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Today we’re sharing our tips and tricks about the 68th Annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2023, and best places to watch it along with other fun ways to celebrate the occasion!  The Chicago St Paddy’s Day Parade is the largest one in the whole US, and we’re very proud of that fact.  We’ll be covering where to catch the parade, more information about VIP access, and recommendations for local Irish eateries afterwards. It’s all right here on today’s blog. more 2023’s Guest of Honor is CLLR Danny Collins, Mayor of Cork County Ireland, and the theme of the parade will be “Recognizing Workers Rights”.  The grand marshall of this year’s parade is Tim Drea, President of the Illinois AFL-CIO. Unions have long championed for living wages, quality healthcare, and retirement benefits for workers, among other things, and that’s why Business Manager James F. Coyne, The Parade Committee, and Plumbers Local 130 are all so proud to celebrate this year’s theme, which highlights the importance for workers to have those rights. The City of Chicago is also very proud to have a history supporting workers, and further honors the many essential workers who gave so much and put forth great effort to care for our communities during the pandemic; the city maintains its ongoing commitment to workers rights for well paid jobs, benefits, and safer workplaces. You can catch the parade on March 11th starting at 12:30, with a live broadcast on ABC 7 Chicago. It will also be live streamed on ABC7CHICAGO.com and the ABC 7 News App. If you’d like to catch the river dyeing, you’ll want to get a spot along the Michigan Avenue Bridge, between Columbus Drive and State Street before 10AM. And the best views are from Upper Wacker Drive between Columbus and Fairbanks. Public transportation to and from the parade is recommended due to the high volume of visitors and parade viewers. The parade will kick off at Grant Park before marching its way North on Columbus Drive between Balbo Drive and Monroe Drive, so make sure you arrive early to get a prime spot!  Entry to the parade route begins at 10AM and will only be allowed at Jackson Avenue and Ida B. Wells. The main Viewing Stand is located at the Buckingham Fountain, and this is where dancers and bands will pause to wave to attendees so it’s prime viewing.  Grandstand VIP Seating is $60/seat to be purchased in advance, and the grandstand will open at 11:30AM.  March 10th at 9AM is the last day to purchase tickets, and it closes at 9AM; no refunds will be given, and ticket + ID is required for entry. Security will be checking bags and personal items such as purses; note that coolers, alcohol of any kind, open beverages, and personal water bottles won’t be allowed. The Northside Irish Parade will be taking place on March 12th at 12PM starting between Northwest HWY and Raven.  Parade participants will arrive at 10AM, and the parade will kick-off at 12PM for bystanders and onlookers.  The Parade will also be hosting its official afterparty at Zia’s Social.  Check out their Facebook Page for more information. The South Side Irish Parade will be on March 12th starting at 12PM to 3PM, and will kick off at 103rd and Western Avenue, and march south to 115th and Western.  The parade is approximately two hours long, and full event details, including events before and after, can be viewed on their website. If you’re looking to continue the celebrations post parade and well into the next week, we recommend headin over to the following restaurants and bars on St Patrick’s Day the 17th for some official Irish meals and treats: Cork & Kerry in Chicago Charm’d in Chicago PB&J in Chicago The Gage in Chicago LG’s Bar & Kitchen in Chicago Chief O’Neill’s in Chicago Mrs. Murphy’s & Sons Irish Bistro in Chicago Emerald Loop Bar & Grill in Chicago The J. Parker in Chicago aliveONE in Chicago The Owl in Chicago Shamrock’n the Block in Chicago Central Park Bar in Chicago The Mill in Mundelein Peggy Kinnane’s Irish Restaurant & Pub in Arlington Heights McGonigal’s Pub in Barrington Timothy O’Toole’s Pub in Gurnee Pug Mahones Irish Pub & Grill in Fox Lake Celtic Knot Public House in Evanston Green Town Tavern in Waukegan The Harp And Fiddle in Park Ridge Island Tap in Libertyville Finn McCool’s Irish Sports Pub in Schaumburg May every petal of the shamrock bring you joy and good luck We hope you all have a happy, fun, and safe trip to the parade this year. Happy St. Patrick’s Day from all of us at Classic Auto Group!

