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Women's Equality day is celebrated in commemoration of the 19th Amendment to the US Constitution, which awarded women the right to vote in 1878.  In 1971, Congress deemed August 26th would be henceforth Women’s Equality Day. We’re going to share 5 mini profiles on notable women who pioneered the automotive industry from driving to design to engineering, and highlight some big names in racing. And stick around to the end to check out some great YouTube Videos of notable women in the automotive industry who are disrupting the status quo and changing the game! more 5 Notable Women in Automotive History Bertha Benz - Bertha completed the first successful cross-country trip in August of 1888 - a whopping 66 miles from Mannheim to Pforzheim.  With no road signs to guide her, and many roadways being unpaved dirt roads.  It successfully promoted the first automobile, created by her husband Carl Benz in Mannheim in 1886 two years prior. Margaret Wilcox - Margaret is considered one of the pioneers of automobile history thanks to her invention of the in-car heater system.  In November of 1893, her heating system received an official patent; she had created a combustion chamber consisting of a system of pipes beneath the passenger seat which disbursed hot water.  In addition to heating the interior, this invention also helped defog the windshield during cold or inclement weather. Wilhemine Erhardt - Wilhelmine was the wife of Eisenach Vehicle Factory manager, Gustav Ehrhardt. She became Germany’s first female car driver, and on August 3rd 1901, she was able to participate in the Eisenach-Meiningen long distance auto trip through the Hainich Mountain range.  Though she didn’t win the race, it was by a narrow margin that she’d lost placing. Mary Anderson - This young woman was inspired to create the very first automatic windshield wiper design, and applied for a patent in 1903; she was awarded the patent for her window-cleaning device on the 10th of November that same year.  The original device had a hand-operated level mounted at steering wheel level, which removed snow, rain, and sleet from the glass. Suzanne Vanderbilt - A member of General Motors only women-led “Damsels of Design” team, which disbanded in the early 1960s. Suzanne worked her way up the company roster, eventually being dubbed the Chief Designer of Chevrolet’s Interiors Studio in 1972, and was in charge of the interior soft trim on all GM lines.  She helped design interiors for models such as the Chevy Nova, Camaro, and the Chevette. How The Car Mom, Kelly Stumpe, is shaking things up in the automotive industry: Learn more about Tiffany Scherado, leader of the Amazing Women in Automotive Group: Learn about the trailblazing women of automotive history:

We’ve covered a lot of grounds as far as National Parks go, giving you lots of travel guides and road trip itinerary inspiration.  Today, we’re celebrating National Park Service Founders day with a brief history of the National Parks Service and its founding, followed by a short list of National Parks and Historic Sites to explore in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin! more During the Act of March 1st, 1872, Congress established the grounds of Yellowstone Park in the territories of Montana and Wyoming, which kickstarted the whole National Parks Movement.  Later, in August 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed the act which created the National Park Service, a federal bureau in the Department of the Interior responsible for protecting the 35 national parks and monuments then managed by the department, as well as future ones not yet designated.  The Executive Order in 1933 helped transfer 56 national monuments and military sites to the National Park Service.  Today, the National Park system is made up of more than 400 designated areas, including the 50 US States and Territories. How many national parks have you been to? Here’s a starting point to mark off on your National Parks map: Lewis & Clark Historic Trail (Spans 16 states including IA, ID, IL, IN, KS, KY, MO, MT, NE, ND, OH, OR, PA, SD, WA, WV) winds through almost 4,900 miles of the homelands from over 60 Tribal nations. It follows the inbound and outbound routes of the Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1803-1806 from Pittsburg through to the Pacific Ocean. Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail (In IL, IA, NE, UT, WY) follows the 1,300 mile path of the Mormons who fled Nauvoo and settled down in the Great Salt Lake Valley from 1846-1847. Pullman National Historic Park in Chicago, IL i s located on the far south side of Chicago.  The visitor center offers tours at 11AM and 2PM daily. Shawnee National Forest in Herod IL encompasses 289,000 stunning acres of parkland located in Southern Illinois and nestled between both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers.  Visitors will find breathtaking scenic views from the top of great canyons and sandstone cliffs, and stunning crystal clear waters and rocky streams. The many lakes, ponds, waterfalls, rivers, and streams of the area are perfect for fishing and swimming, and the sprawling prairies and woodland trails are perfect for hiking, cycling, trail running and more. Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge in Thomson IL is the longest, contiguous river refuge in the continental US at 261 miles in length!  The refuge includes protected wetlands, islands, marshes, and floodplain forests, many of which are accessible only by boat. Some portions of the refuge are open to seasonal hunting, trapping, and fishing but they do have very restrictive regulations. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Bayfield, WI encompasses 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland coastal protected areas.  In addition to the incredible bluffs on the shores of Lake Superior, it’s also home to the largest collection of historic lighthouses in the nation! Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Rhinelander WI spans a jaw dropping 1.5 million acres of unspoiled wilderness across Wisconsin’s Northwoods.  You’ll find no shortage of outdoorsy activities such as canoeing, hiking, cycling, paddling, cross-country skiing, camping, fishing, and more. Indiana Dunes National Park in Porter IN has 15 miles of gorgeous shoreline along the southern banks of Lake Michigan. The park is home to some of the highest dunes towering over the lake at nearly 200 feet high with impressive views and landscapes of the area!  It’s also an incredible destination for birdwatching, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature photography!

