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Jeep is a huge contender when it comes to technology features. Not only are they fun to use, but they also help keep drivers safe while on the road. With so much to offer, it can be overwhelming not knowing which tech to choose. To makes things simpler, we've compiled a list of the must-have tech for your next Jeep below. more 1. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto This wouldn't be a tech list without acknowledging the two big players in the mobile arena. Jeep partners with both to make sure that its customers will always be able to connect their smartphones to their vehicles, and the sheer ease in which you can do this is astounding. Hands-free apps make navigating, answering calls, and listening to your favorite music a safe and enjoyable experience. 2. Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control Have you and your passenger ever disagreed about the temperature in a vehicle? It's a common problem and Jeep has the solution. Dual-zone automatic temperature control allows you and your passenger to select temperatures that are comfortable for each of you, and those temperatures are maintained throughout the ride. Essentially, two microclimates are created and sustained, so you'll no longer have to dread losing the temperature battle again. 3. Heated Steering Wheel, Front Seats, and Mirrors In addition to the dual-zone climate control, Jeep also offers a heated steering wheel and front seats for those unexpected chilly mornings. Another great feature is the heated exterior mirrors. Frost and cold weather are no match for Jeep's superior heating technology. 4. ParkSense Rear Park Assist System and Camera If you're like most people, you may have difficulties backing into a parking space or parallel parking. With Jeep's ParkSense rear park assist system, you'll be backing up like a pro. The rear bumper is equipped with sonar sensors that alert you to potential obstacles and will sound an alert if one is detected when you're in reverse. The rear backup camera will make your life easier by showing you what's behind your vehicle on the Uconnect touch-screen every time you shift into reverse. Hidden hazards will be a worry of the past with this safety technology. 5. Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection Jeep is dedicated to keeping drivers safe on the road, so it's equipped its vehicles with technology to help prevent collisions. Radar sensors located on Jeeps can sense other vehicles and alert you when one is in your blind spot, keeping you from accidentally hitting it. Rear cross path detection is helpful when backing out of a parking spot. If something is behind you, your vehicle will let you know. Jeep has the reputation of creating rugged vehicles, and it also has ample technology to make any ride incredibly comfortable. Stop by for a test drive today, and feel the difference that driving a Jeep will make. The smooth ride, coupled with the latest tech, will make you wonder why anyone would ever drive anything else. Image via Flickr by Crown Star Images used under CC BY 2.0

The 2019 Jeep compass has many features to make your next adventure more enjoyable. One aspect that combines comfort with functionality is all of the technology in the vehicle. It is a mix of entertainment and driving tools sure to make you smile on your next trip. New Inventory more Stay Connected on the Road A road trip does not mean you have to disconnect from the outside world. The Jeep Compass offers different features that allow drivers and their passengers to stay connected while on the road. Apple users may connect through Apple CarPlay to use specific apps and enjoy hands-free calling. Android users have Android Auto that allows them to use a variety of apps as well as voice texting and hands-free calling. The standard UConnect system also gives drivers the ability to connect with their car. Through the app, owners can unlock the vehicle, start it, and even sound the horn from outside their Compass. Inside the vehicle, UConnect is the main entertainment and information system. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect to it. Drivers can use the controls mounted on the steering wheel to adjust music, answer calls, and interact with the car without taking their eyes off the road. Navigation Beyond staying connected on the road, navigation is a standard part of the UConnect 4C system. The Send 'n' Go system allows owners to look up a location on their phone. From there, the information transfers to the car which displays the distance and route maps on the screen. Turn Your Compass into a Private Concert Hall The Compass comes with a standard six-speaker audio system for all trim levels. Transform your Compass into a private concert hall on wheels. Upgrade to the Beats Premium Audio system that adds three speakers to the car. It also includes a 12-channel amplifier and a booming subwoofer. This upgrade is an option for all trim levels except for the Compass Sport and Upland trim levels. It is also standard equipment on the High Altitude trim. Critical Information at a Glance The driver information cluster is a vital piece of the included technology. At a glance, drivers can look at the cluster on their dashboard for important information. The cluster comes as a standard 3.5-inch black and white display in the Latitude, Upland, and Altitude trim levels. Owners see an upgrade to a 7.0-inch color display for the Trailhawk, Limited, and High Altitude trim levels. They can check speed, as well as available navigation, radio information, and active safety features. The cluster also includes the exterior temperature, trip distance,  water temperature, and fuel gauge. Warnings such as which door is open also appear on this cluster. Drivers also have the chance to personalize a variety of other settings. Are you ready to explore the 2019 Jeep Compass and all of its technology in person? Stop by Bill Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today. Our staff looks forward to helping you find your perfect Compass.

