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Today is Read Across America day, and we’re really excited.  You can certainly believe us when we say we love reading (we love it almost as much as we love cars, which is a lot!)  Read Across America Day is about dedicating ourselves to promoting literacy, critical thinking, and inspiring a whole new generation of readers and leaders of tomorrow.   Let’s inspire these young minds especially to pursue new adventures and think outside the box!  So make sure you take some time today to read a few pages in your favourite book, send a book to your loved ones, or buy one for a special kiddo in your life. more Not only is it Read Across America Day, but it’s also Women’s HIstory month.  That’s why today we’re sharing our picks for great books about and by notable women.  You’ll find bestsellers and classics along with brand new publications.  All of them are available in ebook form for ease of reading while traveling, and many of them have an audiobook with narration for long trips or commutes. Reading Recommendations How Women Rise by Sally Helgesen A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Plowell A Life at Full Throttle by Janet Guthrie Lone Rider: the First British Woman to Motorcycle Around the World by Elspeth Beard Driven: A Pioneer for Women in Motorsport by Rosemary Smith Faster: How a Jewish Driver, An American Heiress, and a Legendary Car Beat Hitler’s Best by Neal Bascomb The Red Car by Marcy Dermansky How to Overcome Fear of Driving by Joanne Mallon The Woman and the Car by Dorothy Levitt How to Diagnose and Repair Automotive Electrical Systems by Tracy Martin Women at the Wheel by Katherine Parkin Lovin’ My Car: Women in the Driver’s Seat by Libby Edelman Where the crawdads sing by Delia Owens The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip Williams I Give My Marriage A Year by Holly Wainwright Reckless Girls by Rachel Hawkins The Girl in the Lake by India Hill Brown Mestiza Blood by V. Castro The Keeper Guadalupe Garcia McCall Dead Silence by S.A. Barnes A Woman Built by Man Edited by S.H. Cooper and Elle Turpitt Sundial by Catriona Ward The Godmothers by Monica McInerney Flying the Nest by Rachael Johns

Laissez le bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll! Today is Mardi Gras, also known as “Fat Tuesday,” is a holiday of feasting prior to the Lenten Season of Christianity.  It is a joyful, hearty holiday that also dates back to roots in pagan springtime ritual and fertility rites.  It’s celebrated with eating rich foods, fatty sumptuous treats, imbibing in cheerful cocktails and toasts, and of course the classic Mardis Gras parade featuring floats, confetti, and beads!  In short, it’s a really good time for all. more Today we’re celebrating some great cajun restaurants in the area and fun recipes you can make with your family to celebrate.  Check it out on today’s blog! How far is New Orleans Louisiana from Classic Auto Group? It’s at least 5 states and 1,000 miles from here, but you don’t have to drive that far for original cajun flavors!  Let us point you in the direction of classic cajun eateries in the area. Local Restaurants with Cajun Cuisine and Cajun Items Cajun Grill in Gurnee The Boil Cajun Seafood in Chicago Ragin’ Cajun Gumbo in Chicago Crab King Cajun Boil & Bar in Chicago Joker’s Cajun Kitchen in Chicago Spicy Fingers Seafood Kitchen in Chicago Rajun Cajun in Chicago Storyville Chicago The Crab Pad in Chicago Savor 27 Cajun Seafood & Tacos in Chicago The Cajun Connoisseur Food Truck & Catering in Chicago JJ Fish & Chicken in Waukegan Honey Bays BBQ in Waukegan Juan’s Chuck Wagon Restaurant in Waukegan Jerk N’ More in Waukegan Island Del Mar in Waukegan Ostioneria Briza Azul in Waukegan Make Your Own Cajun Feast No Mardi Gras Celebration is complete without a smorgasbord of delectable treats.  We’ve got everything from soup to nuts, or well, gumbo to pralines that is.  Got a fave recipe of your own? Share it with us in a comment! Traditional New Orleans King Cake Vegan Cajun Boil Mardi Gras Pasta Sazerac Cocktail Recipe New Orleans Ramos Gin Fizz Recipe New Orleans Style Beignets Shrimp Etouffe Instant Pot Jambalaya Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya Muffaletta Sandwich Classic Pecan Pralines Authentic New Orleans Gumbo NYT Vegan Gumbo Recipe

After more than 2 years of pandemic chaos, many of us are champing at the bit to take to the skies and touch down on new ground, or to drive the roads less traveled. Spring break is just around the corner, so why not take advantage of the upcoming free time and create a  plan for your first vacation of 2022!  We’re here to help you get ready by recommending lots of great reading material. more Why not spend some of your time off learning, exploring, and expanding your mind by getting lost in a good book?  You can enjoy all of the titles on our list while visiting anywhere in the world thanks to digital copies.  Load them onto your tablet, phone, or queue them up on your vehicle’s infotainment center.  