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A white 2019 toyota tundra driving down a dusty road.

4 Features You'll Appreciate in the 2019 Toyota Tundra

Anything that looks good is worth showing off. The end of 2018 is fast approaching, and the 2019 Toyota Tundra model is keenly beckoning potential buyers. The model provides an excellent example of the word 'tough.' Properly equipped Tundras have overbuilt drivetrain and 5.7-liter V-8 engines, enabling them to haul over 10,000 lbs. With Toyota's different grades such as the 1794 Edition and Tundra Premium, you can tow all this cargo in style and with ease. True strength endures, and Toyota once again proves it. To keep a forward match, Toyota's 2019 Tundra model has some advanced features that you will appreciate. more Interior In both crew-cab and extended-cab Tundras, there is plenty of space that can comfortably accommodate five to six passengers. Its SR5 model has air conditioning with pollen and dust air filter to keep your drive comfortable. The front passenger and the driver have their surrounding temperature adjusted thanks to the single temperature setting. Virtually all the Tundra models have 60/40 split fold-up rear seats, and TFT Multi-Information Display with Odometer that collectively adds to your comfort while in the vehicle.  Front and rear bottle and cup holders keep your drinks in position as you drive. Safety The 2019 Toyota Tundra's safety system includes traction control, brake assist, vehicle stability control, smart stop technology, and an anti-lock brake system with electronic brake-force distribution. Many models also include integrated backup cameras. Its 3-point seatbelts are available for all seating positions. For additional safety and convenience, the model has driver-side emergency locking retractor and emergency/automatic locking retractors on all passenger seatbelts. It is also notable that the driver and front passenger seatbelt pretensioners inhibit force limiters. The 2019 Toyota Tundra also features a modern anti-theft system with Glass Breakage Sensor, engine immobilizer, and an alarm. No more worry for the safety of your truck once parked. Technology Most Tundra versions have a 7-inch touchscreen armed with an HD radio, voice recognition, CD player, USB and auxiliary ports, Siri Eyes Free,  and satellite radio, making them techno-savvy and trendy. The brand's higher trims feature embedded navigation with weather and traffic updates. They also have a JBL audio system with 12 speakers that enable you to enjoy some cool background music. Performance The 2019 Toyota Tundra engine is either 4.6-liter Aluminum i-Force V-8 or 5.7-liter Aluminum V-8 with DOHC 32-Valve Cylinder heads. It features an electronic ignition system with Toyota Direct Ignition (TDI). Advanced models of Toyota Tundra also have heavy-duty alternators and heavy-duty batteries for better performance. The vehicle further has 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with intelligence, downhill/uphill shift logic, and sequential shift mode. Being a Low Emission Vehicle II with a standard stainless steel exhaust system, the 2019 Toyota Tundra is a top performer. In conclusion, the 2019 Toyota Tundra comes in six trims. With as little as $31,420; you can drive home the SR model of Tundra. Alternatively, if additional features such as 18-inch forged BBS wheels, standard sunroof, and LED daytime running lights matter to you, you can dig deeper into your pocket and drive home the Tundra TRD Pro at $49,645. Between these two extremes lie four other models. Visit Smart Toyota today to browse our current Tundra inventory! We proudly serve drivers throughout the Madison, WI area, including Middleton, Sun Prairie, and beyond. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A sign saying "Welcome Great Pumpkin" posted in a pumpkin patch.

