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As a leader in electrification, Toyota’s introduction of bZ4X represents the first of a global series of battery-electric vehicles to be introduced under the global “Toyota bZ” brand umbrella. Once the rubber hits the road, bZ4X will have a manufacturer-estimated range of up to 250 miles for XLE front-wheel drive models. EPA-estimated range rating of up to 252 miles per charge for XLE FWD Bold, SUV design with premium finishes Impressive AWD capability with X-MODE ® system Accelerating Toyota’s global commitment toward carbon neutrality Learn more about it! more Toyota is charged and ready to showcase the all-electric 2023 bZ4X. The SUV is packed to the brim with stunning features and electrification capabilities, making electrified driving easier than ever. “The bZ4X all-electric SUV is the total package in terms of innovative design and advanced technology, meticulously engineered to make electrification easier.”said Lisa Materazzo, group vice president, Toyota Marketing, Toyota Motor North America. About the 2023 Toyota bZ4X As a leader in electrification, Toyota’s introduction of the 2023 bZ4X represents the first of a global series of battery-electric vehicles to be introduced under the global “Toyota bZ” brand umbrella. “bZ,” which stands for “Beyond Zero,” is Toyota’s vision to reach beyond carbon neutrality with products, services, and operations; and find new ways to make a positive impact on the planet and society. Toyota is committed to helping reduce carbon emissions by giving customers 15 electrified vehicles for customers to choose from, including 11 hybrid models, two plug-in hybrid models, the all-electric bZ4X battery electric vehicle, and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric Mirai (currently available in California). Offered in two grades – XLE and Limited – the futuristic design of the bZ4X is sleek, functional, and powerful – and is available at dealerships now. Key features include: EPA-estimated range rating of up to 252 miles per charge for XLE FWD Bold, SUV design with premium finishes Available AWD with X-MODE ® system Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities Grip-Control for off-road performance Toyota Safety Sense safety package (TSS 3.0) Compatible with high-output chargers worldwide Front-seat radiant foot-and-leg heater (first for Toyota) Panoramic roof Information provided by Toyota Newsroom and Manufacturer Press Releases

Nowadays, comics and cartoon imagery have become such a wonderful part of our daily lives, from newspaper pages to social media memes to print comics and digital subscription books.  They’ve even become ubiquitous parts of pop culture thanks to big screen adaptations from publishing houses like Marvel and DC.  What was once an obscure hobby reserved for “nerds'' and collectors is now extremely popular all across the globe!  In fact, there’s plenty of arguments in the positive on why we should be further encouraging young readers to explore comics and graphic novels. more Comics are for everyone: The Wonderful Benefits of Reading Graphic Novels and Comic Books! Graphic Novels/Comics are often quite helpful for children with learning difficulties and disabilities; short sentence structure, easy-to-read sentences, and interpreting illustrations with the accompanying visual and text cues help them derive context from the words on the page. Children with sensory processing disorders are able to learn how to identify and describe emotions through imagery which allow them to better process gestures, facial expressions, visual cues, and imagining themselves performing those actions.  This helps not just their reading comprehension, but their ability to understand social dynamic and interpersonal communication. Structured visual cues and exaggerated body language/facial expressions helps younger readers understand and interpret stories and become a better reader. Comics allow readers to be more immersed in the storytelling and emotional experience, by providing additional emphasis on satire, symbolism, humor, and more in ways that text alone is unable to provide. Children may learn many more complex vocabulary words from comic books, as comics have on average more rare words per thousand than adult books; giving a child who needs more advanced reading level some graphic novels and comic books will challenge them much more than books for older readers/adults. Younger readers may be more inclined to explore new avenues in life and devise more creative ways of communicating, thus opening them up to new skills and gaining “superpowers” of their own by exploring the visual arts, reading and even STEM activities. It’s a great way for newcomers to any language to get a better understanding and grasp of a second language thanks to the sentence structure and visual dynamics. They’re a great travel-friendly option in reading materials thanks to many issues being pocket sized like mangas, luggage friendly such as individual graphic novels, or even digital subscriptions on your e-readers, phones, and tablets. It’s no wonder, then, that Free Comic Book day has grown into something very popular and well-loved by the general pubic. New to Free Comic Book Day? Allow us to explain! Free Comic Book day is an annual event meant to encourage new readers of comics and graphic novels, as well as helping local small comic shop businesses keep the lights on.  