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September 30th is International Podcast Day, a global celebration of one of the most popular media forms around the world today.  Founded in 2014, this “holiday” was created to celebrate the incredible power of podcasts as informational and entertainment media. Podcasts have truly changed the way people consume and receive media, giving listeners and viewers an opportunity to engage in topics they love most with this innovative, streamable “radio show” style media.  Once an obscure, strange new form of media, this beloved streaming audio and talk-show format has now become as ubiquitous as gas stations and coffee shops! Today we’re sharing some of our picks for best automotive related podcasts, and we’ve included links to their companion YouTube channels or visual components for a more enhanced experience. more What are your favorite automotive podcasts? Let us know in the comments and we may feature your suggestions in a future update! The Collecting Cars Podcast with Chris Harris and Edward Lovett is an excellent show dedicated to “motoring horror stories” and tall tales from the community. It is an extension of the Collecting Cars YouTube channel, dedicated to highlighting the adventures (and misadventures) of automotive enthusiasts and collectors. Everyday Driver Car Debate with Paul and Todd is an informative and entertaining podcast dedicated to helping listeners find their perfect daily driver.  The hosts debate which car is the right fit, give a little behind the scenes access on their review channels, and other hot topics in the automotive industry.  They also discuss the highs and lows of car shopping, car ownership, and car collecting. The Smoking Tire with Matt Farah and Zack Klapman features a rotating cast of weekly guests from all corners of the automotive industry.  From professional drivers to avid collectors and automotive icons, there’s no shortage of excitement and entertainment here. With experience as an automotive journalist, Farah’s channel is a unique spin on the typical car chatter, covering topics from daily drivers to sports cars to supercars and beyond.  It’s a very thoughtful channel and companion podcast with no shortage of entertainment! The Best of NPR’s Car Talk is one of America’s funniest podcasts, featuring Tom and Ray Magliozzi, also known as “Click and Clack, the car guys,” as they attempt to troubleshoot, diagnose, and otherwise lovingly hassle their listeners from live call-ins to their radio broadcast.  Their charming wit, goofy antics, and friendly demeanor has made them an accessible show for listeners of all age levels and experiences.  Their witty banter, wild sense of humor, and charming conversation with listeners makes for an unforgettable and timeless podcast that is at once hilarious and informative!  You’ll find yourself listening to your favorites again and again, and even learning a thing or two along the way. Past Gas by Donut Media continues the channel’s quirky, offbeat sense of humor and enthusiasm for all things automotive. Join these goofy gearheads as they take a deep dive into the stories behind your favorite car manufacturers, car collectors, and automotive superstars.  In true Donut Media Fashion, they present information and factual anecdotes with expert comedic timing, plenty of laughs, and an overall jovial atmosphere.  It’s a wonderful lighthearted look at some of the wildlest, weirdest, and most interesting aspects of the car industry. The TrailChasers Podcast is a weekly unscripted podcast providing fun and informative content for those looking for a little offroad adventuring.  Created as a tie-in to the “OFFROADERLANDER” community the producers and cohosts deliver the perfect blend of informational content, anecdotes and first-hand stories, and community input from offroad adventures.  Their aim is to connect drivers and adventure enthusiasts to accessible offroading equipment and inspire a wondrous sense of adventure in their listeners! Hooniverse Podcast exists at the intersection of all things automotive: cars, trucks, race tracks, road trips, things that run, things that don’t, and everything in between!  Helmed by Jeff Glucker, also known for his work with Autotrader and Motor Trend, this podcast serves as an outlet for a love of the more offbeat side of the automotive industry. Driving While Awesome is a weekly podcast hosted by automotive experts and three of the RADwood Co-founders: Lane Skelton, Warren Madsen, and Art Cervantes.  Tune in to listen to these long-time friends discuss the ins and outs of gearhead life and the automotive industry, but especially sports cars and vintage rides from the 80s and 90s.  With more than 700 episodes and counting, you’ll never run out of things to listen to on your daily commute or next road trip! Car Pro Podcast is your go-to source for just about everything and anything automotive.  From buying to selling to leasing to maintaining and collecting cars, this show covers it all!  Hosts Jerry and Kevin provide listeners with an insightful look at the industry by providing insider information on how to buy your car, secure the best deals, prices on the new/used car market, and much more.  Not sure whether to buy gas or electric?  Contemplating used versus new versus leased? They’ve got you covered on their detailed shows live every Saturday on WBAP or wherever your fave podcasts are streaming. Behind the Glass Podcast with Sam from SeenThroughGlass on Youtube.  The show aims to provide listeners with a behind the scenes look at the car industry and world of automotive YouTubers!  Each episode features a new and exciting guest from the car vlogging and/or automotive social media sector.