This just in!  Toyota is in the top three of IIHS’s list of Top Safety Pick winners, awarded in the top 3 manufacturers when stacking up against the organization's tougher new safety standards! more IIHS determines their Top Safety Pick award winners through a series of rigorous testing for crashworthiness, and has changed their evaluations from 6 tests to 4 tests.  These vehicles must receive a rating of “good” in each of the three frontal tests, and either an “acceptable” or “good” rating for the updated side crash test.  This year, the crash testing process was performed with 82% more energy than previous years, and vehicles are required to earn a “good” rating to qualify for the Plus awards tier. Additionally, the vehicles are now evaluated for both nighttime and daytime vehicle-to-pedestrian front crash prevention tests; to earn a Top Safety Pick award vehicles must receive only a daytime rating of “Advanced” or “superior”.  For vehicles to achieve the Plus award tier of IIHS Top Safety Picks, they must receive “advanced or superior performance” in nighttime and daytime in that category. The nighttime vehicle-to-pedestrian evaluation was added as a new requirement due to increasing statistics that half of fatal US crashes and ¾ of fatal pedestrian crashes occur at night, hitting an all-time high in 2022.  2023’s headlights requirements are also stricter, with awards requiring a “standard acceptable” or “good” across all trim levels and packages for vehicle headlights. Tests such as roof strength, head restraining, and vehicle-to-behicle front crash prevention tests were removed from the awards criteria, as vehicles have received consistently high marks in coordination with tougher federal standards and regulations. In the small-sized cars category, the 2023 Toyota Corolla 4-door hatchback and 4-door sedan received Top Safety Pick awards. In the midsized cars category, the 2023 Toyota Camry 4-door sedan was awarded the Top Safety Pick+ tier on vehicles built after January 2023. In the small SUVs category, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Prime 4-door SUV and the 2023 Toyota Venza 4-door SUV received the Top Safety Pick award. In the midsized SUVs category, the 2023 Toyota Highlander 4-Door SUV was awarded the Top Safety Pick+ tier. In the minivans category, the 2023 Toyota Sienna Minivan received the Top Safety Pick+ tier. In the large pickups category, both the 2023 Toyota Tundra crew cab pickup and 2023 Toyota Tundra extended cab pickup received the Top Safety Pick+ awards tier. Learn more about the IIHS Safety Requirements here:

The iditarod Dog Sled race is an iconic winter event for Alaskans, and this year is the 51st anniversary of “The Last Great Race”!  This impressive dog sledding race is nearly 1,000 miles long, and takes one of two routes: The Northern Route is used on even numbered years, and the Southern Route is used in odd numbered years.  This year the competitors will travel 998 miles on the Southern route through Iditarod and along to the Yukon River communities Shageluk, Anvik, and Grayling and through to the town of Nome. more WANT TO WATCH THE IDITAROD LIVE AT HOME?  Check out this live stream of the events here on race day: https://iditarod.com/live/ Live Out Your Iditarod Dreams in Bayfield Wisconsin Have you always wanted to try mushing for yourself first hand? Well, today is your lucky day, because we have got the ultimate road trip adventure for you less than a day’s drive away! Head on up to Bayfield in Wisconsin and book an excursion with Wolf Song Adventures.  You can opt for a Morning Dog Sled Run  (3.5-4hr) or Afternoon Dog Sled Run (2.5hr) on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from December through February.  If youre visiting in March you can opt for a Late Season run (3hr) or Sunset run (3-3.5hr).  You’ll arrive before your session to meet your team of dogs, get a special handling lesson, learn how to harness and hook them up to the sled, and may even get to feed them!  Some packages even include a meal served on the trail.  It’s the closest thing to being in the Iditarod yourself. While you’re in Bayfield, we also recommend checking out the following activities to make the most of a weekend away or an extended stay!  Winter is considedred to be the area’s “Quiet Season”, but there’s stil plenty of fun to be had.  There’s snowmobiling just outside of town, snowshoeing on the local trails, cross country skiing across frozen Lake Superior, downhill skiing at Mt. Ashwabay, or you can visit the Frozen Sea Caves of Lake Superior for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For the anglers in your midst, you’ll love ice fishing on Lake Superior for some impressive trout, salmon, pike, smallmouth bass, panfish, perch, and walleye.  It’s a winter activity lover's paradise! The Bayfield Winter Festival is a must if you’re in the area, and this year the festival is running this weekend from March 3rd through March 5th!  You can try fat tire biking on candlelit trails, take a polar plunge into Lake Superior, and even watch the US Coast Guard practice their ice search and rescue technique.  There will be activities for all ages as well as delicious food and beverage, and of course bonfires! Looking for something unique to do in Bayfield?  Check out the Bayfield Ghost Walks, Howl Adventure Center, or shop the wonderful boutiques and winter gear stores in the downtown area. There are also plentiful options for fine dining and local eateries!  Just be sure to check the shop and restaurant winter hours schedule.

