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Wondering when you should bring your car to the body shop?  We’re here to help shine a light on some of the reasons you should take your car in for repair and service, and what major items a body shop sees the most. more The average auto repair shop will fix engine components, mechanical and technical issues, and restore worn or broken parts from daily use.  The automotive mechanic can diagnose technical problems with your vehicle, monitor fluid levels/lubrication, and all manner of things in regards to operation and running.  You’ll see a mechanic frequently to perform regular maintenance to keep your car running smoothly. An autobody shop can restore vital elements of the physical structure such as the frame, door, window, bumper, and other parts that aren’t involved in the mechanical function.  Auto Body technicians specialize in restoring, refinishing and replacing the structural components to match original factory specifications.  Visits to a body shop are usually less frequent than a need for regular mechanic maintenance appointments. What are the major reasons to bring your car to an auto body shop? If your car has been hit by debris from the road, the body shop can repair the dings, dents, and damage from daily driving: cracks and stars in windshield, refuse falling from trucks, knicks and scratches from roadway debris. If your car has been side swiped on the street and left with cosmetic damage or technical damage from scrapes, bangs, broken mirrors, and other issues from mild collisions If your car has been left to the elements and mercy of mother nature: fallen tree limbs, broken branches, hailstorms, icicles and snowdrifts, water damage. What does the auto body shop repair regularly? Removing dings and dents in the sheet metal and straightening them out Replacing bumpers, body panels, doors, etc. Windshield repair or replacement General restoration following an accident or collision Repairing paint, repainting clear-coat, and restoring factory match paint colors Frame damage repairs to prevent structural issues At Classic Auto Body & Service Center in Waukegan, we do it all!  We’re here to make your experience as easy and stress free as possible.  We have an on-site car rental facility, 24-hour towing service on request, and an easy process for requesting work estimates and scheduling appointments for repair!  Just give us a call and we’ll get you back on the road in no time at all.

Several Kia Models Recognized as Top Performers in Their Respective Segments Kia earned first-place and top-ranked honors in MotorTrend’s Ultimate Car Rankings for the second half of 2022 Nine different Kia models across various categories were recognized, including the award-winning 2022 EV6 and 2023 Telluride, along with several other electrified vehicles MotorTrend updates Ultimate Car Rankings list twice a year; award criteria based on over 70 years of testing expertise as well as scores in safety, value and more more IRVINE, CA, September 2, 2022 – Nine Kia models were recognized in MotorTrend’s Ultimate Car Rankings for the second half of 2022. More than half of the podium winners are electrified vehicles, including the crowd favorite 2022 EV6, which took the top spot in the Electric SUV category. "With so many of Kia's podium award winners hybrids or EVs, electrified vehicles are clearly becoming a strong suit for the brand,” said Buyer’s Guide Director Zach Gale. “From the superb Sportage Hybrid to the sporty EV6, Kia has made its presence felt in MotorTrend's Ultimate Car Rankings." 2023 Telluride The 2023 Telluride, 2022 Rio Sedan, and Rio Hatchback, came in first place in the 3-row SUV, subcompact sedan, and subcompact hatchback segments, respectively. Bolstering Kia’s stable of electrified vehicles, the 2022 Niro 1, Sportage Hybrid and Sorento Hybrid took second place in the Compact Hybrid Hatch, Compact Hybrid SUV, and 3-Row Hybrid SUV segments, respectively. 2022 Rio 5-Door “We are honored so many of our vehicles have been recognized, especially the EV6, which continues to reaffirm its leadership status among an impressive field of electrified competitors,” said Steve Center, COO and EVP, Kia America. “While these rankings reinforce our advancement in electrification thus far, we’ll only become more formidable as our ‘Plan S’ strategy continues to unfold.” MotorTrend's Ultimate Car Rankings launched in 2020 to help the average car buyer better understand their options. Using its long-running Car, Truck and SUV of the Year award programs as a foundation, the ranking system evaluates how a car drives, long-term value, safety, efficiency, driving range, technology, and more. For more details on MotorTrend’s Ultimate Car Rankings, visit https://www.motortrend.com/cars/