Thanks to its popularity, what once originated as a North American only event, the Free Comic Book Day movement has expanded to a global audience! Folks can use a helpful webform their postal code or address to find a US or Canadian based shop, or click the link to find global resources. Free Comic Book Day is almost here, and we’ve compiled a great list of local area comic shops in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin for you to visit and get your super special collectible issues and freebies! Most of the promotional issues for freebies, discounted items, and special edition comics will be available in print form only, requiring you to visit a local shop to pick up the physical copy.  Copies of free or promotional books will be in limited supply with high demand, so please be patient and kind to local shop owners.  It’s customary to have folks waiting in line for hours prior to opening, so quantities may already be limited beginning fairly early in the day.  Some shops also limit how many freebies a person may get, so you’ll have to select and prioritize your favorites! Let’s check out the local hot spots for comics and cool comics related events happening in the area over the next few months. Jay’s Comics in Grayslake Dreamland Comics in Libertyville Comic Buying Center in Libertyville New Guy in Comics and Collectibles in Winthrop Harbor North Shore Comics in Northbrook Galaxy of Books in Winthrop Harbor Modern Age Comics Inc in Algonquin and Crystal Lake Beyond Tomorrow Comics in Palatine Aw Yeah Comics in Skokie Atlas Comics in Chicago Graham Crackers Comics Loop in Chicago 2nd & Charles in Gurnee Inner Child Comics in Kenosha, WI Comic Alley in Lake Geneva, WI Legendary Comics and Records in Racine, WI Lost World of Wonders in Milwaukee, WI Collector’s Edge Comics South & Collector’s Edge Comics North in Milwaukee, WI Collectors Asylum in Lannon, WI Classic Comics and Collectibles in Glendale, WI Kowabunga Comics in Oconomowoc, W I

The first day of May always has us thinking about beautiful blossoms, fabulous florals, and whimsical wildflowers!  For today’s blog, we’re sharing our picks for fun flower themed car accessories, as well as a list of great local florists so you can purchase your Mother’s Day Bouquets, arrangements for your special day, or just simply to bring home a bit of sunshine in the form of fresh cut flowers.  Check it out! more Great Local Florists Near Waukegan Pope’s Florist & Gifts in Waukegan Flowers For You in Waukegan Larsen Florists & Greenhouses in Waukegan Mundo Infantil Floreria & Dulceria in Waukegan Joseph’s Florist in Libertyville Petal Peddlers in Libertyville Lewis Florist in Grayslake Buss Flower Shop in Libertyville Polly’s Petals Inc in Lake Bluff Twigs in Lake Bluff Flowerama in Mundelein Floral Car Gear for Blooms All Year Round Browse our picks for trendy spring decor to add a little color & personality to your vehicle. Get comfy, cozy, and cute with these trendy and soft fashionable daisy headrest and neck pillows as well as seat belt protectors! Sold from CuteCar Accessories on Etsy. Add a touch of color and a bit of retro chic style with these handmade flower crocheted steering wheel covers and seat belt covers, available from YDM on Amazon. The 90s are back!  Add some fun vintage vibes to your car with these embroidered pastel flowers and channel your inner 90s child. Available on Amazon. Keep your cupholders clean and clear of mess with these resin handmade car coasters with real dried florals and beautiful gold accents. Available on Etsy from BloomingBowtiqueShop. Available in multiple blossom styles and colorways, and your choice of colorful flower pot options, these pocket sized plants are great for your car and you won’t ever have to worry about them wilting! Available from Walbest Store on Amazon. We love these stylish Daisy and music note floor mats that are made to order! Available from GearCarCover.com For those on the road and always go-go-going, we love this portable floral trash can that pops up and attaches to the back of your seat. Available from Natural Life. This bright botanical inspired license plate frame is sure to bring a smile to your face! Available from Natural Life. Store your tissues or maps in this floral fabric visor holder, handmade lovingly and available via HappySew97 on Etsy Add a touch of class to your car with these faux embroidered spring boho seat covers sold by HopewellDesignStudio on Etsy. This delicate wildflower decal adds a touch of springtime sunshine to your ride. Available in BrickroomDesigns shop on Etsy.

