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Coworkers carpooling to work in the 2019 Toyota Camry.

3 Reasons to Buy a New Toyota Camry

Toyota is famous for its line of mid-size sedans which have brought a new level of quality to consumers. The Camry, one of its flagship models, still continues to provide the quality and craftsmanship that has become an expectation over the years. The reasons to buy a new Camry are similar to those in the past. A new Camry provides the same trusted safety, comfort, efficiency, and technology that has been loved for generations. more 1. Performance The new Camry brings some surprising power to the table this year with either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.5-liter V-6. Both options bring more than adequate power when navigating the open highway. This year the Camry uses a direct fuel injection system that is selected based on driving conditions. This allows either engine to be impressively fuel-efficient. To go along with the new powerful engine, the suspension has also been upgraded to a strut front suspension. What this means is, when cornering, or even handling on an open highway, there is less play in the steering column caused by road friction. This allows for smoother handling and tighter steering, allowing the driver more control over the car's trajectory. 2. Design This is certainly not your parent's Camry. The new Camry's exterior has a sleek, sporty look that could easily be mistaken for a luxury sedan or extravagant sports car. One of the new exterior features is a new Nightshade paint job. Everything on the car, including the wheels, is completely blacked out, with the exception of exterior LED lighting. With the new Camry, there is even a mesh-like grille with the Toyota logo visible, which gives the care more of a luxury feel. The interior design also features some new designs that will make your parent's Camry only a memory. There is an option for red leather cockpit seating, which blends flawlessly with the rest of the interior design. The incorporation of paddle shifters into the driver's cockpit also gives you the feeling of driving a sports car instead of a sedan. 3. Technology The Camry also delivers with driver convenience and technology. The design of the car allows control right at the driver's fingertips so that the technology doesn't compete with the road for attention. Everything the driver needs to control the audio and camera systems is placed directly on the steering wheel for optimal safety. The new Camry comes with a push-button start, bird's-eye panoramic camera, and rear cross-traffic sonar which allows for intelligent braking. This means that it will sense objects in the rear-view or around the side of the vehicle and make the necessary adjustments automatically. The new Toyota Camry is the perfect combination of luxury, efficiency, and power. Anyone who has experienced the quality that comes from Toyota will be impressed by the steps taken to upgrade the Camry for the next generation. This new model has guaranteed that the Camry is not just a smart choice, but is fun, responsive, and exciting to drive as well. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A beautiful plate of traditional Sinaloa Tacos.

Top Mexican Eateries in Madison, WI

When the family budget doesn't quite stretch to an all-inclusive vacation in the Riviera Maya or intrepid exploration of the Chichen Itza pyramids, the second-best option will have to do. What is that option, you ask? Why, heading to a deliciously authentic Mexican restaurant in Madison to get your fill of tacos, chilaquiles, and queso, of course! We've hunted down our favorite Mexican eateries in Madison, WI, for you, so the hardest decision you'll have to make is choosing where to go first. more Taqueria Guadalajara One thing we love about Taqueria Guadalajara is its extensive menu, which boasts not only veggie-friendly options but also traditional Mexican fare, and not just your typical Tex Mex grub. Okay, maybe that is more than one thing, but we love it here! The mole is a must-try, and with flavor-rich tacos starting at $2 a pop, you can feed the masses without breaking the bank here. The horchata is sweet and cinnamony enough to conjure distant childhood memories of the comfort drink Abuela used to make. Eldorado Grill We highly recommend Eldorado for those who prefer high-quality Mexican fusion. Here you can find deliciously crafted Southwestern food, such as their famous Baby Back Ribs, alongside mouthwatering Mexican classics such as pork adobo with queso fresco. Ask for it extra spicy! Wash it all down with a margarita, made with 100% agave tequila. Head over on a Tuesday to try their Top Shelf Tuesdays and have the chance to taste test some of the best tequilas they offer at a discounted price, perfectly paired with tasty tacos. Tex Tubb's Taco Palace If you're looking for a trendy, colorful restaurant with plenty of food options for the whole family, head on down to Tex Tubb's. We loved the bottomless chips and homemade salsas, and vegans will find bliss with the vegan nachos and queso. The service is quick and friendly, and the happy hour will keep you entertained at a low price - why not try one of each of their specialty margaritas?  Eating at Tubb's is a unique experience, and truly one to be repeated. Tacos served in a vintage toy car, anyone? La Mestiza At La Mestiza, you're sure to find fresh, authentic, and flavorful food. It's almost as good as a trip to Mexico City! With a wide range of enchiladas available on the menu, we dare you to try something different from your usual chicken taco. We absolutely loved the spicy shrimp enchiladas. While we've got you out of your comfort zone, do not leave without having eaten nopales - that's cactus to you and me. A truly delightful culinary experience! Wisconsin, despite being geographically distant from Mexico, still packs a punch in terms of spice, flavor, and authentic Mexican cuisine. Madison sure didn't disappoint us on our taco pilgrimage, and we loved the variety of ingredients and gastronomical styles we experienced along the way. As connoisseurs of Mexican cuisine, Madison has our seal of approval!   “ tacos Sinaloa selection” via Flickr by scaredykay. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The front end of the all-new 2020 Toyota Corolla.

