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Sporty New Design with Sleek Silhouette, Larger Wheels and Modern Interior Most Fuel-Efficient Prius Ever with up to 57 MPG Combined Manufacturer Rating More Powerful Hybrid System Delivers 60% More Horsepower with up to 196hp Upgraded Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive Available Toyota Audio Multimedia Standard with Available 12.3-inch Touchscreen Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 System Standard more DEL MAR, Calif. (Dec. 14, 2022) – The Toyota Prius enters the 2023 model year as a completely transformed model. With a sleek new exterior design, a reimagined interior and an amped up hybrid powertrain, this new Prius is built for style, performance and efficiency. It is the hybrid reborn – without compromise. Designed to capture drivers’ hearts at first glance, this all-new 2023 Prius brings sporty style with a coupe-inspired shape. Its sleek silhouette, low roofline, smooth body panels and widened rear are proportionally balanced by available 19-inch wheels and the interior features a clean, modern design combined with high tech displays and ambient lighting. Altogether, it’s a progressive, sporty new Prius, that’s designed to inspire the senses. Under the hood the 2023 Prius also shakes things up, with a larger 2.0L engine and a revised hybrid system that brings over 60% more combined system horsepower. For this new generation of Prius, output climbs to 196 net hp on AWD equipped models, increased from 121 hp in the prior generation, and 194 net hp on FWD equipped models, previously 121 hp. Maximum engine torque for this generation climbs nearly 16%, up from 120 to 139 lb.-ft. on all models. Torque on electric motor generator two, which drives the front wheels and regenerates the battery during braking, also increases by over 20% – climbing from 120 to 152 lb.-ft. Prius makes its power gains while keeping it lean at the pump. In FWD models, the LE grade offers up to a manufacturer estimated 57 MPG combined rating, the best-ever for a Prius and the most fuel-efficient hybrid in production for model year 2023. The XLE and Limited grades offer up to 52 MPG combined. The AWD equipped LE grade delivers up to a manufacturer estimate 54 MPG combined rating, with the XLE and Limited grades are capable of up to 49 MPG combined. The AWD system also receives power upgrades, with 50% more torque in the rear motor, moving from 41 to 62 lb.-ft., and 40 horsepower (previously 7 hp). As part of Toyota’s diverse approach to carbon neutrality, the Prius is an iconic player in Toyota’s effort to move “beyond zero.” With nine hybrid models, soon to be 10 with the addition of the all-new Toyota Crown, two plug-in hybrid models, the new bZ4X battery electric vehicle and the zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell Mirai, Toyota offers 14 electrified vehicles for customers to choose from. As part of that lineup, the 2023 Prius will be the first Toyota vehicle to wear a new “Beyond Zero” badge, symbolizing Toyota’s global effort to achieve carbon neutrality in its products, manufacturing and beyond. The all-new 2023 Prius will be available in a choice of six colors, including Wind Chill Pearl, Cutting Edge, Guardian Gray, Midnight Black Metallic, Supersonic Red or Reservoir Blue. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, excluding Dealer Processing and Handling, will start at $27,450 for the LE grade. 2023 Toyota Prius models are expected to arrive at Toyota Dealerships in January 2023. Sporty Yet Comfortable Built on the second-generation TNGA-C platform, the 2023 Prius brings a new look that’s both cool and functional. The TNGA-C platform has a lower center of gravity, reduced weight and increased rigidity compared to the previous generation. The result? A wider stance and a lower driving position that feels nimble, yet comfortable. Designed in Japan, the all-new Prius offers a style that is modern, progressive and smart from the inside out. This time it lowers the roofline 2-inches from the prior generation, for a more athletic look. Moving to the rear of the vehicle it is nearly 1-inch wider, adding a launch-ready flair to its modern style. Completing the low-slung feel is a hip point that is about one inch lower than the previous generation Prius. With its piercing silhouette that evokes a level of aerodynamic flair, the 2023 Prius has a 0.27 Coefficient of Drag (Cd). Just like in previous generations, front grille shutters have been installed to optimize the inflow of air, contributing to cooling and aerodynamic performance. Aero stabilizing under body panels are also in place to reduce drag and road noise. The larger wheels available on XLE and Limited also catch the eye – resulting in sport-inspired proportions that offer drivers added performance and handling. Coupled with the larger wheels are 11-inch brake rotors on the front and rear, adding one-inch to the prior generation model. The interior also has an all-new look with a clean, modern design that minimizes eye and body movement. A new multi-information display is mounted directly in front of the driver to help keep eyes on the road and a standard 8-inch or available 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen is mounted within easy reach. Drivers and passengers alike will enjoy increased comfort from improved seating construction. Designers have enlarged the area that comes in contact with the body on the seat bottom, creating a shape that disperses weight across the seats to reduce sitting pressure. For added comfort, the XLE grade includes standard heated seats, and the Limited grade adds standard heated and cooled seats, with optional heated rear seats. ADD TO CART DOWNLOAD WEB RESOLUTION DOWNLOAD HIGH RESOLUTION ADD TO CART DOWNLOAD WEB RESOLUTION DOWNLOAD HIGH RESOLUTION And for a bit of fun, Toyota’s design team has placed Easter eggs both inside and outside the vehicle. Secret locations with the Prius name, and other phrases, add a unique bit of detail to this new generation car. Exact locations are a mystery that only Prius drivers can solve. A Driver’s Hybrid Under the hood of the 2023 Prius is the 5 th generation hybrid powertrain, which pairs the inline M20A-FXS inline four-cylinder 2.0L gas engine with two motor-generators through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission. A new compact high-output/low-loss drive motor for the transaxle/motor uses a redesigned magnet and electromagnetic steel plate configuration, with two additional magnets for increased output. The engine, working in concert with the electric motor (MG2), assures responsive performance, while exemplary energy efficiency is achieved by using both electric motors (MG1 and MG2) to charge a lithium-ion battery. The result is an engaging acceleration experience with 194 combined hybrid system horsepower and an estimated 0-60 time of 7.2 seconds for Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) equipped models, a 26% improvement over the 9.8 second time of the outgoing FWD model. Another boost to Prius’ fuel efficiency comes from the Electronically Controlled Brake (ECB) system, which coordinates operation between the regenerative braking force of the electric motors and the hydraulic braking system force to provide optimal stopping power. By proactively using the electric motors to recover as much electrical energy as possible from the regenerative braking system, this extremely efficient cooperative control helps to maximize fuel economy. An active hydraulic booster on the conventional (non-regenerative) braking system improves pedal feel and feedback for the driver. Brake Hold also