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We know a lot of young drivers are heading out for Spring Break soon, and Summer Vacation is just around the corner from that!  That’s why today’s blog is dedicated to helpful tips for new and recently licensed drivers.  We want to see you hit the road to adventure and make the most of life, but for you to do so as safely as possible!  Check out these hints, tips, and advice from seasoned drivers to keep you and your car in tip-top shape no matter what life throws at you, and where the road takes you. Already have your first car and itching to get out in the world for a road trip? Check out these helpful tips for driving in Spring Breaks and Summer Vacations. Plan your itinerary ahead of time. Be sure to include a list of rest stops, gas stations, and eateries at different points along your route.  Being spontaneous is still possible, but having a general idea of where you’re going, how far each stop off is, and what you’d like to do can save plenty of time, money, and gas! And it’s always good to let someone know where you’re going, so be sure to give a copy of your road trip itinerary to your family and friends so they can stay in touch and know where you are in case of any emergencies.  This will also help you budget better to know how much you’ll need for fuel, accommodations, etc! In warmer weather, especially the summer, the hottest part of hte day is between 10AM and 5PM, traveling before and after those hours can make for a cooler, more comfortable ride (especially in older vehicles whose AC may be a little less reliable). Drive the speed limit and obey posted traffic signs to avoid costly tickets and points on your license. During periods like Spring Break and Summer; there is an increased number of drivers on roadways as well as patrol officers doling out tickets. Adhering to posted signage will save you a lot of grief, and keep more money in your pocket for activities and adventures! Check your car’s fluid levels and top them off before you hit the road. Make sure that your gas tank is always full before you head off to your next destination, and never let it get below ¼ tank on long journeys.  Your engine oil should be changed every 3 months. And you’ll want to make sure that your coolant is topped off so your car doesn’t overheat. Keep calm, cool, and collected if you hit traffic or delays. Increased travel rates means increased traffic. If you find yourself stuck in a jam, be patient and do your best to avoid road rage. It’s never worth getting into a tiff with another driver, and it’s better to be patient so everyone arrives safely. Allow extra time on your journey for road congestion, and check live maps like Waze or GoogleMaps for constant traffic updates. Get plenty of rest before you head out on the road. Exhausted drivers can make costly mistakes and even end up in serious or fatal collissions. If you find yourself getting tired while driving, be sure to pull over and put your hazards on and rest.  Even better, switch off with other passengers in your car, splitting the journey between you so that everyone gets to recharge and resume driving after feeling rested.

It’s National Cleaning Week!  We’ve gone over plenty of ways to clean and organize your garage, and prep your work area for projects, but what about focusing on that car you worked so hard on?  Keeping your ride pristine, crisp, and looking fresh as the day you got it is the name of the game, today!  We’re going to share some reasons why detailing and cleaning your car regularly is important when it comes to vehicle maintenance.  And we’re going to help you out even further with some top tier recommendations for products to get the job done right and looking professional. What is automotive detailing and why should you do it regularly? Detailing is an intense cleaning process that thoroughly cleans the interior and exterior of the vehicle, and light restoration and maintenance that restore your vehicle looking almost new!  Detailers hide minor scratches and imperfections through the process of polishing, waxing and sealing.  Some detailers do put your vehicle through an automatic car wash first to get the initial grime off, but the rest of the process is done up, close, and personal by hand using special cloths.  The detailing is more costly than your average car wash, but these professional cleaners use highly specialized chemicals and sometimes even light cosmetic paint restorations and high-tech protective coating. The best time to do a full detail on your car is during Summer and Fall, but Winter and Spring detailing is important if oyu live in an area with lots of winter weather, salt/gravel, and ice.  Detailing will help prevent those things from building up on your vehicle and causing rust or other damage. As for the additional benefits of detailing, those include: Detailers can preserve the vehicle’s paint and correct minor paint imperfections. Protect your upholstery with deep cleaning, stain prevention and removal, and odor elmination. The interior will be fully vacuumed, washed, steamed, deodorized. Detailing not only extends the life of your car, but it will preserve the value by keeping it pristine through not just the cleaning but detailed inspections and cleanings of the engine. Reduces the spread of germs and allergens through regular maintenance and deep cleaning. Only 2 to 3 deep cleanings are required on average per year, making it an easy maintenance step and budget friendly. Should you DIY your Detailing or Hire the Pros? Let’s check it out! We’ve gathered some videos from YouTubers who have the knowledge and experience to help you wade through the dozens of lists, sites, and advice online.  Thanks to their insight, you’ll be able to decide if this is a task left best to the pros, or something you’d like to learn more about as an automotive enthusiast. The Crew at Donut Media have kindly put together an energetic and entertaining comparison of the pros and cons to self detailing versus hiring a professional.  We love the way they split the car down the middle for a literal side-by-side comparison! The pros at AMMO NYC are giving us the ins and outs on disinfecting your vehicle through a detailing process to protect from viruses and germs like Covid-19 and others, as well as sharing a full detail of a vehicle in real-time with a newbie detailer!  Check out the videos here: ​​ YouTuber ChrisFix is helping us learn how to detail and super clean the interior of a car from carpents to dash to trunk to headliner.  He’s even got some suggestions for DIY materials, tools, and cleansers to get the job done right! Detailing your car on a budget until you can save up for the “real deal” detailer? We understand!  Not everyone has the chunk of change to drop, but needs their car cleaned with a wallet-friendly option.  Detailing Beyond Limits on YouTube is sharing their tips for detailing supplies under $150!  Yes, you heard that right. Check it out. Want to learn how to properly wash your car like a pro at home? We’ve got you covered with this in-depth tutorial from Pan the Organizer.  This step-by-step guide will make sure you don’t miss an inch, and the entire vehicle will sparkle from trunk to hood and then some. ​​