Discover the All-New 2020 Toyota Corolla

The 2020 Toyota Corolla delivers a stunning new design and plenty of updated features inside and out. If you've been thinking about upgrading to a new sedan, learn more about some of the outstanding comforts and conveniences you'll find in the 2020 Corolla that makes it the ideal option for you. Striking Exterior Design The first thing you'll notice when you take a look at the 2020 Toyota Corolla is that it showcases a stunning new exterior design that will surely turn heads. In the front, standard features that include a honeycomb mesh grille, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, and a low stance give the sedan a sleek appearance. For convenience, the Corolla also comes standard with power-adjustable side mirrors. In the back, the standard LED taillights offer enhanced efficiency and a distinctive look. more Fun and Capable Power When you're ready to feel some fun when you hit the road, the Toyota Corolla has the power to give you what you want. This vehicle comes standard with a 1.8-liter engine that delivers 139 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. For even more excitement, consider the available 2.0-liter engine that generates 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Or you can enjoy efficiency and fun with the first-ever Corolla hybrid model that comes with a 1.8-liter hybrid engine that offers 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. Premium Interior Features If you're looking for a new Toyota that has premium interior features, you'll find everything you want inside the 2020 Corolla. The cabin in the Corolla now feels more open and spacious, and it offers plenty of deluxe features that make it feel like you're surrounded by luxury. The available SofTex-trimmed front seats include a heating element and sport fabric inserts. Even your fingertips can enjoy a touch of softness thanks to the available leather-trimmed steering wheel. Other convenient available features in the Corolla include automatic climate control and push-button start. Excellent Technology The 2020 Corolla offers some outstanding technology features to help you stay connected like never before. The standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touch-screen display, a six-speaker audio system, a USB media port, and advanced voice recognition controls and music streaming using Bluetooth. Additionally, the system comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Siri Eyes Free so you can stream music, get directions, make calls, and send messages using your voice. Plus, with the standard Amazon Alexa compatibility, you can get the forecast, play music, and more. Impressive Safety Features When you want to feel extra peace of mind every time you hit the road just remember the excellent safety features in the Toyota Corolla. The Corolla comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Road Sign Assist, Automatic High Beams, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist and Road Edge Detection with Sway Warning System, Lane Tracing Assist, and Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. If you're ready to enjoy all the amazing new features found in the 2020 Toyota Corolla, come get behind the wheel of this stylish vehicle today. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A beautiful pagoda in Madison's Olbrich Gardens.