Art transcends life. If you find yourself exploring art in every city you visit, Detroit has a few gems waiting for you. These locations highlight different types of art for everyone. more Public Art Pieces Art is not just indoors in Detroit. The city is full of public art pieces that make you think and entertain you at the same time. Art enthusiasts can explore the city while taking in fascinating pieces. The Diamond II installation catches your eye over by the Conners Creek Power Plant. The diamond reflects off of water to give it even more depth. Visit the Ella Fitzgerald park to enjoy a large mural mosaic. A stunning Stevie Wonder mural now adorns the outside wall of the Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts. The painting was created by Richard Wilson, who is also responsible for the mural of a woman browsing records in the Eastern Market. Beyond all of the murals, Detroit is home to the world-famous Heidelberg Project. It houses a variety of outdoor public art spaces. The location is free and open for the public to visit daily from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. It changes regularly so that each visit is different. Bring your camera as pictures are allowed as long as they are for personal and not commercial use. To protect their privacy, you can't photograph the people, just the art. Detroit Artists Market Located at 4719 Woodward Avenue, the Detroit Artists Market is a non-profit that focuses on contemporary art. It is three blocks south of the Detroit Institute of Art. Free parking is available beyond the market, and there is also plenty of parking around the location. The space focuses on connecting artists with art collectors and the community. The space holds juried shows as well as curated exhibitions and market-style shows. Art lovers enjoy a variety of pieces while chatting with the artists to learn more about their work. Playground Detroit Art meets the future at Playground Detroit. This intriguing gallery doubles as a talent agency for up and coming artists. It is located at 2845 Gratiot Avenue and open for exploring from Wednesdays to Saturdays every week. You can also rent the space for private events or make a private appointment to see the work on display. The exhibitions rotate regularly for guests to enjoy new works. The gallery does not have a single focus, but showcases different styles of work, including photography, sculpture, painting, and multi-media art. Library Street Collective The Library Street Collective is at 1260 Library Street. Its focus is on contemporary fine arts. Stop by from Wednesdays to Saturdays to enjoy the art. The exhibitions change all the time as the gallery focuses on different mediums and artists. Bring friends and family with you as you explore these locations. Not only does it make the experience enjoyable, but it also gives you a chance to explain different art forms to your children. Don't forget to dress for the weather as you explore outdoor locations. Photo by JULIO NERY from Pexels

Are you looking for a vehicle for your next fall adventure? Before the leaves start changing colors and the football fields come alive, check out the 2019 Dodge Durango. Whether you are traveling for a game or exploring a beautiful apple orchard, the Durango will be your perfect companion. Inventory more Adequate Space Whether you are planning a tailgate party or looking to explore a mountain, there is plenty of space in the Durango. An optional third-row bench increases the seating capacity from five to seven people. It has a 50/50 split and is a fold and tumble seat, which means that it easily folds down for extra cargo space when needed. The second row is a 60/40 split seat. This gives drivers a choice of increasing the cargo space while changing up the seating arrangements. Owners also have the option of switching the second-row bench for two captain's chairs. Like the third row, these can also fold down into the floor for additional cargo space. Technology Beyond the ample space, this SUV is equipped with the latest technology to keep everyone happy on the road. It begins with power connections for the second-row passengers. The back of the front center console includes two charge-only USB ports. On the second row, there is an available 115-volt power outlet. The second row also includes an optional dual-screen Blu-Ray entertainment center. This is a great feature for both adults and kids on the road. For the front row, the technology combines information and entertainment. An optional navigation system means you will not miss kickoff because you are stuck in traffic. The driver information cluster includes warnings if you drift and provides alerts on fuel economy. The available SiriusXM system lets you keep up to date with other games and sports while you are on the road. Peace of Mind Safety and security add peace of mind to your adventure. The 2019 Dodge Durango includes a suite of safety features including the SiriusXM Guardian system. The Guardian lets you call for help through an SOS call or roadside assistance. It also sends security warnings to your smartphone through the UConnect app. If you lose your car in the parking lot, the app helps you find it for a quick exit home from your adventure. Should your Durango get stolen, the Guardian has a stolen vehicle feature to help the police locate it. Bad weather happens. However, it does not have to impact your drive. Available rain-sensing windshield wipers turn on automatically if the weather gets bad. There is a rain brake system included that automatically kicks in when the wipers turn on to either Lo or Hi, depending on the volume of the rain. This system gives drivers more control on wet roads. Are you ready to plan your next adventure in your new Dodge Durango? Stop by Bill Snethkamp Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram to explore the vehicle in person. Our staff looks forward to helping you find your perfect Durango today.

