Blog

Winter driving brings a unique set of challenges. To stay safe on the roads this winter, keep reading for a few helpful driving tips. 1. Be Extra Cautious Approaching a Bridge Elevated structures like overpasses and bridges usually freeze before the rest of the road. While you might be traveling fine on the road, you could hit a patch of black ice on a bridge and lose control. 2. Give Yourself Extra Space When you're traveling on snowy or icy roads you should always leave yourself extra space to stop. You need at least three times the stopping space on slick roads that you need on dry roads. Additionally, when you're driving in the snow, you need to do everything more slowly. Don't expect to make any fast starts or sharp turns. 3. Keep Your Gas Tank Close to Full Not only does a fuller gas tank prevent your vehicle's gas-line from freezing, if you get stranded or stuck, running your engine is your only source of heat. You can leave your engine idling for as long as you have gas, and it will keep you warm and won't hurt your engine. 4. Don't Pass Snow Plows The plow on a snow plow extends several feet beyond the width of the truck and makes it hard for the truck driver to see a passing car. Give the snow plows room to work and stay at least 200 feet back. When you're out on the roads this winter, keep these helpful driving tips in mind so you can travel safely.   Image via Flickr by Szift

Whether you've just started dating or you've been married for years, the attractions around Hatfield offer plenty of fun for date night. When you're looking to show your date a good time, consider one of these great activities. 1. Tour the Asher's Chocolates Factory Since 1892, Asher's Chocolates has made fine chocolates and other sweets. Stop by the candy factory in Souderton Monday through Friday, and take the self-guided tour that shows you how this family-owned and operated company makes the sweet treats. After the tour, be sure to browse through the Victorian-style shop and box up a few chocolates to savor later. 2. Dinner at the Red Cedar Grille & Cocktails The Red Cedar Grille & Cocktails is one of the newest restaurants in the Hatfield area. The menu has an international flair, yet it focuses on local and fresh ingredients. The bar offers a unique mix of wine, spirits, 12 taps for craft beers, and 40 bottled beers. 3. Live Music at Country Creek Winery Country Creek Winery is in an old dairy barn from 1856. The winery produces and bottles its own wine on the premise. The fruit wines are made using Pennsylvania-grown fruit, and the white and red wines are made with French-American hybrid grapes. Stop by on the weekends for tastings, and then catch one of the live bands on the outdoor stage. From a good dinner, to fun music, and a little something sweet afterwards, these great date ideas in Hatfield are sure to create wonderful memories.   Image via Flickr by eliduke

Conventional vehicles use gasoline or diesel to power their internal combustion engines, but hybrids work a bit differently. With an electric motor and battery, hybrid vehicles are partially powered by electricity, reducing the need for gas to power the engine. Less Pollution and Better Gas Mileage Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) are designed to give you 20 to 30 more miles per gallon of gasoline than conventional automobiles, which is nothing to sneeze at. They can also be designed with different goals in mind, such as more power or less pollution. That's why Toyota offers various hybrid vehicles, including the Camry Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, Prius, and RAV4 Hybrid. Advanced Technologies Most HEVs feature advanced technologies such as an electric motor drive and regenerative braking, the latter of which helps them recapture energy that would normally be lost because of braking or coasting. Other common features include an automatic start/stop that mechanically turns off the engine when the car stops and then restarts it once you press the accelerator. All these features are designed to reduce energy waste. Hybrid Synergy Drive Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive senses driving situations, including engine demand, automatically telling the car when to switch between electric power and gasoline. As the world's leading hybrid technology, Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive provides all the power you need to enjoy impressive handling, dynamic acceleration, and reduced fuel consumption without compromise. Toyota's hybrid technology provides an uncompromised driving experience that will leave you wondering why you didn't make the switch sooner. Image via Flickr by M 93: „Dein Nordrhein-Westfalen"

If you live in or around Hatfield, you're in luck. There are a number of fun farm activities to experience in the area. Check out the local fall offerings if you're looking for something great to do with the family, with friends, or by yourself. Merrymead Farm Head to Merrymead Farm on September 30 for The Storytelling and Lighting of the Great Pumpkin. At 6:45 there will be live music and children's entertainment. Storytelling and the lighting of the pumpkin start at 7:30. You can also get hayrides or a walk through the Cornstalk Tunnel for a small charge. Admission to the event is free, and offers a perfect bonding experience for families. From the end of September to the end of October, you can also experience Merrymead's five-acre Cornfield Maze. Hellerick's Family Farm At the Hellerick's Family Farm you can experience the fall harvest from September 17 through October 31. Free admission allows you to explore the farm market with a variety of goods for sale. General admission is $5 per person and includes several activities, including farm animal attractions, a five-acre corn maze, a butterfly meadow, and hayrides. Take part in other activities for an additional fee, such as pick-your-own pumpkins, potato sling shot, and rubber duck races. Fall brings along with it harvest festivals and great activities. If you're searching for a way to get out and enjoy the area this fall, check out the local farms for activities suited for all ages. Make sure to dress for the weather, since most of these activities are outdoors. Image via Flickr by baze426