There’s no wrong way to read a book! Whether you’re going out into the world and exploring places by planes, trains, or automobiles, or if you’re enjoying the quiet solitude of a “Staycation” at home, these books are sure to delight readers of all kinds.  Transport yourself to a new place and time with one of the books on our list!  We’ve got Fantasy, Fiction, and History books by Black Authors which highlight Black History, Black Culture, and Black narratives.  They’re all available in EBook and/or Audiobooks, which makes them great options for on the go entertainment without weighing down your luggage! “Behind the Mountains” by Edwidge Danticat is a coming-of-age themed novel about a young woman who leaves the island life of Haiti behind, and moves to the hustle and bustle of metropolitan life in Brooklyn, New York.  It’s relevant and timely for today’s world, and features beautiful descriptions of Haiti that will transport you to another place. “The Star Side of Bird Hill” by Naomi Jackson is another story exploring the strong ties of immigrant families to the rich, beautiful culture and communities of their island heritage.  It’s a complicated and emotionally engrossing tale of love, loss, community connection, and family. “Ghana Must Go” by Taiye Selasi is another beautiful novel about finding home and a family wherever you are, and making your way in the world on your own.  After the death of their father, the Sai siblings must come together to navigate family tension, the transformative power of loss, reclaiming your identity, and the importance of where we all come from. “Traveling While Black” by Mia Bay is a fascinating look into the history and modern dilemma of travel, public transportation, when it comes to segregation and racism.  It provides the reader with an accessible yet scholarly look into social justice and racial equality issues of the modern world. “Driving While Black” by W.W. Norton explores similar themes to the aforementioned title, this too is an extensive and complex dive into the history of African American Travel and the Road to Civil Rights. “”Hola Morocha! A Black Woman’s Adventures in Buenos Aires: Culture Shock” by Jennifer Poe is a short, but energetic travel memoir about self-empowerment and independence.  It chronicles her solo travel as a black American woman, while also exploring the culture and history of the Black Community in Buenos Aires, Argentina. “ Kinky Gazpacho” by Lori Tharps is a travel memoir about navigating her West African heritage with the reality of being a Black Woman in Spain.  It delves into personal experiences and self-reflections on racial perspectives, explores passion in all its incarnations, and tackles loneliness and independence and love. “ The Marvelous Equations of the Dread: A Novel in Bass Riddim” by Marcia Douglas is a one-of-a-kind reading experience!  This novel-length poem is part musical and part mythical narrative.  It centers around the spirit of Bob Marley being reincarnated as a homeless man living in Kingston, Jamaica.  The audiobook provides additional authenticity and atmosphere with a Patois accented reading. “ Queen of the Conquered” by Kacen Callender is an adult fantasy novel that will inspire your childlike wonder and sense of adventure.  It deftly handles its heavy content by combining elements of magic, mystery, and fantasy blended with the realism of island history and culture.

The winter up North here in Illinois and Wisconsin can certainly be brutally cold and snowy!  For those of us who enjoy the brisk, blustery wintry weather and outdoor activities it can be blissful and exhilarating. However, for the person who prefers something more low key, it can cause a bit of cabin fever.  That’s why today’s blog is dedicated to the folks who want to get out of the house, stay out of the weather, but still find some fun and excitement!  We’re rounding up some great ideas and options for indoor destinations and non-winter sport indoor/outdoor activities in the Greater Chicago area.  Let’s get out there and add a little color to our lives and paint the town red! more Be sure to check local guidelines for COVID19 restrictions such as vaccination cards and mask mandates.  We also encourage our readers to abide by all establishment’s individual guidelines for masking and social distancing for your safety and that of others. Family Friendly Activities We’ve scoured the internet and pulled from local suggestions for some of the best Chicago area destinations that are great for families.  Whether you’re going on a family outing or you’re taking the kids on a playdate, there’s lots of fun in store at these destinations.  From indoor playgrounds to museums to zoos, you’ll have plenty of entertainment for all age groups. Fit City Kids Exploritorium ClimbZone Chicago Lincoln Park Conservatory The Escape Game Chicago iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Lincoln Park Sod Room Indoor Playground Chicago LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago Present Place Chicago Indoor Playground Shedd Aquarium at Museum Campus Chicago Children’s Museum Navy Pier Amusement Center Chicago Purple Monkey Playroom Amusement Center Altitude Trampoline Park in Chicago Museum of Science and Industry Chicago Fox in a Box Escape Room Chicago Bronzeville Children’s Museum Indigo and Violet Art Studio Children’s Museum of Art and Social Justice Kidcreate Studio Lakeview Chicago Wonder Works Children’s Museum Family Friendly Eateries After a fun-filled day of exploring the city and running around in museums or playgrounds, you’re going to be faced with plenty of hungry bellies!  