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Got a person on your list that’s nearly impossible to shop for? Perhaps they’re a utilitarian type and only purchase necessities, or maybe they’re just very picky about the items they procure, or you just can’t put a finger on what exactly would be useful and exciting to them. We’ve all been there!  That’s why we have created these helpful gift guides for automotive enthusiasts, to take some of the guesswork and anxiety from your holiday shopping. If you find yourself pulling your hair out and trying to pick the perfect accessory or gift for the car lover in your life, allow us to alleviate the pressure. We’ve got another incredible roundup of practical, useful, and impressive gear at all different price points for the gearhead in your life. Grab some gifts that will make ‘em say “Wow! How thoughtful!” with great gusto. more The Tymate RV Tire Pressure monitoring system can be used across multiple types of vehicles, and offers warnings for high temperatures, low pressure or high pressure, tire leakage, and offers both manual and solar charging options. Great gift for the roadtripper in your midst! Available for under $75 at the time of publication. The WOLFBOX G840S 4L mirror dash cam offers extended rear view safety as well as front and rear view dual cameras with night vision and park assist capabilities. A fantastic find for under $150. This collapsible snow shovel from Yukon Charlie’s is a fantastic gift for any driver, especially those who love the off-road adventure life!  It’s lightweight, adjustable, portable, and packs up to just 13 inches and 1 pound in weight. Plus, it’s under $50 so it won’t break the bank! The brand you know, trust, and depend on has a fantastic compact and portable option for inflating your tires on the go! The DEWALT 20V Max Tire inflator is the perfect gift for any automotive enthusiast. It has an LED light and automatic shut off for easy use. For a slightly smaller and more compact option, the Craftsman V20 cordless inflator with pressure gauge makes an even more budget friendly option for emergency equipment. The DeWalk DXAELJ16 1600 Peak Amp Jump Starter Battery Booster offers the ability to recharge and jumpstart your vehicle from just about anywhere, even if there’s no other driver around to assist you.  The built in bright LED light can help you with emergency roadside repairs as well. The MOTOPOWER MP69033 Car OBD2 Scanner Code Reader is a fantastic choice to give to the budding auto mechanic!  They can determine the cause of a check engine light with just a click of a few buttons, read live data, and properly diagnose an issue for more accessible repairs. Bring any car into the modern age with this Arestetch 5.5in windshield heads up display without breaking the bank. Entering our list at under $75, it’s a great wallet friendly choice. For the world traveler who loves to take their canine companions as navigators, we’ve got several options for pet-friendly car seats that will surely make their holiday season merry and bright. First up is the PawSeat Premium Portable Booster with adjustable seat, the PAWBrands PupProtector with Orthopedic memory foam. And the URPOWER Dog Seat Cover for Pets seat Cover Hammock. All at multiple price points and sizes to accommodate any vehicle or sized pet from $30 to $150. The Ultimate Winter Car Emergency Kit with roadside assistance included is an absolutely stellar gift for any driver on your gifting list. It’s got everything you need to get through winter weather emergencies including a shovel, flashlights, handwarmers, and more! And clocking in at just under $75 per kit!

Well, folks, the time has come! Mariah Carey has officially thawed out for the season, and we’re getting ready to visit our friends and family to celebrate for the next 2 months.  While you’re moving and grooving to all those delightful holiday tunes and cooking up a storm, remember to make time to run through your pre-travel checklist of car maintenance tasks before you hit the road. You’ll thank us later when you’re able to reach your destination on time and have plenty of time to enjoy the meal in full from apps to mains to desserts.  Feel free to print out our checklist and put it next to your shopping list so you can remember to schedule your appointments ASAP! more Update and renew all of your travel documents. About a week or so before you head out, verify that your license, registration, insurance, passport, and other vital documents and records have been renewed and are up to date. Check your glove box and center console to ensure the proper documentation is inside the vehicle. Test your brakes. Give your brakes a good thorough check. Make sure there are no odd sounds, squishy feelings, and that you have adequate stopping power. If not, call ASAP to schedule an appointment for a checkup. Check for adequate tire tread depth. You can use the quarter or penny method to check your tire treads are at proper depth, and if not make sure you replace any worn tires before you head out for a long day of travel. Inflate your tires to proper pressure. Be sure to add a little air to your tires to assist in improving your ability to stop quickly and efficiently, as well as inspecting them for slow leaks or punctures. Check and top off all fluid levels. Make sure your engine oil is at an adequate level and is clean. Fill your windshield wiper fluid with weather appropriate formulas. Ensure your coolant/antifreeze is filled to the max line. Check transmission fluid if applicable. Ensure all mirrors and glass are free of debris and cracks. Thoroughly inspect and clean your windshields, windows, side and rearview mirrors. Call a windshield repair company for a replacement if you notice any stars or cracks in the glass, as they can easily spread and impair visibility as you travel from road debris and natural causes. Fill your gas tank to the top, and charge your electric vehicles before you leave. Make sure you fill your gas tank up before you hit the road, as heavy delays are probable when traveling to and from holiday events. Make sure that you also plot out specific mileage points for refueling and get an average fuel cost for your trip. There’s nothing worse than being hit with unexpected traffic delays and experiencing range anxiety.  Knowing when and where you can stop to recharge and refuel can alleviate a lot of unnecessary stressors. Carry cash in case of emergencies. Do your best to stop by the bank and take out some cash to have on hand in case of emergency. This can be helpful in case of unexpected need for towing or other travel expenses. It can also save you money at the gas pump by avoiding higher charges for credit/debit cards. It also doesn’t hurt to make sure you have a roll of quarters in case you get in the wrong lane on toll roads. Double check your emergency car kit. It’s always a great idea to replenish your supplies and ensure that your roadside emergency kit has everything you need. Check flashlights for batteries; ensure that LED flares have been recharged; replenish your tire repair kit or fix-a-flat canisters; replace your emergency clothing with winter gear; ensure your spare tire is inflated or donut is in good condition; etc. Charge all of your portable devices such as smartphones, tablets, GPS devices, etc. The night before you’re ready to travel, ensure that you recharge your portable battery jumpstarter, your tire inflator pump, and all of your phones. There’s nothing worse than being caught in the lurch on low power! Make sure that all passengers of your vehicle have fully charged devices in event of emergency. Properly charge all portable power banks and ensure that you have adequate charging cables for all devices. Pack a bag of emergency toiletries and shelf-stable goods. It’s never a bad idea to bring a portable pack of paper towels, toilet paper, tissues, flushable wipes, hand sanitizer, travel soaps, disinfectant spray, and basic first aid supplies. It also can be helpful to have shelf stable snacks and food on hand as well as potable water in bottles or jugs.