The Stage is Set for Halloween Happenings in and Around Madison

Halloween is getting closer and closer, and the city of Madison, Wisconsin, is more than prepared for this exciting holiday. As a kid, Halloween plans were easy to come up with. All you did was go trick-or-treating, but as someone older, you have a lot of options for how you want to spend that spooky night. Here's a look at some of the best Halloween happenings in and around Madison. Screamin' Acres If you're a fan of haunted houses, Screamin' Acres might be exactly what you've been looking for. There are five distinct attractions here that are sure to fill you with thrills and chills. The Slaughter Haus is the most brutal experience, as you navigate the shop of a deranged butcher. Crawl Space puts you in some tight situations that may leave more claustrophobic visitors running the other way. For a more visual experience, The Last Resort puts you in contact with some of the most interesting — and most twisted — personalities around. Meanwhile, the Side Effects experience offers a 3-D journey that will show you a new definition of weird. Finally, for one night only, the Screamin' Acres experience can be enjoyed with just a simple flashlight to light your way during their Blackout event on Nov. 3. more Freak Fest Nothing offers an experience quite like a music festival, and Freak Fest manages to blend the best parts of Halloween and music together in one spectacular event. For six hours, you can enjoy over 15 artists, both local and national, playing across three different stages until about 1:30 in the morning. You'll find this music festival happening on State Street on Saturday, Oct. 27. State Street has become particularly popular due to the numerous bars and restaurants located there, but ever since the festival's inception in 2006, State Street has taken extra safety precautions for Halloween night. With plenty of security and a prohibition on weapons, you can enjoy the music worry-free. Chamber of Horrors The Chamber of Horrors at Thunder Ridge Mansion has been a staple of the Wisconsin haunted house scene for 11 years, and this is its final season. You can be sure these scare experts are going out with a bang, so don't miss out on anything this Fall River attraction can offer. While there will be plenty of scares, you can also take pleasure in knowing that this entire attraction is benefiting the local Fall River Chamber of Commerce, which helps local commercial and civic interests. Experiencing this haunted house is best when you don't know what to expect. Just know that the Chamber of Horrors has been voted to be the best haunted attraction in southwestern Wisconsin more than once. Are you brave enough to venture through this house of agony and madness to face the undead that await? You can embark on your journey every Friday and Saturday in October. The Halloween season offers unique attractions you won't find any other time of year in and around Madison, Wisconsin. Whether you're looking to be scared at a haunted house or just dance the night away at a music festival, this city has more than enough to make your Halloween the best one yet.   “ The Halloween Spirit” via Flickr by JD Hancock. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Two 2018 Toyota Camry's parked in a grassy field.

Check Out the 4 Awesome New Features of the 2018 Camry

The Camry remains one of Toyota's top-selling cars. The 2018 model, however, looks much different than the Camry you are probably familiar with. It is redesigned and boasts new features that are worth exploring. more Power The 2018 Toyota Camry has three new engine choices. The standard choice is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 206 horsepower. You can upgrade for a little more power to the available 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 208 horsepower. For maximum power, opt for the available 3.5-liter V-6 engine that kicks out 301 horsepower. There is also a hybrid option available. The changes do not stop with the engine. You are also likely to notice an increased performance when compared to previous models, due to a tighter chassis and new double-wishbone style suspension. A brand-new eight-speed automatic transmission is also featured in all 2018 Camry trim levels. The SE and XSE trim levels get an added sporty performance with upgraded leather paddle shifters. Exterior Design The 2018 Camry does not only sport a new engine setup, but also an upgraded exterior. The entire body frame is different — lower to the ground and longer than it was before. The exterior also boasts new, sleek lines that run throughout the length of the body, as well as a larger front grille. This new exterior design does not only improve the overall look of the car, but it also gives it an upgraded aerodynamic performance. Interior Design The interior of the 2018 Toyota Camry has taken on a bolder look. You can opt for the bright Tarantino red soft-touch leather seats for a unique look that makes a statement. The rest of the interior is designed with leather and wood accent points. The 2018 Camry did hold onto one of its most appealing features though — its spaciousness.  This large sedan can handle up to 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space and also features additional storage compartments throughout the interior of the cabin. The 2018 Camry stays current with the latest technological advancements, offering a 7-inch Bluetooth-capable Entune 3 system. This touch-screen infotainment system gives the driver easy access to the vehicle's most important controls. There is also an 8-inch Entune 3 system available. Safety Toyota has made it a point to offer standard safety features in all of its newer cars. The 2018 Toyota Camry comes standard with 10 interior airbags, anti-lock brakes, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. The brighter LED headlights improve visibility, while also giving the Camry a more modern look. Optional safety upgrades include blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic warning system, and a 360-degree camera system. The advanced clearance sonar feature continually monitors the area surrounding the Camry. If a potential collision is identified, it can activate the brakes, bringing you to a stop much sooner. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has already rated the 2018 Toyota Camry as one of its top safety picks. With more powerful engine choices, a luxury interior, and a stylish design, the Toyota Camry refresh is quite impressive. Come by Smart Toyota today to test-drive the popular 2018 Toyota Camry.   “ 2018 Toyota Camry Lunch-Ride-Drive “ via Flickr by Carsfera.com. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

