotte and Jack, respectively. Nick is 26 and is single and enjoying everything about his wonderful life as an ER Nurse, a Wilmette fireman and musician. This grandpa is excited for a large team of grandchildren someday! Cindy and I have two goofy dogs named Goose (105-pound Doberman) and Daisey (Boxer).

How long have you and your family lived in Arlington Heights, and what originally drew you to this community?
Both Jim and I have been nearly lifelong residents of Arlington Heights. We both attended D25 and D214 schools and have lived here for most of our 63 trips around the sun! We both agreed that we wanted to raise a family where we grew up and did not consider any other option. We are so thankful to have been able to take advantage of all that Arlington Heights offered for our family.
What do you love most about raising your family here?
What I love most about Arlington Heights is the safety and sense of community that I experienced as a kid, adult, dad, grandfather – and now, as your Mayor. We have fabulous schools, parks, the library, wonderful neighborhoods and residents. Arlington Heights is everything a family could ask for.
Arlington Heights is such a vibrant town—what are you most proud of in recent years, and what exciting developments or initiatives are you looking forward to? Arlington Heights is a role model example of what a great town can be. Our downtown is something to be very proud of in so many ways. Business owners have spent their lives and fortunes investing in this community and we are blessed to have these gifts available to enjoy every day. We have always had great partnerships with our fabulous park district and library, and now we have the greatest central business district any community could ask for. Great restaurants and entertainment are available every night of the week, and I think most people enjoy having so many fantastic options. One of my biggest goals over the next four years is to protect this healthy environment our leaders have built, and to find ways to expand downtown growth east of Dunton, west of Evergreen, south of the tracks and north of Sigwalt. This could be the next great redevelopment for the next generation to enjoy.
How does your family stay connected and involved in community life? We shop, entertain, work and play locally as much as we can. Jim’s architectural office is in town, I work at Village Bank in town, and all four of our children live locally; we all continue to enjoy everything Arlington Heights has to offer.
Outside of your public duties, what are some of your favorite ways to spend time together as a family? Our family has a place in central Wisconsin that we have been enjoying since my parents bought it in 1967. That river

house was a big part of my childhood, and I know that my children feel the same way. We go there as a family often as we can; it’s a quick escape from the pressures of reality and a wonderful way to reconnect with each other during all our busy lives. Family is our priority, and we do all that we can to spend time together whenever we can wherever we are.
Do you have any family traditions—holidays, local events, or routines—that are especially meaningful? We have many family traditions that we hold dear to our hearts. Some are small and silly, while others are more meaningful. The biggest is that we always host Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at our house, even though the kids are grown up now. Everyone in our family finds their way back to our home for special holidays.
With the holiday season here, how does your family celebrate Christmas or the winter holidays? Christmas is always the big family focus. When the kids were small, we would shop together and separately at Woodfield and reconnect for dinner at Red Robin. We still get family ornaments made for the tree and look forward to pictures with Santa for the grand kids. We are a family that enjoys all seasons, and winter is no exception. We always look forward to snowmobile season up north and we spend as much time as possible riding trails after the holidays.
What’s something about you/your family that most residents might be surprised to learn? Not many people know that I play guitar in a rock cover band called EXIT 147 and have played music most of my life. Recently the band was re-built with fabulous, talented young people. Our son Jimmy is the male singer and our other son, Nick, is the drummer. We have two super talented female singers that also grew up in Arlington Heights; one is Diana Matache, and the other is Mallory Leno. Jesse Sneath is an extremely talented bass player that rounds out


our presentation. The band plays at festivals and events all year and will be playing at Arlington Ale House on New Years Eve. Cindy used to enjoy going out to see me play in bands, but now she enjoys watching all three of her boys in the band! It’s always a fun night out for everyone.

What lessons or values do you hope to pass down to your children through your work and example? The world is much bigger than your own backyard. Cindy and I have always encouraged our kids to get involved as much as they desire and always leave the environment better than you found it. There are three kinds of people in the world…those that make things happen, those that let things happen, and those that wonder what just happened. We asked our kids, and I ask everyone – including our children, which one do you want to be? Get involved and make the world a better place somehow. Our kids have all grown and began their careers and for two of them so far, families of their own. They are flourishing because of what we expected from them as children. We sincerely hope that they will all continue to grow and give back so that they can be as thankful and proud as Jim and I are