If you're touring Detroit, be sure not to miss out on some of these exciting tours and cruises. There's lots to see and do in and around the city, so take advantage of these luxurious treats and do it right. more Detroit Princess Riverboat Imagine a five-story boat with chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and an absolutely unbelievable view. The Detroit Princess is an elegant cruise to take advantage of in the Detroit area and is located right between the Cobo Center and the GM Renaissance Center. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner, plenty of live entertainment, and valet parking. Opt for one of the relaxed lunches held between 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. or a dinner cruise from 6 to 10 p.m. There is also a Sunday 3-7 p.m. cruise to enjoy. See the website for more options. Diamond Jack's River Tours Diamond Jack's River Tours are a fantastic way to take in the view of the city, all while having a memorable time with friends and family. The business has been owned and operated by the family for over 20 years. It leaves from Rivard Plaza between the months of June and September and from Thursday to Sunday between 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. The boat has three meeting rooms, along with a banquet and reception capacity of 150. There are sightseeing tours, as well as private group tours available. On the tours, you can learn about the interesting history of the city, while private dinner parties, weddings, and other such celebrations are available as well. Show Me Detroit Tours For a great tour of Detroit, look no further than the fun Show Me Detroit Tours. These are two-hour narrated deluxe van tours that show off the amazing downtown districts and attractions. Tours run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every day. Try the downtown tour, for example, where you might learn about such exciting sites as Campus Martius Park, Greektown, the Eastern Market, Belle Isle, and more. You can also opt for a private tour that meets your specific interests. Antique Touring For an approach that is a little bit different and exciting, try Antique Touring. It is the only history tour that is offered in Detroit every day and takes you along on antique cars. Located at the Piquette Plant where Henry Ford developed his cars, this touring company offers a tour steeped in history. Your guide will discuss historical changes to buildings and architecture and discuss the evolution of the automobile industry. A new tour being offered, called Tinkerers to Titans in the Auto Age, will discover the early history of cars in the Milwaukee area and visit production facilities where it all took place. It will also discuss local estates and the buildings built by greats in the industry. From learning about Detroit's vast history and industrial promise to engaging in city-wide tours and relaxing dockside on a beautiful boat, there are plenty of tours and cruises available. Come to Detroit, learn, and enjoy all this great city has to offer. Image via Flickr by PDru2014 used under CC BY 2.0

The new 2020 Jeep Gladiator is an exciting addition to the Jeep lineup. It takes everything we love about the Wrangler and adds a five-foot pickup bed on the back. The unique look of the Gladiator makes it stand out in a crowd, while its capabilities, both on and off the road, make it top on the list for trucks. Here are some of the things you need to know about the 2020 Jeep Gladiator. more 1. The Exterior Look The Gladiator is a four-door Wrangler up front with removable doors, a fold-down windshield, and a removable roof. In the back, a five-foot bed features a unique three-position tailgate with a midway position that allows you to haul loads that are longer than the five feet. The four trim levels start with the Sport which has 17-inch steel wheels and a Class II bumper hitch. The Sport S adds alloy wheels and heated power mirrors, while the Overland comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, side steps, tinted windows, and body-colored wheel arches. The top-level Rubicon adds extra off-road features such as 33-inch all-terrain tires and higher fenders to accommodate them. It also has locking front and rear differentials, Fox shock absorbers, and both rock rails and skid plates. 