comes standard, when engaged it is a convenient technology that reduces driver effort while waiting at a traffic light or while driving in heavy traffic. When the driver presses the accelerator, Brake Hold releases instantly. Prius also offers EV mode, which allows the vehicle to be operated as a pure electric vehicle for short distances, depending upon certain conditions, such as battery charge level. This mode is useful for operating the vehicle in parking lots or indoor parking garages, for example. The Vehicle Proximity Notification feature alerts pedestrians of the vehicle’s presence when running in battery mode. Drive modes include: NORMAL: Allows the hybrid system to achieve an ideal combination of fuel economy and vehicle acceleration. The accelerator opening amount changes linearly in response to accelerator pedal operation. ECO: Improves hybrid system efficiency by limiting power in response to light to moderate accelerator pedal input. SPORT: Enhances dynamic performance and acceleration AWD at the Ready An updated Electronic On-Demand AWD system gives the new Prius the capability to deliver added traction for slippery road conditions while also offering exemplary fuel economy. The updated system uses a motor to drive the rear wheels, enabling stable driving performance when starting off, when driving on slippery road surfaces and to assist while cornering. As on other Toyota Hybrids with AWD, like Highlander, RAV4 and Corolla, Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive employs a separate rear-mounted electric motor to power the rear wheels when needed. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Prius models have a 196 combined system horsepower and a manufacturer estimated 0-60 time of 7.0 seconds. The torque of the rear motor has also increased, moving from 41 lb.-ft. to 62 lb.-ft., a 50% improvement over the prior system. A high-output IPM (Interior Permanent Magnet) motor that drives the rear wheels allows for a compact design that enhances the low traction road climbing performance and the stability when turning. The system works seamlessly and transparently, preemptively distributing driving force to the rear wheels to help suppress front wheel slip during off-the-line starts. It also engages the rear motor in response to slippage at the front wheels and enhances cornering agility by helping to reduce understeer. The Electronic On-Demand All-Wheel Drive system performs precise electronic control of the front-rear torque distribution in accordance with the driving conditions to support start-off acceleration, handling, stability and fuel efficiency. This motor-driven AWD system is capable of efficiently using the battery power for driving the front and rear wheels. Data from the wheel speed sensors and G-force sensors is processed by the vehicle computer system and sent to the rear motor as electrical signals to control the rear wheel torque. The system provides the optimal front-rear torque distribution based on the vehicle speed and accelerator operation amount and performs control according to the conditions to allow stable driving. ADD TO CART DOWNLOAD WEB RESOLUTION DOWNLOAD HIGH RESOLUTION ADD TO CART DOWNLOAD WEB RESOLUTION DOWNLOAD HIGH RESOLUTION Making the Grade The 2023 Prius will be offered in three grades: LE, XLE and Limited. Standard colors include the all-new Cutting Edge and Guardian Gray, Midnight Black Metallic and Reservoir Blue. Available premium paint colors include Supersonic Red and Wind Chill Pearl. All Prius hybrid grades come in a choice of Front Wheel Drive or All Wheel Drive. The LE grade has standard dark grey 17-inch alloy wheels with wheel covers, an 8-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen and 6-way adjustable fabric front seats in black or grey, with fabric in the rear. Additional standard features include six USB-c ports, Electronic Parking Brake (EPB), SofTex steering wheel and Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA). Optional features include Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking (PA w/AB). The XLE grade comes with everything on the LE grade and adds standard 19-inch alloy wheels and 8-way adjustable heated power driver’s SofTex seat in standard in black or grey. It also comes with standard rain-sensing wipers, smart key, wireless charger and front and rear parking assist with automatic braking (PA w/AB). Available options include a 12.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, fixed glass roof and Digital Key. The Limited includes all standard LE and XLE features and adds a standard 12.3-inch JBL Premium Audio touchscreen display, fixed glass roof, SofTex heated and ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, power rear liftback and Digital Key (which comes as part of the one-year trial to Toyota Remote Connect). Available options are Panoramic View Monitor, Digital Rearview Mirror, heated rear seats and Advanced Park, which executes necessary steering and braking controls and helps drivers navigate the vehicle into a selected parking space. It’s capable of parallel parking and backing up into a perpendicular space by using a combination of cameras and sensors to recognize the vehicle’s surroundings. Convenient and Connected The all-new 2023 Toyota Prius is equipped with the tools to make life more convenient – thanks to the available 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia system designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based Connected Technologies team. Prius drivers will also have the opportunity to access a wide range of enhanced connectivity and convenience features, including Over-the-Air (OTA) updates. Users can interact with the system through intuitive touch and voice activation controls. With the available Connected Service Drive Connect, drivers and passengers have access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation and Destination Assist. With Intelligent Assistant, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awaken the system for voice activated commands to search for directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. Cloud Navigation, the available onboard navigation solution, utilizes the cloud to download the latest available map, traffic and routing information. To ensure users have the most up-to-date search capabilities, POI search is provided by Google Points-of-Interest data. Destination Assist also gives access to 24/7 live agent assistance to locate the next destination. The new Toyota Audio Multimedia allows for dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity, with support for standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. With further connectivity, the Prius has a standard Wi-Fi Connect 1-month trial that offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices – turning the Prius into an AT&T Hotspot. Adding to the already robust offering of audio playback ability with HD Radio®, USB data and a SiriusXM® Platinum Plan 3-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect also enables the new Integrated Streaming feature, providing customers the ability to link their separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle for onboard control. For those looking for an enhanced audio experience, the Prius offers a JBL® Premium Audio system with eight speakers, creating a mobile concert from any music genre. Standard on the Limited grade only, with the use of Clari-Fi® technology, the system is also able to breathe life into compressed digital music formats enhancing the audio experience. Each Prius offers a host of additional available Connected Services. Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification and Stolen Vehicle Locator with up to a 10-year trial. Service Connect gives drivers the ability to receive Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders, also with up to a 10-year trial. With the Toyota app, users can stay connected to their Prius with Remote Connect capabilities. A one-year trial of Remote Connect comes on XLE and Limited grades equipped with the 12.3-inch display. Users can activate headlights, lock/unlock the doors and remotely start the vehicle. Users can also check vehicle status, receive reminder notifications and set Guest Driver Alerts. Digital key is also available with Remote Connect for the XLE and Limited Grades – making it easy to lock and unlock doors, remote start and more all from a smart phone. Ready to handle all your device charging needs, the Prius is equipped with six USB ports in the cabin. Up front, two Type-C USB ports at the bottom of the center stack plus two more Type-C USB ports in the center console. For second-row passengers, two Type-C USB ports are located at the bottom rear of the center console. Convenience features are aplenty for Prius, too. Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) is standard on all grades. Safe Exit Assist, detects vehicles and bicycles approaching from the rear and alert an occupant when they exit the vehicle, helping to avoid or mitigate collisions with the door. Front and Rear Parking Assist with Automatic Braking is available on all grades. A Panoramic View Monitor is available on Limited and provides a live rotating 360-degree view around the vehicle. Advanced Park is available on Limited, a hands-free system designed to assist you with parallel parking or backing into a parking space. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 Standard For 2023, Prius will come standard with the latest Toyota Safety Sense generation, TSS 3.0. This suite of active safety systems includes the existing feature set available on the prior generation Prius but includes some additional enhancements and capabilities. This suite of safety features includes: Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control Lane Tracing Assist Road Sign Assist Automatic High Beams Proactive Driving Assist Proactive Driving Assist is new to Prius and the Toyota Safety Sense package. When system operating conditions are met, using the vehicle’s camera and radar, this system provides gentle braking into curves or gentle braking and/or steering to help support driving tasks such as distance control between a preceding vehicle, pedestrian or bicyclist. Proactive Driving Assist is not a substitute for the Pre-Collision System and operates in different circumstances. The rest of the Toyota Safety Sense feature set has been enhanced for TSS 3.0: The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection has enhanced detection capabilities thanks to new system sensors. It receives enhanced intersection support with improved detection capability in certain circumstances. It also adds the capability to detect motorcyclists, in addition to bicyclists and pedestrians. Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist has enhanced lane recognition that includes detection of certain 3D objects, like guardrails, that may be used to help define the lane. Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control adds a fourth following distance setting, from the previously available three. Enhanced vehicle detection allows for the ability to detect more than one preceding vehicle, as well as vehicles in adjacent lanes. This helps the system to provide smoother, more natural speed adjustments, especially when the driver changes lanes. Like Lane Departure Alert, lane recognition is enhanced for Lane Tracing Assist. This system now also helps provide more space between vehicles being passed in adjacent lanes. It works by offsetting the vehicles’ driving path with minor steering adjustments while keeping the vehicle within its lane. An Emergency Driving Stop System has been added to Lane Tracing Assist. It’s designed to monitor the driver’s inputs, such as steering operation, to determine if they’re inattentive or non-responsive, such as during a medical emergency. This feature can bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver doesn’t respond to alerts to take control. Road Sign Assist gets expanded sign detection capabilities that now include certain intersection signs and warning signs, like pedestrian crossings. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* RELATED MEDIA RELATED IMAGES RELATED VIDEOS About Toyota Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 60 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships. Toyota directly employs more than 39,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 32 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, a quarter of the company’s 2021 U.S. sales were electrified. To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to virtually visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

Today is National Hot Tea Day!  What could be better on a cold winter’s day than a piping hot cup o’ tea? There’s just something so effortlessly comforting about sipping a fresh brew under a cozy blanket.  It’s even great for thawing out after clearing the snow off your car as you head out for your morning commute. And since February is just around the corner, we thought we’d keep it festive!  These mugs and tea makers are a great idea for snuggling up to your special someone next month for Valentine’s Day. more They’re also a fun option to give to your bestie or coworker as a Palentine’s Day gesture!  (Of course, there’s also never a bad time to treat yourself, so we’re not going to stop you.)  So today we’re sharing our picks for great travel mugs, portable tea infusers, and travel-friendly tea kettles. The portable and colorful Hydro Flask Mug comes in multiple sizes for your convenience, and you can add your personal flair by choosing one of 6 different colorways. Choose from 6 oz, 12oz, and 24oz options, all under $35! The S’well Stainless Steel Tumbler keeps drinks cold or hot, and comes in some pretty fun color and pattern options for under $40, and are built with sustainability in mind as much as aesthetics. The YETI Rambler Tumbler comes in 10, 20, and 30oz sizes, comes in multiple colorways, offers replaceable magsliders, has customizable options, and is cup holder compatible!  What more could you ask for at a price under $40. The BruMate Toddy travel mug has a convenient handle and lid and touts itself as 100% leak proof, which we think is a real steal at just $30! Teabloom offers a wonderful beverage tumbler that is insulated and includes an extra-fine 2 way infuser insert!  Use your tumbler for cold or hot beverages, and infuse them with flavor from tea, herbs, or even fruit.  Prefer coffee? No problem! You can also make delicious cold brew with it!  And it won’t break the bank, priced just under $30! The Teami Tea Tumbler doubles as an infuser bottle, so you can create tea blends or fruit-infused water!  It’s also great in the hotter months for iced tea or smoothies.  Another great option under $30! Take your show on the road with this travel friendly foldable electric tea kettle from Neme! Comes in three different color options for under $40 and is a great choice for chilly weather road trips. Not only is this portable electric kettle sleek looking and fun, but it’s also incredibly efficient!  It’s small in size, boils in 5 minutes, and has a leak proof seal to prevent spills.  We love its budget friendly price of just under $40, too! Leaving you a little extra for some fancy teas.