Today is International Literacy Day!  We’re celebrating this important holiday, created in 1967 and supported by UNESCO, by sharing a list of amazing organizations and charities who support Literacy as a Human Right.  More than 770 million people around the world are lacking in basic literacy skills, but you can help change that by donating to funding efforts or sharing your time through volunteer efforts! more Through combined efforts of community outreach, charitable giving, active volunteerism, and advocacy work, UNESCO aims to promote accessible learning and increase resources to those who need it most.  This year’s theme is Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces, and focuses on creating quality, equitable, and inclusive learning education environments for all.   With many schools and education systems disrupted by pandemic related issues over the last two years and change, access to school and literacy education has been lost or interrupted for so many vulnerable people. Check out these wonderful local organizations that promote Literacy and Reading in our community: Reading Success - United Way of Lake County Adult Classes at Waukegan Public Library Adult Literacy and ESL Programs at College of Lake County Illinois Literacy Volunteers of Illinois Literacy Works in Chicago Chicago Literacy Group Literacy Office of Illinois State Library Everyone Reading Illinois Center for Literacy at University of Illinois, Chicago Here’s a list of different ways that you can support Literacy efforts at home and in your community. Let’s help improve the lives of children and adults everywhere! Reading with Children: Start reading to kids at an early age.  Fostering a love for reading can begin as early as infancy!  Reading books to young children can encourage them to be more interested in books. Inviting them to participate in easy tasks such as looking at pictures and describing them, pointing out what they see, holding the book for you to read, and even turning pages can help them connect with books and reading in a positive light. Turn on the subtitle and captioning function for movies and television programs at home, to help children connect words and descriptions to the verbal dialogue and actions on screen, especially if they’re learning English as a multiple/second language. Establish a read-aloud routine with the children who are in your care.  Creating a specific time (or times) every day as a set scheduled story time can help children look forward to reading, and create healthy patterns and habits.  Kids love predictability and thrive on routine, and having at least 2 read-aloud time slots to look forward to can engage them with books and stories in a meaningful way. Engage in “See-Show-Say” strategies for early learning and childhood development, and highlight different vocabulary words as a focus of each story and read-through. Allow children to choose the books and stories you’re reading, and put at least one of their all-time favorite books in heavy rotation during your sessions!  The more excited children are about what content you’re reading, the more likely they are to participate, engage, and pay attention. Reading with Multilingual and English-Language-Learning Speakers: Offer ELL students one daily lesson with English vocabulary, and highlighting the structure and style of English Language, and encourage them to engage with content through verbal responses and answer questions at least one time each during each reading/learning session. Note that English language learners may require five years or more to catch up to fully fluent English-speaking students, so be patient, empathetic, and affirming in their positive steps forward. Encourage students in a class or workshop setting to engage with their peers through writing, peer-critique and feedback, and read-alouds in small groups. Increasing Access to Reading and Literacy at a Community Level: Help communities and schools provide screen readers, assistive listening devices, captioning, and other accessibility resources to disabled, hard of heating, and blind individuals. Create and maintain a “Little Free Library” in your neighborhood or community, and make sure it is stocked with reading materials for all levels. Include some phonics/comprehension and English Language Learning materials to increase accessibility. Include large-print books to help comprehension, as well as accessibility for those with limited vision or difficulty reading fine print.  Include wordless picture books to encourage storytelling and reading comprehension even if a person or family does not speak English fluently Donate books to local school libraries and classrooms, and ask local teachers and school librarians what books they have on their wishlist. Include books that are multilingual, bilingual, and feature diverse protagonists to encourage new readers or new ELLs to engage and connect with stories. Volunteer your time to reading of stories at local schools, libraries, family shelters, youth groups, and hospitals. Volunteer your time and patience to tutoring efforts for ELLs and new readers to gently and enthusiastically encourage them to continue learning outside of the classroom. Support local legislature that funds libraries, supports public schooling, funds summer reading programs, and other organizations that provide free learning tools and opportunities to the community. Donate your time and money to support local and international charities who provide learning resources and reading materials to underserved, marginalized, and underrepresented demographics around the world.

