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Riley Heruska
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For years now, BubbleLife has brought you a weekly update from the Highland Park and University Park Police Departments. Although we will no longer be posting these updates, there is now a new way for you to track all of the local crime reports in your area. 

From now on, you'll receive all of your local police reports via our Crime Reporter. We have installed one of these monitors in each of our communities, so no matter where you live, you can keep up with nearby accidents and burglaries. The reports are even included in your daily newsletter. 

If you have any questions about this new Crime Reporter or about old Park Cities Police Blotters, please let us know. Thanks for using BubbleLife! 

Riley Heruska
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Not everyone is stampeding to Starbucks to snatch a PSL once the weather drops below 70 degrees. Some are looking to satisfy their fall cravings in other drinks.

If you're not a big pumpkin spice fan, here are five drink recipes that are practically made for the autumn season. 

Hot Mulled Cider 

With a blend of brown sugar, spices, apple cider and citrus flavor, this recipe is the perfect companion to a cold autumn day. It only takes 25 minutes to make but will keep you feeling warm and cozy for hours. 

Spiced Hot Dark Chocolate 

Martha Stewart put a twist on classic hot chocolate by using almond milk, spices and dark chocolate for a unique taste. Not only will the cinnamon and cardamom help boost your energy, but the hot bitterness will keep the chills at bay. 

Sparkling Apple Cider Punch 

Whether you add alcohol to the recipe or serve it without, everyone will enjoy this punch at your next fall gathering. All you'll need is store-bought apple cider, sparkling cider, ginger beer, lime, cinnamon and a star anise pod. Combine all the ingredients and serve the punch within five minutes. 

At-Home Caramel Latte

You don't have to go to a fancy coffee shop to get your caramel kicks this season. This recipe will show you to boil the milk on your own and create a caramel foam that has you making seconds as soon as you take the first sip. 

White Hot Chocolate 

This recipe couldn't be simpler. All you need are four cups of milk, some vanilla extract, whipped cream and some pieces of white chocolate to create a batch of this delectably sweet drink. 


What drinks do you like to make in the fall? Leave recommendations and recipes in the comments below! 

Riley Heruska
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Everyone knows that this is the best month for stories that send chills racing up your spine. Although you could just stick with a classic read from Stephen King, there are a handful of fantastic horror and thriller novels that have been released this year.

Here are the top five you should check out if you're looking for something truly terrifying. 

The Hunger by Alma Katsu

This reimagining of the Donner Party with a supernatural twist follows a group as they realize that something evil lurks in the mountains. They have dreams of their future in the West, but fate might have other (more gruesome) plans in store for them. By combining the supernatural with historical happenings, Katsu takes a chilling look at the volatility of human nature and what pushes people to their breaking points. 

"Deeply, deeply disturbing, hard to put down, not recommended reading after dark." - Stephen King

The Death of Mrs. Westaway by Ruth Ware 

From the author of The Lying Game comes this highly-anticipated tale of a woman who receives a mysterious letter bequeathing her a large inheritance. The woman, Hal, realizes that it must be a mistake, but she decides to use her tarot-reading skills to claim the money anyway. However, once she attends the funeral of her benefactor, she discovers that the situation might be more complicated than she initially thought. 

“Ware’s fourth novel is her best yet, with steadily increasing tension, a complicated twisty mystery, and a sharp, sympathetic heroine who’s up to the challenge of solving it… well-crafted, gothic-tinged suspense.” - Library Journal (starred review) 

The Cabin at the End of the World by Paul Tremblay 

Eric and Andrew are vacationing with the daughter, Wren, in a remote cabin when a stranger appears in their rental's driveway. The man warns the daughter that "None of what's going to happen is your fault." After, three more strangers arrive carrying menacing objects. The strangers use the daughter to enter the house, and what ensues is a gripping tale of apocalypse, sacrifice and fear. 

“Read Paul Tremblay's new novel, The Cabin at the End of the World, and you might not sleep for a week. Longer. It will shape your nightmares for months – that's pretty much guaranteed.” - NPR

Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman 

Erin and Mark set off to enjoy a dream honeymoon in Bora Bora, but while scuba diving in the blue sea, they stumble across something startling in the ocean's depths. Do they share their secret, or do they keep quiet? Either way, their lives will be forever changed. Fascinating and unpredictable, Something in the Water will certainly keep you on the edge of your seat. 

