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We know you’ve been following our tips, tricks, and pointers for maintaining your vehicle, but we also know that accidents and malfunctions still happen. Sometimes things occur that are out of our control, so it’s helpful to be prepared for just about any situation. Today, we’re going to share a helpful guide on what to do if, despite your best efforts, you encounter an issue with your vehicle’s engine overheating. Your engine overheating can be a bit of an alarming occurrence, but there’s some very easy steps you can take to prevent permanent damage to an overheated engine. more Know before you go!  Read our thorough guide to learn the signs, what each of them means, and how to handle yourself and keep cool under pressure. What are  the initial signs and hints that a problem is brewing under the hood: You notice what appears to be “steam” or smoke coming out from under the hood. The check engine light or “temperature” light on the instrument panel is illuminated. You notice a sweet aroma from the engine area, which may indicate a leak in the coolant/antifreeze. The engine temperature gauge is spiking into the red or hits “H” for Hot. What to do once you’ve noticed your engine is overheating: Put your hazards on to indicate to drivers around you that you are experiencing an issue and may be driving slower; it will keep you safer on the road than driving without. Turn off your AC, open your windows, and turn on the Heat. Yes, you read that right!  Using the AC will put an additional strain on your overheated engine, but putting on the heat will draw the hot air away from and reduce the load on the engine. Find a place to pull over as soon as you can, and shut off your engine. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes.  You can check how it’s going with the temperature gauge on your instrument cluster. If you have assessed the situation and are sure that there are no leaks, you can top off the coolant in the radiator and reservoir.  You may allow your vehicle to idle for a little while to ensure that it does not spike to “H” or illuminate the temperature gauge before attempting to drive it to safety. Use your phone to call roadside assistance, a local towing company, or a friend who can help tow your vehicle to the nearest mechanic. If you are unable to reach anyone due to poor signal, or need to get your car to a better spot for tow truck access, you can carefully restart your engine and slowly drive it to a safer destination as long as you are keeping your eye on the temperature gauge and keeping it in the lower range; if it spikes, pull over, turn the car off and wait another 15 minutes. Things you should NEVER DO if you notice your vehicle is overheating: DO NOT continue on to your destination; continuing to drive your vehicle in this state can risk permanent engine damage, increases risk of fire, and can lead to deadly accidents. DO NOT open the hood immediately after pulling over. The engine is at extremely high temperatures, and you are risking serious burns and injury.  Wait until the temperature gauge is in normal or cooler temperatures to examine the situation under the hood. DO NOT delay scheduling a service call or maintenance appointment. The longer you drive your car in this condition, the more permanent damage and related issues you’re causing. It won’t fix itself or resolve the problem without a trusted mechanic’s diagnosis and service. DO NOT add cold water to the radiator, as this may cause the engine to crack!  If you do add any water, it should be room temperature to avoid further damage. What are the best practices to prevent engine overheating and maintain your engine: Check your coolant levels regularly.  Open the hood and look for the radiator reservoir (usually white, and clearly marked with “coolant” or “antifreeze” or similar symbols/phrasing.)  You will note a level on the side of the reservoir; you want the level to be between “low” and “full”, and if not be sure to top it off until it is!  Use a funnel to help you neatly fill the reservoir. If you notice that the coolant level reads low, allow the engine to cool down and then add more coolant. Consult your vehicle manufacturer manual for proper coolant types. Have your trusted mechanic or service technician drain, flush, and dispose of old radiator fluid. They’ll then replace it with fresh fluid. Ask your mechanic or technician to perform an inspection of the coolant system and its seals, gaskets, and hoses, and replace anything that appears to be worn or broken. Perform regular oil changes and maintain a proper oil level at all times, and never drive your vehicle when it’s got low or sludgy oil. Bring it in to your mechanic for service if you do not wish to perform an oil change yourself.