Our Body Shop Manager fields a lot of calls and texts with questions about insurance coverage following an accident or collision. For today’s blog we thought we’d cover some do’s-and-don’ts of selecting adequate insurance coverage, and some of the ins-and-outs of processing claims via insurance and body shops for repair. Selecting quality insurance for your vehicle can not only protect you and your car, but also your passengers, family members, and other drivers. more Budgeting for good, quality car insurance when purchasing a car can save you hundreds in costly repairs, and avoids time wasted from playing phone tag or chasing via email. When you choose a reputable insurance, you will have more flexibility in selecting your regular mechanic, or the option of having your car fixed by a professional partner shop. At Classic Auto Body - all you may need is an estimate from your insurance company & we’ll take care of the rest. With a state-of-the-art facility & some of the best equipment available, you’ll be in good hands. Beware of discounted insurance, as it usually results in less coverage than you need and major customer service hassles. The national companies might have slightly higher rates, but they are still competitive, reliable, and efficient. Here’s a recent story about a customer who was struck by a deer and his car suffered significant damage. He had his vehicle towed here. We worked with his insurance company, arranged his covered rental car, and completed the work to factory specs. His only expense was his insurance deductible. Stick with a national, reputable insurance company, and you’ll ensure that your claims are handled professionally and efficiently.

Welcome to another great edition of Classic Auto Body’s Service Tips!  Today, we’re sharing our advice for great winter weather safety and maintenance.  These seven simple steps will help you if you’re stranded in inclement weather and rapidly dropping temps, as well as seeing you’re prepared for just about anything the season can throw at you. Check it out on today’s blog! more Always keep your fuel tank at least halfway full. In the event of an emergency such as breaking down on the side of the road in frigid temps, getting stuck in a snowbank and needing a tow, or other winter-weather emergencies, it’s good to have plenty of fuel in the tank.  You’ll be able to keep yourself insulated with the heat, and be able to keep the lights on for safety without draining the battery. Keep some spare towels, blankets, and winter clothes in your car. You never know when you’re going to run into trouble in the cold weather. You may leave your office and come out to find your car buried in snow, or covered in a thick layer of ice/sleet.  Being able to change into dry, warm clothes can make a difference!  Keep an extra set of dry clothes in a waterproof bag in your trunk or cargo area. If you’re stranded with a non-running vehicle and no heat, these emergency thermal ponchos/blankets can keep you insulated and dry. Always travel with a flashlight and reflectors or flares. With the daylight hours waning earlier and darkness lasting a little longer, and it can make it harder to spot your vehicle on the side of the road. Tools such as a very bright flashligh t and extra batteries or one with a crank rechargeable option. Be sure to carry reflectors, road flares, or an emergency spotlight with you as well to enable service folk to find you when necessary! Carry a small shovel and a bag or small lidded bucket of salt. In the event you’re iced in or perhaps spinning your wheels in slush, a small portable shovel and a bit of salt can go a long way! You might be able to avoid calling roadside assistance if you’re able to just melt your troubles away. Don’t force your key into any locks that may be frozen. Instead, consider adding a de-icer to your emergency bag in the event your locks, hatchback, trunk, or doors are frozen shut!. Change to winter tires if your area calls for it, and maintain consistent tire pressure. In the winter weather, your tires are a key element in ensuring your safety in event of inclement weather or an accident during wintry conditions. Keeping a tire-pressure gauge on hand for monitoring your wheels is a great idea. Protect your windshield wipers from damage. Ensure that your car is fitted with properly working, new wiper blades before the worst of winter weather rolls in.  If you live in an area where there are very low temperature dips at night, or you park outdoors and your vehicle is exposed to icy elements, leave the windshield wipers in a raised position to prevent freezing to your windshield.  Do not use your wiper blades to remove caked-on snow or stuck on ice!  Use your snowbrush and ice scraper for the job to ensure your blades remain efficient and sturdy for driving in bad weather.  Consider also applying a coat of something like RainX, as well..  Adding a a proper de-icer fluid or all-weather or cold-weather wiper fluid can also make a world of difference.

It’s “Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month” and today we’re highlighting some great places in Illinois and neighboring cities that are just a short road trip away!  And we’re also covering some convenient ways to transport your winter sports gear in your car, truck, or SUV. more How to Efficiently Store and Pack for a Winter Sports Road Trip Have some tarps, waterproof blankets, or other protective barriers to keep your vehicle’s interior dry and free of slush, snow, and debris when you pack your snowboarding or skiing gear into the car. Keep a snowbrush on hand to dust off your boots, gear, and other accessories before you pack them into your vehicle. Packing a stack of absorbent towels on hand for melted snow and ice, and drying off any gear you’re changing out of. Garbage bags or other waterproof totes and plastic bins can keep your wet clothes or wet towels off of vehicle upholstery. Store your skis or snowboard on a roof rack on top of your vehicle or a hitch-mounted ski rack. Alternatively, a cargo box can be a great way to transport your skis or snowboarding gear, and will keep them free of muck, grime, salt, and road spray unlike a roof rack. Great Gear for Transporting Skis and Snowboards The Thule SnowPack Ski/Snowboard Rack, Large This rack can hold 6 pair of skis or 4 snowboards, and weighs about 14lbs.  It’s got added roof clearance for skis with tall bindings, and is easy to open and close with an oversized push button.  Best of all, it’s under $400. The Thule Force XT L Roof Box With 450 liters of cargo capacity, and 6 feet 3 inches in length, this roof rack is great for group outings!  It can hold 5 to 7 pairs of skis, and 3 to 5 snowboards, depending on their size.  It’s also designed for everyday use, making it easy for all-season travel. The Pelican BX85 Cargo Case, Large Saddle Case This is a great cargo accessory choice for storing your clothing, gear, and even camping supplies like food. Great Places for Winter Sports Adventures Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports Ski School in Lisle, Illinois With ski areas open to all ages and skill levels, Four Lakes Alpine has been operating for over 60 seasons and is home to some of the top downhill skiing and snowboarding trails in the area.  It’s got gorgeous panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains, too!  You can’t beat it as a great winter vacation destination. Villa Olivia in Bartlett, Illinois No matter if you’re into skiing or snowboarding, there’s something exciting in store for you at Villa Olivia!  