The 90th Annual Thanksgiving Parade in Chicago is just around the corner, and we’re here to help you find the best ways to view the parade up close and personal. Today we’re covering some details on this year’s performances, when to arrive for both VIP and free access, and how to secure the best spots for viewing. more This year’s annual parade is hosted by Marris, Co-Host of the Angi Taylor Morning Show, and Maria Palmer from Rock 95.5 Chicago! The procession will be making its way North up state street from Ida B. Well Drive to Randolph Street from 8AM through 11AM (CT). This year’s special guests include Lynn Whitfield from The Josephine Baker Story and The Chi; as well as performances by Reyna Roberts and Donnie Lee Strickland.  Staged live performances will be happening from 8AM to 9AM and feature: ArtEast Chicago Dance Troupe, Balley Folklorico Sones Mexicanos, Crystal Lake Strikers Drumline, Dong Fang Performing Arts Association, Huaxing Arts Group, Korean Performing Arts Institute of Chicago, Lajkonik Song and Dance Ensemble, Music Theater Works, Renacer Boliviano Inc, Southern Stars featuring OVERNIGHT and Texas A&M International University. Also appearing are several equestrian groups, specialty dance and performance group teams, multiple festive floats, as well as local and regional marching bands! This year, the parade will be aired live on Pluto TV, Paramount’s free streaming service, for families who wish to spectate from home this holiday. VIP tickets are available for a close-up look at the fun for just $70 per person. Each individual VIP Sponsorship allows entry to the VIP area. VIPs will have private portable restrooms and general admission bleacher seats for maximum comfort;  VIP opens at 7AM, and it’s recommended to arrive no later than 7:30!  There will be food and drinks for purchase; outside food and beverage is prohibited. Kids 2 and under are allowed as a lap-child with each parent admission. Otherwise, the parade is free to attend, but it should be noted that it may not be the most accessible for disabled attendees due to high crowds, lots of walking and standing for three hours or more  in order to view.  People begin lining the streets starting around 6AM, and many bring folding chairs and blankets to keep warm (it’s not called the Windy City for nothing, after all!)  Dress in layers, wearing plenty of warm winter weather attire,and consider wearing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent your face and lips from becoming chapped in the cold!  Expect long lines for exiting at 11AM, and plan your afternoon accordingly. Public transit and local area hotels/restaurants will be very busy! Veteran parade viewers recommend sending out a few adult representatives from your group to go on up ahead and save space so younger family members can take a little extra time to walk and meet them.  After the parade, you can stop over to the Christkindl Holiday Market to do a little holiday shopping and extend your festive excitement (the market now has two locations: Chicago at Daley Plaza and Aurora at RiverEdge Park.) Looking for a direct live stream of the Chicago parade to watch at home from your laptop or tablet? You can check out the Official Live Stream of the Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade on PlutoTV app and on-demand streaming services!

Before the winter weather arrives, we’ve got a checklist of items that will keep you safe on the road during inclement weather and icy conditions.  If you need support or to schedule a maintenance appointment, feel free to call our service center and we’ll help you get your car winter ready! more And be sure to check out our service specials for new deals and offers each month. Our trusted technicians are happy to help you with your winter weather prep, oil changes, maintenance, and other tasks. What to Check On Your Vehicle Before Winter Weather Hits Check your front and rear brakes, emergency brake, and brake light system. During icy, snowy, slippery conditions, knowing you have a working set of brakes and rotors can be the difference between a safe stop and serious accident and injury.  It is important to make sure that your braking system and brake light are in perfect working order before you’re faced with a split second decision to swerve, stop short, or avoid dangerous snowbanks or black ice.  If you hear any sort of scraping, whining, or squealing when you brake, bring your car in for a service call straight away. Make sure your car is thoroughly cleaned both inside and out. Winter weather means a lot of muck, grime, and gunk on the roads, so it’s best to start the season with a clean slate.  Be sure to thoroughly vacuum and detail the inside of your car, and treat any leather surfaces with a moisturizing protective spray or polish.   Give your car a good hand washing as well, and apply a nice coat of finishing wax before protecting it with a fabric car cover. Install new, fresh wiper blades and protect your windshield wipers from damage. 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.  Now is a great time to top-off your windshield wiper fluid with a seasonal formula, as well as giving the windshield its last treatment for the year with a hydrophobic coating. Ensure the defrosters, heater, and blower are working properly before it’s a vital requirement. It’s important to check the defroster and heat blower functionality, as these two elements must be functioning properly to ensure wiper efficiency and clear visibility.  When cars are iced or frosty, gradually warming the window to loosen the ice before scraping can save you from windshield damage and scratches. Additionally, it can save you time by melting the frost and ice as well as bringing your car to a comfortable temperature for driving. Check your car battery for proper charge and optimal conditioning. Colder months mean we’re more apt to leave our car running to “warm it up” so we don’t face a frosty morning commute, but this also means a higher potential for draining the battery through accidental means.  Cold weather can put additional stress on your battery, and can cause it to lose around 20-30% of its charge when the weather hits 32 degrees. (If you’re storing your vehicle, remove your car’s battery and store it away.  Connect the battery to a “trickle charger” or “battery tender” to keep the battery at peak performance but prevent overcharging.  