Blog

Today is National Discovery Day, and we’re sharing some incredible places that are hidden gems right in your own backyard here in the Lake County area.  From theatre shows to indoor adventure parks to gaming simulators to animals, we’ve got an incredible selection for just about every set of interests and hobbies.  Let’s explore our community and support some new businesses and creative establishments together. more The Citadel Theatre Company in Lake Forest, IL This beautiful, small theater company presents a wide range of theatrical productions year round from drama, comedy, contemporary theatre, classics, and cutting-edge new works from emerging artists.  They also offer workshops to teens and children, allowing kids to explore the joy of self-expression through dance, theatre games, improv, voice and character development.  You can grab tickets to individual performances, or join as a subscriber for special benefits and perks! Lambs Farm in Libertyville, IL This delightful stop off is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy country life through a trip to the farmyard, featuring a petting zoo, mini-golf mini train ride, bouncy house, and old-fashioned classic carousel.  There’s also plenty to do for furry friends with the Dogwood Pet Shop, a great eatery on site at the Magnolia Cafe and Bakery and Sugar Maple Country Store, and prime shopping/antiquing at the Cedar Chest Thrift Shop.  Best of all, each visit and purchase supports our community by helping maintain operations!  You’ll have a blast while supporting people with developmental disabilities who live and work at Lambs Farm. Improv Playhouse in Libertyville, IL Improve your comedic timing, boost your confidence, and increase your ability to think on your feet by taking a class with the fine folks at the Improv Playhouse!  Offering classes in comedy, improvisation, stand-up, acting and so much more, there’s no shortage of fun ways to explore self-expression.  And if you prefer to spectate, there’s plenty of opportunity to do that at their Saturday Night Improv Shows or Stand-Up Comedy First Fridays. The Tempel Lipizzans of Old Mill Creek, IL Tempel Farms has been around for nearly 60 years, educating the public about the incredible Lipizzan horse, and sharing breathtaking live performances and so much more.  There are matinee and evening performances featuring incredible performance riding demonstrations, and giving visitors an inside look at professional dressage and competitive equine sports. The Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville, IL If you’re looking for a great way to connect with friends or a fun date night out, this is the place to be!  This gourmet kitchen establishment has a wine bar, live cooking kitchen for classes and events, and a retail store.  From wine tastings to cooking demos and classes, you’ll have a blast exploring your culinary prowess here. Explore everything from hand crafted tarts to Julia Child’s classic desserts to worldwide fare like Korean Dumplings! It’s a delicious local venue that you just have to try.

Inspired by rally cars, and built with high performance driving in mind, the Toyota GR Corolla has built a solid fanbase amidst race fans and performance enthusiasts.  A 300-horsepower turbocharged engine, All Wheel Drive aggressive stance, and sporty styling made it one of the most sought after hot hatches.  Fans got their first glimpse of the impressive Toyota GR Corolla last year in 2022 at Laguna Seca when it was named official pace car for the 2022 NASA National Championships.  This year, the vehicle is delivering an encore performance after being named the pace car for 2023. more For the September 2023 National Championships at the Pittsburgh International Race Complex in Wampum, Pennsylvania, the GR Corolla is sure to be turning heads with the MORIZO Edition. This model features red, white, and black graphics reminiscent of the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing color scheme, 300HP, and 295 Lb.-Ft of Torque with Racing Livery used for pacing duties.  The GR Corolla will pace more than 250 entrants competing across 25 different classes at the Pitt RAce, a 2.78-mile, 19-turn, natural terrain course known for its challenging layout, elevation changes, and stunning scenery. As part of an ongoing partnership between Toyota and NASA, every customer who buys a new GR Corolla will automatically be enrolled in a one-year NASA membership, with an included complimentary track day at a NASA High Performance Driving Event.  TOYOTA GAZOO Racing is continuing the program, first started in 2019, which gives GR Supra owners performance driving experiences with expert instructors. Since then, the program has expanded to include all GR Sports cars, with the GR86 and GR Corolla joining alongside the GR Supra. Want to learn more about the 2023 GR Corolla? Say no more! We’ve got you covered. The new 2023 GR COrolla features a three-cylinder turbocharged engine with 300 HP, 273 lb.-ft of torque, and the MORIZIO Edition features 295 lb.-ft of torque.  The incredible 1.6 liter engine is mated to Toyota’s rally developed GR-Four AQD System, allowing drivers to select an power distribution option of 60-40, 50-50, or 30-70 to the front and rear wheels.  Drivers also have the ability to toggle between four driving modes: ECO, Normal, Sport, or Custom, allowing for adaptability to a wide range of driving styles. The 2023 GR Corolla is also exclusively equipped with an intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), and is available in three grades: GR Corolla Core, Circuit Edition, or the ultra-aggressive GR Corolla MORIZO Edition. The MORIZO Edition features specialized enhancements designed by GR Engineers including an exclusive close ratio iMT with shorter gearing, increased chassis rigidity, and an uptick of near 20lb ft of torque from other models.  It also is nearly 100lbs lighter in weight than the GR Corolla Circuit Edition thanks to the removal of its rear seat and several other components.