5 Top Attractions in Madison, WI

As the capital of Wisconsin and the second-largest city in the state, Madison offers a variety of interesting things to do and see. If you're planning to visit the city and you want to discover everything it has to offer, make sure you don't miss these top attractions. 1. Olbrich Botanical Gardens Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a stunning 16-acre outdoor garden display that features an incredible mix of hearty Midwest plants and colorful tropical greenery. Every season offers something new to see. Stop by in the spring to check out the blooming bulbs. Come in the summer to experience the bright annuals and perennials. Fall showcases colorful mums and brilliant red, orange, and yellow trees, and winter has pops of color with evergreens and berries. Winter is also the perfect time to check out the year-round tropical paradise in the Bolz Conservatory. more 2. Henry Vilas Zoo If you want to learn more about exotic animals and those that are native to Wisconsin, plan a trip to the Henry Vilas Zoo. The zoo is home to over 650 animals from around the world, including 20 that are considered endangered or vulnerable. Some of the popular exhibits at the zoo include the Arctic Passage, Big Cats Exhibit, North American Prairie, Primate House, Tropical Rainforest Aviary, Savanna and High Plains, and Discovery Center and Herpetarium. Best of all, the county owns the zoo, which means it doesn't charge an admission fee. 3. Wisconsin State Capitol Wisconsin's Capitol building reaches over 265 feet in the sky and is topped by an elegant gilded bronze statue, making it one of the most eye-catching parts of the city's skyline. The best way to experience the beauty and history of the building is to take a tour. Free tours of the Capitol are offered daily except on certain holidays. The tour lasts between 45 and 55 minutes and lets you check out special rooms in the building and learn more about daily operations. During the summer, the sixth-floor museum and observation deck are also open. 4. Chazen Museum of Art The Chazen Museum of Art located at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has a collection of more than 20,000 works of art that represent the entire spectrum of art history. As you tour the museum, you'll see paintings and sculptures from a variety of cultures, periods, and genres. Some of the popular artists displayed at the museum include Salvador Dali, Henry Moore, Andy Warhol, and Grandma Moses. 5. Dane County Farmers' Market The Dane County Farmers' Market is one of the largest producer-only markets in the United States. The popular Saturday on the Square market is held on the beautiful tree-lined grounds of the Wisconsin State Capitol building. During the winter, the market moves indoors to the Madison Senior Center. No matter when you visit, you'll find an incredible selection of fruits, vegetables, honey, cheeses, bakery items, and more straight from the growers and makers. When you want to experience the best that Madison has to offer, you know you can't go wrong when you check out these top attractions around the city.   “ olbrich_005” via Flickr by kfcasper. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A silver 2019 Toyota Tundra loaded down with timbers.

Explore the Powerful and Dependable Toyota Tundra

The strong and capable Toyota Tundra is a full-size truck that combines incredible good looks with outstanding power. If you've been searching for a new Toyota, there are a variety of reasons why the Tundra is perfect for you. Learn more about all the excellent features you'll enjoy in this powerful and stylish truck. Bold Exterior When you take a look at the Toyota Tundra, you'll see a strong and eye-catching truck designed to suit your needs. To give you the space you need to take care of any job, the Tundra offers beds in 5.5-foot, 6.5-foot, and 8.1-foot options. The truck also includes plenty of features to make your drive more convenient. It comes standard with halogen headlights with LED accent lights, heated and power-adjustable side mirrors, and an easy lower and lift tailgate. For even more convenience, the Tundra is also available with LED fog lamps and headlights and auto-dimming side mirrors. more Incredible Power Not only does the Toyota Tundra look amazing, but it also offers incredible power for work and play. The truck comes with a 5.7-liter i-FORCE V-8 engine that combines with a six-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission to generate 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. Thanks to that kind of power, the Tundra has a maximum towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds and a maximum payload capacity of up to 1,730 pounds when properly equipped. To help make sure your fun doesn't have to stop because you need gas, the Tundra is also available with a 38-gallon fuel tank. Spacious Interior Just because the Toyota Tundra is tough and strong on the outside, that doesn't mean you have to give up your favorite comforts inside. In fact, the Tundra's spacious cabin gives you and your passengers plenty of room to stretch out during your drive. You'll also find numerous premium features designed to help make your trip more comfortable. On chilly days, you'll appreciate the available dual-zone climate control and heated front seats. For a soft touch, the Tundra is also available with leather-trimmed seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Fantastic Technology When you need to stay connected, the Toyota Tundra has the technology to help. The truck comes standard with an infotainment system that includes a 7-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, voice-recognition controls, and music streaming. The Tundra is also available with a premium infotainment system that includes an 8-inch touch-screen display and built-in navigation. Plus, with Remote Connect, you can use your mobile device turn on and off the engine, lock and unlock doors, and more. Top Safety Features Along with outstanding power, your Toyota Tundra also has some impressive safety features. Every Tundra comes standard with a rearview camera and Toyota Safety Sense, which includes Automatic High Beams, a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Alert. If you want a powerful truck that also delivers incredible comfort, you'll find everything you need when you get behind the wheel of the Toyota Tundra. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A tree lined sidewalk in Madison during the Fall.