Sign up for some of the guided classes and learn something new, or head right to the lift if you’re ready to rock!  Passes are available for regular visits, too.  Check the website for regular updates on weather conditions, but with state of the art snow-making things should be ski-ready at a moments notice even if Mother Nature won’t cooperate. Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, Illinois This ski resort has got it all!  Whether you’re looking for prime winter sports activities or you prefer watching them in 4K high definition on the big screen at a sports bar, there’s lots to do at Chestnut MMountain Resort.  Plus, it’s even got a great indoor pool and hot tub for warming up with some hot cocoa after a day on the slopes.  There are also great restaurants for dining in and refueling between your downhill runs!  It’s family friendly, but also makes a great getaway for friends or couples looking for a bit of respite. More Great Downhill Skiing and Winter Sports Destinations Snowstar in Andalusia, IL Norge Ski Club in Fox River Grove, IL Gander Mountain in Antioch, IL Sagawau Environmental Learning Center in Lemont, IL Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort in Wilmot, WI Alpine Valley Resort in Elkhorn, WI Little Switzerland in Slinger, WI Fox Hill Ski Area in West Bend, WI The Mountain Top Ski and Adventure Center at Grand Geneva in Lake Geneva, WI Sunburst Ski Area in Kewaskum, WI Sundown Mountain Resort in Dubuque, IA Pines Family Ski Area in Valparaiso, IN

It’s National Train Your Dog Month, and it couldn’t have come at a better time!  With so many people adopting dogs during the pandemic, and getting puppies over the holidays, we love that there’s a month-long event to help our furry friends be their best self! We’re going to share some local training programs, resources, and tips to help you on your journey to a “well-mannered doggo” so you can live your best life together and be “road ready”! more How to Get Your Dog Ready for Road Travel For some canine companions, a ride in the car is the greatest adventure on earth. However, some dogs may be a bit more apprehensive or downright anxious over the idea of roadway transportation.  Here’s some helpful tips to make your dog more comfortable and ready to go, wherever the road may take you! Make sure that your dog feels comfortable, safe, and secure! Distracted driving due to roaming pets is a deadly road hazard!  Keep the lives of you, your passengers, your pets, and other drivers safe by ensuring your pup is belted/buckled just as you would fellow humans. Introduce your pup to safety restraints, crates, and other car ride harnesses while indoors, and always while reinforcing positive experiences such as treats, praise, playing with their favorite toys, and physical affection (if your dog appreciates that!)  Your job here is to associate the safety gear with a happy, wonderful, enjoyable experience ahead of time so that when you’re ready to get on the road, they’re excited to use it! Crack the windows no more than a few inches, making sure your pup cannot get any paws, their nose, or any other body part out the window.  Just enough for some fresh air! Use a crate to keep them safe and sound, a grate between the front and back seat or cargo areas, or secure them with a pet-friendly seatbelt, car seat, or click their harness into a seatbelt attachment. Have a friend or family member that your dog is comfortable with sit in the back seat alongside your pal to help them remain calm and seated or lying down. Does your doggy get car sick? Here are some tips to make them more comfortable: Get them a special elevated doggy car seat so they’re positioned up higher with a view of the outside that can help them see outside and acclimate their equilibrium a bit better. Open the window just a pinch to circulate some fresh air and help them breathe more evenly. If they get car sick despite your best efforts, or perhaps a little too anxious even with acclimation and practice, you can speak to your vet about anti-nausea or anxiety medication. Does your doggy get anxious at the idea of car travel? Here are some tips that can help alleviate their stress, and help them be more comfortable with traveling: Keep early desensitization training sessions short so as not to overwhelm your pup, and provide a safe and comfortable experience in the car, and use only positive reinforcement training and never leave them unattended in the vehicle for any reason. Do not force your dog into the vehicle; be patient, work with your dog’s comfort level, and gradually build up their tolerance and provide positive methods to peak their curiosity and excitement. Let your dog explore the environment before you embark on your journey!  Facilitate a positive experience of the in the cargo area or backseat of your vehicle with a scavenger hunt for treats, and by placing their favorite toy and/or familiar bed/blanket inside while you sit in the front seat and chaperone.  Use positive reinforcement and happy praises to encourage them to enjoy the experience. Once your pup is comfortable inside the vehicle, turn on the engine and give them a treat and some more positive verbal reinforcement and praise.  Turn on the radio to some soothing music or upbeat tunes, open the windows a little (not enough for them to put their head out!) and the air vents to get them used to the sounds and smells of the car. When you and your puppy pal feel comfortable and secure with the above, you can start by slowly backing out of your parking space or driveway, and doing a trip down the block and back. Slowly increase the duration of your trips, and start off with a fun destination like a local park, a local beach, or a drive through with a pup-cup option!  Once your dog is feeling safe, secure, and no motion sickness, you are ready to hit the road comfortably and go just about anywhere! If your methods above are not working, consult a professional behaviorist and trainer to assist you with interventions and comforting training techniques. A friendly reminder: never leave your dog in the car alone for any reason, for any length of time. Many states also have legislation requiring passersby or law enforcement to break the windows of your vehicle and remove the dog to safety and you may receive a citation. Where to Start Your Search for Local Positive Reinforcement Dog Training Did you know that Waukegan Parks District runs local dog training programs? You can sign up for Puppy Dog Obedience Training Basic Dog Obedience Training, and Advanced Dog Obedience Training from $75-$90 per course. Looking for Positive Reinforcement Dog Training? Locals have had great success and experiences with these local positive training programs: Positive Partnership Training (Virtual!) Two Paws Up Dog Training in Waukegan Over the Moon Positive Dog Training Happy Hound University Dog Training in Elk Grove NorthShore Canine Academy in Wilmette The Positive Pup in Chicago