You can also keep it in a warm room of your house to prevent a stored battery from freezing and being damaged.) Prep your garage for cold weather months and protect your vehicle from unannounced guests taking residence. Rodents and other critters love to hibernate and cozy up in cold weather, and your car is the perfect safe environment!  Go around and block up any holes in the garage where small animals may enter.  Make a point as well to clear out the trash from the side pockets and floors regularly, and be sure to check for food especially to avoid attracting critters seeking food and shelter. Change to winter or all-season tires, and monitor your tire pressure religiously as the temperature drops lower. Proper tire tread depths and optimal inflation levels can be the difference between life and death or catastrophic accident if needing to stop in black ice or inclement conditions.   In addition, keeping a tire-pressure gauge on hand for monitoring your wheels is a great idea.  Check with our service technicians or your local trusted mechanic if you need help finding winter tires or all-season tires as appropriate. Now is also a great time to have a tire rotation and wheel alignment to ensure accuracy. Update your emergency kit to include a container of de-icer, small shovel, a “go-bag” of warm clothing and blankets, and a bag or lidded bucket of salt and/or kitty litter. In the event you’re iced in or perhaps spinning your wheels in slush or snow, a small portable shovel and a bit of salt can go a long way!   Keeping a small lightweight shovel can also speed up your snow removal when you’re leaving work after it’s been snowing in the lot all day!  Adding a small can of de-icer to your work bag or purse in the event your locks, hatchback, trunk, or doors are frozen shut! Always keep your fuel tank at least half-full during the winter months especially. In the event of an emergency in frigid temps, or in cases where help may take awhile to arrive, a half or full tank of gas can keep you warm. Inclement weather can lead to an increase in traffic delays as well as accidents, so it’s best to be adequately fueled in case of emergency so you can stay warm until help arrives, or while waiting in traffic without getting stranded.  (Likewise, if you’re storing your vehicle for the season be sure to top up all fluids and ensure that your car has adequate antifreeze. If you’re storing for 3+ months, add a bit of fuel stabilizer to the tank.  Ensure that the tank is nearly full, and then add the fuel stabilizer before storing, and take it out for a drive first to ensure that all fluids and the fuel stabilizer are cycled through the car’s system.) Give the headlights and tail lights a thorough inspection, and replace broken bulbs or service any damaged connections. It’s imperative during winter weather that you maintain excellent visibility for optimal safety!  There is nothing more frightening than encountering a white-out storm or horizontal icy rains and not being able to see more than 2 feet ahead of you. Upgrading dimmer or older bulbs to LEDs with bright, clear headlights will make a significant difference in visibility over increased distance.

Today is National World Records Day and we’re excited to share with you some of the most incredible world records involving all things automotive. From fastest car to longest jump and more, we’ve got plenty of fascinating historic moments to peruse.  Some records might be possible to break if you worked hard, but others require an immense amount of driving experience, finesse with your vehicle, and then some. There are some very skilled and creative people on this list, check it out! more Largest Loop-de-Loop in a Car This record was first set in 2015 and then broken again in 2019, both by the impressive British Stunt Driver, Terry Grant, during the Riyadh Season Festival in Saudi Arabia.  The drive required a 360-degree loop of 19.08 meters in diameter on round one, followed four years later by the same loop at 19.49 meters. Tightest Parallel Parking One of the most difficult things for new drivers to pass on their driver’s test is parallel parking. Sounds like stunt driver Alastair Moffatt could teach most of us a thing or two, though, as he broke not one but two records for parallel parking! His first record park was fitting his car into a space just 8.6cm longer than his car; he then broke his own record in 2015 by shimmying in a Fiat 500C into a space just 7.5cm longer than the car! Most Countries Visited By Car Fellow roadtrippers, the time has come to set your personal best bar even higher!  German driver Gunther Holtorf spent 26 years between 1988 and 2014 all around the world for a grand total of 180 countries visited!  Following in his footsteps is the impressive record of most countries visited in one continuous car journey which is a whopping 111 countries, set by both Jim Rogers and Paige Parker from the US. World’s Longest Car Michael Dezer of Dezerland Action Park in Orlando broke world records with an impressive 100+ foot 26-wheel long limousine, constructed from parts restored from the original record breaking vehicle. This unique vehicle has been dubbed “The American Dream”; it features a swimming pool with diving board, a helipad, putting green, and can accommodate 75 passengers, as well as being driveable from both ends of the vehicle. The current record was won in 2022, breaking the original 1986 record by an extremely small margin. Most Stickers On a Car We’ve all seen at least a wild car or two during our travels that appear to be covered fender to fender in stickers. But we can surely bet that no matter how many they have, they haven’t bested the record set by a group in Lithuania! With an impressive 14,637 different stickers and just under 24 hours time, six students worked together to cover a Nissan X-trail entirely with stickers and broke the world record. Their work was then proudly on display at a local shopping mall block. Winner of the World’s Longest Custom Banana Car You can count that sentence among things we’d never thought we’d say in our lives!  What began as a custom car project in 2009 eventually blossomed into a record breaking four-wheel drive road-worthy banana.  Creator Steve Braithwait started constructing his Big Banana Car based on a 1993 Ford F-150 Pickup Truck, and he worked tirelessly to construct the banana for 2 years utilizing chicken wife and polyurethane sculpting foam. The finished banana car broke records in 2011 for longest (and only!) four-wheel drive banana car. Learn more about world records featuring cars with this cool video from CarWow on Youtube.