Today is National Puppy Day, and arguably the most adorable day of the year!  Today we’re going to share some fun facts about why puppies can help improve your mental health, as well as local area shelters who need our help and support to save dogs and puppies in our community. Did you know… Research shows that simply looking at pictures of puppies can improve your mental health, and increase your focus! Dogs can reduce stress, anxiety and depression, decrease loneliness, and improve your overall health by encouraging you to incorporate more movement and exercise into your daily routine! The average dog has the intellectual capacity and intelligence of a 2-year-old to 2-and-a-half year old human! A normal litter of puppies can range from 1 to 12 puppies depending on the size and breed of the dog, but an average of 5-6 puppies per litter is the average across all breeds. Dogs can sometimes have up to three litters a year, which is why it is recommended to spay and neuter your pets early to decrease the population in shelters. Nearly 25% of dogs in animal rescues and shelters are actually pure bred dogs! That’s 1 in 4 purebreeds on average in shelters across the United States according to the HSUS. There are an average of about 4 million shelter pets adopted each year according to the ASPCA. Adopting an animal means saving more than just one life! Sure, your new buddy gets a fabulous and safe new home, but you’re also clearing the shelter space for another animal in need to be rescued in their stead and find their forever home next! Looking to adopt a dog in Lake County and nearby areas? We can help! Here’s a great list to start you off on your search for your new best friend, and of course feel free to list your suggestions in a comment as well! Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter in Riverwoods Save-A-Pet Inc in Grayslake Animal Education & Rescue in Chicago Metropolitan Area Paws and Affect Animal Rescue in Lakemoor Kamins Farm in Grayslake Our House of Hope in Libertyville K9s4U Dog Rescue (Kenosha county and surrounding) Wagging Hearts in Hainesville Illinois Doberman Rescue Plus Heartland Animal Shelter in Wheeling Kay’s Animal Shelter in Arlington Heights Barb’s Precious Rescue & Adoption Center in Palatine

Did you know that it’s National Agriculture Week? Agriculture is the world’s largest industry, employing more than one billion people, and creating more than $1 trillion in food every year.  Did you know that 50% of our planet’s habitable land areas are devoted to pastureland and crops?  Agriculture is also a leading producer of pollution through pesticide, fertilizer, and other chemicals.  Massive, large scale farming has caused a significant impact on our environment.  As a result, we need to be more concerned with sustainability than ever before, and support critical restoration and preservation of habitats, clean and protect global watersheds, and improve overall soil health and quality.  Without sustainable agricultural practices, our planet would lose a significant source of food, shelter, and natural resources that support our wildlife and humanity! There are “4Rs of Sustainable Farming: Right source, right rate, right time, and right place.” By ensuring that we are mindful of what crops we plant, taking advantage of local climate and nutrients, and choosing to plant cover crops instead of leaving open fields of soil, we can help improve economic and environmental impacts!  Sustainable agriculture is a series of practicies to reduce environmental impact and improve soil health, water quality, and create both resilient and profitable models of agriculture.  Things such as crop rotation, crop diversity, reducing or eliminating tillage to reduce erosion, planting cover crops during off-season, and managing our farms as ecosystems in and of themselves will vastly improve our planet’s overall health.  The Illinois Sustainable Agriculture Partnership is making great strides in supporting healthy soil, clean water, and diverse and resilient farm communities! We’re so proud to live in the state of Illinois, where nearly 75% of the land here is devoted to Agriculture!  Sustainable agriculture is important to all of us here in Illinois, and we’re a state that is committed to improving economic, social, and natural resource sustainability across all areas. Thanks to our fertile soil, farmers here in Illinois can grow everything from oats to sorghum to fruits and geggies and even specialty crops like mushrooms!  It’s also a very big industry for employment, with nearly 1 million people employed in the food and fiber industries, We’re also leading the nation in production of soybeans, corn, and swine.  We’re also the top producer in food manufacturing, with $180 billion dollars of sales in processed foods!  Illinois is a vital part of the food production industry here in the United States, with more than 72,000 farms across our state covering 27 million acres. Farms of all sizes contribute to the local economy here, and by creating sustainable systems we ensure a strong financial future for generations to come! It’s not just our farmers of crops and livestock that drive the global effort for sustainability, though. Did you know that the automotive industry is also taking measures to reduce their carbon footprint and improve sustainability on a global scale?  Automakers are working collectively to minimize production waste and reduce environmental impact of the production and manufacturing process.  Decreasing the dependency on things such as fossil fuels, depending on green energy from wind and solar for manufacturing, and developing more fuel efficient hybrids and electric vehicles will all make a big difference towards environmental conseravtion and green sustainable living. At Classic Auto Group we are proud to support not just our local farmers and sustainable agriculture, but also our auto manufacturers efforts to join the cause!