We’re back with another edition of our local Community Calendar of Events! Looking for something fun to do this weekend? We’ve got a great roundup of entertainment, workshops, events, and other activities to keep you busy through this weekend and all month long!  Whether you’re looking for family bonding fun, or a date night out, or something exciting to enjoy with friends, you’ll find it right here on our list.  And, as always, feel free to leave your own events in the comments below for our readers and followers to check out! more At Larsen Marine from 9AM to 1PM on Saturday, March 4th, come on out for the Annual Saturday Seminar Series! Each week, Larsens will host two free seminars on a variety of marine-related topics. March 4th from 6PM to 8PM at ZumBier, join the local Rotary Club of Waukegan for a fun evening of fundraising with a silent auction to help local charities. Looking forward to a night out at the theatre? You’re in luck!  The Three Brothers Theatre is hosting “Desdemona, A play about a handkerchief” starting at 7:30PM on March 4th and March 5th! On March 5th, enjoy an evening of world class music at the Orlin Trapp Auditorium with the Waukegan Symphony Orchestra Spring Concert. On March 5th, Lake County’s Stan Dard Jazz Project is playing an evening of classic American Jazz standards from 6PM at Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewing (the show is free to attend, but feel free to tip the band at the end of the series!) Stop on over to Bertrands Bowling Lanes on Monday March 6th at 6PM til 8PM for an evening of Bingo. On March 7th, grab your latest yarn or fiber craft and head on over to Nighttshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewing for a local Yarn and Knitting group! Whether you crochet, weave, hook rugs, cross-stitch or embroiderer, all fiber artist enthusiasts and experience levels are welcome here. Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewing is hosting a fantastic night of trivia with drag queen Lola Madison and her friends and prizes go to the winning team! So put your thinking caps on and head on over a t 7PM on March 8th for Drag Queen Trivia Night. The Greenbelt Cultural Center is hosting an incredible outdoor experience for kids on Thursday MArch 9th starting at 10:00AM. From hiking to exploring and connecting with nature, your kids will be having so much fun they won’t even realize it’s an educational excursion! Ballet Folklorico Tayahua: A Night in Mexico will be showing on March 11th at 6PM in Genessee Theatre which celebrates the diversity of Mexican Culture and history, and shares it with the new generation! Grab the whole family and all of your friends and head on over to the Belvidere Cinema Gallery for a free showing of Oliver & Company starting at 4PM on March 18th. ArtWauk is back on Saturday, March 18th from 5PM to 9PM in the Arts and Entertainment district of Waukegan. Dandelion Gallery & Studio is hosting Yoga and Sound Meditation starting on Saturday March 25th at 10:30AM and inclues 45 minutes of beginner yoga with 15 minutes of sound meditation all faciulitated by Calvin Piktail. LCCCA is presenting the Illumine Trio at the Orlin Trapp Auditorium from 3PM to 5:30PM on Sunday March 26th. The Three Brothers Theatre is hosting Masters of Sketch: Spring SKetch Extravaganza from 7:30 to 9PM at Stage 115 for an evening of adult centric comedy.

March 2nd is Read Across America Day!  What could be more wonderful than celebrating the popculture and history of road trips, travel in the US, and the intersection of automotive history?  Today, we’ve rounded up some great reads from nonfiction to adult fiction to family and children’s literature that all feature cars, motorsports, travel, and more. more We hope that you’ll find something on this list that inspires you to take your own adventure, or at the very least transports you away from the hustle and bustle of daily living to find respite and peace in between the pages.  We’ve even got some great highlights about women and cars to celebrate Womens History Month, too! Have a book we’ve left off the list? Let us know in the comment section below! Power Under Her Foot: Women Enthusiasts of American Muscle Cars Written by Chris Lezotte This nonfiction book chronicles the history of American Muscle cars and their departure from a mostly masculine pursuit, to the emergence of more women collectors and enthusiasts. After consulting 88 women in automotive circles, this book highlights their passion, enthusiasm, and interesting American Muscle and challenges the gender norms of the hobby. Ladies Start Your Engines: Women Writers on Cars adn the Road Edited by Elinor Nauen A collection of fiction, poetry, essays and anecdotes from some of the 21st century’s top voices in literature, featuring Gertude Stein, Meg Swenson, Jan Kerouac, and more. Women At the Wheel: A Century of Buying, Driving and Fixing Cars Written by Katherine J. Parkin This nonfiction book chronicles the social dynamics and implications into the stereotype of cars as a symbol of masculinity and women as “disinterested”, and the relationship between the auto industry, collectors, mechanics, and changing dynamics. You’ll learn about gender stereotypes as relates to early driver’s education, buying and driving and selling cars, vehicle maintenance, and so much more. It’s a fascinating look at the contrast between men and women and their vehicles across the centuries. Fast Cars and Bad Girls: Nomadic Subjects and Women’s Road Stories Written by Debora Paes de Barros An in depth and fascinating analysis of the relationship between nomadic road trip and travel narratives across multiple literary disciplines.  