Women's Equality day is celebrated in commemoration of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution, which awarded women the right to vote in 1878.  In 1971, Congress deemed August 26th would be henceforth Women’s Equality Day. We’re going to share 5 mini profiles on notable women who pioneered the automotive industry from driving to design to engineering, and highlight some big names in racing. And stick around to the end to check out some great YouTube Videos of notable women in the automotive industry who are disrupting the status quo and changing the game! more 5 Notable Women in Automotive History Bertha Benz - Bertha completed the first successful cross-country trip in August of 1888 - a whopping 66 miles from Mannheim to Pforzheim.  With no road signs to guide her, and many roadways being unpaved dirt roads.  It successfully promoted the first automobile, created by her husband Carl Benz in Mannheim in 1886 two years prior. Margaret Wilcox - Margaret is considered one of the pioneers of automobile history thanks to her invention of the in-car heater system.  In November of 1893, her heating system received an official patent; she had created a combustion chamber consisting of a system of pipes beneath the passenger seat which disbursed hot water.  In addition to heating the interior, this invention also helped defog the windshield during cold or inclement weather. Wilhemine Erhardt - Wilhelmine was the wife of Eisenach Vehicle Factory manager, Gustav Ehrhardt. She became Germany’s first female car driver, and on August 3rd 1901, she was able to participate in the Eisenach-Meiningen long distance auto trip through the Hainich Mountain range.  Though she didn’t win the race, it was by a narrow margin that she’d lost placing. Mary Anderson - This young woman was inspired to create the very first automatic windshield wiper design, and applied for a patent in 1903; she was awarded the patent for her window-cleaning device on the 10th of November that same year.  The original device had a hand-operated level mounted at steering wheel level, which removed snow, rain, and sleet from the glass. Suzanne Vanderbilt - A member of General Motors only women-led “Damsels of Design” team, which disbanded in the early 1960s. Suzanne worked her way up the company roster, eventually being dubbed the Chief Designer of Chevrolet’s Interiors Studio in 1972, and was in charge of the interior soft trim on all GM lines.  She helped design interiors for models such as the Chevy Nova, Camaro, and the Chevette. How The Car Mom, Kelly Stumpe, is shaking things up in the automotive industry: Learn more about Tiffany Scherado, leader of the Amazing Women in Automotive Group: Learn about the trailblazing women of automotive history:

There’s nothing we love more than hitting the open road and taking in the gorgeous landscapes and scenery that sprawl across US highways and byways.  Today, we’re exploring the iconic North Shore Scenic Drive, also known as Highway 61, which stretches from Duluth, Minnesota up through to the Canadian Border! Running along the coast of Lake Superior, you’ll find no shortage of absolutely breathtaking pine forests, rocky cliffs, lakeside wildlife, and so much more.  So let’s check it out and plan our getaway itinerary together! more What to see over the 154 mile journey along North Shore Scenic Drive: Duluth, Minnesota - This port city along Lake Superior is a bustling hub of culture, history, nature, and entertainment.  Notable stop-offs include Great Lakes Aquarium, the William A Irvin Museum, T he Lake Superior Zoo, Lake Superior Railroad Museum, Duluth Rose Garden, Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, Aerial Lift Bridge, and so much more. If you’re looking for lodging between your first two stops, seasoned travelers of the route recommend the Larsmont Cabins and Cottages. Two Harbors - Highway 61 is a main route through Two Harbors, where you’ll enjoy gorgeous natural wonders such as Agate Bay Beach, Gooseberry Falls State Park. Iona’s Beach Scientific & Natural Area, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Superior Hiking Trail. History nerds will enjoy a visit to the Two Harbors Lighthouse Museum, Lake County Historical Society, 3M Birthplace Museum, Duluth and Iron Range Depot Museum, and North Shore Architectural Antiques Store. If you’re looking for lodging, previous visitors highly recommend Breezy Point Cabins in Two Harbors or Cove Point Lodge in Beaver Bay. Beaver Bay and Silver Bay - Gemstone aficionados and geologists will fall in love with the Beaver Bay Agate Shop f or gorgeous local gemstones and artisan jewelry so you can take a bit of nature back home with you!  But don’t shop too much, you’ll want a light pack to explore all the natural wonders of the area including Tettegouche State Park, Palisade Head, Black Beach, Beaver River Falls, Pellet Island, and Gitchi Gami State Trail. Schroeder - If you’re looking for excitement and thrills direct from mother nature, you’ll have a blast here exploring Temperance River State Park, Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center, Father Baraga’s Cross Landmark, and the Cross River. Lutsen - This stop off is a haven for adventure as you explore Caribou Lake, Cascade River State Park, and Lutsen Mountains. And when you’re done, you can kick back and relax with a tasting flight at North Shore Winery or play a few rounds at Superior National Lutsen-Golf Course If you’re wanting some cozy accommodations during this leg of the trip, local travelers passing through have stayed at The Mayhew Inn, Hungry Hippie Farm & Hostel, Trailside Cabins & Motel. Grand Marais - Visiting this destination is going to keep you very busy!  