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Driverless cars: They sound like a cross between our wildest fantasy and a science fiction, but alas, they are reality – and they're quickly coming to our streets. Are they truly the future of driving? Only time will tell, but early indications point to driverless vehicles being the true wave of the future. What Are Self-Driving Cars? The name "self-driving vehicle" seems pretty obvious, but in reality, there are several levels of driverless vehicle. A Level 0 car has no automation and is completely human-controlled, while a Level 5 ride is fully automated with no human intervention. Automation varies across the other four levels, with some levels already represented in today's vehicles. more A New Generation of Non-Drivers The millennial generation as a whole lacks an interest in driving, unlike previous generations, which is why ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft have achieved so much success. Because they are not interested in driving, millennials will be an ideal market for driverless vehicles. Such vehicles offer owners the freedom on car ownership in that they can use the vehicle when and how they like without the worry of driving it. Spreading the Nation If you've traveled the nation, you know that drivers and road conditions differ everywhere you go. Fortunately, driverless car developers are testing these vehicles on a variety of road conditions beyond California's Silicon Valley. You can find driverless cars on the streets of Washington, Michigan, Arizona, Texas, and even right here in Pennsylvania. Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh are working with driverless Uber taxis, trying to "confuse" the car with a variety of driving situations we might encounter while operating a vehicle. Laying the Foundation If you own or lease a late-model vehicle, chances are you have such features as lane-change assistance, collision avoidance, and hands-free parallel parking. These conveniences are all the forerunners of driverless vehicle technology as they use much of the same sensors and software one might find in a driverless vehicle. Timeline to Driverless With such technology already on the road, when can we expect driverless cars to dominate our roadways? Those already investing in the technology anticipate widespread use of driverless vehicles by 2021, barring any governmental or technological roadblocks. However, automotive insiders think the timeline will be much longer, perhaps toward the middle of the century, before most of us are cruising along in driverless cars. Humans have already set an impressive precedent in how safely they operate vehicles that it will take some time before a machine can reach that standard. Human-specific abilities, such as ethical decision making, also pose a challenge that machines have difficulty duplicating. Toyota has already made a sizable investment in the future of driving. It was a pioneer in hybrid technology with the introduction of the Prius, and its recent investment in Uber offers formidable backing toward driverless vehicle technology. At Ardmore Toyota, we're proud to be part of the Toyota family. Stop by our dealership today and see why. Image via Pixabay

For the Dawgma team, it is on to Seneca, NJ in two weeks and then hopefully off to the Mid-Atlantic Robot Championships Recently they performed in the Westtown Competition. Dawgma went on to place 11th in overall ranking, and captained the 7th alliance into the Quarterfinals. Thanks to the efforts of their Safety Captain, they were awarded the Industrial Safety Award for  safety practices at the competition. more They also won the Engineering Inspiration award, the second most prestigious award in FIRST, given to teams that inspire STEM in their community in innovative ways, for outreach programs including a robotics class at Judith Creed Homes for Adult Independence (JCHAI) that teaches adults with developmental disabilities, and their partnership with ProjectHOME, which serves homeless youth in an effort to break the cycle of poverty. We are proud to support Dawgma! Dawgma and its parent organization of FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) share the goal of changing the culture that surrounds STEM. By attending their competitions like you would any sports event, you are helping them create a culture that loves and respects science. Their mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership. Learn more about FIRST Robotics here: http://www.midatlanticrobotics.com Image via Pixabay