A beautifully laid farm-to-table buffet service.

4 Unbeatable Farm to Table Dining Experiences in Madison

Farm-to-table dining is a trending food experience that uses only the freshest ingredients to create a delicious meal. The thriving local farming industry in Madison, Wisconsin, makes this a great place to try some of the best farm-to-table dining experiences. 1. Graze Graze has successfully created a unique dining experience that pairs the high culinary expectations of New York City-inspired meals with the fresh ingredients that can only be found in a small farming town. Graze is also community-focused, aiming to provide Madison locals with a comfortable and welcoming spot to gather and enjoy good food together. Because of this, many of the menu items are family-style, allowing you to try multiple flavors and share with your neighbors. Be sure to try the Dill Pickle Deviled Eggs, the Pork Buns, or the Beet and Walnut Burger. Graze is also willing to incorporate any dietary restrictions or preferences. more 2. Old Feed Mill Old Feed Mill is just a short drive outside of Madison and offers diners a unique country-inspired menu that is sure to remind you of your favorite home-cooked meals. Most of the ingredients are sourced from local farmers and the bread is baked daily on the premises. Just a few of the must-try items on the menu include a Tender Pot Roast, Cider Roasted Chicken, and Chicken Pot Pie. Make sure you save room for dessert. The Old Feed Mill bread pudding is made with fresh honey wheat bread, topped with raisins, walnuts, and a rich warm caramel sauce. 3. Merchant Madison Merchant Madison has a simple goal: to provide the locals of Madison with fresh ingredients, simple cooking, and American-inspired craft cocktails. This casual farm-to-table restaurant works directly with local Madison farmers to create a menu that is simple, yet delectable. You are also able to buy any of the liquor, wine, and beer displayed on their drinks menu at their liquor store and enjoy it at home. Their new American menu includes items like the Pan Seared Mahi-Mahi and Steak Frites. Come by on Tuesday nights for Cheap Date Night. For just $40, diners can order two entrees, a full bottle of wine, and a dessert to share. On Saturdays, Merchant Madison serves farmer's market-fresh brunch until 3 p.m. 4. Harvest Harvest is a lovely American-Italian restaurant that also collects all of its ingredients from local farmers. They have won many awards, including a top award for Wisconsin farm-to-table restaurants. The menu is constantly changing in order to offer ingredients and dishes that are fresh and in season. Just a few of the items that you will find on the menu include the Pan Seared Scallops and the Vegetarian Seared Artichoke. Dessert is a must at Harvest, and it includes delectable items such as Orange Chiffon Cake or Carandale Farm Persimmon Ice Cream. Harvest is only open for dinner, opening at 5:30 p.m. until close every day of the week and they are closed on all major holidays. Experience some of the best farm-to-table restaurants in Madison, WI. With fresh ingredients and constantly changing menus, each of these restaurants is sure to provide you with a memorable dining experience. “ Farm to Table TERRA – Presented by snow peak. “ via Flickr by mujitra. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The interior of a 2018 Toyota Avalon.