We love sharing road trips and travel guides with our readers!  It’s exciting to share suggestions for an itinerary full of amazing entertainment, excitement, and adventure, and help you discover great new places in the MidWest. Today’s road trip destination is Fort Wayne, Indiana, less than a four hour drive from our hometown of Waukegan.  It’s a great getaway for a long weekend or a new destination to shake things up from your usual.  So let’s take a look at the fun things in the area, and make some plans together! more Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is a beautiful botanical garden and conservatory with more than 2,000 indoor and outdoor garden plants, and a stunning set of seasonally rotating displays and events.  It first opened its doors in 1983, and has been a prime destination for visitors ever since.  This oasis features a Tropical Garden with a waterfall, a Desert Garden with cacti and succulents from around the world, a Showcase garden with seasonal displays, and oh so much more jam packed into its 24,500 square feet of space.  It is a must-see stop on your Fort Wayne vacation. Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has been charming families since 1965, and it’s easy to see why! Located on 40 gorgeous acres of habitats and walkings paths, you and your family will get an up close look at more than 1,000 animals!  In fact, just recently t he zoo welcomed a recent addition of a new baby to the Orangutan family This zoo is so beloved that is named one of the nations best zoos, with TripAdvisor ranking it as the 7th best zoo in the nation.  It’s a definite point on your bucket list for family fun! Fort Wayne Museum of Art has both permanent and national traveling exhibitions, and is part of the accredited American Alliance of Museums.  The museum's specialty is American fine and decorative art from the 19th century to contemporary.  You can easily spend several hours here perusing the exhibits, and attending special events and lectures on their calendar. Their collection is very unique and features a lot of culturally diverse works. Science Central Museum is a fantastic hands-on science museum that will delight visitors of all ages!  You can check out the remains of a mastodon found right there in Allen County, take an exhilarating ride down the 2-story slide, participate in live science demonstrations, and check out the rotating exhibits. Public Art Trail of Fort Wayne is an amazing way to take in the sights of the city, while exploring incredible works by local artists. This self guided tour features points of interest like full-scale wall murals, larger than life paintings, functional and interactive sculptures, and many more pieces of public art.  You’ll explore more than 100 different “instagrammable” locations and perfect backdrops for family photos.  Plus, there’s a special interactive game where you can check-in at different locations and win prizes!  Sign up for the mobile pass to track your route and play along while exploring. Other fun areas to look into include: The Embassy Theatre, Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, The History Center of Allen County, Electric Works and Union Street Market, Heritage Trail Walking Tour, Historic West Central Walking Tour

Today is National Discovery Day, and we’re sharing some incredible places that are hidden gems right in your own backyard here in the Lake County area.  From theatre shows to indoor adventure parks to gaming simulators to animals, we’ve got an incredible selection for just about every set of interests and hobbies.  Let’s explore our community and support some new businesses and creative establishments together. more The Citadel Theatre Company in Lake Forest, IL This beautiful, small theater company presents a wide range of theatrical productions year round from drama, comedy, contemporary theatre, classics, and cutting-edge new works from emerging artists.  They also offer workshops to teens and children, allowing kids to explore the joy of self-expression through dance, theatre games, improv, voice and character development.  You can grab tickets to individual performances, or join as a subscriber for special benefits and perks! Lambs Farm in Libertyville, IL This delightful stop off is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy country life through a trip to the farmyard, featuring a petting zoo, mini-golf mini train ride, bouncy house, and old-fashioned classic carousel.  