In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly instituted the International Day of Forests as a way to honor and raise awareness globally for the importance of all varieties and types of forests.  The forests of our planet help to filter the air and water we breathe, provide vital food, shelter, and resources to both humans and wildlife, and also protect us from UV rays.  Visiting forests has also shown proven benefits to improve your physical and mental health, as well as a sustainable source of energy and resources. The International Day of Forest s is also an opportunity to raise awarenes for the devastating effects of industrial agriculture, logging, and mining efforts, and inform the general public about the importance of restoring forests, protecting the environment, and increasing our conservation efforts. Today, we’re going to explore a few of the National Forests and Forest Preserves in Wisconsin, Illinois, and nearby states. We encourage you to get involved with conservation efforts, consider a more sustainable lifestyle, and get out there to appreciate nature with your friends and family! Three wonderful forests to check out: Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Wisconsin covers more than 1 million acres of land in northern Wisconsin.  Early logging efforts in the 20th century saw fit to remove the “old growth” forest. In the 1930s, however, many new trees were planted by The Civilian Conservation Corps, resulting in an absolutely lush forest with breathtaking scenery.  This National Forest was originally two separate forests, but are now managed as one property by the USDA Forest Service.  Travelers can enjoy a multitude of activities such as camping (some of which are pet friendly sites), hiking, berry picking (in season), hunting, fishing, cross country skiing, and even snowmobiling.  Nature lovers will rejoice to observe roaming wildlife such as deer, bears, foxes, coyotes, wolves, loons, and songbirds.  If you’re an angler, you’ll be excited to find trout, bass, panfish, and northern pike!  The forest has a number of lakes and streams; Twentymile Creek and the headwaters of the Marengo River also provide clean water flow to Lake Superior! White Pines Forest State Park in Mt Morris IL covers 385 acres of parklands and is the perfect place for an outdoor getaway.  You’ll enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, picnicking, nature photography, bird watching, archery, cross country skiing, hunting, and much more.  There are more than 100 campsites and picnic areas along Pine Creek, where you’ll be able to observe wildlife, enjoy some fishing, or explore the incredible wildflowers and foliage of the area.  It’s also home to the White Pines Lodge, which has 13 one room cabins, 2 four room cabins, and 1 two room cabin if you prefer less of a “rough-it” approach, and offers a dinner theatre, banquet hall, and delicious dining at the White Pines Lodge Restaurant. Iron Oaks Forest Preserve in Olympia Fields IL is a fantastic family-friendly destination full of nature adventures, educational opportunities, and recreational activities.  The forest preserve has everything from climbing walls to crate climbing challenges to a high ropes course physical challenge and so much more!  In the winter, visitors can enjoy cross country skiing or snowshoeing excursions on the nature trails.  There are numerous nature programs to enjoy that will put you up close and personal with the great outdoors, as well as multiple STEM based Nature Camps for kids!  It’s a wonderful place to connect with our world on a personal level and learn about our environment. Other Nature Preserves and  National Forests in Illinois and Neighboring States: Shawnee National Forest in Herod IL Sand Ridge State Forest in Forest City IL Big River State Forest in Keithsburg, IL Hidden Spring State Forest in Strasburg, IL Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie in Wilmington,IL Hoosier National Forest in Bedford, IN Yellow River State Forest in Harpers Ferrry, IA Stephens State Forest in Chariton, IA White Pines Hollow State Forest in New Vienna, IA Shimek State Forest in Farmington, IA Merrit Forest State Preserve in Colesburg, IA