There’s the Grand Marais Lighthouse and harbor, the Gunflint Mercantile and Candy Shop, North House Folk School, Chik-Wauk Museum, Judge C.R. Magney State Park, Artist Point, and Nature Center on Gunflint Trail, Historic Cook County Museum, North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum Grand Portage -  Seated just 5 miles south of the Canada-US border, this northern community is the last stop on our journey, but not short on fun.  There’s plenty of nature to immerse yourself in at Grand Portage State Park and State Fores t, Pigeon River and High Falls.  Then check out the Heritage Center and Grand Portage National Monument (a recreated fur trade village.) Have you taken this route before? Let us know your picks for great places to stay and visit!

Today we’re exploring another great road trip opportunity, this time highlighting the Nebraska Sandhills National Scenic Byway (which is so beloved it has its own trip planning app!) Virtually untouched by development or human interference, this gorgeous byway is rife with scenic dune landscapes, rolling native grasses, sparkling blue lakes and streams, and incredible wildlife and ecosystems. more There's 272 miles of scenic driving to explore with gorgeous diverse landscapes, farmlands, and memorable views.  Dotted along the way you’ll find plenty of towns and cities worth stopping at for a bite to eat, a little bit of exploration, or some rest and relaxation. Plus, there’s more than 500,000 cranes migrating from the area seasonally, so you don’t want to miss that! Let’s take a look at some of the interesting towns you’ll find along your route: Ainsworth - Scenic and exciting things to explore in Ainsworth include the Keller Park State Recreation Area, the Sellors Barton Museum, and the Yellowthroat Wildlife Management Area. Alliance - This city is jampacked with fun activities and destinations!  You can explore history at the Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery, the Alliance Knight Museum, and Dobby’s Frontier Town. If you’re looking for something creative, check out Carhenge and Carnegie Art Center.  Nature fans will love Custer State Park, Chimney Rock Museum, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and The Mammoth Site. Anselmo - Take a drive over to the Victoria Springs State Recreation area to stretch your legs or campout under the stars. Arnold - Home to the Fort Cody Trading Post for good ol’ fashioned roadside souvenirs and kitschy collectibles, and then take a jaunt over to the Golden Spike Tower museum and historic site. While you're in town you can grab a bite to eat at its award winning and locally lauded eateries before you head back out on the road. Bassett - Museums of note in this old-timey Americana city include the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center and the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village. Nature lovers can take a trek over to the Smith Falls State Park for some kayaking or fishing. Broken Bow - History buffs will love the Custer County Museum, followed by some exploring at the Boneyard Creation Museum. Head over to the Kinkaider Brewing Company f or some craft brews, or perhaps to Prairie Grounds Cafe and Gifts while you’re in town. Grand Island - This stop off will thrill nature enthusiasts with a visit to the Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center to catch a glimpse and learn about the Sandhill and Whooping Cranes and their natural habitats.  Then swing by the Platte River State Park to do some birding!  History nuts will have a great time walking through the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, and enjoy a walk down the historic Townsley-Murdock Immigrant Trail site. Halsey - This city is home to the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands, perfect for scenic views, camping, and hiking.  From there you can check out the Bessey Nursery, Scott Lookout Tower, the Middle Loup River, and Dismal River OHV Trail. Merriman -  This village is perfect for a camping trip at the Cottonwood Lake Recreation Area, or take a trip over to explore Bowring Ranch Historical State park Nenzel - Adults will enjoy a stop off here to the Niobrara Valley Vineyards for some wine tasting and wine selection. St. Paul - Is perfect for history lovers to spend the day as you check out the Major League Baseball Museum, Tubby’s Firehouse Museum, and the Howard County Historical Village with authentic pioneer era buildings! Taylor - This stop off is home to Harrop Sandhills Park where you can enjoy hiking and camping as well as nature watching, the Log Cabin Museum, and the Taylor Community Arboretum. And be sure to grab a brew or two at Bootleg Brewers while you’re in the area. Valentine - Smith Falls State Park is where it’s at if you want to see the tallest waterfalls in Nebraska! It’s great for some peaceful hiking and nature photography opportunities.

