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The snow is starting to melt and the flowers are beginning to bloom. That can only mean one thing: spring break is almost here. Who says you have to go to a tropical location to have fun during spring break? Instead, check out a few of these exciting things to do around Madison, Wisconsin. 1. Cookie Decorating Class If you're looking for something fun and different to do this spring break, consider signing up for the spring cookie decorating class at Cookies by Kate. You'll get to learn all the tips and tricks on making perfectly decorated cookies. During the class, you'll have a chance to decorate eight spring-themed sugar cookies. You'll also get a lovely box to take home your cookies and show off your creations. 2. Springtime Macarons Class You can really take your baking skills to the next level this spring break when you sign up for the springtime macarons baking class at delecTable. Even though these sweet treats only require four ingredients, the way you put those ingredients together is crucial. Certified Master Baker Punky Egan will walk you through each step of the process so you can learn how to make these delightful French treats. When you're done, you'll get to leave with a chocolate ganache and Swiss meringue buttercream macaron. 3. Girl Wonderful T-Shirt Decorating Whether you have a young girl looking for something to do over spring break or you and your friends want to create something fun, everyone will have a great time at the T-shirt decorating event with Revel and Girl Wonderful. When you sign up, you'll get to choose which Girl Wonderful T-shirt you want to decorate. Options include everything from "Girl Strong" to "Girl President." You can then spend the morning embellishing your shirt with fabric paint, sequins, gems, and other trims. 4. I Love the '90s Bash For the over 21 crowds, the I Love the '90s Bash is a bar crawl that will make you remember why this decade was so awesome. When you sign up, you'll get a color-changing cup to hold your drinks and a slap bracelet that will instantly bring back some of your best childhood memories. On the day of the bash, make sure you dress up in your best '90s gear as you enjoy drink specials at participating bars and partying with the top hits from the '90s. 5. Downtown Madison Spring Wine Walk During the Downtown Madison Spring Wine Walk, you'll have a chance to check out the shops and businesses in downtown Madison as you taste a variety of wines. The event has several sip stops on the walk. Be sure to stop by each one with your commemorative wine glass to sample the wine and see what's available. Plus, don't forget to join the after party for your chance to win some great prizes. Whether you want to make something amazing or have a good time with friends, you'll find something fun to do during spring break when you check out these top events around Madison.   “ Easter Sugar Cookies” via Flickr by JL7978. Used with permission via CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original

Sedans are among the most popular car classes for a good reason. They're easy to drive and feature a surprisingly large amount of interior space. Additionally, these cars are efficient and come loaded with a multitude of exciting features that are sure to excite any kind of driver. While there are quite a few great sedans on the market, the new 2019 Toyota Yaris offers a unique driving experience you won't find anywhere else. Being behind the wheel of this sedan is simply fun and brings joy to every driving experience. Here are three reasons you'll love driving a 2019 Toyota Yaris. Responsive Performance One of the best aspects of a reliable sedan is drivability, and the Yaris more than delivers on that front. When you look at the tires, you may not imagine it has high grip limits, but the handling is very responsive and fun. Additionally, the steering response itself is notable for being predictable and even entertaining. The engine itself is powerful enough to handle most drives outside of a racetrack. Couple that with its enhanced steering capability, and you can get where you need to go without issue, whether you're in the city or on the highway. Even the brakes are enhanced more than you might think, not only to improve performance but safety as well. Advanced Technology Inside the Yaris, you'll have access to some of the best automotive technology on the market. The dashtop screen allows you to access the advanced infotainment system controlling several of the Yaris' features. If you'd rather not have to deal with a touchscreen, the Yaris also includes a button and knob controller for a classic yet refined analog and digital combination. While the standard brakes are impressive in their own right, the Yaris' technology also extends to quite a few driver assistance features. Among the most impressive is the forward collision warning with automatic braking. With this, the Yaris constantly scans the area in front of you and can apply the brakes automatically if an imminent collision is detected. You can drive with peace of mind like never before. Interior Style and Comfort While the people you pass won't get a good look inside your Yaris, the interior is the aspect you'll deal with the most. Fortunately, the Yaris' interior is remarkably stylish with a stitched leather-look complemented by sleek modern surfaces and designs. Additionally, all the most important features are easily within reach, so the layout is utilitarian as well. The act of driving itself is exceedingly comfortable, thanks to the supportive and soft seats. With good adjustability and high-quality materials, you can drive comfortably, even on trips spanning hours and hours. Road and tire noise is also reduced inside, so you can enjoy a peaceful environment when behind the wheel. You'll find plenty more reasons to love driving the 2019 Toyota Yaris, and they all can be experienced when you get behind the wheel yourself. To see all the latest models, head to Smart Toyota, and explore the best of the best. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