Spring has arrived! Today is the Spring Equinox, and we’re celebrating by sharing our best service tips for Spring.  Get your car Road Trip Ready so you can enjoy your vacation for Spring Break, and drive with confidence knowing your vehicle is in tip top shape. Top off your oil and do an oil change. Check-in with your mechanic and service center to see if your vehicle needs a different higher temperature oil for the incoming warmer weather. Replace wiper blades and apply hydrophobic coating to your windshield. April Showers bring May Flowers, but it’s important to have clear visibility as you drive if you’d like to see the sights of springtime blooming around you! Check your battery’s connections. Inspect your battery for signs of corrosion or wear, and do a battery check to see if it needs reconditioning or a replacement due to wear and tear or weather issues. Detail your vehicle’s interior and give your car professional car wash. If your car has a leather or leather-blend interior, it’s important to condition the fabric so it doesn’t crack or peel during hot weather months.  Get into all the nooks and crannies to clear out the grit, grime, and grave that accumulated over winter!  Bringing your car to a professional washing facility will also help remove the accumulated salt and muck from winter weather.  Help keep it protected through rainy days by requesting it also get a fresh buff with top quality car wax. Check your vehicle’s belts and hoses. Pop open the hood and take a look inside and ensure that all of the belts, hoses, and connections are in tip-top shape. Cold and freezing temperatures can cause the rubber and plastics to crack or split, thus weakening their ability to move properly.  Save yourself a lot of money and aggravation by ensuring all belts and hoses are replaced before they cause your vehicle to stall or your engine seizes. Check and Test your A/C. Don’t wait until the sweltering heat is already in full-force before you test your Air Conditioner.  Make sure the fans and cooling unit are working properly before the summer gets here, and get it tuned-up and repaired if not! Check those tires. Look for uneven wear, bald spots, and do the “penny test” to evaluate your tire tread depth.  You’ll also want to check the tire pressure, as changes in weather can cause the air to contract and expand which affects your tire air pressure.  Make sure your spare tire or donut are in good condition in case you need to use them in an emergency. Check your vehicle’s light bulbs. Properly working light bulbs and LEDs can increase your visibility during foggy, hazy weather and rain. Replace any interior and exterior lights that are blinking or not working. Change your cabin filter. A fresh, clean cabin air filter is a great way to clean the air and reduce pollen and allergens in your car’s interior. Bring your car in for a general tune-up and check-up. Don’t ignore your dashboard lights. Don’t wait until your car breaks down or strands you on your summer road trip!  Get things taken care of now, so you can enjoy all of your upcoming road trips with confidence. If your engine starts to overheat, turn your AC off and turn on the heat to draw the hot air away from the engine and schedule a maintenance service ASAP.

This week is Poison Prevention Week. We’ll be highlighting ways to keep your garage and vehicle organized to eliminate safety hazards due to chemicals, oil, and other fluids.  We’ve got some tips on how to dispose of them safely, how to best clean up those messes, and even how to keep your pets out of harm's way in the garage.  Check it out on today’s blog! Tips to Keeping Your Garage Safe from Chemicals and Hazardous Wastes Old batteries have a risk of corrosion and leaks, and properly disposing of them at designated waste collection sites can prevent injury and environmental damages.  Bring old or used car batteries to your local recycling center instead of storing them in your garage. Some local auto parts stores may even have a battery drop-off program. When changing your oil, use a drain pan and collection bucket to catch the fluids as they’re released. Bring them to your local designated hazardous waste disposal facility or recycling center immediately.  If you’ve spilled oil in your garage, you can use an oil absorbent mat, a substance like Oil-Dri, or the standby of kitty litter. Pour liquids such as coolant or brake fluid or other contaminated fluids into a bucket or bin of kitty litter. It will absorb the liquid, and make it easier to transport to the waste facility. If you’ve spilled fluids, you can absorb the spill with clay cat litter, play sand, cornmeal, cornstarch, or even baking soda.  Apply one of these substances over the spill stain immediately, and this will help prevent it from seeping into the concrete or pavement of your garage. Let’s learn how to safely dispose of and recycle Used Oil and Other Fluids from your Vehicle thanks to 1A Auto on YouTube: Keeping Fido and Fluffy Safe from Hazards in the Garage If you’re anything like us, you love having your faithful furry friends by your side in anything you do, but did you know that there are plenty of dangers to be found in your household garage? Things you may not expect can pose hazards to our canine and feline companions, as well as others!  We’re going to help you find ways to keep those little critters out of trouble, identify hazards to put far out of reach, and how to keep them safe if they get into your garage. Never leave your pets unattended in a garage. Garages can become extremely hot or extremely cold quite rapidly.  