What is your vision for Arlington Heights in the years to come and also in the short term - the new year ahead? My clearest vision for the future of Arlington Heights is to remain true to what (I strongly believe) has become the best place in Illinois to raise a family. I feel blessed and I want future generations to feel as thankful as I am today. I feel extremely obligated to ensure this happens, and to move forward with whatever development comes to the 326 acres on the west side of town, while ensuring that our community is served well. That development has the potential to be one of the greatest additions to Arlington Heights, and I am committed to ensuring that outcome. I know the Bears organization feels the same way, so together we will work hard to pave the way for a fabulous entertainment destination development, unlike anything else in the entire region. Hopefully that project will get the support it needs from Springfield and plans will start to develop before too long.
Finally, what message would you like to share with your fellow neighbors and residents who call this community home? To the residents and business owners across our great town, I encourage you to get involved and stay involved. I encourage everyone to continue to play local, spend local and support local as much as you can. Our businesses count on your support and our public services and schools keep getting better financed due to every dollar that is spent locally. Arlington Height is our family’s “forever home,” due to the many great opportunities we all enjoy here.






A HOUSE IS MORE THAN a home; it is a long-term financial asset. For futureproofing their legacy, homeowners should incorporate their house, other properties and assets into an estate plan. Estate planning helps you prepare for the future by deciding what happens to your home and other assets. Here are the basics:


We protect your interest with a fierce devotion to solutions that maximize your bottom line. We commit to the highest principles of integrity, excellence, and client services. We grow with you by evolving our service to accommodate your naturally changing conditions.
What is an estate plan, and how is it different from a will? A will is a legal document that dictates what will happen to your assets after your death. Estate planning is a broader process of legal arrangements to prepare for when you pass away or during your life when you can no longer make decisions for yourself. Your estate plan may include trust, durable power of attorney and other documents.
How does owning a home affect my estate? Your house is likely one of the most valuable things you own. The way your name appears on the deed, whether there’s a mortgage, and whether you co-own the home are important details to know when planning your estate.
Can I pass on my home without a will or trust?
In some states, like Illinois, there are tools like a “transfer on death” deed (TODD) that designates who should receive your house after your death and avoids the probate process. Make sure your title records are current—especially if you’ve refinanced, changed your name, or adjusted ownership—to avoid confusion and prevent issues like title fraud.
What happens to my home if I don’t have a plan?
If you don’t have a will, estate plan, or other legal instructions, state law decides who inherits your home. That process can be complicated and might not reflect your wishes. It can also create long delays and stress for your family. Purchasing a home is a great time to start building or updating your estate plan. An estate planning attorney can help you build a plan that fits your needs and complies with state laws.
Contact Anthony J. Madonia & Associates, Ltd. our team is ready to help. Contact us at (312)











BY RESIDENT TARYN SORENSEN
School you attend and grade you’re in? Prospect High School and I am in the 10th Grade. What street do you live on? Pine Ave. What sport do you play? I do gymnastics and I have been doing it for 14 years. What inspired you to start gymnastics? Once I started, I had fun so kept going! What do you enjoy most about gymnastics? Doing flips and doing any types of tricks. What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment was winning USA Gymnastics Region 5 Bars and I have to thank my parents and coaches for pushing me to my best. Who is someone you admire? I admire my parents because of all their hard work and dedication.

What advice do you have for others looking to get into gymnastics? It’s not about being the best right now, it’s about being better than you were yesterday! Beyond gymnastics, what do you like to do? Well, I do love to to play other sports, too. I’m involved in flag football and softball. If you were to continue gymnastics, what do you hope to become or accomplish someday? I want to make it to State and Regionals!

Are you an athlete or would you like to nominate an athlete? Scan QR Code to submit!

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The Police Christmas Kiddie Show at the Arlington Theater in 1957. Santa handing out candy canes to attendees at 115 N. Evergreen. Photo credit: The Arlington Heights Historical Society.








BY RESIDENT BRIDGET CHAVEZ
How long has your family lived in the community? 18 years. When and how did your pet come to join your family? My children (twins) turned ten (three days after Christmas), we decided for their birthday that we would rescue a boxer. We fostered Coco for two weeks and once he came home, we saw how comfortable he was with the kids and our home. We knew he was a keeper! What’s the one trait that makes Coco stand out from the rest? Coco has a love for sun bathing and snuggling with fuzzy blankets or humans with their fuzzy blankets. Does your pet have any unique talents or tricks? He is a very smart dog and does all sorts of fun tricks from fetch, paw, jump, and drop. Does your pet have any favorite toys or treats? He loves balls. When we tell him to get the ball he knows exactly what to get and will search and hunt and find it and drop it at your feet to await the throw and fetch.