Today Is National Drive-In Movie Day! Here’s some great drive-in theatres in the area to check out and make a stop off on your next road trip. It will be a memorable experience to last a lifetime!  We’ve included picks from Wisconsin, Illinois, and Indiana, so you can find one wherever the road may take you! more The Milky Way Drive-In in Milwaukee, WI Chi-town Futbol and Movies in Chicago, IL McHenry Indoor/Outdoor Theater in McHenry (formerly the Skyline Drive-In) Blue Moonlight Drive-In Theater in Galesburg, IL Harvest Moon Drive-In Theatre in Gibson City, IL The Chicago Drive-In in Bridgeview, IL The Cascade Drive-In in West Chicago, IL Midway Drive-In, Sterling, IL Route 66 Drive-In Theater Hi-Way 18 Outdoor Theatre in Jefferson, WI 49er Drive-In Theatre in Valparaiso, IN Tibs Drive-In in Indianapolis,IN Route 34 Drive-In in Earlville, IL Melody Drive-In in Knox, IN Skyview Drive-In in Litchfield, IL Starlite Drive-In in Bloomington, IN Wondering what to bring along for your guests? We’ve got you covered! Here’s a breakdown of suggested items to pack for the best drive-in experience from young to old! Going to the drive-in is an exciting experience for little ones, and a unique date night idea for those looking to switch things up a bit.  And we love to keep a little bag of tricks in our trunk to ensure things go swiftly and smoothly no matter what! For Kiddos: Pack an overnight bag with extra clean clothes - one spare outfit per child.  Choose something that’s easy to put on such as PJs or sweatpants or leggings.  For babies or toddlers, consider packing at least two onesies or sleepsuits.  Plan for being out late, and perhaps having some spills or accidents needing a swap. Pack little lunch boxes with juice boxes, baggies of fresh fruits and veggies, and of course plenty of little crackers and munchies to keep them satisfied.  Make sure to include some insulated  water bottles to keep them hydrated. Bring something cuddly and cozy such as a hooded blanket, an easy-to-clean fleece blanket, or a cotton throw. Consider adding some easy outdoor toys such as velcro mitts with a tennis ball, a frisbee, beanbag toss, or similar to play outside a little before the movie starts. A box or two of glowsticks or glow bracelets and little spinning flashlights for kids to play with in the dark, and make it less scary. For Everyone: Soft, comfortable cushions with waterproof material for sitting outside, or even for using in your vehicle for added luxury. A few lap blankets to keep you warm and cozy and comfortable in your car, or to lay across your lap if you’ve opted to sit outdoors. Folding chairs for those who need a change of pace from sitting in the car and want to sit outside. A box filled with your favourite movie theatre snacks, chips, crackers, and other snack packs and candies. A cooler filled with canned beverages and bottled drinks and water, and some fresh fruits or veggies. Or fancy it up with a premade charcuterie tray for a date night twist! Lots of wet wipes, napkins, paper towels, and hand sanitizer (and you might even want to toss a spare roll or two of toilet paper in there in case the bathrooms are less than equipped.) Bring some bug spray in case you leave your windows open or opt for the outdoor seating. Flashlights and LED candles can add a little ambiance and also make it easier to find your way to and from the concessions or bathroom in the dark. Last but not least, a few plastic grocery bags and a trash bag to gather up your garbage at the end of the night or to bag up wet clothing.

Just a few more weeks and Summer will be in full swing. We can’t wait!  It’s time to pack up that beach gear, stuff those suitcases full of breezy outfits, and make your hotel reservations.  But before you hit the road, make sure to get your car ready for all the Summer travel of your dreams with these helpful service tips. more Check your tires. Inspect all of your tires, including the spare/donut if you have one, and check for cuts, bulges, bubbles, or other suspicious damages.  Make sure your tires are properly inflated to pressure recommendations (check inside the door frame, or your manufacturer’s manual), and have them rotated for even wear. Consider switching your winter tires for All-Season or Summer tires.  It is also a great time to purchase a portable tire inflation device for those just in case situations. Inspect the wiper blades and windshield. Inspect the glass and make sure there are no nicks or cracks, and if there are, get the glass replaced before you head out on the road!  Apply a hydrophobic protective coating on the windshield such as Rain-X or similar, to help increase your visibility in rainy and foggy weather.  Replace your wiper blades (check your owner’s manual for proper sizing) and choose the best quality option that you can afford, preferably also with hydrophobic coating on them.  Top off your windshield wiper fluid and carry an extra bottle in your trunk to refill – lots of highway driving means lots of dirt, debris, mud, muck, and even bugs will hit your windshield. Check the brakes. Thoroughly examine and test your brakes, and make sure they are properly serviced about 2 weeks before your big road trip.  If you hear any grinding, squealing, or feel any vibrations, service your brakes immediately.  A professional mechanic will ensure the brake lines, pads, rotors, shoes, and drums are in good condition, and if there are any problems or fluid leaks. Service your AC/Heating and Coolant systems. Have your AC serviced and air vents cleaned, and while you’re there have your mechanic check the radiator and coolant as well.  The AC is going to draw additional power and fuel from your engine. Extended travel means more mileage and wear-and-tear on the engine, and you want to avoid overheating.  However, if your car does start to overheat and you’re in a pinch, turn on the heating system in your car to draw heat away from the engine, and open your windows to keep cool until you can safely pull over and call for roadside assistance. Up your memberships with your vehicle’s roadside assistance plans or similar service such as AAA. Make sure that you’re covered in case of emergency, especially if you’re planning to do some long distance road tripping, or even some car-camping.  These services can save you a lot of aggravation, time, and money in the event of an emergency or accident. Refill your emergency kit and replenish first aid supplies. Always make sure your roadside emergency kit is prepared for warm weather emergencies.  Stock up on space-saving water bottles, instant ice packs, cooling blankets and cooling towels, sunscreen, and other general First Aid supplies.  In the event of an  emergency, you’ll be able to keep cool while you wait for help, as well as you’ll be able to administer basic first aid and stay hydrated!