This can cause temperature related illnesses such as heat stroke or frostbite.  Make sure that if your pet is spending extended periods in a garage, it’s always by your side. Even if you’ve provided heating/cooling and adequate ventilation or water, it is not safe to leave your pets inside. There are numerous chemical liquids with corrosive properties that can cause burns, digestive upsets, or even fatalities if ingested by our pets.  Be sure that antifreeze, gasoline, motor oil, insect sprays, paints, cleaners, herbicides, soil bags, polishing solutions, wiper fluid, and other liquids are stored in their original containers and tightly sealed. Store them up and away from prying paws and nosy sniffers.  Clean up all spills and leaks immediately after they happen.  Keep your pets out of the way if you’re performing fluid changes or top-offs so they do not drink or lick any spills. Keep tools and batteries up and off the floor, and do not allow pets to lick them or chew on them. They’re at risk for serious injury, electrocution, and even death. Utilize airtight and locking storage items.  Place small items into lidded plastic bins that have child-lock features.  All tools and ephemera should be placed into toolkit boxes and locked securely so that your pet cannot get into it, knock it down, or open it to see what “forbidden snacks” are inside. Keep garbage and waste bins secured. Pets love to sniff and explore inside trash cans, garbage bags, recycling bins, etc, so it’s important you keep them stowed safely to reduce risk of suffocation by bags or other serious injury due to ingestion or otherwise. Clean the garage floor thoroughly when you’re working on your projects and regular vehicle maintenance.  Even residual waste from chemicals, solvents, or soaps can pose a threat if licked or ingested or skin contact. Looking for local waste pickup or disposal sites in the Waukegan area? We’ve got you covered with this helpful website. Please note, some facilities or programs may have a requirement for advance registration before you can drop off your chemicals or hazardous waste items.

We know a lot of young drivers are heading out for Spring Break soon, and Summer Vacation is just around the corner from that!  That’s why today’s blog is dedicated to helpful tips for new and recently licensed drivers.  We want to see you hit the road to adventure and make the most of life, but for you to do so as safely as possible!  Check out these hints, tips, and advice from seasoned drivers to keep you and your car in tip-top shape no matter what life throws at you, and where the road takes you. Are there any more helpful suggestions you’d like to see us share for new or young drivers? Let us know in the comments below! Buying your first car so you’re ready for summer? Here are some tips to help you set your budget and prepare financially for the long haul. Determine your budget. Figure out what you can afford from money you’ve saved up, or what you can comfortably finance as recurring expenses and payments. Bear in mind that it costs about $7-$10k on average to maintain your car depending on the vehicle.  That cost should cover regular maintenance/basic repairs, but you will always want to be prepared for emergencies.  If you’re purchasing a used vehicle, we recommend doing a bit of cost analysis for the make/model/year for average repairs and routine mileage maintenance. Get some insurance quotes for the vehicles you’re considering, and do a cost breakdown for different payment plans to figure out which will work best for you and your bank account.  Insurance can cost upwards of $2k or more for new and younger drivers annually. Consider your commute (to and from school or work or activities) and check the fuel economy and mileage rates for the vehicles you’re interested in. Choose the one that is more cost conscious and has better miles per gallon to save on recurring costs. Test drive all of the cars you’re considering purchasing, and bring a trusted, knowledgeable driver with you as a second opinion when inspecting a vehicle’s handling, appearance, and condition.  Make sure you’re comfortable driving the vehicle before you plunk down that change!  If purchasing preowned or used, many sellers will also allow you to take the car to your personal mechanic for a once-over to make sure it’s reliable. Add up the cost of roadside assistance plans as well as roadside emergency kits. It’s better to have coverage in case of emergency and save on costly towing fees or emergency costs. Some vehicles sold through dealerships will have special plans that cover drivers in case of a vehicle collision or breaking down on the road.  Keeping an emergency bag in your car will ensure you’re prepared in a pinch!  Items like jumper cables, flares, tire repair kits can also save you time and money until help arrives.