In the spirit of the season of giving, and the fact that it’s National Philanthropy Day, we’re going to take a moment to share some great ways you can give back right in your own backyard. You don’t have to sign up for huge events, participate in large fundraiser shindigs, or even head overseas to make a difference. By doing small acts of kindness and caring in your own community, you’re helping neighbors, friends, and families as well as local businesses make a big impact. more Showing empathy and kindness through philanthropy helps improve the community’s overall wellbeing, beautifies your neighborhoods, and creates an incredible tapestry of human friendship and connection where everyone can thrive and flourish! While the most obvious and upfront version of philanthropy is financial support and monetary donations, there are so many other great ways to help. Check it out on today’s blog and learn more! Great Ways to Demonstrate Philanthropy Right Here at Home Build an empathetic community by sharing a moment with a “stranger” through a little dose of kindness. This can look like helping someone load groceries into their car, paying for someone’s meal behind you at the drive through, paying in advance for the coffee of the person in line after you, leave an extra large tip at the next restaurant or bar you visit, call the local utility company or medical facility and pay off someone’s bill at random. Reach out to a local nonprofit and ask what they need. Most local not-for-profit and nonprofit organizations will have a reserve bank of volunteers they reach out to when needed. This might include stuffing envelopes for capital campaign donations, distributing flyers for special events, helping set up for receptions and Make a donation to a local food bank or host a food drive in your neighborhood. Encourage your friends, neighbors and loved ones to donate non-perishables to your efforts or add to your donation bin. Remember to include shelf-stable specialty goods like allergen friendly ingredients, gluten free food, and even seasonings!  Organize a drop spot at your business or your school or office, and then bring the collective donations to a larger facility. You can also host your own pick-up event for those who need it, or leave a shelf outside your business for those who require it to take what they need. Create a Little Free Pantry for your home or local park. Stock the free pantry with shelf stable goods, toiletries, hygiene products, and refill it often.  This small act of community giving provides easy access to healthy foods and necessities without having to fill out lengthy applications for funding, stand in long lines, or other prohibitive measures.  It can also be helpful to stock these pantries with pet-friendly items, too. Volunteer your time and energy at local spaces. Donating your time  within your local community soup kitchen and/or shelter can do a world of good. Volunteer your cooking prowess at your local soup kitchen to help shop, prepare, organize, and serve meals to those who need it most.  Call your local senior center or nursing home and ask if they need volunteer visitors for game nights, bingo events, musical performances, etc.  Lend your skills on contracting, carpentry or woodworking skills to building community housing for nonprofit housing organizations. Stay educated on the local level and vote to lend your support in local, state, and federal elections. Exercising your right to vote is a vital part of the process to improve local legislature to ensure public assistance programming, special grants, and local non-profits receive essential funding. Electing  lawmakers and legislature which support community-based care programs, free and low-cost school lunches, public housing, and affordable medical/psychiatric care programs makes a big difference. Hand out winter-weather survival packages with necessities and personal care items in your local city or town. Create bags with shelf-stable allergen-friendly foods, personal items and toiletries, etc.  and hand them around to folks who need it. Likewise, you can drop them off at the local domestic shelter or homeless shelter or you can give them out to people in need as you meet them.  During cold weather months, give out hats, mittens, scarves, thermal underwear, and thick socks to the packages. Consider also adding gift cards to local food stores or ride share services to help the folks sustain their safety and access resources. Include local area non-profits as part of your inheritance in your will. If there is a particular cause that really aligns with your goals and values, in many cases it is possible to leave a legacy gift by listing the organization as beneficiary.  You’ll need the charity’s full legal name and tax ID Number and have an attorney draft up the gift amount.  This legacy gift can also be left in your memoriam or honor of your family.  You can designate the funds for a specific cause within the organization such as a “capital campaign” “children’s group project” “arts school classes” etc.  It’s possible to leave cash, real estate, personal property, and even stocks as part of this legacy gifting. Join a local creator, musician, or other group’s Patreon subscribers. Enrolling as part of someone’s Patreon account can provide lasting and ongoing support for independent creators and artists. By becoming a patron of this person, you are allowing them to continue to support their creative endeavors, lifelong project goals, special releases, limited runs of artwork or music, and more. It allows the person a guaranteed source of income to pursue their business goals and dreams. Some tiers may offer gifts or rewards, but you can also back the projects at a no-reward level or amount of your choosing above their ascribed tiers. It’s a great way to support local artists and ensure a thriving community of vibrant creative people and beautify the areas! What are some things that you and your family do to give back to your communities and help fight hunger and homelessness, and provide stability to those in need?  Feel free to contribute to the conversation by pitching in your own community-centric, neighborly suggestions in the comments on our social media.