Who loves saving money? Yeah, we do, too!  That’s why on today’s blog we’re talking all about driving habits and tips that can save you money.  Just think about all the adventures you can have on the road knowing you can save a few dollars and enjoy an extra excursion or two. more Tip #1 The harder you accelerate, and the higher your speed, the more fuel you’ll be using.  In order to save fuel, and money, you’ll want to drive conservatively by keeping a reasonable distance between the person in front of you, reducing your need to brake/accelerate frequently.  Maintaining a steady speed on highways will reserve fuel and give you better mpg. Typically the best fuel economy is between 55-65mph.  Using cruise control, when it;s safe to do so, can also help you save money and reduce stress on the engine. Tip #2 Driving with your windows down above 65mph can decrease your car’s aerodynamics and slows down your car, requiring more fuel to run. At higher speeds, it’s better to close the windows and turn on the AC; if you’re driving under 65mph you may want to open the windows and turn off the AC to increase fuel efficiency and keep cool. Tip #4 Keep up with your vehicle’s regular, routine maintenance appointments.  Remember to keep your tires inflated, get regular wheel alignments, and rotate your tires.  Additionally, remember to keep your fluids topped off and flushed/cleaned regularly. Tip #5 Save a few bucks by being choosy about the time of day and week you fuel up! Fill your car at the start of the week, as gas prices usually rise higher by the end of the week. Fill your car up early in the morning or later in the day when the temperatures are cooler.  Gas expands when heated, so it will be denser and you’ll get better miles per gallon. (Of course, the best time to fill your tank is when you need it - do your best to keep your tank above ¼ gallon for best results!) Tip #6 Remember to change your air filter and oil filter regularly. These both help your vehicle’s engine run more efficiently and smoothly.  The oil filter should be swapped out with every oil change.  The air filter should be changed every 10,000-15,000 miles.

We’re back with another edition of our local community calendar. Find out what’s hot and what’s happening here in Lake County and the surrounding area!  We’ve selected some great activities and events for adults, kids, and families to enjoy all month long in June.  You’ll even find some spotlight events for Pride month to keep the love going and the community bonds strong.  Check it out! And, as always, if you’ve got an event our readers and fellow citizens would enjoy please let us know in the comments and link your fun event! more On June 3rd, head over to Belvidere Cinema Gallery in Waukegan from11:30 to 6:30PM and enjoy the Vieutopia Motion Picture Festival! On June 3rd at the Jack Benny Center for the Arts, learn more about how to participate in the Summer Dance Showcase Arts Festival between 1PM to 2PM. Any individual wishing to participate in the festival can get more information, ask questions, and learn about how it all works. On June 3rd from 10AM to 12PM at the Unitarian Universalist Church West of Brookfield, join in for a Banned Books STorytelling session to celebrate Pride month! Admission is free but donations are encouraged of non-perishable food goods to donate to the FOOD Pantry of Waukesha County. On June 4th at the Mike Rylko Community Park Nature Classroom in Buffalo Grove, join in for the Pride Parade and special Pride Picnic from 11:30AM to 2:30PM! On June 7th from 5PM to 8PM at the Bonnie Brook Golf Course, enjoy an evening of “grillin’ and chillin’” with the sounds of Ludy and his Lady LIVE at Bonnie Brook.  They’ll be covering classics from Sinatra, Tom Jones, Michael Buble, Adele, Cher, and many more! On June 7th, the Deerfield Public Library is continuing its Celebrate Pride Month events with a family-friendly party filled with crafts, games, and family fun!  Join in from 5PM to 6PM. The Waukegan Harbor and Marina’s Farmer Market starts on Wednesday June 7th and runs through September 27th from 3PM to 7PM!  Each week there will be 15-20 local vendors sharing fine foods, handmade crafts, fresh produce, and more. On June 8th at the Crystal Lake Public Library, join in from 6:30-8:30 for a Pride Craftstravaganza! On June 8th starting at 5PM head over to Waukegan BMX for WBMX Registration Day! It’s a new opportunity for enthusiasts to give racing a try without having to register for a membership with USA BMX.  Also happening this month on June 22nd at 5PM is the WBMX Race for Life, and later this summer August 24th is the WBMX Bob Warnicke Race. On June 10th and 17th in Aurora, head over  to The Cornucopia Shop from 2PM to 4PM for special Childrens Craft Day events for adults and children age 5+! On June 10th, Join local small businesses at the “Not Just Another ‘Expo’” from 3PM to 7PM  at the Milan  Banquet Hall. Shop small, shop local, and enjoy live music by DJ Cash as you peruse the wares at each booth.  Vendors will be selling everything from arts and crafts to toys, collectibles, jewelry, candles, clothes and much more! On June 10th at the G rowing Place Garden CEnter in Naperville and June 11th in Aurora families will enjoy the “Mini Garden Fest” events from 11AM to 3PM. Admission is free but some activities may have an additional cost. On June 10th, come on out to the LGBTQ Center of Round Lake Beach and the Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center from 12PM to 11PM and enjoy this year’s Lake County Pride Festival! June 11th is the 2023 PFLAG Pride Parade at the Grayslake Village Center in downtown Grayslake! Register your vehicle now for June 17th’s Waukegan Pride Celebration and Drive event! From 12PM to 4PM, the annual pride event now includes a resource fair, food and refreshments, live entertainment, and plenty of chances to make new friends and do some community outreach.  And best of all, it’s free! Saturday June 17th from 3PM to 6PM at Artpie Studio/Gallery/Art School you can join in for the Free Life Drawing/3 Minute Art Model Drawing session! Celebrate Juneteenth on June 19th with an incredible guided bus tour experience of historical African American history sites throughout the Lake County area. The tour is 2 hours long and includes a visit to the African American Museum at the England Manor. Running from June 20th through Saturday June 24th, “A Rose that Grew from Concrete  - Selfie Room Photo Exhibition”  is hosted by Evonndalynn Consulting as part of “Shine A Light on Trauma” programming.