It explores the contrasts between narratives of male and female writers, and the way women experience the world around them, mother-daughter relationships, angst, and feminist concepts to exlplore travel writing by women in America. Fast Women: The Legendary Ladies of Racing Written by Todd McCarthy This nonfiction book chronicles the exceptional women who broke barriers and challenged the status quo in the sport of car racing.  These women broke into the sport and made waves through their progress and staying power during the heyday of motorsports in the 1950s. Women Talking About Cars: Series 1-3 Audiobooks by Audible Victoria Coren Mitchell explores the fascinating lives and jorueys of women and their cars. Lost Children Archive: A Novel Written by Valeria Luiselli An artist couple sets out on a road trip from NY to AZ with their two children in an emotional, inventive, and heartwarming story about exploring family, crisis, the intimacies of marriage, parenthood and childhood.  With a genuine sense of humor, compassion, and thoughtfulness, this book will capture your heart and mind. The Wangs Vs. The World Written by Jade Chang After losing everything in a financial crisis, Charles Wang uproots his children from their home and school in Bel Air and they embark on a cross-country journey along with his wife, Barbra, as the family heads to the home of the eldest Wang daughter, Saina. This sweet, charming, and emotional family journey will capture the hearts of anyone who reads it. Cars Cars Cars by Kimi Weart Featuring cars from the collection of Museum of Modern Art, this beautiful picture book is a tie-in to the MoMA’s “Automania” exhibit about cars and car culture.  Follow along with Rosario Abigail Bergen Delgado as she explores the things she loves about cars, and takes a look at 10 different vehicles from the MoMA collection in New York and the adventures she has! Duck Duck, Moose by Dave Horowitz Best pals Duck, Other Duck, and Moose embark on a quest to go south for the winter and explore the joys of discovering something new, experiencing new places, and how those experiences can help you grow, change, and see things differently.

It’s National Minnesota Day, so we thought we’d explore some great destinations across Minnesota that are worthy of a road trip!  On today’s blog you’ll find fun facts about Minnesota, as well as plenty of places to explore both indoors and outdoors in this incredible state. more We love making these little travel blogs for you, so please let us know if there are any suggestions for future destinations.  We’ll keep them in mind for future road trip itineraries.  Just pop into the comments and chime in with your suggestions. First, some fast facts about Minnesota so you can impress your friends and family in the car on the way to your destination: The capital city of Minnesota is St. Paul Minnesota became the 32nd state in the nation in 1858 It is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, and boasts hte highest number of lakes in any state in the US. Minnesota is the self-proclaimed State of Hockey!  The exhilarating sport is a defining element of local culture, and a Minnesota Wilds game is a must-see if you’re traveling here during hockey season! Honeycrisp apples are native grown apples, and are also the state’s official fruit. Actress and singer Judy Garland was from Minnesota, and so was Bob Dylan! Now let’s get to planning our exciting vacation to Minnesota! For the outdoorsy: If you love to get up close and personal with nature and explore your surroundings with rustic, rugged, and untouched wilderness, then we’ve got just the right place for you!  And as an added bonus, we’re also throwing in a few historical sites too. Voyageurs National Park is an absolutely stunning must-see destination on your travel itinerary.  Located close to the Canadian border, this incredibly lush national park is surrounded by sparkling, crystal clear waters of Lake Kabetogama and Rainy Lake. You’ll find miles and miles of pristine shorelines, uninhabited islands, and gorgeous wildlife.  The park has more than 50 nature and hiking trails, which give you an up close and personal experience with the lush wildlife! Keep your eyes peeled and you may even spot an Eastern Timber Wolf, along with bald eagles, moose, otters, and so much more. Pipestone National Monument is another wonderful outdoor landmark to explore.  It marks the site of local quarries where Native Americans lived, worked, and crafted ceremonial pipes and other cultural artifacts and crafts.  You’ll have a chance to explore the red pipestone and its connection to Native culture as well as natural prairie landscapes.  The city of Pipestone itself is known for its beautiful architecture Siqoux Quartzite.  It’s a sight to behold! It’s located in southwestern Minnesota along US Route 75, Highway 23, and MN State Highway 30. The North Shore Scenic Drive is a great little single day roadtrip-within-a-roadtrip!  With a drive of just over 140 miles, you’ll get an outstanding coastal view of Lake Superior and magnificent views of the Sawtooth Mountains and lighthouses.  We recommend starting in Duluth and heading up north to Grand Portage. You’ll have plenty of time to wander through the local eateries and shops in the small towns as you wind through. It’s a serene, picturesque getaway that makes a great break from the hustle and bustle of hiking and city exploration. Itasca State Park has impressive old-growth forests, crystal-clear trickling streams and rivers, expansive sparkling lakes, and plenty of opportunities to explore!  You can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, birdwatching, watersports, and even visit the Mary Gibbs Mississippi Headwaters Center for some educational exhibits and fun facts.  This is a nature-lovers paradise, and rife with locations that would make a Nature Photographer squeal with delight! For the cityslickers: If you’re looking for great cities and towns to explore and get to know the people across Minnesota with plenty of places to shop and eat, we’ve got some spots for you to explore! St. Paul is the state capital and there’s so much to see and do here!  