Beat the hangry tantrums by planning ahead and reserving a table for your brood at one of these family friendly restaurants. We’ve done our best to pick kid friendly favourites, but also give you choices with a great atmosphere and lots of options for teens and adults, too. R.J. Grunts BIG & little’s Restaurant Crosby’s Kitchen SafeHouse Chicago Little Goat Diner JoJo’s Shake Bar Eleven City Diner Summer House Santa Monica Eggy’s Diner Lou Mitchell’s Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe Happy Camper Pizzeria Pinstripes Restaurant Funkenhausen Harvey’s Family Restaurant Big Kids Sandwiches Sunshine Restaurant Inc Friends Night Out and Date Night Ideas for Adults in Chicago You’ve had your fun with the kids and some serious quality time as a family, but now it’s time for you to kick back, let loose, and relax for a night on the town!  Get a little grownup time at these fun destinations that are perfect for couples, groups of friends, or even a nice night out alone.  You’ll find plenty of active choices such as skydiving and axe throwing, to walking tours and tours of brewpubs.  We’ve got a little bit of everything and a whole lot of creativity in our suggested destinations! WhirlyBall Chicago Bad Axe Throwing iFly Indoor Skydiving Broadway Playhouse Lucky Strike Downtown Chicago Chicago Magic Lounge City Winery Chicago Thomas McCormick Gallery Hofheimer Gallery WNDR Museum Gallery 400 FLXST Contemporary Kavi Gupta Gallery The Logan Theatre David Theater Chicago The Brew & View Nightingale Cinema The New 400 Theater Studio Movie Grill Ignite Gaming Chicago Redline VR Chicago FTW Chicago Play and Spin Museica’s Sip & Paint Deja Hue Art Wet Paint Chicago Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tours Restaurants & Bars for a Great Night Out On the Town Who says adults can’t enjoy theme restaurants?!  We’ve gathered our picks for bars and restaurants with playful themes, interactive experiences, breweries, and farm-to-table options.  You’ll find no shortage of enjoyment and unforgettable experiences shared over cocktails and award winning plates of food.  We know you’ll have a blast! Replay Lincoln Park Elf’d Up Grill The Little Mermaid Cocktail Experience Chicago Map Room Bar Three Dots and a Dash Weegee’s Lounge Brando’s Speakeasy Janitor's Closet Neon Wilderness SafeHouse Chicago The Violet Hour Cocktail Bar Bunny Slope The Drifter Moneygun Range New American Blue Door Farm Stand Lula Cafe Table, Donkey and Stick Lagunitas Brewing Company Chicago Goose Island Brewhouse

It’s National Love Your Pet Day!  It’s no secret we love our little creature companions be they furred, finned, feathered, or whatever, they’re all so special to us.  Over the last few years with pandemic related challenges, we’ve fallen in love with them more than ever.  Our trusty critter counterparts have given us so much companionship and unconditional love, and now it’s our turn to give back.  Check out today’s post for a super fun celebration of our non-human buddies! more Looking for Love: Great Local Animal Rescues to Find Your New BFF We understand that some folks choose to buy their sweet companions from breeders or championship bloodlines, and we get it!  But if you’re looking for a ride-or-die, for a tried-and-true blue best pal, you’ll never find a friend so kind with boundless love than animals rescued from a shelter or the street.  Here’s some great places to start looking for your new best friend! Waukegan Police Animal Control in Waukegan Our House of Hope Rescue in Libertyville Fat Cat Rescue in Waukegan Strawberry Fields Animal Rescue Illinois Wagging Hearts in Gainesville Kay’s Animal Shelter in Arlington Heights Animal House Shelter in Huntley Anderson Humane-North Aurora Adoption Center in North Aurora Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter in Deerfield Save-A-Pet in Grayslake PAWS Humane Society in Rockford Helping Paws Animal Shelter in Woodstock Heartland Animal Shelter in Wheeling Will County Humane Society in Shorewood Anderson Humane in South Elgin Tails Humane Society in DeKalb Community Care Animal Rescue Effort in Skokie Citizens Animal Rescue and Adoption in Tilton Wright-Way Rescue in Morton Grove Wags 2 Wishes Animal Rescue in Plainfield Fur Keeps Animal Rescue in Barrington Starfish Animal Rescue in Batavia Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary Inc in Rockford Young At Heart Senior Pet Adoptions in Woodstock Safe Harbor Humane Society in Kenosha WI Kindred Kitties in Kenosha WI Furever Friends Sanctuary in Kenosha WI Society of St Francis Inc in Kenosha, WI Tiny Paws Small Dog Rescue Inc in Kenosha, WI Who doesn’t love getting pampered with a little extra TLC! Well, did you know that our little four-legged, fine feathered, and even finned buddies feel just the same?  