Why You'll Love the 2018 Avalon's Interior

As the winner of the 2018 best large car for the money by U.S. News and World Report, the 2018 Toyota Avalon provides you with a relaxing ride thanks to a comfortable interior. Each of the five available trim levels (XLE, XLE Plus, XLE Premium, Touring, and XLE Limited) come with their own comfortable amenities, so keep reading to learn more about the Avalon's interior. Luxury Features The 2018 Toyota Avalon provides you with many luxurious features. The XLE trim comes with dual-zone climate control, while the XLE Plus gives you additional light via a moonroof. The XLE Premium provides you with memory settings for the driver's seat, so if more than one person regularly drives the car, you can set the seat to automatically resume to your preferred location. The XLE Limited trim has tri-zone automatic climate control. more Seating The heart of the Avalon's interior is its seating and high-quality craftsmanship. Toyota updated the interior and added contours to the 2018 models. It also features side bolsters to keep you secure in the seat when rounding sharp corners. The 2018 Avalon comes standard with leather upholstery and heated front seats. You also get an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat. The top-line XLE Limited features a variety of upgrades, including perforated leather seats, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and eight-way power-adjustable passenger seat. Space Comfortably seating five people, the Avalon affords plenty of space to stretch your legs, whether you're in the front or back seats. Those riding in the front enjoy 42.1 inches of legroom, while those in the back receive 39.2 inches of legroom. The sloping roofline also gives enough headroom for taller back-seat passengers. In addition to interior space, the vehicle affords plenty of cargo space as it boasts about 16 cubic feet of space. A power trunk comes standard, and you can easily load and remove items from the rear, thanks to the vehicle's low, wide opening. Technology The Avalon's base XLE comes with an attractive suite of user-friendly technological features. The infotainment system includes a 7-inch touch-screen display, eight-speaker audio system, Bluetooth connectivity, Siri Eyes Free, and HD radio. You can link your compatible smartphone to the vehicle to send messages and use the navigation system. The XLE Plus adds onto the standard features and includes an upgraded nine-speaker audio system. The mid-range XLE Premium gives you wireless charging for smartphones and the Entune App Suite, which lets you have quick access to apps such as iHeartRadio, OpenTable, and Pandora. While the Touring doesn't add special technology features, the XLE Limited comes with an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The 2018 Toyota Avalon includes interior amenities that make you feel like you're driving an expensive luxurious car without spending a fortune. No matter which trim you select, you'll find the interior comfortable, high-tech, and spacious. To learn more about the Avalon, or to schedule a test drive, reach out to the professionals at Smart Toyota. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

A bird flying across a stunning sunrise at Lake Medota near Madison, WI.

How to Spend a Great Day at Lake Mendota

Lake Mendota is the largest of the lakes that surround Madison, Wisconsin. Plan the perfect day trip to Lake Mendota with these exciting activities. Watch a Sunset There is a reason that the locals of Madison rave about the Lake Mendota sunsets — it is something to behold! The surrounding area contains many public picnic areas and park benches that are perfect spots from which to watch the sun set. Bring along your camera, because you are going to want to capture the sun just as it sets into the waterline. Also pack your own picnic items, or grab carry out from the nearby Mid Town Pub or The Old Fashioned restaurant. more Fishing Lake Mendota is also a popular local fishing spot. Some of the fish you will find in this large lake include crappie, walleye, bass, and bluegill. You can try your skill fishing off one of the public docks, or you can sign up for a fishing charter. Madison Fishing Charters is just one of the charters that will take you to some of the best fishing spots on Lake Mendota. They have available fishing charters for all ages and all skill levels. Also check out Lake Mendota during the winter months for ice fishing. Ensure that you register for a Wisconsin fishing license before fishing in Lake Mendota, as it is required. Boating Sometimes feeling the wind on your face is all the entertainment that you need. Whether you prefer kayaking, canoeing, or sailing along on a sailboat, Lake Mendota has it all. There are many rental places around the lake that offer day and weekly rentals. If you prefer to sit back and let someone else drive the boat, sign up for a boating experience with Betty Lou Cruises. You can also grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink on one of Betty Lou's boat charters. Grab a Bite to Eat Because Lake Mendota attracts many visitors each year, there are many delicious restaurants nearby worth trying. The Boathouse is a waterfront option that serves an American menu of burgers, brats, and craft brews. Check out The Edgewater Hotel for pier-side service. They can deliver your meal right to your boat, or you can tie your boat up at one of the piers and enjoy a waterside patio meal. They serve a menu of upscale sandwiches and burgers. Another great option, also located right on the lake, is The Mariner's Inn. From their spacious patio you can catch the famous sunset on the lake, while enjoying some of the best steak dishes in the entire area. If you need a break from the heat, be sure to check out the indoor dining room which is decorated with unique antiques. The Mariner's Inn also hosts sunset dinner cruises. Whether you have only a few available hours to explore, or you are able to spend all day, Lake Mendota is a great place to visit. You are sure to enjoy the views, entertainment, and the many food options on offer.   “ Sunrise over Lake Medota, Aug 2011” via Flickr by JimAnderson1972. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A hand fueling a car with gasoline.