First, there’s the world’s largest hockey mural, a 300ft by 50ft installation on top of Downtown’s Treasure Island Center.  You’ll love the historic buildings such as the Cathedral of St Paul, The Alexander Ramsay House, the Minnesota State Capitol building, and so many beautiful historic homes.  Travelers of all ages will have a blast learning and exploring at The Minnesota Transportation Museum, The Science Museum of Minnesota, The Minnesota History Center, and other incredible galleries and museums!  You’ll have a blast here. Duluth is considered one of the most scenic cities in the Midwest!  You’ll find lots of gorgeous lakefront views throught this port city, and lots of hotspots for fine dining, shopping, family friendly activities like the aquarium, a lighthouse pier, walking paths, and so much more. It’s the perfect place for families as well as visitors with a desire to take in the nightlightlife!  You’ll love the historic downtown areas and walking path along the lakeshore. The beautiful suburb of Eden Prairie is a fabulous place to visit with a real mix of things to do.  You’ll enjoy a walkable, public-transport accessible city with lots of dining options and shopping.  It’s a quieter retreat away from the busyness of Minneapolis, with a few outdoor activities and nature trails as well.  It’s a great suburban retreat. Rochester is the state’s third largest city, and is home to the world famous Mayo Clinic.  The city is always flowing with travelers in part due to people travling in for specialized treatments, tests, and exams.  As a result, the downtown has a bustling energy with lots of hotels, local theatres, entertainment, local nature parks, and incredible restaurants.  You’ll find no shortage of fun and excitement here!  You can even enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, skiing, and hunting on the outskirts of town.

We’ve shared some exciting news from our manufacturers, some fun facts and trivia, and of course a plethora of interesting ideas for road trips, family fun, and local activities. Today, however, we thought we’d share something a little personal that shows just how much we love all things automotive! more Do you know about the person who created the first autonomous vehicle? How about the man who opened America’s first car dealership that started it all? We’re betting that there’s something really cool, interesting, and memorable that you can learn from this list! Impress your friends and family at your next visit with these automotive triumphs and trailblazers. Check it out and enjoy! Curious about the first cars ever sold? Well over in Europe, in 1886, Karl Benz registered the first “horseless carriage” aka The Motorwagen, and sold 25 Benz cars! The first commercial car sales were via American inventors Charl and Frank Duryea in 1893, but these were gas-powered carriages and later  3-wheeled and 4-wheeled armed and armored vehicles. William E. Metzgar opened the nation’s first independent car dealership in Detroit in the grand year of 1897, but that’s not all he’s done!  He also organized the first Auto Show in 1899, and though attendance and car options were sparse, this inaugural show birthed a whole new generation of automotive enthusiasts! In 1889, Peugeot produced their first car following Germany’s Benz to become the world’s second-oldest car manufacturer.  In 1899, Renault followed suit. By 1903, France was leading the way as the world's most prolific automaker by cornering an impressive 49% of the global market and producing more than 30,000 vehicles! In 1908, Henry Ford debuted the first production Model T Ford in Detroit, and a whopping 15 million Model T vehicles were manufactured from that fateful day through 1927!  This prolific manufacturing was also thanks to Ford Motor Company’s creation of the first moving assembly line in 1913. Previously, car bodies were made of wood, but that all changed in 1914, when Dodge made waves in the industry by producing their first vehicle that featured a body which was entirely constructed of steel! In 1939, during the World’s Fair, General Motors and Norman Bel Geddes created the first “self- driving” car model.  Now, it wasn’t quite what you expect from a self-driving, autonomous car, but it certainly was impressive.  It was guided by radio-controlled electromagnetic fields, and reacted and operated through special metal spikes located inside the road.  In 1995, that impressive car’s successor the Navlab5, more closely related to the cars we see and drive today, was produced by the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon, and it was the 5th model out of 10 vehicles which were retrofitted with new technology. That very same year, 1939, General Motors debuted their “Hydra-Matic” device, an automatic transmission invented by Earl Thompson which allowed vehicle gears to shift automatically during driving.  It was one of the greatest innovations in the world of automotive inventions! The modern day electronic fuel injection system debuted in 1966, and it vastly improved engine efficiency, fuel economy, and lowered emissions by removing the need for a carburetor. Nowadays you can find safety airbags in just about every nook and cranny of your vehicle, but did you know they weren’t in vehicles until the 1970s? GM introduced the Air Cushion Restraint System, and by 1974 other manufacturers had jumped on board and added these feature options to their lineup.  It wasn’t a legal requirement to include in cars until 1991, but by then the technology had vastly improved and greatly increased drivera nd passenger safety. Did we leave off a fun fact from our list? Let us know in the comments! We’d love to feature your suggestions in an upcoming social media post or blog.

