Classic Collision - Lakeville

We remain a proud supporter of SkillsUSA, and several members of our team had the privilege of attending the National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta this week. Thank you, SkillsUSA, for inviting us to be a part of such a meaningful initiative that fosters the growth of future leaders and skilled professionals.

First Lucid conference in the books✔️. Here at Classic Collision, we continue to take bold steps into the future with significant investments in new technology and training as we continuously are working on expanding our Electric Vehicle (EV) and OE Manufacturer Certification footprints. We remain dedicated to staying ahead of the curve and ensuring that our customers, the heart of our business, not only receive the highest-quality service for their cutting-edge vehicles, but also feel confident in their choice of Classic Collision. Visit our website to schedule your appointment today!

Our Oregon team had a blast as a TEAM at the Portland International Speedway earlier this month, rooting on Ryan Ellis. The fast & furious speeds that weekend at the track refueled our team to finish the month strong!

Classic Collision supports our incredible teammates both in and out of our centers. Our OBT West team recently came together to participate in a local 5K race, showcasing our commitment to community involvement and healthy living.

We’re proud to see our colleagues go the extra mile in their work and dedication to positively impacting our community. Thanks to everyone who joined us—your energy and spirit made this event unforgettable!

This weekend, we partnered up with GEICO and the National Auto Body Council to make a difference in one local veteran's life by gifting them with a refurbished vehicle at the USO Experience Weekend in Virginia. Thank you to our vendors and industry partners who made this event successful.

Last Friday, our Colorado team had a beautiful day in Castle Rock at the annual American Family Insurance Golf Tournament, which benefits Denver Kids. Great day, with great partners, for a great cause!

We kicked off Memorial Day weekend alongside our partners at GEICO, PPG Industries, and the National Auto Body Council by gifting two vehicles to two deserving veterans from North Carolina at the NASCAR Hall of Fame. There is no better way to celebrate our veterans than with the gift of reliable transportation to get them back to their everyday lives! Thank you to all our vendors and partners who made this event so successful!

Classic Collision Family! Did you know the second annual NASCAR Day Giveathon begins today? NASCAR and The NASCAR Foundation are teaming up to host a 37-hour online event to raise awareness and funds for nonprofits nationwide. Join us in supporting the Kailee Mills Foundation by clicking the link below.

Kailee Mills Foundation - NASCAR Day Giveathon 2024 Seat belt safety awareness and education, and supporting children injured and hospitalized from a...

Communities and growing our industry are two things Classic Collision stays passionate to support. Last week, we were able to attend the ICAR Auto Draft event hosted at El Camino College in Torrance, CA. The day was filled with local students showcasing their collision excellence and innovative repair techniques while seeking a career in the collision industry. Thank you to the LA ICAR Committee for the invitation and to everyone involved who made this event successful!

Let’s bring back the classics! Cast your vote below for the Classic Collision throwback paint scheme at the Darlington Raceway! Don't miss watching Ryan Ellis, No. 43, bringing back The Days of Thunder!


https://www.darlingtonraceway.com/paintschemefanvote/

This morning our Business Development team kicked off their morning in Newport Beach supporting the WIN - Women's Industry Network scholarship walk.

If you’d like to support Classic Collision help raise scholarship funds designed to encourage women with an interest in our industry to continue and be equipped to stay on that path... Click the link to donate and make sure when you donate you select on behalf of TEAM - CLASSIC COLLISION.

https://go.rallyup.com/win-scholarship/t/b044a1/Team/Details

Classic Collision continues to support our communities in various ways, including last week at the Goleta Knights of Columbus 5th Annual J. William McLafferty Memorial Outing benefiting St. Raphael School in Santa Barbara, CA.

Congratulations to our very own Kayla Williams Clark, VP of Business Development, on her induction to the Collision Repair Education Foundation Board of Trustees. Thank you, Kayla, for your leadership and contributions to not only our Classic family but the industry as a whole.