Today’s blog is dedicated to spending some time in the Great Outdoors! Whether your nature enthusiast tendencies lean towards hiking, mountain biking, nature photography, kayaking, or even hunting, we’ve got some great places for you to check out. more Don’t let the chilly temps get you down, there’s still so much to do and enjoy in the local, county, state, and even national parks nearby.  Let’s explore together in today's post for National Get Outdoors Week. Check Out These Hunting Spots in Illinois First, we’re going to share some selected spots for hunting throughout the state of Illinois. Remember, you do need a valid state hunting license, local and federal stamps and permits for particular game, and to abide by signage in each area .Be sure to check-in with local park rangers to double check restrictions and off-limits areas at each region. Let’s check out the Shawnee National Forest. From early fall through late winter, certain public lands in Illinois are open for animal population control by permit, and your choice of firearms or archery will vary by date. For those seeking out whitetail deer and turkey, you’ll find a plethora in Shawnee Forest, along with squirrels, doves, and various waterfowl. The best areas include Garden of the Gods Recreation Area, Pennant Bar Openlands, Whoopie Cat Lake, Bald Knob Wilderness, Panther Den Wilderness and more. Next on our list is the Rend Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area. This spot is home to numerous deer, turkey, small game like rabbit and pheasant. This area contains bottomland hardwoods, upland fields, and plenty of waterfront areas. Be mindful of posted prohibited game such as specific waterfowl and limitations on age/type of deer available. Chain O’ Lakes State Park offers a variety of game options seasonally, including deer and turkey, squirrels and rabbits, pheasant, partridge, quail, rabbit, and more. This area also allows permitted falconers to do trained raptor-based hunting, which is a unique option.  Fishing is also extremely popular as well. Horseshoe Lake and the nearby Chouteau Island and Bohm Woods Nature Preserve areas offer limited hunting for waterfowl and dove. Enjoy a Trek To Reunite with Mother Nature The leaves may have fallen and gone, and the landscape may appear barren, but there’s still so much to appreciate about late November and early December before the major snowfalls begin. Your usual overlooks and vista points will offer an unparalleled view of even more mountains and cities than ever before thanks to the lack of leaves obstructing the landscape. So take a chance and explore these great parks and waterfalls in the less popular season for a new perspective on your favorite places. Iron Oaks Forest Preserve in Olympia is a fantastic family-friendly destination full of nature adventures, educational opportunities, and recreational activities.  The forest preserve has everything from climbing walls to create climbing challenges to a high ropes course and so much more.  In the winter, visitors can enjoy cross country skiing or snowshoeing excursions on the nature trails. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve has 11 miles of hiking trails with varying difficulties that also allow horseback riding, cycling, and even cross-country skiers weather permitting. This preserve offers savannas, oak and maple woodlands, prairies, and of course the beautiful Rocky Glen Waterfall. Busey Woods Gateway Trail offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of town but without the long trip.  Nestled in the center of the Champaign-Urbana area, this beautiful area offers  plenty of paths and trails!  You can even partake in geocaching, some immersive nature and wildlife appreciation, and lots of information boards along the way to learn about plants and animals. White Pines Forest State Park covers 385 acres of parklands and is the perfect place for an outdoor getaway.  You’ll enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, picnicking, nature photography, bird watching, archery, cross country skiing, hunting, and much more.

No matter what you celebrate, it’s always good fun and cheer to share gift exchanges with your friends, family, and loved ones, and of course, there’s the annual company party with coworkers.  If you’re looking for a little guidance to get the perfect gift this holiday season, we’ve got you covered with some great gifts for car enthusiasts and serious gearheads. more If you’re looking for something for your fellow gearheads or to gift to your car enthusiast family member, these items will be a surefire hit!  We’ve scouted out some different pricepoint options for each item, too, so we can help you find something to suit every holiday gifting budget. First on our list is this Tekton ½” Drive Micrometer Torque Wrench with a convenient carrying case which is about $50. And this Amazon Basics ¼” Drive Click Torque Wrench which is slightly more budget friendly.  Both of these torque wrenches are a must-have, and will be one of the most used tools in your garage. The Diehard 73-Piece Roadside Emergency Tool Kit with Portable Tote is the perfect gift for an amateur mechanic as well as the seasoned road-tripper. This will help get you out of a pickle in a pinch, with easy-access basic tools to fix most minor to intermediate automotive problems on the road, and get you started in your home garage explorations Next on our list we’ll be sharing some tire jacks for different budgets and garage set-ups!  First up is this 2 Ton Compact Trolley Jack from Pittsburgh Automotive as our most budget friendly option with easy carry-handle and caster wheels for ease of transport. If you’re looking for something easily portable and perfect for everyday travel the Car Jack Kit from Gurduenon features a 2 Ton Scissor Jack, a ratchet and lug wrench, gloves, tire gauge, and handy storage bag to stow away in your trunk. The Daytona 3 ton Low-Profile Professional Floor Jack with Rapid Pump is the perfect choice if your vehicle has been lowered or has low-clearance.  It’s great for show cars! As you drive back and forth to your holiday get-togethers, it’s important to remember that traffic will be high and accidents generally increase, and it’s always a good idea to make sure you’re safe and secure. So with that in mind, we’re sharing some great options for various price points in the Dash Cam sector, starting with this affordable option from I sEasy available at Walmart!  This option has a front and rear camera and a 2” screen that records in 1080P and includes an infrared night vision and 24hr recording. One price point higher is t he K600 4K Dash Cam with front and rear cameras and a slightly larger screen with 2160P quality and Night Vision and wide angle camera mode. Offers built-in 5G wifi with app access. The Pruveeo 360 degree 4 channel dash cam offers front, rear, inside, left, and right recording with Night Vision for additional coverage and security. The Nextbase 522GW Dash Cam comes with built-in Alexa with voice activation, 1440P recording, is bluetooth and wi-fi enabled, is enabled with an emergency SOS that contacts local emergency services in case of an accident, and more. It’s the priciest option in the group, but certainly well worth it for the feature rich experience.