5 Things to Do This Fall Near Madison, WI.

It's true, summer is coming to an end in Madison, Wisconsin, but that doesn't mean the good times have to stop as well. Instead, it's time to start looking forward to a variety of exciting fall activities. When you're ready to get outside and see what the area has to offer, make plans to check out one of these fun things to do in the fall near Madison. more 1. Eugster's Farm Market and Petting Farm To experience all those classic and exciting fall activities, travel 15 minutes south of Madison to Eugster's Farm Market and Petting Farm. If you come for the Fall Festival Weekends, you can head out to the U-Pick apple orchard to fill a bag with your choice of apples, stop by the pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin, explore the 8-acre corn maze, walk through the haunted house, take a wagon ride, or stroll through the petting zoo to meet the farm animals. 2. Dane County Farmers' Market Held on Saturday mornings on the Capitol Square, the Dane County Farmers' Market is one of the largest producer-only markets in the country. If you're looking to fill your basket with some of the freshest fall produce from local farms, this is the place to go. You'll find apples, corn, eggplant, melons, peaches, pears, peppers, plums, berries, and more. In addition to fresh produce, you'll also be able to stock up on honey, nuts, jellies, jams, maple syrup, plants, cheese, meat, dairy, and baked goods. 3. Cherokee Marsh Hayride During the fall, the City of Madison Parks Division offers a schedule of hayrides for everyone to enjoy. One popular option is the Cherokee Marsh Hayride, which tours the Cherokee Marsh Conservation Park. If you decide to take this hayride, you'll climb aboard a tractor-pulled hay wagon to view the beautiful sights of the park. After the ride, volunteers from the Friends of Cherokee Marsh will offer a free, short nature hike. While you're there, you can also enjoy free marshmallows to roast on the fire and hot cider. 4. Olbrich Botanical Gardens Olbrich Botanical Gardens is beautiful no matter what time of year you visit, but it's especially lovely in the fall. As you stroll around the 16-acre outdoor display garden, you can take in the gorgeous colors of the changing leaves. The garden also hosts a variety of special fall events. This year, GLEAM: Art in a New Light is back by popular demand. This exhibition features stunning light installations around the gardens. 5. Schuster's Playtime Farm Another fun place to visit this fall near Madison is Schuster's Playtime Farm. During the fall season, you can ride the wagon out to the 14-acre pumpkin patch, practice your aim firing an apple cannon, get lost in the 8-acre corn maze, take a thrilling walk through the Haunted Forest, and enjoy savory treats that include caramel apples, cider donuts, kettle corn, and hot apple cider. When you're interested in having some fun around Madison this fall, be sure to check out a few of these outstanding events.   “ Fall color Madison, WI, October, 2011” via Flickr by Richard Hurd. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The front right corner of the 2019 Toyota Corolla.