Just like your car requires gasoline or electrical charging to go, go go, so do humans!  Many of us get a little extra pep in our step thanks to our bff, coffee.  Since today is National Coffee day, we’re celebrating with some fun facts about nature’s magical bean brew, and we’ve gathered up some suggestions for best coffeeshops in our area and across Illinois. Check it out! more Five Fun Facts about Coffee: Did you know that Americans drink about 400 million cups of coffee every day? That’s right, and in a year’s time we consume about 146 billion cups of coffee here in the US. In 2022, Finland is leading the charge as the world’s biggest consumer of coffee per capita, drinking an average of 4 cups a day!  In fact, the country even legally mandates  that workers be allowed two 10-minute breaks for coffee on shift. The United States has the largest coffee market globally, reaching more than 80 billion USD in revenue; second in line is Brazil, followed by Japan and then Canada. The Number 1 coffee brand in the world is Starbucks. The company reported annual revenue of $23.52 billion, and has over 33,000 stores in 80 countries. There is even a Starbucks on site at the CIA headquarters (where they don’t allow any names on cups, for obvious reasons.) The average 12oz cup of coffee contains somewhere between 90 to 150 beans per cup. Where to get the best brews in Illinois (in alphabetical order, because we aren’t playing favorites; we love them all!): AREA Coffee in Mundelein Bean Counter in Springfield Brewpoint Coffee in Elmhurst Common Grounds Coffee in Carbondale Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters in Libertyville Custom Cup Coffee in Springfield Daisy’s Artish Cafe in Lake Villa Dark Matter Coffee in Chicago Flipside Coffee and Espresso Bar in Rock Falls Gaslight Coffee Roasters in Chicago He Brews coffee shop in Jonesboro Honey Hill Coffee Shop in Wauconda Little Bean Coffee Company in Antioch Mad Goat Coffee in Danville Maeva’s Coffee in Alton Metric Coffee in Chicago Milkcow Cafe in Vernon Hills Oromo Cafe in Chicago Pilot Pete’s Coffee in Elmhurst Prairie Espresso + Wine Bar in Lake Bluff Sawada Coffee Co in Chicago Something's Brewing Downtown in Grayslake Stompin Grounds Cafe in Lake Zurich Strange Brew Cafe in Palos Hills The Wormhole Coffee in Chicago Thirty Thirty Coffee in Peoria Three Twigs Bakery in Springfield

It’s no secret that we here at Classic love to get involved in our community and meet new people!  That’s why for World Tourism Day, we’re sharing some of the wonderful places newcomers and visitors can explore when visiting our area. We want you to get to know our towns and cities as well as we do, and enjoy all of the things that make it so great to live here!  Let’s show the world all of the incredible things that the Lake County Illinois and surrounding area have to offer. Feel free to chime in with your picks in the comments on our social media, too. We’d love your input and feedback! more Genesee Theatre in Waukegan hosts year round events, concerts, shows, and live music.  It’s one of the best venues in town! Waukegan Municipal Beach is a 400-acre lakefront with a mile-long stretch of beach. It’s open 6AM to 9PM all 7 days a week, and s free to the public on a daily basis from Labor Day to Memorial Day, making it a great budget friendly option to visit in the off-season and enjoy some time in nature. ZumBier Bier Halle in Waukegan is a great way to spend a few hours and support a local small business!  Schedule a tour, visit the taproom, or take advantage of their wide array of products for sale or buy and fill a growler to take home and share with friends. Waukegan Harbor Lighthouse is located at the end of “Government Pier” on Lake Michigan. It’s a great destination for photographers and tourists! Lyons Wood Forest Preserve is a gorgeous 272 acre park with prairie and forest areas that’s just perfect for hiking, cycling, trail running, and wildlife viewing. Three Brothers Theatre is a local non-profit independent venue that offers an intimate theatre going experience.  It thrives on diverse and inclusive programming that’s “brash, brave, and bare”, producing shows that are driven by the artist and creator, providing audiences with a truly unforgettable experience! The Anderson Japanese Gardens are 12-acres of meticulously manicured Japanese garden grounds in Rockford Illinois featuring peaceful Koi Ponds, winding paths and scenic bridges, trickling streams, cascading waterfalls, and award winning botanicals. The Kenosha North Pier Lighthouse in nearby Kenosha, WI is not just a gorgeous coastal lighthouse open for tours, but it is also home to the Kenosha Lighthouse Studio, an incredible community of artists and art enthusiasts. Geneva Lake Museum in Lake Geneva, WI is a one-of-a-kind local history museum filled with an indoor replica of a historic town, local relics, and interactive exhibits inside a historic waterworks building!  It’s a great destination for tourists to spend the day and learn a little about the local area! Dinosaur Discovery Museum in Kenosha, WI is an absolute must-visit on your list for kids and the kid-at-heart!  It’s a unique science museum exploring not just the history of carnivorous dinosaurs and their biology, but also their connection to modern birds and raptors.  It’s a small but truly fascinating location with impressive dinosaur skeletons and educational displays. Where are some of your favorite local and regional destinations to visit? What would you recommend tourists put on their must-see list? Let us know in the comments and we may feature them in future updates!