We’ll take any available chance to hit the road and explore any of our country’s 50 unique states! Today, we’re celebrating Louisiana Day with a fun guide of interesting and must-see destinations around the state.  You’ll find kitschy roadside stops, haunted houses, historic museums, and plenty of photo-worthy stops on our guide. Just say “good bayou” to boring vacations and hello to excitement and unforgettable memories. more Memorable and Exciting Places to Visit in Louisiana The Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum is a fascinating locally run attraction commemorating the couple’s very dramatic end on their final ambush.  The owner of this facility is the son of one of the officers that responded to the scene at the time. The result is an eclectic mix of memorabilia including firearms, the original car windshield, replicas of their tombstones, and items from Bonnie and Clyde’s personal wardrobe. Every spring there’s even a special event called “Bonnie and Clyde Day” which includes speakers and special displays. There’s no charge to visit the museum, making it a perfect add-on to any trip for something offbeat and unusual. It’s a small stop off but jampacked with Great Depression era information and a specialty look at these romanticized historic icons. The Abita Mystery House is a true roadside gem and one-of-a-kind experience. This is a truly offbeat art installation and collection of oddities and creative sculptures made of found objects and vintage collectibles. Visitors all have trouble adequately describing the full experience, and encourage other travelers to stop in and see for themselves just how unusual and kitschy it is! Many of the displays are interactive, making it a prime spot for children who adore hands-on experiences.  You can even purchase some unique gifts and memorabilia in the shop at the end. If you get the chance to speak with the owner/artist, too, we’d recommend it for a more enhanced experience. It’s described as an abstract, surrealist, nostalgic venue. Stop in for yourself and see what you think and let us know your thoughts! The Kentwood Historical Museum and Cultural Arts Center offers two unique buildings: one dedicated to WWII history, featuring photographs and artifacts brought back by local soldiers in the war; the second dedicated to the life and career of the iconic pop star, Britney Spears, whose hometown is Kentwood. The Britney Spears exhibit is the facility’s most popular, and chronicles her rise to pop stardom, featuring artifacts and costumes from tours, photographs from her life, awards and displays, and a replica of the stage created during her Dream Within a Dream tour! The Museum of Death New Orleans is located in the French Quarter, and has fully leaned into its macabre fascination with this natural human process. While the exhibits are labeled as all ages, some sensitive visitors may find some displays a little too graphic or upsetting, so use caution if visiting with younger children; although if you do faint from shock, you’ll apparently be awarded an “i passed out at the museum of death…and lived to talk about it.” commemorative shirt!  The strange museum features items such as a body back collection, letters and pictures sent in from serial killers, death themed oddities, shrunken heads, skeletons and taxidermy, embalming and autopsy video displays, and other morbid ephemera.  It’s not for the faint of heart, but certainly a very memorable experience! Music Box Village features unusual architecture and a fantastical collection of hands–on displays encouraging an exploration of music and song.  The grounds were curated and designed by a creative collective of more than 80 artists and designers, each offering unique sculptures, interactive music houses, and whimsical experimental artworks. This avant garde venue also hosts a series of public art workshops, movement and music classes, and focused panels on creative topics. You can also enjoy local food from the NOLA area, and specialty drinks at the full on site bar!  The rotating cast of artists-in-residence means the grounds are always growing, evolving, and updating. Make sure to check the calendar and event listings to catch something unique on your visit! Jungle Gardens on Avery Island features 170 acres of curated tropical gardens and botanical installations, and a stunning rookery/bird colony where thousands of birds migrate and shelter each year. This beautiful haven on Avery Island is also home to an abundance of diverse wildlife, making it an incredible place to visit for nature lovers. You can spot black bears, wildcats, coyotes, armadillos, otters, and more in and around the island area.  For a reasonable price of $50, photographers can wander the grounds year round and snap incredible nature backdrops in their family photos!  You can opt into the TravelStorys app and take yourself on a self-guided tour with an enhanced experience. Other fantastic areas of note include: The USS Kidd Veterans Museum featuring a Fletcher-class Destroyer from WWII era. Gardens of the American Rose Society f eaturing 118-acres of stunning curated roses. Global Wildlife Center is the largest wildlife center of its kind, and offers a fun safari tour! Musical Legends Park features life-sized statues of famous music artists from NOLA. Atchafalaya Basin is the largest swamp in the entire country and offers numerous tours. Chauvin Sculpture Garden has more than 100 statues by mysterious artist Kenny Hill. Tabasco Factory Museum Tour and Restaurant on Avery Island. Bayou Suvage National WIldlife Refuge covers 24,000 acres and is the largest urban wildlife refuge in the US. National Hansen’s Disease Museum chronicling the history of a quarantine hospital for leprosy patients and cemetery. Bayou St. John Confederate Submarine at the Louisiana State Museum exhibit.

EV9 “ADVNTR” CONCEPT EV SUV – the most adventurous EV SUV offering rugged capability and maximum lifestyle flexibility PV5 “WKNDR” CONCEPT EV VAN 1 – the coolest and most capable EV designed to complement the bold side of life IRVINE, Calif., November 5, 2024 – Kia America unveiled two all-new customized concept vehicles on the opening day of the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas. Imagined by designers from Kia Design Center America (KDCA), the concepts bring to life an easy to imagine future where vehicles will provide the ultimate in capability, adaptability, utility and organization and all with an eye on sustainability. more EV9 ADVNTR CONCEPT EV SUV & PV5 WKNDR CONCEPT EV VAN Known as a showcase for concept vehicles from mild to extreme, SEMA features manufacturers of automotive accessories designed to enhance the performance, styling, comfort, convenience and safety of current and future cars, trucks and SUVs. From the latest accessories, exciting concept vehicles and one-of-a-kind models, to special editions featuring advanced safety and technology, SEMA is the trade show for automotive enthusiasts who know, love and understand vehicles inside and out. For the 2024 SEMA Show, the design team at Kia Design Center America (KDCA), based in Irvine, CA, developed two custom concept lifestyle vehicles that intrinsically blend form and function into machines designed for responsible engagement with nature: EV9 ADVNTR CONCEPT EV SUV – this truly unique all-electric 3-row SUV is designed to take life well beyond the beaten path.  