Maybe you’ve been to Chicago regularly for work, or perhaps hit the city for a sporting event or parade, but no matter how many times you’ve visited, there’s always something new to discover!  Today we’re highlighting some unique ways to explore the city up close and personal with unique walking tours and other fun activities. Xperience Days Bike Tours of Chicago offer two different types of tours, day or night, for a 2 ½ to 3 hour cycling tour of the city!  It’s perfect for your high energy travel companions, with a gorgeous outdoor experience of the city on the Linoln Park Tour.  that tour stops by the Chicago LAkefront, Navy Piere, Lincoln Park Zoo, North Avenue Beach, and the Conservatory. The Night Tour takes you down the Magnificent Mile for gorgeous, sparkling views of the Chicago Skyline, stops at Crown Fountain, and fireworks at Navy Pier!  Even Chicago natives are raving about how fun and interesting these locally guided tours are, so you know they’re great! Bobby's Bike Hike Tours of Chicago have been the USA’s longest running bike tour company, and offer a wide variety of bike and walking tours of the Chicago area.  No matter your age or skill level, there’s a tour for you!  You’ll get a new perspective on the Chicago Metro Area, learn about its history, and have some delicious local Chicago Favourites to eat. Bikes, Bites, and Brews by Bobby’s Bike Hikes offer a cycling tour of Chicago’s best neighborhoods and top eateries! You’ll take in the sights, learn about local history, and chow down on the most delicious grub including pizza, hot dogs, cupcakes, and beer! Bike rental, helmet rental, water bottle, and samples of food are included in the cost. Chicago’s West Side Foodie Bike Tour is a half-day cycling experience through the city exploring Chicago’s architecture while stopping off for some incredible food tastings.  You’ll experience a wide variety of local ethnic foods and drinks, and all tastings and drinks are included in your rental price.  From Polish food to Mexican food to locally crafted chocolate and more, you’ll have a blast! Free Chicago Walking Tours are led by local guides who know the neighborhoods inside and out for free public tours or reasonably priced paid private tours for groups of more than 6 and up to 20!  (Tipping your guide is recommended, especially on the free options.)  This group’s tours are perfect for those who do not want to do endurance training via sightseeing, because they’re just 1 to 3 miles in distance!  It’s the perfect option for those with kids and teens, because it’s just the right amount of time.  It’s a great way to make new friends and socialize with locals and tourists alike.  Click here to learn more about upcoming tours or schedule a private group! Bizarre Bucktown is where it’s at if you’re looking for interesting, quirky, and memorable experiences of Chicago.  It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve been to the city, you’ve never seen it like this!  On your 90 minute walk with a small, intimate group of folks, you’ll learn about the history and hauntings of Bucktown and Wicker Park.  Tickets are just $15 per person, but the memories are priceless; click here to book your tour! Chicago Prohibition Tours in Chicago offers both bus guided and walking tours exploring Chicago’s storied history during The Prohibition Era.  You’ll visit many of the area’s historic speakeasies, and become a “scofflaw” as you learn about the history of politics, gangsters, and Prohibition crimes.  You’ll love that it’s coupled with great food and drinks along the way on your 3 hour trek or 2 ½ hour bus tour. Chicago Architectural Center Tours offers a 90-minute walk through tour highlighting the most famous buildings in Chicago, and the history and stories behind their inspiration and design.  This wonderful nonprofit organization aims to inspire new generations of architects and designers. The city also has numerous options for walking, bus, or boat architecture tours if you are further inspired by the CAC’s exhibits and programs Chicago Detours Walking Tours offer a personal and up close look at the different neighbourhoods around Chicago!  You will be invited to learn about the history, food, and culture of the city while connecting with local businesses and enjoying some sightseeing.  You’ll take “the roads less traveled” and explore the city from a local’s perspective, and see the city like never before.

March is Disability Awareness Month!  If you’re an able bodied 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, such as various accessibility needs to improve on roadways, adapting vehicles, accessible public transport, and related topics. Let’s Talk About Disability! Did you know that WHO has estimated that more than 1 billion people are experiencing significant disability on a global scale? That means that about 16% of the world’s population, or 1 in every 6 people, experiences some form of disabling condition. In the United States alone, that number increased to 26%, meaning 1 in 4 people has a disability (2022 Bureau of Labor Statistics.)  Decreased mobility is one of the most common disabilities, along with motor impairments. Let’s learn about disability, terminology, representation, and accessibility from the disability community: What about accessibility in transportation? For drivers with disabilities, special vehicle modifications can be made to your already existing vehicle, but in some cases a vehicle may need to be more heavily modified and tailor made to the specific needs of someone with mobility aids. These adaptive technologies allow disabled drivers and passengers to access their vehicle and be independent of rideshares, transport, or caregivers/chauffeurs.  