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Classic Cares about our customers, and we’re here to help!  We’ve asked our body shop technicians to share some valuable advice and information on what to do if you’re involved in a collision.  We hope that this will help our customers feel safer and more confident in the event of an auto accident.  And remember, we’re always just a phone call away and here to help!  Check out our handy tips, and feel free to print it out and keep it in with your car’s paperwork in case of emergency. more What to if you’re involved in a collision: If you are involved in a collision, stop your car at or near the collision scene. If you can, move your car off the road so you do not block traffic. Protect yourself and others from oncoming traffic. Failure to stop at the scene of a collision in which you are involved can result in your arrest warrant. You could be convicted of hit and run. Exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident as soon as possible. Get information:  names, telephone number, drivers license and insurance information. from the other driver(s) involved in the collision. If you hit an unattended vehicle, you must make a reasonable effort to find the owner of the vehicle or property damaged in the collision. If you cannot locate anyone, leave a note with your name and contact information that can be found easily at the scene of the collision. You must also report the collision to the police. If you are at fault: Call your insurance company and start the claims process. They will walk you through every step. They should have a 1-800 # on the back of your insurance card or on their web site so you can start your claim no matter the time of day ( 24R) line. If you are not at fault: You will still need to inform your insurance company that someone else hit you as a precaution. However, you will also need to call the at fault party's insurance company and start a claim with them, and y ou will need their policy # (This is known as being the claimant.) Note: Make sure to get a claim number and have the name of your insurance number handy! Some insurance companies will write their own estimate, some will ask you to send photos in to them or use an app. If you are unsure how to use the app or send the proper photos in Contact the shop of your choosing and ask for help. ( I'd love to help) From there you can then decide on a repair facility. Note: You have the right to choose your own body shop. The insurance company probably will recommend a shop, but it is YOUR decision.  It is illegal for an insurance company to force, require or pressure you into using a particular shop. Call the shop of your choice, schedule a time and date to have the repairs estimated. Make sure to provide a claim number and insurance company. Our shop will get the estimate done, and will begin repairs upon approval from the insurance company. You don’t have to worry at all, our shop will order parts if needed and schedule anything else needed for repairs. Any questions, call Classic body shop! Classic Body Shop Toyota

Since today is National “Go To a Museum Day” we thought we’d help you get into the holiday spirit while also getting in touch with your creativity! The holidays are fast approaching, and this gift giving season might present some new challenges with supply and demand.  And then of course there’s our mountains of “pandemic purchases” to keep us all entertained indoors…. So why not forgo the material items this holiday and opt for the experience of a lifetime!  Or perhaps skip the online shopping at Big Box Retailers this year and consider shopping small instead! more Why not purchase a beautiful gift of framed artwork or a painting class or perhaps a day trip out with family to a local museum or gallery instead?  Museum or theatre memberships can also make a great family gift while also helping support our local arts scene.  Plus, it’s a great way to do a little family bonding and get out of the house so you all can enjoy a change of scenery and exercise your minds! Hop into your new car from Classic and let’s hit the road! So what are you waiting for? Grab a paintbrush and let’s paint the town silver and gold with friends new and old, and check out our picks for great art, fun day trips, and creative classes to give to your loved ones!  Take a look at some of the great experiences and artistic shopping options we’ve got for you on today’s blog. When you shop small, your dollars have a direct impact on the community and your neighbourhood.  Consider purchasing gifts directly from these artists and local galleries, and bringing joy to the holidays in more than one way! Local Art Galleries and Art Shops: Illinois Dandelion Gallery & Studio in Waukegan, IL Visual Arts Center in Powell Park in Waukegan, IL Valhalla Art Loft in Waukegan, IL Artpie Studio/Gallery/Art School in Waukegan, IL One Crown Studios & Art Gallery in Waukegan, IL Kapheim Studio by Artist Thom Kapheim in Waukegan, IL Lloyd Shin Gallery in Gurnee, IL Curtis Frame Back Alley Gallery in Libertyville, IL Renditions Art Studio in Waukegan, IL MasterWorks Art Gallery & Studio in Vernon Hills, IL Aaron Galleries in Glenview, IL Sip Dip’n Dab in Waukegan, IL Periwinkle Art Studio in Waukegan, IL Ceramics For You Studio in Gurnee, IL Bottle & Bottega Highland Park Rivellino School of Art in Long Grove, IL Board & Brush Creative Studio in Liberyville, IL The Studio Art School in McHenry, IL Local Art Galleries and Shops: Wisconsin Re:Vision Gallery & Artist Studios in Kenosha, WI Lemon Street Gallery in Kenosha, WI Countryside Wildlife Art Gallery in Kenosha, WI Left of the Lake Gallery in Kenosha, WI DeBerge’s Framing & Gallery in Kenosha, WI Kenosha Art Association Pollard Gallery & Gifts in Kenosha, WI Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie, WI Alpaca Art in Kenosha,  WI Picasso Vino in Racine, WI Young Rembrandts in Kenosha & Racine, WI Gifting a Museum Admission Membership or even just a day trip pass can be an unforgettable experience!  