Today is Independent Bookstore Day!  Founded in 2013, this day was created to help local residents and their communities connect with indie booksellers to foster a wonderful community of readers!  This year is the 10th anniversary of this special holiday, and we're very excited about it!  Indie bookstores are a great way to support small, local business owners as well as getting to know new authors, creators, and fellow bibliophiles.   Each year on Indie Bookstore Day, a series of unique promotional items, new releases, and special events will be held at your local bookstores and many continue the festivities well on into the weekend. more Many indie bookstores don’t just celebrate today, but they also hold year round special events for book releases, writers workshops, poetry and book readings, author signings, special story hours, and so much more fun to be had! Sure, That Big Online Bookseller may have slashed prices, but can they tailor your “to be read” list specifically to your personal tastes and give top notch recommendations no matter what mood you’re in? Nope! That’s a specialty skill that only your local bookseller will have!  Your local indie bookstores are the place to go for curated reading lists, but they do oh so much more. So what are you waiting for? Stock up on some quality tomes to read on your next road trip or vacation.  Who knows, they may even have the best road trip themed books for your staycations, too!  It never hurts to ask. Great Local area bookstores in Illinois and Wisconsin that are worth the drive and need your support: Sheila Corleone Vanci Book Store in Waukegan IL The Book Bin in Northbrook IL This Old Book in Grayslake IL The Book Stall in Winnetka, IL Lake Forest Bookstore Galaxy of Books in Winthrop Harbor IL The Green Read in Crystal Lake, IL Read Between the Lynes in Woodstock, IL The Book Shop in Batavia IL Town House Books in Charles IL The Bookstore of Glen Ellyn IL Volumes Bookstore in Chicago IL After-Words Bookstore in Chicago IL The Book Cellar in Chicago IL Heirloom Books in Chicago IL Unabridged Bookstore in Chicago IL Blue House Books in Kenosha WI Studio Moonfall Bookstore and Art Studio in Kenosha, WI Reads by the River Books and Gifts in Waterford WI

Comic Book day is just around the corner, but we thought it would be great to get a jump start by celebrating Super Hero Day to get you pumped up and find some exciting comics to look forward to.  Check out our picks for unusually cool vehicles from Superheroes and Comic Books that aren’t the infamous Batmobile!  See how many you know, and make note of your new findings so you can impress your friends later at trivia night. more First up, The Mooncopter from Moon Knight. Thanks to the recent series starring Oscar Isaac, Moon Knight is seeing his day in the era of comic book adaptations on screen.  Moon Knight gets around in his special aircraft, the mooncopter.  It’s first appearance was in “Werewolf By Night #32” released in August of 1975. The mooncopter has some pretty spectacular special features, including silent flight, hovering with no noise, top of the line cannons and rockets, reaching top speeds of 200mph, and it’s even submersible. That’s one impressive vehicle if we ever saw one. Next, we’re taking a look at Catwoman’s super wild Catmobile! Catwoman created her own version of the Batmobile so she could outdo her caped nemesis.  This “Kitty Car” as it was nicknamed, could outrace the Batmobile, was equipped with rocket-jets allowing her to jump short distances, and had a giant cat head in the front. Later on, it was used by her brother as well as a criminal inspired by Catwoman who dubbed himself Cat-Man. Onwards and upwards to the recently resurrected Green Arrow and his vehicles: the Arrowcar and Arrowjet. The arrow shaped vehicle first started off as a car, but transformed into the Arrow Plane and Arrow Orbiter!  The Arrow car is equipped with a special catapult to launch our dear hero into action, as well as being able to fire arrows for backup.  When the vehicle transforms into “The Orbiter” it’s capable of interstellar travel, equipped with laser blasters, and can even generate a wormhole!  Sounds pretty convenient for future traveling, no? Following up our last bizarre concept vehicle is none other than Wonder Woman’s wild Invisible Jet! Created on Paradise Island, originally said to have been transformed from a winged Pegasus by Athena, Diana’s magical and mysterious jet had the power of invisible cloaking abilities, can process her exhaled air into oxygen to extend breathing capabilities for up to 20 minutes, is undetectable by radar and the naked eye, and can shape projectile weapons out of its own material, as well as being able to regenerate!  The concept was later scrapped after just a short run as the writers of her character felt it was a little silly.

As an automotive enthusiast, we’re sure you’ll agree: there’s nothing more satisfying than a well-organized garage!  When all the tools and tidbits you need for your project car are available front and center, right at your fingertips, it makes tune-ups a breeze.  Since today is National Garage Day, we thought it would be fitting to share some great ideas for organizing your gear to make working your garage feel like a dream. On the top of our list for organization are: Cabinets and toolbox carts, pegboard and magnetic tool holders, extension cord storage, and wall or ceiling racks.  We’ve done our due diligence to provide you with various price points to find the best product to fit your finances and needs! more Shelves, Cable/Cord Management, and More We think the Fleximounts Classic 2’x6’ wall shelving system will be a great addition to your garage storage options.  