For some, a vehicle is good for simply getting from point A to point B. Here at Ardmore Toyota, we believe you should enjoy the driving experience as well. That's why we're excited about the technology upgrades Toyota has added to its vehicles. Here are four of the best features you might find in your next Toyota. Entune Sure, we all enjoy using our smartphones to make calls, listen to music, and get directions, but they're simply not safe to use while driving. Enter Entune. Through Bluetooth compatibility, you can access your phone's apps, navigate to your destination, and even talk to Siri® while never taking your eyes off the road. Three different Entune levels offer an array of audio features such as satellite radio, wireless music streaming services, and updates on fuel prices, sports scores, and stock prices. Entune is available on most new Toyota vehicles. more Safety Sense Whether you're riding solo or hauling precious cargo in the form of your family, you want to arrive safely. Toyota recognizes that and is committed to keeping you and your family safe in all its vehicles. Its Safety Sense packages offer such technologies as Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and a Pre-Collision System (PCS) in Toyota compacts, and they add features like Vehicle and Pedestrian Detection and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) to midsize and larger vehicles. A combination of lasers, cameras, and millimeter-wave radar feed the car the information it needs to activate these systems. Connected Camrys The Toyota Camry has been a top seller for decades, and it continues to impress into the first quarter of the 21 st century. The 2017 Camry comes with available Safety Sense and Entune packages, which afford you safety features such as Lane Departure Alert and conveniences such as iHeartRadio, Pandora, MovieTickets.com, and OpenTable. Even though Camry is always looking ahead, it has you covered when it's time to look back. Each 2017 Camry comes standard with a rear back-up camera, which activates the moment you shift the car into reverse. New Camrys even come with optional wireless charging capabilities, meaning you'll never worry about a dead cell phone battery again. Tech-Savvy Tacomas Toyota's mid-size Tacoma pickup is ready for action and ready for fun, and it will keep you safe along the way. Regardless of which trim package you choose for your 2017 Tacoma, you will receive a rear back-up camera and some version of the Entune package. There is even a mount on the windshield for you to install your GoPro camera. Creature comforts abound in the 2017 Tacoma, including optional dual-zone climate control and wireless charging capability. The Smart Key with push-button start means no more fumbling for your keys again, as the Smart Key fob will gain you entry into your truck provided the fob is on your person. Whether you're looking for a car, truck, SUV, hybrid, or something in between, Ardmore Toyota has the right 2017 Toyota for you. Our friendly staff will match you with the vehicle and technology you need to enjoy going places in your new Toyota. Image via Pixabay

They're your best friend, your fur-child, and your constant companion, so it makes sense that when it's time to travel, your dog will join you on your adventures. Traveling with your dog can be fun, but it requires a little planning. Before your pup climbs into your vehicle, make sure you check out these four tips for safe canine cruising. 1. Plan for the Unexpected We never want to think about our dogs becoming separated from us, but a little planning can reduce stress in case something happens. Before you depart, make sure your pooch is current on immunizations, including rabies. Fasten your dog's identification tag securely to its collar to guarantee a swift return in case of separation. A microchip can also be a lifesaver should your dog become lost; installing a chip is a quick, inexpensive, and relatively painless procedure that can be done at your local veterinary office. more 2. Let Them Have a Seat Pets need a place to rest their bones inside your vehicle, but that place should never be in your lap or untethered in a seat. In the event of a crash, simple physics indicates that your dog could continue in motion after the point of collision, resulting in serious injury or worse. A crash-tested crate sized appropriately for your dog is the best way to transport Fido. Durable materials such as aluminum, plastic, and fiberglass are best, and crates with internal crash bags add an extra layer of protection in a crash. 3. Treat Them Like a Child Everywhere you go, you see pet owners making common mistakes with their pets, but you can avoid these mistakes if you think of your animal as a child. You would never dream of setting off on a trip with no nourishment for your child, nor would you let them hang out of the windows or remain locked alone inside your vehicle. Likewise for your pet. Provide plenty of fresh water and treats, keep them secured in their crate, and always let them out for fresh air and exercise whenever you depart the vehicle. You'll also want to pack leashes, toys, and other comfort items your dog enjoys. 4. Know Before You Go If your travels take you to a hotel or aboard an airplane, be sure to call ahead to learn the hotel or airline's policies on pets. You may need to take along proof of vaccinations and an airline-approved crate. Ask hotel owners where you can exercise your pet, and be sure to contain your dog to avoid disturbing other guests. If staying with friends and family, make sure pets in the home get along well with your furry friend. Research pet accommodations for any attractions or venues you wish to visit while traveling. Whether traveling across Pennsylvania or across the nation, Ardmore Toyota is your destination for quality new Toyotas and a vast selection of pre-owned vehicles. With hundreds of vehicles available, you're sure to find the perfect ride for you and your pet. Image via Pixabay