Today is National Roller Coaster Day! Being car people, we understand the rush of new adventures and the need for speed, and that’s why today’s post is dedicated to some of the best amusement parks and coaster destinations in the Midwest, United States.  Coaster aficionados will scour the land to find the best fix of adrenaline rush from the drops, spins, dips, and twirls, and are always looking for better, faster, stronger thrills. Folks who love coasters will tell you that it brings them unparalleled joy, excitement, happiness, and satisfaction.  And we can’t say we blame ‘em!  So let’s hit the road to fun and adventure and check ‘em out on today’s blog. more Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio - This amusement park has been a favorite of coaster aficionados for decades!  Opened nearly 150 years ago, this memorable coaster and amusement park destination has been charming families for generations, inspiring thrill-seekers to test their limits with 70 adrenaline-pumping coasters and rides.  With 18 world renowned roller coasters, a rotating series of live entertainment and special musical guests, classic family friendly amusement park rides, there’s no shortage of entertainment. It has become a name synonymous with award winning ride design, from its classic wooden coasters to its boundary pushing steel coaster engineering. Some of the most memorable rides at the park include Steel Vengeance, Millennium Force, Crosscurrent, and  GateKeeper.  Guests who visit the park recommend booking a stay at these nearby accommodations: Cedar Cove, Cedar’s Point Hotel Breakers, South Shore Inn, The Stables Kings Island in Mason, Ohio - With more than 100 rides and attractions, you’ll definitely want to add this to your must-see-coaster-destination list!  The park’s latest ride, the Orion Coaster, opened in July of 2020 and is one of only seven giga coasters in the entire world (a giga coaster has a height or drop of 300-399 feet) and the tallest, fastest coaster with the longest first drop in Kings Island Park.  The ride reaches a maximum speed of 91MPH and has a 300 foot drop that’s sure to knock your socks off!  Coaster fans also love Diamondback, Mystic Timbers, Flight of Fear, and the Banshee. For the coaster averse in your travel party, they can enjoy a day at the Soak City Waterpark, a ride around the park on the KI & Miami Valley Steam Engine Train, or even check out the Petting Zoo.  Guests who visit the park recommend booking a stay at these nearby accommodations: The Kirkwood Inn of Mason, Drury Inn & Suites Cincinnati Northeast Mason, Great Wolf Lodge Mason, English Manor Bed and Breakfast of Miami Township Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri - If you're looking for historic rides, you’ll want to catch the last season of rides on the Fire in the Hole coaster; this ride is closing after 2023 after nearly 25 million guests enjoyed half-a-century of thrills!  Featuring a storyline based on the real-life town of Maramos and the infamous arson of the Baldknobbers gang, you’ll ride through the burning town before plummeting through a splash down to extinguish the flames. It’s an absolutely unforgettable ride experience that’s soon to be history!  Other fan favorites include the Outlaw Run, PowderKeg, The Giant Barn Swing, and Thunderation.  For those with more mild interest in rides or attractions, they may enjoy the Tom & Huck’s River Blast experience, Mystic River Falls, or the Magnificent Wave Carousel.  Guests who visit recommend booking your accommodations at these nearby hotels: The Branson House Bed and Breakfast, Bear Creek Bed and Breakfast and Cabin Rentals, Hidden Falls Log Home Community, Best Western Music CApital In n, Grand Country Resort and Waterpark, Westgate Branson Woods Resort. Holiday World & Splashin Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana - This coaster and amusement park destination would give good ol’ Jack Skellington such joy he wouldn’t know what hit him.  Holiday World celebrates Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and July 4th through a series of themed coasters, live attractions, games, family rides, and more.  This theme park/water park hybrid, formerly known as Santa Claus Land, offers hours of unparalleled excitement for all ages.  Coaster fiends will tell you that the ride to beat is the Thunderbird, the first launched wing coaster in the US. This steel coaster launches you from 0 to 60MPH and features 2 crossovers with The Voyage coaster, a 125 foot vertical loop, a 140 foot Immelman loop, and if you’re looking for maximum thrills and excitement…choose the seat on the left wing, outside seat.  