At $150, these powder coated steel shelving pieces will stand the test of time without breaking your bank! Westward offers a great Tool Organizer Panel with magnetic options for holding small tools and specialty small parts!  Each panel is 12”x12”, making it easy for you to customize your space and get as many as you need for your workspace.  You can tile them across the wall vertically or horizontally, or whatever pattern you like!  Made of durable steel and priced at just $46.50. Uline offers a great one-piece steel pegboard that’s fully customizable to whatever tools and materials you need to store. These panels are 48”x24” and at just $58 or buy a 3 pack for a $55/ea bargain deal. The nice thing about this is you will cover a large wall space in one go.  If you prefer to cover an even larger space, you may wish to grab the 96”x48” option for $195. For a cord or cable management option that won’t break the bank, this 13” cord storage reel is under $10 and a great portable holder for cords, hoses, cables and more. Priced under $50 and conveniently designed to keep your cords and cables tangle free, the Cable Wrangler cable management system is a must-have. Toolboxes and Tool Chests Choosing the right toolbox is the first step in getting yourself organized for everything from weekend project car sessions to simple tasks like changing the oil or fixing a flat.  Even if you’ve got a small space, a rolling chest toolbox is going to be the most optimal piece of equipment you’ll purchase for your space.  Measure the dimensions of your garage to make sure the toolbox will fit flush against the wall and clear your ceiling height. The most dependable toolbox designs will be made of metal with locking caster wheels for optimal safety.  Another great option are toolboxes with locking drawers and latches to keep your tools safe and prevent climbing by children, pets, etc.  If you’re short on space, you’ll want one that also offers a workbench space at the top or a fold-out bench to give you some surface area when needed.  Consider also choosing one with coordinating accessories available such as magnetic trays and properly fitting drawer organizers to keep things secure and separate from one another for maximum organization! We’ve selected a few different price range options and styles to get you started on your search.  Once you’ve had a look at what’s out there at different price points, you’ll be able to better choose the right option that best fits your budget. For the budding gearhead or the mobile-mechanic, we love this DieHard Toolbox Roller seat! It’s just $120 and is easy to move around if you’re working in your driveway or carport, or checking out your vehicle before track day. The Seville Classics UltraHD 6-Drawer Rolling Cabinet is just $300 and only ~35” high, perfect for one-car garages and small work areas. We also love the Craftsman 2000 Series Steel Rolling Tool Cabinet at just $450; i t’s great if you’ve got lots of wallspace but not much room for a tall chest of drawers. The Westward Rolling Tool Cabinet is under $600 and is great for small spaces at just ~40” high. If you have less width but more height available in your garage, you’ll love the Husky Standard Duty 16-drawer combination Rolling Tool Chest and Top-Tool Cabinet set for $700! It has 16 drawers and will fit into smaller spaces at just 41in wide compared to the shorter but more horizontal design options. If you’re ready to roll with the big leagues, try this larger set that’s still a fairly budget friendly option on clearance sale at Harbor Freight. The US General Triple-Bank Roller cabinet is a whopping 72” long, with plenty of drawer space for just about anything you can think of, and a convenient workstation on top.  It’s a great deal at just $1300! If you’re already set to go pro, the Husky Professional Duty 20 drawer mobile workbench tool chest is going to be everything you need to start your hobby garage off right.  It’s got a power strip and USB ports built in, plenty of drawers and organizational space, and a gorgeous worktop.  Plus, it comes in several different color options

Minqua is a year round fishing destination and 2,300 bodies of water located in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. With one of the country’s largest concentrations of freshwater lakes, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular destination for anglers and outdoor aficionados.  Game fishing season opens the first Saturday of every May for walleye, northern pike, and bass, but you can snag perch, crappie, and bluegill as open options year round. During the month of May through the first week of June walleye northern pike crappie perch and bluegill are top priority. Not into fishing? No problem! There’s plenty more to do in Minocqua besides!  We’ll cover plenty of other great activities and adventures in this post, too. more Local Fishing Hot Spots in Minocqua Area to Snag the Best Catch Minocqua Chain of Lakes is a very popular area of lakes right in the middle of Minocqua, and while it's a very busy region in the summer, you’ll still find plenty of quiet areas in the evenings for a more leisurely experience.  It’s one of the most popular fishing areas, but also has lots to do for the angler averse.  The lake includes 5 different lakes with plenty of opportunities to catch quite a bit!  First up is Tomahawk Lake, a 3,462 acre lake that’s 84 feet deep with unparalleled clarity.  You’ll find muskie, walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and panfish.  Minocqua Lake has 1,339 acres and is 60 feet deep with moderately clear water.  You’ll find muskie, walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish.  Kawaguesaga lake is 700 acres and 44 feet deep; you’ll find panfish to be the most common catch followed by muskie, smallmouth bass, and walleye.  