3 Reasons Why the Toyota Camry is an Enduring Model

The Toyota Camry has been in production for decades, and for good reason. Since the first front-wheel-drive Camry was introduced in 1983 in America, it has been out-performing the competition. Here's a look at why the Camry is one of the most enduring vehicles ever made. 1. Power Under the Hood The Camry has gone through many iterations, and each new model has been engineered with performance in mind. The 2019 Camry comes with two engine options, a 2.4-liter Dynamic Force 4-cylinder engine that is surprisingly responsive and a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that gives the Camry some real muscle. Both engines use Toyota's D-4S Direct Injection system which maximizes fuel efficiency by selecting the best injection method based on driving conditions. The result is speed and power while remaining fuel-efficient. more 2. Agility on the Road Knowing the road you're on is important, and Toyota understands where the Camry will be driving. Whether it's a suburban or urban commute or upcountry for the weekend, the Camry is designed for comfort. Equipped with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, the Camry handles the stop and go commute and the curvy back roads with equal confidence. Toyota's Direct Shift Automatic 8-Speed Transmission also enhances the Camry's ride. Precision shifting, a lower center of gravity, and lightweight materials allow the Camry to ride smoother and with improved fuel efficiency. With three driver-selectable modes, the Camry can be tailored to the road or driver. Select Sport mode and hang on through the tight turns. Eco mode will get you there efficiently, automatically moderating throttle input. For the best of both worlds, you can select Normal mode, a seamless blend of efficiency and handling. The Camry also allows you to choose your own shift points on either the gear shift lever or the paddle shifters on the steering wheel, giving you the ultimate control of your driving experience. In the end, the Camry delivers an estimated 41 highway mpg, and that result speaks for itself. 3. Safety Always a hallmark of the Toyota Camry, safety continues to propel the Camry to the head of the pack. 2019 is no exception as the Camry comes standard with an Advanced Air Bag System that features dual-stage SRS driver and front passenger airbags and front and rear side-curtain airbags. With ten airbags overall, the Camry offers great protection in the event of a collision. The Camry also features the Star Safety System, a suite of six systems using cutting edge technology to keep you safer on the streets. Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-Lock Brakes, Electronic Brake-Force Distribution, Brake Assist, and Smart Stop Technology all work unseen under the hood. Additional safety features like Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert expand your vision and can help reduce the risk of accidents and injury. All in all, the Camry continues to deliver, year after year, and now, decade after decade. Power, performance, efficiency, and safety are the reasons why. Come in and test drive one today and see for yourself why the Camry continues to endure. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A view through stalactites and stalagmites into one of the chambers at the Cave of the Mounds.

3 Off the Beaten Places in Madison You Need to See

Sometimes visiting places off the beaten track is the perfect way to explore interesting locations that are aren't your typical everyday attractions. In Madison, consider these quirky destinations for intriguing and memorable adventures. 1. Cave of the Mounds The Cave of the Mounds is definitely off the beaten track when you're looking for natural beauty that has stood the test of time. The cave was discovered in 1939 and listed as a National Natural Landmark. Inside the cool recesses of the cave, a rainbow of crystal formations casts colorful hues along paved walkways. Take the guided tour and learn about the centuries-old cave and its history from the tour guides. Enjoy additional activities, including digging for fossils, mining for gems, hiking scenic trails, and relaxing in the Butterfly Gardens. While visiting, you'll have access to the rock and gift shops for a souvenir, a snack bar for refreshments, or you can pack a lunch and relax at the picnic area. Cave of the Mounds is open year-round with tours starting every 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the season, rain or shine. Tours last about one hour. more 2. House on the Rock For a truly astounding example of architecture, the House on the Rock tops the list. The home is unique in more ways than one. Construction on the home began in 1945 by Alex Jordan, who had a vision of creating a retreat that would be perched upon the rock formation, providing a panorama of scenic views. The tour of the home is broken down into three sections. You will be guided through 13 creative rooms featuring beautiful decor amid soft colors and hues, treasures and collectibles, exquisite fireplaces, handcrafted dolls, music machines, and much more. The tour includes the Gate House, Spirit of Aviation, Music of Yesterday, Streets of Yesterday, The Mill House, Organ Room, Inspiration Point, Doll House Room, Circus Room, The Galleries, The Doll Carousel Room, the 218-foot Infinity Room comprised of over 3,000 pieces of glass, Indoor Carousel, and the Heritage of the Sea complete with a 200-foot tall denizen of the deep display. Outside, the Japanese Gardens features a 14-foot waterfall. 3. Lamp House For architecture enthusiasts, the Lamp House is a "must-see" in Madison. The home was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for his childhood friend, Robert Lamp. Located at 22 North Butler Street, the three-story home was built in 1903. The house features squares, tiered rectangles, a diamond pattern in the brickwork, casement windows with leaded glass, and atop the third story, a roof garden. The Lamp House is set back from the street amid a landscaped garden designed back in the day with decorative urns, detailed curbs, and stone walls to evoke a solitary environment. Although the impressive home is privately owned, it continues to draw artists, architects, and history buffs for its historical importance. Take a walk on the wild and unusual side, get up-close to ancient natural formations, and step back into a time when a legendary architect made dreams come true. Enjoy visiting these unique destinations that will take you off the beaten path.   “ Cave of the Mounds 15” via Flickr by minnemom. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