Happy Autumnal Equinox!  Everyone here at Classic Auto Group is so excited for Leaf Peeping Season to begin.  That’s why we’re celebrating with an amazing list of places you can scope out top notch fall foliage across Illinois and Wisconsin, and great autumnal locations for family portraits. more Bowen Park in Waukegan is a 60 acre park once home to John Charles Haines from 1857-1896, and is now a family friendly recreational area with picnic grounds, hiking trails, a playground, and beautiful gardens.  If you’re looking to take some family portraits in the local area, this is a great place to visit! Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods IL is a beautiful 552 Acre preserve with 6.5 miles of scenic hiking trails which wind through the forest and over to the Des Plaines River.  Its protected woodlands are home to multiple endangered species of wildlife and plants.  Trees in the area include sugar maples, oaks, and hickories which will make a lush backdrop for fall foliage photos! Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe spans 385 acres with 27 gardens to explore.  When autumn rolls around, the trees will display a dazzling array of fiery colors and the autumnal shrubs and flowers will also put on a fabulous display. The University of St. Mary on the Lake in Mundelein has a beautiful lake surrounded by natural wonders, bridges, and monuments.  It’s a truly stunning sight to see when the fall foliage makes its appearance and its lake reflection twinkles in the light of golden hour.  It’s a wonderful backdrop for couples photos and family portraits. Chain O’ Lakes State Park in Albion has breathtaking views of the autumnal leaves!  Whether you choose to sit back and relax at the lakeside, or wish to explore the 10 miles of hiking trails there’s no shortage of picturesque scenery here! Lake County Forest Preserves have family friendly facilities for humans and their furry companions alike!  Take the whole family including your pets out to the forest preserve for some fall foliage family photos (try saying that one three times fast.)  Visit Fort Sheridan in Highland Park,Hastings Lake in Lake Villa, Independence Grove in Libertyville, Millennium Trail in Volo, Old School in Libertyville. Looking for more great trails and areas to explore in Lake County? Check out this great list for more options. Heinz Apple Orchard in Green Oaks is of course a classic destination for fall foliage watching and autumnal celebrations. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy some U-Pick Orchard family fun time with some cozy sweaters, fall flannels, and take some coordinated family portraits for memory making! Heller Nature Center in Highland Park is a 97 acre park and Oak-Hickory forest, which is also home to Autumn Fest on September 23rd from 4PM to 7PM.  Bring the whole family out to enjoy some nature hikes, or stop in for a guided lesson with local experts! Didier Farms in Lincolnshire is prime autumn joy for families and visitors of all ages!  The farm has a rotating series of events and gatherings all season long through Halloween!  From hayrides to corn mazes and pumpkin picking to harvest festivals, it’s an iconic part of local traditions each Fall, for more than 100 years! Big Foot Beach State Park in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is an incredible 271 acre state park known for hiking, camping, picnicking, and fishing.  There is a family friendly campground for those who wish to immerse themselves in the autumnal wonders of the forest and lake.  Explore the 5 miles of hiking trails and scenic views and snap some great autumnal photos. Seven Bridges Trail at Grant Park in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin is unparalleled excellence in autumnal scenery.  This 2 mile nature trail is the main attraction in Grant Park, one of the oldest parks in Milwaukee County.  You’ll be lost in the beauty of Mother Nature from the forest out to the beach!  It’s very family friendly. Holy Hill in Hubertus, Wisconsin is an outstanding place to experience the full effect of autumnal foliage.  High atop the hill at the Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, Holy Hill provides a birdseye view for striking sightlines of the fiery landscape below. Did we leave your favourite leaf peeping spot off our list? Let us know your favourite places to see the leaves in the comments below and we may feature it in a future update.

Today is International Literacy Day!  We’re celebrating this important holiday, created in 1967 and supported by UNESCO, by sharing a list of amazing organizations and charities who support Literacy as a Human Right.  More than 770 million people around the world are lacking in basic literacy skills, but you can help change that by donating to funding efforts or sharing your time through volunteer efforts! more Through combined efforts of community outreach, charitable giving, active volunteerism, and advocacy work, UNESCO aims to promote accessible learning and increase resources to those who need it most.  This year’s theme is Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces, and focuses on creating quality, equitable, and inclusive learning education environments for all.   With many schools and education systems disrupted by pandemic related issues over the last two years and change, access to school and literacy education has been lost or interrupted for so many vulnerable people. Check out these wonderful local organizations that promote Literacy and Reading in our community: Reading Success - United Way of Lake County Adult Classes at Waukegan Public Library Adult Literacy and ESL Programs at College of Lake County Illinois Literacy Volunteers of Illinois Literacy Works in Chicago Chicago Literacy Group Literacy Office of Illinois State Library Everyone Reading Illinois Center for Literacy at University of Illinois, Chicago Here’s a list of different ways that you can support Literacy efforts at home and in your community. Let’s help improve the lives of children and adults everywhere! Reading with Children: Start reading to kids at an early age.  Fostering a love for reading can begin as early as infancy!  