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The Toyota Corolla remains one of the most popular and well-known models on the road today. Toyota's reputation for dependability helps this cause, but there are also many excellent features on the Corolla which help it rise above the crowded sedan field. Here are some of the best features on the new 2019 Corolla. more Lots of Trim Levels There are seven different trim levels available on the 2019 Toyota Corolla. There are also two engine configurations, allowing you to choose between a 132-horsepower engine and a 140-horsepower version depending on which trim level you opt for. While having lots of trims can make choosing a new Corolla more difficult, it can help save you a bit of money when you go to purchase your vehicle. Features are added on gradually across the vehicle's trim levels, allowing you to pay for the features you want. You can also explore available additions and options like exterior color to customize the Corolla however you'd like. Excellent Safety Features Toyota's commitment to dependability is well known. The 2019 Corolla has several impressive safety features available across all trim levels. There are eight airbags, including front and rear side curtain airbags, to help protect up to five passengers. Ventilated brakes help disperse heat faster, allowing for more efficient braking. The frame is reinforced with side impact bars, which reduce the force delivered to the passengers in the event of a side collision. An advanced traction control system adjusts power and braking pressure to keep you in control on dicey roads. Leading the Way in Driver Assistance In addition to the excellent collision safety and traction control features, the 2019 Corolla is leading the way with plenty of the latest in-demand driver assistance features. Toyota Safety Sense, the brand's suite of driver assistance features, are standard on the 2019 Corolla. With this collection, you'll command roads as the system monitors several scenarios and then alerts and helps react if necessary. A front collision warning system not only detects front collisions with vehicles but can also alert you to a potential pedestrian collision. If the system detects an imminent crash, it will apply braking pressure automatically to mitigate damage or injury. Similarly, dynamic cruise control will alter the speed of your cruise to maintain a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Automatic high beams and lane departure monitors are also standard. Stay Informed and Entertained The 2019 Toyota Corolla also includes top-of-the-line infotainment additions. Some of the available features include wireless phone connectivity, onboard navigation, and onboard internet access. The Entune entertainment system allows for Sirius XM radio. Optional features include live Doppler radar and dynamic traffic monitoring so you can always stay a step ahead of rush hour. Once you get behind the wheel of the new Toyota Corolla, you'll understand why it's such an excellent vehicle. The slew of great safety and driver assistance features that come standard make it an appealing option for just about anyone. The powerful entertainment system is also a wonderful touch. Visit Smart Toyota today to take one for a test drive! We proudly serve drivers throughout the greater Madison, WI area, including Middleton, Sun Prairie, and beyond. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

One of the most efficient vehicles on the road just got a major upgrade. The new addition to Toyota's Prius line adds more capability and performance to the equation. The 2019 Prius AWD equipped option will take you anywhere you need to go, and you still can skip that gas station. Here's what you need to know about the new all-wheel-drive-equipped (AWD-e) Prius. more Conquer the Road Ahead With All-Wheel Drive Toyota recently announced AWD-e Prius trims, and the media has been buzzing. It's important to note a few things about these vehicles before moving forward. First, the all-wheel-drive functionality is only available at speeds below 44 miles per hour. However, the fact that AWD is finally available is excellent news for Prius fans. Second, only the LE and XLE trims have the option to add all-wheel drive. The base trim and more luxurious limited trim won't have the option to include this feature. Versatility for Any Adventure The 2019 Prius is ready for whatever you throw at it. The new all-wheel-drive capability allows it to handle rougher road conditions while still delivering top-of-the-line fuel efficiency. Sometimes it pays to pave the way in hybrid technology. Of course, the form and functionality don't end with the drivetrain. You'll love the 27 cubic feet of cargo room with the seats up and the 65.5 cubic feet with them folded down. With the addition of roof racks for even more storage, that camping trip to Grand Tetons suddenly seems within reach. Regardless