The Prius is Toyota's best-known hybrid. However, it is far from its only one. Toyota offers a complete line of hybrid models that may just surprise you. RAV4 Hybrid Toyota has redefined the popular crossover body style with the RAV4 Hybrid, a compact SUV that gets an estimated 34 miles per gallon on the highway and 30 in the city. Along with Toyota's proven hybrid powertrain, the RAV4 Hybrid boasts electronic, on-demand all-wheel drive, a comprehensive energy monitor, unique alloy wheels, and a spacious interior that leaves the cramped hybrids of yesteryear in the dust. Camry Hybrid Toyota's popular midsize sedan offers even more benefits than before, thanks to its hybrid powertrain. The Camry Hybrid is an affordable solution for drivers wanting the traditional sedan aesthetic with added eco-friendly benefits. With an aggressive mesh grille, LED headlights, front sport seats, and an available moonroof, you can bet you will enjoy every minute behind the wheel. Highlander Hybrid With an EPA rating of 27 mpg in the city and 28 on the highway, the Highlander Hybrid is a smart option designed to save you money at the pump and reduce your carbon emissions. Features such as an adjustable power liftgate, an adjustable cushion height, seating for up to eight people, extra storage compartments, and a conversation mirror make the Highlander Hybrid the quintessential family vehicle. With so many hybrid options, Toyota has taken eco-conscious technology to a whole new level. Stop by Peruzzi Toyota to discover for yourself which hybrid is right for you. Image via Flickr by halfrain

If you're in the market for a new truck this year, you're going to want to take a look at the 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. While it costs a little more than the base models, it's worth every penny. Go Offroading One of the biggest draws to the Tacoma TRD Pro is that it offers a variety of features beneficial to offroading. You'll get standard equipment such as an electronically controlled rear differential and a V6 Tow package. On top of that, the headlights and taillights are specially designed for optimum safety on or off the road. High-performance off-road suspension is also featured in this truck. Your drive performance is improved by a heavy-duty 2.5-inch Fox internal-bypass damper and an engine oil cooler in the front. Stay Comfortable and Entertained Inside the truck you'll find an awesome lineup of tech and comfort features. Leather-trimmed heated front seats keep you comfortable year-round. With the Entune premium audio system, your music always sounds crystal clear. Capture all of your adventures easily with your GoPro, using the GoPro mount located on the windshield. You'll love the 4.2-inch color driver's display, keeping you informed on speed, temperature, and more. The 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro will be available as a double cab 4x4 model with a five-foot bed. The truck is expected to be released fall 2016. Pricing information has not yet been released. If you're looking for a truck that has all the features you need to make offroading great, keep the TRD Pro in mind. Image via Flickr by ilikewaffles11

This Halloween, take a trip to some of the most haunted places around Hatfield. These spots offer creepy sounds, unusual sightings, and unique experiences. Get ready to be creeped out by the hauntings in the area. Physick House Head to Philadelphia, which is known as the most haunted city in America, for a unique sighting. Here you'll find the Physick House. This home was named after Dr. Philip Syng Physick, the "Father of American Surgery," and was built in 1786. During the years the Dr. Physick lived here, patients came to visit, and it's suspected that some of them may have stayed. Supernatural events have been reported at the home, and it's said that there are at least two ghosts. Carbon County Old Jail Head about an hour outside of Hatfield to experience Carbon County Old Jail. Here, a leader of the coal miner's union, Molly Maguires, slapped his hand on the wall as he was taken to be executed. He stated that he was innocent and that his handprint would show as proof of that innocence. Over the years, the jail was cleaned, remodeled, and even repainted, and the handprint stayed. It is said that this is a ghostly manifestation, along with several other hauntings in the old jail. If you're looking for a fun way to scare yourself, book a ghost tour or take a walk around one of the many haunted places in the area. There are many within a short drive, so you can find something new each Halloween. Image via Flickr by Visit Cape May

Finding a car that is great for the entire family is difficult, but the Toyota Camry is one of the leading options with family-friendly features. The combination of available features makes outings an enjoyable experience for everyone in your family. Cabin Space and Design If you've ever been on a long car ride with your family, then you're familiar with the need for comfortable seating. The Toyota Camry has a spacious interior, especially the back seat, to accommodate the needs of family members of all sizes. Tests show the seats are well designed for child seat attachments, providing added safety for the youngest of passengers. Easy Driving Controls The controls in the Camry are positioned for easy access and interpretation, making driving a simpler and more enjoyable experience. You'll notice the Camry has several performance-enhancing features that improve handling and acceleration, which make anyone enjoy driving. Despite the increased performance, the Camry's gas mileage keeps your wallet full. Safety Features Above all else, safety is the primary concern for all families. The Camry has a series of safety features to protect your family. Numerous design enhancements and air bag systems resulted in better crash test ratings. The Camry is effective in protecting you and your family in case of an emergency. The Toyota Camry is an ideal vehicle for anyone with a family and a passion for family outings. Get a Toyota Camry today if you are looking to keep your entire family happy on the road. Test-drive a new Camry today to see how you and your family can travel in comfort. Image via Flickr by Toyota Motor Europe