Visitors also recommend The Raven, The Howler, The Wildebeest, and The Voyage. Travelers to this coaster packed destination recommend booking your accommodations at: Santa’s Lodge, Santa’s Cottages, Lincoln Pines Lakefront Resort, Harvest Moon Suites, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jasper. Other regional coaster stop-offs to check out include: Adventureland Resort in Altoona, Iowa; Valleyfair in Shakopee, Minnesota; Michigan's Adventure in Muskegon, Michigan; Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri; Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Here at Classic Toyota, nothing means more to us than supporting our community and giving back to our neighbors! This August, we are pleased to announce that we’re continuing our mission to increase our outreach efforts and participate in even more charitable community support. Our dealership will be participating in the Kids in Need Foundation and Toyota Motor North America partnership and their “August Big Summer Giveback” Event. more In its inaugural year of fundraising, Toyota Motor North America was able to donate more than $1 million dollars to support the Kids In Need Foundation (KINF); this donation helped supply 32,416 backpacks to students in need across 91 elementary schools across the country. Thanks to the generosity of sponsorships and donations, under-resourced schools all over the USA were able to support students with essential supplies they needed to start the school year off on the right foot, giving them an opportunity for equitable learning experiences. This year, Chicago Region Dealers and Toyota Motor North America aim to meet or exceed last year’s fundraising goal! And here’s how you can help: For every service appointment which includes a tire rotation and GTMO oil change, Toyota will donate $3 to the Kids in Need Foundation Backpack Fund. There’s never been a better time to catch up on your routine maintenance! Give us a call today to schedule an appointment, and help give back to promote educational opportunities and support under-resourced families and children this upcoming year! Let’s work together to build a better, brighter future for the youth of America.

Today is Mountain Day! Instead of giving you a list of destinations near and far, we’re going to help you get ready to take the road less traveled with these great service tips to prep your vehicle for mountain roadways instead!  Let’s look at how to get our vehicles in tip-top shape for those challenging steep slopes and death defying curves. Have you recently gone on a journey ascending or descending from a mountain summit? Let our readers know your experience and tips and tricks in the comments! Bring your car in for a tuneup before you hit the road. Be sure to have your fluids changed and topped off, tires rotated and balanced, an engine tune-up, brakes checked, and that your tires are properly inflated to pressure.  Taking preemptive measures for a service appointment before you embark on your mountain travel will save you time, money, and aggravation in the long run. Prepare for emergencies with a fully stocked emergency kit. Be sure to stock up your spare emergency kit with first aid supplies, a tire patch kit, battery charger, emergency flashlights, road salt and/or gravel, a spare shovel, shelf stable food and water, warm clothing, various tools and safety gear for fixing flats and vehicle maintenance.  You can purchase a fully loaded kit online, or assemble your own. Be prepared to tackle mountain roads. Driving up and down mountains and navigating the bends and dips on the route can really keep you guessing.  Be ready for anything, and take extra caution.  Stay on your side of the road, and leave a little extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you; don’t tailgate or pass anyone on blind curves!  You’ll want to be prepared for sudden stops and short braking.  Look out for dirt and debris on the roadways, and potential hazards like water, mud, and snow.  Make sure to engage your parking brake when you’re pulling over to the side of the road to take in the view or if there’s an emergency, and place some rocks behind your tires to help prevent rolling back downhill.  If drivers behind you become impatient, it’s better to pull over to the side and let them pass so you can maintain proper speed. Keep your eyes peeled for special signage. Mountain roadways present additional hazards than your average residential or city street.  Make sure that you keep an eye out for animal crossings, as well as any steep graded roads, flooding areas, boulders or rocks falling, and other unpredictable foils of nature. Bring a Map and prepare for low-signal on GPS and SmartPhones. In this modern day and age, it’s all too easy to rely on our technology to do the navigation work for us. However, when driving up and down mountains and tucked away roadways, we’ll need to rely on manual navigation in case we lose reception.  Make sure you carry a local atlas and road map so you can plot your route before you leave, and refer to it to find alternate routes if need be on the fly with no reception to magically get you through.  It can also help to have a physical compass to denote the direction of your path, and help orient your spot on the map. Save your brakes and your engine from overworking. If you notice your car is struggling to make it up a steep incline, shift your vehicle into a lower gear to allow you to maintain constant speed.  If you need to brake frequently, pull over if you smell any questionable burning aromas; this will prevent you from burning out the brakes or getting into an accident.  Keep cool by rolling your windows down and turning off the AC to prevent overheating from making your engine work double time; likewise, if you notice it overheating you can blast the vehicle’s heat system to draw heat away from the engine until you can safely pull over.  Let your car rest at the summit or idle for a short period, allowing it to cool off and reducing the strain.

