ChiIL Mama's Adventures at Women Driving Excellence #WDE15 #NissanCAS #AD

I've got to admit, 25 years ago, when I was a struggling writer/actor newly out of college, I worked the Chicago Auto Show for Saab, in what I only half jokingly refer to as my "booth bimbo" days. I had a college degree with honors, yet the market seemed more interested in my face than my brains. And I was one of the lucky ones among the Chicago Auto Show women. We got to wear t-shirts instead of bikinis, like so many of the "models" were required to work in. Still, we had to wear heels and hose with our short shorts and endure thousands of men hitting on us day after day and panning up and down us with giant, late 80s era video cameras. 

Thankfully, 25 years later, "Women's Day" at The Chicago Auto Show doesn't mean token complimentary manicures or more bikini babes. In 2015 women are THE major automotive purchasing force and a force to reckon with, and the women being recognized at the auto show include doctors, lawyers, politicians, police, entrepreneurs and TV producers. And not one of them was required to show up for work in a bikini!

It was our great pleasure to partner up with ChicagonistaLIVE and Nissan for Women Driving Excellence for the second year. Last Tuesday was indeed an enriching, educational, and fun day with informative, inspiring women. I'm also thrilled to say I'm back, working The Auto Show, and getting paid for my writing skills, with Media credentials around my neck, and no short shorts and high heels required!

Smart blonde, Janet Davies, getting honored instead of ogled at The Chicago Auto Show, with emcee, Andrea Metcalf. 



Disclosure: We have been compensated for sharing this information with our readers and covering the event. As always all opinions are our own. Thanks to Women Driving Excellence for inviting ChiIL Mama to partner up with them on this fabulous programing again this year. 

Women Driving Excellence - celebrating women who start, accelerate, fuel, and steer others to excellence. 

Check out our slide show here for our full photo recap from the day including the incredible honorees. Some of our favorite shots are embedded below as well.

Women's Day, Feb. 17, 2015


I couldn't possibly choose a favorite story among the nominees. We all laughed together, and commiserated. I did enjoy Debi Lilly's story of hiring on friends of her little brother as a summer favor, and how that ended up being her golden ticket to work with Oprah. The honorees had empowering stories of overcoming good old boy networks, husbands who step up to help with the kids while the women fly out to pursue their careers, stick shift skills beating the boys for a car parking job, and so many more tiny triumphs and brave chances these women all took to follow their dreams.



Another high point of the day was the medley of tunes from First Date the Musical, sung by the male and female leads. The show is currently playing at Royal George Theatre and highly recommended. We had a chance to catch opening night, and it's hilarious, heartfelt and too true. Check back with ChiIL Live Shows for our full review and video clips from their performance at Women Driving Excellence that will be up shortly.

Dana Parker and Charlie Lubeck (Production Photos Via 'First Date')

Thanks again to Nissan for sponsoring this excellent annual event. And thanks to producers MJ Tam & Beth Rosen (inspiring women in their own right) of the #ChicagonistaLIVE show in coordination with the Chicago Tribune. 

This time last year we were in the market for a new car and I'm excited to admit that we bought that Nissan Rogue I was ogling last year at the Chicago Auto Show. I've been driving it since last March and it's definitely excellent. (No, I didn't get the "ChiIL Mama Rogue" as awesome as it was... I went for the slightly more subtle, gorgeous graphite blue!) We got the 7 seater and it's perfect for occasional visits from the grandparents, carpooling, and taking friends to fun events with us. When Nissan steps up and takes women seriously, and backs some seriously brilliant women, it makes me even prouder to be driving a Rogue.



Thanks also to State Farm. We insure our cars with them, and last year when someone rear ended me and totaled my car at a Kennedy on ramp red light they made the claims process pretty painless. They gave us a rental car while we went car hunting and a decent settlement that went toward the down payment on my sweet new Nissan Rogue! 



"The State Farm Swag Bag Stretch"-- a mini work out lead by emcee and fitness guru, Andrea Metcalf.

2014 Recap:

The ChiIL Mama Nissan Rogue

The Graphite Blue Nissan Rogue

Click here and scroll down to check out our photo filled recap from last year.

We were quite happy that Women Driving Excellence brought back the networking sessions this year. I made quite a few invaluable connections and came home with a stack of business cards. Thanks to Nawbo (National Women's Business Organization) & Epwng (Exclusive Professional Women's Networking Group) for facilitating. The honorees recognition portion was beyond empowering, with a fabulous assortment of women who are all amazing in their fields. We've been to numerous tapings of The ChicagonistaLIVE show, and it's always a treat to see the rapport of the fab four of the Chicagonista team, imparting wit and wisdom.

