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Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (TMNA) is now calling Plano, Texas home after the opening of its new North American Headquarters earlier this month. The company announced its “One Toyota” initiative three years ago, stating that Toyota intended to create a more efficient operation in North America. The new corporate campus is on 100 acres with over seven buildings and costs about $1 billion to build. Toyota has moved thousands of employees and their families to North Texas from places like California and Kentucky, with hundreds moving to the area every week. “The opening of our new headquarters in Plano is an extraordinary next step in Toyota’s 60-year journey in the United States,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota in North America. “With team members from four different companies together in one campus location, we believe this will inspire great collaboration, innovation, and faster decision making as we turn to and lead the futures of mobility, all with an eye on our customers.” Along with the current employees who chose to relocate to Texas, the company stated that the new campus will also be hiring more than 1,000 new people to the team. The company is putting a focus on pulling from the North Texas market due to the mix of local talent. Toyota is also putting a heavy focus on the environment and striving for sustainability with its new office by: Creating an exterior landscape that reflects the native habitat Installing more than 20,000 solar panels Purchasing all electricity not generated by the solar panels by wind Putting in an irrigation rainwater harvesting system The ultimate goal for the campus is to achieve LEED Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, as well as create an environment that is sustainable for the earth and the people who work there on a daily basis. Image via Pixabay

If you're searching for the perfect summer activity for you and your family in Philadelphia, head off to its beautiful Historic District. Rich in history and culture, its attractions offer the perfect combination of summer fun and education. Visit these five popular attractions in the Independence National Historic Park in Philadelphia. 1. Tour Independence Hall Independence Hall is the site of the signing and the adoption of both the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution. It's also the site in 1915 where former President William Taft announced the formation of the League to Enforce Peace, which was a forerunner of the League of Nations. It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission is free, but tickets are required to enter. Guided tours are available to enrich your knowledge about this important American landmark. more 2. Visit The Liberty Bell The bell that used to ring in the Pennsylvania State House, now known as the Liberty Bell, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pennsylvania. It got its name from the message it bears, "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants Thereof." It has become a symbol of freedom and liberty and has served as an inspiration for human and civil rights activists. It's open throughout the summer from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. There is an exhibit area in the Liberty Bell Center, along with a video presentation about the bell's history. Admission is free, and no tickets are required to enter. 3. Stroll Through Washington Square Washington Square is a beautiful open-space park. It has a rich history; it was the location of the first human flight (via air balloon). Take a moment to pause at the Tomb of the Unknown Revolutionary War Soldier to pay tribute to those who risked their lives for our freedom during the Revolutionary War. The park is open to everyone 24/7. 4. Explore History at the President's House The first executive mansion housed both President George Washington and President John Adams. The house is no longer standing, but the foundations can still be seen and an outdoor exhibit center has been set up on the site. The exhibits at the President's House focus on the paradox of the house's history: Washington and Adams both fought for freedom and liberty, but at the same time, they held slaves at the house. Admission is free, and no tickets are required to enter. The exhibit is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. 5. Discover Ben Franklin in Franklin Court Franklin Court is the site of Benjamin Franklin's residence from 1763 until his death in 1790. Archaeological remnants of some of the original buildings can still be seen, and ghost buildings that display the outline of the original buildings were constructed in the 1970s. The Benjamin Franklin Museum is located underground and showcases the life and history of this great patriot, as well as his inventions. In addition, you can visit the United States Postal Service Museum, along with an operating post office. This post office is the only one in the country that does not have a U.S. flag because it didn't yet exist when the post office opened in 1775. The Independence National Historic Park has many more important landmarks. It's filled with the history of our nation's birth. There is a lot to learn there; these five places are just a start. Image via Pixabay