There’s also plenty to do for furry friends with the Dogwood Pet Shop, a great eatery on site at the Magnolia Cafe and Bakery and Sugar Maple Country Store, and prime shopping/antiquing at the Cedar Chest Thrift Shop.  Best of all, each visit and purchase supports our community by helping maintain operations!  You’ll have a blast while supporting people with developmental disabilities who live and work at Lambs Farm. Improv Playhouse in Libertyville, IL Improve your comedic timing, boost your confidence, and increase your ability to think on your feet by taking a class with the fine folks at the Improv Playhouse!  Offering classes in comedy, improvisation, stand-up, acting and so much more, there’s no shortage of fun ways to explore self-expression.  And if you prefer to spectate, there’s plenty of opportunity to do that at their Saturday Night Improv Shows or Stand-Up Comedy First Fridays. The Tempel Lipizzans of Old Mill Creek, IL Tempel Farms has been around for nearly 60 years, educating the public about the incredible Lipizzan horse, and sharing breathtaking live performances and so much more.  There are matinee and evening performances featuring incredible performance riding demonstrations, and giving visitors an inside look at professional dressage and competitive equine sports. The Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville, IL If you’re looking for a great way to connect with friends or a fun date night out, this is the place to be!  This gourmet kitchen establishment has a wine bar, live cooking kitchen for classes and events, and a retail store.  From wine tastings to cooking demos and classes, you’ll have a blast exploring your culinary prowess here. Explore everything from hand crafted tarts to Julia Child’s classic desserts to worldwide fare like Korean Dumplings! It’s a delicious local venue that you just have to try.

Community matters to us here at Classic Kia, and we’re proud to be part of the Kia America family, especially A few days ago, on August 16th, Kia America announced that $150,000 in donations will be made to the American Red Cross and Hawaii Community Foundation to help with relief and response efforts for the devastating wildfires in Hawaii.  The American Red Cross will receive $100,000 and Hawaii Community Foundation will receive $50,000. more Additionally, Ken Garff Automotive Group, who owns seven Aloha Kia dealerships on Oahu, Kauai, Maui, and Hawaii, is providing relief support to employees and their families as well as 6 Kia vehicles with drivers for 60 days of community service; the drivers will help with logistical needs for Maui and Lahaina communities.  Additionally the Hawaiian auto group donated $50,000 in financial contributions to the Hawaii Community Foundation with a direct match from Kia America. In total, the Kia America family and Ken Garff Automotive Group have collectively donated $200,000 to the Maui relief efforts. The Hawaiian Community Foundation is an established, highly respected and very involved organization in the Hawaiian community. They’re renowned locally for their help in supporting local initiatives that support Hawaiian culture. In addition, Kia Finance America will be providing financial hardship assistance to those impacted customers who are eligible for payment relief solutions. $1,000 cash rebate on all new 2023-2024 Kia models for customers who provide proof of vehicle or home damage caused by the Maui wildfire that originated August 2023 and purchase from a qualified Kia dealer.  Proof of damage to be provided by a valid insurance claim form. Current customers affected by the disaster can contact KFA at (866) 331-5632 to discuss financial hardship support options. Maui Disaster Relief Buyer and Owners Program available through 11/30/2023 These latest donations are a further extension of Kia’s “Accelerate the Good” charitable initiative, which has provided more than $22 million to those in need since 2019. In addition to the donations to the American Red Cross and The Hawaii Community Foundation, Kia has made donations to causes that include treating childhood illness, helping to fight hunger and homelessness, relief for victims of natural disasters, and aid for military families.