A black Prius C parked by the edge of a lake in the Tennessee mountains.

The 2019 Prius c Entry-Level is a Smart Buy

If you are in the market for an economical car that is environmentally friendly, Toyota's Prius c is one you should consider. Toyota has been manufacturing the Prius since 1997, and it was the world's first mass-market hybrid vehicle. Originally a four-door sedan, the Prius morphed into a hatch-back in 2003. As of January 2017, the Prius hit the 4 million units sold mark, making it the world's best selling hybrid. In 2011 Toyota introduced the Prius v, an extended hatchback, and the Prius c, a subcompact hatchback. The Prius c was created for urban drivers seeking to leave as small a footprint as possible, both literally and figuratively, on the world around them. It succeeded and here's a look at why the Prius c is a great entry-level hybrid economy car. more Performance When you shop for a subcompact hybrid, you aren't planning on hitting the track. You're probably more interested in getting around safely in a congested urban area. The Prius c does that and it does it well. This hybrid has plenty of pep for zipping around the city. Its 4-cylinder engine is paired with an electric motor and uses a continuously variable automatic transmission to propel the subcompact to a whopping 48 Mpg city rating. For a subcompact, it handles well. Its firm suspension is suited for city driving as it easily maneuvers through tight corners and cramped metropolitan streets and parking lots. The Prius c also uses a regenerative braking system. For those unfamiliar, a regenerative braking system uses the engine to slow the vehicle while at the same time transferring that braking energy into charging the battery. Interior When you hear the word subcompact you don't think about space, however, the Prius c offers plenty of it. With seating for five, you and your coworkers can carpool comfortably, or you and your friends can hit the town for a night out. The Prius c has plenty of cargo space too, with over 17 cubic feet in the hatchback. You can pick up your parents at the airport and stow their bags, or you can hit the grocery store and load up your weekly groceries; no problem. The Prius c also comes standard with a 6.1-inch touch screen for the infotainment system. Automatic climate control, USB port, Bluetooth, voice recognition, and Siri Eyes Free systems are all standard. Safety The Prius c comes equipped with driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, and front and rear head airbags. It's 4-Wheel Automatic Braking System is paired with Toyota's Brake Assist system that will detect when a collision is imminent and apply brake pressure to help avoid a collision or reduce the impact. Electronic Stability Control helps keep the vehicle under control when it detects extreme sway. Its Traction Control system provides additional power to select wheels when detecting slippage and a Lane Departure Warning system alerts you when the vehicle detects a drift outside your lane. The amount of power packed into its small frame combines with its unparalleled economy and class-leading cargo room to make the Toyota Prius c a natural choice for anyone looking for a great entry-level hybrid.   “ Prius c Tennessee” via Flickr by petridish38. Used with permission via CC0 1.0 / cropped from original

View from just above Big Spring in the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum.