How to Use Less Fuel in Your Toyota

How much fuel a car uses is based primarily on the vehicle you use. Fortunately, Toyotas have a great history of low gas mileage. Things can always be improved, though, and there are several ways in which you can reduce your consumption. By reducing the fuel quantity you use, you save a lot of money in the long run and you also contribute to a cleaner, less polluted atmosphere around you. Here are some ways you can significantly reduce your gas consumption. Not rushing when trying to drive somewhere is a good idea for a number of reasons. Not only will you have fewer chances of getting into an accident and be more relaxed at the end of your trip, but also you will have used a lot less fuel. Driving fast, aggressively putting your foot on the gas pedal, and braking at the last moment will significantly increase your fuel usage. On the other hand, being a calm driver, not going over the speed limit, and keeping sudden moves to a minimum will lower your fuel consumption by as much as 40 percent. Also, as any experienced driver will tell you, rushing through city traffic won't get you there much faster. more Watch the Car's Weight and Aerodynamics Another factor that has a significant impact on your mpg is getting rid of unnecessary items that increase the car's weight. It's very convenient to leave things like the wrench set or the golf clubs in the trunk, but over a long period of time, they will all make an impact on how much fuel you use. The car's aerodynamics also plays a major role. A cargo rack on your roof greatly increases wind resistance, making it harder for the engine to push the car forward. Open car windows or an open sunroof has the same effect. While having less impact when driving bumper to bumper, it's still a major fuel thief on long drives. Plan Your Drives and Avoid Rush Hour It may sound obvious, but it is surprising how often you take more trips than you should and drive at totally inconvenient hours. There are some things that you cannot avoid, but if you plan ahead of time, you will realize that you can be more efficient with your drives. So, look ahead at the trips you have to take and group them geographically so you have as little distance as possible between them. Whenever possible, avoid the peak hours of mornings and afternoons, those few hours when everybody's either going to work or going home from work. Idling in a traffic jam is not good for your fuel efficiency. Today's cars are getting more and more fuel efficient. Technology has brought us hybrid and electric cars. These vehicles are created with efficiency in mind and do a great job of consuming as little gas as possible. However, that doesn't mean that we shouldn't do our part in burning less fuel and making the world a cleaner place. Image via pixabay by Skitterphoto. Used with permission via CC0 1.0 / cropped from original

Three small baskets of berries (raspberries, cherries and blueberries) on a wooden table.