Hey there friends and neighbors, we’re here with our beloved community calendar for the LAke County and Chicago area!  You’ll find a lot of great activities and events to enjoy over the next few weeks, all just a short drive away.  Check it out on today’s blog. more Wednesday January 4th at the Wauconda Area Public Library in Wauconda, families with little ones can enjoy a special Movement Story Time from 10AM to 10:45AM with singing, dancing, and rhythmic storytelling! Thursday, January 5th from 8PM to 10PM you’ll want to head over to the Genesee Theatre in Waukegan for the “Lost N Found Film Premier” with director Yashin “Inchworm” Phillips and the cast! Thursday January 5th at the Vernon Township Community Services Building in Buffalo Grove, the JCC Chicago and CJE are hosting a free social event starting at 12PM highlighting 60 years of the Beatles! On Friday January 6th through the 8th from 8AM to 6PM, the National Kennel Club of Chicago is hosting The Great American Dog Show at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center. On Saturday January 7th from 10:30, kids through age 6 can head over to the Lake Bluff Public Library to enjoy Mystery Reader Storytime! On Saturday January 14th, the Three Brothers Theatre in Waukegan is hosting “I want a sketchopotamus” by the Masters of Sketch Sunday January 9th in lAke Forest at the RAgdale Foundation, enjoy a special concert with Chicago Symphony Orchestra Musicians from 3PM to 5:30PM in the Sybil Shearer Studio. On Monday January 9th from 12PM to 2PM at the Urban Muslim Minority Alliance Center of Waukegan, the Hope Food PAntry at UMMA is giving away special items every week, and a full bag of groceries to those in need for seniors and disabled people. On Wednesday January 11th, put your best foot forward and try something new with “Acting for Boomers” at the Gorton Center in Lake Forest from 10AM to 12PM, and enjoy this fun acting class in creative self expression! January 11th through the 15th at the McCormick Place North Building in Chicago, head over to the Chicago Boat Show! Every Wednesday, head over for a free Pranayama class online from Soul Dimension in Waukegan from 12PM to 1:15PM. January 14th at the Highland PArk Public Library from 11AM to 1PM, enjoy an open Sensory Bins playtime session for little ones! Connect with other parents and caregivers on Sunday JAnuary 15th at the Family Chat & Play event from 3:15PM on at the Clubhouse at 49 W Lake Street in Oak Park. January 25th at Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewing in Waukegan, enjoy an evening with Trivia with Lola Madison and Friends! Saturday January 28th at Dandelion Gallery & Studio in Waukegan from 4PM to 6PM it’s Paint Your Pet  night with Sandie Bacon

Welcome to the “New Year.” We love a good motivational jumpstart, and the fresh new calendar year is a great time to get to goal setting!  As we’re sure you’ve noticed, your social media timelines are flooded with “New Year, New Me!” posts, and same for every ad or radio spot.  Suggestions to turn over a new leaf and make this the year you finally get organized, decluttered, and on the ball are unavoidable.  And if you’re like us, you’re the kind of folks who love a blank page, fresh start and a clean slate, you’re going to really love today’s blog post! more For our New Year’s resolutions and goals, we’re starting with our garage and workshop, because a well-kept workspace and organized tools really does make a difference.  Clear your mind and declutter your world with our helpful hints and tips for an updated, coordinated workspace and all of the bins, keepers, and tools you’ll need to ensure your space stays in tip-top shape all year long. First up, we love this video from MWA Woodworks with 11 storage tips to inspire your own shop organization!  It doesn’t matter if you’re organizing your home workshop or a professional garage, these are great pointers that are really universal! Til Vacuum Do Us Part has a wonderful and thorough video on decluttering and organizing your garage, especially if it’s a shared space with your family or loved ones! Check it out right here for some more inspiration. We love a good budget hack and these tips from AT-AT Designs on creating the most organized garage on a super low budget does the trick! Take a look and find some more motivation here. These 23 GArage Storage and Organizational Hacks from Live Smarter are functional, practical, and frugal!  What more could you ask for? Check ‘em out here. Overwhelmed with so much to organize and tackle? Let us help! We’re breaking the organization down into bite sized pieces to make it less daunting. Check out our tips below! A Fresh Coat of Paint Can Make a World of Difference Image from Home Depot Painting your garage and workshop is an essential step that will change your life. Mess, spills, and mishaps will be a breeze to clean up with the right paint. Clear out the space and give the room a fresh coat before installing your new organizers, cabinets, and other gadgets.  We recommend giving the walls and ceiling of your garage and workspace a fresh coat of paint in a gloss or semi-gloss finish for easy cleaning.  Choose something that’s animal/kid-friendly even if you don’t have any, as these are often low-odor, fast drying, and easy-to-clean options!  A great exterior paint will hold up to just about all the elements (manmade or natural!) and make cleanup a breeze. We also recommend painting the garage floor!  Why? The answer is simple: floors with a protective coating can prevent motor oil, household chemicals, and other fluids from damaging the foundation and flooring, and keep your shop pristine for years to come. Consider hiring a professional to install and apply a polyaspartic coating on the floor, or at the very least applying a primer + sealant + paint to any concrete base.  Plus, it really brightens up the space which can be a big help when working indoors. Everything in its place: Finding the best organizational structures, cabinets, tool storage, and more! We love when a storage item can double as a functional work surface! Harbor Freight has a wonderful mobile 46” Mobile Workbench with plenty of drawers and cabinet space that fits the bill!  They’re great for planning and prepping, great for spreading out while mid-project, and even double as extra storage while you’re rearranging your space.  Use it indoors or outdoors for flexibility and versatility, and the 1200lb storage weight capacity makes it the perfect place to stash hefty tools without worry. Clean, simple, easy to use, and bright.  Those are just a few of the reasons we admire these options from WFX Utility. It has lots of options to reshuffle and reorganize your tools for easy storage and removal; great for rakes, shovels, snow scrapers, and more.  It comes with a set of hooks and bins to get you started, too. Looking for something even more simple and basic?  You can go the utilitarian route with the Holeyrail Garage Organizer without breaking the bank.  It makes a great alternative to the slatboard and pegboard options, and everything will be ready to go at your fingertips.  It’s versatile, simple to install, and best of all it’s ultra budget friendly! If your garage has lots of open wall space, consider mounting some cabinets and shelves above your workspace. Harbor Freight’s hanging tool cabinets are the perfect way to tidy your workspace and keep it looking sleek, fresh, and modern. As an added bonus, the doors lock to keep curious kiddos out of the danger zone, and to help prevent theft of your valuable tools should you forget to lock your garage. The Gladiator Garage Overhead Storage Rack gives you a fantastic way to use unconventional storage in spaces people usually overlook!  Place seasonal items up overhead when not in use, and take advantage of the space while leaving room to park your cars during inclement weather.