Today is June 1st, and it’s the start of LGBTQ+ Pride Month!  We thought it would be fun to celebrate by kicking things off with a fun car post dedicated to rainbow car accessories and aesthetics.  You’ll find lots of fun things on our list, and if you happen to purchase any you can share them in the comments on our social media!  We’d love to see your new Classic Auto Group car decked out in cheerful, colorful accessories. more Great Rainbow and Pride Inclusive Gift Ideas for the Gearhead in Your Life This cloth steering wheel cover is available on amazon for $15! It will give your car a bit of pizazz and also protect the steering wheel and your hands from hot and cold weather. This super fun 2-in1 LED Car Rhythm Light has a voice-activated rhythm light with an air freshener exhaust feature!  Keep your car smelling fresh, and add a little pep to your car karaoke sessions for just $20 for the clip on Amazon. These convenient bag holders clip to the back of your car’s head rest to hold all of your belongings off of the floor and upholstery.  Best of all this 2pc set is available for $1.90 on Shein. How about adding a little blast from the past with these retro inspired bucket seat and front seat car seat covers!  They’re a fun, tropical, summery rainbow shade and perfect to keep your seats protected and cool from your road trip adventures. Sold for $50+ on Etsy from NewPeanutDesign. Show your pride to the world with thes e LGBTQ+ Sunshades for your windshield. KEep your car cool while you’re out celebrating at the local parades! Sold on Etsy by CozyOliveStudios. Here’s a happy little rainbow decal from TruePrideDecals on Etsy for just $5.50! Perfect for window clings, bumpers, or even your laptop! This 1970s vintage rainbow air freshener is a fun way to help the environment through thrifting, but also a great way to add a little happiness and cheer to your car’s interior. Sold by AllTomorrosClothing on Etsy! Want to learn more about cars? We love this gift certificate option from Mechanic Femme Shop! This inclusive learning environment is tailor made for women and LGBTQ+ community members to learn automotive related topics in a safe, inclusive environment!

Get your car Road Trip Ready and prepared for driving in the hot summer sun!  We’re sharing our tips for recommended service appointments and check-ups you should make on your vehicle before hitting the road. Long car rides can put a lot of wear and tear and stress on your vehicle, so it is important to have it in tip-top shape before you start driving.  Remember that residual heat from roadways, being parked in hot spots, and generally running your engine for long periods of time can all have an effect on your vehicle’s longevity. more Let’s take a look at how to be best prepared for just about anything so you can drive to your heart's content and arrive safely at your destination for maximum summer fun and low-stress travel. This may seem obvious but first and foremost: Stop ignoring your dashboard lights. Bring your car in for a general tune-up and check-up and get a reading on all those blinking lights you keep trying to ignore.  Don’t wait until your car breaks down or strands you on your summer road trip!  Get things taken care of now, so you can enjoy all of your day-trips and vacations without any added stress. Check and Test your A/C. Don’t wait until the sweltering heat is already in full-force before you test your Air Conditioner.  Make sure the fans and cooling unit are working properly before the summer gets here, and get it tuned-up and repaired if not! Change Oil and filter Each vehicle make/model will differ in mileage requirements for oil changes, but most are between 3,000 and 6,000 miles between an oil change service.  Be sure that you bring your car in at the appropriate mileage markers especially if you’ve been making frequent drives or a long journey.  It will ensure your vehicle runs more efficiently in hot weather, reducing the chance of a seized engine or fuel inefficiency. Clean and/or replace air filter Summer heat means running the AC frequently, and that can lead to a need to replace your air filter in just one or two months as opposed to the usual 3.  Make sure you’re regularly checking the filter and cleaning it as needed, or replacing it earlier if you’ve been doing a lot of driving this summer.  It will ensure that your AC runs properly and can consistently cool your vehicle. Check Tire Air Pressure and Rotate Tires. Replace any tires with worn treads. Check your Spare Tire/Donut and replace if necessary. After several day-trips or even a lengthy drive to your vacation destination, your car tires are going to have seen their fair share of wear-and-tear.  Check the tread depth for signs of wear or uneven tread; replace or patch any damaged tires.  Check the tire pressure before you depart on your next adventure, and especially with any 10 degree temperature change outside. Inflate them to the recommended PSI from the manufacturer’s guidelines. Make sure you bring your car in for a wheel alignment check and have the tires rotated to ensure even wear. Top off Fluids While it’s important to keep your car’s fluids in check on the regular and with each seasonal maintenance, it’s imperative that during the summer months you especially keep an eye on your Coolant and motor oil levels. An increase in summer travel along with high-heat can mean these fluids are depleted quicker than average, and the last thing you want is to be stranded on the highway with a seized engine.  Make sure that you have Antifreeze/Coolant topped off as well as the appropriate oil before you leave on a long trip. Check all of the belts and hoses. Cold and freezing temperatures of wintertime can cause the rubber and plastics to crack or split, thus weakening their ability to move properly. You don’t want to hit the road during the warm weather and find out your vehicle has winter damage!    