Show your pals a little extra treat, a new bed or hidey-hole, or even a day out at the spa.  We’ve got a list of places to spoil your pets: Alfredo Dog Grooming in Waukegan is where you go for a personal touch. Shear Paradise Pet Salon & Spa has been in pet beauty for over a dozen years. Grand Grooming in Gurnee is top rated as one of the best groomers in town. Liberty Dog Spa is a top tier pet groomer in Libertyville with years of experience. All Tails Pet Grooming & Boutique in Zion has been operating for over 10 years. Paw Chi Spa is the perfect mobile spa choice for pet parents with a busy schedule. Calling All Paws Mobile Pet Grooming is a convenient mobile grooming service for all. Posh Paws of Lake Bluff is a professional and trustworthy groomer for more than just dogs and cats. Bark N Call Pet Shop & Grooming has a reputation for friendly professional grooming. Peace, Paws, & Harmony in Lindenhurst grooms instills your pet with a sense of calm and patience during their spa day. 5 Star Doggie Bags: Cooking Special Meals for Your Pets At Home! Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Treats from Damn Delicious Homemade Dog Treat Recipe from The Cookie Rookie Three-Ingredient Salmon Cat Treats from The Cookie Rookie Canine Journal’s Homemade Vet Approved Dog Food Recipes Delicious Bearded Dragon Homemade Food Recipes Homemade Bunny Rabbit Treats by Sandi Homemade Cat Food Recipes via Hepper

Today we’re celebrating Black Excellence in the professional automotive racing circuit.  From the past to the present, these drivers are paving the way for future generations of drivers.  We’re pleased to highlight the men and women who have worked hard and proven themselves to be incredible drivers and stars of the industry. more Bubba Wallace William Darrell “Bubba” Wallace Jr is a 28 year old professional stock car driver who made his Cup Series Debut in 2017.  He is the first full-time racer fo color in the NASCAR Cup Series since the early 1970s.  In 2021, he became the second Black Driver to win the NASCAR Cup Series at Talladega Superspeedway. (Image from Forbes.) Rajo Jack American racecar driver Dewey Gatson also known as Jack DeSoto and Rajo Jack was one of the first African American race car drivers in America.  He was inducted into the West Coast Stock Car Hall of Fame in 2003, commemorating his notable wins in 1920s racing history. ( Image from Pamplin Media Group.) Cheryl Linn Glass Cheryl Linn Glass was the first ever African American woman professional race-car driver in the US!  She became a professional driver at age 18, and continued her storied career through 1991.  When she wasn’t racing, Glass also ran a successful fashion business, “Cheryl Glass Designs” where she designed bridal and evening gowns for special occasions.  In addition, she also ran a full catering and event planning service and co-founded the Minority Engineering Retention Program at University of Washington. (Image credit The Seattle Times) Wendell Scott Wendell Oliver Scott was one of the earliest African American drivers in NASCAR racing, and the first African-American to win a race in the NASCAR Cup Series in 1964 (and the only one until Bubba Wallace’s recent win.)  He was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1999 and in 2015 he became the first African American driver to be inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. (Image via BBC.) Jesse Iwuji Jesse Ekene Iwuji is a full-time NASCAR stock car racing driver.  He is the first active duty officer in the US Navy Reserves to compete in NASCAR.  He is partnering with Emmitt Smith of NFL fame for an Xfinity Series Racing team in 2022. (Image from VFW.) Elias Bowie Elias Abraham Bowie Jr was the first Black person to start in a race in the top level series of NASCAR at the Grand National Race in July of 1955.  It was his first and only NASCAR Cup appearance, during which he placed 28th of 34 cars on a 1-mile dirt track in San Mateo. (Image from African American Racers Association) Randy Bethea In 1973, Randy Bethea knocked driver Darrell Waltrip out of pole position at the Nashville Fairgrounds.  In 1975, he was the fourth African-American driver to start a race for NASCAR.  He also qualified 39th out of 40 in the World 600, and he finished 33rd. He raced two seasons in 1991’s NASCAR Slim Jim All Pro Touring Series. (Image from Timesnews.net) Tia Norfleet Shauntia Latrice “Tia” Norfleet is the daughter of NASCAR driver Bobby Norfleet, and the first and only African American Woman driver to hold a NASCAR license.  In addition, she is the first Black Woman to be licensed by the Automobile Racing Club of America.  She made her debut in August of 2012 at the Motor Mile Speedway in Virginia. (image from thesource.com) More notable names in racing history: Willy T. Ribbs the first African American driver to qualify for the Indy 500. Bill Lester, the first African American to race in NASCAR’S Busch Series. Lewis Hamilton, seven time world champion F1 race driver for Mercedes. Antron Brown, first Black American Champion in drag racing. Morty Buckles, the first driver for NASCAR’s Drive for Diversity class.