And conquer it. Built for serious fun, this 2025 EV9 EV SUV has been refined into the most adventurous SUV Kia has ever imagined. With custom front and rear facias for a unique and rugged look – and a reinforced rocker panels for increased capability and character – the EV9 ADVNTR EV SUV also features a 3” lift compared to the standard EV9 and a rugged tire and wheel combination to maximize the vehicle’s off-road capability. A custom roof rack can handle everything from standard luggage containers to bespoke roof-mounted tents that transform the EV9 ADVNTR into a machine perfect for getaways in the great outdoors. Rough and ready, the EV9 ADVNTR EV SUV is Kia’s latest expression of a lifestyle utility vehicle ready for tomorrow’s adventures. PV5 WKNDR CONCEPT EV VAN PV5 WKNDR CONCEPT EV VAN – is based on Kia’s recently debuted line of EV PBVs, or Purpose Beyond Vehicles, designed for small business and delivery functionality. It is a highly capable van allowing expression of your lifestyle wherever it may take you. Lifted and equipped with off road tires, it is an ideal escape pod for extended weekends in nature. The PV5 WKNDR EV VAN features a highly flexible and adaptable modular interior that can be easily and efficiently customized to maximize space and function – akin to a Swiss Army Knife on wheels. The van’s “Gear Head” feature is the first-of-its-kind storage solution that provides an off-board, sheltered storage space for gear when the vehicle is stationary, allowing for maximum utilization of interior space while still offering easy access to gear outside. The PV5 WKNDR EV VAN’s “Gear Head” can also be transformed into a mobile pantry for cooking afficionados that want to “Cook with a View”. Truly self-sufficient, the PV5 WKNDR EV VAN features solar panels and unique hydro turbine wheels that can recharge the batteries for many uses.  As an example, Kia installed an onboard compressor to handle needs for inflation, from adjusting tire pressure when out on the trail to inflating space efficient mattresses when setting up camp for the night. In addition to the custom EV9 ADVNTR EV SUV and PV5 WKNDR EV VAN, Kia collected an assortment of active lifestyle products for display and integration into the concept of “Beyond Organization” designed to support an organized and efficient lifestyle. This concept allows provides a “plug and play” solution for managing gear and improving campground set up times significantly as organizing gear before and after a trip is a common pain point that Kia wants to address – and in turn – give time for enjoyment back to their customers. Kia also developed one-of-a-kind versions of three of the brand’s most popular SUV models based on figures found in Greek mythology to present a creative and unique blend of accessories from Kia and select partners, including: Sportage | THETIS Goddess of Water – Developed in conjunction with Rhino Rack, this custom Sportage model is designed to go well beyond the pavement. Featuring a custom wrap depicting white water rapids secured by XPEL Paint Protection Film, rose gold trim, and custom Fifteen52 wheels wrapped with Open Country Toyo Tires, the THETIS Sportage is the clear vehicle of choice for river adventures.  Rhino Rack’s Kayak mount & attachments are in place to securely carry toys to the water’s edge. The THETIS Sportage will be displayed at the Rhino Rack Booth. Telluride | ZEUS God of The Sky & Thunder – In conjunction with Xpel, this custom Telluride model features wrapped images of mountain ranges, Fifteen52 wheels mounted with Open Country Toyo Tires and an iKamper to accommodate “human recharging” for the next adventure. The ZEUS Telluride was built for courage to cross the toughest terrain with an Eibach lift kit to conquer even the most daring of outdoor excursions. Inside the rear cargo area is a smart organized MOD Storage System from Yakima to keep gear arranged. Since ZEUS is the God of Thunder, the vehicle wouldn’t be complete without thunderous exhaust from an installed BORLA exhaust system. The ZEUS Telluride will be displayed at a SEMA featured vehicle location outside of the West Hall near the SEMA Overland Expo. Sorento | GAIA Goddess of Earth – With a neutral color scheme, gold tone trim and blacked out off-road Fifteen52 wheels wrapped with Open Country Toyo Tires, the GAIA Sorento model is designed to blend into nature along off-road trails. And once the destination has been reached, a Yakima awning provides shade from the sun to allow for glare free viewing of favorite content on the outdoor projector screen and a Kicker outdoor soundbar. GAIA Sorento is also equipped with Baja Design lightbars and perimeter lights to keep the campground safely illuminated once the sun goes down. The GAIA Sorento will be on display in the XPEL booth at SEMA. “Kia’s rugged and capable utility vehicles have long been known for being versatile, adaptable and comfortable to suit the needs of a wide range of consumers. We wanted to ‘level up’ the functionality and capability by developing these concepts that take those legendary attributes to the next level,” said Steven Center, COO & EVP, Kia America. “Our vehicles already help people live their active and adventurous lifestyles and it was fun to see just how far we could go with these latest concepts. The SEMA Show acts as a blank canvas for creativity and offers a glimpse into what Kia’s automotive future may hold.” PV5 WKNDR CONCEPT EV VAN Kia America – about us Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys. Kia is recognized as one of the TIME World's Most Sustainable Companies of 2024. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and WNBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles sold through a network of over 775 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America*. For media information, including photography, visit www.kiamedia.com. To receive custom email notifications for press releases the moment they are published, subscribe at www.kiamedia.com/us/en/newsalert * Certain EV9 all-electric three-row SUV, Sportage (excludes HEV and PHEV models), Sorento (excludes HEV and PHEV models), and Telluride are assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts. 1 EV9 “ADVNTR” CONCEPT EV SUV and PV5 “WKNDR” CONCEPT EV VAN are concept/display vehicles only. Each is specially modified. Vehicles not for sale.