Fun Summertime Outdoor Activities to Experience in Madison

"Summertime, summertime, sum, sum summertime" are lyrics from an upbeat 1950s song that inspires folks to want to get up and go out and find some fun in the summertime. In Madison, there are plenty of options to choose from for all ages to enjoy the day and soak up some rays. Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum Put on your walking shoes and sunglasses in preparation for enjoying the beauty of nature at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. For hiking enthusiasts, you'll have access to 17 miles of scenic trails along boardwalks, fire lanes, and footpaths. Along the way, you'll observe different landscapes from wetlands and woodlands to prairies and savannas. Save time to visit the natural areas, too. These are undisturbed areas that show Wisconsin landscape in its original form. Anyone who likes to grow plants, trees, and flowers will want to take one of three garden tours. The 35-acre Longenecker Horticultural Gardens is a palette of visual color with thousands of vines, trees, shrubs, plants; some native to Wisconsin. The Viburnum Garden hosts three acres with multiple varieties and species of arborvitae and Viburnum. The third area is the four-acre Wisconsin Native Plant Garden that is home to 15 gardens filled with native Wisconsin species. The visitor center is open Monday through Sunday, for information on seasonal hours of operation and events. more Henry Vilas Zoo Get in touch with the wild side of life with a visit to Henry Vilas Zoo, which is home to more than 650 animals from around the world. From aardvarks to yellow-banded poison dart frogs, and nearly everything in-between, you'll observe and learn about 115 interesting and intriguing species. The zoo is home to mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, arthropods, and fish. Among these are 20 endangered species. Your visit will take you through several continents that include Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and South America and a variety of exhibits. Throughout the year, the zoo hosts events in support and celebration of the wildlife. The zoo is open year-round, with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. Hours of operation are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Ice Age National Scenic Trail For hikers and backpackers who want to experience the challenge of a trail while enjoying panoramic views and scenic landscape, add the Ice Age Trail to your summertime itinerary. With over 1,000 miles to traverse, you'll walk along the edge of a continental glacier. The trail is entirely in Wisconsin and winds its way through multiple counties and parks. The views are spectacular, and the landscape offers opportunities for taking photos, viewing wildlife, and observing many bird species. Along some parts of the trail, bicycles are allowed but no motorized vehicles or ATVs are permitted. At certain state, national, and county parks, camping is available including primitive and full-facility campsites. Take your summertime fun to another level of excitement by visiting Madison's great outdoor attractions. They're sure to make memorable impressions.   “ Big Spring-UW Arboretum 10-07-2012 169” via Flickr by Richard Hurd. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The 2020 Toyota Corolla lineup.

The Versatile 2020 Toyota Corolla - Which Model Is Right For You?

The all-new, fully redesigned 2020 Toyota Corolla features dramatic front-end styling, a sleek aerodynamic profile, and a stylish back-end. The Corolla is offered in L, LE, SE, XLE, and XSE trimmed sedans, with SE and XSE also available with a hatchback. For the first time, there is a Corolla hybrid in LE trim. Exterior Styling Corolla L models feature the bold, black sport mesh grille, LED headlights and daytime running lights, 15-inch steel wheels, color-keyed door handles and power mirrors, and LED taillights. LE trim adds 16-inch wheels and heated mirrors, while the Hybrid LE offers alloy wheels. The sporty SE sedan has a metallic grille, accent lighting, 18-inch wheels, mirrors with turn signals, a color-keyed rear spoiler, and a dual chrome-tipped exhaust. The XLE features 16-inch alloy wheels and a power moonroof, while the XSE trim has metallic gray side panels and rear spoiler. more Drivetrains Powering L, LE, and XLE trims is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 139 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. It's mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). In the SE and XSE is a four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine producing 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. In hatchback models, this engine produces 168 horsepower and 155 pound-feet. SE models have the option of a six-speed manual transmission. The Hybrid LE features a 1.8-liter engine paired with twin electric motors and the system has a combined output of 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with an electronically controlled CVT. Interior Features The Corolla sedan has 13.1 cubic feet (11.4 in the hybrid) of room in the trunk, while the hatchback offers up to 17.8 cubic feet of cargo space. L trim offers cloth seats with 60/40 split-folding rear seats, air-conditioning, a tilting and telescoping multifunction steering wheel, a 4.2-inch multi-information cluster display, and a 12-volt power outlet. LE models add premium cloth upholstery, automatic climate control, metallic and chrome trim, and remote illuminated keyless entry. Hybrid LE has a 7-inch multi-information display, while SE trim offers sports seats, a leather steering wheel, push-button start, and normal and sport driving modes (CVT). The XLE features SofTex simulated leather upholstery, power driver's seat, and heated front seats, while XSE trim has paddle shifters. The standard infotainment system includes a 7-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, voice recognition, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and six-speaker audio. LE adds an 8-inch touch screen, while the XLE has HD and satellite radio. It also has the option of navigation and a premium audio system. Driver Assist Technology Standard on the Corolla is Toyota Safety Sense, which includes pre-collision warning with pedestrian detection, daytime cyclist detection, lane departure warning with steering assist, lane tracing assist, road edge detection, full-speed adaptive cruise control, road sign assist, and automatic high beams. The standard Star Safety System features vehicle stability control, traction control, and ABS with brake assist, electronic brake-force distribution, and smart stop technology. To compare the models and see which is best for you, head down to Smart Toyota for a closer look. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A luscious cone of blueberry ice cream.