It’s February; love is in the air, and those happy, positive vibes are everywhere.  We love living and working in Waukegan.  We love selling and driving cars.  And we certainly love all of our loyal customers!  In honor of these big feelings, we’re sharing the love with some great suggestions for DIY Valentine crafts.  It doesn’t matter whether you’re a child or a teen or an adult, we know you’ll have a blast making these items to share with all the folks you care about. more So, folks, start your engines and let’s get creative!  Here’s our picks for fabulous Valentine Crafts that everyone will love (especially your friendly neighbourhood car dealership employees!) Creative and Crafty Valentines for Car Lovers of All Ages Get creative with the Paper Plate Love Bug Car Craft and make some construction and tissue paper  valentine’s with your Pre-K and Kindergarten kiddos. If you’re in a hurry, try these Matchbox Car Printable Valentine’s with four options. These DIY Race Car Valentines are a simple, sweet option and all you need are some tiny toy cars you buy in bulk at the dollar store or on amazon! We simply love the open-ended creativity of these beautiful Process Art Valentines: Painting with Cars for Toddlers. Grandparents and relatives will love getting one of these Footprint Race Car Valentine for Little Ones. Here’s another great set of pr intable Car Valentines to Color and Inscribe! Create a papercutting and sticker filled collage with the Heart Car Valentine's Craft for Kids. We love these cheerful Wheely Good Friend Valentines printables! Your kiddos friends and classmates will really adore these Race Car Valentine’s! Support an independent artist and get valentines in a flash with these d ownload and Print Race Car Valentines via Etsy. You can’t beat convenience when it comes to last minute options like these Instant Download Car Theme Printable Valentine Cards! Your fellow caregivers and parents will appreciate it if you forgo the candy laden valentine and swap it for these DIY Hot Wheels Non-Candy Valentines for Kids And if the adults or teens want to get in the mix, try this list of 55 More Valentine’s Gifts for the DIYer! Or you can just keep it plain and simple by coloring or painting these Love and Valentine Themed Best Coloring Pages for Kids, too!

Calling all Road Warriors!  If two years and change of travel restrictions, self-isolations, and quarantine periods have you itching to see the world, we understand.  Skip the skyways and hit the road in your new car from Classic Auto Group for more pandemic-friendly traveling.  Whether you’re using your car for day-trips, weekend getaways, or lengthy road trips, it’s always good to be prepared.  We’re giving our readers a boost with our road trip guides such as this post all about travel gadgets! more Rand McNally 2022 Road Atlas In 2022, we’ve grown comfortable that our technology will always have reception, but the further you adventure across our great nation, you’ll find some of the most beautiful areas are the most remote!   What do you do when your reception drops from 5G to 1 bar of LTE coverage?  Travel with confidence knowing you’re ready to navigate safely, even if your smart tech won’t cooperate!  We love the Rand McNally Road Atlas as a perfect pocket sized navigator.  (Plus, this one won’t be a “backseat driver”…unlike your bestie who always has an opinion.) Dungarees Carhartt Car Organizers When it comes to trusted names in durability and safety, you just can’t beat the Carhartt brand! These rugged back of seat organizers can handle all the dirt, muck and grime of your outdoor adventures…or even the ever-present stickiness of toddlers and little ones.  You’ll find plenty of convenient pockets, nooks, and crannies to store your electronics and utensils as well as toiletries. Carhatt Universal Bench Seat Cover For those who love to go offroading, living that “van life” down by the river, or even picking up the kids from a weekend at camp or soccer clinic, the Carhartt bench covers are a great option.  These are easy to install, easy to clean, and made from the same trusted materials you know and love from the Carhartt brand.  It’s the perfect choice to protect your new car’s upholstery from repeated cleanings or damage. SmartPhone Mount from iOittie Keep in touch with your loved ones while you’re on the move!  This convenient car phone mount fits most smartphone models and keeps your device ready at your fingertips.  From handsfree mobile calling to traffic alerts and GPS updates, you’ll have everything you need while you’re on the road. Rooftop Cargo Storage Modern vehicles usually have quite ample trunk space and plenty of under-seat and side pocket storage, but extra cargo space is a must for those of us who are traveling for the long haul.  Store just about anything you need for your trip without blocking your essential vision spots with an overstuffed car.  This convenient and expansive cargo storage attaches to your roof and comes with a combination lock for security.  It’s a great option for car-camping and off-roading! Aquapel Glass Treatment Water Repellent We’re big fans of windshield treatments that make it easier to see while driving in inclement weather. For a budget friendly option, we use RainX line of products.  But for those of us who prefer a longer-term solution without multiple reapplications, the Aquapel Glass Treatment provides up to 6mos of water repellent application.  