There’s nothing we love more than hitting the open road and taking in the gorgeous landscapes and scenery that sprawl across US highways and byways.  Today, we’re exploring the iconic North Shore Scenic Drive, also known as Highway 61, which stretches from Duluth, Minnesota up through to the Canadian Border! Running along the coast of Lake Superior, you’ll find no shortage of absolutely breathtaking pine forests, rocky cliffs, lakeside wildlife, and so much more.  So let’s check it out and plan our getaway itinerary together! more What to see over the 154 mile journey along North Shore Scenic Drive: Duluth, Minnesota - This port city along Lake Superior is a bustling hub of culture, history, nature, and entertainment.  Notable stop-offs include Great Lakes Aquarium, the William A Irvin Museum, T he Lake Superior Zoo, Lake Superior Railroad Museum, Duluth Rose Garden, Hawk Ridge Bird Observatory, Aerial Lift Bridge, and so much more. If you’re looking for lodging between your first two stops, seasoned travelers of the route recommend the Larsmont Cabins and Cottages. Two Harbors - Highway 61 is a main route through Two Harbors, where you’ll enjoy gorgeous natural wonders such as Agate Bay Beach, Gooseberry Falls State Park. Iona’s Beach Scientific & Natural Area, Split Rock Lighthouse, and Superior Hiking Trail. History nerds will enjoy a visit to the Two Harbors Lighthouse Museum, Lake County Historical Society, 3M Birthplace Museum, Duluth and Iron Range Depot Museum, and North Shore Architectural Antiques Store. If you’re looking for lodging, previous visitors highly recommend Breezy Point Cabins in Two Harbors or Cove Point Lodge in Beaver Bay. Beaver Bay and Silver Bay - Gemstone aficionados and geologists will fall in love with the Beaver Bay Agate Shop f or gorgeous local gemstones and artisan jewelry so you can take a bit of nature back home with you!  But don’t shop too much, you’ll want a light pack to explore all the natural wonders of the area including Tettegouche State Park, Palisade Head, Black Beach, Beaver River Falls, Pellet Island, and Gitchi Gami State Trail. Schroeder - If you’re looking for excitement and thrills direct from mother nature, you’ll have a blast here exploring Temperance River State Park, Sugarloaf Cove Nature Center, Father Baraga’s Cross Landmark, and the Cross River. Lutsen - This stop off is a haven for adventure as you explore Caribou Lake, Cascade River State Park, and Lutsen Mountains. And when you’re done, you can kick back and relax with a tasting flight at North Shore Winery or play a few rounds at Superior National Lutsen-Golf Course If you’re wanting some cozy accommodations during this leg of the trip, local travelers passing through have stayed at The Mayhew Inn, Hungry Hippie Farm & Hostel, Trailside Cabins & Motel. Grand Marais - Visiting this destination is going to keep you very busy!  There’s the Grand Marais Lighthouse and harbor, the Gunflint Mercantile and Candy Shop, North House Folk School, Chik-Wauk Museum, Judge C.R. Magney State Park, Artist Point, and Nature Center on Gunflint Trail, Historic Cook County Museum, North Shore Commercial Fishing Museum Grand Portage -  Seated just 5 miles south of the Canada-US border, this northern community is the last stop on our journey, but not short on fun.  There’s plenty of nature to immerse yourself in at Grand Portage State Park and State Fores t, Pigeon River and High Falls.  Then check out the Heritage Center and Grand Portage National Monument (a recreated fur trade village.) Have you taken this route before? Let us know your picks for great places to stay and visit!

Today we’re exploring another great road trip opportunity, this time highlighting the Nebraska Sandhills National Scenic Byway (which is so beloved it has its own trip planning app!) Virtually untouched by development or human interference, this gorgeous byway is rife with scenic dune landscapes, rolling native grasses, sparkling blue lakes and streams, and incredible wildlife and ecosystems. more There's 272 miles of scenic driving to explore with gorgeous diverse landscapes, farmlands, and memorable views.  Dotted along the way you’ll find plenty of towns and cities worth stopping at for a bite to eat, a little bit of exploration, or some rest and relaxation. Plus, there’s more than 500,000 cranes migrating from the area seasonally, so you don’t want to miss that! Let’s take a look at some of the interesting towns you’ll find along your route: Ainsworth - Scenic and exciting things to explore in Ainsworth include the Keller Park State Recreation Area, the Sellors Barton Museum, and the Yellowthroat Wildlife Management Area. Alliance - This city is jampacked with fun activities and destinations!  You can explore history at the Sallows Military Museum, the Nebraska Veterans Cemetery, the Alliance Knight Museum, and Dobby’s Frontier Town. If you’re looking for something creative, check out Carhenge and Carnegie Art Center.  