“With unreliable characters, wry voices, exquisite pacing, and a twisting plot, [Catherine] Steadman potently draws upon her acting chops... A darkly glittering gem of a thriller from a new writer to watch.” - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn 

Anna Fox has lived alone for far too long. She spends her days drinking wine and watching old movies while she spies on her neighbors from her window. It all seems very humdrum... until she sees something she was never supposed to witness. Can she figure out where the danger lies and who is behind the threat? Like Hitchcock's Rear Window, this novel is packed with paranoia and big twists. 

“Astounding. Thrilling. Amazing.” - Gillian Flynn


Which of these scary stories are you excited to read? Do you have other recommendations? 

Riley Heruska
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Since it's officially autumn, it's okay to fill an entire TJ's car with pumpkin spice goodies, right? Trader Joe's never fails to release a plethora of delectable seasonal treats, and today we're talking about the top five items you need to buy if you're a PS lover. 

1. Pumpkin Rolls With Pumpkin Spice Icing 

Even if you're rushing in the morning, you can easily pop some of these ready-to-bake rolls in the oven. They're just like cinnamon rolls, except more pumpkin-y! 

2. Pumpkin Cream Cheese 

Whether you're spreading it on bagels, toast, gingersnaps, or even fruit, this cream cheese is the bomb. Use it as a part of your centerpiece for a Halloween party or fall gathering. 

3. Pumpkin Pancake and Waffle Mix

There's no better way to greet an autumn day than by whipping up a batch of pumpkin pancakes. Plus, there's a gluten-free version, so everyone can enjoy this seasonal morning meal. 

4. Pumpkin Spice Cookies

Kids and adults alike will enjoy these petite shortbread cookies covered with pumpkin spice and yogurt. An added bonus: they're adorable and look great in clear cookie jars or on display at parties. 

5. Mini Hold the Cone: Pumpkin Ginger 

Since it's not too cold in Texas to enjoy a cold treat, this pumpkin ginger concoction is a must-buy. They're small enough to fit in with your diet, but delicious enough to wow guests after a meal. 


What pumpkin foods do you love to pick up at Trader Joe's? Let us know in the comments below! 

Riley Heruska
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If you struggle to fall asleep and stay asleep on a regular basis, you're not alone. Roughly 70 percent of American adults report that they obtain insufficient sleep at least one night a month, and 11 percent report getting insufficient amounts of sleep every night. 

One of the biggest problems people face when it comes time to fall asleep is dealing with stress. Almost half of the Americans surveyed reported that stress caused them to lie awake at night during some point in the last month. People who are constantly stressed have a difficult time lowering their blood pressure, breathing regularly, and calming down, which makes catching a full night of sleep challenging. 

Luckily, there are some things you can do to combat stress and increase your daily amount of sleep. Here are five tips that will get you those eight precious hours of shut-eye. 

1. Get outside and soak up some Vitamin D. 

Recent studies have led experts to believe that spending time in the sun on a daily basis can help regulate your circadian rhythm and make you sleep better at night. You don't have to spend hours in your backyard or anything - just take a walk around the block on your lunch break or eat dinner outside on a nice evening. Your body sees far too much blue light during the day, so it pays to give it some time with natural light.  

2. Invest in an essential oils diffuser. 

Believe it or not, what you smell while you're falling asleep can significantly impact your quality of rest. For instance, lavender has been shown to decrease your heart rate and blood pressure, which automatically makes you feel more ready for sleep. Head to the store and buy an aromatherapy diffuser so that you can use oils like lavender to fall asleep more quickly. 

3. Stop drinking that afternoon cup of coffee. 

Caffeine is a drug, and its side effects aren't always predictable. Although it usually takes less than five hours for caffeine to wear off, that cup of coffee you had at 4 PM might still be affecting you when you head to bed that night. Make a rule for yourself that you won't drink any caffeine after 12 PM, just in case it's disrupting your sleep patterns. 

4. Take a bath or a shower about an hour before you get in bed. 

When you take a warm bath or shower, then dry off, your body begins to cool down. This process triggers the urge to sleep since your body begins to cool down once you're in bed. Although most research evaluates the effects of baths, a 20-minute shower can also do the trick. 

5. Turn down the AC and keep your bedroom dark. 

According to research, your bedroom temperature should stay between 60 and 67 degrees Fahrenheit while you're snoozing. This makes it easier for you to fall asleep and can decrease feelings of restlessness. Also, keep your bedroom pitch black to encourage optimal sleep. Even little blinking lights from your phone or other electronics can interfere with your sleep, so try to eliminate as many sources of light as possible. 


How do you get a good night's sleep, even when you're stressed? Let us know in the comments below. 