Just swipe, apply, and go!  You’ll have excellent preventive maintenance for long cross-country or coastal trips without having to worry.  We feel it’s money well invested! Besign BK01 Bluetooth Car Kit Did you opt for a basics package with your new vehicle for a more budget friendly pricetag? We understand!  But in today’s day and age, it’s always a great idea to ensure that you can safely navigate and communicate while on the road.  That’s why we’re recomending this Bluetooth Car Kit to connect with your smart phones and tablets for hands-free communication and navigation.  The price is perfect for the budget savvy traveler! High Road Heavy-Duty Expandable Clothes Hanger A life of adventure on the road doesn’t mean you won’t want to stop for a fancy event or outing!  Have a nice night on the town with wrinkle-free duds thanks to this expandable clothes hanger.  Avoid wasting precious time ironing and de-wrinkling your wardrobe and hang it while you travel instead.  It’s sturdy, durable, and holds plenty of outfit options no matter where you’re headed. BioLite Camp Stove Every off-road traveler should consider grabbing one of these handy devices. The BioLite camping stove can be used in emergencies during wintertime to provide heat until safety arrives, or it can be used to boil water in remote locations to keep you hydrated.  As an added bonus, it’s great for campsite cooking and marshmallow roasting.  Conveniently designed for easy travel and small footprint in your storage capacity. Car emergency Toll with Digital Tire Gauge This handy multitool is a favourite with our readers and staff.  We love the easy-to-read tire gauge and collapsible/expandable pocket tool options.  Fits neatly into your glove compartment, center console, or even door side pocket.  Don’t leave home without it! Stoic Double Cloud Camp Bed Long road trips can be expensive as it is, and opting for a comfortable hotel can get costly!  Save your dime for adventuring and use your car’s cargo area to rest on this travel mattress. Or pop up your weatherproof tent  with the cloud camp bed for a comfortable night’s sleep in the wilderness.  It’s easy to set up and easy to clean, too! YETI Hopper Flip 8 Cooler Rugged. Durable. Spacious. Efficient.  These are all great reasons why we love the Flip 8 Cooler from YETI.  Keep your food warm in the winter and cool in the summer.  Never worry about being dehydrated on your camping trips, either!  It fits plenty of water bottles, beverage cans, and food containers.  Plus, the adjustable strap is tough enough to lug just about anywhere and can be removed for hand-held carrying if preferred.

We’re very excited to share today’s blog post with you.  In honor of Black History month, we’re sharing an incredible list of local galleries, performance venues, museums and cultural centers featuring Black Creators, Black Musicians, and notable public figures in Black American History.  In addition, many of them are also Black Owned Businesses, which is a great way to directly support our local community! more Including modern Black artists is imperative for a well rounded vision of society and America.  We’re supporting the arts and Black Creators by sharing this fabulous list of venues to explore.  Historically, many Black artists and creators have been left out of larger museum and gallery collections, and history vignettes have been relegated only to overseas artifacts or tribal customs.  Today, curators and art historians are making concerted efforts to be more inclusive in current collections and exhibitions.  Check out our picks below, and let us know which is your favourite place to visit! Before you head to these great American cultural centers, we also recommend you view the 90 minute documentary “Black Art: In the Absence of Light” via HBO. This enlightening documentary highlights many notable Black artists and gallerists as well as art historians, and we believe listening to their perspectives and learning these names will enrich your visits to these institutions.  You can even download the supplemental materials, or try your hand at the suggested art projects that correlate!  It’s a great way to get up close and personal with the arts before your excursions. Creative Destinations Celebrating Black Culture & Black History in Greater Chicago Area African American Museum in Lake County Mariane Ibrahim Gallery Chicago Illinois South Side Community Art Center in Chicago IL Gallery Guichard in Chicago, IL ILA Gallery Chicago Connect Gallery Chicago Anthony Gallery Chicago 5 Points Art Gallery & Studios in Milwaukee South Shore Gallery and Estate Sales and Boutique Art Studio 928, LLC Jaguare Studios BFTA Dessin Mogul, LLC Little Black Pearl ETA Creative Arts Foundation Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago Joel Hall Dance Center Buddy Guy’s Legends DuSable Museum of African American HIstory Black Chicago Museum Bronzeville Children’s Museum Ida B Wells Barnett House Pearl’s Place African-American Cultural Center Monument to the Great Northern Migration The Green Mill Chicago Let us know in a comment if you have a great recommendation for a creative Black Owned Business or Art Gallery or even a museum we’ve left off this list!  We’d love to support our local community by highlighting them in a future update.