Reading books to young children can encourage them to be more interested in books. Inviting them to participate in easy tasks such as looking at pictures and describing them, pointing out what they see, holding the book for you to read, and even turning pages can help them connect with books and reading in a positive light. Turn on the subtitle and captioning function for movies and television programs at home, to help children connect words and descriptions to the verbal dialogue and actions on screen, especially if they’re learning English as a multiple/second language. Establish a read-aloud routine with the children who are in your care.  Creating a specific time (or times) every day as a set scheduled story time can help children look forward to reading, and create healthy patterns and habits.  Kids love predictability and thrive on routine, and having at least 2 read-aloud time slots to look forward to can engage them with books and stories in a meaningful way. Engage in “See-Show-Say” strategies for early learning and childhood development, and highlight different vocabulary words as a focus of each story and read-through. Allow children to choose the books and stories you’re reading, and put at least one of their all-time favorite books in heavy rotation during your sessions!  The more excited children are about what content you’re reading, the more likely they are to participate, engage, and pay attention. Reading with Multilingual and English-Language-Learning Speakers: Offer ELL students one daily lesson with English vocabulary, and highlighting the structure and style of English Language, and encourage them to engage with content through verbal responses and answer questions at least one time each during each reading/learning session. Note that English language learners may require five years or more to catch up to fully fluent English-speaking students, so be patient, empathetic, and affirming in their positive steps forward. Encourage students in a class or workshop setting to engage with their peers through writing, peer-critique and feedback, and read-alouds in small groups. Increasing Access to Reading and Literacy at a Community Level: Help communities and schools provide screen readers, assistive listening devices, captioning, and other accessibility resources to disabled, hard of heating, and blind individuals. Create and maintain a “Little Free Library” in your neighborhood or community, and make sure it is stocked with reading materials for all levels. Include some phonics/comprehension and English Language Learning materials to increase accessibility. Include large-print books to help comprehension, as well as accessibility for those with limited vision or difficulty reading fine print.  Include wordless picture books to encourage storytelling and reading comprehension even if a person or family does not speak English fluently Donate books to local school libraries and classrooms, and ask local teachers and school librarians what books they have on their wishlist. Include books that are multilingual, bilingual, and feature diverse protagonists to encourage new readers or new ELLs to engage and connect with stories. Volunteer your time to reading of stories at local schools, libraries, family shelters, youth groups, and hospitals. Volunteer your time and patience to tutoring efforts for ELLs and new readers to gently and enthusiastically encourage them to continue learning outside of the classroom. Support local legislature that funds libraries, supports public schooling, funds summer reading programs, and other organizations that provide free learning tools and opportunities to the community. Donate your time and money to support local and international charities who provide learning resources and reading materials to underserved, marginalized, and underrepresented demographics around the world.

If there’s two things we love here at Classic besides cars, it’s celebrating fun holidays and supporting our fellow community businesses.  Since today is National Beer Lovers Day, we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to highlight some of the wonderful micro breweries, indie brew pubs, and other related businesses in the area.  We’re always delighted to connect with new local businesses and patronize the establishments in our neighborhood. It’s a lovely feeling to get to live, work and play here in Lake County and the surrounding Greater Chicago Area! more Did you know that the craft brewing industry has had a magnificent impact on the economy here in the US? In 2021, the industry contributed more than $75 Billion into the US economy and more than 490,000 jobs?  The beer industry itself supports more than 2 million American jobs and more than $330 billion contributed to the US Economy according to a 2020 study. The early months of the Covid19 pandemic did shake things up a bit, and the industry is working hard to rebuild and reinvigorate jobs and production.  Supporting small breweries is a great way to help improve the economy on a local and national level! Locally owned and operated businesses are a vital part of our community!  These businesses are the foundation of our local economy, provide diverse resources, function as community meeting centers, create meaningful connections and networks, and provide plenty of jobs to local citizens. Consider stopping by these businesses for a brew or booking them for a special event!  Many of them also offer cases or multipacks that you can take home for your parties, gatherings, or sell wholesale to your restaurant or cafe.  It’s a great way to directly support your neighbors and local business while helping them reach new audiences. Local Micro Breweries, Brew Pubs, and Beer Companies: Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewery ZumBier Lake Bluff Brewing Company Tighthead Brewing Company Booners Bosacki’s Brewery Light the Lamp Brewery Oppidan Spirits Black Lung Brewing Company Mickey Finn’s Brewery Harbor Brewing Company North Avenue Tap Liquid Love Brewing Flapjack Brewery Goose Island Brewhouse Lagunitas Brewing Company Chicago Crushed by Giants Brewing Company Chicago Metropolitan Brewing Chicago Upcoming Beer and Brew Festivals: Highland Park Oktoberfest, September 16th/17th Grayslake Craft Beer Festival in Grayslake, September 17th Brewgrass Festival 2022 in Round Lake Beach, September 17th Oktober Fest Chicago, Friday September 23rd 6th Annual Beer in the Woods Festival in Chicago, September 24th Festival of Wood and Barrelaged Beer in Chicago,  November 4th/5th Oktoberfest at Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove, September 30th A reminder about responsible, safe driving: Please, remember that even just one alcoholic beverage before driving can impair your thinking, reasoning, and coordination.  