Explore history, learn more about arts and culture, and inspire your family and friends to be more creative with unique museums to visit. More Great Museums for Art and History Buffs to Explore Near Classic’s Car Dealerships and Beyond: Kenosha Public Museum in Kenosha Civil War Museum in Kenosha Dinosaur Discovery Museum Kenosha History Center Southport Light Station Museum Kenosha Streetcar Society Waukegan History Museum Ray Bradbury Experience Museum Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County Field Museum of Chicago Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago Chicago History Museum Skokie Heritage Museum Museum of Art in Chicago Robbins Illinois History Museum Chicago Children’s Museum American Writers Museum Art Institute of Chicago Museum Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary ARt WNDR Museum of Chicago 6th Dimension Space + Gallery in Chicago Children’s Museum of Oak Lawn Newberry Library Cedarhurst Center for the Arts in Mt Vernon NIU Art Museum in Dekalb Great Automotive Museums to Visit in Illinois: Volo Auto Museum Pontiac Oakland Auto Museum Klairmont Kollections Museum Wheels O’ Time Museum Rockford Auto Museum Franklin County 1910’s Garage Museum Historic Auto Attractions Museum

We’re excited for all of the upcoming festivities during the holidays, and look forward to spending time with family and friends doing lots of fun things in the holiday spirit!  Here are some great ideas for ways to reconnect with family and friends and find some unique gifts.  We encourage our customers to shop small and support local artists, artisans, and small businesses this year.  Let’s spread some holiday cheer and the giving spirit, right here in our own backyard. more Check out these great markets, events, and activities in Southeast Wisconsin, Lake County, and the Greater Chicago Area! Your November and December Local Community Calendar On Tuesday November 9th, November 16th, and November 23rd from 10AM to 10:30AM, come over to the Kenosha Uptown Neighbourhood Library in Kenosha and enjoy a family story time for all children ages 2 and up.  Enjoy stories, singing songs, and lots of fun activities! Wednesday November 10th from 6:30PM to 8:30PM come out to Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie, WI and paint yourself a beautiful monogrammed piece of artwork for a holiday centerpiece! STarts at $38 per guest, supplies all included. On November 12th and 13th, get ready to rock your heart out at the Nightmare in November metalfest concert in Kenosha. Order your tickets here. Running from November 12th through January 2nd 2022, the Lightscape exhibit is a beautiful holiday lights spectacular at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe, IL. Order your tickets and get more info right here! On November 13th, shop small and shop local at the Holiday Handmade Market at the Streets of Woodfield in Schaumberg from 10AM to 3PM. It’s a great way to support the community and find the most unique and beautiful gifts for loved ones! On November 13th, grab a ticket to the Lunar Tide Music and Arts Festival in Waukegan.  Event Runs from 7PM on Saturday through November 14th at 3AM. On Saturday November 13th from 3PM to 5PM, enjoy an afternoon of pumpkins and flowers in a painting class at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie! $38 per person with supplies included. On Friday November 19th starting at 8PM, enjoy an evening of wonderful music with Phil Vassar’s Piano Bar Tour!  An intimate showcase of this singer-songwriter’s best work with limited seating. Check for Tickets here. Open Nightly starting on November 20th and running through January 2nd 2022, the Willow Hill’s Winter Magic Drive-Thru Christmas Lights Experience is great fun for the whole family! Check this link for ticket timeslots and a calendar of availability. From November 20th through November 21st enjoy an evening of fine holiday shopping with local artisans and craftsmen at the Island Lake Holiday Art and Craft Faire. Forget about the stress of shipping holiday gifts and check out these local exhibitors and artists isntead! Admission is $1 and includes food booths and artist shopping stands. On Saturday November 20th at 2PM and a second performance at 6PM, head over to Genesee Theatre to enjoy a bit of holiday tidings with “A Charlie Brown Christmas” play!  It’s fun for the whole family; check availability of tickets here. Saturday November 20th from 11AM to 1PM bring your family and friends to paint a beautiful autumnal turkey for just $25 per person at a Pinot’s Palette painting class in Pleasant Prairie! On Saturday November 20th from 11AM to 12PM at the Civil War Museum in Kenosha, come and visit The Young History Heroes Storytime session for ages 4 through 8. A new hero will be highlighted every month!  “How Kate Warne Saved President Lincoln” will be the topic of 11/20’s session.  The following storytime will be December 18th! Enjoy the celebrations of “Long Grove Vintage Holidays” from 11:30AM through 6PM in Long Grove downtown! This free event first runs on November 20th and runs again every weekend from 11/21, 11/27, 11/28, 12/4, 12/5, 12/11, 12/12,12/18, and 12/19.  Enjoy caroling and vintage carriage rides for the whole family.  Event is free but registration is required On Sunday November 21st from 10AM to 3PM, The Vault Banquet Hall and The Pine Blossom have partnered up to host the Winter Wonderland in Kenosha! Come and visit for a little early holiday fun, and kids can even meet Santa from 12PM to 3PM. On Friday, November 26th from 4PM to 5PM, head over to the Kenosha Public Museum and enjoy the annual “Lightin’ Up” celebration and Christmas tree lighting ceremony downtown!  It’s a free holiday program for all to enjoy. On Friday November 26th, skip the shopping madness and opt into a quiet afternoon of fun with friends and family by painting a snowy moon and stars landscape.  Or paint a festive Christmas Tree rustic truck painting from 6:30PM to 8:30PM Just $38 per guest at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie. On Saturday November 27th from 4PM through midnight, come kick off the Holidays with the Holiday in the Park & Parade event in Glenview! Fun for all ages starting at Glenview road and going through town. On Wednesday December 1st, paint this cheeky little gnome from 6:30 to 8:30PM and gift it to someone special for the holidays! Painting supplies and a lesson are just $38 at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie. On Saturday December 4th, paint a family heirloom winter painting of “The Perfect Tree” at Pinot’s Palette in Pleasant Prairie for just $38 per person with supplies all included! On December 4th, come listen to an evening of music by Yheti and Toadface at the Lakehurst Events Center in Waukegan. More event information here! On Saturday December 11th starting at 7PM, head on over to the Genesee Theatre for a wonderful festive evening as they host The Chris Isaak Holiday Tour!  Event and ticket availability may be limited, check here! Are you hosting a local event or market?  Got plans to take your family to a fun holiday event nearby? We’d love to hear from you! Tell us in a comment all about how you plan to spend your holiday season together.

You can’t go wrong with those crispy chips, melty cheese, spicy salsas, and whatever your heart desires as a topping be it meat or veggies. Nachos are the ultimate in comfort food feasting!  Today we’re celebrating National Nachos Day with a great list of restaurants who have creative and delicious nachos as well as more traditional nacho fare! more We really enjoy creating these local food and travel guides for our patrons and visitors.  And we’d love to hear from you! Let us know your best picks for local eateries in any cuisine you enjoy, and your suggestion might just end up on a future blog post! Check out our picks for best local nachos: El Famous Burrito in Waukegan Big Ed’s Barbecue in Waukegan CYOC in Waukegan Anastasia’s Restaurant & Pub in Waukegan Green Town TAvern in Waukegan Dockside Dogs in Waukegan Isla Del Mar in Waukegan La Michoacana Premium in Waukegan Jesters in Waukegan El Rey del Pollo Asado in Waukegan Chuck Wagon in Waukegan Avocado Express in Waukegan Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant in Waukegan Big Norm’s in Waukegan Catrachos Restaurant in Waukegan Golosinas El Encanto in Gurnee Timothy O’Toole’s Pub Gurnee Tacos El Durango MExican Grill BBQ’d Productions in Gurnee Taqueria Toluca in Waukegan Zocalo Mexican Bar and Grill Austin’s Saloon and Eatery La Fogata Mexican Grill Los Compadres Mexican REstaurant in Kenosha El Sarape Mexican Restaurant in Kenosha Iguana Wana Mexican Grill and Tequila Bar in Kenosha Waterfront Warehouse in Kenosha Le Fe Cafe in Kenosha Tacos El Norte in Kenosha If you love nachos as much as we do, we think you’ll love these fun car accessories: Nacho Average Friend Car Air Freshener, Available from FriskyBusinessGifts on Etsy Nacho themed Seat Covers for the Car, fits most models, Via LoveMineGifts.com Nacho Business Car Mats, via Zazzle Nacho Business Bumper Sticker from Etsy Seller SketchAndStick If You Don’t Like Tacos then I’m NACHO Type Sticker via Etsy Seller LunaLemonsDesign

We’re really excited that the holidays are just around the corner, but we also know the hustle and bustle of the season can feel a little overwhelming.  We’re here to help alleviate a little bit of the pressure, though, with some tips, tricks and gadgets to make it all easier when prepping big family meals! more Today we’re sharing some of our favourite mealtime ideas for Thanksgiving and Harvest dinners.  And of course, after working so hard on your main dishes, sides, and desserts, it’ll be time to take them on the road to your family and friends!  That’s why we’re also including our picks for great carrying items and to-go containers for traveling with food.  After all, we can’t forget grandma’s apple pie -- it’s a Classic! Learn about the Native American traditional meals in Harvest and Autumn season, as well as a brief History of Thanksgiving foods: Native American and Indigenous Meal Ingredients. Add more Native American ingredients to your menu this year with this list from Forbes: Native American Thanksgiving Recipes and Food Timing Tips and Tricks and Full Easy Menu Lists Road trips and travel during the holiday season can be plenty to contend with on their own, but if you’re hosting the gatherings or family shindigs you’ve got your own timelines to contend with.  