Mid Lake is 221 acres, and just 12 feet deep; its most common catches are muskie, northern pike, and panfish.  Little Tomahawk Lake is 153 acres and 48 feet deep; common catches here include largemouth bass, smallmouth bass,walleye, and muskie. Outside of the Minocqua Chain of lakes you’ll find plenty more boating and fishing areas. Squirrel Lake is a gorgeous 1,309 acre lake with a 46 foot depth, and anglers have noted muskie, walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and panfish as the most common fish to catch, although northern pike have been found as well.  Clear Lake is 95 feet deep and 873 acres, with common catches including muskie, walleye, trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish.  Shishebogama Lake is 700 acres and 42 feet deep and a great spot to snag some muskie, walleye, largemouth bass, and panfish. Other local hot spots include Blue Lake. Amber Lake, Bolger Lake, Booth Lake, Buckskin Lake, Carrol Lake, Madeline Lake, Pine Lake, Stone Lake, Sweeny Lake. Here’s a great guide to local fishing tips and tricks in Minocqua by fish type! Amazing Adventures and Activities for the Angler Averse Sure, fishing may be one of the greatest American pastimes, but we understand that it’s not for everyone. It requires an immense amount of practice, patience, and persistence.  Sometimes, folks just want to get right into the excitement and action on vacation instead of sitting and waiting. We get it!  That’s why we’ve rounded up our picks for great things to do outside of boating and fishing. Why not take a visit to the Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo and Nature Center! This incredible 168 acre zoo and safari park is a fun, educational experience with plenty of excitement for the whole family. You’ll explore more than a thousand animals encompassing more than two hundred species!  It’s the second largest zoo in Wisconsin, and is just a short drive away from the fisherman’s paradise.  You can opt to stroll on your own, or take a guided tour from the local staff.  Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, there’s also plenty of opportunity to participate in hand-feeding the animals for a truly memorable visit. Take a walk in the wild side with a ziplining tour through the treetops with Northwoods Zipline. Adrenaline junkies and adventure seekers will check off all their boxes during this two and a half hour zipline through the lakes and forests of Minocqua.  With 9 different ziplines and 5 adventure bridges to cross, there’s never a dull moment here. Plus, there’s an exhilarating tree-top obstacle course, swings, and climbing areas to enjoy. Hit the trails with an ATV tour and experience the lake from a new perspective. A&M UTV Rentals offers ATV Tours t hrough the more than 200 miles of trails in the forest and around the lakes.  Rentals are available for a maximum of 8 hours, perfect for a full day of sightseeing and thrill seeking for any wilderness enthusiast. Grab your bicycles and mountain bikes and head for a trail ride, or your best running and hiking shoes for a trail hike and dash at Bearskin State Trail. With more than 18 miles of scenic trails and landscapes through lakes, creeks, and forest, you’ll get up close and personal with nature. Bring your binoculars and digital cameras to capture some great nature photography or go birding, too! Book a ticket to watch the Min-Aqua Bats amazing water ski show during the summer! This local Minocqua team of waterskiers perform must-see tricks such as juggling, jumps, and flips from their water skis! Looking for some more ways to unwind and relax in Minocqua? Check out this local guide of activities and fun things to do in the area.

Today is National Picnic Day, and what better way to celebrate than making big plans to celebrate with friends and family with a picnic and some delicious local food at State Fairs around Illinois and Wisconsin! more Amazing State Fairs and Outdoor Events in Wisconsin and Illinois for Spring and Summer 2023 Running now through May 13th in Spring Grove, you won’t want to miss out on the incomparable Richardson Farm Tulip Festival. With more than 5 acres and 300,000 bulbs featuring 30 different varieties of flower, this memorable event is the experience of a lifetime.  From wine tastings to photo ops to delicious donuts and more, your whole family will have something to enjoy!  Plus, you’ll get to pick your own free tulip with each admission ticket. The Spring Fling is celebrating its first annual event in Springfield, Illinois featuring local food and drinks, horse riding, and special events by the Wooten Rodeo Company as well as the Fairground Showdown Youth Speed Challenge, all happening at the DuQuoin State Fair Grounds Reserve May 20th to enjoy  an annual family-friendly celebration in Springfield for the LGBTQIA+ Springfield Pridefest event! With plenty of live entertainment, local food and drink, and unique local vendors and artisan goods, you’ll have the time of your life.  So don your best rainbows and your glitteriest accessories, and come on down. Reserve the first weekend in June to visit H arvard, IL and enjoy the celebration of “Harvard Milk Days”.  Each year, a two mile stretch of the town center is flooded with more than 30 special events and exhibits as they celebrate the local dairy industry for more than 80 years!  Visitors will enjoy a very festive parade, rides and games, local food, a fireworks show, a petting zoo, a Jr. Cattle Show, special races and contests, live entertainment, and so much more. On June 4th from 10AM to 4PM, the local favorite Good Old Summertime Art Fair is returning to Kenosha, Wisconsin! This free admission event is held rain or shine, so you can make your plans with confidence.  