National Short Film Day was created to honour and celebrate the birth of “film” as an art form.  On  this day in 1895, The Lumiere Brothers revealed their collection of short films projected in front of a public audience for the very first time.  Auguste and Louis gathered 33 paying customers at the Grand Cafe in Paris, France, and presented a series of 10 short films.  Each film was only about 50 seconds long, but utterly captivated their audience!  Until that fateful December day, there had never been anything like it. more The Lumiere brothers were pioneers of photographic and early motion-picture cinematic equipment. In fact, their first projector was called the  “Cinematographe” (based off of the Kinetoscope concept) and is where we derived the word “cinema!”  The first ever motion picture captured by the brothers was titled “Workers Leaving the Lumiere Factory” and is the earliest known video recording.  The brothers captured this short movie using their Lumiere apparatus: a single camera used for photography and projecting moving images at just 16 frames per second.  They used this device to capture daily life in France, creating more than 40 films in 1896 alone!  They also pioneered the first newsreel and documentaries, thus popularizing a very modern way of delivering information.  They even sent a crew of cameraman across the globe to capture additional footage as well as show their work to new audiences. One might be able to call them the great great great grandfathers of Youtube and TikTok, if you will. Hard to believe that this incredible event over 120 years ago spawned one of the most popular forms of media entertainment. Yes, that’s right, you have the Lumiere Brothers to thank for all of your favourite car, racing, and automotive blockbusters! We’ve come a long way since then from short films to major motion pictures and blockbuster films, and the industry continues to grow by leaps and bounds.  We can even watch movies on the road in our car now!  Pretty cool, if we may say so. If you’re craving more Short Film content, we recommend browsing streaming services like HBO Max, Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. Each of these services is host to a litany of short films in multiple genres!  In addition, you can also find incredible content for free on sites like YouTube or Vimeo, and even TikTok! Short Films to Stream Right Now:

“New Year, New Me!” We’ve all heard it before, and many of us have attempted to follow through.  It can be hard to commit to a new routine and pattern, but with a little flexibility, reasonable expectations, and attainable goals?  We certainly do believe you can do it!   There’s nothing wrong with a list of reasonable resolutions, especially when they’re centered on car maintenance.   This year, why not set your goals to a small but manageable list of achievements? This will save you plenty of time and money in the long run, and certainly in the new year of 2023!  Let’s work together and keep your vehicle in tip-top shape and safe on the road with these great resolutions for car owners. more Check and Change Your Oil Regularly. You should be checking your car’s oil levels monthly, and scheduling routine oil changes at your mechanic. You should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but check the levels more frequently than that. Cease Your Penchant for Distracted Driving. Distracted Driving isn’t just about texting behind the wheel!  All sorts of things can take your attention away from the road where it belongs, and in just a moment it can change everything!  Make a goal to reduce your desires to pick up your phone, look at an app, post to social media, put on makeup or do your hair, or reach and turn behind you for something. Learn How to Change a Tire. If you don’t have a membership to AAA or your insurance doesn’t cover roadside assistance, this can be the best “trick” you’ll ever learn as a car owner. Check out this video from Bridgestone Tires for an easy lesson, or ask your local mechanic or car-enthusiast friend to show you how.  Remember to engage the parking brake for safety.  Make sure you have a spare tire, tire iron, and tire repair kit in your vehicle at all times! Learn How to Jump Start Your Vehicle. This skill is absolutely vital especially in extreme weather circumstances!  The last thing you want to deal with is being stranded due to a faulty or weak/dead battery, and attempting to learn this on the fly in the blazing heat of summer or frigid icy winter.  At the very least, remember: Red = Positive, Black = Negative.  It’s also a good idea to get a portable car battery charger in case there are not any other vehicles around, and also in case of emergency during the pandemic. Here’s an easy video lesson! Reduce Clutter and Keep Your Vehicle Clean both inside and out. We’ve all been there! You’re on the road and stop for coffee...only to realise the old one is still in your cupholder. “I’ll throw it away later” you say as you fling it into the abyss of the backseat never to be seen again.  Get on out there and tidy up that interior, right now! Throw out your old receipts from the gas station or convenience store.  Toss old or expired gift cards.  Get rid of the gunky latte cups and half-drank water bottles. Then wipe down and disinfect your car and give it a nice vacuuming!  Going into the new year, make it a resolution and a new habit to bring in a bag of trash with you each time you leave your car. Organize your vehicle’s paperwork in a safe place. Go through the glove box and center console, and make sure all of your car paperwork is in order. Request duplicate copies of your insurance and registration cards (keep one set in the car,  one in your wallet, and one in a lockbox/safe in your home.)  Make sure to log and organize your car maintenance records as well; it’s important to know the history of your car care for future reference or when selling your car to a new owner.