Alleviate the pressure of “doing it all” with our roundup of helpful tricks to getting it all done on time.  That’s right, we’re helping you find a way to get that meal on the table as soon as your famished family arrives.  Tempt your travelers with piping hot appetizers, fresh hors d'oeuvres, and a perfectly cooked meal right on schedule.  And if you’re taking a dish on the road to mealtime, these tips might still be of good use to get it all done so you can get out the door! Four Tips for Holiday Meal Timing Meal Planning and Timing During the Holidays A pre-planned holiday meal with timing and list! When to Cook and Prep Every Dish: A Thanksgiving Timeline The Easy Thanksgiving Menu Easy Thanksgiving/Christmas Dinner Menu from RecipeTinEats Fast, Easy, and Delicious Holiday Meal Recipes Here’s some of our favourite online recipes you can print-and-go or queue up on your tablets for fast reference. 10 Minute Thanksgiving Appetizers and Snacks 10 Minute appetizer Spread for All Occasions 10 Recipes for 3-ingredient Appetizers 33 Last Minute Thanksgiving Appetizers 3-Ingredient Thanksgiving Stuffing 1 Hour Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Sides Thanksgiving Salad Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe All in One Thanksgiving Casserole 5-Ingredient Sweet Potato Cassero le 60 5-Ingredient Thanksgiving Recipes 27 3-Ingredient Appetizers, Sides, and Desserts for Thanksgiving 100 Thanksgiving Recipes Ready in 30 Minutes Or Less Soul Food Thanksgiving Recipes 8 Must-Make Soul Food Thanksgiving Items Sean Sherman’s 10 Essential Native American Recipes Native American Chefs’ Recommended Fall Recipes Kid Friendly Thanksgiving Recipes Great Food Storage for the Holiday Traveller We know how hard you’ve worked on these holiday dishes, and we want them to arrive safe and sound at your get togethers!  That’s why we’ve selected some great items to keep your food safe while traveling in the car. From pie keepers to storage crates and more, we’ve got it all: The Sweet Creations Pie Traveler, $10-$15 The OXO Glass Pie Plate with Lid, $13-$15 Insulated Round Thermal Casserole Carrier, $15 The Cam Go Box via Walmart, $45 Instacrate with No Lid, $15 The Collapsible Rolling Crate, $30 Non-Slip Car Trunk Mats, $15 The Cater Gator Multi-Tray Insulated Food Storage, $250 ArcticZone Food Thermal Carrier, $30 Insulated Food Delivery Bag 23”x13”x15” size, $21

COOL Ministries has been working passionately since its humble beginnings in 1982, and has grown over the years into a fully-fledged non-profit social services organization.  COOL Pantry provides a comprehensive selection of ingredients for three square meals a day, including specialized options catering to diabetes, food allergies, as well as diverse selections in ethnic cuisine.  In addition, COOL offers safe housing options and assistance, counseling, life skills training, and other assistive programming, in order to help both veterans and families transition from homelessness to sustainable housing and stability. more Image from Cool Ministries Website If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please click here to find out more information about the COOL Food Pantry or click here to access the COOL housing application. If you’d like to get involved with COOL ministries as a volunteer, click here to see what services are currently needed! If you’re interested in supporting COOL ministries with a financial contribution, you’ll find all of that information right here. Want to join hands together with our Classic dealerships and COOL Ministries Food Pantry?  Check out our partnership food drive information below: Driven by (Care) Fill our Sorento and fulfill a big need at the Cool Ministries Food Pantry (graphic – food in back of sorento with hatch open but not completely full of food) Right here in Waukegan, people are going hungry. Every day. This Thanksgiving, join us in being thankful for what we have by helping those who have less.  For every three items you donate, you can choose from these thank-you gifts: Kia shirt 6 free car washes $25 off your next service * Free oil change $500 off the purchase or lease of a new or certified pre-owned Kia WHAT COOL MINISTRIES FOOD PANTRY NEEDS Cash donations to buy 2000 turkeys Packaged stuffing Boxed mashed potatoes Green Beans Cans of mushroom soup Desserts (shelf stable) Juice (bottles) Dinner Rolls *excluding oil changes