Nature fans will love Custer State Park, Chimney Rock Museum, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and The Mammoth Site. Anselmo - Take a drive over to the Victoria Springs State Recreation area to stretch your legs or campout under the stars. Arnold - Home to the Fort Cody Trading Post for good ol’ fashioned roadside souvenirs and kitschy collectibles, and then take a jaunt over to the Golden Spike Tower museum and historic site. While you're in town you can grab a bite to eat at its award winning and locally lauded eateries before you head back out on the road. Bassett - Museums of note in this old-timey Americana city include the Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center and the Mitchell Prehistoric Indian Village. Nature lovers can take a trek over to the Smith Falls State Park for some kayaking or fishing. Broken Bow - History buffs will love the Custer County Museum, followed by some exploring at the Boneyard Creation Museum. Head over to the Kinkaider Brewing Company f or some craft brews, or perhaps to Prairie Grounds Cafe and Gifts while you’re in town. Grand Island - This stop off will thrill nature enthusiasts with a visit to the Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center to catch a glimpse and learn about the Sandhill and Whooping Cranes and their natural habitats.  Then swing by the Platte River State Park to do some birding!  History nuts will have a great time walking through the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, and enjoy a walk down the historic Townsley-Murdock Immigrant Trail site. Halsey - This city is home to the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands, perfect for scenic views, camping, and hiking.  From there you can check out the Bessey Nursery, Scott Lookout Tower, the Middle Loup River, and Dismal River OHV Trail. Merriman -  This village is perfect for a camping trip at the Cottonwood Lake Recreation Area, or take a trip over to explore Bowring Ranch Historical State park Nenzel - Adults will enjoy a stop off here to the Niobrara Valley Vineyards for some wine tasting and wine selection. St. Paul - Is perfect for history lovers to spend the day as you check out the Major League Baseball Museum, Tubby’s Firehouse Museum, and the Howard County Historical Village with authentic pioneer era buildings! Taylor - This stop off is home to Harrop Sandhills Park where you can enjoy hiking and camping as well as nature watching, the Log Cabin Museum, and the Taylor Community Arboretum. And be sure to grab a brew or two at Bootleg Brewers while you’re in the area. Valentine - Smith Falls State Park is where it’s at if you want to see the tallest waterfalls in Nebraska! It’s great for some peaceful hiking and nature photography opportunities.

Today is National Roller Coaster Day! Being car people, we understand the rush of new adventures and the need for speed, and that’s why today’s post is dedicated to some of the best amusement parks and coaster destinations in the Midwest, United States.  Coaster aficionados will scour the land to find the best fix of adrenaline rush from the drops, spins, dips, and twirls, and are always looking for better, faster, stronger thrills. Folks who love coasters will tell you that it brings them unparalleled joy, excitement, happiness, and satisfaction.  And we can’t say we blame ‘em!  So let’s hit the road to fun and adventure and check ‘em out on today’s blog. more Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio - This amusement park has been a favorite of coaster aficionados for decades!  Opened nearly 150 years ago, this memorable coaster and amusement park destination has been charming families for generations, inspiring thrill-seekers to test their limits with 70 adrenaline-pumping coasters and rides.  With 18 world renowned roller coasters, a rotating series of live entertainment and special musical guests, classic family friendly amusement park rides, there’s no shortage of entertainment. It has become a name synonymous with award winning ride design, from its classic wooden coasters to its boundary pushing steel coaster engineering. Some of the most memorable rides at the park include Steel Vengeance, Millennium Force, Crosscurrent, and  GateKeeper.  Guests who visit the park recommend booking a stay at these nearby accommodations: Cedar Cove, Cedar’s Point Hotel Breakers, South Shore Inn, The Stables Kings Island in Mason, Ohio - With more than 100 rides and attractions, you’ll definitely want to add this to your must-see-coaster-destination list!  The park’s latest ride, the Orion Coaster, opened in July of 2020 and is one of only seven giga coasters in the entire world (a giga coaster has a height or drop of 300-399 feet) and the tallest, fastest coaster with the longest first drop in Kings Island Park.  The ride reaches a maximum speed of 91MPH and has a 300 foot drop that’s sure to knock your socks off!  Coaster fans also love Diamondback, Mystic Timbers, Flight of Fear, and the Banshee. For the coaster averse in your travel party, they can enjoy a day at the Soak City Waterpark, a ride around the park on the KI & Miami Valley Steam Engine Train, or even check out the Petting Zoo.  Guests who visit the park recommend booking a stay at these nearby accommodations: The Kirkwood Inn of Mason, Drury Inn & Suites Cincinnati Northeast Mason, Great Wolf Lodge Mason, English Manor Bed and Breakfast of Miami Township Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri - If you're looking for historic rides, you’ll want to catch the last season of rides on the Fire in the Hole coaster; this ride is closing after 2023 after nearly 25 million guests enjoyed half-a-century of thrills!  Featuring a storyline based on the real-life town of Maramos and the infamous arson of the Baldknobbers gang, you’ll ride through the burning town before plummeting through a splash down to extinguish the flames. It’s an absolutely unforgettable ride experience that’s soon to be history!  Other fan favorites include the Outlaw Run, PowderKeg, The Giant Barn Swing, and Thunderation.  For those with more mild interest in rides or attractions, they may enjoy the Tom & Huck’s River Blast experience, Mystic River Falls, or the Magnificent Wave Carousel.  