Hey there friends and neighbours, we’re here with our beloved community calendar for the Chicago area!  You’ll find a lot of great activities and events to enjoy over the next few weeks, all just a short drive away.  Check it out on today’s blog. more Today from 12PM to 2PM at the College of Lake County, enjoy a lecture with a panel of guests for CLC Lake County’s History Makers: State of the Black Male: Changing the Narrative event over Zoom. This evening from 6:30PM to 9PM at Zumbier, enjoy LIVE Trivia! BYO Food or order delivery in. Tomorrow, February 4th, at Tony’s Fresh Market from 2PM to 6PM in Waukegan is the Job Fair! Learn more about it here. On February 4th at the Genesee Theatre, enjoy a wild, wacky, madcap evening of musical comedy for Guys on Ice starting from 7PM through 9PM. Check it out here. On February 5th from 12PM to 2PM at the Dandelion Gallery & Studio, bring a friend or your kiddo and enjoy a Love inspired evening of Block Art. Learn more at Dandelion Gallery & Studio’s site. On February 5th from 7:30PM to 9PM at the Three Brothers Theatre on Stage 115, enjoy a performance of “When It Comes We Can Worry Then” for a lovely evening of theatre. On february 6th from 12PM to 5PM enjoy an R&B Brunch with tickets ranging from $20-$50. Book your spot now for a day out in Chicago with your friends! On February 10th enjoy a Galentine Party hosted by Olson’s Ace Hardware in Park Ridge!  You can stop by for a fun filled evening of crafting and decor inspiration with your friends.  It’s a DIY extravaganza with a Sip & Shop to boot! Event is from 5 to 7 and you can get tickets here. On February 12th, get a little rest and relaxation with Gentle Yoga for Terrible Times at this free event hosted via Zoom! Click here to learn more and select a date; participation is limited to 500 person capacity login. On February 12th and February 13th at 10AM at Olson’s Ace Hardware, come on out for a free Kid’s Workshop creating Succulent Plant Valentines! On February 19th, enjoy the “Intro to PLants” workshop from 11AM to 12:30PM in a free class with a 20% off discount included on all purchases that day. Click here to register to learn how to be your best plant-parent self! On February 20th head on over to The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire for a rousing rendition of West Side Story. February 20th is Lady Day from 3PM to 5PM at the Metropolis Performing Arts Center in Arlington Heights, chronicling the life and music of the illustrious Billie Holiday at Emerson’s Bar and Grill. On  February 24th, get in touch with your inner child at the “Adults Night at the Trampoline Park” in Chicago from 7:30PM.  Tickets range from $21-$30 and you can book it right here. On February 26th, the Second Annual Black Excellence Awards Gala is taking place from 5PM to 8PM. Learn more about it here.

It’s February and we’re really excited about it, because that means the Chicago Auto Show is just around the corner!  From February 12th through the 21st, you can stop by McCormick Place Convention Center to experience the best, brightest, and most spectacular new advancements in the automotive industry!  We cannot wait to see all the exciting new technologies, concept cars, and incredible vehicles. more What You Need to Know Before You Go: The event runs February 12th through February 20th from 10AM to 10PM, and on February 21st from 10AM to 8PM. Tickets for the auto show are available online for $10-$15 (priced by age) and children under 3 are free with accompanying paid adult admission.  Group and school discounts are available! This year, there are some additional COVID-19 precautions in place to keep everyone safer: masks are required for everyone over the age of 2, and they must cover the mouth and nose; proof of vaccination is required for entry into the food and beverage and eating areas (this includes photo ID for those 16+.) Thursday February 17th and Friday February 18th be sure to bring some food to the Grand Concourse Ticket Lobby for the Chicago Auto Show Food Drive. And check back here for updates on food and beverage vendors to plan your day. Click here to enter to win a Grand Prize Package to the 2022 Auto Show! What We’re Most Excited About: This is one of the highlights of our year here at Classic Auto Group! Our staff at Classic Kia are extremely excited to check out all the amazing vehicles that Kia will be sharing this year!  They’ll be debuting the 2023 Kia Sportage, along with some other fantastic vehicles in production like the EV6, K5, Forte, Carnival, Soul, Stinger, and more! Check out the full list here. Head over to the Kia Display between 10AM to 6PM for the Kia Test Drive events. Our staff at Classic Toyota are looking forward to all of the great vehicles that Toyota will be showing off this year, too.  This year we’re anticipating the debut of the 2023 bZ4X, 2023 Sequoia, and the 2022 Tundra.  And that’s not all!  Toyota is also displaying selections from the production line such as the GR86, GR Supra, Corolla Cross, Venza, and the Prius. Check out the full lineup here. Where to Stay: The Marriott Marquis Chicago and Hyatt Regency McCormick Place are the official hotel partners for the Chicago Auto Show. Additional hotels include: Chicago South Loop Hotel Congress Plaza Hotel Best Western Grant Park Hotel Le Meridien Essex Chicago The Buckingham Hotel The Jaslin Hotel Villa Dubois Guest House McCormick Place Guest House The Blackstone, Autograph Collection Where to Eat Nearby: The Fine Print Restaurant Third Star Sixes & Eights Savor Chicago Connie’s Pizza Il Culaccino Woven + Bound Restaurant Piezano’s Pizza & Pasta VU Rooftop Bar Chicago Oyster House Mustard Seed Kitchen Apolonia What To Do Nearby: There’s also a lot of fabulous things to do nearby the area if you’re making a whole fun trip out of the event!  Check out our great picks for other activities to explore in Chicago near McCormick Place. Aerie Crown Theater The Art Institute of Chicago Tommy Gun’s Garage Millennium Park Chicago Cloud Gate The Field Museum Hamilton: The Exhibition Soldier Field Secret Food Tours Chicago Prairie Avenue Historic District The Magic Parlour The Magnificent Mile