Bear in mind that generally you should wait at least one to two hours after one drink, so your body has enough time to process the beverage.  In any case, no matter where you’re going or how many people you’re with you should have at least one designated driver in attendance when you visit any bar, brew pub, or event where alcohol is served.  The safest driver is a fully sober driver! If you or someone you know have a drinking problem, there are organizations and people who can help. Lake County Health Department Addictions Treatment Program Banyan Treatment Centers - Arlington Heights Recovery Centers of America at South Elgin JEM Treatment INC Addictions Associates Therapy Inc of Libertyville

It’s National Tailgating Day!  Whether you’re at the stadium or arena for a big pro ball game, or you’re hanging out with fellow parents at your kiddos’ local tournament, there’s never a bad time for a tailgate party. Get ready for the upcoming sports season with these fun car gadgets and travel worthy barbecue gear. more Great Gadgets for Tailgating at Home or Away with Friends Even if you opted out of season tickets this year, we’re bringing you plenty of ways to party with your friends and social bubble and recreate the game-day experience.  Gather your friends in your driveway, the cul-de-sac, or a local parking lot for some good ol’ fashioned tailgating with modern convenience. Camp X Chairs from REI Co-Op (currently on sale for 50% off at time of posting!) have a max capacity of 300lbs, making them very size inclusive.  They have integrated cup holders to keep your drinks from spills, a convenient pocket for your cell phone, and easy to clean mesh and polyester fabric. They’re light weight and packs up into its own carry bag. You’ll want to have at least a set of four on hand at all times! The Eureka Camp Table at REI (currently on sale under $100!) folds flat, stows easily, and pops up in no time! It can hold quite a lot of equipment and food at a 90lb capacity total, making it very convenient for tailgating and serving meals!  As an added bonus it comes with its very own carry bag for portability. We love it when gadgets are not just useful but also conveniently practical! This combination storage cooler and ottoman is the best of both worlds! Stuff it to the gills with your favorite drinks, meats, fruit, and other goodies. Empty it out, fire up the grill, and when you’re done you can pack it up flat to stow and go!  Great for all-year round use anywhere. Available at Overstock in multiple colorways. Looking for a portable and affordable grilling option?  Take your show on the road with this 13” barrel charcoal grill for less than $50 (and at the time of posting, it’s on a closeout deal!)  Easy maneuverability and ample space to do kebabs, burgers, hot dogs, and more. Available here at Wayfair. Even though Autumn usually ushers in the cooler weather, it’s still important to remember protection from the sun! The SUV Tailgate Canopy Tent attaches easily to the rear hatch and allows your guests to enjoy some shade. It’s also great for those misty, foggy days for a little protection from the elements so you can enjoy your games no matter the weather! Flexible set up for SUVs, Crossovers, Mini Wagons, or Pickup trucks with a cap. Available here at Sharper Image. Great Tailgating Recipes and Cooking Gear Every good tailgating grill master will want to have the following on hand at all times to ensure their toolbox has all the essentials for an outdoor ‘cue or picnic: High heat silicone tongs 1 high heat silicone spatula Large metal serving spoons Metal serving bowls set Grilling tools set Industrial trash bags Camping plates and cups set or disposable plastic/paper 100% Compostable Utensils Set Aluminum Foil, Plastic Wrap, Ziplock Bags A Lighter and/or long matches Charcoal or Butane fuel Tired of the same ol’ same ol’ grilled meats and bottled beverages? Spice things up with these new recipes and impress your guests. Easy BBQ Brats Must-Try No-Cook Tailgating Recipes by Mighty Mrs 11 Best Tailgate Grill Recipes Pullapart Dogs in a Blanket Ring Mary Alice’s Hoagie Dip Butterscotch Peanut Butter Bars Mini Sliders Grilled Beer Punch Venezuelan Empanadas Devon’s Award-Winning Chili Spiked Lemonade

We’re back with the latest edition of Classic’s Community Calendar!  Whether you’re looking to occupy your Labor Day Weekend with fun-filled activities, or you’re planning ahead for weekend breaks from Back to School wackiness, we’ve got you covered! more On September 1st at Hinkston Park, stop by with your special someone for “Pop-Up Picnic in the Park Couples Date Night. On September 1st, 2nd and 3rd, enjoy a Guided Museum Tour of the African American Museum at England Manor at 11AM, 1PM and 3PM! On September 2nd, enjoy First Friday on Mainstreet in Libertyville from 10AM to 9PM for an entire day filled with community bonding, art, shopping, food, live music, and so much more! On September 2nd, 3rd, and 4th the Downtown area of Highwood is transforming into Nashville’s Honky Tonk Row for its 5th Annual Nashwood Music Festival! It’s three whole days of FREE live music with country, bluegrass, southern rock flare.  There will also be plenty of delicious food and drink specials throughout the weekend, and 25 different venues including 10 outdoor spaces! On September 3rd shop your heart out at the Back to School Pop-Up at 12912 Cheyenne Road in Waukegan and check out the plentiful wares of local vendors and artisans! On September 3rd in the evening from 6PM to 8PM, head over to the Plant House in Waukegan for an evening of Therapeutic Art Making and experiential art making!  You’ll get to socialize, try new materials and mediums, and take a creative approach to self expression for your mental health. On Saturday September 3rd,  head over to the Wauconda Chamber of Commerce office from 5PM to 11PM for Wauconda’s 23rd Annual Street Dance event! On September 4th at the Belvidere Discount Mall, the gearheads among us will get their engines revving for the Cars & Elotes Labor Day Celebration event! September 4th at Art Pop in Lake Forest you can stop by anytime between 10AM and 5PM for “The Inside Art Show at Art Pop” September 3rd through 5th is the last weekend for the Bristol Renaissance Faire of Lake County IL. September 8th in Lake Zurich, stop by in the evening around 5PM to the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce for a super exciting “Cruisin’ Lake Zurich Car Show” event! September 10th from 9AM to 1PM enjoy a morning filled with fun classic cars at t he Grayslake Rotary and Fop Car Show Cruisin’ on Center at Downtown Grayslake Center Street. September 10th and 11th is the very exciting 11th Annual Mundelein Arts Festival, from 10AM to 5PM you can enjoy arts, music, food, shopping, and much more! Free admission and free parking. Sunday September 11th at the Impact Fuel Room is a wild and joyful “Drag Me to Brunch” event in Libertyville! Fun, food, and entertainment! On September 15th, 22nd, 24th, 29th starting at 5PM, head over to Waukegan BMX to catch the Local Race Single as part of the local race series for just $15. On September 17th in Lake Forest at the Gordon Community Center from 5PM to 7:30PM come on out for the Annual Block Party 2022! On September 21st at Green Town on The Rocks, come catch some wonderful live music from 6PM to 9PM at the lakefront with Billy Garner. September 24th at Cuneo Mansion & Gardens is a wonderful support charity event “Bottoms Up for Babies” with live music and a live speaker event starting at 6:30! Come on down to the Waukegan Public Library’s NonFiction Book Club on September 28th from 5PM to 7:30PM and learn a little something new! On September 30th from 6PM to 9PM at Dandelion Gallery & Studio, come over and paint with Artist Cody Madura for an “Adult Paint Social: Autumn Inspired” class! September 30th at the Genesee Theatre from 6:30 to 7:30PM, get a jump start on the season of scary with a Ghost Wauk Tour!

Today we're covering some of the most interesting and exciting places to visit in nearby Fort Wayne, Indiana!  Did you know that in just a few short hours you can explore a whole new state and see gorgeous artwork, explore historical sites, take in natural wonders, and enjoy a night out on the town?  If you're looking for an affordable road trip to take with family and friends, Fort Wayne has so much to offer.  Check out our latest Travel Guide and find some new destinations to visit and make lasting memories with your loved ones! more Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo first opened its doors in 1965, and this impressive 40 acre facility is now home to 1,400 animals.  It’s a wonderful way to spend some time outdoors, learning new facts about animals, meeting critters up close and personal, and enjoying some quality family bonding for all ages.  It’s budget friendly as well, with tickets under $20 (babies are free!) Science Central is a regional museum dedicated to inspiring young minds to explore the sciences and STEAM activities with hands-on learning!  Tickets are affordably priced between $10-$12, with kids 2 and under free.  Where else could you check out mastodon bones, walk on the moon, and perform science experiments live?  There’s also lots of great physical activities including a two-story slide!  Perfect place to bring your high-energy kids to get the wiggles out. The Genealogy Center and Lincoln Collection is a unique experience for those who love a more scholarly destination.  Enjoy a tour of the facility with a knowledgeable guide for personal exploration or research purposes.  Ask the Genealogy Librarians questions about researching your family tree, or schedule a personal consultation for a 30 minute in-depth one-to-one meeting. Debrand Fine Chocolate is a super sweet way to have some fun and a delicious reward at the end!  This artisanal chocolatier offers guided tours to visitors of all ages where you’ll watch a short informational film, sample some of the finest confections, get a behind the scenes look at operations, and then exit through the most delicious gift shop there is! Sweetwater Music Store is the largest purveyor of instruments and music gear in the United. States.  Want to try your hand at “Stairway” on a spectacular electric guitar? No one will stop you from rocking out, here!  Open 7 days a week, this incredible musical supercenter is a musicians dream. The Embassy Theatre was built in 1928 as a movie theatre, but was later converted into a music hall and performance center. It’s now the official home of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Orchestra.  Stop by and book tickets for an upcoming show and enjoy some stand-up comedy, musical theatre, live concert, and so much more. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is a wondrous place to behold! This enclosed nature conservatory is located in downtown Fort Worth and is a lush, tropical paradise filled with bold blossoms, waving palms, and a cascading waterfall.  With three indoor gardens covering 24,500 square feet, you’ll have plenty of exciting things to see.  There’s also a whimsical goldfish pond that’s sure to delight curious minds! The Fun Farm is a one-of-a-kind memorable experience with 100 square feet of space to explore in each unique playhouse!  Rent an individual play house for your family and friends and spend the day laughing, making memories, and enjoying all sorts of cheerful entertainment.  You can opt in to balloon art, face painting, caricature drawing, and even visits from costumed pals! Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum in nearby Auburn is a must see for automotive fans!  Dedicated to preservation of Auburn Automobiles, Cord Automobiles, and Duesenberg Motors Company.  With a combination of both rotating and permanent exhibits, there’s always something new and exciting to see when you visit.  Whether you’re enjoying car themed artworks, exploring vintage vehicles, or learning about automotive engineering, we’re sure it’ll be a hit on your vacation. The Fort Wayne Museum of Art’s focus is collecting, preserving, and exploring decades of history in American Art, and encouraging the public to engage in these unique perspectives. With both permanent and rotating traveling exhibits, visitors can observe and appreciate artwork from the 19th century through today. Escape Rooms in the Fort Wayne area include “Fort Wayne Escape Room”, “ Escapology”, “LockedUpLife” and “Hysterium Escapes” with themes and difficulties of numerous levels tailored to your party’s age group.  A great exercise for teamwork and camaraderie as you work to solve a puzzle, solve codes, and explore mysteries all before the clock runs out! Artlink Contemporary Art Gallery is a regional non-profit organization that supports the creative arts through exhibitions, workshops, classes, and events!  The gallery provides free admission for all to enjoy the work of local Indiana state artists. Lindenwood Nature Preserv e is an outstanding 100 acre wooded preserve with a gorgeous open-air pavilion, 4 different hiking trails to explore, picnic facilities, and a sparkling lake. Lakeside Park and Rose Garden is a stunning facility with 2,000 rose plants,a fish pond, and 25.8 acres of space for enjoying recreational activities such as trail walks, tennis, basketball, fishing, skating, picnics, and more.  It has been open since 1908 and named a National Rose Garden in 1928.  It’s a wonderful place to rest, relax, and even enjoy a little romance! Bread and Circus Gallery is committed to highlighting community connection to art through artist residencies, local and regional art exhibitions, and international and national artist mentorships.  It’s the place to be if you want to have your finger on the pulse of emerging and newly established artists on the rise. Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum is located in a former engine house, and showcases artifacts, gear, memorabilia, and even fire trucks from days gone by!  It’s going to delight and impress even the youngest in your midst, especially the fire truck enthusiasts. You’ll have a chance to take a journey back in time through two floors of exhibits, and can even opt into a special workshop to get some safety training of your own! Hanson Quarry Observation Deck is an impressive and thrilling viewing deck above a 1,000-foot-deep hole in the ground known as “Indiana’s Grand Canyon.  You don’t have to be a geological expert to enjoy the magnificent sight of this limestone quarry!  It’s a gorgeous photo op for the whole family to enjoy. Have you got a favourite place to visit in Fort Wayne, Indiana that we’ve left off this list? Let us know in the comments on our social media and we may include it in a future road trip guide! Walking Downtown Fort Wayne Indiana https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxwdG-JthFc Things to Do in Fort Wayne Indiana https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P9YFF_VQXA

There’s no better way to say farewell to summer and hello to the pending fall weather than a great campout!  And of course, as the nights get cooler and the days shorter, a great campfire is an absolute must! Today is national campfire day, and we thought it fitting to share fun and easy ways to camp in your vehicle!  No matter if you’re just taking a little nap on the side of the highway on an epic road trip, or you’ve made plans for a wilderness adventure as a weekend getaway, you’ll find lots of useful content on today’s blog.  We’ve got tips and tricks for campfires, campsite meals, gadgets and gizmos to camp in your car without a tent, and more. more Here’s some easy hacks to staying safe while using your car as a campsite: Make sure the space you choose for your car campout is a legal parking area; some spaces may require temporary passes, permits, or registration. Choose a flat, shaded area so your car will be stable and cool, and make sure the parking brake is engaged to avoid accident or injury. Adhere to posted signage and any warnings for roving wildlife, natural disaster prone areas, areas available to hunters/bowman, etc. Charge your electronics while you’re driving and ensure they’re fully powered before you turn in for the night.  Otherwise, choose a portable solar charger or battery pack for your car and electronics. Ensure all of your food is safely stowed in a container with a secure lid or a cooler. Hang a battery operated headlamp or battery operated lantern nearby for safety especially in case you need to take a bathroom break, check on your pets or human companions, or just do a little late night reading. Make sure your windows are open to provide proper ventilation and air circulation; you can DIY your own mesh window covering or buy a car tent mesh window cover. Make sure you have given your location to a family member or friend for safety, and check in with them before you turn in for the evening, and again when you wake up, for safety precautions. Check out this really cool camping conversion for a car: Great Car Camping Gadgets Buffing Hero’s Non-Inflatable Car Mattress is under $200 and a great portable mattress for backseats, hatchbacks, and more. Portable Camping an with LED Lantern and 40H Battery Life is great for circulating air and keeping cool while resting for less than $20. EcoNour  Car Window Screens for Camping 2 Pack is under $20 and keeps the bugs and pests out but lets fresh air in and is under $20 a pair. Tips and Tools for Making a Great Campfire: Adhere to any posted signage that allows or prohibits bonfires, firepits, grilling, etc. Follow one of the 5 methods of building a campfire. Check out Smokey the Bear’s tips for maintaining a safe and sustained campfire. Do not light a campfire or ignite anything near a vehicle as it is a fire hazard. Learn how to choose the right area of a campsite to build your campfire or fire pit. Snag yourself these essential campfire tools The Campfire Pocket Torch on REI.com A good pair of fire gloves from REI.com Campfire utensils from REI.com A Cast Iron Fire Pit Griddle A Cast Iron Dutch Oven Wonderful Campfire Recipes to Try on Your Next Campout Vegan Camping Meals Campfire Fish Recipe Campfire Trout with Herbs and Bacon Mini S’mores Grilled Corn in Husk Camper’s Breakfast Hash Skillet Herb Bread Get-Up-And-Go Granola