Schools are starting back up in just a few short days, so we thought it would be a great time to give student drivers a chance to get their first A+ of the school year.   Here’s some essential car maintenance tips for young drivers as they head back to class!  School your friends over cafeteria snacks with your amazing wisdom in all things automotive. more Check your seatbelts are working properly, and always remember to wear them. Not only is it the law, but it’s also imperative to your safety.  We know you’re in a rush to get to that school dance, the annual pep rally for homecoming, or even a froyo date with pals, but it’s important to get there safe and sound.  Make sure all passengers are wearing your seatbelts as well, not just the driver!  You can avoid costly traffic tickets and fines, as well as injury or death.  Be sure the seat belt fits properly, laying across your rib cage and pelvis, and that it latches securely and stays fastened if you tug on it. If your car has broken or outdated seatbelts, your local mechanic will be able to help you fit your vehicle with new, safer seat belt options. Bring your car in for a brakes inspection at your local mechanic shop. We know you’ve been out having the time of your life during summer vacation, driving to the beach, to theme parks, to the movies, etc.  And that’s why it’s important to bring your car in for inspection and service on a regular basis to ensure your brakes are properly working to keep you safe when you have to stop short.  If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side, vibrating, shaking, or making any funny noises when you slow down or come to a stop, it is more than likely you need a brakes system service appointment.  Don’t delay! Worn out brakes can mean you can’t stop quickly when you need to, or you may not be able to stop at all.  Keep yourself and your passengers safe with regular checks. Learn how to check your vehicle’s fluids, and top them off! Your vehicle will need regular refills, top-offs, and flushes of the various fluids in its system.  This includes wiper fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, motor oil, antifreeze/coolant, and sometimes even transmission fluid.  You want to make sure that you’re not delaying these checks and not letting things run dry.  Wiper fluid keeps your windshield clean and free of debris for proper visibility. Motor oil and regular oil changes will keep your engine running clean and prevent overheating.  Talk to your local mechanic to learn more about when and what you should be changing on your vehicle on average timelines, and check your owners’ manual for specific mileage needs for your make/model of car. Check that your interior lights and exterior brake lights/headlights are clean, clear, and shining brightly. Do a thorough test of your vehicle’s lights by checking headlights, high-beams, rear lights, turn signals, hazards, and brake lights.  As a friend or family member to walk around your vehicle as you test each one, and make sure to note what needs replacement or service.  Replace any and all worn-out or broken bulbs by taking a trip to your local auto parts supply store; your owners manual will help guide you to purchasing the right size, fit, and style of bulb. If replacing the bulb still hasn’t solved the problem, a trip to your local mechanic shop may be in order to check for electrical issues.  If everything is in working order but your headlamps look a little foggy, you can purchase a special cleaning kit from your local auto parts shop, or bring it in for a replacement piece of glass/plexiglass headlight covers.