2. The Power and Performance All the Gladiator models get a 3.6-liter V-6 engine with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Jeep makes a six-speed manual transmission standard and offers the option for an eight-speed automatic. All trims also come with four-wheel drive. When equipped, the Gladiator can tow a class-leading 7,650 pounds and handle up to 1,600 pounds in the bed. 3. The Cabin and Technology The cabin is very similar to the latest Wrangler JK, with circle gauges and circle air vents. The materials Jeep uses are easy to clean and water resistant even in the lower trims so you can take it off-road and then just hose it out. The standard folding soft top has a sunroof feature and the base model comes with a 5-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. Jeep makes a 7-inch touch screen available, along with an 8.4-inch touch screen that comes with navigation and satellite radio. You can also get an updated version of the Uconnect infotainment system. Unique features that the Gladiator offers include a portable and waterproof Bluetooth speaker and a forward facing camera to get you a better view of the terrain ahead when you go off-road. 4. The Safety Features All the models come standard with a rearview camera and there are two safety packages available as well. The Safety Group and Advanced Safety group will add advanced driver-assist features such as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, rear parking sensors, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The 2020 Jeep Gladiator is a highly customizable truck. Along with the four different trim levels to choose from, you can also add packages to change the look of the doors, the top, and the windshield to make your Gladiator truly unique. Image via Flickr by Crown Star Images used under CC BY 2.0

It's not difficult to see why so many people love burgers. The juicy meat covered in cheese and then sandwiched between a soft bun is fantastic on its own, but it can also serve as the base for an unlimited number of options. Since Highland Park, Michigan, is just outside of Detroit, it means a great burger is only a few miles away. Here are some of the top burger joints near Highland Park. more 1. Checkers You can stay right in Highland Park for a crazy good burger at Checkers. Whether you want a cheeseburger or something more, you can always count on Checkers for a delicious meal. The Fry Lover's Burger is always a great choice and comes with dill pickles, ketchup, mayo, and is topped with seasoned French fries. The Baconzilla is also a crowd-pleaser. This has two burger patties, four slices of bacon, American cheese, ketchup, and mayo. You can even combine the two and get the Bacon Roadhouse piled with bacon, cheese, and seasoned fries. 2. California Burgerz Head to California Burgerz in Hamtramck for one of the best burgers in the area. Everything is made fresh, so you can get your burger cooked just the way you like. The menu includes a variety of options including the popular Gorilla Burger which comes with lettuce, tomato, caramelized onions, American cheese, the special CB sauce, and a pretzel bun. There is also the LA Bacon Burger with bacon, pickles, veggies, CB sauce, American cheese, and a Brioche bun. If you don't eat beef, you can also order a turkey burger or a veggie burger. 3. Hunter House Hamburgers Detroit's Hunter House Hamburgers on Woodward Avenue is a hamburger stand where you can get a nice greasy burger on a steamed bun. Add pickles and caramelized onions, along with some fries, and you've got the perfect quick meal on the go. The price is right, too; it will only cost you a little over $2 per burger. 4. Mt. Chalet Mt. Chalet in Detroit is a cozy restaurant and bar with great burgers. The build your own burger menu allows you to get exactly what you want, from the meat, to the toppings and the bun. Start with beef, turkey, or a bean burger and then choose from a Brioche bun, onion roll, or pretzel roll. You can then add your favorite cheese and anything from sauerkraut, pico de gallo, jalapeño, blue cheese salsa, roasted red pepper, bacon, sauteed mushrooms, coleslaw, and caramelized onions. 5. Mercury Burger & Bar Mercury Burger & Bar has 15 different burgers to choose from. You can get a classic burger or something more, like the Southwest Detroit which is a chorizo slider with jalapeños, muenster cheese, tortilla strips, avocado, and pickled spice carrots. The Local is a burger topped with pulled pork, slaw, cheddar cheese, pickles, and barbecue sauce and the French onion comes with bacon, caramelized onions, and onion straws, both are delicious menu selections. Check out one of these Highland Park area burger joints. You can build your own or get one of the house specials. Image via Flickr by cyclonebill used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The boldly styled Dodge Charger has the look of a classic performance vehicle and the muscle to make it perform like one. The 2019 model has a few changes, including moving the all-wheel-drive option from the GT to the SXT and Dodge added extra performance features to the GT and R/T. The R/T and the Hellcat also get the new launch assist system. In addition to these changes, here's why the 2019 Dodge Charger is so awesome. more The Power There are