Looking for something to do with the family during the autumn season? Philadelphia and its surrounding areas have many fall harvests and festivals. Enjoy these six fall festivals for days of nature and fun.   Enjoy a hayride, pick your own pumpkins, watch the pig races, and try to find your way out of the corn maze at the annual Fallfest at Freddy Hill Farms. Get fresh on-site milk, milkshakes, ice cream, and ice cream cakes at Freddy's Dairy Store. Choose your favorite flavor; there's a wide selection of them, ranging from cookies 'n cream to eggnog! Pet the animals at the animal zoo, and get some exercise at the batting cages and miniature golf courses. Fox Chase Farm Applefest This historic farm, established by the Wistar family, is now an educational farm that serves to educate the community about farming. Paint pumpkins, make apple butter, enjoy hayrides and games, and try some cider pressing. Buy fresh pumpkins, apples, apple cider, and apple butter to take home with you. more Harry Potter Weekend in Chestnut Hill Harry Potter fans, mark your calendars! Taste some Butter Beer, don the Sorting Hat, watch a Quidditch match, shop at Harry Potter themed shops, ride on the Knight Bus and on Thestral rides, eat at Harry Potter themed restaurants, visit Hogsmeade Station, and stroll down Diagon Alley at the annual Harry Potter Weekend in Chestnut Hill. You can even take Potions and Defense against the Arts classes. You can also participate in the Harry Potter Conference, which is an annual academic conference at Chestnut Hill College that focuses on scholarly works arising out of the Harry Potter series. Quakertown Autumn Alive! The Autumn Alive! festival is all about fun and pets. Take your pet to the Broad Street Pet Parade. Crafters, businesses and pet rescue organizations will line Broad Street. There will be plenty of fun for the kids: Cupcake contests, a Food Court, an Author's Corner, and live on-stage entertainment all day for two days. Adults can enjoy some fresh beer samples at the Beer Garden. Apple Butter Frolic at the Mennonite Heritage Center This festival has been going on for over 40 years. It focuses on the Mennonites, their heritage, and their way of life. It also serves as a fundraiser for the Mennonite Heritage Center. There are plenty of traditional foods to enjoy. There will be a pancake and apple sausage breakfast, an apple foods tent, an apple baking contest, German Pennsylvanian food, farming demonstrations, and plenty of fun for the kids, including horse and wagon rides. Bucks County Wine Trail Harvest Celebration If you're a wine lover, you'll love this day at the wineries during the annual Bucks County Wine Trail Harvest Celebration. You'll get to taste fresh wine and freshly pressed grape juice. There will be a number of wineries offering activities and services such as live music, picnic tables, wine pairing, doughnuts, and much more. There is always something to do in Philadelphia. Whether you're going with your spouse, with friends, or with your kids, these festivals will delight and educate you. Image via Flickr by Mike Mozart is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Over the weekend, the Pennsylvania Downtown Center (PDC) announced its best performing Main Street Programs of 2016 at the PDC gala dinner in Harrisburg.  The National Main Street program has been going on for more than 30 years and has helped rehabilitate more than 246,000 buildings, generated almost $60 billion in new investments, and created more than 500,000 new jobs. The PDC’s award recognizes programs that have demonstrated an “across the board” ability to generate new jobs, new businesses, public and private investment and volunteer hours. The Ardmore Initiative was recognized as the third best performing Main Street program in PA! Check out the full press release below, along with other nine programs recognized! more Pennsylvania Downtowns Awarded Best Performing Programs HARRISBURG, PA - Pennsylvania Downtown Center (PDC) has named its best performing Main Street Programs of 2016. This award recognizes those programs that have demonstrated an “across the board” capacity to generate new jobs, new businesses, public and private investment and volunteer hours. The top performing Main Street Programs across the Commonwealth for 2017 are: . 1 st - Easton Main Street Initiative, 2 nd – Ebensburg Borough, 3 rd – The Ardmore Initiative, 4 th – Historic Kennett Square, 5 th – Oil City Main Street Program, 6 th – Downtown Hazleton Alliance for Progress, 7 th – Building A Better Boyertown, 8 th – Kutztown Community Partnership, 9 th – Wilkinsburg Community Development Corp., and 10 th – Allentown-7 th Street.   