CREF is thrilled to introduce Kayla Williams Clark VP of Business Development at Classic Collision as the newest member of its Board of Trustees.

Kayla's dedication to the industry has been instrumental in bolstering school support and enrollment efforts. She has provided invaluable feedback to recruiting teams, emphasizing the significance of engaging future students within the collision repair industry.

We look forward to working with Kayla and witnessing the impactful contributions another great leader can make in advancing the future of collision repair.

Discover more about Kayla's impactful initiatives here: https://collisionrepaireducationfoundation.org/cref-welcomes-kayla-williams-clark-to-board-of-trustees/

For another year in a row, Classic Collision and Ultimate Auto Glass & Electronics sponsored the Atlanta I-CAR golf outing benefiting Collision Repair Education Foundation last week at Bradshaw Farms in Georgia. We’re privileged to have another year teeing off with fellow industry partners to support our local collision repair education programs. Here’s to driving success on and off the course.

Cast your vote for Classic Collision Augusta to win Cyber City's Best Community's Choice Award! Let's show our support for our Augusta Team, which is making a positive impact in our community. Every vote counts, so let's rally together and help them win this year's award!

2024 Cyber City's Best Community's Choice Awards Users who vote in 25 or more categories will be automatically entered to win a $250 gift card!

Classic Collision continues to give back to our industry and communities. Last week, we were able to donate uniforms to Wenatchee Valley Technical School in Washington through the Collision Repair Education Foundation, supporting students in their collision repair journey. Together, we make a positive impact on the future of the collision industry!

Spring Daylight Savings Tip:

You know them. Potholes: The bane of every Minnesotans driving experience. And because we’re losing an hour of both sleep and sunlight during March, spotting a pothole during your dark morning commute becomes even more difficult. The best you can do is to slow down, use your headlights, keep an eye on the road, and watch out for any swerving vehicles in front of you (follow their cue, just more tactfully). If you happen to hit (fall into) a pothole that damages your car, be mindful that your car may no longer be safe to drive. Call Crystal Lake Automotive and we’ll check it out and make any necessary repairs. 952.435.9800

February 3, 1948 – The first automotive tail fins hit the road!

General Motors design chief Harley Earl was an inspired man after gazing upon a twin-tailed P-38 Lightning fighter plane of WWII. By borrowing elements of the plane’s design he ushered in the tail fin era of the automobile, starting with the 1948 Cadillac, the first of which left the factory on this day in 1948.

https://automotivehistory.org/february-3-1948-the-first-tail-fins/

February 3, 1948 - The first automotive tail fins hit the road - This Day in Automotive History When 1948 Cadillacs began rolling off the assembly line on this day of that year, they featured a new design element, tail fins.

January 17, 1953 – The Chevrolet Corvette Debuts

America’s sports car, the Chevrolet Corvette, made its public debut at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City during GM’s Motorama on this day in 1953. After much fanfare at the event, GM rushed the two-seater into production. With design by Harley Earl and his special projects team, the Corvette became the first all fiberglass bodied sports car mass produced in the United States.

To build the Corvettes, GM set up a temporary assembly line at an old pick up station in Flint, Michigan. The first 300 Corvettes, each hand built, began rolling off the assembly line on June 30 of that year. All 300 produced for 1953 had identical characteristics, each being a polo white convertible with a red interior and black top. A Blue Flame six cylinder sat under the hood connected to a two-speed automatic transmission.

Are you seeking an Auto Body Technician position working within a locally-owned company that is highly involved in the communities we serve? If you are friendly, outgoing, and believe in consistently representing your team to the highest standards - perhaps Crystal Lake Automotive is right for you.

Contact Todd at 952.217.6162 to arrange an interview. Or apply online at www.Crystallakeautomotive.com

Are you seeking an Auto Body Technician position working within a locally-owned company that is highly involved in the communities we serve? If you are friendly, outgoing, and believe in consistently representing your team to the highest standards - perhaps Crystal Lake Automotive is right for you.