Rather than dread the winter weather and stay cooped up inside, get out an enjoy some fun! There are a ton of great options for exciting winter activities in and around Madison, Wisconsin. If the weather is really unbearable, there are also some indoor activities that are just as fun. Here are four winter-friendly activities worth checking out. Tour Some of Madison's Museums If you're looking for some family fun, the Madison Children's Museum is full of cool exhibits and hands-on learning opportunities for all ages. Check out Stair Trek, their tour of the universe starting from the earth's core and reaching out to the cosmos. Winter Wonder Weeks are a great way to celebrate the season at the museum. The Wisconsin Historical Museum in Madison's Capitol Square is a great place to learn about the area you love. Beginning with the native people groups of Wisconsin and stretching to twentieth-century urbanization, the exhibits tell an enthralling story. Other interesting museums in Madison include the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chazen Museum of Art, and the Wisconsin Veterans Museum. Go Sledding Various parks around Madison have great sledding hills. Take a snowy day off and do some park hopping looking for the best hill. Bring your own sled, and enjoy the ride. You can even find a guide to the best sledding hills around the area online. Some of the parks even offer concession stands and warming houses so you can recharge for the next winter adventure. Hit the Slopes Winter resorts are readily available in the Madison area and beyond. Just 30 minutes to an hour drive outside of the city in various directions will bring you to many different ski areas. Whether you're an avid skier or snowboarder, or if you're just looking for a place to go tubing, you'll have plenty of great options. Resorts like Devil's Head, Alpine Valley, and Cascade Mountain offer tons of runs for all different skill levels and plenty of rental options for those without their own gear. These places are also great for weekend getaways with lodging on site and nearby, as well as restaurants and relaxation areas. Tyrol Basin and Blackhawk ski area are smaller places for winter sports but offer just as much chance to enjoy slope time. Go Ice Skating Thanks to the cold temperatures in the Madison area, many outdoor parks offer ice skating. Bundle up, put on your skates (or rent a pair) and enjoy some charming outdoor fun. Skating on a frozen pond offers beautiful views that you just can't get at an indoor rink. Because outdoor ice skating rinks need the cooperation of cold temperatures, be sure to double check that a rink is open before attempting to skate. Don't forget to make sure you're behind the wheel of a winter-ready vehicle while enjoying the Wisconsin weather. At Smart Toyota, we have a great selection of new vehicles ready to take on the snow.   “ Snow & Fun” via Flickr by Jean de la Tête. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

When you're looking for fuel efficient, dependable, and environmentally conscious vehicles, Smart Motors Toyota has you covered no matter what kind of lifestyle you live. From compact cars to full-size SUVs, Toyota offers hybrids of all shapes and sizes. Here are five great Toyota hybrids. Prius c The 2019 Toyota Prius c comes in two trim levels, the L and the LE, both featuring a hatchback design. This hybrid model really focuses its design and function around fuel efficiency. Drivers can choose between ECO and EV mode while driving for their preferred efficiency. EV mode allows for fully-electric driving as far as one mile, and ECO mode manages the use of other systems like the A/C to deliver optimal efficiency. Camry Hybrid If you're looking for a hybrid with a little more space and features, the 2019 Camry Hybrid offers both. This sedan is spacious and comes with top-notch features even at the base trim level. The base, LE trim, comes with an eight-way power driver's seat and a smart key with a push-button start. Upgrade to the SE for a sportier look and some other bonus features or the XLE for the top of the trim levels. XLE drivers will enjoy an 8-inch touch screen with the Entune 3.0 infotainment system. Prius Prime Toyota's 2019 Prius Prime is a hybrid that acts as an electric car. You can charge a Prius Prime at a charging station, but it also takes fuel. Trims include Plus, Premium, and Advanced. This hybrid sedan is seriously advanced with perks like a remote climate control system featured in the base trim level. Step up to the Premium level for several technology upgrades like wireless device charging and an 11.6-in high-definition multimedia display. The top trim adds a head-up display, LED fog and accent lights, and much more. Mirai Want a future vehicle now? The 2019 Toyota Mirai is a fuel cell electric vehicle that is fully powered by hydrogen. This vehicle has no emissions other than water, so it's completely harmonized with the environment. Unfortunately, the Mirai and their filling stations are only currently available in California, but hopefully, they will be expanding soon. The interior is just as impressive as it has capabilities with intelligent touch controls for the infotainment system and climate control plus wireless charging and a fully digital instrument panel. When you're behind the wheel of a Toyota Mirai, you'll feel like you've traveled to the future. Highlander Hybrid With the 2019 Highlander Hybrid, Toyota lets you have your cake and eat it too! You can get all the size and space you want from an SUV without sacrificing efficiency. Available trims include the Hybrid LE, XLE, and Limited. Every trim level includes Toyota's Safety Sense P system, making this an ideal family car. You'll be able to seat up to eight people comfortably in the 2019 Highlander Hybrid, or put all of the seats down and enjoy 83.7 cubic-feet of cargo space. This beast of a hybrid can even tow up to 3,500 pounds! Stop by Smart Toyota and check out our great selection of hybrid Toyota models. Get behind the wheel for a test drive, and you may just find your next car.   “ Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid (XW50)” via Flickr by Ya, saya inBaliTimur. Used with permission via CC BY-ND 2.0 / cropped from original

Madison, Wisconsin is a beautiful place to live and visit throughout the year, but during the colder parts of the year, ski enthusiasts love this area for its powdery magic. Here are four of the best places to ski near Madison. Cascade Mountain Head to Cascade Mountain for a family-friendly slope experience. Just under a 45-minute drive north of Madison, this spot has tons of options for winter activities. Kids ski for free, so don't miss this opportunity for savings. With 47 runs and 12 lifts, the whole family will stay well-entertained. Tubing and snowboarding are also options. Stay at one of the nearby hotels or resorts and make a whole weekend of it. At the tech shop on the mountain, you'll find great service, equipment, and you can give your skis some serious care with their tuning service. Devil's Head For a ski-loving getaway to remember, Devil's Head resort is open all year and is one of the most popular places for winter sports in the state. Book an overnight package with someone special for a fun and romantic vacation or bring the whole family along. Several restaurants and bars are open regularly at the resort so you can always grab a bite or enjoy some downtime. On-site lodging is available with various room options, or you can rent out a condo for a home away from home. Those who are more daring will love Sidewinder Park, a terrain park on the mountain with more than 35 features and several 500 vertical feet jumps. Those who are newer to skiing can benefit from the lessons offered through the resort's ski and ride school. Lessons are available for adults and children alike. Tyrol Basin Another great option for skiers near Madison is Tyrol Basin Ski and Snowboard Area, just 40 minutes west of Madison. Exciting events take place at Tyrol Basin throughout the year, like their annual Brewfest and many different ski and snowboard races. Enter a race for a fun challenge or just enjoy the show as a spectator. Lessons are available if you want to gain confidence on your skis, and you can get season passes so the slopes are always ready for you. Equipment rentals are affordable, so don't be afraid if you're totally new to the sport. Kids five and under always ski for free, and there are many other pricing specials available, so be sure to check their website when planning a visit. Alpine Valley A little further from Madison, Alpine Valley Ski Resort is about an hour drive east toward Lake Michigan. Here you'll find a fully loaded resort for fun throughout the year. Their beautiful alpine lodge is just at the base of the mountain, offering beautiful views of the slopes and easy access for days full of skiing. This resort is great for adult trips and family vacations and anyone who loves to ski. Don't stay trapped inside all winter just because it's cold, get out and enjoy the snow! Once you're tearing up the slopes, you'll forget all about the shorter days and low temperatures.   “ Pip Skiing” via Flickr by Mr Moss. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

If you're looking a new crossover SUV that's stylish, sleek, and sporty, give the 2019 Toyota C-HR a look. This compact SUV combines an exciting interior with invigorating performance and top-of-the-line technology. Here are just a few reasons to give the C-HR a test drive on your next trip to a dealership. Bold Exterior One look at the C-HR and you'll instantly understand what the engineers were going for: a bold, sporty exterior where every detail was considered and focused on. Every bevel and curve of the 2019 C-HR's body give the SUV a sleek and speedy look. Even the rims feature a chiseled razor design that complements the overall sharpness of the body. The 18-inch alloy wheels are light and nimble but don't disappoint when it comes to delivering power to the pavement. Exhilarating Performance It's not just about looks with the new C-HR. The bold attitude is carried over to the drivetrain, which delivers an exciting performance each time you get behind the wheel. The 144-horsepower engine delivers plenty of power for the compact body, and the auto/manual transmission allows you to choose between letting the transmission work automatically or rowing your own gears. There are several considerations to the suspension and tuning that help deliver a more exciting drive. Gas-pressurized shocks, front coil springs, and four-wheel independent suspension deliver a smooth performance regardless of road conditions. Speed-sensitive steering adjusts sensitivity based on how fast you're traveling. Standard Toyota Safety Sense All trim three trim levels on the 2019 Toyota C-HR come with Toyota's suite of driver assistance features. There are different tiers that include different features. The 2019 C-HR comes standard with the TSS-P set of features. This includes forwarding collision and pedestrian detection. Not only does this groundbreaking technology alert you of a potential front-end collision, but TSS-P also alerts you to potential pedestrian collisions. If the system detects an imminent collision, it will automatically apply braking pressure to help reduce damage or injury. Other amazing features on TSS-P consist of automatic high-beams, and lane departure warning with correction assistance. One of the most impressive features included with Toyota Safety Sense is dynamic cruise control, which alters the speed of your cruising to maintain a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. Luxurious Interior With an exterior like the C-HR, you need an interior to match it. Thankfully, this 2019 compact SUV doesn't disappoint. The satin-plated shifting knob and available leather upholstery add a luxurious flair to the interior, and dual-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable on longer excursions. Vivid Entertainment Tech You'll find that the 2019 C-HR includes plenty of great entertainment technology, as well. The Entune audio system is equipped with excellent features, such as wireless phone connectivity and Apple CarPlay compatibility. There's so much to love about the new Toyota C-HR. The unique exterior styling makes it a superb choice for anyone looking to stand out from the crowd and arrive in style. Take a test drive today or view our amazing online inventory at Smart Motors Toyota in Madison, WI. Image used with permission via toyota.com / cropped from original

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, it's important to have your romantic getaway planned well in advance. Soon, all of the top spots will be booked, and you definitely don't want to be scrambling at the last minute to book a reservation. If you're now looking to make reservations to celebrate this day of love, here are a few of the top spots around Madison, Wisconsin. Get Your Hotel Squared Away ASAP When it comes to hotel reservations around Valentine's Day, sooner is always better than later. There are several romantic hotels around, so try to book one of these if you can. The Buckingham Inn in Madison is the perfect quiet and romantic spot to center your Valentine's holiday around. Each suite features some of the most sought-after amenities, including luxury towels and toiletries, local chocolates, bathrobes, an HDTV, and a large bathtub. These rooms are perfect for snuggling up together on a romantic vacation. Every morning, you'll experience a fresh, delicious homemade breakfast that includes yogurt, fruit, and a sweet or savory entree. For an even more pastoral-feeling approach to your romantic getaway, check in at the Speckled Hen Inn. Your window will greet you with the pleasant sights of nature, which usually entails snow around February, and you may even see some farm animals. The Valentine's Day breakfast special includes a delicious three-course breakfast from the dates of February 8-18. Each room includes complimentary snacks and cotton bath linens, and some rooms have large tubs with jets. Restaurant Reservations If you don't need a hotel, that's excellent news. However, there are still a few things that need to be handled in order to pull off the perfect Valentine's Day. Making your restaurant reservations well ahead of time is sage advice. Take care of it now, and you won't have to sweat about it later. Here are a few restaurant ideas to complement your romantic evening. Chez Nanou is a delightful and romantic French Bistro. Here you'll be served a menu created by two amazing French chefs. All the food is excellent and authentic. If available, try the beef bourguignon or cassolettes gratinees. End your meal with some amazing lavender creme brulee. Anyone looking to break out of the typical mold of a romantic French restaurant or upscale steakhouse will want to make their way over to Forequarter. This rustic eatery uses fresh, local ingredients to prepare unique dishes that will create a lasting memory on your palate. The mustard ricotta dumplings with shiitake mushroom broth are flavorful and irresistible. Plan a Trip to the Spa Treat yourselves to a relaxing massage or spa treatment. There are several area spas to choose from, but Rejuvenation Spa is one of the top options. It offers plenty of spa treatments in your choice of duration, including standard massages, Aveda stone fusion massages, chakra massages, and Thai massages. The earlier you plan your Valentine's Day activities, the more fun you'll have and the less stress you'll encounter when trying to find a reservation. Remember these spots once you start making plans. Image via pixabay by pixel2013. Used with permission via Pixabay License / cropped from original

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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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