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Today’s National Mutt Day, so we thought we’d get into the pawliday spirit a little bit with another great gift guide blog!  This time, we’re covering fun and convenient items to make traveling with your furry companions a real dream.  No matter whether you’re traveling across country living that #VanLife, or flying a few states over to visit loved ones, or even just taking a trip to the local dog park, you’ll love our finds for great pet friendly travel items.  We’ve got feeders and carriers and creature comforts galore. more Pawfect House has this adorable Personalized Car Sunshade for $35.99 plus free shipping!  You can choose up to 6 pets to feature on the car shade to show your love for your furry friends while keeping the car nice and cool while it’s parked. Mollymutt’s gorgeous Papillon Car Seat Cover measures 56”x56” and fits most vehicles with front and back seat headrests for convenience and comfort!  Forget vacuuming muddy paw prints, fur clumps, and other dust and dirt away!  This will keep your car’s upholstery clean and tidy and be comfortable for your hiking companions. If you’ve got a large and in charge pup who takes up the backseat, we’ve got just the thing for you! This backseat extender with storage option from Orvis is the perfect way to give your dog the space they need to stretch, but not lose any storage space or passenger room!  It’s under $100 and is conveniently portable to stow and store when you don’t need it, making it a real great buy. If you’re constantly on the go exploring the wilderness, running the trails, camping in the great outdoors, or just generally spending time with an active pet, chances are accidents are bound to happen.  Be prepared for just about everything with the Adventure Medical Human and Pet First Aid kit for dogs!  A great gift idea for the person who is always on the move with their canine companion, it’s just $45 on sale at the time of publication. If you’ve ever had to leave your home or hotel due to inclement weather disasters such as flooding, hurricanes, or even tornados, you know that having a go-bag is an essential survival need for evacuations.  Be sure that your pet is prepared, too! The Pet Evac Pak Big Dog Pak Pet Emergency Kit will keep you covered for 72hrs with everything you need right in a handy back pack. It includes drinking water packets, emergency basic dog food rations, portable water bowls and leads, and can keep your pet fed and watered til you can reach safety.  It’s also great for those who travel road trips and long distances, just in case of emergency! Traveling with your pals means bringing their favorite food and special treats along, too! We love the Travel-Tainer by Vittles Vault for taking your pal’s meals safely to your destination.  It’s conveniently portable and you can use the handy attached lids for food and water, too! Taking your small to medium dog with you on an airline?  Need a portable carrier for hotel and RV stays? No problem! The Roverlund Out of Office Pet Carrier is a 3-in-1 design that holds dogs up to 15-25lbs and comes with a bonus leash for easy travel! Doubles as a travel bag for your pet as well as a bed. The Mobile Dog Gear Week Away Tote Pet Travel Bag comes in four different color and pattern options that make it easy to take all of your pet essentials on the go!  It’s lightweight and built for convenience: 1 large main storage area, mesh side and back pockets, a luggage ID tag, a placemat, 2 collapsible silicone bowls, and 2 carriers for food and treats!  Perfect for picnics, beach days, camping, and visits to grandma's house. The Headrest Back Seat Protector from 3 Dog Pet Supply is made to fit most vehicle’s backseats to provide your dog with comfort and your car with an added layer of protection from grit, grime, and doggy dirt.  Offered in two colors, this easy to clean upholstery protector is a must-have for active pets.

The holiday season is here, and with it comes Classic Auto Group’s 2022 Gift Guide for Gearheads!  No matter what you celebrate, it’s always good fun and cheer to share gift exchanges with your friends, family, and loved ones, and of course, there’s the annual company party with coworkers.  If you’re looking for a little guidance to get the perfect gift this holiday season, we’ve got you covered with some great gifts for car enthusiasts and serious gearheads. more The last few years of shutdowns, lockdowns, and pandemic related woes have hit small businesses the hardest, so if you’re able we’d love to encourage you to shop small whenever possible. Get a jump start on your shopping check out our gift guide featuring lots of independent businesses this year! Apparel Some people are more subtle and wear their heart on their sleeve, but these gifts will let the recipient wear their passions emblazoned across their chest for all to see. This “Still Plays with Blocks” shirt from CrazyDogTShirts on Etsy is a fantastic gift for your favorite mechanic. It comes in two color options for tees, as well as a hoodie.  It’s got fairly fast shipping options, too! These Check Engine Ties from Cyberoptix on Etsy are the perfect gift for any automotive enthusiast, and of course would be perfect to wear on New Years Eve. This item comes in three different colors and ships free to the US. These custom embroidered car sweatshirts and hoodies by MadeMyDays on Etsy are sporty, soft, and really unique!  Who doesn’t love snuggling into a cozy hoodie on a cold winter's day? Exactly!  They’re also customizable, and you can leave your requests and reference images with the seller via Etsy Messages for a personal touch. This is the perfect T-Shirt to purchase for the gearhead who gabs about their car at any given moment. 365CarMods on Etsy offers this fun shirt in 4 different colorways and up to a 3XL. Spend over $35 on items from their shop and the shipping is free! Know someone who carries around pics of their car like other people do of their kids and grandkids? We sure do! This customized car hoodie from MotorElement on Etsy makes a fabulous gift! Send in a photo of that special car and have it personalized for the recipient. Comes in White or Black in sizes up to a 5XL, and your choice of custom backgrounds. Home Decor Bring a little bit of the garage into your home, but without the mess!  Here’s some great ideas for automotive decor that don’t include oil stains, grease marks, and other under-the-hood gunk. Got a DIYer in your midst? These spark plug coat and hat hooks from CJ7Designs on Etsy are the perfect gift. These are a great swap in for the crafty handyperson to create their own one-of-a-kind coat rack or hat rack! Get that special someone some custom lighting for their den or office, or heck even their garage workspace. These really cool custom automotive desk lamps from CustomHarleyLampShop on Etsy make a fine luxury gift item for your significant other or family member. For a more modern touch, we recommend these beautiful personalized cut metal signs from YourWeddingPlace on Etsy. They can be personalized with any text up to 10 characters per line. You can choose from 5 different colors and finishes, and 6 different sizes.  It’s one of the most sought-after automotive gifts on Etsy right now, too! Your loved one will (hopefully) never be late to another family get-together again if you get them this awesome Wall Clock made from an upcycled clutch pressure plate from ANGWheelsIn on Etsy! As an added bonus, it ships free to the US! Trendy gift recipients will be elated to receive this custom car gearbox neon sign from KudetaStore on Etsy! It comes in 3 sizes and fully customizable color options from more than 10 choices.  It also ships free to the US, and comes from an Etsy Star Seller.  This would make a great group gift for friends or several family members to chip in on. Stay tuned for another edition of our Gift Guides for Gearheads later this month!  We’ll be back with fresh new options and suggestions for personalized and unique gift giving for all the car lovers in your life. And feel free to leave your gift suggestions in the comments!