The holidays can be very stressful, busy, and a touch overwhelming. And for a break in all of that, we’d like to extend our heartfelt merry wishes for a glorious Festivus!  This low-pressure holiday is the perfect antidote to your woes and worries, so feel free to kick back, relax, and enjoy Festivus with the rest of us. more (image from Seinfeld TV series) If you’re new to the Festivus Celebration, don’t despair!  In just 5 Easy Steps you’ll be top Festivus Host. Acquire a Festivus Pole and decorate: Look around your home and find an aluminum pole of any size or length.  It cannot be made of any other material, according to holiday founder Frank Costanza.   It’s best to keep it as non-commercial as possible, and thus upcycling is preferred.  The pole itself should remain undecorated, but you should place it in a central viewing area.  Non-commercialism is the center of this holiday, but if you don’t have any aluminum poles lying about you can get one from FestivusPoles.com Assemble and Prepare a Festivus Dinner. Now it’s time to plan the meal! The true centerpiece of any Festivus celebration is a no-nonsense Meatloaf served on a bed of iceberg lettuce.  Just before serving your big meal, remember to place a clock inside of a bag and nail it to the wall.  Place the dinner on the table and invite all of your guests to sit down.  Not sure how to make a festivus worthy meatloaf? Try any of these suggested recipes below: Salted Soft Pretzels Turkey Chili, Crab Bisque, or Mulligatawny Soup Lettuce Wedge Salad with Large Cherry Tomatoes, and thick Carrot ribbons with your favourite choice dressing. Beef-a-Roni from a can, or a homemade Beefaroni Dupe Chocolate Babka and Cinnamon Babka Black and White Cookies Easy, No-Fuss Turkey Lettuce Wrapped Meatloaf Burgers Grilled Beef Lettuce Wraps Air your grievances. Before you start digging into your Miracle Meatloaf of choice, you must force all of your guests into listening to how they’ve failed and disappointed you.  This is a key ritual to the festivities, so make sure you really lay it all bare! Display and Participate in the Feats of Strength. This is the last and final Festivus tradition, and occurs immediately following the Festivus feast (although some do start during the meal as it winds down.  The head of the household chooses one Festivus guest, and challenges them to a wrestling match and test of strength.  The head of household must be pinned by other family members, the honor of which is given to someone seated at the main table.  Festivities do not end until the host is pinned, so choose wisely! A true Festivus celebration is not complete until the host has been pinned to the floor in a fair match. List all slightly non-routine events as celebrated Festivus Miracles. Now is the time to loudly proclaim all slightly-above-average events in your daily life as Festivus Miracles, such as “bringing in all grocery bags on one arm” or “walking up the stairs by only stepping on the first and last ones” etc.  These menial moments are now sacred and important. Raise your glass and toast a Festivus Cocktai l to these mind-blowing moments of humanity. Move over Martha Stewart, we’ve got some new Master Festivus Party Planners in town. Gather your friends together and relax for a stress-free evening of cheer and laughter with the Festivus board game. This silly board game requires you to generate your own Feats of Strength and Airing of Grievances for an interactive and endlessly entertaining experience.  The great thing about such a personalized option is that you’ll never play this the same way twice! Skip the overzealous decor of traditional holiday events, and opt instead for this low-key Festivus Pole. This hilarious gift set would be perfect for a “White Elephant” option.  Includes 4 audio clips from the famous Seinfeld episode for additional laughs. This Festivus ugly sweater ornament is the perfect cheeky decoration, and fit for any home whether you choose to adorn your Festivus Pole, Chanukah Bush, or Christmas Tree. Welcome guests to your Festivus Shindig with this glittery, cheerful banner! Wear Your Finest Festivus Sweater Festivus For the Rest of Us Aluminum Pole Sweater Seinfeld Aesthetic Festivus Sweater Festivus Pole and Feats of Strength Ugly Sweatshirt Festivus Ugly Sweater Sweatshirt with Frank

The winter solstice is fast approaching, and seasonal celebrations like Christmas, Kwanzaa, and Hanukkah are almost upon us. Today, we’re sharing some yuletide and winter themed treats and traditions you can share with your friends and family! more The Winter Solstice, also known as midwinter, happens when one of the Earth’s poles is at its furthest point of tilt from the sun.  Festivals celebrating the occurrence center around celebrating with friends and family and loved ones, enjoying feasts and banquets, lots of singing and dancing, and bonfire fun!  It marks the lengthening of days and the shortening of nights, as well.  It has many names around the globe including Midwinter, Yule, Longest Night, and Jol.  Learn more about different global solstice celebrations here. Celebrate The Winter Solstice with These Wintertime Traditions and Rituals Create a Yule Altar - A Yule Altar is created to welcome the return of the sun and the lengthening of the days. To create one, you’ll need golden, silver, or yellow candles to symbolize the sun.  Gather items that represent the winter season: pinecones, evergreen branches, pieces of cedarwood.  You’ll want to burn some sage or sweetgrass to cleanse the altar with positive intentions. Burn a Yule Log in the Fireplace or a Fire Pit or queue up a digital one - Historically, Nordic tradition was to burn a whole tree across 12 days leading up to Christmas.  Since that’s not exactly sanctioned by apartment management or condo associations (and definitely not feasible for modern hearths) the Yule Log is a popular alternative.  If you don’t have a woodburning stove/fireplace in your home, you can always cue up the digital version on Netflix (in regular or birchwood options!)  Don’t have a Netflix account? You can always bake and serve a Yule Log cake instead. Take Some Time to Meditate - Since this is the longest night of the year, set aside some time to meditate and so some soul searching. Reflect on the quiet and peace that blanket the world on snowy evenings.  Think about your goals for the upcoming year, and how you can grow as a person and focus on propelling yourself forward towards your goals.  Reminisce about the past year, and what you would like to accomplish in the new year as the world begins to thaw and usher in Spring.  Focus on being more present instead of “productivity” and how you can connect with your peers, loved ones, and yourself within your own space. Create Salt-Dough memory ornaments as a family and gift to loved ones - We love making memories together as a family, and that includes creating seasonal Salt Dough ornaments for the tree!  Whether you’re using a gluten-free salt dough recipe or the traditional kind of salt dough, it’s a lovely group activity for a cozy weekend at home. Make some holiday decorations using natural elements: Make some Orange Pomanders with your family.  Take small, firm oranges and whole cloves to create this craft.  You may use a sharp knife or citrus zester to create patterns on the orange skin (save the peel for your wassail or baking!)  Poke the cloves into the orange in pretty patterns (you can use a toothpick or chopstick to pre-make the holes for little ones! Read a Wintry Theme Book with Family and Friends -  We recommend these titles to start: “The Mitten” by Jan Brett; “The Winter Solstice” by Ellen Jackson; “The Return of the Light: Twelve Tales from Around the World for the Winter Solstice” by Carolyn McVickar Edwards; “The Solstice Badger” by Robin McFadden; “The Shortest Day: Celebrating the Winter Solstice” by Wendy Pfefer and Jesse Reisch, The Lights That Dance in the Night by Yuval Zommer; Winter Sleep: A Hibernation Story by Sean Taylor and Alex Morss with Cinyee Chiu; Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper with Kenard Park