Happy Lunar New Year! 我们祝你幸福，万事如意 Wish you happiness and all the best in the Year of the Tiger! Check out our picks for local restaurants, recipes, Lunar New Year traditions, books, and movies on today's blog. more February marks the beginning of Lunar New Year celebrations for the Year of the Tiger!  This week,  Asian-Americans in the US will be celebrating with their families, just like many others around the globe in China, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, North Korea, South Korea, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines! Each country has their own version of the festival’s celebrations, but at the central core of each of them is Family.  Today we’ll be focusing mainly on the Chinese celebrations for Lunar New Year, but we encourage you to explore other global versions of these celebrations with your family, as they are equally important and wonderful! Here are some key elements you will see in Lunar New Year celebrations: Dragon - Much like many of the other symbols in Chinese new year, this also represents prosperity and good fortune, as well as a cultural symbol that the Chinese people are descendants of the  Dragon. Click here to learn more about the festival origins! Duilian - These are two vertical banners usually placed on either side of a doorway which announce wishes for good fortune, success, and happiness in the coming year: - Wan Shi Ru Yi: May everything be as you wish - Da Zhan Hong Tu: May you achieve your great plan - Sheng Yi Xing Long: May your business be prosperous Fish - Whole fish is a traditional dish served on New Years, and it is considered quite lucky.  It is customary to leave the head, tail and bones in one piece symbolizing a good beginning and end to the year. Flowers - The Plum Blossom and the Water Narcissus (or white daffodil) are both prevalent in Chinese New Year celebrations.  Plum blossoms represent growth, hope, and courage.  The Narcissus plants are representative of good fortune and prosperity, and if the blossoms open precisely on New Year Day, it is said to bring good luck all year long! Lanterns - On the 15th day of Lunar New Year celebrations is the Lantern festival. Red - This hue is considered an auspicious color in Chinese culture, often used in decor, gift giving, clothing, and more.  It represents life, vitality, good fortune, and prosperity.  Red envelopes, or hong bao, are envelopes filled with money given to unemployed single folks and young children Lunar New Year Crafts for Kids Make some dragon crafts with the kiddos at home like these from Red Ted Art. Chinese dragon puppets would make a great addition for storytime! Hang up some handcrafted Chinese Paper Lanterns to get festive! Make a family friendly “T is for Tiger” Felt or Paper Craft with Printable Pattern Whip Up a Culinary Treat for the Lunar New Year Shochu Punch Chou Dao Miu Pea Sprouts Lunar New Year Dumplings Whole Fish with Ginger Sesame Oil Spicy Dan Dan Noodles Peking Duck with Honey Glaze and Five Spice Chinese Restaurants to Support in the Greater Chicago Area China Garden Restaurant in Waukegan Ming Toy Restaurant in Waukegan China Kitchen in North Chicago Hunan Sixth Happiness North Chicago Lung Fung Restaurant in Zion Win Win Restaurant & Bar in Waukegan Lao Sze Chuan in Highland Park House of Szechwan in Des Plaines Lao Sze Chuan in Skokie Chengdu Impression Restaurant in Chicago Mrs. Gu Skewers Hot Pot in Chicago Laojiumen Hotpot Chicago MCCB Chicago Xi’an Cuisine in Chicago Supporting Asian Creators Year Round We believe in supporting the AAPI community all year round and not just on special holidays or months! To celebrate all global Asian cultures that participate in Lunar New Year, we’ve compiled a wonderful list of books and films by Asian creators for you to enjoy! Fantastic Books by Asian Authors for Audio/EBooks Make sure to load up your e-reader or tablet with some of these great books before your next road trip! You’ll find a slew of incredible tales written by both new and treasured voices in the writing community. Beautiful Country by Qian Julie Wang Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin Amy Wu and the Perfect  Bao by Kat Zhang Land of Big Numbers by Te-Ping Chen How Much of These Hills is Gold by C. Pam Zhang A Pho Love Story by Loan Le Prairie Lotus by Linda Sue Park Stargazing by Jen Wang The Chosen and the Beautiful by Nghi Vo Home Remedies: Stories by Xuan Juliana Wang Front Desk by Kelly Yang Yolk by Mary H.K. Choi Finding Julie Kim by Ellen Oh A River of Stars by Vanessa Huo Severance by Ling Ma The Last Fallen Star by Graci Kim Luck of the Titanic by Stacey Lee American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang Movies to Stream Starring Asian Americans and AAPI Talent: Raya and the Last Dragon Over the Moon The Wish Dragon The Guardian Brothers Next Gen Ne Zha Go Back To China Front Cover It’s Already Tomorrow in Hong Kong Lucky Grandma Minari Crazy Rich Asians Shang Chi and the Legend of the 10 Rings Always Be My Maybe To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before