Guests who visit recommend booking your accommodations at these nearby hotels: The Branson House Bed and Breakfast, Bear Creek Bed and Breakfast and Cabin Rentals, Hidden Falls Log Home Community, Best Western Music CApital In n, Grand Country Resort and Waterpark, Westgate Branson Woods Resort. Holiday World & Splashin Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana - This coaster and amusement park destination would give good ol’ Jack Skellington such joy he wouldn’t know what hit him.  Holiday World celebrates Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and July 4th through a series of themed coasters, live attractions, games, family rides, and more.  This theme park/water park hybrid, formerly known as Santa Claus Land, offers hours of unparalleled excitement for all ages.  Coaster fiends will tell you that the ride to beat is the Thunderbird, the first launched wing coaster in the US. This steel coaster launches you from 0 to 60MPH and features 2 crossovers with The Voyage coaster, a 125 foot vertical loop, a 140 foot Immelman loop, and if you’re looking for maximum thrills and excitement…choose the seat on the left wing, outside seat.  Visitors also recommend The Raven, The Howler, The Wildebeest, and The Voyage. Travelers to this coaster packed destination recommend booking your accommodations at: Santa’s Lodge, Santa’s Cottages, Lincoln Pines Lakefront Resort, Harvest Moon Suites, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Jasper. Other regional coaster stop-offs to check out include: Adventureland Resort in Altoona, Iowa; Valleyfair in Shakopee, Minnesota; Michigan's Adventure in Muskegon, Michigan; Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Missouri; Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Today is Mountain Day! Instead of giving you a list of destinations near and far, we’re going to help you get ready to take the road less traveled with these great service tips to prep your vehicle for mountain roadways instead!  Let’s look at how to get our vehicles in tip-top shape for those challenging steep slopes and death defying curves. Have you recently gone on a journey ascending or descending from a mountain summit? Let our readers know your experience and tips and tricks in the comments! more Bring your car in for a tuneup before you hit the road. Be sure to have your fluids changed and topped off, tires rotated and balanced, an engine tune-up, brakes checked, and that your tires are properly inflated to pressure.  Taking preemptive measures for a service appointment before you embark on your mountain travel will save you time, money, and aggravation in the long run. Prepare for emergencies with a fully stocked emergency kit. Be sure to stock up your spare emergency kit with first aid supplies, a tire patch kit, battery charger, emergency flashlights, road salt and/or gravel, a spare shovel, shelf stable food and water, warm clothing, various tools and safety gear for fixing flats and vehicle maintenance.  You can purchase a fully loaded kit online, or assemble your own. Be prepared to tackle mountain roads. Driving up and down mountains and navigating the bends and dips on the route can really keep you guessing.  Be ready for anything, and take extra caution.  Stay on your side of the road, and leave a little extra room between you and the vehicle in front of you; don’t tailgate or pass anyone on blind curves!  You’ll want to be prepared for sudden stops and short braking.  Look out for dirt and debris on the roadways, and potential hazards like water, mud, and snow.  Make sure to engage your parking brake when you’re pulling over to the side of the road to take in the view or if there’s an emergency, and place some rocks behind your tires to help prevent rolling back downhill.  If drivers behind you become impatient, it’s better to pull over to the side and let them pass so you can maintain proper speed. Keep your eyes peeled for special signage. Mountain roadways present additional hazards than your average residential or city street.  Make sure that you keep an eye out for animal crossings, as well as any steep graded roads, flooding areas, boulders or rocks falling, and other unpredictable foils of nature. Bring a Map and prepare for low-signal on GPS and SmartPhones. In this modern day and age, it’s all too easy to rely on our technology to do the navigation work for us. However, when driving up and down mountains and tucked away roadways, we’ll need to rely on manual navigation in case we lose reception.  Make sure you carry a local atlas and road map so you can plot your route before you leave, and refer to it to find alternate routes if need be on the fly with no reception to magically get you through.  It can also help to have a physical compass to denote the direction of your path, and help orient your spot on the map. Save your brakes and your engine from overworking. If you notice your car is struggling to make it up a steep incline, shift your vehicle into a lower gear to allow you to maintain constant speed.  If you need to brake frequently, pull over if you smell any questionable burning aromas; this will prevent you from burning out the brakes or getting into an accident.  Keep cool by rolling your windows down and turning off the AC to prevent overheating from making your engine work double time; likewise, if you notice it overheating you can blast the vehicle’s heat system to draw heat away from the engine until you can safely pull over.  Let your car rest at the summit or idle for a short period, allowing it to cool off and reducing the strain.