Great Gadgets and Gear Under $100 on Amazon! Here at Classic we don’t just love selling cars, we love driving and maintaining them, too!  Today we’re sharing our picks for some great car gadgets that make driving a more enjoyable and relaxing experience.  Head on over to the blog for gadgets and gizmos aplenty to spruce up your new ride.  Give your car a little personality and pizazz with some of the picks on our list, too!   As an added bonus, this list has great budget friendly options for gift giving if you’re getting a jump start on holiday shopping for all your favourite Gearheads.  Thanks to Amazon, you can get fast, speedy shipping just in time for the season! more Keep your new car looking clean and fresh for the long haul.  Snag the THISWORKX portable vacuum cleaner and detailing kit for under $50 on Amazon right now! We’ve all dropped something into that unsightly void between the front seat and the center console.  It’s a black hole of dust, muck, garbage, and tidbits that our phone inevitably finds as if drawn to its center. But you can put a stop to that hassle with the DropStop Gap Filler for under $50 on Amazon. Amazon has added a car friendly version of the Echo to their lineup of tech options.  Use Alexa for hands-free calling, traffic and GPS, music, and more.  The perfect option to update older model vehicles with 2021 technology! Available for about $50 right now on Amazon. This budget friendly goop is a great gadget for stocking stuffers or white-elephant parties.  An easy to store container fits most cupholders for on-the-go cleanup and tidying.  Use this putty gel to clean hard to reach places such as air vents, cupholders, side pockets, steering wheels and more. Helps remove grime and grit from most surfaces. Under $10! This car ionizer plugs into the electrical outlet of older model vehicles (or the cigarette lighter option on vintage cars.)  It helps purify the air of pollutants, lingering scents, and other nasty stuff.  It’s priced under $25 for a great stocking stuffer or office party grab bag option. ​​ Keep your car’s paperwork and other cards safe and sound from theft. This RFID blocking wallet fits in your glove compartment or center console for safe keeping of your important documents.  And it’s a thrifty option with a great price under $15 right now on Amazon. Portable tire compressors make a great gift, and there are quite a few options out there! Check out this one by AstroAI under $30. Or this one by VacLife for under $30 as well. And this great mini option for portability for just under $50 by Yamctopy. And rounding out our list at just under $100 on sale right now at Amazon, the NOCO Boost Plus is a portable jump start battery for your car!  It’s got a 12V output and USB in and out ports as well as two built in jumper cables.  It’s a must have for those who love to go on road trips or commute to school and/or work.

It’s National Sandwich Day! There are a lot of “hot takes” online about what makes a sandwich.  Is it simply some vegetables, meats, and/or cheeses stuffed between bread or dough items?  Do hot sandwiches count or only ones with chilled deli meats?   Is a hot dog a sandwich?! Do Tacos or Quesadillas count? Do you call it a Hoagie or a Sub Sandwich?! more Okay, okay, we could sit here and debate it all day long, but we’re getting a little hungry, and we’ve still got lots of cars to sell!  So instead of dishing out our own opinions, we’ll just share some of our favourite local restaurants with the best sandwiches around. From traditional Chicago Style dogs (okay, we’re counting ‘em!) to Chicago Style Beef sandwiches and other regional faves, you’ll find plenty of top notch eats.  Check out our picks for pheNOMenal bites in Waukegan, Southern Wisconsin, and the Greater Chicago area! Best Eats Around: Hot Hoagies, Cold Sandwiches, and More! We’ve got a great roundup of delicious restaurants and delis in the area just for you: Leno’s Sandwich Shop at 1826 Grand Avenue in Waukegan George’s Gyros at 2122 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Potbelly Sandwich Shop at 760 S Waukegan Road in Waukegan Quonset Pizza at 2602 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Hoagie Hut in 2807 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Brown’s Chicken at 3150 Belvidere Road in Waukegan Shirl’s Drive-In Waukegan at 2132 N Lewis Avenue in Waukegan HealthyYums at 2724 Sheridan Road in Zion Rammy’s Sub Contractors at 834 Wheeling Road in Wheeling Frantonio’s Italian Deli & Cafe at 421 N Northwest Highway in Barrington Eleven City Diner at 1112 S Wabash Avenue in Chicago Giordano’s at 730 N Rush Street in Chicago J.P. Graziano Grocery at 901 W Randolph Street in Chicago Fat Shack at 2537 S Wabash Avenue in Chicago Capt’n Nemo’s Rogers Park at 7367 N Clark Street in Chicago Devil Dawgs on State at 767 S State Street in Chicago Cousins Subs at 3806 W 52nd Street in Kenosha, WI Morelli’s Deli at 7506 7th Avenue in Kenosha, WI Tenuta’s Delicatessen-Liquors at 3203 52nd Street in Kenosha, WI SoupDepot Breakfast Lunch & Dinner at 2731 18t Street in Kenosha, WI Rustic’s Subs at 1830 27th Avenue Unit 101 in Kenosha, WI Harborside Common Grounds at 5159 6th Avenue in Kenosha, WI Big Lou’s Standing Room Only at 635 75th Street in Kenosha, WI Final Inning at 9048 Sheridan Road in Kenosha, WI Curious as to ‘Wich Items Are Best for Taking Your Sandwiches to Go? Whether you’re going on a picnic, a road trip, or just your daily commute, we’ve got lots of great options for taking your sandwich with you safely. Check it out here: Check out the SnapLock sandwich keeper to protect your sandwich on the commute to work! Under $10, it’s a steal on Amazon! ​​ No matter whether you call it a Hoagie or a Sub, it still needs safekeeping!  Check out this great sandwich keeper specifically designed for long rolls. Under $25 and worth it to protect your artisanal eats, right here on Amazon! Steel yourselves for this next one, because it’s going to excite the environmentally conscious in our midst!  This plastic free option is made of stainless steel and is very sturdy. Protects both regular and gluten free sandwiches without judgement. Available here on Amazon!