We’ve covered tips and tricks for roadside safety, proper car maintenance, and plenty of road trip ideas, but today we’re taking it back to the basics and fundamentals of driver safety: seatbelts!  To celebrate National Seat Belt Day, we’re sharing some important facts about seat belt usage as well as some suggestions for securing your family pets on the road, too. It’s all right here on today’s blog. more Vector illustration of safety belt, seat belt. Seat belt for protection. Safety equipment for vehicle or plane. Safety first, fasten your seat belt sign with arrow. Green background. We’re thrilled to report that according to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2021’s national use rate of seatbelts by Americans was an impressive 90.4%! In 2020, NHTSA reports that out of the 23,000+ passengers of cars who died in vehicle accidents, 51% of them were not seatbelted. It’s important to buckle up each and every time, no matter how long or short your trip is - in fact, most crashes happen within 25 miles of your home. (NHTSA) Buckling up in the front seat of a car can reduce risk of fatal injury by 45% and moderate to critical injuries reduced by 50% (NHTSA) Airbags are not a replacement for seat belts, but rather are there to work in tandem and further reduce injury or chances of death. If your seatbelt is not comfortable, you can acquire seat belt adjusters or seat belt extenders both as aftermarket products and from your vehicle’s manufacturer. Vintage, classic, and antique vehicles should be updated and retrofitted with modern standardized seat belts to ensure a safe ride. Seatbelts are a matter of national concern, and 49 out of the 50 states have specific laws about usage and requirements! Did you know that use of seatbelts and vehicle restraints drops by 40% in children when parents don’t properly use their seat belts? 57% of 13 and 14 year olds who were involved in fatal crashes in 2020 were unrestrained. Setting a good example for younger drivers and younger passengers can save their lives! (NHTSA) Children should always remain secured in car seats and/or booster seats until they have outgrown the size and weight limits of their booster seats, or have reached a size where they can fit properly in the seat with safe seat belt usage. Generally, this is between ages of 8 and 12. Additionally, all children under 13 should remain in the back seat. From 1975 through 2017, seat belts have saved more than 370,000 lives. Car Safety for Pets Travel Safety Tips for Pets Frontal Car Crash with Unbelted Passengers The Seatbelt Song for Kids

Looking for something fun to do in the area this weekend? We’ve got a great roundup of Halloween events and festive seasonal fun for kids, teens, and adults!  Got an event you think our readers would love? Let us know in the comments or leave a link to your event on our social media post! more Friday, October 28th, swing on by the Tractor Supply in Antioch for Face Painter/Gore Makeup sessions with professional makeup artist Sue Nolan. Book your slot for a 30 minute session online here. Friday, October 28th from 11AM to 2PM in Libertyville, come on down for a town wide Trick or Treat down Main Street! Friday, October 28th at the Shiloh Center in Zion, everyone is welcome to join in the festivities for the Halloween Trail of Treats from 4PM to 6PM! Saturday, October 29th from 1PM to 2:30PM at Bowen Park, join the Waukegan Park District’s Halloween Trick or Treat Trail event for families!  Come out in costume and meet a seasonal cast of characters along the way while gathering prizes and treats! Saturday, October 29th starting at 12PM, families and kids can enjoy a wonderful afternoon of Halloween crafting and art making at Dandelion Gallery and Studio in Waukegan. Saturday, October 29th from 10AM to 3PM, The Highland Park Public Library is hosting the Halloween Railroad event! Saturday, October 29th through Monday October 31st  is T rick or Treat Weekend at the Lake Bluff Public Library from 10AM to 9PM in Lake Bluff where kids, teens, and adults are all encouraged to attend in costume and stop by the front desk for a treat! Saturday, October 29th at the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce & Industry annual trick or treat event from 11AM to 1PM, everyone is encouraged to come out and trick or treat at the local shops and businesses! Saturday, October 29th is Haunted Night at the Lehmann Mansion in Lake Villa from 5PM to 10PM. There will be games, food, drinks, a live DJ, and even an axe thrower! Saturday, October 29th from 1AM to 5PM at Lambs Farm in Libertyville is a special family friendly halloween event where the kiddos can trick-or-treat alongside their favorite farm animals and enjoy other festive fun! Sunday, October 30th at 12PM until 1PM, come and j oin Jarrett Dapier as he reads his picture book aloud at Madame ZuZu’s in Highland Park! Costumes are encouraged as there will be a costume contest along with the storytime. Sunday, October 30th in Wauconda is the Wauconda Chamber of Commerce Trick or Treat on Main Street event from 1PM to 5PM! Come one, come all, and enjoy the costumed event and get into the halloween spirit! Sunday, October 30th at Maggiano’s of Vernon Hills come out and join in the fun for a night of Murder and Mystery at this interactive dinner party starting at 6PM!