When it comes to vehicles, it's not always easy to choose what model you want to buy. In some cases, two vehicle models may be very similar, while in others, the differences may be major. If you're considering the Yaris, you'll want to know the real differences between the Yaris and Yaris iA before making your choice. Cost Let's face it: When it comes to buying a new vehicle, cost is a major factor. Vehicles that are too far out of your budget just won't work, no matter how much you love them. Fortunately, in this case, both vehicles are affordable. The base model 2017 Yaris has a starting manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of $15,250, while the base model iA starts at $15,950 MSRP. more The Yaris has 5 models available (3-Door L, 3-Door LE, 5-Door L, 5-Door LE, and 5-Door SE). The most expensive, the 5-Door LE, starts at $17,285 MSRP for the 5-Door LE  and comes with 4-speed automatic transmission. The Yaris iA has only one model. The base model comes with a manual transmission and an MSRP of $15,950, but you can upgrade to a 6-speed automatic transmission for a little more ($17,050 MSRP). Fuel Efficiency When it comes to the Yaris and the Yaris iA, you may be especially curious about gas savings. The small size and high efficiency of this vehicle make either model a great choice. The Yaris gets approximately 30 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the iA model gets slightly better fuel efficiency with 32 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway. If you're looking at fuel economy, the Yaris iA is a winner, especially for anyone driving a lot of highway miles. Design The Yaris model is designed as a hatchback, and as such, it offers slightly more cargo space (15.6 cubic feet, compared to the iA's 13.5 cubic feet). While both vehicles can accommodate up to five passengers, the iA with its sedan design offers more interior space (172-inch length, compared to the Yaris's 156-inch length). Each is equipped with a sporty-looking interior design and 60/40 split rear seats. Under the Hood The engine for the Yaris and the Yaris iA is the same. They both feature a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 106 horsepower, so they perform similarly. Technology and Safety The Yaris and the Yaris iA are also equipped with similar technology and safety features. Both include the Toyota Entune audio system and have a touch-screen display (although the iA's is slightly larger at seven inches, compared to the Yari's 6.1 inches). Both have Bluetooth connectivity, but the iA model has USB ports and iPod connectivity as well. The iA also features a standard backup camera and remote keyless entry. Both have Toyota's Safety-Sense collision prevention system. A lot of details come into play when you're in the market for a new vehicle. When it comes to choosing between the 2017 Yaris and the 2017 Yaris iA, the decision comes down to several factors, including style preference, cost, and design features. However, with either choice, you'll be walking away a winter. Image by Zytonits is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Spring is the perfect time to renew, refresh, and clean. Make your vehicle feel new again by adding it to your spring cleaning checklist. There are plenty of easy and inexpensive ways to clean out and organize your car. Clean the Exterior Say goodbye to the dirt, grime, debris, and salt that winter brought to your vehicle by giving your car a thorough exterior washing. Use a pressure washer to remove dirt and debris that can scratch the surface, and then clean with a product formulated specifically for washing your car's surface. Once it's been thoroughly washed and dried, apply a wax or paint-protecting product to help repel more dust and keep your car beautiful throughout the spring months. Vacuum and Clean Mats Gravel, dirt, and more can accumulate on the floors of your vehicle, so spring is a great time to refresh them. If you have all-weather or other water-resistant floor mats, remove them completely and clean them with warm water and a gentle scrub brush. Hose them off and allow them to dry while you thoroughly vacuum the interior seats and floors. Get into cracks and crevices as well as you can. Replace mats once they are dry. Clean Leather or Upholstery If you have leather seating, use a conditioning leather cleaner to thoroughly clean seats and other leather areas. If you have cloth seats, you can use an upholstery spot cleaner to clean any spots that might have become dirty or stained over the winter. Rinse the area to prevent dirt from collecting on the soap residue. Clean Other Interior Surfaces Wipe down other interior surfaces using a cleanser specifically for your interior — or another mild cleanser diluted with water. Rinse and dry when