Riley Heruska
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OCTOBER 1

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

An officer was dispatched to the Whole Foods in the 4100 block of Lomo Alto Drive in regards to a theft at 10:10 AM. The store manager advised the police that an employee had stolen two gift cards at $500 apiece on September 8. The employee admitted to stealing them and gave a written statement to the police. 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

At 4:56 PM, an officer was dispatched to the HPSV for a reported theft. A store manager stated that she noticed a coat valued at $8,000 was missing. Her last customer, whom she suspected took the coat, was in the store at 3:45 PM. The manager described the man to the police. 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

At 9:30 AM, while working as an off-duty security officer at the HPSV, an officer was approached by a reporting person who stated that a leaf blower had possibly been removed from the property without consent. There are no suspects or witnesses at this time. 

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

At approximately 2:59 PM, an officer was dispatched to the lobby at 4700 Drexel Drive to take a walk-in report of a BMV that occurred. The victim stated that at 9:00 AM, he arrived at Starbucks to pick up several cups of coffee he had ordered. He left his vehicle running in the drive lane with the door slightly ajar. When he returned to the vehicle, he saw someone running away and didn't think too much of it. Later, he realized his backpack was missing. 


OCTOBER 2 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

A theft occurred overnight in the 4400 block of Livingston Avenue. The victim stated that an unknown person stole the passenger side mirror of her vehicle between 8:00 PM and 7:00 AM the next day. 


OCTOBER 4 

FOUND PROPERTY 

At 7:56 AM, an officer was dispatched to investigate a found bicycle in the Fairfax Park. It was leaning against a fence with no bindings and the tires were flat. The bicycle was booked into evidence for safe keeping. 


OCTOBER 5 

IDENTITY THEFT 

An officer responded to a report of identity theft in the 4500 block of Rheims Place. The white female victim explained that there was an order placed on her husband's credit card without permission. 

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF 

At 12:16 AM, an officer was dispatched to a report of criminal mischief in the 3300 block of Beverly Drive. The victim stated that her Beto campaign sign in her front yard had been damaged between 7:00 PM on October 5 and 12:16 AM on October 6. 


OCTOBER 7 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

At 5:53 PM, two officers were dispatched to a Whole Foods in response to a stolen bicycle. The victim stated that he had been in Whole Foods for three hours when he returned and found his bike missing. There were no cameras that recorded the theft. 

CRIMINAL TRESPASS 

Two officers were dispatched to a report of a vehicle that had been rummaged through without any property stolen at 9:05 PM. The victim stated that she checked on her car on October 5, 11:00 PM, and did not check it again until October 7 at 4:00 PM. The vehicle had been entered and things had been disturbed, but nothing was missing. The incident happened while the car was parked in the 4500 block of Southern Avenue. 


All information provided by HPPD 

Riley Heruska
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OCTOBER 1 

UNAUTHORIZED USE OF VEHICLE 

A vehicle was stolen from a driveway in the 4400 block of University Boulevard overnight.  

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

A victim had two dirt bikes in the bed of his truck, and one was stolen during the night. The incident occurred int he 3100 block of Greenbrier Drive. 

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

A vehicle was burglarized in the 3900 block of Southwestern Boulevard between 5:00 PM on September 30 and 11:31 AM on October 1. 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

Two leaf blowers were stolen from the back of a trailer parked in the 3900 block of Glenwick Lane. 


OCTOBER 3 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

A victim stated that an unknown suspect took his scooter without consent. The theft occurred at approximately 5:00 PM in the 3000 block of Mockingbird Lane. 

BURGLARY OF VEHICLE 

An unknown suspect entered a victim's vehicle and removed property without permission while it was parked in the 4100 block of University Boulevard. 

UNAUTHORIZED USE OF VEHICLE 

A victim reported that their vehicle was stolen sometime overnight while it was parked in the 3600 block of Caruth Boulevard. 


OCTOBER 5 

FRAUDULENT USE OR POSSESSION OF IDENTIFYING INFORMATION 

An unknown suspect used the victim's identifying information to attempt to open an account with American Express. 

POSSESSION OF DRUGS 

At 9:32 PM, an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 3200 block of Lovers Lane. During the stop, narcotics were discovered inside the vehicle. The driver was placed under arrest for possession of marijuana and possession of a controlled substance. 


OCTOBER 6 

DUTY ON STRIKING UNATTENDED VEHICLE 

A reporting person advised police that his car was struck and the suspect vehicle fled the scene. The accident occurred in the 3000 block of Hanover Street at approximately 2:40 AM. 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

Someone removed the passenger side mirror from a vehicle without the owner's permission while it was parked in the 4400 block of Emerson Avenue between 8:00 PM on October 5 and 10:42 PM on October 6. 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

A reporting person's outside passenger mirror was stolen while the vehicle was parked in the 4400 block of Emerson Avenue between 6:15 PM on January 5 and 4:51 PM on October 6. 

THEFT OF PROPERTY 

At 6:21 PM, officers were dispatched to the 4400 block of McFarlin Boulevard in regards to a report of theft of vehicle parts. The officers conducted an investigation and a report was completed. 


All information provided by UPPD 

Riley Heruska
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Although you could just take your children to a seasonal Spirit Halloween popup or Party City for their costumes, those places can get a little pricey. Who wants to spend $50 on a dress-up outfit your child will only use for a few hours?

Instead, check out these more budget-friendly stores before resorting to more expensive options. You'd be surprised by the deals you can snag. 

Amazon 

Let's be honest: Amazon is pretty much the go-to option for must us, no matter if we're ordering books, toiletries, gadgets or Halloween costumes. Your little girl can be Princess Belle for as low as $18, and there's no shortage of superhero outfits for under $30. Plus, Amazon Prime can help you with those last-minute catastrophes and costume changes. 

Dirt Cheap 

If you're willing to brave the haphazardly stacked piles of Halloween decorations and costumes, you can find some real gems at this chain of discounted merchandise. Most of the costumes come from Halloween stores or Target, but they're more than 50 percent cheaper than they were last year. 

Walmart 

Surprisingly, Walmart has a pretty great selection when it comes to festive costumes. Your kid can be anything from Disney's Moana to the Black Panther, all for under $20. Take a look around in-store before popular sizes and costumes start to sell out. 

Target 

Right now, if you spend $30 on Halloween supplies at Target, you'll get $5 back. Browse their large selection of fun dress-up ideas, including Harry Potter robes ($20) and skeleton onesies ($15), to find the perfect outfit for your family's holiday. 

Sam's Club 

Next time you're making your weekend run to Sam's, check out the kid's costume section for a minute. You can purchase adorable toddler costumes for under $20 and cool outfits for your older kids that are under $40. If this little kid Paw Patrol costume doesn't do a number on your heart, I don't know what will. 

Where do you like to buy your children's Halloween costumes? Share your recommendations in the comments! 


*This post is not sponsored and has no affiliation with any of the stores listed above. 

Riley Heruska
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In this era of podcasts, there's a new audio show popping up every week. No matter what subject you're interested in, there's some witty, well-created podcast waiting to make your commutes and jogs more entertaining. 

If you or someone you know is an avid fan of learning and science, here are some fantastic shows that teach listeners a thing or two without sounding like a boring college course. Give them a listen, then share your newfound knowledge with others throughout the day.  

Radiolab

Hosted by Jad Abumrad and Robert Krulwich, Radiolab dives into a fun mix of documentary-style shows. They tackle everything from scientific discoveries in the modern day to human experiences from centuries before. Even if you're not someone who could sit through science lectures in school, you'll have a great time listening to these two interview experts and tell creative stories. 

StarTalk Radio 

It's almost impossible to be bored by science when Neil deGrasse Tyson is leading the show. He takes concepts from science and astrophysicist, then throws in a splash of humor to appeal to listeners of all kinds. Tyson also brings on comedians, celebrities and other fun voices as his co-host, so there's always a new voice on the podcast. 

The Skeptic's Guide to the Universe 

Every week, Dr. Steven Novella presents a new concept in an effort to promote critical thinking and a public understanding of modern science. One day he might be discussing Hypatia's career as a Greek mathematician with another host. The next, he might be delving into the differences between stars and planets. No matter what episode you start with, you'll feel smarter right away. 

The Infinite Monkey Cage 

Brian Cox and Robin Ince are both witty and intelligent as they take a look at the world they live in. They tackle topics like how the human voice works, why humans have immune systems and what an alien invasion really looks like. With more than 100 available episodes, The Infinite Monkey Cage is the perfect companion for your next big road trip. 

60-Second Science 

Do you like to stay up-to-date on the newest developments in science? Then you'll need to check out this podcast by the Scientific American Team. They bring you fresh news in the world of science every week, and the best part is that it only takes a minute to get up to speed. Listen on your way to work so you're always prepped with an interesting conversation starter. 


What other science podcasts do you love to listen to? Let us know in the comments. 