plenty of engines to choose from when getting a 2019 Dodge Charger. The base 3.6-liter V-6 will get you 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque and the power just goes up from there. A 5.7-liter V-8 generates 370 horsepower and 395 pound-feet of torque and a 6.4-liter V-8 delivers 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. The most powerful engine is the 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 for the Hellcat that produces 707 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque. The Cabin The Charger is a full-size sedan and has room for up to five passengers in its spacious cabin. Cloth upholstery comes in the SXT with leather offered as an option. All trims get a power-adjustable driver's seat and a 60/40 split for the rear seat, along with dual-zone automatic climate control. Heated rear seats are an available option and you can also get heated and ventilated front seats. The Technology The Uconnect infotainment system comes in all the Charger models. You'll also enjoy a 7-inch touch screen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and two USB ports. Navigation is another available option. A larger 8.4-inch touch screen is also available, it comes with an upgraded version of Uconnect, as well as HD radio, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, and an upgraded stereo. The Trim Options The 2019 Charger comes in five main trim levels with several sub-trims. The SXT starts with 17-inch alloy wheels and the all-wheel-drive version adds fog lights and heated side mirrors. Stepping up to the GT adds 20-inch wheels and some enhanced styling accents, plus upgraded suspension. The R/T has the same features as the GT, while the Scat Pack adds Brembo brakes, a powerful engine cooling system, and a limited-slip differential. The SRT Hellcat upgrades the suspension and adds After Run Chiller and Torque Reserve. The Safety Features Safety is still important in this performance vehicle. This one comes standard with a rearview camera and rear parking sensors. Depending on the trim, additional driver-assist safety features are available as part of optional packages. These options include full-speed forward collision warning with active braking, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-path detection. Dodge also offers automatic high-beam headlights, ready alert braking, advanced brake assist, and rain brake support that will keep the brake pads dry even when the roads are wet. The Dodge Charger is an awesome vehicle. It looks aggressive, has the power to back up the look, and it comes with all the modern technology. Image by Phuc Hoang from Pixabay

Summer is here, which means it's time to go out for ice cream. In the Highland Park area, there are a number of places you can go for a great scoop or even frozen yogurt if you prefer something lighter. Whether you like soft ice cream swirled on a cone or a sundae piled high with gooey chocolate fudge and whipped cream, here's where to go for ice cream in Highland Park. more Treat Dreams The Treat Dreams location in Ferndale is right near Highland Park and offers all your frozen favorites. It smells fantastic when you walk in, just like waffle cones and fresh baked cookies. The ice cream is delicious and with a wide variety of flavors to choose from, everyone can get something they like. The Kooky Monster is a local favorite. This blue ice cream stands out because of the color and when you bite into it, you'll get Oreos and cookie dough. Treat Dreams also has cartons of ice cream that you can take home for later, along with some other locally made treats. The Detroit Cookie Company Stop in the Detroit Cookie Company for more than just cookies. This bakery offers a selection of ice creams too. You can choose from mom's cookie dough, butter churn pecan, peanut udder bliss, and Dutch chocolate. The selection of flavors rotates, so make sure to check in often if you don't see your favorite flavor. Cold Stone Creamery You can't go wrong at Cold Stone Creamery when you want a sweet frozen treat. There are several locations near Highland Park where you can go to get your handcrafted dish. The ice cream is all made fresh in the store and you get to choose the flavor and then choose the mix-ins that you want to add. The server will chop it and fold it all together on a frozen granite stone to prepare your fresh creation. The menu has several signature combination suggestions or you can create your own. If you don't want ice cream, there is also sorbet or frozen yogurt and you can add fresh fruit or nuts to mix in for a healthier option. Burke's Igloo Burke's Igloo, on Conant Street in Hamtramck, offers a great selection and friendly staff. There is usually a long line of people waiting, but it is worth waiting for. This is a small stand