What we offer:
• Excellent wages
• Health insurance package
• Excellent retirement package
• Paid collision classes

Contact Todd at 952.217.6162 to arrange an interview. Or apply online at www.Crystallakeautomotive.com

This Date In Automotive History:

Carroll Shelby, legendary race car driver, team owner and car builder, was born on this day January 11, 1923. Though he is perhaps best known for his role in the creation of the Shelby AC Cobra and the Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s, the history of Carroll Shelby covers so much more. His career spanned decades of racing, engineering and production feats.

Shelby set 16 international speed records at Bonneville Speed Flats in a modified Austin Healy, set the Mount Washington hill climb record and Sports Illustrated name him driver of the year in 1956 and 1957. However, Shelby once said the biggest achievement of his racing career was winning the 1959 24 Hours at Le Mans with teammate Roy Salvadori. During that race he took notice of the outstanding performance of the English AC Ace.

Due to health concerns, Shelby retired from racing in October 1959, but his contributions to the track were far from over. He soon started Shelby-American, which imported specially built AC cars, like the ones from Le Mans. However, he asked the English auto builder to alter the vehicle for import. While a Briston straight-6 would normally offer power, Shelby desired to stuff a Ford V8 under the hood. The company obliged, making the necessary alternations. The result was the first Shelby AC Cobra, which debuted in 1962. (photographed)

While the Cobra became a mainstay of the company, Shelby had his hand in numerous other projects. He became heavily involved in the development of the Ford GT40. This very car would go on to become the first American designed winner of Le Mans. In the same era, the Mustang-based Shelby GT350 and GT500 began rolling out of his factory. To this day those are among Shelby’s most sought after creations by muscle car collectors.
Source: Automotivehistory.org

Winter Reminder Of Safe Winter Driving:
PREPARE FOR THE TRIP
Maintain Your Car: Check battery, tire tread, and windshield wipers, keep your windows clear, put no-freeze fluid in the washer reservoir, and check your antifreeze.
Have On Hand: flashlight, jumper cables, abrasive material (sand, kitty litter, even floor mats), shovel, snow brush and ice scraper, warning devices (like flares) and blankets. For long trips, add food and water, medication and cell phone.
Stopped or Stalled? Stay in your car, don’t overexert, put bright markers on antenna or windows and shine dome light, and, if you run your car, clear exhaust pipe and run it just enough to stay warm.
Plan Your route: Allow plenty of time (check the weather and leave early if necessary), be familiar with the maps/ directions, and let others know your route and arrival time.
Practice Cold Weather Driving!
* During the daylight, rehearse maneuvers slowly on ice or snow in an empty lot.
* Steer into a skid.
* Know what your brakes will do: stomp on antilock brakes, pump on non-antilock brakes.
* Stopping distances are longer on water-covered ice and ice.
* Don’t idle for a long time with the windows up or in an enclosed space.
PROTECT YOURSELF
* Buckle up and use child safety seats properly.
* Never place a rear-facing infant seat in front of an air bag.
* Children 12 and under are much safer in the back seat.
PREVENT CRASHES
* Slow down and increase distances between cars.
* Keep your eyes open for pedestrians walking in the road.
* Avoid fatigue – Get plenty of rest before the trip, stop at least every three hours, and rotate drivers if possible.
* Drugs and alcohol never mix with driving. If you are planning to drink, designate a sober driver.
Information provided by NHTSA & OSHA

May your Christmas wishes come true...Your friends at Crystal Lake Automotive.

This week in automotive history:

Count Gaston de Chasseloup-Laubat of France set the first official automobile land speed record on this week in 1898 when he completed the flying kilometer in an electric Jeantaud in 57 seconds, an average speed of 63.13 km/h (39 mph). The record was set during a competition in France hosted by a relatively new magazine, La France Automobile. The record would kickoff a fierce speed contest between Chasseloup-Laubat and another car builder and driver, Camille Jenatzy of Belgium.
Source: https://automotivehistory.org/

Now Hiring: Auto Body Technician

Crystal Lake Automotive is seeking an Auto Body Technician to grow with us. Enjoy working in a clean, pleasant environment that emphasizes mutual respect and kindness towards each other. Great benefits package offered.