of where you want to be, you can rest assured that an AWD-e Prius can get you there. TSS-P Keeps You Safe on Your Journey Toyota's Safety Sense driver assistance package is here to help keep everyone safer. Features such as a front-end pre-collision system, pedestrian detection, lane keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control are just a few of the popular in the safety suite. This package is standard on all 2019 Prius trims. High-Tech Monitors One of the best things about getting behind the wheel of an all-new AWD-e Prius is the extensive technology features available. Your efficiency stats and AWD-e status are beautifully displayed on a 4.2-inch driver information dashboard. The system will monitor and track your savings and keep an eco-diary for you. An all-new heads-up display, which includes speed and a hybrid system indicator, is now projected in the driver's line-of-sight. This means their eyes no longer need to leave the road. Entertainment on the Open Road The 2019 Prius also includes several exceptional entertainment features to keep all your passengers happy on that grand road trip. The Entune media bundle includes a touch-screen display, two USB ports, iPod connectivity, music streaming, and Siri Eyes Free. Bluetooth hands-free phone capabilities are also standard on this year's model release. The new AWD-e Prius is a buzz-worthy move for Toyota. If you'd like to see it in action, stop by for a test drive. You can also browse our inventory online. We hope to see you soon! Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

The Chazen Museum of Art, located at 750 University Ave. on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, is home to the second-largest art collection in Wisconsin, with more than 20,000 artworks. A 2011 expansion nearly doubled the museum's size to 176,000 square feet, so there's plenty to see and do. more What to See The Chazen's collection of paintings comes from several time periods, starting with European works from the 1300s. Paintings from American and Latin American artists up to the post-World War II era are also on display, including those of Wisconsin's John Wilde, considered a master of magic realism. The museum's sculpture collection includes ancient Egyptian and Roman artifacts; the museum's oldest item is a relief fragment from Egypt's Fifth Dynasty. The collection encompasses Europe, Southeast Asia, India, Pakistan, and 20th-century America. Drawings and watercolors range from preparatory drawings done by European masters in the 1500s to American, Japanese, and Chinese works from the 1900s. The Chazen has a large collection of 18th-century British watercolors and drawings done by Russian sculptor Antoine Pevsner in the first half of the 20th century. Examples of printmaking, showing the progression of woodcuts, engraving, and etching, extend from the 1400s through the present day. The Chazen hosts the archive of the university's publishing print shop. The photographic collection, mostly from the 1950s through the 1980s, includes examples from journalistic photographers and snapshots of street scenes, as well as photos as part of a mixed-media process. The applied and decorative arts collection runs the gamut, from fifth-century Byzantine floor mosaics and other architectural embellishments to ancient coins, Native American baskets to African jewelry, Greek and Etruscan vases to Chinese porcelain, and furniture from the 18th to the 20th century. Sunday Cinematheque at the Chazen The Chazen offers a variety of programs that go beyond the artwork. Sunday Cinematheque at the Chazen presents an occasional series of feature films and archival videos presented in the 160-seat auditorium. Educational videos are also shown on selected Thursdays. Sunday Afternoon Live at the Chazen is a monthly concert series held the first Sunday of each month (except January) in the Brittingham Gallery III, with about 100 seats available on a first-come basis. The concerts are also streamed on the internet. Bridge Poetry Series Events Twice a year, the Bridge Poetry Series brings about a dozen Wisconsin poets together to write and recite ekphrastic poems, bringing to words images of the painted artwork in the galleries. Activities for Children The Chazen holds a number of events aimed at children, helping them to learn about art, culture, and history. These include storytelling, poetry reading, dramatic re-enactments, dancing, music, drawing, bead-making, and stenciling. Special Events University faculty, curators, artists, and visiting scholars often take part in lectures or panel discussions that are open to the public. Artists sometimes provide demonstrations of specific techniques. Galas, receptions, and other events are also regularly scheduled, some focused on specific occasions or exhibits. Special university events are often arranged to expose U-W students to the museum's artworks. Perhaps the best thing about the Chazen Museum? It's free to the public. It's open Tuesday through Sunday. Drop-in guided tours are available on Sundays at 2 p.m. and Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.   “ Mom Chazen Museum of Art 2016 Spring Break TripApril 03, 2016 6” via Flickr by stevendepolo. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Why settle for an ordinary crossover when you could reach into the realm of extraordinary? Boost your vehicle game when you upgrade to the 2019 Toyota CH-R. This automobile not only boasts the perfect amalgam of style and performance but also comes in at quite the affordable price. We've summed up our favorite aspects of the CH-R so you can tell if it's the right crossover for you. Exterior Styling What truly helps the 2019 Toyota CH-R stand out from the rest of the pack is its aesthetic exterior appearance. The diamond-like styling creates precision-cut edges and lines that pop on the road. C-pillar door handles provide easy access to rear seating while creating the illusion of a sporty coupe. Moving to the back of the car, you'll find a cantilevered rear spoiler for a boost in attitude that highlights the vehicle's unique form. Available 18-inch alloy wheels provide even more spunk, while the unique cluster LED halogen headlights will keep the road illuminated no matter the outdoor conditions. more Interior Opulence While the 2019 Toyota CH-R might have the look and feel of a sports car on the outside, the inside resembles more of a luxury car. Available leather-trimmed seats keep you cozy on long rides, while the available leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob further contribute to the aura of excellence. Dual-zone climate control is standard, which will keep both the driver and passengers happy, while available heated front seats make winters far more tolerable. Modern Tech The Toyota CH-R has everything and more you might expect from a car being released in 2019. The standard 8-inch touch screen allows you to control both Apple CarPlay and Entune 3.0 App Suite features. Of course, your primary focus should be on driving, and the 4.2-inch multi-information display keeps you aware of all pertinent road data, such as the outside temperature, your average miles per hour, and more. Do you park on busy alleys and side streets? If so, you'll love the available auto-folding outside mirrors, which bend in at the touch of a button so an errant driver doesn't knock them off. Another coveted feature is the push-button start system, which eliminates the need for you to fumble with your keys when your fingers are frozen from being out in the cold. Safety Specs Toyota's are renowned for their safety, and the 2019 CH-R is no different. It comes standard with 10 airbags throughout the cabin to protect the driver and passengers. Also standard is the Star Safety System, which includes a wide array of advanced safety technologies to prevent you from getting in a crash. For more protection, add blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert to help you know when a vehicle is close to your car when you're backing up or changing lanes. As you can see, the 2019 Toyota CH-R deserves every accolade that's been thrown its way. To see this car for yourself and determine whether it meets your needs, check out our online inventory or stop by Smart Toyota today for a test drive. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

As the chill of winter sets in, you need something to help you stay warm. Why not turn to the cozy embrace of a cup of steaming hot chocolate? Luckily, Madison is replete with numerous cafes and coffee shops offering this delectable treat. Stop by one of the following establishments to warm your belly while satiating your tongue. Madison Chocolate Company Head to Madison Chocolate Company for a cafe that specializes in all things chocolate. While their specialties are truffles and baked goods, that doesn't stop them from offering one of the best cups of liquid chocolate in the entire city. And that's exactly how many patrons describe these thick, gooey beverages — as liquid chocolate. They are a take on the European style of hot chocolate, where chunks of chocolate are literally melted into a drink. In other words, these cocoa libations are a must-try. Madison Chocolate Company is located at 729 Glenway St., and they're open every day of the week for varying hours. more Moka With three locations throughout the Madison area, Moka is the perfect place to stop if you need a respite from the chilly outdoor air. Step inside this quaint cafe and place an order for the seasonal peppermint white hot chocolate with a dash of cinnamon. This drink will warm both your body and mind as you slowly unwind after a long day in the cold. Don't worry if you have picky kids along with you, as Moka also serves up more traditional hot chocolate that's served warm, instead of hot, to prevent