Tell us about your favorite memory with your pet. Our favorite memory is when we brought Coco home from the rescue. Where does your pet love to hang out in the neighborhood? Coco loves to hang out and sun bath in our driveway, patio or patio window. He loves to play with our friends’ dogs when they come over. Are there any local businesses or parks your pet particularly enjoys visiting? Yes, Coco loves Tail Chasers for daycare a few days a week he goes and gets to hang out with all his favorite Scarsdale neighborhood friends. He enjoys learning new tricks and seeing his friends. If your pet could choose any adventure to go on, what would it be? Coco before we had a special fence use to love to go on adventures to run down the street to one of our neighbors houses and go play with their dog and son. What is your pet’s “pet peeve”? People walking in front of the house with their dogs when he cannot go outside and play with them.

Sunday, November 30Wednesday, December 24
Start of Advent
Monday, December 1Thursday, December 25
OMNI - Holiday Gift Drive
OMNI, 1111 W. Lake Cook Road Buffalo Grove
Make the holidays brighter for kids dealing with issues like abuse, domestic violence and poverty. www.omni4all.org
Monday, December 1Wednesday, December 24
A Christmas Carol Metropolis Performing Arts Center, 111 W Campbell St.
Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge is adapted for the stage in a familyfriendly holiday tradition. www.metropolisarts.com
Tuesday, December 2
7:00pm -10:00pm
Jingle Bingo for Gerry’s Cafe Arlington Ale House, 111 W. Campbell St., Unit 3
As you play Bingo and socialize, you’ll hear impactful stories from the dedicated employees of Gerry’s Cafe and their families, reminding us all of the importance of job opportunities and inclusion www.my.onecause.com
Thursday, December 4
6:00pm - 8:00pm
Minnie Makes – Crochet 101 Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont Street
Join in and learn new skills and a little history along the way. www.ahpd.org
Thursday, December 4
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Meet the Influencers: A Year-End Celebration
Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N Dunton Ave.
Join for an evening celebrating the community leaders in Arlington Heights who
have contributed to the library’s 2025 initiativeInfluencers of Arlington Heights, and the Books and Movies That Influenced Them. www.ahml.com
Saturday, December 6Wednesday, December 24
All Day
Toys for Tots Collection
Arlington Heights Police Department: Lobby, 200 E. Sigwalt Street
The Arlington Heights Police Department is collecting new, unwrapped toys for the annual Toys for Tots drive. www.vah.com
Saturday, December 6
St. Nicholas Day
Saturday, December 6
8:00am - 9:15am
Arlington Heights Rotary Club Santa Run Metropolis Performing Arts Center, 111 W Campbell St. A festive run/walk to support the Rotary Club’s Community Grants Program. Stroll Scarsdale is a proud sponsor of this event. www. rotarysantarun.com
Sunday, December 7
National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day
Sunday, December 7 10:00am -12:00pm Holiday Shopping Event with RMHS Interact Club Rolling Meadows Meijer, 1301 Meijer Drive, Rolling Meadows Please join the Rotary Club of Arlington Heights in shopping for Arlington Heights families in need this holiday season. www.portal.clubrunner.ca
Sunday, December 7
7:00pm - 9:00pm
Holiday Cabaret
Metropolis Performing Arts Center, 111 W Campbell St.
A holiday cabaret performance by SOPA. www.metropolisarts.com
Friday, December 12
1:30pm - 2:30pm
Best-Loved Stories and Songs of the Holidays
Memorial Library, track 20 days of reading and earn play-to-win prizes as well as a prize book of their choice. Readers will also be entered to win a weekly drawing for Chicago Wolves ticket vouchers. www.ahml.com

Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N Dunton Ave. Celebrate the season with this heartwarming program of music and storytelling featuring vocalist Jenny Riddle and pianist Jeffrey Panko. www.ahml.com
Saturday, December 13 10:00am -12:30pm Frostival
Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W Fremont Street
Celebrate winter Jack Frost style and listen to strolling carolers, visit with Santa, and enjoy story time, crafts, and cookies and cocoa. www.ahpd.org
Saturday, December 13Sunday, December 14 9:01am - 4:30pm LEGO Train Exhibit at the Library
Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N Dunton Ave. Back by popular demand! See the amazing one-of-akind creations of the Northern Illinois LEGO Train Club at the library. www.ahml.com
Sunday, December 14 Start of Hanukkah
Monday, December 15 - Friday, January 31
Winter Reading at the Library Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N Dunton Ave. Cozy up with a fantastic book this winter. Babies, kids, tweens and teens can join Winter Reading at the Arlington Heights
Wednesday, December 17 1:00pm - 3:00pm Meet & Make
Greener Good Creative Reuse Shop, 843 N. Wilke Rd
Registration is helpful but not required. There is no cost for this event. www. greenergood.square.site
Friday, December 19
6:00pm - 7:30pm
Family Gingerbread House Decorating Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W Fremont Street
Helping to continue a wellloved tradition, families will receive all of the materials to build their very own gingerbread house. www.ahpd.org
Monday, December 22 - Friday, January 2
School District 25 Winter Break www.sd25.org
Wednesday, December 24
Christmas Eve
Wednesday, December 24 - Thursday, December 25
Arlington Heights Memorial Library Closed www.ahml.info
Thursday, December 25 Christmas Day
Friday, December 26Wednesday, January 1 Kwanzaa
Wednesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve
BY HOLLIS GORRIE, CLEARBROOK CEO
Clearbrook’s mission is to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through personalized, community-integrated support. Our focus is on delivering high-quality services that promote independence, dignity, and inclusion.
What types of services do you offer? Clearbrook offers a wide range of services including: Early intervention and child development programs, Home-based services for individuals with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, and other develop mental disabilities, residential and vocational support, assistive technology and therapeutic services, community integration and family support resources.
How has the Village of Arlington Heights shown their support for Clearbrook? The Village of Arlington Heights awarded CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) funding this year to renovate one of our CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) homes. The money was used for lowering the kitchen sink and installing new cabinetry for food accommodations. This was particularly important because one of the residents living in that home is in a wheelchair. Last year, we were awarded funds for another CILA rehabilitation, which included kitchen renovations and building a concrete ramp.

What inspired you to dedicate your time and effort to Clearbrook? My inspiration stems from a deep commitment to helping and supporting others. Seeing the transformative impact of personalized care on individuals and families has fueled this! Building programs that not only meet needs but also elevate lives is incredibly rewarding. The growth of Clearbrook’s Home Based Services program stands as a testament to what’s possible when mission-driven leadership meets community need.
Are there any upcoming fundraisers or events? We are currently in our Year-End-Appeal until the end December. This campaign is a wonderful opportunity for community members to make a meaningful impact by supporting Clearbrook’s mission of empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. There are also many ways for local businesses to get involved through corporate partnerships, including employee volunteer opportunities, event sponsorships, and corporate giving programs. Whether by volunteering, attending events, making a donation, or partnering with us as a business, community members and companies alike can play a vital role in supporting Clearbrook’s programs and the individuals we serve.

1835 W. Central Road Arlington Heights (847) 870-7711 www.clearbrook.org


WHAT’S COOKIN’ ARLINGTON HEIGHTS?
BY RESIDENT JEANNIE GLASSTETTER
INGREDIENTS FOR COOKIES
• 2 cups Sweet Cream Salted Butter (softened)
• 2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs
• 2 tablespoons Vanilla Extract
• 4 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 6 cups All-Purpose Flour
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Add the 4 sticks (2 cups) of butter and 2 cups of white sugar to your mixer.
2. Cream the butter and sugar until it is completely mixed.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of vanilla and 2 eggs.
4. Mix the cookie dough until light and fluffy.
5. Add 4 teaspoons of baking powder and mix.
6. Mix in the 6 cups of flour two cups at a time.
7. After you have added the 6 cups of flour the dough should be firm but not dry or crumbly.
8. Roll a handful of the dough out on a prepared surface until it’s about 3/8” thick.
9. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters.
10. Bake in an oven pre-heated to 350 degrees for 6-10 minutes depending on the size of the cookie cutter you used. Do not over-bake! Let your cookies cool and then they are ready for frosting.





INGREDIENTS FOR ICING
• 3 cups Confectioners’ Sugar.
• 1/2 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract.
• 2 teaspoons Light Corn Syrup.
• 4.5–5 Tablespoons room temperature water.
• pinch salt (optional)
• Gel food coloring & sprinkles for decorating
• Using a fork, stir the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, corn syrup, and 4.5 Tablespoons of water, and optional salt together in a medium bowl. It will be very thick and almost impossible to stir. Switch to a whisk and whisk in 1/2 Tablespoon more of water. If it’s too thick, whisk in another 1/2 Tablespoon of water or a little more until you reach the proper consistency.
“My degree is in graphic design, and I have always had a love for art and creativity. In 2005 I made a career move into the fitness industry (another one of my passions). While I absolutely love personal training and teaching Pilates, I do miss having a creative outlet. Making these cookies has allowed me to tap into that again. This is my go-to recipe for baking sugar cookies. It is foolproof and comes out perfect every time. The frosting recipe is really easy to make. There is a sweetness and softness that your typical royal icing doesn’t have.”
JEANNIE GLASSTETTER
Joe & Giuseppe - From their family to yoursHomemade Italian done right!
BY RESIDENT ROCCO SMERIGLIO