done. Use window cleaner to add a shine to the interior glass. Don't forget to check the trunk for forgotten belongings, and clean that area, too. Don't Forget Maintenance Don't neglect proper maintenance just because the warmer weather is around the bend. Check standard maintenance items like fluid levels, tire pressure, and wiper blades, then look for any problems like loose hoses or leaks. Organize Essentials on Backs of Seats There are many things you may need to have on hand for everyday life or for travel, but they can quickly clutter up your vehicle. Place hanging shower or shoe pockets on the backs of sets to easily organize essentials like sanitizer, a first aid kit, tissues, spare phone chargers, restaurant coupons, and anything else you normally need. Use Everyday Items to Help You Organize You don't have to spend money on fancy organizers to get your car in shape for spring. Cover a plastic gum dispenser container with pretty or fabric and use it as an easy-to-dispense change holder. Keep plastic bags organized and handy for trash by stashing them in an empty tissue box. A plastic shower caddy can be used to organize items like kids toys and snacks or oil and other fluids. Take the time to spring clean your car and reorganize the interior. You spend a lot of time in your car, so why not make it peaceful, clean, and less cluttered? You'll drive happier after a good cleaning. Image via Pixabay

Ardmore, Pennsylvania, one of the towns that make up the Philadelphia countryside, is a charming community with love for art, music, and culture. Given that fact, it's no surprise that the Ardmore Music Hall is a draw for Philadelphia residents, Ardmore natives, and visitors from all up and down the east coast. At any given time, there are tons of exciting, interesting, or fun shows taking place — finding an act that's worth traveling for isn't difficult. See Splintered Sunlight in February The Ardmore Music Hall often attracts cover bands or tribute bands, and the locals love it. Splintered Sunlight is a Grateful Dead tribute band, and Deadheads from all over are sure to descend on the venue. If you're eager to hear the whimsical but meaningful lyrics and riffs made famous by Jerry Garcia, you'd better plan your trip while tickets are still available. more Come See Control for Smilers Toward the end of February, Control for Smilers has plans to roll into Ardmore. As any Phish fan already knows, this is a Phish tribute band well-known for singing the iconic band's biggest hits, as well as their sleeper favorites. This is a fun three-for-one show, as the opening acts include both The Space Cats and Bazmati Vice. Pay Homage to the Allman Brothers In late March, Butch Trucks intends to rock Ardmore's socks off. Butch Trucks was the drummer for the Allman Brothers. He's coming to town with his new band, The Freight Train, and the scuttlebutt says that they intend to play all of your favorite Allman Brothers songs, not to mention tons of other favorite covers from similar bands. Midnight North featuring Grahame Lesh is the opener. Join the Ardmore Music Club If you're a music-lover, maybe it's in your best interest to join the music hall's official Music Club. As a member, you receive discounts on tickets, advance announcements about new lineups, alerts for approaching sellouts, and even Ardmore Music Hall merchandise. The level of membership you choose offers special deals, as well. For example, Ambassador Level members have the chance to snag autographed posters and complimentary seating, plus they don't have to pay ticket fees. Host Your Own Event The Ardmore Music Hall opens its doors for private events, too. It's an excellent venue for events such as bat mitzvahs and bar mitzvahs, birthday parties, weddings, galas and fundraisers, corporate events, and film screenings. You can even throw parties before or during concerts that are already taking place, but you don't have to plan your event in conjunction with a planned event. The hall also offers optional amenities, such as catering and access to event staff, including lighting technicians and security. Since the venue has two floors, a stage, and a full bar, it goes without saying that you can host a massive event. Ardmore Music Hall is practically a one-stop shop for local events, concerts, and private parties. This is a place where the community can come together for fun and enjoyment, not to mention its ability to draw visitors from nearby cities and even other states. What concert are you dying to see? Image via pixabay