Pop open the hood and take a look inside and ensure that all of the belts, hoses, and connections are in tip-top shape. Save yourself a lot of money and aggravation by ensuring all belts and hoses are replaced before they cause your vehicle to stall or your engine seizes. Check those spark plugs! The spark plugs aid in combustion of air and fuel.  Although this part is one of the most durable elements of a vehicle, you really should change them every 30,000 to 90,000 miles depending on your vehicle. Check the manufacturer’s website or manual for specific timing requirements.  Defective spark plugs can cause serious engine damage if not maintained properly.  If they cannot generate an adequate spark, your engine will lose power and efficiency, or worse it will cease to run.  If you notice your car is idling rough, you’re having trouble starting your vehicle, or you have an engine misfire, it’s high time to bring your car in for a spark plug change.  Additionally, your car may have difficulty accelerating and maintaining that speed, leading to poor fuel economy.  So, don’t skip this step especially if you’re planning on doing a lot of long distance driving! Detail your vehicle’s interior. We’ve already covered the importance of regular car washing in the spring to clean away road salt and grime, but the interior fabrics need a little TLC as well!  Make sure you get a good shampoo and vacuum on all of your car’s fabric.  If your car has a leather or leather-blend interior, it’s important to condition the fabric so it doesn’t crack or peel during hot weather months.  Get into all the nooks and crannies to clear out the grit, grime, and gravel!  You want to bring back memories of your trip and maybe a little sand, not take a whole season’s worth of muck along for the ride there and back! Is there a topic you wish to see covered in depth on a future service post update? Let us know in the comments on our social media!

The best memories are the road trips with mysterious detours, ample adventure, and loads of surprises, but it’s still a good idea to plan ahead and be prepared for anything!  Today, we’re sharing our tips, tricks, and tools to plan the ultimate road trip!  You’ll be ready to face the unexpected head-on with confidence and reassurance, thanks to these helpful methods.  Discover new places, explore uncharted territories, and jump head first into the unknown on today’s blog. more Plan your road trip including lodging, fuel stations, snacks, and more with help from the RoadTrippers or other route planning apps. When it comes to plotting out our dream road trip, we love the ease and affordability of something as accessible as RoadTrippers. Create a custom road map to all the roadside attractions, national parks, and culinary delights you want with their online and app-based trip planners. Share the route with your friends and family by adding them to your plan, or creating a shared guide.  RoadTrippers allows you to add waypoints and calculate mileage so you can get as accurate budget planning and timelines as possible.  It’s great for planning meet-ups with friends or taking the road less traveled without stress.  Other helpful trip planning and fuel budgeting apps include: WanderLog Travel Planner, Waze, GasBuddy, TripIt. Build a Road Trip Box to keep you safe and sound on the road and prepared for emergencies. Choose a container such as a waterproof duffle bag or a hard-case toolbox and fill it to the brim with these indispensable tools and basics to get you through unexpected breakdowns, wrong turns, and weather issues: Fix-A-Flat Tire Sealant, Portable Air Compressors, Tire Plug and Puncture Kits, a set of Tow Straps, Road Flares and Warning Triangle Reflectors,  a solid First Aid Kit, a Portable/Rechargeable Car Battery Starter, a solar flashlight or handcrank flashlight, a basic screwdriver set, a basic socket wrench set, a set of pliers, a swiss army knife, zip ties, microfiber towels, extra windshield fluid, an extra bottle of motor oil for your vehicle’s make/model, thermal blankets, a gallon of distilled water, non-perishable food, and a set of jumper cables. Looking for some more ideas on how to assemble an easy road trip toolkit and why? We’re sharing this classic article from Jalopnik for more tips and tricks. Taking your furry friends and little pets along for the ride as a navigator? You’ll want to prep your vehicle to be as pet friendly as possible with these safe and helpful items to stow in with your luggage! Pack a pet-friendly emergency and first aid kit. Secure your pet in a travel friendly pet carrier or click them into a pet friendly seatbelt and harness. Download the BringFido and SniffSpot apps to ensure that you’ll always find a dog-friendly accommodation or local area play/exercise spot on the road!  Pack a portable pet bowl and collapsible water bowl or waterbottle for pets, along with plenty of their food and medication in a pet travel bag.  Plan to make frequent stops for potty breaks and activity breaks to ease your pets’ anxiety and keep them comfortable.  Always keep a copy of their important medical papers and records and vaccinations with you in case of emergencies.  Remember to look up leash laws in the area you’re traveling through or to, and keep extra leashes and poopy bags on hand!  Practice short drives and vehicle etiquette with your pet to ease their nerves and make the trip go smoothly. What do you take on your road trips to make the journey easier? Let us know in the comments and share some links to your favorite road trip and car-safety gadgets!