If you’re not interested in taking a road trip or perhaps not into the Great Outdoors, don’t worry! We’ve got a great guide to some wonderful places you can check out for a day trip or weekend away. And best of all, they’re mostly places that are indoors, where it’s warm and cozy!  Check out today’s post of amazing Museums and venues to explore in Illinois and Wisconsin. more First up, let’s take a look at some Must See art exhibits that are running or will be ope in the next few months!  These exciting events are limited term traveling art installations or special exhibitions curated for the spaces that host them.  So be sure to cehck your calendar and squeeze them in before it’s too late! The Chicago Cultural Center is hosting “Nelly Agassi: No Limestone, No Marble.” It’s a one-of-a-kind exhibit closing on February 26th, so get there and see this Israeli-Born Chicago-based artist’s unique presentation before it’s gone for good! The Art Institute of Chicago has an impressive showcase collection featuring 25 paintings, drawings, and personal objects from Spanish surrealist painter Salvador Dali, on display starting February 18th, and running through June 12th of this year. The Chinese American Museum of Chicago has just opened their latest exhibit chronicling the history of Chinese cuisine in the US, and exploring how food helps illustrate the immigrant experience, and connects people to different cultures.  You’ll also learn about some of the local eateries in the city’s own historic Chinatown district. Opening on February 23rd and running through 4th of June, the Smart Museum of art at University of Chicago is hosting “Not All Realisms”, a photography and memorabilia exhibition chronicling Africa and the 1960s. The Pencillarium and Artworks Gallery in Kenosha, Wisconsin, has a wonderful rotating gallery of local and regional artists who create works on different themes. The current installation as of January 2023 is “The 1”x1” Art Challenge, where creators were inspired to create a work of art sized just about the dimensions of a postal stamp.  Come and check it out for a unique experience. Downtown Rhinelander, Wisconsin is home to Art Start, home of rotating events, workshops, and gallery shows by local and regional artists. F rom Febraury 9th through the 25th, the current artwork on display is from local school-aged artists grades K-12 from the Rhinelander School district as well as the Rhinelander Woman’s Club Student Writing Contest submissions. Starting in May, the Morton Arboretum is hosting a spectacular exhibit from Polish-American artist Olga Ziemska, who has created many sculptures and works from reclaimed tree branches and other items gathered from the grounds of the arboretum. The event will open on May 26th 2023 and be ongoing through 2025. The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is hosting the Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition, which will be on display now through April 23rd!  The exhibit features plentiful styles and media choices, and artists on display include teens aged 14-17 in addition to adults. Pompeii: The Exhibition opens on February 23rd at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago, and runs through September 4th Planning ahead for late spring and beyond? Here are some additional fun and interesting events as well as more upcoming exhibits and installations in Chicago! Not interested in any event in particular, but are more looking to roam and peruse at your leisure? No problem! Here’s some fascinating activities and unique museums and places to explore that have ongoing interest and permanent collections. The Milwaukee Art Museum in Milwaukee The Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee The Civil War Museum in Kenosha Rick Wilcox Magic Theatre Milwaukee Public Market Mitchell Park Horticultura Conservatory (Thel Domes) National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago The Midevil Torture Museum in Chicago The Museum of Illusions in Chicago The Color Factory Chicago Busy Beaver Button Museum in Chicago Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art in Chicago The International Museum of Surgical Science in Chicago Klairmont Kollections car museum in Chicago The Volo Museum (Transportation) The Wonderworks Children’s Museum Chicago

Today we are continuing our Black Histroy Month Celebrations by shining the spotlight on some notable names in the racing industry!  From pioneers and trailblazers to household names, these folks have paved the way for inclusion and diversity in professional racing, and inspired new generations to find a love of motorspots and follow in their footsteps! more Wendell Scott Wendell Scott first found his love for cars by working alongside his father as an auto mechanic.  Upon returning home from serving in WWII, he opened his own mechanic shop.  At the time the NASCAR circuit was still segregated, Scott raced in the Dixie Circuit in the meanwhile; after some convincing, he managed to secure a NASCAR steward’s approval for a license, and he became the first African American NASCAR licensee.  Scott went on to win the Jacksonville 200, and became the first African American driver to win a Nascar race!  