It's no secret that Toyota is a leader in safety and innovation, and in recent years, the brand has made advances in technology that make its vehicles better than ever. Consider some of these breakthroughs when you're evaluating your next vehicle. Safe, Stable Braking When you need to stop quickly, it's essential that your brakes be equipped with the best technology. Toyota not only has Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) but also Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) that is specially designed to compensate for the shifting weight that occurs under hard braking conditions. It eases brake pressure on the wheels carrying the least weight, which makes your vehicle more more stable and keeps it in control. Brake Assist (BA) is another safety component available on Toyota-brand vehicles. It is designed to increase braking power if it senses sudden braking, as well as add braking power if the driver brakes too lightly. Greater Stability Many accidents occur each year because unforeseen circumstances cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles. Toyota models include excellent stability and control features that keep you safer on the road. This includes the Vehicle Stability Control System (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC). The VSC system monitors whether the vehicle is deviating from the driver's steering, and if it senses a problem, it will reduce engine power and apply pulsing brake force to either left or right side brakes to correct it. Increased Traction The TRAC system keeps the vehicle in control by monitoring whether a drive wheel is spinning at the same speed as the wheel on the opposite side. An imbalance indicates a loss of traction, cuing TRAC to reduce engine power and apply pulsing brake force if needed until the vehicle regains traction. Lane Departure Alert As part of Toyota's exclusive Safety Sense system, many alert and detection features are available. These intuitive safeguards increase driver awareness and assist the driver in preventing accidents. Lane Departure Alert (LDA), for example, uses visual and audio signals to notify drivers if they are unintentionally veering out of their lanes. Some vehicles are also equipped with a Steering Assist function that initiates small steering corrections if this occurs. Collision Prevention Pre-collision System Detection (PSD) monitors the location of the vehicle's proximity to other vehicles using a laser and camera, prompting the driver to stop with audio and visual alerts if he or she is too close to another car. Some models include a Pedestrian Detection feature along with the PSD. Night Safety For increased safety at night, an Automatic High Beams (AHB) features senses the headlights and taillights of nearby vehicles. This feature automatically switches from high beams to standard headlights when other vehicles are present — and back again when they move out of range. These are just a few of the outstanding safety features Toyota offers. No matter what style of vehicle you prefer or how far you have to drive on a daily basis, safety is an essential part of a vehicle. When you choose a vehicle that has top-notch safety features, you can get behind the wheel and drive with more confidence knowing that you and your passengers are safer on the road. Image via pixabay

Toyota has announced plans to improve its lineup over the next five years. Through 2021, the Japanese automaker will focus on several key areas, enabling it to exceed consumers' expectations and stay ahead of market trends. Impressive in scope, the bold plan entails developing new engines, transmissions, and hybrid systems. Ultimately, Toyota hopes to create a better driving experience by making vehicles that outperform their rivals, use less fuel, and have lower emissions. Building New Engines By the conclusion of 2021, Toyota plans to have new engines, transmissions, and drivetrains on 60 percent of its vehicles in major markets. The new powertrains will be designed to provide better performance while also using less fuel and emitting less carbon dioxide into the air. Within the next five years, Toyota will unveil 17 versions of nine newly designed engines. As for transmissions, expect to see 10 iterations of four new gearboxes, and 10 variations on six hybrid systems. Focusing on Hybrid and All-Electric Vehicles As consumers and regulators demand greener vehicles, Toyota is responding with a dual focus. Between now and 2021, Toyota will assign engineers to work on improving hybrid technology and battery-electric vehicles. According to industry reports, Toyota plans to increase the number of workers dedicated to developing hybrid systems by 30 percent to meet its goals under the new five-year plan. Given the new initiative, it appears Toyota will spend fewer resources on vehicles that get power from a hydrogen fuel cell. Improving Consistency Across the Lineup As Toyota rolls out its new engines and transmissions, it plans to scale back its engine offerings. In fact, the company will cut the number of engines in its global lineup by 40 percent. Why bring more consistency to its powertrains? One of the internal drivers behind this effort is Toyota's commitment to its new modular vehicle platform called Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA). The platform will give birth to a new group of vehicles that cost less to make but offer superior performance. To date, the only TNGA-developed vehicle available for purchase is the fourth-generation Prius. Previewing the New Engines At a press conference in late 2016, Toyota showcased a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that runs on gasoline, a new hybrid