accidental burns. Stop by 2910 E. Washington Ave., 5227 University Ave., or 7402 Mineral Point Rd. any day of the week to grab your hot chocolate to go. The Java Den The Java Den is your standard local cafe, offering up numerous espresso drinks, handcrafted frappes, and Rishi Tea. However, where they truly excel is their hot chocolate. Instead of the usual milk chocolate, they use dark chocolate paired with steamed milk and topped with whipped cream for a delightful midday pick-me-up. Pair your hot chocolate with one of their muffins, scones, or cinnamon rolls for a complete sugary meal, or go the healthy route with sandwiches and salads from nearby La Brioche. The Java Den is closed on the weekends, so it's a good place to stop if you need a little warmth on your way to or coming home from work. The store is located at 1022 W. Johnson St. Cafe Domestique Cafe Domestique doubles as a thriving coffee shop and bike cafe, offering a home for all of Madison's cyclists to gather and talk shop. Their hot chocolate comes in a respectable 12-ounce size and features a rich, creamy texture. To double up on your chocolate consumption, try pairing it with a chocolate chip cookie for added flavor. Stop by 1408 Williamson St. any day of the week to take advantage of all this great cafe has to offer. Madison is truly a hot spot for all things chocolate. Capitalize on this during the next cold day by stopping at one of these locations that offer the best hot chocolate in the city.   “ Hot Chocolate with Cinamon” via Flickr by Theo Crazzolara. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Winter can be tough, especially in the northern parts of the country. Don't be afraid of what the season will bring this year when you get behind the wheel of one of Toyota's well-equipped vehicles. Here are four 2019 Toyota models that are winter ready. 2019 4Runner As Toyota's top off-roading vehicle, the 2019 4Runner is loaded with capabilities that make it totally ready for driving through winter storms and snowy streets. Opt for the TRD Pro trim level for the most capability. Features like the multi-terrain select system give you total control as you take on wet or snowy roads. This system has four different driving modes to choose from; each adjusts the braking pressure and engine throttle for ideal traction in each situation. Mode options go from light to heavy with the turn of a dial. more 2019 Highlander The 2019 Toyota Highlander is ideal for winter roads and inclement weather thanks to its available dynamic torque-control all-wheel-drive system. Engine power is perfectly distributed between the front and rear wheels, while braking is distributed between the left and right wheels for total grip and control. Exterior features like puddle lights and automatic high beams light the way as the days get shorter. The available smart entry system will detect when you're approaching the vehicle and turn on puddle lights on the bottom of the side mirrors. Automatic high beams turn off when approaching an oncoming vehicle to keep the dark roads safer. 2019 Sequoia With the space, power, and performance featured in the 2019 Sequoia, you can have peace of mind as you take the entire family out for a drive in the winter. A 5.7-liter V-8 engine gives you 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque for plenty of power to get through deep snow. Multi-mode four-wheel drive lets you choose among four-wheel drive low and high ranges and two-wheel drive. When you don't need traction, stay in two-wheel drive for better fuel efficiency. When you need to engage the Torsen limited slip differential, turn on four-wheel-drive easily. Bring along up to seven passengers or fold down the rear seats for 120.1 cubic feet of cargo space. You'll even be able to haul your favorite toys through bad weather with 7,400 pounds of towing capacity and trailer sway control. No matter what precious cargo you have on board or in tow, the 2019 Sequoia will keep it safe. 2019 Land Cruiser The 2019 Land Cruiser combines space and off-road capability for a Toyota model that's ready to take everybody out for a winter adventure. A multi-terrain monitor shows your surroundings on a 9-inch navigation screen so you can see any upcoming obstacles. The Cruiser's limited-slip differential sends power to the wheels with the most grip in each situation. Come by Smart Toyota today to see our selection of new Toyota vehicles that are ready to take on the winter weather. Our staff will be happy to show you our most equipped vehicles and get you out for some test drives. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Wisconsin is a state with plenty to offer for tourists and locals alike. It's the birthplace of Harley Davidson and home to some of the best and most diverse breweries in the country, but nothing symbolizes what the state has to offer better than its famous cheese. With around 60 artisan makers and over 600 different types of cheese, it's an enthusiast's dream. Here are the places around Madison, Wisconsin, where you can get the finest cheese. more Fromagination This classic-looking shop with a European feel was opened back in 2007 by a local cheese lover who wanted to showcase the wonderful local cheesemaking traditions. Visitors not only get to fill their bags and stomachs with diverse and incredibly tasty dairy products but are also taken on a journey of discovery. They get to see where and how everything is made but also learn about the people who make all those delicious Midwestern treats. The vast variety of cheese types means that not only is there something here for everyone, but you may also discover new favorites among the cheeses that you haven't tried yet. Fromagination has cheese that's made out of cow, goat, or sheep milk, as well as other varieties such as cheddar cheese or traditional Dutch Gouda cheese. They also haven't forgotten about lovers of smelly cheese, with a nice selection of aromatic delights. L'Etoile Restaurant Aside from places where you can buy cheese to eat at home, restaurants that cook delicious meals using local farm-produced ingredients also should not be missed. L'Etoile is a perfect example of such a place. This charming restaurant uses over 200 local suppliers for their meat, fruits, vegetables, and of course, dairy products. L'Etoile is proud to offer many different types and flavors of cheese produced by local artisan cheese makers, having established many fruitful relationships over the years. The restaurant's bar offers cheese plates for anyone to try, featuring styles and flavors such as nutty cave-aged cheeses, creamy blues, or fresh chèvres. The Speckled Hen Inn If you're in a hurry you stop by a cheese shop and if you have some time you visit a cheese-oriented restaurant. However, for a truly authentic Wisconsin cheese tasting experience, it's best that you spend at least one night in a local bed and breakfast. The Speckled Hen Inn is a great place for that and, aside from the charming guest rooms and breathtaking natural décor, they're also famous for their delicious breakfast exclusively made with locally grown ingredients. Everything is local or homemade, from the fresh eggs delivered by the Inn's own hens to the fresh fruit and vegetables grown in their garden. Obviously, this includes a wonderful variety of cheeses produced by the area's very own skillful artisans. Wisconsin's history and traditions make it a wonderful place to live and to visit. However, you can't say you have fully experienced what the state has to offer until you try some of the many different types of delicious locally produced cheese, so get out there in a vehicle from Smart Motors Toyota and experience all of the beautiful cheese that Wisconsin has to offer.   “ Cheese” via Flickr by Steam Pipe Trunk Distribution Venue. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Madison Lakes to Explore People in and around Madison, Wisconsin, are blessed with plenty of natural and man-made local attractions that provide hours of fun for the entire family. One of those local attractions is the Madison Chain of Lakes, where people can enjoy fun outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, or swimming, among many others. Lake Mendota With almost 26 miles of shoreline, Mendota is the largest lake in the area and the eight largest in all of Wisconsin. Although it generates plenty of traffic around it thanks to the many attractions it provides, the lake has managed to maintain its natural look and feel, providing the perfect escape from the busy and noisy city life. If fishing is one of your hobbies this is one of the best places to catch fish in the entire state, with walleye, northern pike, and big smallmouth bass all available. Over the years the place's reputation as an excellent place for fishing has constantly grown, up to the point where the local Department of Natural Resources had to enforce regulations to help sustain the fish population. Despite that, it's still the go-to place for anglers in the area. more Lake Monona Madison's second largest lake is also usually calmer than Mendota, making it accessible for more water activities. Fishing is also a viable option and its well-developed shores offer great trails for runners and bikers. It also carries a sad story, being the place where soul singer Otis Redding died in an airplane accident when he was on route to perform in Madison. Lake Waubesa Offering a beautiful natural setting only minutes away from downtown Madison, Waybesa is a popular destination. It has a surface area of a little over 2,000 acres and offers locals a beautiful public beach as well as boating opportunities. It also hosts many lake homes and the trails around it provide great adventures for cyclists. Lake Wingra Almost entirely surrounded by woods, Lake Wingra is uniquely beautiful and offers plenty