Adaptive equipment can include modified hand controls to help steer and operate the vehicle or enable turn/brake signals (push-pull, knobs, spinners, etc.); foot control modifications to the accelerator and brake pedal; assistive support straps and/or rings to assist entering and exiting a vehicle; specialized doors and hatchbacks; seat belt modifications for mobility, posture, and size; ramps or lifts for wheelchair users, and seat modifications for mobility issues and transferring from wheelchairs. Drivers may also attend special Driver Rehabilitation Training to learn how to use their adaptive devices, or how to drive/steer/operate a vehicle with a different limb than is typical of abled drivers.  You may explore more details around each very specific need and purpose for these adaptations via this fabulous guide, as well as other pertinent info on driver rehabilitation, adaptive driving evaluations, and what vehicle makes/models are most accommodating to adapting! When it comes to navigating streets and roadways as a disabled pedestrian, there are a number of things to consider when it comes to road traffic safety in our vehicle-centric world. “Complete Streets'' policies are a series of accessibliity needs that should be met in order to afford the most access to disabled citizens and travelers.  These concepts include increased pedestrian infrastructures such as sidewalks, crosswalks, accessible signals for visually impaired people, median crossing islands; traffic management in the form of speed humps, speed tables, clear signage, traffic lights and blinking signals; clear and dedicated bike lanes and bike parking; dedicated bus lanes, accessible bus shelters, etc. Many roadways and sidewalks are inaccessible to pedestrians, requiring them to be in harm's way and increasing risk that vehicles may have collisions. Things such as inadequate sidewalks; broken, unpaved, or cracked sidwealks and pavement; lack of curb cutouts or ramps or texture on corners for visually impaired individuals; sidewalk obstacles (think outdoor dining blocking wheelchair or mobility device access); bench obstacles and lack of seating while waiting for rideshares or public transportation; push buttons for traffic lights and cross signals being at wheelchair accessible heights; verbal and audible signals for safe crossing or traffic lights for visibly impaired pedestrians. Transportation and mobility accessibility are important civil rights issues for disabled and able bodied individuals; by increasing access to safe, affordable, and reliable transportation we create equity and equal opportunity for everyone!  By creating more accessible cities, increasing accessibility to public transportation and mass transit, and safer waiting areas for rideshare users, we can improve the experience and accessibility for disabled drivers and pedestrians. Here are some great examples of adaptive controls and accessibility in action: Talking about disability with kids and teens:

The weather outside is still a touch frightful, but never fear because spring is almost here. This March has rolled in like a lion all across the country, but we anticipate it will prance out gently like a little lamb. Speaking of lambs, you know the sort who love to roam prairies, fields, and graze amidst the flowers… you can follow in their footsteps by strolling through beautiful botanical gardens and nature parks! Today, we’re sharing our picks for beautiful conservatories, curated landscapes, nature preserves, and other magnificent botanical facilities across the state of Illinois.  Fancy yourself a little road trip? We’ve also included the distance mileage to our best estimate, so you can plan your route for a little weekend getaway or day trip as you see fit! The Chicago Botanic Garden - About 20 miles from Classic’s Dealership This gorgeous botanical garden is perfect for a few hours stroll through its 27 gardens over 385 acres to appreciate the collection of rare, tropical, and local plants and flowers.  It’s the perfect backdrop for snapping a selfie or two, and great for the avid photographer who wants to hone their nature photography skills.  The garden is open daily all year round, but the hours do change seasonally.  In addition to the permanent collections and displays, there are also special events, rotating exhibitions, and artwork to enjoy! The Morton Arboretum - About 50 miles from Classic’s Dealership This beautiful space is a public garden and outdoor museum with a library, herbarium, and Center for Tree Science research facility.  Every Wednesday the arboretum offers discounted admission, and there are free timed-entry admissions on certain holidays (check the calendar for more info!)  The arboretum is perfect for a leisurely stroll or stop by on one of the special events days for music, lectures, and so much more!  There are 16 miles of hiking trails open 265 days a year, so you can explore more than 200,000 plants just about any time! Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens Rockford - About 100 miles from Classic’s Dealership This beautiful facility is the third largest conservatory in the state, with an impressive 11,000 square feet of indoor space to observe tropical plants and flowers, a fully landscaped lagoon, and beautiful sculptures.  Stroll through these beautiful gardens or check out the permanent and rotating educational exhibits and unique events, or take a peek at the calendar to see what seasonal displays are currently offered. Monticello Sculpture Gardens at Lewis and Clark Community College - About 310 miles from Classic’s Dealerships Each year the Monticello Sculpture Garden at Lewis and Clark Community College announces a new theme, and this year’s theme is “Discover Monticello Sculpture Gardens” in celebration of their 10 year anniversar and inspired by the college’s rebranding campaign.  Tours are available for free between 9AM and 3:30 on Monday through Friday!  