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. First recognized in October of 1985, Breast Cancer Awareness month aims to increase early detection of this disease and help vulnerable populations by sharing resources to care and prevention techniques. more Many people wear pink articles of clothing or add pink ribbons to their outfits, bags, and even digital profiles in honor of those fighting breast cancer, lost to the disease, and also to support progress we’ve made in breast cancer research and treatment options. Now more than ever, it is important that we expand our conversation to include more demographics so we can work together as a community and empower as many people as we can with accurate information and care. Unfortunately, many breast cancer awareness narratives have historically left out critical talking points inclusive care options.   Although breast cancer is most commonly associated with cisgender women, with statistics showing 1 in 8 cisgender women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, but nonbinary individuals, the transgender community, and cisgender men also are affected by breast cancer.  In fact, many transgender women show increased risk of breast cancer after several years of hormonal treatments, while transgender men show slightly lower risk than cisgender women ac cording to a study from BMJ in the UK. Because we care about our friends, family, and our community in general, we have created this helpful gender inclusive guide to help learn more about Breast Cancer prevention and diagnosis. Reminder: It is important to be gender inclusive when speaking about the issues of breast cancer, to help avoid triggering feelings of dysphoria, or preventing individuals from receiving lifesaving care and cancer treatments.  If you are seeking gender inclusive care for medical and non-medical services, Apicha CHC may be able to help. Mammographies are the best method of early detection, but self-exams are also an important part of screening for breast cancer that you can do at home regularly. Medical professionals encourage you to do a self-exam of the chest region once per month, to check for any signs of abnormality.  Understanding how your body feels and looks on a regular basis can help you recognize abnormalities for your body, and when there might be a change that warrants a visit to your physician. Here is a resource for a proper self-examination procedure. Recommended guidelines for Breast Cancer Screening for Cisgender Women at Average Risks All cisgender women should be performing self-exams at home on a regular basis. Mammograms or Breast Tomosynthesis (3D Mammography) are recommended: Every year starting at age 40-54 for as long as a woman is in good health With doctor’s approval, every 2 years starting ages 55-74. Clinical Breast Exams are recommended every 1 to 3 years from ages 25 through 39, and yearly starting at age 40. If you have implants, it is important that you tell the technician prior to your mammogram. The machine must be adjusted to get the proper imaging of the natural breast tissue, and special positioning may be required. Mammography images will also be increased to four views of each breast instead of two. Please consult with your doctor if there is a history of breast cancer, as your provider may wish to start exams earlier or with greater frequency as a precaution. Recommended Guidelines for Breast Cancer Screening for the Transgender Community Transgender women often have a high prevalence of dense breast tissue, which is a risk for breast cancer, and may also lead to increased rates of false negative mammograms. Transgender women over the age of 50 who have been receiving hormonal treatments for 5+ years should receive an annual mammogram. If you have implants, it is important that you tell the technician prior to your mammogram. The machine must be adjusted to get the proper imaging of the natural breast tissue, and special positioning may be required. Mammography images will also be increased to four views of each breast instead of two. Transgender men receiving hormonal treatments may be at increased risk of breast cancer due to estrogen levels; excess testosterone can be converted to estrogen, therefore presenting an increased risk.  Even if the patient has received top surgery, the remaining breast tissue is susceptible to cancer. Transgender men who have received chest reconstructive surgery should receive annual chest wall and axillarty exams starting at age 50.  Transgender men who have received chest reductions may still wish to have annual mammograms at 50 as well, and should consult with their physician.  Transgender men who have not had any top surgery or chest reconstructive procedures should follow the same guidelines as cis gender women. Please consult with your doctor if there is a family history of breast cancer, as your provider may wish to start exams earlier than age 50 as a precaution. Click here to learn more about Hormone Therapy and Breast Cancer Risks in the Transgender Community. Recommended Guidelines for Breast Cancer Screening for Cisgender Men In general, a man’s average risk for breast cancer is very low, however the following things can increase a man’s risk: Family history of breast disease or genetic mutation Ages 65 and up Elevated levels of Estrogen Lifestyle factors such as obesity, lack of physical activity, alcoholism, etc. Like women, men should also be performing breast exams to become familiarized with the feel of the breast and chest wall tissue.  Mammograms for men are not routine, and may be difficult to perform due to general lack of tissue, but a doctor may recommend the procedure for men with the genetic mutation. In addition to a physical exam, doctors may wish to perform the following procedures if breast cancer is suspected in cisgender male patients: Clinical breast exam Mammography Ultrasound Biopsy For a full and extensive list of Breast Cancer resources for all genders, nationalities, ethnicities, and religious groups - click here.

Looking for an exciting new place to visit this summer on a family road trip? In just half a day's drive you can be on your way to exploring one of the great American traditions: The Kentucky Derby and world of competitive horse racing! On today's post, we're sharing our picks for great places to visit in Lexington and Louisville Kentucky and the surrounding areas. You'll find plenty of history, horseback riding, and great food and drink in “Horse County” Kentucky! Check out our travel guide and start plotting the Summer vacation of your dreams today, or plan ahead for a visit later this year. Our Picks for Seriously Cool Things to Explore in Lexington and Louisville of Kentucky Lexington was founded as a city by the frontiersman and explorer William McConnell, about 17 years before Kentucky was ratified into statehood. It was named thus after word reached their encampment that the first battle of the American Revolutionary War had been fought in Lexington, Massachusetts. The settlers wanted to honor this iconic moment in American History, and named the settlement in kind. Book a public or private tour at one more more locations out of the 30+ Horse Stables, Farms, and Tracks in the Lexington Area via "Horse Country" Tours or one of these other organizations. Kentucky Horse Park is an incredible destination for horse lovers of all ages to tour the museum, walk about the facilities, learn about horse breeds, and even take a horseback ride or carriage ride. The activities, lectures, workshops, and presentations are educational and fun! You can even enjoy a weekend of camping for a taste of the great outdoors! Attend a race, learn about horses, or just enjoy the chance to explore the grounds on a tour of Keeneland, a National Historic Landmark. A destination for all things Horse Country, you'll have an opportunity to pet horses or ride one, purchase locally made goods, and enjoy some prime fine dining, among other fun activities! The Mary Todd Lincoln House is the childhood home of iconic American Political figure and spouse of President Lincoln Mary Todd Lincoln. The home has been converted into a 14 room museum and historic home open for tours, exhibitions, and lectures. See Kentucky like you've never seen it before with a Zipline Canopy Tour through Kentucky River Palisades with Viator. Why not spend a lovely day with your family enjoying the fresh air and local food and a one-of-a-kind dining experience by booking a Private Picnic with Goats for breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. We guarantee you'll get some “instagrammable” moments and iconic family photos like never before! The Arboretum at the University of Kentucky is a beautiful and budget friendly activity for all ages. Your the grounds from dawn to dusk with absolutely free admission in this 100 acre public garden and horticultural displays on the campus grounds. Louisville was founded in 1778 by George Rogers Clark, and named after King Louis XVI of France after his assistance during the Revolutionary War; it's also known as “Falls City” as relates to its position on the Falls of the Ohio. It's now known as the home of the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Fried Chicken, home of legendary boxer Mohammed Ali, and of course the famous Louisville Slugger Baseball Bats! The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville is an award winning museum and multicultural center devoted to preserving the legacy and history of Louisville native and champion athlete Muhammad Ali. Check out the exhibits, galleries and presentations to learn more about his life and legacy. The Saint James Court Art Show and Fair in Old Louisville returns annually in October! The Conrad Caldwell House Museum in Louisville is an incredible historic home from the Victorian Era that's open to touring year round, and also hosts programs, events, and rotating exhibitions! The Louisville Mega Cavern is a true wonder to behold and great for explorers of all ages for walking tours, tram rides, as well as zip-line adventures! The Derby Museum in Louisville offers visitors of all ages a look into the history and tradition of the Kentucky Derby event! You'll also have an opportunity to meet Thoroughbreds, Miniature horses, and even create some horse themed artwork. It's a blast for the whole family! Sportsfans will delight in a tour of the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory and the Bourbon Tasting Room experience located next door! Explore the tastes of the South with a tour along the Urban Bourbon Trail of Louisville by exploring distilleries and breweries of craft brews and bourbons! The Waterfront Park at Louisville is a non-profit public park meant to connect residents and visitors with their neighbours, serve as a community hub, and central meeting point for folks from all walks of life! Enjoy fundraiser events, waterfront yoga classes, kids and family camps, Pokemon meet-ups, the yearly lantern festival flea markets and craft fairs, 5ls, bike racing and so much more all year round. The Frazier History Museum in Louisville offers a wonderful look into the local culture and tradition of Kentucky. Explore local history with a series of current and upcoming exhibitions highlighting historic neighbourhoods, iconic moments in US history, local artisans and artwork, and even regional food and beverage. Short on time or just passing through on the way to your next adventure? Here's a crash course plan for exploring the best of Louisville, Kentucky in 24 hours! A 3-hour drive along the Kentucky Scenic Byway makes a great detour and day trip for those who enjoy a scenic drive with plenty of overlooks and stop-offs for photo opportunities. The 71/2 mile stretch of Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway runs from Hodgenville through New Haven, Bardstown, Springfield, Perryville, Danville and more as you drive along the Mississippi. Take a drive along the Bluegrass, Blues and BBQ Byway on a tour of Kentucky! Amazing Eateries and Distilleries to Check out in the Lexington and Louisville area: Dudley’s on Short in Lexington Carson’s Food & Drink in Lexington Tony’s of Lexington Josie’s Restaurant in Lexington Pies & Pints in Lexington The Social Vegan in Lexington Moody Mike’s in Lexington Mellow Mushroom Lexington Sahara Mediterranean Cuisine Lexington Minton’s in Lexington Oasis Mediterranean restaurant Lexington Lussi Brown Coffee Bar in Lexington Graze in Lexington Barzeiros Brazillian Steakhouse in Louisville Vincenzo's in Louisville Proof on Main in Louisville Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville Prohibition Craft Spirits Copper & Kings Louisville Brough Brothers Distillery Louisville Angel’s Envy Distillery in Louisville Old Forester Distilling Co in Louisville Check out these videos for more great travel tips: Top Ten Things to Do in Lexington Kentucky Kentucky Top 10: Travel Guide for Louisville and Lexington 15 Things to Do in Louisville Kentucky