of things to enjoy. Next to the lake, you'll find the University of Wisconsin – Madison Arboretum and Henry Vilas Park and Zoo, while water sports lovers can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards from shops nearby. The nearby scenery offers a serene landscape and yoga classes are held here in the summer. Lake Kegonsa The most Southern of the area's five lakes, Kegonsa is a 3,200-acre lake that's mostly surrounded by houses and farmland. The best place for visitors is its northeast shore, where Lake Kegonsa State Park can be found. Much less populated and crowded than the other lakes, Kegonsa is a perfect place for visitors that want to completely get away from all the stress and noise of modern life and get reacquainted with everything Mother Nature has to offer. From fishing to watersports, runs, bike rides, or simply nature watching, each of the five lakes around Madison provides a different experience for tourists and locals. Only a short drive away in an incredible vehicle from Smart Motors Toyota, they offer countless opportunities for entertainment, exploration, and relaxation for anyone who visits them. The dealership is located in Madison near Sun Prairie & Middleton. “ Short Walk Off a Log Pier” via Flickr by Phil Roeder. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The Madison, Wisconsin area is full of fun activities and events for visitors of all ages. The best part is that Madison also has a ton of free entertainment, allowing you to stay active with the family without breaking the bank. Whether you live in or around the Madison area, make sure to check out some of the best free activities you can enjoy. University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum The arboretum is over 1,200 acres of woodlands, savannahs, prairies, gardens, wetlands, and ecological communities showing all the beauty that the Madison area has to offer. Visitors are free to explore the area, and there are over 20 miles of trails that can be used for hiking and biking in the nice weather and skiing and snowshoeing when the snow begins to fall. more Madison Museum of Contemporary Art The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art offers free admission for visitors to get in from the cold and enjoy some amazing works of art or just take a stroll to find a little inspiration. The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Cesar Pelli and is known for its multiple learning opportunities for all ages and learning levels. You can enjoy various exhibits, film screenings, and special events throughout the year. Wisconsin State Capitol You can learn a little about the history of the area and enjoy the beautiful design of the historic Wisconsin State Capitol. The building is the only one in the United States with a granite dome. It's home to the state Legislature, the office of the Governor, and the state Supreme Court. You can enjoy free tours of the building to get an up-close view of the beautiful marble architecture and ornate mosaics. Kids in the Rotunda With free shows running every Saturday through April, the Kids in the Rotunda is held in the Overture Center for the Arts and offers free programs and performances designed for both children and their families. There are so many activities and shows to see such as magicians, dancers, a theater troupe, local and diverse musicians, storytellers, and jugglers. Madison Public Library The Madison Public Library has free admission all year-round, and you can also get a library card for free to check out books and use the computers. The library is designed to be family friendly with special unique reading nooks and The Bubble, which is an artist's studio where your kids can let loose and allow their imagination to soar. UW-Madison Geology Museum Another Madison area museum that offers free admission throughout the year is the University of Wisconsin-Madison Geology Museum. The museum is filled with unique geological displays such as meteorites, rocks, minerals, and even a fluorescent display. Children can also learn while enjoying dinosaur and fossil exhibits. The museum offers both self and guided tours as well as storytelling times. Keep your kids active when the cold weather comes without having to stretch your budget by enjoying one or more of the free activities that the Madison area has to offer.   “ Madison” via Flickr by Spiterman. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