Today is NASCAR Day!  We’re taking a deep dive into the history of the sport, and a look at the lasting legacy of Bill France and his family on not just modern day race cars and motorsports, but also community impact and outreach! more Did you know the first NASCAR Race was held on a beach? Bill France Sr organized the first ever official NASCAR race on the sands of Daytona Beach Florida in 1948,  The 4.1 mile course was marked off with cones and flags, and was the birthplace of the motorsport we all know and love today!  What began on the shorelines and sands has grown into paved tracks, road courses, and dirt tracks with audiences of hundreds of thousands in the stands and world wide. Did you know that NASCAR Drivers Experience up to 6Gs of Force on their Bodies while racing? The high speeds required to complete the race circuit of NASCAR tracks generate an outstanding amount of energy and pressure. Racing at these extreme speeds while making tight turns is an immense strain on the human body.  Acceleration produces forces up to 2Gs, braking forces up to 5Gs, and cornering at 4 to 6Gs!  NASCAR drivers prepare for each race with immense physical conditioning and building up muscle strength in their necks, as well as extreme endurance for heat tolerance. Did you know that NASCAR has origins in Bootlegging and Stock Cars? Check out this amazing video on the Science of Stock Cars from Donut!  They’re starting NASCAR’s roots in stock car racing and their inaugural “stock division race” at the Charlotte Speedway in North Carolina. It’s a fascinating look into the history of racing and motorsports and the engineering behind car mods. And check out this video from the official NASCAR channel detailing seven generations of race cars in the sport.  It’s a real eye-opening exploration! Did you know that NASCAR has a special foundation and special outreach programs? We love supporting others in our community through efforts like the work of COOL Ministries, and we believe it’s incredibly important to lift others up.  So whenever we have an opportunity to highlight charitable giving and community outreach, we jump at the chance!  That’s why today’s blog is all about highlighting fellow automotive industry giants, NASCAR!  Did you know that NASCAR has its own foundation and outreach programs?  We’re going to tell you all about it, and we hope that you’ll consider sending in some support if you’re able! Founded in 2003 to bring the NASCAR community and its employees together in order to support children’s health and wellbeing all across the country!  It’s celebrated on the 3rd Friday in May every year.  Each NASCAR day, all the fans, sponsors and corporate partners, drivers, and celebrity supporters band together to fundraise for charitable children's organizations and the NASCAR Foundation.  It’s also a way for everyone in the racing industry to give back to their community of supporters! In 2006, Betty Jane France, wife of the late Bill France Jr, NASCAR’s former Chairman and CEO, began a long legacy of Humanitarian work by founding The NASCAR Foundation.  In addition, she also established the wonderful “Speediatrics” division of children’s health care units at Halifax Health in Daytona Beach and Homestead Hospital in South Florida.  Following the success of Speediatrics, she then went on to found the Speediatrics Children’s Fund to further efforts of children’s medical care across the entire US.  Last year was the 15th Anniversary of The NASCAR Foundation. Learn more about The NASCAR Foundation:

Considering making a change towards a cleaner,greener and brighter automotive future?  Now is the time!  Kia America is doubling down on purchase and leasing incentives for the brand’s shining star electric vehicle, the EV6! more On May 15th, Kia America made a very special announcement:  The award-winning EV6 is part of Kia America’s new program to incentivize purchase of EVs through a special program from now through July 5th 2023. Well-qualified lessees that lease a new EV6 Wind RWD will receive a $7,500 EV lease bonus.For well-qualified buyers, Kia Finance America is offering up to $3,750 in standard-rate finance bonus cash towards purchase of the new 2023 Kia EV6. The EV6 has three variants: Wind, GT-Line and GT.  The Wind and GT-Line are available in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive options, while the GT is offered only with all-wheel drive.  The EV6 is vcomparible with ultrafast 800v DC Fast Chargers, and can reach 10% to 80% charge state in approximately 18 minutes on a 350kw Charger.  It boasts an EPA-EStimated 310 miles of all-electric range (AER) on the GT-Line and Wind Line.  The EV6 also offers a wide variety of advanced driver assistance programs for increased connectivity and convenience. The EV6 made significant waves in the market after its launch last year, and pushed forward Kia’s Plan S strategy towards becoming a leader in sustainable mobility.  The Kia EV6 has gone on to receive incredible industry praise including a spot on Car and DRivers’s 2023 10 Best List and winning the 2023 North American Utility of the Year award.  Additionally, the 576HP 2023 Kia EV6 GT was recognized as World Performance Car of the Year. Stop by Classic Kia of Waukegan to learn more about Kia’s incredible line of hybrid and electric vehicles, and find out why the EV6 is right for you! We’ll be happy to go over all of the incredible features, energy efficient electric driving range, gorgeous trim and style options, and plentiful feature options and packages.  We’ll get you behind the wheel of the forward-thinking advanced vehicle of your dreams and on to the road full of adventure in no time. Fast Stats on the Kia EV6: Most powerful Kia production vehicle ever: 576-HP all-electric Kia EV6 GT accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 161 mph1 Engineered to compete with supercars: AMCI-certified winner of 0-60 mph race against Ferrari Roma and Lamborghini Huracan Evo Optimized for performance: 77.4 kWh battery with a 160kW front motor and a 270kW rear motor, “Drift Mode” to unlock increased capacity and performance, larger diameter disc brakes (15” front / 14.2” rear) with quad-piston front calipers, stiffened chassis, quicker ratio steering, electronically controlled suspension, and Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (e-LSD) GT exterior design flourishes: Unique front and rear fasciae, neon accents, and 21-inch wheels set EV6 GT apart Driver-focused cabin enhancements: Unique, racing-inspired sport bucket seats and neon green dash accents 20 standard active Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Engineered for peak charging: World-first 800V multi-charging architecture enables ultra-fast DC charging to recharge 10 to 80 percent state-of-charge in under 18 minutes

With several years of lockdowns and pandemic-related travel restrictions under our belts, most of us are itching to get out and make up for “lost time” with adventures and explorations like no other.  We’re ready to make new core memories and vacation experiences to last us a lifetime of looking back fondly!  Today, we’re sharing our picks for some seriously magical midwest destinations for stunning summer vacations you’ll talk about with loved ones for years to come.  See for yourself what wonders await you in the Midwest of these great United States. Let’s hit the road to summer fun and boundless adventures! more Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan This picture-perfect vacation destination has a plethora of activities and excitement no matter what your interests. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy traditional summer fun on the gorgeous sunny beaches and sky-high dunes, or they can delve into the wilds of the emerald green forests and sparkling inland lakes.  History buffs will love taking a look at local cultural and historical sites such as a lighthouse from 1871, historic Coast Guard Stations, and an incredible historic farm district and maritime village.  The area is home to the largest freshwater sand dunes in the world, and features a magnificent “ghost forest”, an area of trees that have been covered and uncovered by shifting sands of time.  Nature photographers will have a blast thanks to the sand dunes and their sweeping views across the lake, and searching out many species of birds and wildlife abound.  From hiking and biking to swimming and camping, there’s no shortage of fun at this spectacular destination. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin With miles and miles of windswept beaches, astoundingly impressive natural-carved rock formations, intricate sea caves, majestic marine wildlife, and breathtaking scenery, you’ll not soon forget your visit to Apostle Islands.  Whether you opt for a grand guided tour of the local lighthouses, a detailed narration of local history, and cruise, or you prefer to explore by bike or by foot on the many trails, there’s no shortage of natural wonder to enjoy.  Outdoorsy folks will enjoy the overnight camping sites and plentiful hiking trails!  There’s also plenty of kayaking, swimming, fishing, and other nature activities like quarry and cave exploration. You’re going to love it here. The Niobrara National Scenic River and Smith Falls State Park in Nebraska With 76-miles of river to explore, this nationally designated scenic river is a must-see vacation stop!  From canoeing and kayaking to tubing and swimming, there are so many ways to lose yourself in outdoor adventure and excitement.  Smith Falls State Park is home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, as well as miles and miles of scenic wooded trails bustling with wildlife and bursting with gorgeous plants and flowers.  Visitors of all ages will enjoy plenty of fun in the sun and have plenty of opportunities to snap the photograph of a lifetime! Red River Gorge in Kentucky The ultimate road trip destination boasts plenty of outstanding natural attractions from Daniel Boone National Forest to the Gorge Underground t o rock climbing, hiking, zip lining, and so much more.  Snag a scenic cabin in the woods to create lasting memories and one-of-a-kind experiences that your family will never forget.  Red River Gorge has world class entertainment thanks to Mother Nature’s abundant gifts, with guided activity tours, underground kayaking, mountain biking, wilderness hikes, and gorgeous geological formations and wildlife.  Take in the fresh mountain air, dip your toes into the rushing waters, and climb up to the treetops to get in touch with nature like never before. Other incredible and interesting places to explore include: The Keweenaw Peninsula in Michigan Isle Royale National Park in Lake Superior Michigan Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Put-In-Bay Ohio Cypress Illinois and the Cache River Wetlands The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Ely Minnesota