that's been around since the 1960s and there are many soft-serve flavors to choose from along with flavor bursts and the Avalanche, which is the equivalent of a Blizzard from Dairy Queen, with candy and treats mixed in. There are even a couple of tables outside if you want to sit and eat your ice cream before heading out. You can also get dinner or lunch at Burke's. The menu offers a variety of fried food including a fried shrimp dinner or fried clams. Stop by one of these area ice cream shops this summer for a cold, refreshing treat. You can get just a soft-serve cone or go big with a couple of homemade scoops or even splurge on a sundae. Image via Flickr by chunyanlim used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Interstate-75 is a great road that goes from the north of the U.S. to the south, starting from the Canadian border and ending at Florida. It's one of the best roads in the U.S. on which you can take a road trip to discover many interesting cities and places along the way. However, if you live in Michigan or going there anytime soon, here are four of the best places that you should visit along Interstate-75. more 1. Castle Rock Castle Rock is one of the oldest lookout points in Michigan. It was known as "Pontiac's Lookout" by the Ojibwa Tribe, and it was opened for tourists and visitors in 1929. Ever since it has been a major tourist destination in the area. Castle Rock is about 183 feet above Interstate-75 and 195 feet above water level, and its summit has binoculars that you can use to enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Huron, Mackinac Island, downtown St. Ignace, and the wildlife habitat. This is one of the places that you shouldn't miss whenever driving nearby on Interstate-75. 2. Hartwick Pines State Park Hartwick Pines State Park is located in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, and it has the largest stand of old white pine trees in the region (49 acres). The park is the perfect destination for those who love outdoor sports, and its frequent visitors can enjoy many activities during all seasons of the year. Popular activities here include mountain biking, snowshoeing, camping, cross-country skiing, hiking, fishing, birding, and hunting. One of the best ways to discover the park is to hike its popular Old Growth Trail that passes by the Hartwick Pines Logging Museum. 3) Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum The Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum is home to the USS Edson Dd846 military ship, which is the main artifact in the museum. The ship was built in 1958, and it's one of two surviving Forest Sherman-class destroyers in the U.S. Most of the ship's service was during the Vietnam War and it played a vital role during the evacuation of Saigon and Phnom Penh in Vietnam. The museum mainly focuses on documenting the history of the United States Navy. 4) Stepping Stone Falls If you like the outdoors, you should definitely visit the Stepping Stone Falls whenever nearby. The manmade falls hold back the Flint River, creating the 600-acre Mott Lake. The falls have underwater lights that illuminate them at night, making it the perfect place to enjoy a nice walk in the evening. Also, you can take a 45-minute cruise on the Genesee Belle Riverboat that departs on Sundays in the evening. Admission to the falls is free, and there is also an available picnic area. Interstate-75 passes by many beautiful and interesting places that you should discover whenever you get a chance. In addition to the above-mentioned places in Michigan, there are more interesting places all along the highway. Also, if you are coming to Michigan anytime soon, make sure to spend at least one day in Detroit to discover its amazing museums, restaurants, and architecture. Photo by Pille Kirsi from Pexels

With the growing awareness of obesity and health issues, more people are looking for healthier ways to travel. This had led to a significant increase in the number of bicycles on the roads. Many cities have created bike lanes and offer bike rentals to encourage this cleaner, cheaper mode of transport. However, cyclists and car drivers have to share the same roads. When collisions happen, it's obvious who's going to come out worse. But with a little mutual respect, the roads can be shared harmoniously and accidents can be avoided. Here are four tips for driving safely around cyclists. more 1. Be Aware of Cyclists Observation is one of the most important aspects of driving. As a driver, you should always stay aware of what's going on around you by regularly looking in your mirrors and checking over your shoulder before turning right or changing lanes. With cyclists being more difficult to see than cars, this is even more vital. When pulling out at intersections, take an extra couple of