Today is Shark Awareness Day, a holiday created by marine biologists and scientists to dispel fear, myths, and misinformation around these incredible ocean dwelling creatures. Check out our post today to learn all about these amazing creatures, local aquariums where you can see them up close and personal, and other fun facts. more Here at Classic Auto Group, we're thrilled to not only be doing our part to move towards sustainability and protect these creatures, but we're honored to sell vehicles from brand manufacturers that have committed to the same! Thanks to combined conservation efforts, these majestic sea dwelling predators will continue to thrive in their watery worlds for many years to come. We hope that global conservation organizations and research teams will continue to find ways to care for and protect our oceans, and sharks will be around for hundreds of years more. If exploring the open ocean in person doesn't seem quite your style, you may wish to adventure more safely to these local aquariums! May all the budding marine biologists in our mist become inspired by outreach programs and in-person exhibits. Here are some wonderful facilities that are worth visiting this summer with your family and friends: The Shedd Aquarium in Chicago is home to more than 20 sharks in its 400,000 gallon habitat! You'll find Blacktip Reef Sharks, Sandbar Sharks, Japanese and Spotted Wobbegongs, Zebra Sharks, Bamboo Sharks, Bonnethead Sharks, Horn Sharks, Dogfish, Leopard Sharks, and Swell Sharks! The field scientists of Shedd Aquarium are working tirelessly on conservation efforts, and currently conducting research in the Caribbean to learn about how to best safeguard these majestic ocean predators. Seven Seas at the Brookfield Zoo in Riverside has a wonderful aquarium feature with gorgeous bottlenose dolphins as their star attraction. It's also been home to two types the Horn Shark and the Leopard Shark, and has played home to a rotating cast of characters from the deep blue sea over the years! Oceans of Fun in Milwaukee County Zoo in Milwaukee is host to a 28,000 gallon Pacific Coast Marine Aquarium featuring gorgeous landscaped habitats and touch-a-ray displays. It has been home to White-Spotted Bamboo Sharks and Bonnethead Sharks along with Sting Rays, and an ever-changing cast of creatures. Reiman Aquarium at Discovery World in Milwaukee has a many wonderful exhibits exploring all sorts of aquatic and marine life, and has highlighted several species of shark in the past, including a previous installation touch-tank experience with bamboo sharks! A visit to their Facebook page also explains how the staff helps train and feed the animals. National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium in Dubuque, IA is a pinnacle research center and museum associated with the Smithsonian Institution that helps connect visitors with the importance of the Mississippi River. Their “Rivers to the Sea 2.0” exhibit explains how major waterways across the US contribute to larger environmental and biological effects. You'll learn about aquatic environments and the different species that live in each, and even get to learn about how Great White Sharks breed. The facilities offer outreach programs to the Midwest including a mobile shark touch tank, and the Conservation Lab provides virtual and physical labs to connect folks with research and exhibits. Do you ever find yourself wondering how these incredible animals get transported from aquarium to aquarium or from rehabilitation centers back to the ocean? This is an incredible article from a few years back on aquatic transport that explains exactly that! Special transports and vehicles are needed to move aquatic animals around the world, and as automotive aficionados we find the whole ordeal really interesting! How Do Sharks Get to Georgia Aquarium: Moving A Shark into Audubon Aquarium: Have some budding marine biologists or automotive afficionados in your midst? Check out these amazing options in toys for young minds that will inspire them to connect with sharks and other sea creatures and protect their environments. Fisher-Price Go Diego Go Shark Rescue Car Animal Planet Shark Rescue Transport Truck Matchbox Marine Rescue Shark Ship

If you’ve ever taken a car ride with kids, you know it’s almost always a “bumpy ride” so to speak.  With the advent of Summer, that means lots more trips: to the beach, to grandma’s, to the cabin, to the world’s biggest ball of yarn, etc etc.  And that means lots more need to keep the little ones entertained so you can arrive to your destination with minimal nerves frazzled. more Every parent or caregiver knows that long car rides can be a test of patience and strength when it comes to traveling with your children. But we’re here to help ease the stress with great options for keeping your kids too busy for them to argue, bicker, or ask “ are we there yet?” for the 100th time! Our content today is a fun car post filled to the brim with activities and entertainment for your whole family while on the road. We’ve also got a list of great games for playing at your hotel, campsite, or vacation home.  And as always, feel free to drop your suggestions in the comments and it might make it into a future blog post. Families will love bonding with classic card games like Memory, Go Fish, Spoons, and more with the National Parks Playing cards, and parents will feel great knowing that funds from each sale of the minimalist Playing Card Deck go into helping fund America’s National Parks System.  Their bright geometric designs make them an eye catching delight to any games collection. Making a roadside stop for the night or looking to give the kids a screen break in the RV? Take a load off and enjoy the Parks Board Game. It’s a fun game for the whole family, and also a great strategy game with an educational twist about our National Parks system. This National Parks Travel Edition for Yahtzee is perfect for planes, trains, and automobiles!  Families will love this update featuring icons and imagery of some familiar National Landmarks in the Parks System with unlimited hours of family game night fun. National Geographic Kids Ultimate U.S. Road Trip Atlas is jam packed with games, maps, activities, and facts to entertain kiddos on any car trip.  It’s also a great way to get kids involved in vacation planning, as there are lots of iconic stops and sites listed.  Try letting your kids suggest a point on the map for your next getaway! The Road Trip Travels and Activity Journal for Kids has a plethora of more than 100 Games, Mazes, Mad Libs, Scavenger Hunts, Word Searches, and so much more.  There’s also fun prompts to get your kids engaged with the road trip experience by writing about what they see and how they feel, and log their family memories.  It’s a wonderful alternative to screen time and allows them to connect with creativity. The 50 States: Explore the USA book is perfect for family fun time in the car.  Take turns reading out facts about each state, or hone in on the one you’re visiting and see how many places you've been!  It’s also a great way to begin orienting your kids to using maps, and familiarizing themselves with US locations and historic sites. National Parks of the USA is a wonderful illustrated book that details all of the beauty and wonder of America’s great National Park system.  Kids will love learning about landmarks, geography, wildlife, and plants of each area.  It’s perfect for history and nature enthusiasts alike.  The bright, colorful, and bold illustrations are captivating for all ages, making it a great activity to share between siblings. Follow That Map! Is a wonderful introduction for kids to navigating a physical map. In the age of GPS technology, reading a map is no longer a typically acquired skill, but it’s important nonetheless.  Kids can gain a better understanding of how to use a map’s key features and icons, and learn how to chart a trip or hike with this basic guide.