Apply online at https://www.crystallakeautomotive.com/employment/ or email your resume to Jim Siegried at [email protected].

Great job, state CHAMPS Cougars!

May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy, love and gratitude.

Thank you to all that have served to keep our country safe - your friends at Crystal Lake Automotive.

Sneak Peek at "New" 1967 Muscle Car!
On this day in 1966 members of the press were invited to a special General Motors event to meet the car that would go head to head with the Ford Mustang, the Chevrolet Camaro. The car had already been rolling off assembly lines since August 11, but this was the first time anyone outside GM got an up close look at the “Small vicious animal that eats Mustangs,” as described by Chevrolet general manager Pete Estes. The car would officially go on sale as a 1967 model about two weeks later for $2,466, on September 29. Source: https://automotivehistory.org/

August 26, 1959 - on this date in history: In part due to Egypt’s nationalization of the Suez Canal in 1956, much of Europe was facing massive fuel shortages. In response, Sir Leonard Lord, head of British Motor Corporation (BMC), set out to build a small, fuel efficient car to compete with the German cars that currently lead that market. His efforts resulted in BMC launching the Mark I Mini on this day in 1959.

Production of the original Mini continued until 2000, at which point BMW purchased the marque. By then, some 5.3 million Minis had left production facilities. BMW began producing a new line of Minis in 2003, which has now become a full line of vehicles. Source, automotivehistory.org

On this week in 1967, AMC issued a press release, pictured above, officially announcing the 1968 AMC Javelin. The vehicle would help AMC shed its commuter car appearance and as it jumped into the pony car market dominated by the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. When The Dick Teague designed Javelin hit showrooms about a month later, on September 26, the base model retailed for $2,743, about $21,500 today. If you opted for the base hardtop Mustang you would pay $2,567 or you get a Camaro for $2,450. Source, automotivehistory.org

Are you seeking a position working within a locally-owned company that is highly involved in the communities we serve? If you are friendly, outgoing and believe in consistently representing your team to the highest standards - perhaps Crystal Lake Automotive is right for you.

Crystal Lake Automotive is seeking a Automotive Parts Associate to grow with us. Join our pleasant work environment that emphasizes mutual respect and kindness towards each other.

Ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills, (both written and verbal) - will excel at performing the following responsibilities:
• Obtain & manage inventory
• Maintain inventory records
• Communicate with Production Manager for scheduling purposes
• Issue parts to proper technician

Accuracy and attention to detail is needed.

We offer an attractive wage dependent on your related experience.
Benefits include: health, dental, life, short and long term disability
insurance, vacation time, 401K and profit sharing.

Contact Todd at 952.217.6162 to arrange an interview.
Or apply online at www.Crystallakeautomotive.com

Happy birthday America; the greatest country in the world. Have a wonderful holiday weekend everyone.

This week in automotive history 1966: Ford GT40 wins 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.

When the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans came to an end on this day in 1966 it was a Ford GT40 in first, second and third place, marking the first time an American automobile won the race. With the three Mk. II Fords so far out in front of the rest of the field during the last pit stop, Henry Ford II decided to stage a publicity photo at the finish line, having all three cross nearly simultaneously. The leading #1 car driven by Ken Miles and Denny Hulme crossed the finish line next to the #2 car driven by Bruce McLaren and Chris Amon, with the #5 GT40 trailing shortly behind. The #1 and #2 cars had both completed 360 laps but the #2 car started farther back, meaning even though they tied, the #2 car covered more ground and therefore received the the first place trophy. Ken Miles, who was going for the endurance racing triple crown of Daytona, Sebring and Le Mans, was disheartened when he learned he lost the race due to a publicity stunt, saying, “I’m disappointed, of course, but what are you going to do about it.” - Source Automotivehistory.org

Thanks Dad for "letting" me help! Happy Fathers Day!