If there’s two things we love here at Classic besides cars, it’s celebrating fun holidays and supporting our fellow community businesses.  Since today is National Beer Lovers Day, we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to highlight some of the wonderful micro breweries, indie brew pubs, and other related businesses in the area.  We’re always delighted to connect with new local businesses and patronize the establishments in our neighborhood. It’s a lovely feeling to get to live, work and play here in Lake County and the surrounding Greater Chicago Area! more Did you know that the craft brewing industry has had a magnificent impact on the economy here in the US? In 2021, the industry contributed more than $75 Billion into the US economy and more than 490,000 jobs?  The beer industry itself supports more than 2 million American jobs and more than $330 billion contributed to the US Economy according to a 2020 study. The early months of the Covid19 pandemic did shake things up a bit, and the industry is working hard to rebuild and reinvigorate jobs and production.  Supporting small breweries is a great way to help improve the economy on a local and national level! Locally owned and operated businesses are a vital part of our community!  These businesses are the foundation of our local economy, provide diverse resources, function as community meeting centers, create meaningful connections and networks, and provide plenty of jobs to local citizens. Consider stopping by these businesses for a brew or booking them for a special event!  Many of them also offer cases or multipacks that you can take home for your parties, gatherings, or sell wholesale to your restaurant or cafe.  It’s a great way to directly support your neighbors and local business while helping them reach new audiences. Local Micro Breweries, Brew Pubs, and Beer Companies: Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium Brewery ZumBier Lake Bluff Brewing Company Tighthead Brewing Company Booners Bosacki’s Brewery Light the Lamp Brewery Oppidan Spirits Black Lung Brewing Company Mickey Finn’s Brewery Harbor Brewing Company North Avenue Tap Liquid Love Brewing Flapjack Brewery Goose Island Brewhouse Lagunitas Brewing Company Chicago Crushed by Giants Brewing Company Chicago Metropolitan Brewing Chicago Upcoming Beer and Brew Festivals: Highland Park Oktoberfest, September 16th/17th Grayslake Craft Beer Festival in Grayslake, September 17th Brewgrass Festival 2022 in Round Lake Beach, September 17th Oktober Fest Chicago, Friday September 23rd 6th Annual Beer in the Woods Festival in Chicago, September 24th Festival of Wood and Barrelaged Beer in Chicago,  November 4th/5th Oktoberfest at Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove, September 30th A reminder about responsible, safe driving: Please, remember that even just one alcoholic beverage before driving can impair your thinking, reasoning, and coordination.  Bear in mind that generally you should wait at least one to two hours after one drink, so your body has enough time to process the beverage.  In any case, no matter where you’re going or how many people you’re with you should have at least one designated driver in attendance when you visit any bar, brew pub, or event where alcohol is served.  The safest driver is a fully sober driver! If you or someone you know have a drinking problem, there are organizations and people who can help. Lake County Health Department Addictions Treatment Program Banyan Treatment Centers - Arlington Heights Recovery Centers of America at South Elgin JEM Treatment INC Addictions Associates Therapy Inc of Libertyville

We’re all recovering from a very busy holiday weekend, so we thought we’d keep things a little lowkey when it comes to blog updates.  After the transition to work week vibes, we figured it would be fun to kick back and relax with a little YouTube video fun!  Check out our roundup of recent and interesting uploads to some of our favorite channels. more We love seeing all the ways that folks customize their cars and really make their mark on the automotive world. Check out these interesting vehicles and cool collectible cars in this Automotive Meet Recap from Ed’s Auto Reviews on Youtube. Who doesn’t love a good rags to riches story? Well, this wild van has had quite the ride from rags to riches to rags to abandonment and finally restored to its former glory.  Check out this super fun video from our fave channel, Tavarish! Donut Media has arguably one of the most fun channels in the Automotive YouTubesphere. The crew is testing “Shark Tank” Car Products and giving you a full rundown.  Watch the pitch, watch the test, and decide for yourself!  Check it out. If you’re not subscribed to Rich Rebuilds, what are you waiting for?!  You’ll love the wacky and creative antics of Rich and his pals as their Electrified Garage takes on a slew of unique electric and alt-fuel rebuilt and reconfigured vehicles. In this episode, they’re trying out a solar powered car with 1000 miles of range! Who hasn’t watched a sci-fi movie and thought man that would be so cool to drive those futuristic cars? Well, thanks to experimental technology and conceptual engineering you may be closer to your dreams than you think!  Check out this concept car test driven by the Fully Charged Show on YouTube. This video from Marques Brownlee’s “Auto Focus” segment (and channel!) highlights the future of the car industry and the switch from fossil fuels to alt and electric cars. Check out his feedback and experience driving and enjoying the recently released Hyundai IONIQ. Looking for ways to connect with other likeminded folks in automotive industry? Car Meets are a fantastic way to connect with the community and make friends and network.  Check out this video from Gears and Gasoline about the positive aspects of Car Meets and car culture!

It’s National Tailgating Day!  Whether you’re at the stadium or arena for a big pro ball game, or you’re hanging out with fellow parents at your kiddos’ local tournament, there’s never a bad time for a tailgate party. Get ready for the upcoming sports season with these fun car gadgets and travel worthy barbecue gear. more Great Gadgets for Tailgating at Home or Away with Friends Even if you opted out of season tickets this year, we’re bringing you plenty of ways to party with your friends and social bubble and recreate the game-day experience.  Gather your friends in your driveway, the cul-de-sac, or a local parking lot for some good ol’ fashioned tailgating with modern convenience. Camp X Chairs from REI Co-Op (currently on sale for 50% off at time of posting!) have a max capacity of 300lbs, making them very size inclusive.  They have integrated cup holders to keep your drinks from spills, a convenient pocket for your cell phone, and easy to clean mesh and polyester fabric. They’re light weight and packs up into its own carry bag. You’ll want to have at least a set of four on hand at all times! The Eureka Camp Table at REI (currently on sale under $100!) folds flat, stows easily, and pops up in no time! It can hold quite a lot of equipment and food at a 90lb capacity total, making it very convenient for tailgating and serving meals!  As an added bonus it comes with its very own carry bag for portability. We love it when gadgets are not just useful but also conveniently practical! This combination storage cooler and ottoman is the best of both worlds! Stuff it to the gills with your favorite drinks, meats, fruit, and other goodies. Empty it out, fire up the grill, and when you’re done you can pack it up flat to stow and go!  Great for all-year round use anywhere. Available at Overstock in multiple colorways. Looking for a portable and affordable grilling option?  Take your show on the road with this 13” barrel charcoal grill for less than $50 (and at the time of posting, it’s on a closeout deal!)  Easy maneuverability and ample space to do kebabs, burgers, hot dogs, and more. Available here at Wayfair. Even though Autumn usually ushers in the cooler weather, it’s still important to remember protection from the sun! The SUV Tailgate Canopy Tent attaches easily to the rear hatch and allows your guests to enjoy some shade. It’s also great for those misty, foggy days for a little protection from the elements so you can enjoy your games no matter the weather! Flexible set up for SUVs, Crossovers, Mini Wagons, or Pickup trucks with a cap. Available here at Sharper Image. Great Tailgating Recipes and Cooking Gear Every good tailgating grill master will want to have the following on hand at all times to ensure their toolbox has all the essentials for an outdoor ‘cue or picnic: High heat silicone tongs 1 high heat silicone spatula Large metal serving spoons Metal serving bowls set Grilling tools set Industrial trash bags Camping plates and cups set or disposable plastic/paper 100% Compostable Utensils Set Aluminum Foil, Plastic Wrap, Ziplock Bags A Lighter and/or long matches Charcoal or Butane fuel Tired of the same ol’ same ol’ grilled meats and bottled beverages? Spice things up with these new recipes and impress your guests. Easy BBQ Brats Must-Try No-Cook Tailgating Recipes by Mighty Mrs 11 Best Tailgate Grill Recipes Pullapart Dogs in a Blanket Ring Mary Alice’s Hoagie Dip Butterscotch Peanut Butter Bars Mini Sliders Grilled Beer Punch Venezuelan Empanadas Devon’s Award-Winning Chili Spiked Lemonade

We’re very excited to announce that today is National Skyscraper Day, and being as we live near one of the greatest cities in the US, we’re celebrating Chicago Architecture!  The world’s first skyscraper, The “Manhattan Building, was built in Chicago in 1888-1891 as designed by William Le Baron Jenney.  Although The Manhattan Building was but a mere 138 feet tall, it originally towered well above the rest of the city’s surrounding buildings. more The Rookery Building is a historic office building completed by Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root in 1888, with help from Frank Lloyd Wright and William Eugene Drummond, and is one of their most iconic buildings and at the time of erection was one of the tallest buildings in the world at 11 stories high!  Once the home of their architectural firm Burnham and Root, it’s now a functional office building for multiple Chicago businesses and organizations.  Tourists are welcome to go into the lobby to observe its gorgeous architecture. Chicago Cultural Center building opened its doors in 1897 as the city’s first public library and Civil War Memorial, and was designated a Chicago Landmark historic building in 1976.  This Neoclassical style building.  It’s currently operated by Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, and remains the official reception venue for all diplomatic meetings of the Mayor of Chicago and their esteemed guests.  Currently, it houses art exhibits, free programs and community events, and remains open to architectural tours. The Wrigley Building is located in the city’s Magnificent Mile, right across from the Tribune Tower.  Construction began in 1920 by architects Graham, Anderson, Probst, & White, and was completed a year later in 1921 in the impressive Spanish Colonial Architectural style, inspired in part by the Giralda Tower of the Cathedral in Seville, Spain  It soars high above the city with an impressive clocktower, and 6 stunning shades of white that increase in brightness as the building rises.  The facade is illuminated each evening and through the night to provide a glimmering beacon for the city.  It was officially entered as a Chicago Landmark in 2012. Tribune Tower was originally built in 1868 and destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, and and rebuilt over the course of two years from 1923-1925 in the Neo-Gothic/Gothic Revival style; In 1922, the Chicago Tribune held a global competition for design firms to submit their best design for the press’ new headquarters, and with more than 250 entries from more than 20 countries, the powers that be selected a design by Raymond Hood, John Mead Howells, John Vinci, and Edward J. Burling.   It was sold off in 2016 by Tribune Media to a group of developers, and is currently repurposed as luxury housing. Other Buildings of note include: TheMART (formerly Merchandise Mart), Marina City, Willis Tower (formerly The Sears Tower), Aqua Tower, St. Jane, Auditorium Building, NBC Tower. Want to tour the city’s architecture, but not break the bank with a paid tour? Check out this great Free Tours by Foot video on YouTube: Learn more about Chicago’s First Skyscrapers from the Chicago Architecture Center:

We’re back with the latest edition of Classic’s Community Calendar!  Whether you’re looking to occupy your Labor Day Weekend with fun-filled activities, or you’re planning ahead for weekend breaks from Back to School wackiness, we’ve got you covered! more On September 1st at Hinkston Park, stop by with your special someone for “Pop-Up Picnic in the Park Couples Date Night. On September 1st, 2nd and 3rd, enjoy a Guided Museum Tour of the African American Museum at England Manor at 11AM, 1PM and 3PM! On September 2nd, enjoy First Friday on Mainstreet in Libertyville from 10AM to 9PM for an entire day filled with community bonding, art, shopping, food, live music, and so much more! On September 2nd, 3rd, and 4th the Downtown area of Highwood is transforming into Nashville’s Honky Tonk Row for its 5th Annual Nashwood Music Festival! It’s three whole days of FREE live music with country, bluegrass, southern rock flare.  There will also be plenty of delicious food and drink specials throughout the weekend, and 25 different venues including 10 outdoor spaces! On September 3rd shop your heart out at the Back to School Pop-Up at 12912 Cheyenne Road in Waukegan and check out the plentiful wares of local vendors and artisans! On September 3rd in the evening from 6PM to 8PM, head over to the Plant House in Waukegan for an evening of Therapeutic Art Making and experiential art making!  You’ll get to socialize, try new materials and mediums, and take a creative approach to self expression for your mental health. On Saturday September 3rd,  head over to the Wauconda Chamber of Commerce office from 5PM to 11PM for Wauconda’s 23rd Annual Street Dance event! On September 4th at the Belvidere Discount Mall, the gearheads among us will get their engines revving for the Cars & Elotes Labor Day Celebration event! September 4th at Art Pop in Lake Forest you can stop by anytime between 10AM and 5PM for “The Inside Art Show at Art Pop” September 3rd through 5th is the last weekend for the Bristol Renaissance Faire of Lake County IL. September 8th in Lake Zurich, stop by in the evening around 5PM to the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce for a super exciting “Cruisin’ Lake Zurich Car Show” event! September 10th from 9AM to 1PM enjoy a morning filled with fun classic cars at t he Grayslake Rotary and Fop Car Show Cruisin’ on Center at Downtown Grayslake Center Street. September 10th and 11th is the very exciting 11th Annual Mundelein Arts Festival, from 10AM to 5PM you can enjoy arts, music, food, shopping, and much more! Free admission and free parking. Sunday September 11th at the Impact Fuel Room is a wild and joyful “Drag Me to Brunch” event in Libertyville! Fun, food, and entertainment! On September 15th, 22nd, 24th, 29th starting at 5PM, head over to Waukegan BMX to catch the Local Race Single as part of the local race series for just $15. On September 17th in Lake Forest at the Gordon Community Center from 5PM to 7:30PM come on out for the Annual Block Party 2022! On September 21st at Green Town on The Rocks, come catch some wonderful live music from 6PM to 9PM at the lakefront with Billy Garner. September 24th at Cuneo Mansion & Gardens is a wonderful support charity event “Bottoms Up for Babies” with live music and a live speaker event starting at 6:30! Come on down to the Waukegan Public Library’s NonFiction Book Club on September 28th from 5PM to 7:30PM and learn a little something new! On September 30th from 6PM to 9PM at Dandelion Gallery & Studio, come over and paint with Artist Cody Madura for an “Adult Paint Social: Autumn Inspired” class! September 30th at the Genesee Theatre from 6:30 to 7:30PM, get a jump start on the season of scary with a Ghost Wauk Tour!