Enjoy the regional and local fine arts and local handcrafted goods in the downtown area at Civic Center Park. The Bristol Renaissance Fair takes place in Kenosha, WI every weekend from July through September.  Families will love leaping back in time to the late 1500s!  With more than 2,000 performers and 13 stages as well as special guests, visitors will enjoy a rollicking good time enjoying parades, live music, historical reenactments, special exhibits and live demonstrations, and so much more. The Wisconsin State Fair runs this year from August 3rd through the 13th, celebrating its roots and traditions for 172 years!  Families will find all sorts of affordable fun and activities at this entertaining and educational event.  Explore the agricultural showcase featuring renewable energy programs and agricultural demonstrations, learn about horticulture, crafts and textile, and even culinary competitions!  There’s also dozens of stages offering country, pop, rock, R&B, oldies, and comedy shows to fit all kinds of folks.  Not to mention, there’s hundreds of local and regional food and beverage vendors. Don’t forget oto sample Wisconsin’s official state food while you’re there: The deep-fried Cheese curd.  There’s also lots of games, attractions, and shopping to enjoy! The Annual Illinois State Fair is back again in Springfield from August 10th through the 20th.  This agricultural fair celebrates the rich history of Illinois as a farming community, with good ol’ fashioned state fair fun!  Welcoming nearly 350,000 visitors every year, fairgoers will enjoy live entertainment, big names in country and rock concerts, horse racing, a carnival and parade, local foods and beer, and so very much more!  Head on over to sample the famous corndogs and ogle the butter cow sculptures. It’s a can’t-miss local event! The 40th Annual Port Clinton Art Festival 2023 will be held on August 26th and 27th in Highland Park, Illinois This beautiful family friendly event takes place downtown and features an incredible array of local artists and artisans.  The downtown streets are closed to traffic, so you can enjoy a relaxing stroll to admire the art and handcrafted goods on display and for purchase in the market.  It’s also wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly! Close out your summer with the Annual Hoopeston National Sweet Corn Festival, happening August 31st through September 4th 2023. The self-proclaimed corn capitol of the world, Hoopsetown hosts a 5-day festival celebrating you guessed it: Corn!  Festivalgoers will have a blast at the themed parade, followed by a carnival, 5K Run, Demo Derby, Tractor Pull, and all sorts of fun contests and activities with live entertainment.

Here at Classic Toyota, we’re so proud to be a part of an automotive family that cares so much about our planet.  Toyota’s ongoing commitment to sustainability, recycling and repurposing, and reducing their carbon footprint makes us shout with glee!  And it comes as no surprise that our beloved manufacturer had big plans this year for Earth Day.  Let’s take a look at some of the amazing things Toyota did to celebrate. more Toyota’s theme for 2023 Earth Day is “Let’s Make a Better Planet”. Toyota has made an ongoing commitment to do their part for the environment, and mindfulness and respect for the planet is part of the company culture’s core values.  Toyota has created the “Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050” as a long-term aspirational goal towards positive impacts made on environmental sustainability. Challenge 2050 consists of a set of 6 challenges and goals to eliminate negative environmental impact and instill a lasting change and positive value for our planet’s future.  The goals include achieving carbon neutrality across vehicle life cycle, commitment to support circular economy, water conservation, habitat restoration, and protecting all species of life on earth. Toyota has also made a commitment to celebrate Earth Month across the whole month of April, which includes a set of environmentally conscious activities and earth friendly events company wide. At headquarters in Plano, Texas, Toyota has organized special events for employees and their families to learn about vehicle battery recycling, as well as a volunteer trip to Fish Trap Lake Park to work alongside the National Environmental Education Foundation to educate teens and kids about water quality as well as environmental career opportunities. The assembly plant and engineering center in Georgetown, Kentucky has arranged for an Adopt-A-Highway cleanup program, a composting workshop, tree sapling giveaways, and a bird and wildflower identification walk through the on-site nature trail for families and employees. The Ann Arbor, Michigan research and development facility has organized a workshop to learn about the Green Things Farm Collective, an environmental scavenger hunt, educational programs about composting and recycling, and special Earth Day Prize Packs. Looking for ways to honor Earth Day everyday in your own community? We’ve got some great ideas! Conserve energy in your own homes by turning off lights and electronics when they’re not in use; select energy star rated appliances; use a programmable thermostat; change your in-home air filter or AC unit air filters regularly; swap to LED light bulbs. Reduce paper waste by opting for electronic and online bill-pay options and unsubscribe from paper mailings. Shred your junk mail and paper items and bring them to your local recycling center or add to your compost piles. Recycle your old, used, or broken electronics instead of throwing them into the trash. Many stores and local recycling centers offer pick-up or drop-off programs for tablets, computers, phones, and more. What ways do you and your family participate in “Earth Day Every Day”? Let us know in a comment!