Your group will learn about the history of Lewis and Clark and the former Monticello’s Women’s Seminary, what steps are being taken to preserve the original buildings, learn about the artists and inspiration behind the sculpture installations, and explore the plants, lily pond, and fountains. Mabery Gelvin Botanical Gardens in Mahomet - About 180 Miles from Classic’s Dealership This incredible oasis is located inside of the Woods Forest Preserve. What originally began as a small garden outside the Museum of the Grand Pararie has since grown into eight rolling acres of gorgeous green grasses, cascading waterfalls, rock gardens, and truly magical blossoms.  It’s full of scenic areas that are perfect for some romantic couples portraits, or of course, a colorful spring selfie! Wandell Sculpture Garden in Urbana - About 180 miles from Classic’s Dealerships 22 beautiful acres of sculptural wonders and gardens are nestled inside the 130 acres of Meadowbrook Park’s tallgrass prairie grounds.  The park just celebrated its 25th year running since Celia and Willet Wendell established a local nature trust!  Now through September of 2023, the park is hosting lots of fun, unique, and educational events as part of its quarter century anniversary. The Gardens at SIUE Edwardsville - About 300 miles from Classic’s Dealership Located on the grounds of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville campus, what started as an arboretum now occupies 35 acres.  It’s rife with emerald green fields, treelined paths, student-designed sculptures, bridges, and beautiful flower gardens.  Hours change seasonally, so you’ll want to check the posted calendar. Other notable destinations include: Regenstein Center in Gelncoe - 20 miles from Classic’s Dealership Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park in Skokie - 35 miles from Classic’s Dealership Oak Park Conservatory in Oak Park - 45 miles from Classic’s Dealership The Sculpture Park in Schaumburg - 45 miles from Classic’s Dealership Linmar Gardens in Galena - 180 miles from Classic’s Dealershpi West Street Sculpture Park in Galena - 180 miles from Classic’s Dealership Luthy Botanical garden in Peoria - 190 miles from Classic’s Dealership Quad City Botanical Center in Rock Island - 200 miles from Classic’s Dealership Ana Bethel Fisher Rock Garden in Decatur - 225 miles from Classic’s Dealership Mandala Gardens in Marion - 400 miles from Classic’s Dealership How Botanical Gardens Lead to Innovations, TEALEAVES on YouTube:

Today is March 10th, also known as Mar10 Day celebrating all things Super Mario and Nintendo!  We’ve rounded up our picks for super fun gear to deck out your car in Nintendo themed accessories to add a little flair and personality to your vehicle. But first, here’s some fun facts to impress your friends and family today! There are 14 different games in the Mario Kart series?  6 of these games are for home console, 3 are for handheld console, 4 arcade games, and 1 mobile version. Nintendo first got its start as a playing card and board game company, first founded in 1889.  They moved into video games with Donkey Kong in the 1970s. The original NES console (aka Nintendo Classic) was so popular in Japan that it wasn’t discontinued until 2003, a whopping 20 years after its initial release date. By December of 2022, more than 120 million switches have been sold! The iconic Mario’s design was born of necessity as much as it was a design for iconography.  Since the original NES tech was so limited, the hat was added to cover up hair that couldn’t be rendered in pixels, the white gloves were to enable a player to more easily see his arms move, and the iconic mustache and hat were added because of limited pixels allowed on screen for defining features. These adorable Super Mario Car Seat Belt Covers are great for kids (and the kid at heart!)  Encourage your family to get on board with vehicle safety by giving them these Mario and Luigi themed seatbelt covers! Currently on sale for $13.99 (at the time of writing this article) We are obsessed with this Super Mario inspired steering wheel cover. It’s perfect for keeping your hands comfy on long drives, and from the cold in the winter and heat in the summer. It fits most sedans and SUVs, but you’ll want to double check your vehicle just to be sure. It’s a bargain at $14.99 (at the time of writing this article.) Add a little joy to your car with this blueberry scented Super Mario air freshener! Bold, bright colors and familiar characters will make you smile and keep your “Kart” smellin’ fresh and clean. Just $9.99! Take your games on the road safely with the TFY Car HEadrest Mount for Nintendo Switch and other tablets. Fits nicely to the back of your vehicle’s headrest for less than $25!  Perfect for family and friends road trips. Keep all of your important documents stored safely and securely in your glovebox. These convenient travel pouches are great for stowing away your registration and insurance cards, as well as your vehicle manual and other items. Perfect as well for keeping a few emergency medical supplies like bandaids, first aid cream, etc. or even a few pens and pencils on the go. A bargain for $14.95 This Mario Evolution Sun Shade is sure to bring the smiles to passersby in the parking lot at the office or the store! PheeNixBoutique on Etsy is selling these custom shades for $44. Super Nintendo Controller inspired car coasters will keep your cupholders neat, clean, and tidy! Great gift ideas for the gamer who has everything. Just $15.95 for the pair on MommiesCreationsLLC via Etsy. Accessorize your ride and let everyone know how much you love gaming with these charming Mini Nintendo Switch JoyCon Vent clip holders for your car! A mere $7 from WhimsicalByMily on Etsy! The Just4FunShopCo on Etsy has these super fun little Yoshi Vinyl Decal stickers that are great on your car (or laptop or water bottle) and they’re a bargain at just $5.37 and up, depending on your choice of size. Any Mario Kart aficionado will chuckle when they see this threatening banana peel decal!  Sold by FiftyEightDesigns on Etsy, it comes in a few color options and sizes for you to choose from.  Starting at $4.57 and up. Watch these YouTubers play Real Life Mario Kart: