Check out this Gift Guide for Holiday Giving

 

Looking for great gift ideas for that automotive enthusiast you know? Check out this gift guide, with items organized by price point for convenience. Happy holidays!! Gifts $25 and Under Philips Headlight Restoration Kit—All modern vehicles use polycarbonate or acrylic headlight lenses, replacing glass lens and providing more debris impact protection. Over time UV light and dirt creates a yellow haze affecting the performance of the previously crystal-clear lens. Priced at just $19 this kit and a bit of work will remove this haze and restore nighttime driving visibility. The Philips Headlight Restoration kit also includes a two-year UV protection warranty.

Dill Digital Tire Pressure Gauge—Assuming your vehicle is aligned, proper inflation is the most vital key to getting the most life out of your tires and the best handling and more importantly dry and wet braking performance. Maintaining correct pressures, usually listed on a plate affixed to the driver’s side door jamb, also helps overall efficiency whether you’re driving an EV, hybrid, or internal combustion engine vehicle. At just $15.95 this is an affordable and easy way to check tire pressures, ideally every two weeks and at the very least when seasonal temperatures rise and fall. 212 Performance Mechanic Touch Screen Gloves Medium—Here is a great $21.95-per-pair gift for the do-it-yourselfer or the casual owner needing to keep hands clean while checking fluid levels, filling the fuel tank or charging the EV, or as noted above checking tire pressures. An extra bonus and convenience are the touchscreen-compatible pads on thumb, index and middle finger allow you to use your smartphone or tablet without removing the gloves.  Gifts $50 and Under CTEK US 0.8 Battery Maintainer—Vehicles today are full of always-on electronics and memory functions that create parasitic electricity draw on your battery. If completely drained this can ruin your battery. Fortunately Tire Rack recently added CTEK’s product lineup to its portfolio of battery chargers and maintainers (Tire Rack also carries Braille and Battery Tender products). This compact and affordable maintainer is perfect for occasional-use vehicles or any time a daily driver may be in storage, even for a few weeks. At only $47.99 CTEK’s most compact 12V charger is an inexpensive solution that ensures your vehicle is ready to go when you need it.

Philips Xperion 6000 Line LED Work Light—This handheld and rechargeable LED light provides multiple light modes from 150 to 300 lumens and a 110-degree broad illumination swath as well as a 120-lumen spotlight beam. These features and a strong magnet and 360-degree rotating hook provide more versatility than average flashlights. It recharges in 3.5 hours via its USB-C connection, and it is impact, solvent, and water resistant. It’s a great $50 helper for the garage, car, or home. Gorilla Extendable Power Wrench Set 1721—Here is a quality hardened steel ½-inch drive extendable power wrench designed to fit practically all lug nuts and bolts used on today's vehicles. Extends from 14 to 22 inches and provides added power and leverage to help loosen stubborn lug nuts or bolts. The set includes two dual ½-inch drive sockets that fit 17mm, 19mm (3/4"), 21mm (13/16"), and 23mm (7/8") bolt head. At just $29 this is a great upgrade compared to OEM lug wrenches.

Watch for Scams this Holiday Season

 

A scammer creates a fake listing on an online marketplace or lookalike website for a retailer you know. You buy the perfect gift for your loved one—and then you never receive it. After some time passes, you reach out to the seller with frustration only to find they’ve vanished.

 

 

Helpful tip: Before you make an online purchase, check the website for suspicious misspellings or low-quality images. Research customer reviews.

 

 

Gift cards are a popular present—and a favorite scammer tool because they’re difficult to trace. If a seller asks you to pay with a gift card, end the transaction immediately. And if you’re buying someone a gift card for the holidays, make sure it’s from a reputable place.

 

 

Helpful tip: Pay with a credit card whenever possible and check your statement regularly.

 

 

If you’re selling online, you might ship items but never receive payment. A scammer might send you a fake payment receipt so you’ll ship before getting paid. Also watch out if they ask to pay with a gift card, wire transfer, or other non-traditional method.

 

 

Helpful tip: Wait until you’ve received payment before shipping. And proceed with caution if an offer on your item is too good to be true.

2025 Mazda CX-5: Top Seller for Many Good Reasons

 Mazda’s CX-5 compact crossover has been its best-selling vehicle in recent years; it outsold the marque’s next three top sellers combined in 2023. For the 2025 model year, the CX-5 brings back the entry-level 2.5 S trim, creating a starting price point under $30,000.