Check out more honorees below:

Get social: Want a recap of all the stellar live coverage from #WDE15, follow the hashtag on Twitter and Instagram or check out the Women Driving Excellence Facebook Page. 

For flash giveaways, real time photo features, and the first heads up on incoming fun in Chi, IL and beyond, FOLLOW ChiIL Mama (family friendly) and ChiIL Live Shows (adult) on line and social media.

Disclosure: We have been compensated for sharing this information with our readers and covering the event. As always all opinions are our own. Thanks to Women Driving Excellence for inviting ChiIL Mama to partner up with them on this fabulous programing again this year. 

LAST DAY TODAY: Family Day Chicago Auto Show 2013 #CAS13

It's your last chance to hit the 2013 Chicago Auto Show.   Today is Family Day and since CPS is IN session on President's Day for the first time, it may be an excellent chance to explore without crowds.   If you're lucky enough to have littles in a different school system with a day off, come on down with the family.

Family Day Fun at CAS13

ChiIL Mama recommends ChiILin' out with Blackhawks fun in The Chevy Family Fun Zone!   ONE GOAL!!   

We also highly recommend checkin' out the life sized hot wheels Camaro and winning a little one in Chevy's rockin' launcher race.  

Get stoked for DreamWorks new release, Turbo, coming July 2013!   




DIY some button fun--also at Chevy.   We used ours for a great cause--Sagezilla's Girl Scout troupe is raising awareness & funds to Stop Puppy Mills.   So we made rockin' buttons for the cause.

There will also be family events throughout the day and a special guest appearance by a Radio Disney star.  The Toyota display will feature a visit by Shedd Aquarium.   Littles can drive kid sized Jeeps on an indoor track and there are numerous auto related video games (& one soccer game) to play throughout the show.   





You can get great photo ops with supermen & hip hamsters.

Children 6 and under are free; Tickets for children 7-12 are $6.

   

There's something for everyone at CAS13 from hot sports cars and rare classics, to eco-friendly and family friendly vehicles.   We'll be posting lots more original video footage, photo filled features, and reviews in the coming months.   Follow ChiIL Mama's adventures under #greatcarhunt as we find a replacement for my beloved RAV4.

Check out our huge, photo filled recaps & coverage of The  2013 Chicago Auto Show right here.

FUTURE TEC--OK-It's not a Holodeck, but close:

Click here to check out the brand new 360Revo Virtual Tour debuting TODAY.    It’s a look outside AND inside the new Stingray!

GREEN SCENE:

2013 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW ATTENDEES ARE TREATED TO MORE THAN 40 ECO-FRIENDLY CHOICESDrivers who Purchase Eco-friendly Vehicles are Eligible for Tax Incentives

The 2013 Chicago Auto Show features 45 electric, hybrid, and diesel vehicles that could save Illinois drivers thousands in fuel costs over the life of the vehicle and make buyers eligible for federal and state tax credits.

The U.S. government offers tax rebates for buyers of electric, range-extended electric, plug-in-hybrid, hybrid and diesel vehicles. The rebates are as follows:

• Electric vehicles (EVs) purchased in or after 2010 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $7,500.
• Plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles (PHEVs) purchased in or after 2010 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $7,500.
• Hybrids purchased or placed into service after December 31, 2005 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $3,400.
• Some diesels purchased or placed into service after December 31, 2005 may be eligible for a federal income tax credit of up to $3,400.

The state of Illinois provides various tax incentives for owning an eco-friendly vehicle, and manufacturers are taking advantage of relaying this message to consumers. The Illinois Alternative Fuels Rebate Program offers Illinois residents a $4,000 rebate for EVs and plug-in hybrids, as well as other vehicles powered with alternative fuels.

Another benefit of switching to an electric, hybrid or diesel vehicle in Illinois is that some local municipalities, such as Oak Park, offer vehicle stickers at no charge and allow plug-in vehicle owners to park for free at village-owned parking meters, garages and lots. The state of Illinois also offers a discounted fee of $18 for electric vehicle registration within the state - compared to the standard fee of $99 for conventional fueled vehicles.

"Since 2010, we have seen an increase in the purchases of eco-friendly vehicles in Illinois," said Dave Sloan, president of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association and Chicago Auto Show general manager. "This year, the Chicago Auto Show has more than 40 hybrid and EV models on the show floor, which is the most we've seen from the manufacturers over the last few years. This gives Illinois residents a variety of options that would allow them to qualify for both state and federal tax rebates and incentives."

At the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, many automakers were eager to discuss how their EV, hybrid and clean-diesel vehicles are the future of eco-friendly technology.