The school year is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean the fun and adventure has to stop!  Today is National Book Lovers Day, so we’re celebrating the only way we know how: with incredible reading picks for your last blast of summer weekend getaway (or perhaps stacking your “TBR Pile” for the upcoming autumnal months!)  Whether you prefer to stow your books in an eReader for stolen glances while navigating as co-pilot, or you are the resident driver of the trip and prefer audiobooks, we know there’s something for you on our list.  So without further ado, let’s check it out and see if we can get on the same page as you by selecting some reading picks! more Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen (Audiobook narrated by Kate Mara) This psychological thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat! Filled with tension, trauma, and turmoil, the story follows the relationship between Catherine Sterling and her mother, Ruth Sterling.  This heartbreaking tale is a page-turning collection of secrets, lies, and the wildest ride of mother-daughter relationships!  If you’re looking for a dramatic, women centric tale to keep you engrossed, this fast-paced thriller is chock full of thrills to suck you right in. Alethea by Karina Day, Philomena Polefrone (Audiobook Ensemble Cast) SciFi fans will be immersed in this tightly woven plot filled with twists, turns, and tension!  Set in New York City in 2048, Sam Bixler is a scientist working for the world’s most powerful corporation, and is about to learn a shocking truth about the dark secrets her employer, Telos, is harboring beneath the surface.  Full of mystery, intrigue, and death defying thrills, this book will be the perfect exciting conclusion for your summer reading list. Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood (Narrated by Therese Plummer There’s nothing like a good summer romance to make you feel free as a bird and light as a feather!  Live vicariously through the cheeky and steamy love story between rival physicists Elsie Hannaway and Jack Smith, and follow along as the tension between them heats up in the lab and between the sheets.  Will Elsie get her dream job at MIT or will she get the man of her dreams? Por que no los dos!?  You’ll just have to find out in this thrilling summer read. The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud Fantasy fans will rejoice when they get their hands on the first installment of this imaginative trilogy!  Nathaniel is a magician’s apprentice with his heart set on a quest for revenge.  His dark intent to send a nefarious, strong-willed djinni on a quest to capture a sacred amulet thrusts him even further into the underbelly of society. Jampacked with thrills, chills, adventure, espionage, rebellion, and even murder, this is sure to keep younger readers riveted to their seat from beginning to end. Mission Unstoppable: The Genius Files, Book 1 by Dan Gutman Another great choice for younger readers on the go is this mystery adventure featuring kid detectives Coke and Pepsi McDonald!  These two siblings sure haven’t had your typical summer vacation, unless being chased across the country by your health teacher, dodging poison darts, thrown into a pit on top of some sand dunes, or near-drowning in a vat of liquified spam as “typical.”  Yes, you read that right!  The wacky hijinks of the McDonald Siblings is just the tip of the iceberg in The Genius Files series that we’re sure you will love as much as your kids do.

It’s finally here! The legendary Toyota Land Cruiser made its worldwide debut on August 1st with an all-new facelift and update for modern day living.  First introduced to the US market in 1958, Toyota’s longest-running nameplate has taken a three-year hiatus from the North American Market, but now it’s back and better than ever!  From the two-door 40 series with its fold-down front windshield, white roof, and rear jump seats to the fully loaded 200 series, the last generation to  be sold in the US, the Land Cruiser is back and better than ever to prove that strength and luxury are a match made in heaven. more Honoring the beloved models of its past, the all-new redesigned 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser continues form and stays true to its heritage as an exhilarating and durable off-roading vehicle. The new 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is built on the TNGA-F global truck platform, and this new ladder frame allows for more rigidity in the chassis, thanks to high-strength steel with blanking and laser welds.  The new LAnd Cruiser is also 4.4 inches narrower and 1.2 inches shorter, affording you even more off road prowess. The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser is also powered exclusively by the iFORCE MAX turbocharged 2.4-liter, four cylinder hybrid powertrain, with a whopping 326 horsepower and impressive 465 pound feet of torque! The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiserhas been given an exterior facelift as well as an interior one. This upgraded Land Cruiser will be available in three grades: Land Cruiser 1958, Land Cruiser, and the limited run Land Cruiser First Edition. An available premium package adds power heated and ventilated leather-trimmed seats with lumbar support, a 14-speaker JBL audio system, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, moonroof, and so much more. For the return to the US Market, the design team focused on four key terms to align the upgraded Land Cruiser’s form with its function: authentic, reliable, timeless, and professional.  The 1958 grade features the iconic round LED headlights and a TOYOTA branded heritage grille; the Land Cruiser grades upgrade the look to slim, rectangular headlights similar to the FJ62.  The squared body profile hearkens to Land Cruisers of yesteryear, and that A-pillar is pushed back for better outward visibility on the trails as well as aesthetics.  