Although nowadays you can find any type of food you want by simply visiting your local supermarket, there's something uniquely satisfying about getting them directly from those who grow them. Farmers markets are a growing business in the United States because more and more people want to get locally-grown, organic food. Here are the best places in and around Madison, Wisconsin, where you can get your food directly from the people who grow it. more Eastside Farmers' Market Arguably the finest weekday farmers' market in Madison, Eastside Farmers' Market is open every Tuesday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., from April 24th to Oct. 30th. There's also a winter market, available between Nov. 6th and Dec. the 18th. From the moment it opened back in 2002 in Madison's Central Park, this farmers' market has been entirely run and managed by its own vendors and has delivered fresh food to the people on the east side of Madison. There's a wide variety of vendors and you can get anything from naturally grown and fed meat, to honey, cheese, mushrooms, and of course plenty of fruit and vegetables from local farms. There's even a bakery, selling naturally-leavened, long-fermented breads made out of locally grown ingredients. El Mercadito De Centro Right in the parking lot of the Centro Hispano, you will find this special farmers' market run by the local Latino community. It's a different experience compared to other farmers' markets, being similar to the mercaditos you usually find in Latin America. They're open every Sunday from June 13th to Sept. 29th. It's also an entertaining experience for the entire family, with live cooking demonstrations, dance and musical performances, as well as fun activities for children. They also show family movies in Spanish every month, with subtitles available. If you're looking to buy natural, locally grown food but also have a fun Sunday afternoon, this is the perfect setting. Dane County Farmers' Market Located on the Capitol Square, this is reportedly the largest producer-only farmers' market in the entire U.S.A. Open all year round, this is where you'll find a huge variety of fruit, vegetables, cheese, meats, and different specialty products from over 275 local vendors. Aside from its size, what makes this farmers' market special is that there's no reselling allowed, meaning that the person sitting behind the stand who's selling you the food is the same person who grew it. You'll get first-hand knowledge of the food you buy by asking questions about it directly to the person that's most qualified to answer them. It also creates a special connection between local growers and the Madison community. In these industrialized and globalized times, everyone needs certain things in their lives to keep them grounded and connect them with the local community. Farmers' markets do exactly that, connecting local producers to the people who enjoy the fruits of their labor. It's a win-win situation, where producers can get the reward for their hard labor throughout the year and the community can enjoy fresh, natural, and delicious foods. Image via Pixabay by bogitw. Used with permission via CC0 1.0 / cropped from original

Over the years, Toyota has been on the lead, assembling top-notch cars. The Toyota brand enjoys the preference of a vast majority due to its complete package of style and strength in its new compact High Rider crossover. The C-HR premium brand, first launched in 2018, features an athletic stance and agile handling that makes it a unique and outstanding brand. Here are five reasons to choose the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium. Interior Comfort and Convenience The C-HR Premium interior is generally stylish. Behind its steering wheel is a 4.2-inch color multi-information display that shows data such as the trip mileage, total mileage, and the outside temperature. Its 6-way driver seat and 6-way passenger seat include Height Adjustment and Manual Recline that provide more convenience. Once inside, you are further surrounded by model soft-touch comforts such as a satin-plated shift knob and leather-trimmed steering wheel. It is needless to worry about the hot summers and cold winters as the vehicle's dual-zone take cares of it all. more Safety The 2018 C-HR XLE Premium model features a Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P) package which has numerous features such as lane-departure alert, pedestrian detection pre-collision system, dynamic radar cruise control for full speed range, and automatic high beams. Its cluster LED daytime running lights, and projector-beam halogen headlights create a pathway of light that covers a great distance, making your driving convenient and safe at any time of the day. The model also has features like a blind spot monitor, lane-keeping assist, electronic stability control, integrated turn signal mirrors, and child safety locks to further your safety while on the road. Technology The C-HR Premium has Entune 3.0 software housed in the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.  