If you’re a Last-Minute Larry when it comes to vacation planning, you’re certainly not alone!  Today’s post is all about convenient weekend and day-trip getaways that you can book in a jiffy. You’ll find all manner of entertainment and excitement on today’s list, and of course, we welcome your own suggestions in the comments section on all our social media.  Check it out and be well on your way to rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation for this last blast of Summer fun! more Out of State Excursions Wehr Nature Center, Wisconsin is a 220 acre nature preserve in Hales Corners Wisconsin outside of the Milwaukee area.  It’s located inside the 660 acres of Whitnall Park, and has 5 miles of meticulously maintained trails which loop in, around, and through different regions.  Choose from the Lake Loop, Woodland Trail, Family Friendly Trail, Red Trail-Grasslands Trail, and the Wetland Trail.  They’re rated by difficulty, so you can choose the option that best suits your experience as a hiker and trail rider.  It’s a beautiful area that has planted prairie land and savannas filled with waving tall grasses, flowering herbs and plants, and plenty of spaces for birds, furry critters, and more to call it home. Forest Exploration Center in Wauwatosa, WI is a fantastic place for visitors of all ages to come and get an up-close look at the forest landscape of Wisconsin!  Its purpose is to educate the community about sustainable forestry, educational programming, and first-hand experiences through immersive trail walks and exploration.  It’s 1-mile trail loop is also wheelchair accessible, which is a wonderful option for inclusive travel needs.  The facility has both indoor and outdoor events at its interactive science center through its exhibits and rotation of programming. Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison, Wisconsin is a bite-sized dose of natural wonders!  This award-winning botanical garden consists of 16 acres of impeccably groomed outdoor gardens and walking paths, and The Bolz Conservatory which is a 10,000 square foot indoor tropical garden.  You can check out the sunken garden, herb garden, tower garden, perennial garden, rose garden and so much more! Devil’s Lake State Park, Wisconsin is a woodsy, outdoorsy state park which sees 3 million visitors a year!  You’ll find ample opportunities for boating, canoeing, kayaking, as well as swimming, fishing, and other watersports.  Those who prefer to remain on land can enjoy hiking the many trails to scenic overlooks such as the 500-foot quartzite bluffs, or taking their bikes on a challenging trail ride.  You can stop in for the day, book a cabin or hotel offsite, or check out the campgrounds at the park itself. Killsnake Wildlife Area, Wisconsin is seated between multiple counties and spans a vast 7,000 acres between them!  If you’re looking to enjoy an immersive nature experience with less crowds and quieter foot traffic, this is the spot for you.  With plenty of landscapes to choose from such as prairie grasslands, uplands with wetland-grassland areas, a hardwood forest, cedar swamp, agricultural landscape, wetland restoration projects, and even a bog, you’ll have lots of variety for exploration.  As for activities, you can enjoy birding, canoeing, hiking, hunting (if in season, please adhere to posted signage and check WDNR resources), trapping, gathering of wild edibles, and plenty of opportunities for nature photography. In State Adventures Starved Rock State Park, Illinois is located along the Illinois river, and home to gorgeous sandstone canyons created by glacial melts hundreds of thousands of years ago.  You can enjoy wildlife watching and birding, hiking, river cruises, trolley tours, and swimming.  Depending on the rainfall and the season, you can also enjoy multiple waterfalls in the following canyon areas: St. Louis, French, and Wildcat canyons.  Looking for scenic views? Check out Lover’s Leap Overlook!  It’s peaceful, tranquil, and a majestic site to visit that your whole family will enjoy. Morrison Rockwood State Park, Illinois is a gorgeous place for family and friends to gather and drink in the last days of Summer!  With nearly 100 camping sites and the ever-popular Lakeview Picnic Area, it’s a fantastic place to meet up with loved ones for a picnic meal, and get some fresh air and detox from electronics, screens, and the rat race of the work week.  You can enjoy ample activities such as hiking and biking trails, boating and fishing, horseback riding, and then some.  And if you're looking for spacious blue skies, crisp, clean air, and a little solitude you’ll certainly find it on any of the 1,164 acres of this gorgeous Illinois State Park area. Heidecke Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area, Illinois is a 1300 acre preserve area within the Illinois State Parks system.  If you’re into fishing and hunting, you’ll be in heaven at this state park; adhere to posted state and local area guidelines for what’s in season to hunt or fish.  Take in the wildlife at the Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area, or head out onto the lake for an afternoon of boating and fishing.  Hike any of the beautiful trails along the shores and into the forests.  Be sure to check the rules for specifics on watercraft, as there are limits to what type/size can be used. Galena, Illinois is a fantastic place to stop over for those who aren’t so interested in Nature and the Great Outdoors. You’ll have a blast jumping back in the past by touring places such as Ulyssess S. Grant Home, the Jo Daviess County Historical Society, Galena Museum, Old Blacksmith Shop, and many more historical sites.  Enjoy the finer side of life with a trip to Galena Cellars Winery, Blaum Bros Distilling Co., and take in the fine art at the Chicago Athenaeum.  If you’re looking for unique places to shop for yourself or even to find fun things for gifting during the upcoming holidays, the downtown area is full of unique nooks and interesting shops!  It’s a quaint little town rich in history, culture, and fun.

School is starting and many young drivers are taking their first steps to independence by driving to their classes and after school jobs, social events, sports games, etc.  If you’ve got multiple teens in your household, the car swap shuffle can get a bit tiring and hectic!  As a result, you may be considering buying an additional vehicle for the family, or for your young driver to have to themselves. Like any other big family decision relating to your teen exploring the world, this can be a little overwhelming if you’re new to the process!  That’s why we’re here to help break it down into several easy-to-digest steps for wading through the waters of purchasing a first car for your teens.  Check it out and let us know if there are any other helpful hints and tricks your family has used, and we may included it in an updated column in the future! more A Helpful First Time Car Buying Guide for Teens & Their Families Decide on your budget. Many families will share cars with new drivers, or will pass down an older model as parents upgrade their ride, and as a result will want a budget friendly option. Shop around and test-drive multiple models, and see what type of vehicle that suits your needs is available at different price points. If you need a loan, younger drivers will require a co-signer due to lack of credit history and less stable employment history.  Be sure to talk this out as a family, and decide the best course of action ahead of loan applications. Many loans also come with title fees, a down payment requirement, and other costs, so be sure to do your research on that. Paying for a car up front can save you a lot of money in the long run.  Set a budget that you can comfortably afford to pay via cash or check, and avoid costly interest fees on loans.  Remember to include title fees/transfers, registration costs, and initial insurance payments in that budget. Figure out your daily mileage (home to school and back, school to work and back, average weekend visits with friends) and determine your average gas costs. Choose a car that fits your monthly budget with good gas mileage or higher electric charge mileage. Research average insurance coverage costs and payments for the make/model of cars you’re looking at, and best coverage that ensures your safety and fits within your budget. This can be a monthly, quarterly, or yearly expense depending on payment plan selection. Decide whether you’re going for a new or used ca r.  Most new drivers opt for budget-friendly used cars, but there are pros and cons to each. Weigh both as a family and decide which you prefer. Newer cars are the most advanced options, and have lower associated repair costs, but they do require financing or leasing and more expensive insurance. Older used cars can be a more economical option up front, you’ll have a wider variety of makes/models to choose from, but there is always a higher risk for repairs and maintenance. Used cars from 2013 and higher will fit most any budget and will have ideal safety features such as Anti-Lock Brakes, Traction control, and stability control. Newer cars within the last 3-5 years may also be equipped with Forward-Collision warning, Blind-spot monitoring, Heads-Up Displays, voice activated infotainment systems, and other driver-assist technologies. With the onset of COVID19 pandemic, both New and Used vehicle sales have been impacted, so plan ahead for potential wait times on specific models and features, and consider a flexible shopping plan with multiple selections in case your first choice is out of stock. Do thorough research on your options. After you’ve reached a budget plan, it’s time to consider a few things, such as what will be your daily usage, what features do you need, are you the sole driver or sharing, etc. Think about what kind of car you’ll need: will it be comfortable for long distances, a vehicle with room for multiple passengers, lots of room for athletic equipment, etc.  Make sure all of your car searches factor in the following: safety features, reliability and longevity, fuel economy, tech and digital features, vehicle resale value. Choose a vehicle that has a Good Crash-Test Rating via Kelley Blue Book verified sources (IIHS and NHTSA); these test for roof strength, head restraints and seats, front and side impact damage, roller damage, etc. Read all financial paperwork and sales agreements very carefully. If you’re a younger driver, be sure to bring along a parent or guardian who can help you navigate the agreements and negotiate your best deals. Decide what features are must-haves and what you can do without. Each make and model year of car has different features and amenities. It’s up to you and your lifestyle to find the right match of indispensable electronic and convenience features. Consider things like: Do you need a GPS?  Can you do without satellite radio or do you require digital interfaces?  Will a hybrid, all electric, or gas vehicle be best for your daily driving needs?  Do you need room for equipment such as sports gear, bikes, luggage, school supplies, etc? When you and your new driver are ready to make your purchase, you can give us a ring at Classic Auto Group and we’ll gladly steer you in the right direction of your perfect first car!