setup for cars with rear-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic gearbox for front-wheel drive vehicles, and a 10-speed automatic transmission for vehicles with rear-wheel drive. All the new technologies are supposed to make their official debut on line-produced vehicles in 2017. How Customers Benefit The forthcoming changes have meaning for customers. For starters, most buyers want more bang for their buck. There's tremendous appeal in getting a better-performing car without a dramatically higher price tag. Overall, consumers are always pushing for enhanced performance from new vehicles. Toyota's new engines and transmissions for 2017 promise a 20 percent improvement in fuel efficiency and a 10 percent improvement in acceleration. In comments to reporters, the president of Toyota's Power Train Company said the upgraded engines and transmissions will serve as points of differentiation. He hopes this new effort to produce better-performing vehicles at a lower price will set Toyota apart from its rivals. Image via Pixabay

The Toyota Camry is one of America's best-selling cars, and it's easy to see why. The popular mid-size Camry is held in high regard for its combination of dashing looks, super technology, top-class safety features, and a performance level to match. In fact, the Toyota Camry is so loved by American drivers that it was the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for 14 consecutive years! The Camry LE is the cheapest trim for the 2017 model year, so accessorizing your LE becomes essential for that added touch of customization, ensuring that you get the car you want. Read on for five of the best accessories you can buy for your 2017 Toyota Camry LE. more Alloy Wheels The Camry LE comes with 16-inch steel wheels as standard, but upgrading to the available 17-inch alloy wheels is a great way to start customizing your car. Not only do alloy wheels look fantastic, but they offer a significant boost to performance due to their lighter weight--a trait that enables them to handle imperfections in the road better than steel wheels. Mudguards There's no point in splashing your cash on a new car if you're going to let that shiny Camry paint job get ruined by road debris and bad weather. You should absolutely consider a set of four mudguards for your Camry LE. The great thing is that they blend so well with the exterior styling that most people won't even notice them. Universal Tablet Holder If you regularly drive long distances with your family or friends, the available universal tablet holder is the perfect accessory to help keep those rear seat passengers entertained while limiting the pain associated with poor posture. The holder is made with spring-loaded arms to ensure any tablet will fit, regardless of its brand or size. Other multimedia devices are catered for too, such as smartphones or music players. All-Weather Floor Liners Despite not being the most glamorous of accessories, all-weather floor liners are crucial for protecting the carpet of your Camry LE from dirt and moisture. The liners are designed to precisely fit the dimensions of your car, ensuring a perfect fit that covers the floor and its surrounding edges. The high-tech composite material used to make these floor liners is able to absorb dirt and moisture from your shoes. A Camry logo is embedded into the front mats for a subtly unique touch. Remote Engine Starter Accessories tend to offer improvements to one of two things: practicality or style. The available remote engine starter falls into the former category, and it is too nifty not to take advantage of for your Camry LE. Depending on whether it's blisteringly hot outside or freezing cold, you can either cool down or warm up your car before you get into it. The usefulness of this is that each time you drive, you can ensure optimum comfort for yourself without needing to spend the first few minutes behind the wheel waiting for the climate control to do its thing. These five accessories help to add a sense of customization and individuality to your Camry LE. The next step is to choose which ones would be best for you. Image via Pixabay

Appropriately dubbed the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia is the perfect place to rekindle romance. From cultural sites to intimate and cozy eateries to outdoor attractions to other swoon-worthy places, if you're looking to put a little spark back into your relationship this Valentine's Day, look no farther than Philadelphia. And we're here to help. You can plan to have the ultimate romantic day by following our guide below. Explore the City Philadelphia is home to a variety of romantic excursions that are perfect for you to explore with your Valentine. Here you can spend a sunset evening at a waterfront attraction, ice skate underneath the stars at one of the city's pop-up winter skating rinks, or take a guided tour throughout the city. No matter what you choose to do, capture the moment with pictures (they do say a picture is more worth a thousand words). If you're planning on a whole day excursion, try creating a scavenger hunt and have your