November 1st and 2nd are part of the Dia De Muertos Celebrations, also known as “All Soul’s Day,” to commemorate and celebrate the lives of family members and friends who have passed away.  This two day festival is most notably celebrated in Mexico, but it’s also celebrated across Central and South American countries, as well as places such as Los Angeles, California with large Latinx communities.  And we’re very happy to celebrate with great local area restaurants and beautiful places to visit and events to celebrate Latin America. more The holiday ceremony has origins in Aztec tradition and ritual honoring the dead, but similar remembrance rituals are observed on All Saint’s Day/All Souls day by Christian/Catholic individuals, too!  No matter where you live, the sentiments are the same: it is a time to celebrate the harmony of life and death and the beauty and love within both.  Every living thing will eventually die, and every human being will become the same, just a skeleton or skull without the trials and trappings of life such as clothes or money or status. Celebrations include an “Altar de muertos” also known as an ofrenda, which is an altar displaying personal effects, photographs, and memories representing and celebrating the life of the person who has died.  Many people include friends, family members, and even famous figures that meant a lot to them.  Additionally, the festival is marked by parades, musical performances, and colourful decorations such as intricate paper cuttings strung up in banners, calaveras and calacas, and vibrant flowers.  Music and noisemakers are an integral part of the joyful celebration meant to wake the dead and invite them to join us and to keep close by to their loved ones! Celebrate Dia De Muertos in the Community On November 2nd from 12PM to 2PM, join in on a Day of Death Healing Circle hosted by The Wild Ones at The City of Chicago City Hall in Chicago for a day of self care, healing, and remembrance.  Tickets are free, register online. On November 3rd at 3PM, join NEIU as they welcome Mexican poet and artist Rocio Ceron with a special reading and speaking engagement with an interview and conversation to follow.  Part of the Lit & Luz Festival running from November 1st through 6th 2021.  The bilingual performance is free to attend from 3PM to 4PM  at Northeastern Illinois University. On November 3rd, head over to Osito’s Tap in Chicago from 6PM to 8:30PM for a special Dia De Los Muertos event, “Find Your Ancestral Spirit Dinner.” Tickets are on sale for $40 and includes welcome cocktails, dinner, dessert, and a night of remembrance.  All guests also receive a 10% discount on Prolijo Mezcal at Morenos Liquor. On November 5th, join the Brewja Co Gallery for a special Exhibition: Dia De Muertos - An Art Exhibition on Honoring Tradition. The event in Evergreen Park will showcase art honoring and exploring the Day of the Dead Traditions, and will include a public ofrenda. Feel free to bring photographs of your loved ones! Event runs from 7PM to 10PM and tickets range from $15 to $50. On November 5th from 6PM to 7PM, the Lit & Luz Book Club Presents: Jazmina BArrera, Rocio Ceron, and Pergentino Jose along with special guest Dr. Ignacio Sanchez Prado for a multilingual conversation about contemporary Mexican Literature.  Presented in part by UNAM Chicago & Instituto Cervantes; advance registration required, free to attend. Local Latin American Restaurants La Fondita Restaurant Mexicano at 916 W Greenwood Avenue in Waukegan La Canoa at 50 S Green Bay Road in Waukegan Taqueria Toluca at 822 10th Street in Waukegan Pepe’s Mexican Restaurant in 760 N Green Bay Road in Waukegan Antojitos Tonatico at 1102 Glen Rock Avenue in Waukegan Tacos El Norte at 2663 Grand Avenue in Waukegan Comales de Waukegan at 2663 Grande Avenue in Waukegan Taqueria Guerrero # 1 at 205 W Water Street in Waukegan El Sabrocito Mexican Restaurant at 2941 Sunset Avenue in Waukegan El Rey Del Pollo Asado at 505 S Green Bay Road in Waukegan Antohitos Guerrero at 1406 Washington Street in Waukegan Catrachos Restaurant at 330 S Green Bay Road in Waukegan Carnivale at 702 West Fulton Market Street in Chicago Casa Yari in 3268 W Fullerton Avenue in Chicago Latin Patio Restaurant at 3115 N Central AVenue in Chicago La Cocinita Restaurant in Evanston IL Dia De Muertos Recipes To Make At Home Hosting your own celebration at home? Try one of these great traditional recipes to include in your festivities. Pan De Muerto Mexican Tamales Traditional Atole Champurrado Drink Tortillas de Cempazuchitl Mole Poblano Churros Tacha (Candied Pumpkin) Calaveras de Azucar Tortilla Soup Pabassinas