He went on to compete in 495 Grand National races, and was inducted to the NASCAR Hall of fame in 2015 in honour of his groundbreaking accomplishments. He was the first and only Black Driver to win (what is now called) The Spring Cup Series. Cheryl Linn Glass Cheryl Linn Glass was the first ever African American woman professional race-car driver in the US!  At the young age of 9, she fell in love with racing quarter-midget cars, and later  became a professional driver at age 18, and continued her storied career through 1991.  Glass was not only a great race driver, but she was also an entrepreneur.  She had a career off the track in designing clothing, modeling, charity work, and educational outreach. Hayden Swank Hayden fell in love with racing at the age of 7, racing quarter midget cars first and later racking up more than 20 wins in the professional race circuit.  Hayden is not only a professional competitor on the track with his eyes on the prize for a spot in NASCAR’s Cup Series, but he’s also enrolled as a student at the University of Georgia.  He’s managed to balance his racing career, sponsorships, and a double-major in advertising and marketing.  He hopes to become the second Black full-time driver in the NASCAR Circuit. Bubba Wallace William Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr is the first full-time competitor of color in the NASCAR Cup Series, inspiring new generations of racing fans to follow in his footsteps. Bubb, like he did following Wendell Scott.  Wallace is a professional stock car driver who made his Cup Series Debut in 2017.  He is the first full-time racer of color in the NASCAR Cup Series since the early 1970s.  In 2021, he became the second Black Driver to win the NASCAR Cup Series at Talladega Superspeedway. Tia Norfleet Shauntia Latrice “Tia” Norfleet is the daughter of NASCAR driver Bobby Norfleet, and she decided to follow his path at age 14, competing in the drag-race and short track circuits. She was the first and only African American Woman driver to hold a NASCAR license, as well as the first Black Woman to be licensed by the Automobile Racing Club of America.  She made her professional racing debut in August of 2012 at the Motor Mile Speedway in Virginia. She and her father started initiatives to share their love of motorsports with children of all ethnicities and backgrounds, but especially underserved communities.  Tia also started the “Driven to Read” literacy program! Stars of the Pit Crew In 2004, NASCAR started the NASCAR Diversity Pit Crew Internship Program, to provide additional opportunities to explore careers on the esteemed Pit Crew teams. Some of the stars and notable names in NASCAR’s Pit Crew roster include Brehanna Daniels, Raynard Revels II, Dion “Rocko” Williams, Phil Horton, Earnest Holden, and Lamar Neal. Check out this incredible video from I AM ATHLETE on YouTube and learn what it’s like to work in the Pit Crew, and what it takes to make it as a pro:

It’s World Radio Day! Today, we’re going to highlight some great picks for aftermarket upgrades to your car’s stereo/radio and infotainment system.  Perhaps you were being budget conscious when you purchased your new car, or maybe youre looking for an updated system for your pre-owned or older model car.  Here’s some great pointers for selecting a radio and stereo system that are right for you and your car. more Sound Quality For those of us who spend a lot of time on the road, music and podcasts can really keep us focused as well as entertained on long drives.  Upgrading your car’s speakers from factory ones can really boost your listening experience.  If your vehicle doesn’t already have a subwoofer, you can add one now for richer, fuller sound.  The choice of radio head unit does have an impact on sound quality and output, so make sure to do your research on which models will have the style of sound you prefer.  You can also use the equalizer settings to further fine tune the sound for your tastes.  Look for options that offer a wide array of customizable settings and multi-channel amplifiers to create fuller sound. Functionality Consider how you’ll be connecting your devices to your car’s infotainment/audio system.  You will want to select an option that fits your streaming/listening style. Current features include: direct streaming of Pandora or Spotify, native SiriusXM radio options, digital playback via thumb drive/USB, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, or physical Aux connection.  If you’re still using physical media such as CDs, you will need to make sure the Head Unit can support this as they do not often come standard in vehicles anymore. Make/Model of Vehicle Before making a purchase, you’ll want to check that the system will fit in your vehicle.  There may be additional installation kits, adapters, or other accessories required to fit the make/model of your car.  Additionally, some systems may need to be professionally installed if you’re looking to add a screen or other accessories. Features and Controls You’ll want to make a list of must-have features, and negotiable ones. Some systems can be controlled by Bluetooth, some by voice commands, and others by touch screen or buttons and dials.  Some receivers have built-in features such as GPS Navigation, HD Radio Tuners, etc. Additionally, some may offer customizable lighting configurations for ambient and mood lighting, or cycling through colors to add some fun to your listening experience. Style Today, a car’s interior is as much a reflection of your personality as its exterior!  