Pick Your Own Produce Around Madison,WI

Nowadays there's almost no fruit or vegetable that you can't find at your local supermarket. Although getting everything you need all in one place is very convenient, there's nothing like fresh produce that you choose and pick yourself. Luckily, if you live in or around Madison, Wisconsin, there are plenty of great farms where you can do exactly that. So gather your family, and head down to one of these farms. You'll find people with a strong passion for farming, and you'll discover the truth in the old saying, there's no tastier produce than what you pick yourself. more Blue Skies Farm Opened by Paul and Louise Maki back in 1991, the Blue Skies Farm has been a wonderful place to pick your fruit and vegetables ever since. Their main crop is fall raspberries, and the season where you can visit them and pick your own fruit lasts from min-August to late-September. They don't only grow raspberries, as they have a wide variety of tomatoes, tropical ginger, and turmeric. Although they are only open to the public for a short time every year, it's well worth the wait. During the rest of the year, their produce can be found at local farmers markets. Creek Bed Country Farmacy About 30 minutes North of Madison, you'll find this lovely farm that's been open to the public since 2012. Their first available produce was 20 acres of corn mazes and a huge pumpkin patch, but they have grown a lot since then. Three acres of strawberries were added in 2014, with sugar snap peas and sunflowers completing a wonderful crop. Their plans for expansion for the immediate future include adding peach and cherry orchards, so odds are this farm will become more and more popular in the years to come. The Berry Farmer A little more than 2 miles West of Baraboo, you'll find this family business that started 20 years ago. Their main crop is strawberries, and there are 10 acres of them to pick, along with some pre-picked ones for those in a hurry. The farm also has blueberries available for picking, as well as more than an acre of peas. They do a great job of keeping their crops as chemical free as possible by picking fruit varieties that are naturally resistant to pests and diseases. They constantly monitor their fields to make sure their crops are kept healthy with as little chemical assistance as possible. Apple Holler If a good apple is what you're after, then this is definitely the place for you. Apple Holler is not only a farm, but also a restaurant, gift shop, bakery, and orchard, so you have all the ingredients for a fun day with your family. Along with more than 30 different types of apples, you can also pick and enjoy a delicious variety of peaches, pears, and pumpkins. No matter what your favorite fruits and vegetables are, there are plenty of places in and around Madison where you can pick them yourself and make a fun day out of it.     “ Fresh berries on a wooden table” via Flickr by Ajithpoison. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

A silver Toyota Tundra on a snow covered road.

4 Ways the 2018 Toyota Tundra Will Streamline Your Life

Different types of cars serve different purposes, besides taking you from point A to point B. Some you buy for speed, others for off-road capabilities, some because they're a good fit for your family, and the list could go on. The same goes for trucks. When you are in the market for a truck, you have a pretty good idea of what you need: a powerful machine with lots of space for passengers and cargo. A machine that can take you, your passengers, and everything else on board to your destination as safely and as pleasantly as possible. The 2018 Toyota Tundra will do all of that and more, making your life easier in the process. more Space and Comfort The Tundra has excellent cabin space, which means five people can comfortably take a long trip without any inconvenience. Passengers get 62.6 inches of hip room, giving everyone enough space for a comfy ride. The interior is also well isolated, successfully eliminating most outside noise. The back seats can also fold, giving you even more cargo space. Power and Performance Obviously, a truck's main purpose is carrying large loads to their destination, and the 2018 Tundra handles that task admirably. From the base 4.6-liter V-8 to the beastly 5.7-liter, the Toyota engines get the job done. The excellent towing and payload carrying capabilities mean you won't have to take any unnecessary extra trips to finish the job. The top engine can successfully carry 1,730 pounds of cargo while towing an amazing 10,200 pounds. Safety One thing that applies to any vehicle, no matter its purpose, is that it has to have all the necessary systems and technology to provide as safe a ride as possible. Safety has always been one of Toyota's strong points, and that applies to its trucks as well. The 2018 Toyota Tundra benefits from Toyota Safety Sense, a safety package that includes standard emergency breaking, making it the first U.S. pickup to feature that as a standard. The Tundra also features trailer sway warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The premium package adds features such as blind spot monitoring, parking assistance, or rear cross traffic alert. Tech and Connectivity Once the basics are covered, like safety, power, or space, it doesn't hurt for a truck to have some modern tech features, and the 2018 Tundra certainly fits the bill. A 7-inch touchscreen is connected to Toyota's Entune system, providing you with important information about traffic, weather, and much more. USB and Bluetooth connectivity are also available, while the premium package also features navigation and an excellent JBL sound system. When it comes to vehicles that can make your life easier, you probably won't find any that are better than the 2018 Toyota Tundra. The excellent build quality, along with features such as plenty of space for passengers and cargo, powerful engines that get the job done, modern safety features and excellent connectivity options, all make the Tundra a great partner to have in your daily routine.     “ Silver Tundra” via Flickr by truckhardware. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Donuts