Today is National Dash Cam Day!  We’re here to help shine a light on one of the most important new tools to enhance safety and security for all vehicles and all drivers.  Give yourself more peace of mind in the event of an accident, reduce the chances of theft, and even potentially lower your car insurance premium thanks to added protection. more This tiny camera can be mounted on the windshield or dashboard of your vehicle, and the rear windows.  Dash cams are a wonderful piece of technology that can help accurately report damage during collisions by serving as a witness with record, improves your driving skills, and can upload footage to the cloud for later use as needed. It’s also a great way to protect younger drivers by having an “extra set of eyes” when you can’t be there as a parent to monitor them. Basic models will record the road, mid-range models offer additional protecting like parking monitoring, and higher level options can do all of that and more! Check out our picks for some options to fit just about every need and budget. The Dual Dash Cam Front and Inside 1080P Camera for $59.99 on Amazon has Infrared Night Vision and dual mounting options.  It’s great for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road after dark, and also great for monitoring your car if you use street parking.  In addition, it has features that trigger the camera recording if your car is hit while parked. LAMTTO’s Mirror Dash Cam with Front and Rear Dual Camera and Parking Assistant is another great budget friendly feature on our list today. At just $69.99 on Amazon at the time of posting this, it’s a fantastic entry level model to increase your safety and security without breakin the bank. The Nextbase 222 Dash Cam is available for $90 at Walmart and it has 1080P HD capabilities, and enhanced tech for both daytime and nighttime recording. It’s compact design makes it convenient to place anywhere to monitor your car both on and off the road.  It’s got a low-profile design and high-strength magnets for easy installation that stays out of your eyesight. Car and DRiver’s Dash Cam Road Patrol Dual FHD 1080P Cameras have a Sony sensor, night vision, GPS and more.  The convenient and clear OLED touch screen makes it easy to change settings, view footage, and navigate menu options.  It will keep your car safe on and off the road with Drivesmart Alert System for enhanced driver safety, and parking mode which starts recording as soon as it detects a collision. The Garmin Dash Cam 47 at Best Buy for $169.99 may not be the highest quality camera on the market, but it’s got clear visuals, an easy app interface, it’s simple to install and use, and it’s a great value for the dollar! The Thinkware U1000 Wi-Fi Dash Cam with 32GBS memory card and Rear View Camera is the top tier price point on our list, but it's worth it. With 4K UHD Dash Cam Resolution, Low-Light 30FPS Recording potential, a built-in GPS tracker with microphone and speaker, and the Thinkware Cloud App for iOS and Android, it’s the best of the best right now on the market. It also includes driver assistance features such as forward collision, lane departure, and other safety features. Check out this video from CNET on Choosing a Dash Cam for your car:

Welcome to another edition of our Car Care Service Tips blog!  We’re here to help you maintain our vehicle between your regularly scheduled maintenance appointments at our service center and auto body shop.  Check out these summer essential service points before you head out on your next long drive or day trip. more Check Tire Air Pressure and Rotate Tires After several day-trips or even a lengthy drive to your vacation destination, your car tires are going to have seen their fair share of wear-and-tear.  Check the tread depth for signs of wear or uneven tread; replace or patch any damaged tires.  Check the tire pressure before you depart on your next adventure, and especially with any 10 degree temperature change outside. Inflate them to the recommended PSI from the manufacturer’s guidelines. Make sure you bring your car in for a wheel alignment check and have the tires rotated to ensure even wear. Top off Fluids While it’s important to keep your car’s fluids in check on the regular and with each seasonal maintenance, it’s imperative that during the summer months you especially keep an eye on your Coolant and motor oil levels. An increase in summer travel along with high-heat can mean these fluids are depleted quicker than average, and the last thing you want is to be stranded on the highway with a seized engine.  Make sure that you have Antifreeze/Coolant topped off as well as the appropriate oil before you leave on a long trip. Change Oil and filter Each vehicle make/model will differ in mileage requirements for oil changes, but most are between 3,000 and 6,000 miles between an oil change service.  Be sure that you bring your car in at the appropriate mileage markers especially if you’ve been making frequent drives or a long journey.  It will ensure your vehicle runs more efficiently in hot weather, reducing the chance of a seized engine or fuel inefficiency. Clean and/or replace air filter Summer heat means running the AC frequently, and that can lead to a need to replace your air filter in just one or two months as opposed to the usual 3.  Make sure you’re regularly checking the filter and cleaning it as needed, or replacing it earlier if you’ve been doing a lot of driving this summer.  It will ensure that your AC runs properly and can consistently cool your vehicle. Park your car in the shade Finding the shadiest spot in the lot during summer has quite a lot of benefits for your vehicle.  The most obvious benefit of a shady spot is keeping the interior cool, making it more comfortable for you to drive later and preventing damage to the car’s leather or fabric surfaces.  If you can’t find a shady spot, you can add a window shade or a sunshield to the windshield and prevent UV light from warming your car as quickly.  Shaded parking over the long term can also help protect the longevity of your car’s paint and protective clear coat, which can be damaged over time by long exposure to direct sunlight.  Using a fabric car cover for prolonged storage or lengthy parking times such as a few days can help keep paint safe. Is there a topic you wish to see covered in depth on a future service post update? Let us know in the comments on our social media!