The seasons are changing, and that means you will need to do some preventive maintenance to prepare for the next few months of cold weather, which includes more rain and frost. Whether you love or hate the weather, your car will be much more efficient if you do the preventive maintenance ahead of time. Oil Checking your oil is always an important task. However, with the changing of the seasons, you should always check to make sure you have the right type for the season and the proper level of oil. The best choice is to use a multigrade viscosity oil for the colder seasons. Antifreeze Making sure your antifreeze is at the proper level before the cold weather kicks in is your car's biggest way to fight against the cold weather during the fall. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for how to fill the antifreeze properly into your vehicle. Wipers During the fall, rain and ice will be more prevalent. If your wipers aren't made for the weather, they won't last for long. Finding wipers that are specific to the season will give you the best visibility. Windshield Washer Fluid Make sure your washer fluid is full. This is important during these months that we might see more frost. Washer fluid is a necessity to get your car's windshield cleared quickly and efficiently. The better we take care of our cars before the changing of the seasons, the better our cars will remain for years to come. By changing to the right fluids, you can make sure your car will run more efficiently through the entire season. Image via Flickr by Raul A.

Death rates are three times higher for individuals driving at night as opposed to driving during the day. This means that if you are driving during the night, you should watch closely and make sure you are paying as much attention as possible to the road. Nighttime often brings out the worst in drivers, from unexpected wildlife to unclear road conditions, people are often not paying enough attention to the road. The following tips should help you during the twilight hours of driving. Know Your Limits Knowing how far you can see and how fast you can react are crucial while driving at night. With limited visibility, you should pay close attention to how much space you will need to stop so as to avoid hitting the car in front of you. Lights, Lights, Lights Most cars have three sets of lights: regular lights, brights, and fog lamps. Once night falls, you should have at least one of these lights active during your entire commute. Fog lamps are illegal to use if there are other cars in the direction you are driving, so use them when there is no oncoming traffic. Stay Alert If you feel yourself getting tired or if you are just feeling like you are losing focus, you should stop your car and take a walk or grab a bite to eat. Make sure to stretch your legs and keep your phone down while driving, especially during the night. As long as you are paying attention and obeying traffic laws, driving at night is completely possible. These tips should help you get through your night commute without any complication. Image via Flickr by Yuya Tamai

Fall is a beautiful season; the leaves turn colors and fall off the trees, and it creates a beautiful landscape. However, with the changing weather come some new road hazards, and below are some of the main concerns to watch for. Leaves During autumn, the leaves will fall, and they can sometimes pile up. These can gather on roadways and soak up any fluids that are close by, making them slick. Indeed, leaves can become as slick as ice in the winter. To help prevent skidding, ensure your tires are suitable for driving in icy conditions. It may be prudent to put on winter tires early or to take alternate routes through neighborhoods where there are fewer trees lining the streets. Animals Fall is deer mating season, and mating season means the deer will run in small herds. If you see a deer on or near a roadway, remember there are probably more deer to follow. Slow down your vehicle and keep your foot on the brake in the event that you need to stop suddenly. Ice The season changing into fall brings colder temperatures and more rain. It can rain and freeze overnight, causing hazardous conditions to your morning commute. Remember that during these weather changes, you will need to drive more cautiously on your commute. Leave the house 10 minutes early so you can drive slowly without fear of being late. The change from summer to fall is minimal, but some changes can cause issues during your commute. As long as you are paying attention to the road and you are cautious of the conditions, you will be able to enjoy fall in comfort. Image via Flickr by Ian Sane

Driving is stressful, but there are ways to make yourself more comfortable and less tense. If you find that during your daily commute you feel cramped or you are in pain before you reach your destination, you should start paying more attention to how you are sitting in your car. With these ergonomic tips, you should start feeling better after the first trip. Seat Adjustments Changing how you sit while you're driving can make a big impact on how you will feel when you get to your destination. The easiest way to start is to put the seat all the way back and have a seat while you adjust. You will want to adjust your hips to sit at the same level as your knees to support your back and legs while sitting. After you have accomplished this, you will want to move the seat's height so that your head isn't too high and you won't have to lean to one side or the other. Steering Wheel The steering wheel will need to be moved to the center of your chest and close enough that your elbows will be slightly bent. Position mirrors so you won't have to move anything other than your eyes to see behind you. If you have the steering wheel in the proper place and the mirrors are properly adjusted, your head and neck will be much more comfortable. Just by making these minor adjustments you will feel better. These can make your head, neck, back, hips, and knees feel less strained during your commute. Image via Flickr by Eric Chu