The 2023 Carnival MPV is a carryover model with minor interior enhancements to the seat functionality and technology features. The Carnival competes in the Midsize MPV segment, but its combination of SUV styling, exceptional passenger/cargo volume, and practical convenience features also make it uniquely positioned to compete against three-row SUV/crossover models. Check out the blog today for more information on MSRP, trim and options packages, and more! more 2023 Carnival The new SX will include a standard integrated panoramic 12.3-inch digital cluster and 12.3-inch center display, along with a Blind-Spot View Monitor. It also offers an optional dual screen rear seat entertainment system and streaming media capability. The new SX Prestige will include a standard 8-passenger Slide-Flex Seating with second-row center multi-function seat. Optional features include a dual screen rear seat entertainment system and streaming media capability and second-row VIP Lounge Seats to replace the second-row slide-flex seats. 2023 Carnival Pricing 1 – MSRP (excludes $1,335 destination) LX $32,600 LX Seat Package $34,600 EX $38,100 SX $41,300 SX Prestige $45,700 Engine: 3.5L V6 GDI Lambda III Engine: 290 horsepower/262 lb.-ft. of torque and 3,500 lb. towing capacity Fuel Economy 2 – EPA-est. MPG: City: 19 Highway: 26 Combined: 22 Highlighted Kia Drive Wise Advanced Driver Assistance Features 3: Parking Distance Warning – Forward & Reverse Std: LX & LX Seat Package Parking Collision Avoidance – Reverse Std: SX & SX Prestige Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Std: All trims Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist Std: All trims Driver Attention Warning Std: All trims Lane Keeping Assist: Std: All trims Forward Collision Avoidance Assist: Std: X & LX Seat Package – Car/Pedestrian Detection / EX, SX & SX Prestige – Car/Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection Lane Following Assist: Std: All trims Highway Driving Assist Std: EX, SX & SX Prestige Dimensions: Overall Length: 203 in. Overall Width: 89.2 in. Overall Height: 69.9 in. Wheelbase: 121.7 in. 2023 Carnival 2023 Carnival 2023 Carnival 2023 Carnival 2023 Carnival Kia America - about us Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles sold through a network of nearly 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America. PRESS RELEASE POSTED: IRVINE, Calif., June 15, 2022 1 MSRP excludes destination and handling, taxes, title, license fees, options and retailer charges.  Actual prices set by retailer and may vary. 2 Based on EPA estimates.  Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and your vehicle’s condition. 3 These systems are not substitutes for proper and safe driving, parking, and/or backing-up procedures. These systems may not detect every object behind or alongside the vehicle or in the vehicle’s blind spot or direction of travel. Always drive safely and use caution.Press Release Information Accuracy DisclaimerInformation posted in press releases on the Kia Media website was accurate at the time of posting but may be superseded by subsequent releases or other information.

New: 15 Digital Spot and Corporate Giving Initiative with One Warm Coat Highlight the First-Ever Hybrid Model of Kia’s Longest-Running Nameplate in the U.S. IRVINE, Calif., August 17, 2022 – Heralding the arrival of the first-ever Kia Sportage Hybrid, Kia America is expanding its commitment to “Make More Good” with :30-second broadcast and :15-second digital spots and a partnership with One Warm Coat, a non-profit that has provided more than 7.3 million coats to those in need nationwide and is dedicated to promoting environmental sustainability. In April, the introduction of the all-new 2023 Sportage began when Kia partnered with Sea Turtle, Inc. to support the conservation and rehabilitation of the endangered sea turtle population. more The 30-second spot, entitled “ Downpour” follows a Kia Sportage Hybrid as its occupants deliver coats to various points around an urban downtown area as an ominous weather forecast plays on the radio. The driver and passenger of the Kia Sportage Hybrid hang coats on various fences throughout the city along with signs that read, “FREE (for anyone that needs one).” As the torrential rain begins, the driver and passenger witness a man taking a coat off a fence they visited earlier in the day – as many others have clearly done given the small number of coats left hanging on the fence. The spot ends as a voiceover intones, "Have the Power to Make More Good, in the All-New Sportage Turbo Hybrid.” “Kia’s push to sustainable mobility continues with the arrival of the first-ever Kia Sportage Hybrid, and our message is clear: to create a better world we need to take care of not only our planet, but also one another,” said Russell Wager, vice president, marketing, Kia America. “‘Make More Good’ is not just a slogan; it is the driving force behind the introduction of the all-new Kia Sportage and the important charitable initiatives we’ve undertaken. Our partnership with One Warm Coat will extend a helping hand to those in need and hopefully shine a light on noteworthy causes that deserve attention.” One Warm Coat, is a national non-profit that provides free coats to people in need. Hosting up to 5,000 coat drives across the U.S. in a given year, One Warm Coat has provided more than 7.3 million free coats to children and adults in need since 1992. One of the organization’s core values is to promote environmental sustainability by keeping more than one million pounds of clothes out of landfills through the organization’s annual coat drive program. “We are thrilled with the donation from Kia America and grateful that it will enable us to further our mission of providing warm coats to those in need while promoting volunteerism and environmental sustainability,” said Beth Amodio, President & CEO, One Warm Coat. “It is because of the generosity of partners like Kia that we are able to share warmth with children and adults across the country.” Significantly larger, more capable and powerful, and targeted to be more fuel efficient, the fifth-generation Sportage debuts a number of firsts including the first Hybrid powertrain and an available dual panoramic curved digital display. Most Sportage trims will now be assembled in the U.S., alongside the award-winning Telluride, Sorento, and K5 at Kia’s manufacturing plant in West Point, Georgia. Kia America Headquartered in Irvine, California, Kia America continues to top automotive quality surveys and is recognized as one of the 100 Best Global Brands. Kia serves as the "Official Automotive Partner" of the NBA and offers a range of gasoline, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electrified vehicles sold through a network of over 750 dealers in the U.S., including several cars and SUVs proudly assembled in America. Press Release Information Accuracy Disclaimer: Information posted in press releases on the Kia Media website was accurate at the time of posting but may be superseded by subsequent releases or other information.