Schools are starting back up in just a few short days, so we thought it would be a great time to give student drivers a chance to get their first A+ of the school year.   Here’s some essential car maintenance tips for young drivers as they head back to class!  School your friends over cafeteria snacks with your amazing wisdom in all things automotive. more Check your seatbelts are working properly, and always remember to wear them. Not only is it the law, but it’s also imperative to your safety.  We know you’re in a rush to get to that school dance, the annual pep rally for homecoming, or even a froyo date with pals, but it’s important to get there safe and sound.  Make sure all passengers are wearing your seatbelts as well, not just the driver!  You can avoid costly traffic tickets and fines, as well as injury or death.  Be sure the seat belt fits properly, laying across your rib cage and pelvis, and that it latches securely and stays fastened if you tug on it. If your car has broken or outdated seatbelts, your local mechanic will be able to help you fit your vehicle with new, safer seat belt options. Bring your car in for a brakes inspection at your local mechanic shop. We know you’ve been out having the time of your life during summer vacation, driving to the beach, to theme parks, to the movies, etc.  And that’s why it’s important to bring your car in for inspection and service on a regular basis to ensure your brakes are properly working to keep you safe when you have to stop short.  If you notice your vehicle pulling to one side, vibrating, shaking, or making any funny noises when you slow down or come to a stop, it is more than likely you need a brakes system service appointment.  Don’t delay! Worn out brakes can mean you can’t stop quickly when you need to, or you may not be able to stop at all.  Keep yourself and your passengers safe with regular checks. Learn how to check your vehicle’s fluids, and top them off! Your vehicle will need regular refills, top-offs, and flushes of the various fluids in its system.  This includes wiper fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, motor oil, antifreeze/coolant, and sometimes even transmission fluid.  You want to make sure that you’re not delaying these checks and not letting things run dry.  Wiper fluid keeps your windshield clean and free of debris for proper visibility. Motor oil and regular oil changes will keep your engine running clean and prevent overheating.  Talk to your local mechanic to learn more about when and what you should be changing on your vehicle on average timelines, and check your owners’ manual for specific mileage needs for your make/model of car. Check that your interior lights and exterior brake lights/headlights are clean, clear, and shining brightly. Do a thorough test of your vehicle’s lights by checking headlights, high-beams, rear lights, turn signals, hazards, and brake lights.  As a friend or family member to walk around your vehicle as you test each one, and make sure to note what needs replacement or service.  Replace any and all worn-out or broken bulbs by taking a trip to your local auto parts supply store; your owners manual will help guide you to purchasing the right size, fit, and style of bulb. If replacing the bulb still hasn’t solved the problem, a trip to your local mechanic shop may be in order to check for electrical issues.  If everything is in working order but your headlamps look a little foggy, you can purchase a special cleaning kit from your local auto parts shop, or bring it in for a replacement piece of glass/plexiglass headlight covers.

