Beautiful picture! I have my rose bushes still blooming up here 1 hour south of Chicago also!!! Even though we've had some heavy frosts, seem easily at least 2 to 3 weeks behind with the leaves changing also.
So here's my 2 cents. Give Veterans Honor Rose bushes to people on your Christmas lists and you will be given thanks for years. They are that good.
Ever since they were introduced they have been winning sweepstakes awards at the flower shows. I hated roses until I saw this one. Every one is a "wow" -- a perfect cutting rose. Trust me on this one. [OK - I'm getting down from my soapbox now]