Features
The CX-5 adds two USB-C ports for front-seat occupants, the revived 2.5 S trim and it loses the 2.5 S Premium trim. The 2.5 S models feature a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 187 horsepower and 186 pounds-feet of torque. Turbo trims feature a turbocharged version of the engine that makes 227 hp and 310 pounds-feet on regular gas, or 256 hp and 320 pounds-feet on premium.

Both engines are linked to a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. With the base four-cylinder, Mazda reports the 2025 CX-5 gets an EPA-rated 26/30/28 mpg city/highway/combined; the Turbo got 22/27/24 mpg.

Pricing
The 2025 Mazda CX-5 is priced at: 

• 2.5 S: $29,990
• 2.5 S Select: $31,320
• 2.5 S Preferred: $32,670
• 2.5 S Carbon Edition: $34,020
• 2.5 S Premium Plus: $36,620
• Carbon Turbo: $38,420
• Turbo Premium: $39,220
• Turbo Signature: $42,020

2026 Infiniti QX60: Great SUV with Enhanced Features

 

The 2026 Infiniti QX60 is more appealing than ever, with updated styling, lots of tech features and elegant trims. It is priced competitively in the luxury SUV market, and features options such as captain’s chairs and a premium audio system, and spacious cargo capacity and strong towing power. Its fuel efficiency is good for a vehicle of its size, and all told, it’s a good selection for buyers seeking luxury, technology and versatility.

The QX60 gets a pleasant refresh inspired by Infiniti’s “Artistry in Motion” design profile. Exterior enhancements include a redesigned grille with an illuminated 3D Infiniti emblem, segmented piano key LED running lights, and a cleaner, lower rear fascia for a wider stance. This new design produces a luxury presence that is modernized.

Trim Levels & Price

The 2026 QX60 has four trim levels - Pure, Luxe, Sport and Autograph.

• Pure: Starts at $51,200 (front-wheel drive), $53,200 with AWD. Standard features include 20-inch wheels, dual 12.3-inch screens with Google built-in, TailorFit seating, wireless charging and five USB ports.
• Luxe: Around $56,800 (FWD) or $58,800 (AWD). Adds a 3D Around View Monitor, Klipsch speaker audio, ProPILOT Assist 1.1, climate-controlled front seats and heated second-row seats.
• Sport: Priced from $61,700 (AWD only). The first-ever Sport trim has a bold appearance package with gloss-black 20 in. wheels, dark trim, second-row captain’s chairs and dusk blue two-tone upholstery.
• Autograph: The top-tier luxury trim starts at $66,150 (AWD only), featuring massaging front seats, semi-aniline quilted leather, a Klipsch Reference Premiere speaker system and a color head up display.

Powertrain & Capability

The QX60 features Infiniti’s turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine, rated for 268-hp and 286 pounds-feet of torque, linked to a nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is optional for most trims, and standard on Sport and Autograph trims. The QX60 has a top-rated 6,000 lb. towing capacity.

Audio & Infotainment:

All trims include dual touchscreens (InTouch infotainment with Google built-in), voice control via Google Assistant, Apple CarPlay / Android Auto compatibility, mobile WiFi and a large 12.3 in. central display.

Cargo Capacity:

• Behind third row: 14.5 cu ft
• With third row folded: 41.6 cu ft
• Fully flat (2nd & 3rd rows folded): 75.4 cu ft

What to Do with Daylight Saving Time

 

Although it’s observed by most of the country, the practice of moving the clocks forward and back for daylight saving time (DST) has costs that have some people, including the U.S. President, calling for an end to the system. Though polls have shown a majority of Americans are in agreement with keeping one consistent time throughout the year, things get tricky when choosing which time we should keep year-round. Let’s take a look at the tradition of daylight saving, the modern-day costs it poses, and the implications for businesses.

Why do we change our clocks in the first place? Although it’s a popular one, the belief that DST was implemented to help farmers is incorrect, and ironically, those in the agriculture industry have historically been some of the most vocal critics of the practice. What we know today as DST actually started as a way to save energy during times of war and was thus referred to as “war time”. Germany was the first country to utilize it in 1916 to save precious fuel (and hence, money) during World War I, and other countries soon followed suit. The practice was revived during World War II and then made a mainstay in the U.S. with the Uniform Time Act of 1966, which established uniform start and end times for DST each year. This act also allowed states to opt out of the process altogether and abide by standard time year-round – a right exercised by most of Arizona, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and several other U.S. territories. Since it was made law, support for changing clocks has varied over the years, and there have been various efforts to either make DST permanent throughout the year or abolish it altogether.