Riley Heruska
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Is visiting a Halloween horror attraction one of your October traditions? Then you're in luck because the DFW area isn't short on scary experiences for adults at this time of year. Here are ten of the most popular haunted houses in the metroplex. Visit them this weekend, if you dare. 

1. Cutting Edge Haunted House 
1701 E. Lancaster Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76102 

This haunted attraction is intense and full of impressive special effects. All of the actors are real people, but you won't believe that once you see their costumes and makeup. Maybe that's why Cutting Edge is commonly referred to as one of the best haunted houses in the entire nation. Should you decide to brave it, prepare for a night of shrieks and terror. The meat packing facility is creepy enough to leave anyone gulping in fear. 

2. Moxley Manor Haunted Attraction
510 Harwood Road, Bedford, TX 76021 

Voted as the "Must-See Haunted House of 2018," Moxley is the place to be if you take your Halloween experiences seriously. There are two haunted houses on the property: the traditional Moxley Manor and the Big Top Terror. From the moment you start to approach the property, you'll feel the eerie environment sending chills up your spine. Once you try this place, your standards for every other haunted attraction will definitely go up. 

3. Dan's Haunted House 
501 E. Swisher Road, Lake Dallas, TX75065 

This attraction is an outdoor walk-through experience, featuring creepy Japanese sets and highly-trained actors who will do their best to give you some frightening memories. If you're tired of murderous clowns, zombies and other overdone Halloween tropes, this unique haunted house might be the place to visit. 

4. Screams Park 
2511 FM 66 Waxahachie, TX 75167

Hoping to hit more than one kind of attraction in a night? This entire park is dedicated to haunted houses and terrifying experiences. Meet the witches of TerraMythica Castle or play in Harmum's Carnival of Chaos, as well as other scary options. Plus, there's live entertainment, a food court, pubs and other forms of entertainment that don't involve waiting in line. Bring the whole crew for a night of nightmarish enjoyment. 

5. Dark Hour Haunted House 
701 Taylor Drive, Plano, TX 75074 

After being featured on BuzzFeed and USA Today, Dark Hour has certainly established a fearsome reputation throughout the state. This year, the Halloween show's theme is "Sleep Ends. Nightmares Don't." Stop by to delve into the horrifying depths of the human psyche and experience a high-quality performance by talented actors. People describe the sets as "Broadway-like," so you won't be disappointed after a night spent at this Plano attraction. 

6. Hangman's House of Horrors 
4400 Blue Mound Road, Fort Worth, TX 

After 29 years of service, Hangman's really knows how to put on a show for locals. Check out the traditional Hangman's House, a 100-year-old abandoned government facility, or test your nerves during a zombie outbreak. There's also a 3-D attraction called "No Place Like Home" that will trick your mind and throw in a few startling moments. If you have kids who want to tag along, that might be one of the best attractions for them. 

7. Thrillvania Haunted House Park 
2330 Co Road 128, Terrell, TX 75161

Whether you're interested in visiting The World Famous Verdun Manor or seeking a few thrills in Cassandra's House of Clowns, there's something for every kind of Halloween fiend at this park. There's even a Trail of Torment haunted by a mad psychologist. The park changes a bit every year, so even if you've been before, you're always in for some new scares. 

8. Tayman Graveyard Haunted Theme Park
4721 Cecillia St, Midlothian, TX 76065

Described as a "hellish nightmare taking place across multiple attractions" and a "true night of terror," Tayman Graveyard provides a truly chilling experience. The attraction features multiple haunted houses for one entry price, so you can spend an entire evening pretending you're in a horror movie. The authentic actors certainly help your imagination run wild. 

9. Reindeer Manor Halloween Park 
410 Houston School Rd, Red Oak, TX 75154

For the 45th year, this haunted attraction will feature four different haunted houses, each with different themes. You can attend a killer party in a Gothic mansion, immerse yourself in a creepy arcade game, solve murders at a haunted mortuary or escape a killer clown in a pitch-dark house. Yikes. No wonder some reviewers have referred to Reindeer Manor as the "best haunted house around." 

10. Hatch and Kraven's Slaughterhouse 
1400 W Taylor St, Sherman, TX 75092

Rumor has it that Hatch and Kraven Modair, a pair of butcher brothers who lived in Sherman, were taught the art of blades from a young age. When their father died and the depression hit in the 1930s, they ran out of meat to butcher and were left struggling to survive. Eventually, they turned to more murderous methods of earning a living. Should you choose to venture north of Dallas and check out the slaughterhouse, prepare for some terrifying jump scares and real-life night nightmares. 
 
Where will you go to get your scream on this Halloween season?