Who doesn’t love a good calzone with that ooey, gooey melty cheese dunked in some warm fresh marinara?  Mmmm, delicious!  And since it’s national Calzone day, we thought we’d share our picks for great local options in the Greater Chicago area. We’re so happy to be part of the community in Lake County, and we love to support fellow businesses here in the Waukegan area. more Consider ordering a lunch out from one of these fantastic restaurants, or taking a road trip to grab a bite from one of the best calzones in Chicago.  And we’ve also got some great recipes to try your hand at one at home, or great food transport bags to ensure your order gets home hot and ready to eat. The Best Around: Great Local Calzones Calzone & Macaroni at 260 Hawthorn Village Commons in Vernon Hills Ron’s Italian Ovens at 2195 N Illinois 83 in Round Lake Beach Double D Pizza at 1500 N Lewis Avenue in Waukegan Louie’s Restaurant at 1009 North Avenue in Waukegan Luici’s Mundelein at 1130 W Maple Avenue in Mundelein Mama K’s Pizza and Grille at 1801 N IL-21 in Gurnee K & R Jesters at 1500 N Lewis Avenue in Waukegan Buddyz a Chicago Pizza at 860 N Illinois Route 83 in Mundelein Potestas Pizza at 434 S Green Bay Road in Waukegan Anasasia’s Restaurant & Sports Lounge at 3880 Northpoint Blvd in Waukegan Rosati’s Pizza at 5404 Grand Avenue in Gurnee Donat’s Pizza at 205 Waukegan Road in Lake Bluff Jimano’s Pizzeria at 938 N Green Bay Road in Waukegan Bongiorno’s Cucina Italiana & Pizzeria 405 N Wabash Avenue in Chicago Panino’s Pizza Chicago at 3702 N Broadway in Chicago Pizzeria Serio 1708 W Belmont Avenue in Chicago Homeslice at 938 W Webster Avenue in Chicago The StopAlong at 1812 N Milwaukee Avenue in Chicago Spacca Napoli Pizzeria at 1769 W Sunnyside Avenue in Chicago Lacoco’s Pizza & Sports Club at 3350 W 47th Avenue in Chicago Sarpino’s Pizzeria at 1852 N Damen Avenue in Chicago Damenzo’s Pizza at 2324 W Taylor Street in Chicago Coalfire at 1321 W Grand Avenue in Chicago Tano’s Pizzeria at 3038 W Irving Park Road in Chicago Chicago’s Pizza at 3114 N Lincoln Avenue in Chicago Great Gadgets for Traveling with Pizza and Calzones in the Car Whether you’re delivering Calzones for a living as a food service worker or you’re bringing some noms to a party, the Freshie Insulated XXL Food Bag is the way to go! With drink holders and food insulation to keep meals fresh and hot or cool and crisp. As the weather gets cooler, this Homevative Electric Heated Food Delivery Bag is the perfect option to ensure your Calzones arrive with all that ooey gooey bubbly cheese nice and hot!  It holds up to 3 large pizza boxes, perfect for Friday Game Nights and Saturday Date Nights! Got plans to Netflix and Chill with Calzones? The smaller option from Freshie’s Food Bag lineup is a great idea for smaller to-go orders. Great for taking to dates at the drive-in! Great Recipes to Make Your Own Calzone Like the Experts Got dreams of opening your own Pizzeria?  Try your hand at making a calzone from scratch for some practice.  We’ve got some great options for you: Incredible Homemade Calzones Classic Calzones Lidia’s Calzones Quick and Easy Calzones

October may be coming to a close, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to end!  We’ve got a great roundup of family friendly activities and great events for adults and friends to enjoy this weekend.   Choose from our list of lots of festive events in the Greater Chicago Area and Southern Wisconsin regions! more From Halloween Parties to Trunk or Treats to Pet Halloween Costume Contests and Spooky Exhibits, there’s lots of fun for everyone you know.  So pile everyone into your reliable car from Classic, and let’s paint the town orange for Halloweekend! Today, October 29th from 4PM to 6PM in Zion, come on over to enjoy the Halloween Trail of Treats and some good old fashioned family fun at Shiloh Park! Tonight from 6PM to 8PM, head on over to the Northfield Neighborhood Library in Kenosha to enjoy a fun filled evening at the Nights at Northfield Howl-o-ween event with your family pet.  Come out to paint a pumpkin, enter the pet costume contest, and more! This evening from 7PM to 9:30PM  pile the family into your new car from Classic and drive on over to the Halloween movie Drive-in in Gurnee at Hunt Club Park for just $20 per vehicle! Pile the kiddos and their treat bags in the car and get ready for a fun filled day! Because on October 30th from 10AM to 4PM it’s “Boo At the Zoo” with the Racine Zoo in Racine, WI. Kids under 2 are FREE, and family member tickets will range from $5 to $10 by age and both Event participation and Zoo Admission is included in the price. On Saturday October 30th from 1PM to 2PM you can take the whole family out to Bach to Rock in Northbrook, IL for festive Halloween candy and celebrations for free to families with kiddos age 3 through 12. On Saturday October 30th from 1PM to 3PM come on out for the Halloween Trick or Treat Trail in Waukegan at Bowen Park!  