This Entune software features Apple CarPlay support and Bluetooth streaming, enabling it to funnel sound through six speakers. Moreover, the technology employed in this model also features an HD radio, auxiliary audio jack, phonebook access, and hands-free phone capability that collectively make your driving encounter full of fun. Don't forget that its Bluetooth wireless technology enables you to stream music while driving. Mechanical The vehicle has a wide array of mechanical features that make it suitable for your needs. First is the presence of a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT), an automatic transmission that can seamlessly change through a range of useful gear ratios. Even with a varying output speed, the CTV enables the input shaft to retain the angular velocity. Additionally, the model features single stainless steel exhaust, rear and front anti-roll bars, Gas-pressured shock absorbers, and battery rundown protection among other unique mechanical features. Exterior The exterior of the 2018 C-HR XLE model is as good as its interior. Just right below the cargo area, a compact spare tire is mounted. The tire enables you to replace a wheel in case of deflation while on the road. It also has fully galvanized steel panels and variable intermittent wipers. Its clear coat paint makes it so beautiful and attractive. Collectively, the interior, safety, technological, mechanical, and exterior features make the 2018 Toyota C-HR XLE Premium an outstanding model. Look no further. At only $24,360 starting MSRP, you can drive a 2018 C-HR Premium vehicle with these unique features. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Madison is a beautiful place to call home, thanks to its scenic views and community-oriented atmosphere. Even so, life in this Wisconsin city can get stressful at times, just like it can anywhere else. For times such as those, you should consider letting all your stress fade away during a nice spa day. In the city, you'll find quite a few different options for your spa day, with each of them offering a memorable experience that's sure to leave you feeling relaxed and satisfied. Check out these three feel-good places for a relaxing spa experience in Madison, and learn more about each location. more 1. Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa Open seven days a week to reservations and walk-ins alike, the Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa just might be your go-to location for stress relief and relaxation. They offer massages, facials, and spa treatments that will have you looking and feeling your best. You can even find a couple's massage here, as well as a one-hour pumpkin facial special offer available for a limited time in the fall. When you step inside this spa, you'll notice the welcoming atmosphere right away. The entire experience is uniquely tailored to your individual needs. Your time starts with a medical questionnaire to ensure you stay safe, followed by a one-on-one consultation with a professional massage therapist. Once your needs have been established, your personalized spa experience will begin, and you're always free to make requests for alterations at any time. 2. Indulge Spa When you stop by Indulge Spa, you'll enter a world that's designed to nurture both your health and your beauty. While you can find common services like massage therapy and skin care here, Indulge Spa also offers body and nail treatments for that extra bit of relaxation. You can always be sure your treatment is up-to-date with all the latest trends. The atmosphere at Indulge Spa is designed to invigorate all your senses, give you a harmonizing experience, and to elevate the mental clarity so many often lack in their everyday lives. Treatments here are specially crafted for the individual to maximize both the mind and body benefit, leaving you feeling fresh and more beautiful than ever before. Balancing the mind and body is the mission at Indulge Spa, and they always deliver. 3. The Haven Spa Since 2003, The Haven Spa has been a comforting getaway from the hustle and bustle of Madison. With a focus on comfort and safety since its inception, this spa has proven itself to be an excellent choice for people looking for a relaxing experience — especially if it's their first time going to the spa. You'll find a variety of services here, including massage therapy, facials, and even waxing and eyelash extensions. The professional massage team has years of experience customizing their services to clients' unique needs. Using Phytoceane for facial services and other techniques that have been proven to be effective, you'll be well on your way to renewed health and well-being. If you're looking for a relaxing retreat in Madison, any of these spa experiences will help you purge the stress from your body and put you on the path to wellness. And if you need a reliable and relaxing way to get to the spa, come to visit us at Smart Motors Toyota, and we'll help you find the stylish and comfortable vehicle that fits you and your lifestyle. We proudly serve customers throughout the greater Madison area, including Middleton, Sun Prairie, and beyond. “ Massage 21 b/w” via Flickr by Kirsty Topping. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original