Where to Get Donuts Around Madison, WI

Donuts have a huge place in American tradition and popular culture. Although nowadays more and more people are careful about their diet, the world would be a sadder place if we didn't have our guilty pleasures. Luckily for people in or around Madison, Wisconsin, they have some amazing donut shops to choose from to satisfy their sugary needs. From chocolate glazed to vanilla, caramel or fruit flavors, you're sure to find exactly what you like, and you can be sure they're every little bit as delicious as they look. Greenbush Bakery Founded more than two decades ago by Madison locals Barb and Marv Miller, Greenbush Bakery prides itself on being the only certified kosher bakery in the entire area. Their delicious donuts, made entirely with fresh ingredients, are a hit among locals. They are so popular that supermarkets all over Wisconsin buy them wholesale so they can sell them throughout the state. more Although they have grown over the years, Greenbush Bakery never forgot the quality that all small businesses must have if they wish to succeed: hard work, good ethics, and a full dedication to customer service. They also haven't forgotten their debt to the community around them, so they do their best to support local charities. Lane's Bakery Also a family business, this local bakery was founded back in 1954. Now run by the family's third generation, they have never lost sight of their original values. First and foremost, they always only use natural ingredients, so you can be sure that processed ingredients will never take the place of real eggs and butter, at least not in this place. The best proof that Lane's Bakery makes incredible donuts is the fact that they have regular customers that have been coming for years. Most of them are on a first name basis with the owners, and they all have their favorite flavors. So if you're looking for that authentic small town local store feel in the era of supermarket chains, this place will make you feel right at home. The People's Bakery If you want amazing donuts but also a full meal, this will be the perfect place for you. Initially, it was a donut-only place, appropriately named Go Nuts for Donuts. Then, around the turn of the millennium, a change in management took place. The new owners kept the bakery's tradition of making incredibly tasty and fresh donuts but added a twist. Now, it is also an award-winning Mediterranean and Lebanese restaurant, getting top prizes year after year for its gyros and falafels. So, if you're up for a mix of traditional donuts and exotic food, this place will definitely not disappoint you, and the atmosphere will make you feel right at home. They also cater for parties and events. A fresh and tasty donut has the power to brighten someone's mood and give them the energy to navigate through the day. Luckily for the residents of Madison, a great donut is never far away. Image via Flickr by Mark Bonica /Under use by CC BY 2.0

A silver, 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid driving down a highway.

Everything You Need to Know About the 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Looking for a vehicle that balances power and efficiency is a daunting task, but Toyota has you covered. The 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid brings it all to the table, from performance to technology, to safety and much more. Here's everything you need to know. Powerful Performance The standard Camry Hybrid Dynamic Force Engine runs on a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that pumps out 203 horsepower. When teamed up with an electric motor and a smooth CVT transmission, this team maintains a fuel efficiency of 51 miles per gallon in town and 53 miles per gallon on the highway. The Hybrid Synergy Drive relies on a reliable hybrid battery that has been continuously refined for over 11 years. With the 2018 Camry Hybrid, that battery has been moved to create more space in the trunk, and it's had some weight shaved off to improve the vehicle's fuel efficiency. In addition to the Camry's powerful and efficient engine, the independent MacPherson front strut suspension and double-wishbone style multi-link rear suspension work together to deliver a drive that actively responds to the road, generating a smooth ride and responsive handling. more Innovative Technology Hybrid performance isn't the end of the Camry's innovative technology. Start by immersing yourself in the luxurious environment by personalizing the Entune 3.0 display with your favorite color, which will project in the vehicle's ambient lighting. Using the same Entune 3.0, 8-inch display and the available Head-Up Display, the Hybrid Energy Monitor illustrates how power is routed to the wheels and how wasted energy is recycled to charge the battery. The 2018 Camry Hybrid lets you drive your way. Pick 'Sport' mode for a quicker acceleration and improved throttle response, or switch to ECO mode to adjust throttle for maximized efficiency. Or use EV mode to switch into electric driving that cuts motor emissions and reduces noise. Stay connected with Wi-Fi Connect powered by Verizon, which is a system unique to Toyota that can support up to five devices within the vehicle. Through an app on your smartphone, you can also use Remote Connect to hunt down your Camry in a parking lot or monitor guest drivers, like that teen who's behind the wheel for the second or third time. Comprehensive Safety Features Toyota proves that it puts its drivers first by including a comprehensive safety package called Toyota Safety Sense, which comes standard on all Camry Hybrid vehicles. Safety Sense includes a Pre-Collision System that utilizes both camera and radar to cue audio and visual warnings. If you don't react quickly enough, the system will apply brake pressure to guarantee your safety. Another system called Dynamic Radar Cruise Control brings safety to the convenience of cruise control by maintaining a set speed and simultaneously keeping you at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. In addition to the Safety Sense package, the Camry Hybrid also includes Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, 10 standard airbags, and much more. Whatever you're looking for in a new vehicle, the 2018 Toyota Camry Hybrid has it all. Don't believe us? Come down to Smart Toyota and take a test drive for yourself.   “ Image” used with permission via Toyota.com / cropped from original