Looking for some day trip activities and short getaways? Check out these local festivals happening at the end of this month and Memorial Day Weekend: Memorial Day in Milwaukee Mercado on 5th in East Moline The DuPage Arts Festival The Sueños Music Festival In Chicago The Festa Italiana in Herrin Prairie Arts Festival in Schaumburg Yorkville Bluegrass Music Festival in Yorkville Collinsville Memorial Day Fireworks Festival in Collinsville Want to book a resort or longer stay? Look no further than these great options in Illinois and Wisconsin: more FOX RIVER RESORT in Aurora, IL For an all-in-one vacation stop, you can’t beat Fox River Resort!  This family friendly retreat offers an incredible array of activities to delight all travelers from young to old.  Kids will go wild for the Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park, while adults will enjoy the indoor or outdoor pool for laps or relaxation, or perhaps book a rental to enjoy watersports activities such as rowing, pedal boats and more along the river.  There’s an on-site 9-hole golf course for those who prefer to “putter” around.  And adventure seekers will be delighted to learn it is just a 30 minute drive away from the gorgeous natural Starved Rock State Park; this gorgeous park is perfect for hiking, fishing, mountain biking, nature photography, and so much more!  And of course, it’s just 90 minutes from the bright city lights of Chicago, if you’d like to make a day of it and go sightseeing or explore the many cultural and culinary delights of the metropolitan area. THE HOTEL INDIGO NAPERVILLE RIVERWALK in Naperville, IL This gorgeous hotel is right in the heart of all the fun and culture of Naperville!  Families will enjoy an on-site fitness center and luxury amenities where they can rest and recharge after a busy day exploring the local activities.  The Riverwalk is just a stone's throw away, so you and your family can explore and enjoy nearly 2 miles of gorgeous brick paths, bridges, outdoor sculptures and public art installations, special events, memorials, and family-friendly activities!  There’s so much to see that you can make a whole day of the Riverwalk experience.  There’s also the Millennium Carillon and Moser Tower Visitor Center; this historic structure is in the top 4 tallest structures in the US, and offers guided tours so you can learn more about its commemoration.  The DuPage Children’s museum is great for families who have kids that love to explore and get hands-on with their fun and learning.  The Naper Settlement is a history buff’s dream, where you can enjoy historic architecture and learn about Naperville’s past.  If you’re looking for swimming and sandy beaches, you’ll love Centennial Beach, with plenty of aquatic activities perfect for families.  Naperville is packed to the brim with nature, culture, and delicious eateries! LAKEWOODS RESORT in Cable, WI Explore the incredible 3400 scenic acres of Lake Namakagon in Wisconsin’s Northwoods.  Whether you’re looking for a cozy room with the rustic lodge experience, or you prefer something more private like a lakeview luxury apartment, there’s something for everyone at Lakewoods Resort.  The surrounding area of Chequamegon National Forest is perfect for hiking, nature photography, and mountain biking.  The nearby shores of the Lake are perfect for swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, and then some.  Plus, there’s a beautiful 18-hole golf course to challenge both amateur and professional players. OSTHOFF RESORT in Elkhart Lake, WI Get off the hamster wheel and exit the rat race of life for a few days at the magnificent Osthoff Resort.  A classic luxury getaway for families in Chicago, St. Louis, and Milwaukee, this resort is full of entertainment, modern amenities, and plenty of upscale dining along the shimmering waters of Elkhart Lake.  You’ll find an on-site spa with whirlpool baths, a meditation sanctuary, massages, facials, and other full-body treatments.  Enjoy the sunshine with incredible outdoor activities such as tennis, volleyball, indoor and outdoor pools, a miniature golf course, and even a paintball court!  If you prefer a quieter stay, you can enjoy sunning on the sandy shores of the lake, paddle boating, or even sailing. PITLIK’S BEACH RESORT in Eagle River, WI Should you find yourself nostalgic for days gone by, and wanting to rekindle the magic of childhood memories spent romping in the woods and exploring the wilds of nature, this is the resort for you.  The nearby shores of Sand Lake are perfect for fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking.  The forests are full of local flora and fauna, just perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and even horseback riding.  You and your family can enjoy a low-tech lifestyle with cozy and rustic living in Pitlik’s picturesque cabins along the lake.  Enjoy breakfast and lunch in the fresh woodland air or on a beautiful screened in porch, then head over to the main Lodge for a family dinner at Rena’s place, and enjoy a nightcap or cocktail at Joe’s Taproom.