Cool Off this Summer At These Madison Ice Cream Shops

On a hot summer's day, few things beat delicious ice cream. Madison, Wis., boasts many great ice cream parlors; here are some of the best. Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream From humble beginnings in 1962, the Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company now has four stores and a manufacturing plant in Madison, and supplies over 400 small businesses nationwide. The ice cream is made from the milk of Wisconsin cows and the company uses real ingredients for the flavors. The Chocolate Shoppe offers more than 70 flavors of ice cream, some sporting names like Exhausted Parent (with Bourbon-spiked espresso); Fat Elvis, featuring banana ice cream with peanut butter ripple; and “This $&@! Just Got Serious” (with salted caramel ice cream, sea salt fudge, and salted cashews). It also sells frozen yogurt and no-added-sugar and vegan options. more Babcock Hall Dairy Store The Babcock Hall Dairy Store is located on Linden Drive and attached to the dairy plant so the ice cream is always fresh. As well as standard flavors, this on-campus store has feature flavors that may be made only once, seasonally, or for special events. It also serves a variety of ice cream pies, sundaes, ice cream sandwiches, and malts and shakes. You could try Berry Proud Parent with vanilla ice cream, raspberries, and chocolate chips; Pomegranate Greek frozen yogurt; Blue Moon (yes, it's blue!); Mocha Macchiato; or Grapefruit Mango sherbet. The store also has a second-floor observation deck overlooking the dairy plant. La Michoacana For ice cream with a taste of Mexico, La Michoacana has two eateries in Madison on Odana Road and East Washington Ave. The ice cream and other frozen products are made in house using only fresh fruit and local ingredients. The high fruit content means less sugar and fewer additives are used. Some of the unusual ice cream flavors offered include coconut, cajeta made from caramelized goats' milk, queso (yes, cheese!), and tequila, which tastes just like a margarita. Mangonada is the house specialty and is mango ice cream with chamoy, a pickled fruit sauce. Also popular here are paletas, which are popsicles made with pieces of fresh fruit frozen in juice. Kilwins In this quaint store on State Street, you'll feel like a kid in a candy store. There are so many choices, you won't know where to start. Kilwins might be a chain, but all the goodies are made in the store. You'll find candy apples, chocolate treats, creamy fudge, and of course, ice cream. Kilwins offers more than 40 flavors with large scoops served in fresh-made waffle cones. Alongside the old favorites, they offer flavors such as Cake Batter, Turtle Cheesecake, Raspberry Greek Yogurt, and Key Lime Pie. Seasonal offerings include Pumpkin Pie and The Perfect Apple Pie. If you're not sure what to try, you can get a free tasting sample. One of these Madison ice cream stores is bound to become your new favorite.   “ Blueberry ice cream cone” via Flickr by m01229. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

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