A lovely lady with colorful shopping bags who looks like she has had an amazing day spending other peoples money.

Top 3 Places for Boutique Shopping in Madison

Madison, Wisconsin, is perhaps best known for its university, college football, and politics, but it's also one of the top places in the state to find one-of-a-kind boutique shops. Many of these shops are lumped together throughout the city, making it easy to visit several stores in just one journey. Whether you're searching for places to find furniture, knickknacks, decor, clothes, or a hidden gem, you're sure to find it at one of these places in Madison. more West Towne Mall Although brick-and-mortar stores and malls have been on the decline for years, the West Towne Mall proves that the business model isn't done yet, especially with respect to boutique shopping. With over 70 stores under one roof, this mall has plenty of options to find high-end goods including Coach, Express, Eddie Bauer, Nordstrom, and Yankee Candle Company. If you're feeling famished, West Towne has a typical mall food court, but if you're feeling a bit classier, you might want to hightail it over to the Cheesecake Factory. State Street Connecting the Wisconsin State Capitol with the University of Wisconsin, State Street is the city's thriving pedestrian mall that's home to nightlife, restaurants, and many of the most popular local retail stores. Dozens of these stores have been part of the fabric of the neighborhood for decades, while several other places have popped in over the last five to 10 years. What separates State Street from some of the other malls and options in town is that most businesses are locally owned, giving them an inventory and customer service experience unlike any other. If you don't find the mall a fun shopping opportunity, State Street is probably more your style, and there's a place for everyone. For high-end men's fashion, stroll into Jazzman, where knowledgeable staff will get you dressed to the nines. The culinary person in your life will love the strange, yet helpful kitchen doohickeys at Tellus Mater, while Sacred Feather provides a hat for every taste and occasion. Regardless of your particular needs or style, chances are State Street will have something you'll love. Hilldale Shopping Center Located on the western edge of Madison, Hilldale Shopping Center is a shopping mall and lifestyle center combined into one. Macy's, Target, an AMC Theater, and Metcalfe's Market are the anchor stores of this shopping center, which features over 50 specialty and boutique stores in total. If you're in need of some clothing, Hilldale has popular brands including L.L. Bean, the North Face, Anthropologie, Lululemon, and Kate Spade New York. An Apple store is onsite to help you troubleshoot any iPhone problems or pick up the latest gadget, while the locally owned Jim's Coins and Precious Metals provides excellent gift opportunities or that one-of-a-kind item. In between, you'll find services such as a florist, market, tailor, barber, and even a dentist, making Hilldale almost like a small self-contained city. From top national stores to eclectic, locally owned joints, Madison has a boutique shopping option that's sure to satisfy your urge for a bit of retail therapy.     “ Shopping” via Flickr by Roderick Eime. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

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