Your kiddos can enjoy a 2 hour event with treat bags and lots of costumed characters for an early Halloween event. Saturday October 30th starting at 4PM come on out to the 5th Annual Trick or Treat on 6th Ave event in Kenosha, WI -- all families are welcome! At 6PM on Saturday October 30th, join in the Monster Mash Dash 5K Run & Walk at North Point Marina in Winthrop Harbor. Looking for a night out on the town? Enjoy some chill Halloween Vibes from 7PM to 11PM with Stone Theory at The Kenosha Creative Space in Kenosha, WI. This Sunday October 31st in Gurnee, come down from 2PM to 5PM for family friendly Trick or Treating! Come in costume and enjoy the festivities for all ages. Scare up some fun this weekend in Chicago at the “Sweet Dreams Halloween Pop Up 2hr  Experience” at Rizzo’s Bar and Inn from 5PM to 11PM or 1PM to 11PM (depends on day of week!) Running all weekend through the 31st! It’s time to Eat, Drink and Be Scary at the Halloween Rooftop Movie experience at Whisky Business in Chicago happening on October 31st from 4PM to 10PM, starting at just $15. All month long the Museum of Illusions has been transformed into The Museum of Spooky Illusions! So head on out for some special Halloween Treats this weekend in Chicago.  Book your museum ticket and get ready to scare up some excitement with your whole family!

Here at Classic we’re thrilled to be a part of a diverse community, and we’re very excited to support and celebrate National Immigrants Day.  We’ve rounded up our picks for wonderful museums and organizations in the local region which celebrate diverse perspectives and cultures.  Check it out and plan your next road trip today! more The United States of America is a proudly diverse country including an immigrant population from nearly every country in the world.  Over 45 million people living in the United States were born in another country with their over 35 million first generation relatives and offspring.  Immigrants accounted for nearly 14% of the US population as of 2018, and together with 1st generation Americans they account for about 25% of our nation’s population.  Every year more than 1 million people emigrate to the US, with the top countries for immigrants arriving from China, India, Mexico, and the Philippines. Want to learn more about the history of immigrants in Chicago area? Check out this interesting article from PBS. Check out some of these fabulous places to learn more about the history of immigration, explore the diversity in the US, and get in touch with the creativity and cultural traditions of our diverse population.  They’re all just a short drive away from our dealerships here in Waukegan, and make a great day trip or activity during a weekend getaway. Museums, Organizations, and Galleries Supporting Multicultural Studies, Diverse Perspectives, and Outreach: One Two Pru Exhibit via Gallery Guichard in Chicago Trickster Cultural Center in Schaumburg IL The Chinese American Museum of Chicago in Chicago The DuSable Museum of African American History in Chicago Heritage Museum of Asian Art in Chicago Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art in Chicago The Field Museum of Chicago in Chicago Chicago Cultural Center in Chicago National Indo-American Museum in Chicago Roots and Culture Contemporary Arts Center in Chicago National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago The Great Migration Exhibit at the Chicago History Museum in Chicago National Hellenic Museum in Chicago The Ukraonian National Museum in Chicago National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture in Chicago The Polish Museum of America in Chicago Irish American Heritage Center in Chicago The Swedish American Museum in Chicago Brunk Children’s Museum of Immigration in Chicago Oriental Institute at University of Chicago in Chicago Hatian American Museum of Culture in Chicago Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture in Chicago Zia Gallery in Winnetka, IL Sevan Gallery in Skokie, IL Northwest Cultural Council in Barrington, IL Skokie Heritage Museum in Skokie, IL Racine Heritage Museum in Racine, WI Jewish Museum of Milwaukee in Milwaukee, WI Livsreise Norwegian Heritage Center in Stoughton, WI Mahogany Gallery in Racine, WI Johnson Art Center at Carthage College in Kenosha, WI The Anderson Arts Center at the Kemper Center in Kenosha, WI Finding yourself inspired by all the art you’ve seen, the stories you’ve read, and heritage museums you’ve visited and want to support all of our diverse communities?  We’ve also got a great list of charitable groups and organizations which supply funding and support to Immigrants and Refugees arriving in America!  Check it out below: American Immigration Council The Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services The International Rescue Committee The American Civil Liberties Union Immigrant Families Together Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights Doctors Without Borders USA for UNHCR Save the Children Project Corazon Kids in Need of Defence (KIND) Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law Movimiento Cosecha United We Dream Mano a Mano Family Resource Center in Waukegan “Recognize yourself in he and she who are not like you and me.” - Carlos Fuentes