Available options for the interior also include heated seats, ventilated SofTex trimmed seats in two colorways, leather-trimmed seats in the First Edition models. The 2024 Land Cruiser will be offered in seven exterior color choices: Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Underground, Black, Meteor Shower, Trail Dust, and Heritage Blue. The two-tone Trail Dust and Heritage Blue exterior colors feature a Grayscape roof. And that’s not all!  This cruiser is jam packed with the latest and greatest in modern amenities and technology features. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 comes standard on all models, and an available 12.3 inch touch screen displays all the latest in Toyota Audio Multimedia System, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a Multi Terrain Monitor system, and an available 14-speaker JBL Premium sound system. It’s also available with 4G connectivity for up to 5 devices, turning your Land Cruiser into an AT&T Hotspot.  A standard Qi wireless charging pad allows for advanced power outputs, and dual USB-C charging ports are available in the front row and available for the rear passengers as well.  A Smart Key System with push-button start is standard on all grades; with an active Remote Connect trial or subscription, an available Digital Key can be shared with others remotely via compatible smartphones to allow shared vehicle access, tailgate access, and remote vehicle starting (4G network dependent) without handing over the physical keys. Stop by Classic Toyota of Waukegan to inquire more about these incredible vehicles, limited to only 5,000 vehicles in the US for and we’ll be happy to tell you all about it! In the meanwhile, let’s check out these amazing YouTube videos to learn more about the history of the Toyota Land Cruiser and what sets the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser apart from its predecessors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkyUKvHtJ-M

Summer is winding down to a close; the heat is tapering off and the days are getting shorter, but it doesn’t mean the fun is over.  Let’s all enjoy a last blast of summer making memories with the people we love the most, doing things we’ll talk about for years to come!  Today, we’re celebrating National Campfire day with a great list of Stargazing Road Trips to take in the midwest. Gather your best pals and your family and let's hit the road to fun, adventure, and exploration as we embark on some nighttime camping fun to appreciate the heavens. Check it out on today’s blog, and then let us know your picks for best stargazing spots in the area! more Best Stargazing Destinations for Dark Sky Viewing Middle Fork River Forest Preserve - Champaign County, Illinois This newly designated National Park takes home the gold when it comes to stargazing territory!  With three different Dark Sky Viewing Areas to choose from, you’ll have a blast with your loved ones at 3 varying levels of darkness for your comfort.  The Campground is considered a Level 1 location, with dark-sky approved lighting throughout the campgrounds.  Sugar Creek is a Level 2 Dark Sky area, with no lighting, a public restroom, and an open air shelter.  The North Waterfowl Area is a Level 3 Dark Sky area, featuring no restrooms or amenities, but a very dark area with prime sightlines for stargazing.  The Dark Sky programs are open to the public and take place in both the Activity Center and North Waterfowl areas, complete with presentations and informational segments for visitors to learn more about what they’ll be experiencing.  Keep in mind that camping is only available in designated areas, and you must obey camp rules about ambient lighting, flashlights, and pets as well. Palos Preserves in Willow Springs, Illinois This Urban Night Sky Place is the largest in the world!  It stretches across more than 6,600 acres, and emits around 1000x less light than downtown Chicago.  The Forest Preserve works very hard to protect the local nighttime environment, so please do your best to observe their overnight camping procedures and regulations about ambient lighting.  Some areas will be closed off during different seasons or have monthly limitations.  Other areas may close before sunset. Obey all posted signage for your safety and that of the environment.  J oin in on special events such as the August Moon Walk or the Dark Sky Walk for special guided tours run by the FPDCC! There’s even a Telescope Party at Swallow Cliff Woods-South in Cook County. White Rock Conservancy in Coon Rapids, Iowa This year round nature preserve may not be an officially designated Dark Sky Park, but it still offers phenomenal views of the night sky and constellations!  This 5,500 acre land trust has evolved from an oak tree savanna habitat into a special destination for stargazing. The park has a spectacular designated “Star Field” where visitors can camp to observe the best views of the night sky, free from artificial light and generators.  Cars are restricted at these campgrounds to preserve the darkest skies opportunity. Reservations are first-come, first-served, so book early! They also host an annual “Star Party” in partnership with the Ames Area Amateur Astronomers, where you can get some educational demonstrations and lectures about the importance of reducing light pollution and learn about observing the night sky. Headlands International Dark Sky Park in Mackinaw City, Michigan This incredible Dark Sky designated park offers some superior stargazing in its 550 acres of pristine woodlands and 2 miles of undeveloped swathes of Lake Michigan Shorelines!  This destination is so impressive that it received the official Dark Sky designation in 2011, one of the first 10 International Dark Sky Parks in the world!  You’ll spot the Orion constellation in March and April, and may catch a glimpse of it in May as it descends into the western skyline.  By the time summer is in full swing, the Milky Way is in full glory, spreading across the sky with gorgeous twinkling stars and impressive views.  You may even catch a meteor shower or two!  As Summer wanes and Autumn rolls around you’ll get to view the Persieds in August, the Draconids and Orionids in October, and the Leonids in November! You may even spot the Aurora if you’re lucky enough.