seconds to make sure there isn't a cyclist approaching. Also, check your mirrors before opening your door. 2. Be Patient and Respectful It can be frustrating to get stuck behind a cyclist on the city streets, but if you can't get past, wait. Don't be tempted to squeeze past, as you could put the cyclist's life at risk. Most cyclists will try to let you pass when there is room. They have as much right to be on the road as cars do, so give them respect and don't yell or curse at them. A few seconds' delay won't ruin your day! 3. Give Cyclists Enough Space Cyclists are vulnerable and encounter a variety of hazards that drivers don't have to think about. Slippery manhole covers, debris in the road, and people opening car doors near them can cause them to swerve or, worse, to fall. When you're passing a cyclist, give him or her plenty of room and look for any potential dangers he or she might need to avoid. In some states, passing drivers are required to allow cyclists at least 3 feet. If you imagine a cyclist falling in front of you, would you have space to miss him or her? 4. Use the Dutch Reach The Netherlands has more than 22 million bicycles in an area less than a tenth the size of Michigan, so the Dutch know about cycle safety. The Dutch Reach involves drivers and passengers opening the car door with the hand farthest from it. As you reach for the handle, your upper body turns, making it simple to look in the side mirror and over your shoulder. Open the door slowly, looking all the time. Not only are you more likely to spot a passing cyclist, but you'll also reduce the risk of having your door hit by a passing vehicle. Cyclists can cause you minor delays, but being involved in a collision is going to keep you held up for a lot longer, so keep your cool. Image via Flickr by the_ donald_fotos used under CC BY 2.0

It's said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Fortunately, you don't have to travel too far from Highland Park, Michigan, to find some great breakfast spots. Here are four of the best in the area. more 1. Red Hots Coney Island Family owned and operated since 1921, Red Hots Coney Island on Victor Street is a retro diner famous for its Coney Island hot dogs. The friendly welcome you receive from owners Richard and Carol will make you feel right at home. The vintage posters and signs give the place a cool ambiance. Breakfast is served from 7-11 a.m. The menu includes a variety of egg dishes, hash browns, grits, toast, oatmeal, and more. You can add sides of bacon or sausage links or patties. And, of course, Coney Dogs are served all day. The fresh roast coffee is from Becharas Brothers in Highland Park. 2. La Dolce Vita La Dolce Vita on Woodward Avenue doesn't serve breakfast, but it's famed for its Italian Sunday brunch. The interior decor and artwork give the restaurant an elegant but relaxed feel. If the weather permits, you can sit on the cool patio with its brickwork, iron railings, and abundance of ivy. While the live band plays, you can enjoy bottomless Bloody Marys and mimosas. The brunch menu offers fresh fruit, bagel and smoked salmon, shrimp Benedict, egg sardau, Fettuccine Florentine, and fruit crepes. Or you could opt for the chef's pasta, omelet, or quiche of the day. 3. Kuzzo's Chicken & Waffles Located on Livernois Avenue north of Highland Park, Kuzzo's has an old-school jazz vibe with lots of wood, exposed brickwork, and unusual artwork. Apparently, "kuzzo" is a term of endearment for a family member or friend, and the employees greet customers like friends. It can get really busy, so you might have to wait to get seated. The all-day waffle combos feature such unusual delights as What Up Doe, Granny Plum, Tweety Bird, and Big Pappa. Breakfast combos include Nana's biscuits and gravy, Connie's fish and grits, and "Cuddin Pete." You also have choices of omelets and sandwiches. The drink selections include homemade lemonade and red, purple, and blue Kool-Aid. 4. Detroit One Coney Island Detroit One Coney Island is a cozy family-owned-and-operated diner on 7 Mile Road offering a warm welcome and freshly prepared food with the finest ingredients. The clean, bright decor makes for a homey atmosphere. It's a full-service restaurant, and you can get takeout or order delivery. The breakfast menu offers a selection of omelets, including the highly recommended Greek omelet, and sandwiches such as the grilled feta cheese and egg or breakfast burrito. The anytime breakfasts include veggie hash, Greek hash, and the all-meat skillet, while the specials feature the salmon patty breakfast, steak breakfast, and the super breakfast. These are just a few of the awesome breakfast spots close to Highland Park. With this variety of options, you don't need to travel any further. Image via Flickr by.Larry Page used under CC BY 2.0