Valentine "guess" what activity you'll do next. Brunch, Lunch or Dinner Dining There is nothing wrong with celebrating the most romantic day of the year at one of the city's most intimate and romantic restaurants. From French fare to Mexican to Italian to tapas, Philadelphia is home to over 35 restaurants all serving up romantic meals on Valentine's Day. So whether you're a brunch or lunch couple, tantalize your senses by sharing a meal together. Get in Touch With Your Wild Side Who doesn't love a trip to the zoo? This Valentine's Day weekend, celebrate your love with love-themed, family friendly activities at the Philadelphia Zoo. It's during this weekend that guests can take a tour to see all of the zoo's famous animal couples. Discover Your Inner van Gogh Philadelphia's Art After 5 weekly Friday after-hours party gets romantic for February 14 th. At this exclusive event you'll hear the Calabash Quartet serenade you and your sweetheart with a variety of love songs. To top off this romantic evening at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Granite Hill will offer a fixed price mouth-watering French menu that's—of course—romance inspired. Following that cultural event, you can choose to spend your Saturday at the Penn Museum, which offers Valentine-related programming for guests of all ages. Spend your lunch listening to an all-flute pop-up concert or create love notes using Egyptian hieroglyphs. For an experience that's a little more intimate, stop by the provocative SEX exhibit which showcases the history of sex in 30 objects. Chocolate and Pottery Kick off Valentine's Day weekend at The Clay Studio. Hosting a chocolate tasting on Thursday, it's here where couples can sample sweets and learn all about the making of chocolate. Friday's event features champagne, wine, mood music, and light fares. And there you have it: some of our top picks for Valentine's Day events in Philadelphia. Tell us: What are you planning for this Valentine's Day? Image via Pixabay

If you're shopping for a crossover, don't forget to check out the 2017 RAV4 from Toyota. Reliable, comfortable, and roomy, the newest RAV4 carries forward the features that make this vehicle so popular with consumers. Even though the crossover market is crowded with choices, there are several ways the RAV4 edges out the competition. Take a look at these four reasons to opt for the RAV4 as your next crossover. 1. Advanced Safety Features on Every Trim Many carmakers entice buyers to spend more money on higher trims by making the latest and greatest more safety technologies exclusively available on their more expensive vehicles. But that's not the approach Toyota takes with the 2017 RAV4. In addition to antilock brakes, air bags, and stability and traction control, every RAV4 comes with the Toyota Safety Sense package. The standard high-tech safety features include lane keeping assistance, forward collision alerts and mitigation, and automatic high beam headlights. If you're looking for a crossover that prioritizes safety, the 2017 RAV4 is the right choice. 2. A Fuel-Efficient Hybrid Option If you're concerned that a crossover is going to put a serious strain on your wallet because of its fuel consumption, then you need to examine the RAV4 hybrid with all-wheel drive. The powertrain on the hybrid consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors. At peak performance, the hybrid system kicks out 194 horsepower. According to EPA estimates, the 2017 RAV4 hybrid achieves 34 miles per gallon on city streets and 30 mpg on the open road. The combined fuel efficiency rating is an impressive 32 mpg. To save money at the pump, choose the RAV4 hybrid as your next crossover. 3. Premium Upgrades Inside and Out New for 2017, Toyota offers the RAV4 in a new ultimate trim called Platinum. If you're looking for features that you typically only get with luxury brands, the Platinum trim may have everything you want. As the new top trim, the Platinum comes with a heated steering wheel, an 11-speaker sound system by JBL, a leather-trimmed shift lever, ambient lighting in the foot wells, and a hands-free power lift gate. On the outside, the Platinum boasts an exclusive wheel design and full-body color for a bold, modern look. Even with so many premium features inside and out, the Platinum has a reasonable base price of $34,750. 4. A Spacious Interior If you're concerned about space for passengers and cargo, the 2017 Toyota RAV4 has you covered. For cargo, you get 38.4 cubic feet, which is more than most competitors offer. If you fold down the back seats, you expand the space to 73.4 cubic feet, making it easy to haul oddly shaped and bulky items. Passengers sitting up front appreciate having plenty of head and leg room. In the second row, you can expand your space by reclining the seats and enjoying a restful ride. Comfortable seats throughout the cabin make road trips pleasurable. Whether you need the best safety equipment, good fuel economy, upscale features, or a spacious interior, you can find it all in the 2017 Toyota RAV4. To experience the RAV4, schedule a test drive. image via pixabay