You can select a head unit, stereo, and system from aftermarket brands that match your aesthetic and interests. From classic reproductions and retro styled units to modern, sleek appearances to custom colors and lighting, there’s so many options to choose from! Installation Some systems may be able to be swapped out by the average automotive aficionado, but others may require more in-depth customization and need a professional installer.  Make sure you shop around and do some research on installation options and procedures so your Radio and speaker system is properly installed to prevent damage to your vehicle Price Points and Brands There is a wide array of options for every budget and price point, so once you’ve decided on finances you can narrow down your search for brand names.  Common brands include Alpine, Pioneer, Clarion, Kenwood, RetroSound, JVC, and Sony just to name a few. Here are some helpful videos from YouTubers which can help familiarize you with brand names, price points, and other factors:

It’s National Inventor Day!  And since of course it’s also Black History Month, we thought it would be a wonderful opportunity to highlight and celebrate the incredible Black Inventors of the automotive industry!  Here are some fun facts about the technology and vehicles we use everyday that you may not have known! more Did you know that Charles Richard Patterson aka CR Patterson owned and operated the first African American founded car company? That’s right!  Born into slavery, he eventually made his way to Ohio and trained as a blacksmith.  Later, he partnered with JP Lowe and created a carriage building business, and in the 1900s he became sole proprietor of CR Patterson and Sons, manufacturing 28 different models, including the Patterson-Greenfield Automobile. Did you know that the traffic light was invented by Garrett Augustus Morgan?  After noticing that manually operated traffic lights were inefficient and prone to human error, he decided to take matters into his own hands.  After noticing the abrupt change from STOP to GO was causing an issue, he decided to add a warning light between the two signals to allow drivers time to slow up.  We know this as the yellow “slow down” signal on modern day traffic lights! He patented a T-shaped metal pole with 3 light settings, and sold the rights to GE for $40,000. Richard B Spikes was responsible for inventing not one but two wonderful features of vehicles we use every day!  First, he created the directional signal on vehicles while working for Pierce Arrow in 1913.  Later, in 1932, he patented an updated gear shift transmission, on which today’s automatic transmissions are modeled, and he received an unprecedented $100,000 for the invention! Learn even more from this wonderful video:

Today is National Pizza Day! There’s nothing like staying in for the night with a good movie, and getting a saucy, melty-cheesy delicious pizza delivered to your door. And make sure you thank your delivery person a little extra today, for carrying your beloved dinner from the restaurant to your front door safely in their car, because it takes a precise driver to get your pizza there in one piece without all the cheese and sauce sloshed to one side! more Impress your friends at pizza night while you chow down on these fun facts about Chicago Deep Dish Pizza between bites. The word Pizza comes from the italian “Pinsere” which means to pound or stamp, which is fitting since you roll our pound out the pizza dough flat! Pizza originated in the 16th Century in Naples Pizza was so popular, in fact, that Queen Maria Carolina d’Asburgo Lorena, wife of King Ferdinando IV, had a pizza oven installed in their summer residence. The Deep Dish Pizza we know and love today was created in 1943, when pals Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo crafted the first Italian-American version of pizza at their restaurant, Pizzeria Uno in Chicago. The average adult in the US will eat about 6,000 slices of pizza in their lifetime. Americans eat about 350 slices of pizza per second The United States eats more than three billion pizzas annually, with an average of 8 million pizzas being ordered every day. Looking for top rated official Chicago Deep Dish pies? These establishments are famed for their renditions of the deep dish, but we think you should try them all for yourself to see who rates as the best of the best!  It would make a delicious road trip with your friends, too. Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria in Chicago Pequod’s Pizza Gino’s East in Chicago Pizzeria Ora Chicago George’s Deep Dish My Pi Pizza in Chicago Nancy’s Pizza in Chicago Bartoli’s Pizza in Chicago Pizzeria Uno in Chicago Bacino’s of Lincoln Park in Chicago Need more road-trip stop offs? Check out these suggestions below: Check out this review of some delicious Lou Malnati pizzas by Timmy’s Takeout on YouTube: If you’re looking for a DIY Deep Dish Pizza tour, you can follow along with Luis Gusto as he explores some of the best pizzas the city has to offer: Wondering how different styles of pizza stack up against each other?  The gang at TRUFF Kitchen went on a Pizza Crawl throughout Chicago to find the best of the best.  Check it out here: ​​