Today is National Stress Awareness Day, and nothing could be more fitting as we close out this tenuous election year season.  Today, we’re sharing some tips and tricks that can help you remain calm while driving, reduce your stress during your commute, and assist you in increased focus while on the road.  Alleviate your travel stress with these pointers, and they may just reduce your stress elsewhere in your life, too. Make more time for calm and mindful activity in your life, and you might also see improvement in your physical health as well. more No matter where you’re heading off to, try to allow yourself an extra 15 to 30 minutes of driving time to allow for delays, traffic, and a little unwinding time after arrival. Allowing a buffer zone for delays has been said to significantly reduce stress and affords drivers more patience to obey traffic laws and speed limits. Instead of panicking about tardiness, it allows us plenty of time to account for unexpected delays such as traffic, accidents, or other roadway hazards.  Additionally, should you encounter a delay, you’ll have plenty of time ahead of the game to alert your coworkers or anyone who is expecting you about the delays, so they can make alternative arrangements for your absence. Give yourself a break from the daily commute by opting for public transportation, carpooling, and rideshares to alleviate pressures from constant traffic exposure. Utilizing mass public transit options can provide us a little relief from having to be focused on the commute, and allow us more personal time to read, explore hobbies, chat with friends, etc. Taking public transport also can provide a sense of community and satisfy our brain’s inherent desire to be around other people, and to experience novel environments.  It may also reduce spending on fuel and car repairs over time. Take the scenic route when possible! Driving on the same roadways and highways through busy urban areas can become monotonous and stressful.  Give your brain and body a rest and take the route with less tolls, less highway congestion, and opt for some backroads instead such as roadways which lead you through wooded or natural reserve areas.  Take in the scenery around you as you drive, and roll down your windows for some fresh air! Create a routine of mindful breathing, meditation practices like yoga or mantra recitation, peaceful walks in nature, or other methods of calming measures to reduce overall stress loads on and off the roadways. Building a repertoire of deep breathing and calming techniques can come in handy when you encounter frustrating drivers on the road!   Focus on taking slow, calm, and controlled breaths by inhaling slowly through your nose, then exhaling slowly through your mouth. You can always pull over and focus on some music and continue your breathing if necessary until calm and close your eyes to tune out the environment.vehicles to have a break from constant hustle-and-bustle, allowing you more disposable income for other activities. Try not to drive on an empty stomach, and make sure to eat something with adequate protein and hydrate before you hit the road. Many people have increased frustration and decreased patience when hunger sets in, and a hangry driver isn’t going to make a friendly driver!  You can increase your patience and calm, as well as be more focused and intentional about your driving after you’ve eaten well.  If you know you’re short on time in the mornings or between activities, it can be helpful to keep a stash of shelf-stable snacks and beverages in your vehicle for easy access. Do your best to keep to posted traffic speeds and reduce “lead footed” driving habits. When driving above the posted speed limit, it can increase frustration when driving behind someone who is perceived to be “a slowpoke”, causing undue stress for everyone involved.  Road rage isn’t good for anyone! Keeping to posted traffic speeds and obeying road signs can reduce our tension, increase our focus on the changing traffic patterns, and allows plenty of time to stop short to prevent accidents. Keep your eyes on the road and off of your electronics for more mindful driving habits. Distracted driving can cause significant accidents and increase stress due to lack of focus. In fact, statistically speaking, watching videos on your infotainment center, participating in video chats or even texting whilst driving can significantly increase accident risk, even more than drunk driving. Reduce unnecessary stress and anxiety about collisions by keeping your eyes on the road and off of our phones, devices, and infotainment screens.

The only thing we can think of that’s more American than Baseball and voting on Election Day is American Football!  The NFL really has become such an indelible part of our social culture that it’s synonymous with the fall season and Thanksgiving holidays. There’s truly nothing like sitting down for a good, hearty meal with your loved ones, and then napping it off on the couch later while watching the Big Game. Today, we’re celebrating American Football Day with some super fun Chicago and Wisconsin themed car gear that you can snag to show your loyalty to local teams.  With the approaching holidays and everyone gearing up for family bonding time over sports, we thought it would be a great day to share some fun NFL themed gear so you can drive to your dinners in style and team-spirit!  (Plus, these items would also make the perfect gift for that gearhead in your life who has just about everything they could want for their personal garage, so they can add a little more personal touch to their ride.) more Check it out on today’s blog, and tell us who you’re rooting for this football season in the comments! Head into tailgate season with these fun Chicago Bears themed items! Insulate your hands from that cold lake-effect wind with this Chicago Bears Logo Steering Wheel cover. Don’t leave Fido behind this Thanksgiving!  Protect your car and take your furry friends along for the festivities with this Chicago Bears themed Pet Hammock Car Seat Protector. Add a little pizazz and team spirit to your front and rear plates with this Chicago Bears Chrome Color License Plate Frame! You don’t have to sacrifice style and personality on your pickup trucks and SUVs. You can have it all with this Chicago Bears Metal Tow Hitch cover! Keep your car’s interior protected from harmful UV rays with this Chicago Bears branded Windshield Sun Shade! Add a little subtle hint of where your loyalties lie during football season with this Fanmats Chicago Bears Windshield Decal! We love these Chicago Bears themed flags that clip into your truck or SUV’s hood as an alternative to the window-clip flags. Let everyone know you’re screaming Go Pack Go as you drive by with these Greenbay themed car gear items! Bringing your pets with you for holiday visits or the kids’ sports games? Protect your car and take your furry friends along for the festivities with this Greenbay Team themed Pet Hammock Car Seat Protector. Keep your keys handy and never lose your work badge again with the Greenbay Packers themed Lanyard set Protect your vehicle’s interior from all your off-road messes and flag football game mud with these NFL Rally Seat Covers in the Greenbay Packers Pattern! We absolutely love these car coasters shaped like a wheel of cheese emblazoned with “Cheesehead” so you can show your GB Pride even in the smallest of details. Who doesn’t love a quirky car decoration, like this J ordan Love windshield wiper sticker, guaranteed to bring a smile to whomever is following behind you on a grey, rainy day. This textured Packers Football Grip Steering Wheel Cover is a comfort grip steering wheel cover with an embroidered team logo and faux football textured accents.