The determining criteria measures program activity as reported annually by local Main Street Managers. Community revitalization organizations are then ranked from top to bottom, with the top performing program in each of the sixteen evaluated categories receiving a score of 1. This year there were 40+ community organizations eligible to be evaluated. The rankings across all of the categories are then tabulated and the organization with the lowest total number is the top performing program.   PDC, the coordinating program to the National Main Street Center for Main Street programs in Pennsylvania, is honored to see these downtowns acknowledged for the goals they have set, accomplished and in many cases, exceeded. Each community has also met the ten performance standards established by National Main Street Center to be a nationally accredited Main Street Program. These standards include topics such as training requirements, planning methods, and community involvement.   Founded in 1987, the mission of Pennsylvania Downtown Center is to build and support the capacity of local nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and individuals to enhance the overall well-being and sustainability of Pennsylvania’s communities. For more information about the accredited communities or the Main Street program, contact Maria Wherley at (717) 233-4675 ext. 116 or email.   Pennsylvania Downtown Center, Inc. PO Box 1265 Harrisburg, PA 17108 (717) 233-4675

If you're looking for something fun to do this summer in Philadelphia, plan to attend one of the many festivals happening in the city. With such a variety, you're sure to find at least a couple choices that appeal to you. Check out this list of the five top festivals for summer fun in Philly. Browse Crafts and Paintings at the Manayunk Arts Festival Hosted on Main Street in the Manayunk neighborhood of Philadelphia, the Manayunk Arts Festival attracts around 200,000 visitors each year. It's the most significant outdoor juried arts festival in the region; it showcases works from more than 300 artists. In the Emerging Artist Tent, collectors can peruse works by local residents. Vendors at the festival will offer paintings, jewelry, sculptures, ceramics, glass, mixed media, and fiber. The festival takes place rain or shine on Saturday, June 24 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 25 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. more Celebrate Independence Day With Wawa Welcome America From June 29 to July 4, the city of Philadelphia will host multiple events as a part of the Wawa Welcome America festival. During the multi-day extravaganza, residents and tourists alike can enjoy free concerts, block parties, free days at local museums, and other family-friendly activities. The event culminates on July 4 with a parade, a free evening concert, and a magnificent fireworks display. Indulge Your Inner Foodie at the Second Street Festival On Sunday, August 6 from noon to 10 p.m., you can enjoy food, craft beer, and music during the Second Street Festival in the Northern Liberties neighborhood. Expect to enjoy Mexican cuisine, American comfort food, and other favorites from nearby restaurants at the festival. In addition to food tents, the festival hosts food trucks that offer delectable treats. Wash down your meal with local craft brews served up in beer gardens. Festival organizers direct revenue from the event into a fund to support the establishment of a business improvement district in the area. Get Your Groove on at the XPoNential Music Festival Music fans from all over Philadelphia and beyond gather each summer for the annual XPoNential Music Festival at the BB&T Pavilion on the Camden Waterfront. On July 28, 29, and 30, festival attendees can groove to the sounds of Wilco, Amos Lee, Spoon, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and more. Three-day festival passes range in price from $15 for lawn access for children to $247 for prime reserved seating. See Unique Performances During the Fringe Festival To wrap up summer, you can enjoy the Fringe Festival from September 7 through 23. From street performances to avant-garde productions, the festival brings more than 1,000 select contemporary performances to the city's neighborhoods. National and international performers demonstrate their craft during the Fringe Festival with edgy theatrical works that stretch conventions and engage the audience's imagination in exciting ways. Some performances may not be suitable for young children. There will be both free performances and ticketed events. Whether you want to experience theater, sip craft beer, or enjoy some music, Philadelphia is the place to be for exciting summer festivals. Image via Pixabay

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