The school year is just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean the fun and adventure has to stop!  Today is National Book Lovers Day, so we’re celebrating the only way we know how: with incredible reading picks for your last blast of summer weekend getaway (or perhaps stacking your “TBR Pile” for the upcoming autumnal months!)  Whether you prefer to stow your books in an eReader for stolen glances while navigating as co-pilot, or you are the resident driver of the trip and prefer audiobooks, we know there’s something for you on our list.  So without further ado, let’s check it out and see if we can get on the same page as you by selecting some reading picks! more Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen (Audiobook narrated by Kate Mara) This psychological thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat! Filled with tension, trauma, and turmoil, the story follows the relationship between Catherine Sterling and her mother, Ruth Sterling.  This heartbreaking tale is a page-turning collection of secrets, lies, and the wildest ride of mother-daughter relationships!  If you’re looking for a dramatic, women centric tale to keep you engrossed, this fast-paced thriller is chock full of thrills to suck you right in. Alethea by Karina Day, Philomena Polefrone (Audiobook Ensemble Cast) SciFi fans will be immersed in this tightly woven plot filled with twists, turns, and tension!  Set in New York City in 2048, Sam Bixler is a scientist working for the world’s most powerful corporation, and is about to learn a shocking truth about the dark secrets her employer, Telos, is harboring beneath the surface.  Full of mystery, intrigue, and death defying thrills, this book will be the perfect exciting conclusion for your summer reading list. Love, Theoretically by Ali Hazelwood (Narrated by Therese Plummer There’s nothing like a good summer romance to make you feel free as a bird and light as a feather!  Live vicariously through the cheeky and steamy love story between rival physicists Elsie Hannaway and Jack Smith, and follow along as the tension between them heats up in the lab and between the sheets.  Will Elsie get her dream job at MIT or will she get the man of her dreams? Por que no los dos!?  You’ll just have to find out in this thrilling summer read. The Amulet of Samarkand by Jonathan Stroud Fantasy fans will rejoice when they get their hands on the first installment of this imaginative trilogy!  Nathaniel is a magician’s apprentice with his heart set on a quest for revenge.  His dark intent to send a nefarious, strong-willed djinni on a quest to capture a sacred amulet thrusts him even further into the underbelly of society. Jampacked with thrills, chills, adventure, espionage, rebellion, and even murder, this is sure to keep younger readers riveted to their seat from beginning to end. Mission Unstoppable: The Genius Files, Book 1 by Dan Gutman Another great choice for younger readers on the go is this mystery adventure featuring kid detectives Coke and Pepsi McDonald!  These two siblings sure haven’t had your typical summer vacation, unless being chased across the country by your health teacher, dodging poison darts, thrown into a pit on top of some sand dunes, or near-drowning in a vat of liquified spam as “typical.”  Yes, you read that right!  The wacky hijinks of the McDonald Siblings is just the tip of the iceberg in The Genius Files series that we’re sure you will love as much as your kids do.

We’re so proud to be a part of the Kia family here at Classic Kia of Waukegan!  And we’re thrilled to announce that once again, Kia is blazing through this year with yet another record sales month for July 2023! The fast-growing company’s upward trend marks 12 consecutive months of year-over-year growth, with 6 models cementing their year-over-year increases, and five setting their best-ever July sales records.  In addition, Kia’s electrified vehicle offerings have seen sales rise 72% over this time last year, as well as sales of utility models rising 17%.  Let’s take a closer look at this incredible success and celebrate together. more Continuing the upward momentum, Kia America has set an all-time record for July sales by moving 70,930 units, marking a 14% increase on the same period in 2022 last year, as well as breaking the previous record of July 2021!  Kia’s retail sales in July totaled 66,485, marking a 13% year-over-year increase. During Kia’s 12th month of consecutive sales growth, six models in particular posted consistent year-over-year sales increases. The Kia Niro rose 384%; the Kia Carnival rose 136%; the Kia Seltos rose 39%; the Kia Rio rose 18%, the Telluride rose 17%; the EV6 rose 13%. The five Kia vehicles that achieved their best-ever sales in July include the Kia Carnival, up 40%, the Kia Seltos, up 17%, and the Niro, Telluride, and EV6 all up 13%! Other big news this month includes the announcement of a new Kia joint venture initiative to expand high-powered charging in North America. Together with BMW, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Stellantis, Kia has joined forces to install a minimum of 30,000 high=powered charging points in urban and highway locations across the US. The goal is to ensure EV owners can charge wherever and whenever they need, and increase usage of reliable renewable energy sources. Additionally, both the Kia EV6 and the Kia Telluride received SlashGear’s Best Cars of 2023 awards. The EV6 received Best EV; the Telluride received Best Family SUV. It’s an exciting time to be in the Kia family, and we’re excited to see what the future holds! Kia Sales Totals for July and Year To Date: MONTH OF JULY YEAR-TO-DATE Model 2023 2022 2023 2022 EV6 1,937 1,716 10,265 14,284 Rio 2,358 1,992 16,554 16,910 Forte 11,004 10,016 73,065 61,822 K5 6,215 6,440 37,112 41,752 Stinger 464 513 5,018 5,676 Soul 5,123 5,322 39,870 32,930 Niro 3,112 643 22,437 18,309 Seltos 5,251 3,790 37,674 23,556 Sportage 11,853 11,985 83,742 64,341 Sorento 8,569 9,473 51,376 48,518 Telluride 9,759 8,318 65,043 55,211 Carnival 5,285 2,241 23,107 12,479 Total 70,930 62,449 465,263 395,789