What it costs Let’s go back to farmers’ main issue with the switching of the clocks: Living things naturally follow the sun, not man-created time. Changing the time we follow is, therefore, simply hard on the circadian rhythm and can have dire health consequences. Following the “spring forward” each March, there are increased instances of heart attacks , strokes, car accidents, overdoses, suicides, and workplace injuries, all posing significant additional health costs. Even if physical injury is avoided, loss of sleep alone is linked to reduced productivity and more frequent mistakes. All in all, one research company estimated the economic cost of DST across the United States is $672.02 million annually due to accidents and additional health risks. While the annual return to standard time gives back that coveted extra hour of sleep (and is easier on the body’s internal clock), it also typically means some losses for businesses. When clocks fall back, businesses see a drop in spending. A 2017 report found “shoppers spend 3.5% less in grocery stores, gas stations and at retailers” in the month following the time change.

Why businesses love DST If the majority of Americans and health professionals prefer standard time, why are there so many proposals to move permanently to DST? The answer is easy: DST is good for business. With that extra hour of daylight in the evening, people are more likely to go shopping, dine at restaurants, go golfing, use more fuel, have more barbecues, and overall just spend more money. With that, it’s easy to see why businesses might prefer to keep DST over standard time when “lock the clock” discussions arise. The Sunshine Protection Act would make DST permanent across the U.S, and any states currently on standard time only would be allowed to stay on it. Though it passed the Senate in 2022, it has not been voted on by the House, and several states’ already-approved legislation regarding time changes is on hold unless it passes. The changing of the clocks has a big impact on businesses and consumers each year, and with the Sunshine Protection Act reintroduced in January, there are countless angles for business journalists to pursue to localize this story or approach it from a different beat.

Discovering Radford, Va.: A Hidden Gem in the New River Valley

 Nestled in the heart of southwestern Virginia, Radford offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant college-town energy. This charming city, home to Radford University, sits along the banks of the New River and provides an ideal base for exploring the stunning Appalachian region.

Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures

New River Trail State Park

The crown jewel of Radford's outdoor offerings, the New River Trail State Park stretches for 57 miles along a former Norfolk and Western Railway line. This multi-use trail is perfect for hiking, biking and horseback riding, offering breathtaking views of the New River and surrounding mountains. The trail passes through historic towns, crosses impressive trestle bridges and provides access to numerous fishing spots.

Bisset Park

Located right in the heart of Radford, Bisset Park offers 103 acres of recreational space along the New River. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, boat launches and excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. During summer months, the park comes alive with outdoor concerts and community events.

Claytor Lake State Park

Just a short drive from downtown Radford, Claytor Lake State Park offers swimming, fishing and boating on the 4,500-acre lake. The park's hiking trails wind through diverse ecosystems, and the visitor center provides insights into the area's natural and cultural history.

Historic Charm and Cultural Attractions

Glencoe Museum

Step back in time at the Glencoe Museum, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mansion that showcases life in the New River Valley during the Victorian era. The museum's period rooms and extensive artifact collection offer fascinating glimpses into the region's past.

Downtown Radford

The city's historic downtown district features charming brick buildings housing local shops, restaurants, and art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll along Main Street to discover unique boutiques, antique stores and cozy cafes that reflect the community's welcoming spirit.

Culinary Delights

Radford's dining scene reflects both its Southern roots and college-town atmosphere. From farm-to-table restaurants featuring locally sourced ingredients to casual eateries serving comfort food classics, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss trying the regional specialties, including Virginia ham and locally brewed craft beer.

Annual Events and Festivals

The city hosts numerous events throughout the year that celebrate its culture and community spirit. The Radford Highlanders Festival showcases Scottish heritage with traditional music, dancing and Highland games. It recently was celebrated along with Radford University's homecoming to provide a full weekend of fun activities. Summer brings outdoor concerts to Bisset Park, while fall offers harvest festivals and stunning foliage viewing opportunities.

Getting There and Around

Radford is conveniently located along Interstate 81, making it easily accessible by car. The city is approximately 45 minutes southwest of Roanoke and within driving distance of several major metropolitan areas, including less than a seven-hour drive from metro Atlanta through scenic country. Once in town, most attractions are within walking distance or a short drive from the downtown area.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options range from charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Many visitors enjoy staying near the university campus or downtown area to be close to restaurants and attractions, while others prefer lodging near Claytor Lake for water activities.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, historical exploration or simply a peaceful retreat in the mountains, Radford, Va., offers an authentic taste of Appalachian hospitality and natural beauty. This often-overlooked destination provides the perfect opportunity to experience the best of small-town Virginia while enjoying easy access to some of the region's most spectacular outdoor recreation.