Gary Altman, chief engineer of General Motors, small cars sector, says it is all about timing for General Motors. "We feel it is right in the marketplace right now, to offer a vehicle that would give you technology, performance and efficiency." Altman went on to discuss GM's newest eco-friendly model, the Chevy Cruze Turbo Clean Diesel. "Cruze is known for its efficiency. With this application, with the 2-liter turbo clean-diesel, we'll be able to give you the performance alongside that."
The Ford Fusion Energi plug-in is another example of an EV vehicle featured at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show. "It gets 21 miles in all electric mode, and then in gas plus electric it gets 620 miles - which is a best in class range for a sedan right now," says Sean Lightner, program manager of electrified vehicles for Ford.

The types of eco-friendly vehicles on the floor of the Chicago Auto Show include:

• Pure Electric (EVs - such as Nissan Leaf & Ford Focus Electric)
• Extended Range Electric (such as Chevrolet Volt & Fisker Karma)
• Plug-In Hybrid (PHEVs - such as Toyota Prius & Ford Fusion Energi)
• Hybrid (HEVs - such as Honda Accord & Lexus CT 200h)
• Diesel (Chevrolet Cruze Diesel & Audi A3)

Fun Ford facts for Presidents' Day:

About the Chicago Auto Show
The Chicago Auto Show is the largest on the continent, spanning more than 1 million square feet of production, concept, and exotic vehicle exhibit space. In addition to hosting multiple world and North American vehicle debuts, the Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity raises more than $2 million annually for 18 worthy Chicago organizations in a single night. The 2013 public show will be February 9-18. For more information please visit ChicagoAutoShow.com or Facebook.com/ChicagoAutoShow.

About The Chicago Automobile Trade Association
Founded in 1904, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is the nation's oldest and largest metropolitan dealer organization. It is comprised of about 400 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group's dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information please visit CATA.info.

The 2013 Chicago Auto Show is officially sanctioned by the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers. Founded in Paris in 1919, it is known as the Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles.

AMERICA'S FIRST MOTOR VEHICLE RACE RECREATED WITH ELECTRIC VEHICLES Friday at Chicago Auto Show #CAS13 #gogreeen

Electric Vehicles Depart from Chicago Auto Show, Re-trace Course to Evanston 

WHAT: For the first time in more than 118 years, America's first Motor Vehicle Race will be recreated - with a slight twist. This time around with electric vehicles only, the Electrified Vehicle Rally will depart from the Chicago Auto Show and re-trace the same route from the original 1895 Chicago Times-Herald motor race.

WHEN: Friday, February 15; Depart at 10 a.m. from McCormick Place / Chicago Auto Show

WHERE:  McCormick Place; Gate 41 in the West Building (corner of Indiana and Cermak; park on Indiana from 9:30-10 a.m.) 

SCHEDULE:

• 8-8:30 a.m.       Electric vehicles staged at Gate 41, McCormick Place
• 8:30-10 a.m.     Media opportunities
• 9-10:30 a.m.     Driver familiarity and driver's briefing
• 10 a.m.             Rally begins, drivers depart
• 11 a.m.             Rally stops at Dawes Park, Evanston
• 11:30 a.m.        Rally leaves Dawes Park en-route to Chicago's Center for Green Technology
• 12:30 p.m.        Rally stops at Chicago's Center for Green Technology; tour and lunch provided
• 1:25 p.m.          Rally leaves CCGT, en-route for southern leg
• 2:15 p.m.          Rally returns to McCormick Place

WHY: As electric vehicles become an increasingly popular alternative to gasoline-powered cars, the Electrified Vehicle Rally will recreate the historic Chicago Times-Herald motor race - America's first - this time with all electric vehicles. While electric vehicle rallies are fairly common on the West coast and warmer regions, the Chicago Electrified Vehicle Rally aims to prove these fuel-alternative vehicles fare well even in colder climates.

WHO: The following vehicles will depart from McCormick Place and the Chicago Auto Show:

• Chevrolet Volt
• Fisker Karma
• Ford C-max Energie
• Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
• Nissan Leaf
• Tesla Model F
• Tesla Roadster
• Toyota Prius
• Toyota Prius C
• Toyota Prius PHEV
• Volkswagen Passat TDI
• VIA Motors EREV Silverado
• Smith Electric Delivery Vehicle

ChiILin' Day 2 Friday At Chicago Auto Show #CAS13 #SMP13

Check out ChiIL Mama's original shots from The Chicago Auto Show Press Preview Friday

Come on down to McCormick Place and check out THE largest indoor auto show in North America!