Summer is Coming! And it's time to talk about the importance of cleaning and servicing your car's AC and ventilation system before the heat wave hits. We're here to break down some of the important terminology and terms with our next installment of Classic's Automotive Terminology Decoder! more Here are some of the terms you may hear when speaking with your mechanic or service professional about your AC and Climate Control system: A/C compressor An engine-driven pump in the air conditioning system that increases the pressure of the refrigerant. A/C drain hose A hose used to drain condensation from the air conditioner evaporator. Air conditioner refrigerant The liquid used in air conditioning systems, which has the property of boiling at ambient air temperatures. Air conditioning The cooling and dehumidification of a vehicle's cabin air. Air conditioning filter A device that removes contaminants from external air entering the ventilation system. Air filter A device that filters incoming air fed to the engine. Climate control The computer-controlled regulation of heating and air conditioning systems to accommodate a user-specified temperature setting. HVAC Heating, ventilation and air conditioning. Radiator core & AC condenser The part of a vehicle's radiator and air conditioning systems made up of small-diameter tubes with a series of thin, heat-conducting fins in between. Rear HVAC The climate-control system used to regulate heating and air conditioning for the area of a vehicle behind the front row seating. How does it all work? Your car’s climate control system is a complex combination of components that include the compressor, condenser, receiver/dryer or an accumulator, a thermal expansion valve or orifice tube, and an evaporator. The compressor helps pressurize refrigerant to cool the air, and can sense the temperatures both inside and outside the vehicle, moves air to the condenser, etc.  The condenser helps reduce the temperature and the pressure of any hot gasses emitted from the refrigeration system, and moves cold liquid refrigerant to your receiver/dryer or the accumulator.  The most common parts to need service are the compressor and the condenser Additionally, low refrigerant (can be caused by leaks), a worn or broken v-belt or serpentine belt (helps the compressor function), or a busted compressor switch may also be the culprit. How do you diagnose an issue with your vehicle’s AC/Heating system? If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s an indication that your car’s AC system is in need of help from a pro: The air from the vents is not actually cold.  This may be due to debris clogging the AC unit, low or no refrigerant, damaged cooling fans, or more. You hear strange noises coming from the vent such as banging, rattling, squealing.  This might be a simple fix such as removing debris, or it may be a broken component inside. Your nose twinges due to foul smelling, musty, stale, or strange smells coming from the AC vents.  This may indicate that you need a new air filter or clear debris, but it may also indicate that you have mold growth inside the unit.  If you notice a chemical smell, that may indicate a leak in the AC or the radiator. There are water stains inside your vehicle instead of underneath it.  Your AC system drains water out from underneath your vehicle, and it’s a perfectly normal, healthy sign.  However, if you run the unit and notice any puddling or dampness inside on your floormats or under the dash, it may indicate that there’s a clog. There may be a leak in the AC system, which a professional will diagnose with special dyes to help identify and indicate the location and source of the leak. If you spot any of the above issues, it’s time to schedule a call with our service department for an AC system check.  Our professional technicians will thoroughly inspect your climate control system and its components to diagnose if the problem is mechanical or electrical. What can I do to help maintain my car’s ventilation and air conditioning system? Check under the hood and remove any leaves, trash, or other debris from inside the engine bay (when the car is cooled!) Check the cabin air filter and clean it or replace it. Clean your vehicle’s air vent system with a microfiber cloth, small brush, and air sanitizer.

Earth Day is only two days away, but here at Classic Toyota we’re celebrating a little bit early!  You see, we’re very proud to be a part of a brand of automotive manufacturing that has made a huge commitment to be mindful of their environmental impact.  Toyota has committed to have all facilities carbon neutral by 2035, and eliminate CO2 emissions from energy usage by 2050! On April 12th, Toyota announced something really exciting! Toyota North America is already on the path to achieve 100% renewable energy sources for 7 of its Michigan facilities, including the Research and Development headquarters in Ann Arbor, all thanks to the DTE Energy’s MIGreenPower Program. MIGreenPower is one of the largest voluntary renewable energy programs in the US. It allows home and business customers to receive a large percentage of their electricity through Michigan-made wind and solar projects! Check it out: more Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) and DTE Energy (DTE) today announced Toyota’s enrollment in MIGreenPower, DTE’s voluntary renewable energy program. Toyota’s participation puts all of TMNA’s Research and Development operations in Michigan on a path to attribute 100% of their electricity use to renewable energy projects starting in 2026.¹ This includes the company’s R&D Headquarters in Ann Arbor along with six other facilities across Washtenaw County. TMNA’s clean energy commitment covers a 20-year period and will have the environmental benefit equal to avoiding 29,000 metric tons of CO2 or the greenhouse gas emissions from more than 6,200 gasoline-powered passenger cars driven for a year.