Today is Take Your Pet to Work Day!  So we thought it would be helpful to highlight a few safety tips for traveling with your furry friend in the car and on the road.  These tips and tricks will keep your pets healthy and secure on all of your adventures, be they commuting to the office or away on a vacation.  Check it out! more Always travel with ample water to ensure that you and your pet can remain hydrated and cool down in event of excess heat and extreme weather conditions.  In some cases, you can even include a small towel to saturate with cool water to help your dog stay cool. It’s tempting to keep your dog in your lap for company, or to allow them to roam in the car instead of howling or whining anxiously in the back, but it’s extremely important to keep them secured and safe.  Not only are roaming dogs a distraction for drivers, but it can cause a pet unnecessary injury or death should your vehicle become involved in an accident. The safest place for your pet is secured in the backseat in a pet-safe seatbelt harness or pet friendly car seat, or secured in the cargo area. If your dog gets car sickness and vomits, you can avoid that situation by having the dog travel on an empty stomach, and keep them secured in their seat so they will settle and rest. For dogs that are nervous or excitable about car travel, having your dog practice by letting them sit in the car with you in the driveway, followed by short drives of increasing length around the local area can help get them accustomed to the feeling. Keep your car well ventilated while driving, but don’t allow your pet to hang out of any open windows or hatchbacks. Dogs have been known to jump out of windows and be placed in peril on busy highways, or leap out of them in parking lots or spotlights and go missing.  Cracking the window only enough so they cannot fit their head through, or aiming air conditioning/heating vents in their direction is best. On lengthy car trips, be sure to stop and allow your pet exercise every few hours and plan in some water and potty breaks in a dog-friendly area to reduce accidents as well as anxiety. Never leave your pet alone in a parked vehicle. No matter whether it’s just for a moment, or if the windows are cracked, your pet should never be left by their lonesome in the car. In fact, as of May 2018, 28 different states have laws to protect animals left in a vehicle, especially when parked in dangerous conditions such as intense heat or cold, or parked in direct sunlight, etc.  Law enforcement may reserve the right to forcibly enter the vehicle to rescue the animal. A Car can be 20 degrees hotter inside than the outside ambient temperature, meaning even on a 70 degree day that feels lovely outside? Your vehicle can reach a dangerous high of 90 degrees in the interior, even with the window cracked.  On an 85 degree day, your car’s temperature will climb above 100 degrees in mere minutes, and within half an hour it will be an unbearable 120 degrees!  Shady spots do not offer efficient heat protection on hot days and as the sun shifts, so will the direct sunlight. Pets who are overweight, in their senior years, have special medical needs, and those with very dark coats are extra susceptible to the risk of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.Remember that Flat Faced Dogs and Cats are extremely susceptible to heat stroke, as their flat nasal and mouth cavities prevent their ability to properly breathe and cool themselves.  They cannot pant properly, and what appears to be “stubbornness” may in fact be exhaustion and early signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke! Ensure that your animal has a proper grooming and haircut for the summer months and warm weather.  Be sure to bring your pet to an experienced groomer for a trim, but be sure that they don’t fully shave them down to their skin unless medically necessary to prevent sunburn. Know the signs and symptoms of overheating in your pet.  These signs can include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, excessive drooling, weakness and wobbling, dazed or confused behavior, and even fainting.  Extreme heat can cause seizures, diarrhea, vomiting, and elevated body temperatures. Do not walk your pet on pavement or asphalt without proper foot protection for their paw pads; ambient temperatures above 65 degrees can already cause physical burns and discomfort as well as irreparable damage due to the fact that roadways, concrete, and rocks will be even hotter. This helpful information from the AKC will explain safe temperatures for pets and when footwear is necessary. CNET’s Smart Tips for Keeping Your Pet Safe in the Car: Teach Your Dog to Get Into the Car: 5 Items to Have with you When Driving with Your Pet:

Ways To Make Your Vehicle More Accessible We love sharing posts about car gadgets and gizmos that help make transportation and travel a breeze.  Today’s post, however, is sharing car tech from a different perspective, and we think it’s a truly vital one. If you’re a non-disabled person, chances are you may not have thought about how modern day to day activities may not be accessible to folks with disabilities or health concerns.  Today we’re going to shed some light on the subject, and show you how modern vehicles can be adapted for a wide variety of accessibility needs. more If you are a friend, spouse, or caregiver who is looking to provide adaptive driving aids and accessibility modifications to your vehicle, we’ve got a great list of pointers to get you started on that path. Likewise, if you're a disabled person looking for resources on accessible items and mobility aids for transportation and driving, we’ve got you covered as well.  We have done our best to include product suggestions and accessibility companies.  If you have recommendations for an accessible product that you have found useful for your travel needs, we’d love for you to share it in the comments section! Before we dive into that topic, there are a few important reminders we wish to share regarding disability, accessibility and traveling with disabled individuals: Persons of any age, race, ethnicity, or demographic can have a disability, and not all disabilities are visible. Babies, Children, Teens and Adults may have accessibility requirements.  Be mindful. Updated terminology guidelines from disability activists and disability organizations advise that “disabled individual/person” and “person with a disability” are the preferred language for references instead of “differently-abled” or “special needs” or “challenged” etc. Mobility and accessibility aids are actually more common than you think!  