Have you ever had one of those nights when you don’t feel like cooking or just don’t feel like sitting in a typical restaurant? Maybe you just want a family member to call you and say come over for dinner? If you don’t get that call, I have a great alternative. The welcoming family of Pasquale and Margherita Taibi will make you feel like you are dining with family. Along with their boys, Giovanni and Massimo, the Taibi family makes Joe and Giuseppe a destination that is a must visit, this was a true family get together! At one point I wanted to ask who was hosting the holidays this year.
My wife Andrea and I asked long time Joe & Giuseppe patrons and close friends Pete and Cathy Walsh to join us on this culinary adventure. We started our evening with the Grigliata which is beautiful mix of grilled calamari,
and zucchini. This

“Rock, the way I would describe the food, and it sounds a little cliche, but authentic old world Italian, but enhanced with fresh ingredients and an elevated flavor profile. And mention, if you’re lucky, and play your cards right, you may get an audience with their renowned chef/owner Pasquale. Whose stories and conversation are worth more than whatever dinner may cost.”
PETE WALSH


is a unique dish that was an absolute treat for the seafood lover! We also dove into the Chicken Ortolano, the Tilapia Pasquale, Chicken Parmigiana, and the Linguine and Clams. While we all have our own preferences on our food choices, the consistency among all items was that everything was incredibly fresh!
My grandmothers’ kitchen came to life in Arlington Heights! Other menu items also include over 20 pasta variations, multiple fish, chicken, veal and meat options. Joe and Giuseppe offers a variety of beer and wine to accompany your dinner selections. We shared a 2019 Sonoroso red blend that complimented the meal beautifully.
When combining the high quality of the food, the warm






“I’ve worked with Home Comfort for many years and could not be happier with the service they provide. They are always prompt, professional and courteous. I’m loyal customer because Home Comfort earned my loyalty through they way they conduct business. Highly recommend!”
BRIDGET C.

BY EMILIE SCHIMMEL - OFFICE MANAGER
Home Comfort Services has been in business since 1998, and almost half our staff has been with us for about a decade. We’re made up of a variety of individuals, many with technical experience, and others with business, administration, and marketing experience. It takes a little bit of everything to operate a skilled trades businesses these days!
What’s the history and mission of your business? At Home Comfort, we focus on 5 core values. We Are: Sincere, Adaptable, Accountable, Respectful, Growing. These statements remind us that excellence is often found in the process of improvement, not some unattainable or arbitrary bar set for our team that no one can reach, which is perfection. This company was founded by a husband and wife team who wanted to hire great individuals, so it really has always been a people-centric vision and a community-focused endeavor. Growth comes naturally to businesses who authentically embody solid processes and practices that put customers AND employees first.

What’s your vision for the future of your business? We’re really excited to be able to grow our efficiencies for our customers both in the field, and in the office.
Given your professional expertise and experiences, what advice do you have for our residents, if any? Just take the time to learn about the HVAC systems you have in your home. They are often overlooked investments, taken for granted while they are working. And then it’s a crisis when they are not! Please schedule a maintenance visit with us to learn more than you probably ever wanted to about what you have working in your home.

500 E Touhy Ave, Ste H Des Plaines (847) 920-6224 www.homecomfort.net
We see your service trucks all over Park Ridge. What types of services does your business offer? We offer Heating and Cooling services, like seasonal maintenance visits, new system design and installation, service visits, and Indoor Air Quality products and assessments. Anything that makes your home or small business more comfortable - that’s what we do. Your safety, the quality and performance of your home’s operation, and the efficiency and which it’s doing all those things- that’s the language we speak.
What sets you apart from the rest? First, customizable Comfort Plans. Memberships with huge repair savings that only cover the equipment you have and you need, not a one-size or one-price fits-all model. Secondly, we are very product and technology-forward. We invest a lot of time in training on products and solutions to hit the market, and we GEEK OUT so you don’t have to. And Third, customer conveniences. Online booking, free estimate builder, text to pay, dispatch notices, booking confirmations, monthly memberships... you name it, we’ll make it easy for you. We are always looking for the next solution for YOU!





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