Speed Racer was my first crush.  So, it was fun to meet real life racers, Foust and Deegan with Ford.  They also provided hot breakfast sandwiches and coffee.  Can't go wrong feeding the press!   We recently video taped a Ford Fusion ride along for Drowsey Driver Awareness Week and have some week long test drives in the works.   Check out ChiIL Mama's video by clicking the link above.




Here's Deegan signing a photo for Dugan, my 11 year old son.

One of the highlights of the day was certainly Samaritan's Feet, Buick's philanthropic event that began the morning with a feel good-do good start that can and does change lives.   



We'll have an entire Samaritan's Feet feature including video interviews with Tamera Young of the WNBA's Chicago Sky and others, and our full set of stills up shortly.

Tamera Young of the WNBA's Chicago Sky laces up a new pair of shoes for Jasmine, after washing her feet Friday, February 8, 2013 at the Chicago Auto Show in Chicago, Illinois. Young was participating in an event sponsored by Buick and Samaritan's Feet charity to provide new shoes to 300 young women from Girls in the Game, a Chicago-area organization that promotes sports and fitness among female youth in urban areas. (Photo by Steve Fecht for Buick)

Buick Promotions Manager Chris Ayotte (left center) and Samaritan's Feet Founder and CEO Manny Ohonme (right) wash the feet of two young women before providing them with new shoes (Photo by Steve Fecht for Buick)

Samaritan's Feet Founder and CEO Manny Ohonme (right) gives a high-five to Eloisa after washing her feet and providing her with a new pair of shoes (Photo by Steve Fecht for Buick)

It was fun to connect with fellow blogger & mama to 4 (including twins!), Natasha Nicholes @hfofnicholes, at Toyota.    She looks so natural & at home with their back drop, they ought to hire her as a model! 


We also took a test drive in a new 2014 RAV4, to see how it compares to our original 1996 RAV4--the first year they ever made them.  Yes, these cars have longevity, dependability and staying power!   On the new RAV4's they've tucked the spare tire under, and eliminated the 3rd row seating option, and the interior is roomier.   We also dug Toyota's custom Bears paint job!   Follow their hashtag #letsgoplaces. 




TO DO AT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW:   Take a Toyota ride along--it's worth the wait.   You'll leave with a nice ice scraper/snow brush--useful swag to be sure!   You can also record a video for their web site and/or green screen yourself into a photo somewhere fun.   I picked the red carpet and paparazzi.  Toyota's indoor track is a hoot, with personalized messages that pop up along the route!  





TO DO AT THE CHICAGO AUTO SHOW:   GM is rockin' the interactive exhibits in their space from Chevy to Cadillac.  

 

Don't miss the outdoor Cadillac test drives, down two floors, and the classic cars and Chevy Fun Zone, including Blackhawks fun--main level but hiding across the Auto Show from the GM hub.







There are loads of video game style drives to try out, complete with a high score board, a Hot Wheels launcher track where you can win a special edition Chicago Auto Show 2013 cobalt blue Camaro, and even a custom button bar where you can express yourself DIY style.   



Smartphone dying?   ChiIL out.  It's not a problem.  Chevy's got you covered.   They have outlets if you're organized and brought your own charger, and even a variety of Smartphone cords if you didn't!



Friend and fellow blogger +Johanna Cook  @mommacuisine takes a few minutes to ChiIL out with +Bonnie Kenaz-Mara  @chiILMama at one of Chevy's FREE Chill Charging Stations.



We closed out the day with a fabulous panel on Women in Social Media and marketing to women, arranged by my friends and colleagues at Chicagonista, MJ Tam and Beth Rosen.  

  

It was a pleasure to hear GM's inimitable Mary Henige, Director, Social & Digital Communications.   This gregarious mother of two began the day washing children's feet and mentoring, and ended with wise words as a panel speaker and influencer.    



We'll have our Samaritan's Feet video interview with Mary up shortly.   We had an enjoyable evening of conversation the night before, as we shared a table at a GM dinner at Chicago Firehouse Restaurant

The Chicago Auto Show is open daily through February 18th.   Check out their main site to buy tickets, check out daily special events, and more.   

About the Chicago Auto Show The Chicago Auto Show is the largest on the continent, spanning more than 1 million square feet of production, concept, and exotic vehicle exhibit space. In addition to hosting multiple world and North American vehicle debuts, the Chicago Auto Show's First Look for Charity raises more than $2 million annually for 18 worthy Chicago organizations in a single night. The 2013 public show is February 9-18. For more information please visit ChicagoAutoShow.com or Facebook.com/ChicagoAutoShow.