Contact Lenses, Eyeglasses, hearing aids, and even speakerphone features are all commonly used mobility aids that assist common disabilities and chronic health issues. Wheelchairs, walkers, and other adaptive devices are more common than you’d realize. When traveling with disabled or chronically ill individuals, please ensure that you call ahead to your venues, destinations, or meeting places to inquire about accommodations and access for mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers, canes, etc.)  If a destination is not accessible, it is best to inform your disabled companion and/or their caregiver in advance so that arrangements can be made or you can coordinate together for alternate plans. People who use mobility devices may require additional space or to board transportation first for easy navigation; please give them the same space and respect you would for non-disabled passengers. It is never okay to touch or lean on a person’s wheelchair or mobility aid, or to touch a person’s body in any way without their explicit consent. Physical impairment or illness does not automatically mean someone necessarily has a mental impairment as well; treat people with disabilities with the same respect as you’d speak to non-disabled folks.   Please address disabled people directly, instead of speaking around them to any companions or aides with them. Follow disabled creators, activists, and individuals on social media, and listen to what they have to say.  Learning from first-hand experiences and observing accessibility feedback from the community is an important step in crafting a more inclusive society. Accessible Features to Look for When Purchasing a Vehicle Keyless Entry enables caregivers and disabled passengers easy access to opening the car doors instead of fumbling with keys. Electric Locks, windows, and child-safety door features are all great options;  Electric windows ensure that people can easily control their environment as needed for temperature control.  Electronic locks and child-safety door locks can prevent elderly dementia patients from unexpectedly opening a door on a moving vehicle. Easy-Access to Large Cargo Capacity is helpful for stowing equipment and mobility aids such as foldable wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and medical necessities. Higher Seats allow those with disabilities and mobility aids easier entry and exit when getting into a vehicle instead of excessive bending or twisting of lower seating. Electric Seats allow for more room for passengers in the backseat when entering or exiting the vehicle, and the ability to recline front or back seats for users who need to lie back to swing their legs into the car easily. Heat/AC in the seats can be helpful for those with physical impairments or chronic illness by providing Bluetooth Connectivity and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are among the modern hands-free amenities that can be assistive devices for those with hearing impairments, mobility aids, and other needs, as well as providing additional communication methods for all disabled persons. Electronic park assist and cameras are helpful in navigating parking lots and street parking to ensure you leave enough room for mobility aids, ramps, and other equipment.  In addition, it also helps drivers  ensure they have properly secured mobility aids and medical equipment, and prevent backing over any equipment you may have unloaded in the driveway, parking space, or curb prior to parking How To Make a Vehicle More Accessible: Adaptive Driving Equipment Turning Automotive Seats - Mobility aid companies can retrofit your vehicle with a mechanized seat that rotates for the driver or front seat passenger to get in and out of their vehicle safely.  This provides ambulatory wheelchair users an easier option for entering and exiting the vehicle, and provides those with other mobility aids a less stressful option than bending, twisting, or crouching to get into the front seats. Wheelchair and Scooter Carriers  and Wheelchair Securement - These devices function similarly to bicycle carriers, but are designed to withstand the weight and shape of mobility aids such as wheelchairs, power chairs, and scooters.  They will ensure a person’s equipment is safely stowed and secured on the vehicle’s exterior. Car Transfer Aids - Seats like the the Slide ‘n’ Ride are adjustable, compact assistive devices that allow passengers to transfer from walker or wheelchair to car seat more safely. Assist Bars and straps- Items like the Able Life Auto Cane are portable support handles and standing mobility aids to assist with entering/exiting a vehicle. The Stander CarCaddie Adjustable Support Strap i s just one of many options for non-slip grip support for more stability when exiting and entering a vehicle. Swivel Seats - These portable, removable cushions are a great way to provide accessibility for guest passengers who are coming along for special events or outings. The HealthSmart 360 Swivel Seat cushion can help reduce hip, knee, and back strain experienced by getting in and out of seats.  Swiveling seats allow your passenger more mobility and independence to exit the vehicle comfortably. Scooter and Wheelchair Lifts - Companies can customize a special lift to accommodate disabled individuals who need to stay seated in their wheelchair or scooter, or to provide those who have transferred to a seat a safer way to load their equipment into a vehicle. Models such as Conversion Vans and large SUVs work best, but there may be additional options available. Ramps for Vehicles - This can provide wheelchair users with more accessibility and less issues with needing to transfer from wheelchair to their seat.  It is a good option for those who cannot afford a wheelchair or scooter lift, allowing more access without permanent or costly changes.  You will need to verify your vehicle’s weight limits, make/model for size, and the equipment used by the disabled individual, and we recommend consulting with a mobility aid company. We know that when it comes to accessibility, there is no one-size-fits all solution.  When comes to personal travel and daily driver cars, you should be free to select the equipment that best works for each individual need. If you are looking for additional information or resources, you may visit The Mobility Resource for more information on how to acquire Adaptive Driving Equipment or even find assistance to locate an accessible vehicle in your area. And of course we recommend you consult with a doctor, caregiver, or therapist to find the best options for your or your loved ones needs.