² “Renewable energy programs like DTE’s MIGreenPower program are crucial to helping companies seeking a reduced carbon footprint to achieve their goals,” said Kevin Butt, director of Environmental Sustainability for TMNA. “From our R&D facilities in Michigan to our production and corporate facilities across the nation, Toyota aims to achieve carbon neutrality throughout our operations by 2035.” MIGreenPower is among the largest voluntary renewable energy programs in the United States. The program enables DTE Electric’s residential and business customers to attribute an even greater percentage of their electricity use to Michigan-made wind and solar projects beyond the 15% DTE already provides. To date, the company has more than 800 businesses enrolled in the program along with more than 85,000 residential customers. On an annual basis, MIGreenPower customers have enrolled four million megawatt hours of clean energy in the program, which has the environmental benefit equivalent to avoiding more than three million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually or the greenhouse gas emissions from more than 630,000 gasoline-powered passenger cars.³ Program participation is accelerating the development of new wind and solar projects in Michigan. By 2026, DTE will add more than 2,000 MW of new clean energy projects to meet program demand. “We are excited to welcome Toyota to the MIGreenPower program,” said Brian Calka, vice president, Renewable Sales and Project Development for DTEEnergy. “Toyota joins a growing list of Michigan-based automotive manufacturers and suppliers who are enrolling in MIGreenPower to meet their sustainability goals. Currently, more than 70% of MIGreenPower business customers are involved in the automotive sector.” DTE is Michigan’s largest producer of and investor in renewable energy and is committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. In its CleanVision Integrated Resource Plan filed in November 2022 with the Michigan Public Service Commission, DTE proposed increasing investment in solar and wind energy, accelerating the retirement of coal plants, and investing in the development of new energy storage – all reinforcing DTE’s commitment to cleaner energy. If the new plan is approved, the company will add more than 15,000 megawatts of new renewable energy projects over the next two decades. RELATED MEDIA RELATED IMAGES TMNA R&D For more than 50 years, Toyota Motor North America Research & Development (TMNA R&D) has led engineering for several of the best-selling Toyota vehicles on U.S. roads. Teams are now creating both next-generation vehicles and new and advanced mobility concepts that can better move people, goods and information. Toyota’s innovation has produced more patents from the United States Patent and Trademark Office than any other automaker for the past 9 years (3,056 in 20221). Centered in Ann Arbor, Michigan, TMNA R&D is pursuing Toyota’s mission to “Produce Happiness for All” by making life safer, easier and more enjoyable. Globally, Toyota spends approximately $1 million per hour on R&D to ensure that Toyota rapidly and continuously develops cutting-edge, high-quality, and appealing vehicles. About DTE Energy DTE Energy (NYSE:DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include an electric company serving 2.3 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.3 million customers in Michigan. The DTE portfolio includes energy businesses focused on power and industrial projects, renewable natural gas, and energy marketing and trading. Through our commitment to cleaner energy, DTE Electric plans to reduce CO2 emissions by 90% and DTE Gas will plan to reduce methane emissions by more than 80% by 2040 to produce cleaner energy while keeping it safe, reliable and affordable. DTE Electric and Gas aspire to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050. DTE is committed to serving with its energy through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy and economic progress. Information about DTE is available at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, twitter.com/dte_energy and facebook.com. 1 Includes 15% renewable energy already provided by DTE Energy through the State of Michigan’s Renewable Portfolio Standard. 2, 3 Avoided emissions and equivalencies are based on the Environmental Protection Agency equivalencies calculator at epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator

It’s time for another fun Youtuber Roundup where we gather all of the latest and greatest videos from our subscriptions on the streaming platform.  Whether you’re looking for fun shorts or lengthier DIYs and tutorials, we’ve got you covered. more First up is the latest published today from Donut Media, covering the fastest American cars of all time.  Watch the crew test out the vehicles on camera, and give you a little history and tech specs on each! Get your car summer ready by super-cleaning its interior before your next lengthy road trip!  From the dashboards to the doors to the backseat and floor, ChrisFix has got you all set with a step-by-step detailed tutorial. Always struggling with packing too much or too little when you travel? Here’s some great advice on packing your road trip essentials to get you started.  Gemini Discover on YouTube has even included a handy downloadable list, and includes a link to part 2 with essential clothes and toiletries!  Definitely a must-watch before you plan your next vacation. Get ready for a summer of travel with this classic video from CNET Cars and their helpful checklist of preparations from tire treads to fluid levels and then some, with honest and upfront advice. Driving a manual transmission car isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and if you’ve ever been a passenger along for a bumpy, jerky ride, you’ll know that there’s definitely a right and wrong way to do it.  The Conquer Driving Channel video has some great tips and tricks to demonstrate how to drive a manual car smoothly!  Bear in mind that this video is UK based, so please don’t drive on the wrong side of the road here. Looking for even more manual driving tips?  This video from US based Casey the Car Guy is another great watch! Changing your car’s fluids and taking it in for a service appointment are a must-do on your pre vacation checklist.  However, if you prefer to take matters into your own hands, or perhaps you’re stranded while traveling and need to DIY it, ChrisFix has yet another wonderful video!  This step by step comprehensive guide will take you through the process of changing your own oil including what tools and supplies you will need to do it safely. Headlights looking a little dull and murky, but feeling overwhelmed with the amount of options that are available for headlight restoration kits? We feel you! Thank godoness for this helpful video from WatchJRGo where he runs through every single kit at O’Reilleys and tells you which one works best for his needs.  You’ll find a great jumping off point along with links to help you along.