Today we’re sharing great ideas for families who have young car enthusiasts in their midst.  From playtime to quiet time we’ve got lots to keep your kiddos entertained and excited.  These suggestions are great for every day play or for holiday gift giving.  We’ve chosen lots of activities for kids to work on together with parents, friends or siblings, or for independent play and reading time! more You’ll love our fun car themed post today!  And who knows, if they’re really well behaved  after all, perhaps Santa will deliver some of these under the tree this year.  Check it out our picks and get ready for a family fun night together with lots of hands-on, screen-off time for everyone. The R&T Crew Subscription box kit is perfect for kids who love things that GO GO GO! Priced at $225 a year it’s a steal!  You’ll get monthly automotive themed boxes full of puzzles, toys, and STEM inspired activities.  It’s great for the whole family! This Take Apart Racing toy is a STEM focused activity with a real working drill, lots of fun sounds, and flashing lights. With two different car options to choose from: Sporty or Luxury Style.  Great for little engineers who love to take things apart and reassemble, but without the mess of broken household items for just $29.99 For the littlest car fan in your fam, why not grab the Kids Picture Show Vehicles board book! It’s also available in digital for parents on the go with tablets and e-readers.  Both copies are just $7.99 apiece! Blippi’s Things That Go book is perfect for long car rides or bedtime wind down.  The digital version is just $2.99 for e-readers and tablets, and the paperback is $5. Full of fun and exciting photos and colourful pictures. The Playz V8 Combustion Engine model has an incredible STEM centered focus for families and older kids.  Learn how to put together the timing belt, cylinder heads, pistons, spark plugs, and connect the wires.  The included DIY Guide shows your little budding mechanic how it all works!  Great for older kids with inquisitive minds.  Priced reasonably at $69.95 for the educational and entertainment value provided! Pica Toys Solar Car Stem Build Kit gives your child an opportunity to build a remote control car from the ground up!  It’s an electric and solar powered hybrid toy they’ll get hours of joy from, and feel proud at their hard work!.  For $39.99 it’s a real deal! Kraftic Woodworking Building Kit for Kids with DIY Carpentry and practical life skills.  It’s an invaluable tool for your children to learn young or old, and a bargain price for $36.99!  Plus, once assembled, there’s plenty of opportunity to paint and design the cars in custom colors.  Or disassemble them and put them back together over and over! It’s hours of fun for pennies. And perfect for families with multiple kids to do together! If you’ve got kids, you’ve probably got buckets upon buckets of LEGOs hanging around.  Why not give your kids creations a place to GO GO GOOOO! The LEGO City Road Plates are an excellent addition to any builder’s collection.  They can race to their hearts delight and build the bustling metropolitan of their dreams!  A Great deal at $19.99 per set with 112 pieces included. If you’ve got a voracious reader, we bet they’ll love the Slide or Die Driftx illustrated novel series. It’s available on digital or print edition. Great for comic book enthusiasts and manga fans, and even the gamers who love car videogames. The Car by Gary Paulsen is another wonderful choice for your race loving readers with a fierce sense of independence.  It’s the perfect blend of automotive interests with a little bit of drama and adventure.  It’s available on digital or in print.

Get ready for gift giving season with another handy guide for Gearheads!  We love everything about the items on this list, because they’re all quite useful gifts.  They’re excellent options for the person who prefers practical over frivolous. more Check it out!  We’ve got wearables and useables all on today’s gift guide. Wear Your Passion For Cars on Your Sleeve Fingerless Leather Driving Gloves from The Outlierman, $226.37 Sleek. Sophisticated. Stylish. Top of the line in gift giving for someone special! Riparo Men’s Genuine Leather Full Finger Riding Gloves, $59.96-129.97 Slightly less expensive than the previously mentioned gloves, but still snazzy Heavy Duty Synthetic Mechanic’s Gloves, $14.43-$29.73 Perfect for those who love to do the work and get hands-on in the garage, and rough, tough, and messy instead of hitting the road with a set of fancy driving gloves. Eat Sleep Drive Repeat Short-Sleeve Tee, $24 Got a passionate gearhead in your midst who eats, sleeps, and breathes all things automotive?  Why not get them a shirt that proclaims their love loud and proud and in your face!  It’s a great conversation starter for casual hangouts and parties. Vintage Doin Donuts Drift Hoodie, $32 A great option for the gearhead with a sense of humor who fancies themselves a comedian! Build It Tune It Race It Tee, $19.97 Perfect for the Tuner fanatic in  your midst.  For those who love to rally, race, repeat.  Great for wearing out with friends or in the garage fixing and tuning to perfection. Drifting Through the Snow Ugly Sweater, $35.00 Sporty, festive, and sassy!  Could you get a more perfect holiday outfit? We think not. Great Gearhead Gadgets Bluetooth OBDII for iPhone and Android, $119.95 This tiny little tool has unlimited potential.  This scanning tool can help you understand the ins-and-outs of your car without the expensive price tag, and all the convenience of smartphone accessibilities.  Great for the fixit-friend in your gift circle. FIXD OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner Tool for iPhone & Android, $89.99 Slightly less expensive than the previous model on this list, but just as portable and useful.  Compatible with all vehicles 1996 and up for gas-power, and 2008 and up for diesel fueled vehicles. Imazing Portable Car Jump Starter, $79.99 This portable battery booster is a convenient, pocket sized portable jump start kit. It’s an indispensable part of any driver’s emergency car kit. Craftsman Home Tool & Mechanic’s Tool Kit 57pcs, $53.00 This kit is a steal and its 57 pieces cost less than $1 per each, but it’s an invaluable part of any budding mechanic’s kit!  Craftsman is a name you can trust with valued industry experience.  They’re durable, convenient, accessible, and portable.