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If you're hitting the roads in Oklahoma this winter, it's important to remember that severe weather can strike at any time. To make sure you get wherever you need to go, here are some safety tips that can help keep you safe when you're driving on snowy or icy roads this winter. Take it Slow One of the most important things to remember about winter driving in Oklahoma is that you need to drive slowly to account for the lower traction you'll have on snow and ice. Watch the flow of traffic so you can anticipate when you'll need to stop and take time to slow down. When you're ready to accelerate again, do it gently so you can regain traction and avoid sliding. Since you'll need to drive slower than usual, make sure you leave ample time to get to your destination. more Increase Your Following Distance Since you need more distance to slow down on slick roads, you want to increase your following distance to at least three to five car lengths. This increased space will give you the longer distance you need when you have to stop. It's also important to stay at least 200 feet behind snowplows. Plus, since snowplows can create a lot of blowing snow that severely restricts visibility, you should never attempt to pass them when you're on the road. Watch for Ice Ice is one of the most dangerous parts of winter roads. The Federal Highway Administration estimates that every year over 150,000 accidents are the result of icy road conditions. Black ice is particularly hard to see because it freezes so clear it looks like water. If you're driving down the road and your vehicle suddenly starts to slide on ice, don't hit your brakes. Instead, take your foot off of the accelerator and gently turn into the skid. Once you're out of the skid, you can bring the steering wheel back to the direction you want to go. Check Your Tire Pressure Once a Week Every time the temperature outside goes down 10 degrees, the air pressure inside your tires will also decrease around one or two PSI. Under-inflated tires can skid more easily on wet pavement, require more stopping time, can lower your gas mileage, and decrease the lifespan of the tires. To make sure you're not driving around on dangerously under-inflated tires, you should check the pressure once a week. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle No matter how much driving you plan on doing this winter, you should keep an emergency kit in your vehicle. Your emergency kit should include a blanket, warm clothes, gloves, ice scraper, shovel, flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, sand or cat litter, water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, and triangles or flares to warn other vehicles. If you get stranded, call for help and stay in your vehicle until assistance arrives. This winter, you'll be able to confidently navigate the roads around Oklahoma when you keep these important safety tips in mind.   Image via jeep.com

Brake fluid is a type of clear hydraulic fluid that absorbs heat and disperses it throughout the brake system so your brakes don't get too hot. Unfortunately, brake fluid can also absorb water or start to run low. If your brake fluid is lower than a half-inch from the top of the reservoir, it's time to add more. If the fluid is dark, it's time to take your vehicle to the service shop to have it replaced. To prevent damage to your brake system, you should have the brake fluid changed once every two years. Have Your Brake Pads Checked Brake pads help your vehicle stop. Yet the friction required to stop a vehicle will cause the pads to wear down over time. You should periodically have your brake pads checked as part of routine maintenance on your vehicle. This should be done at least once a year. One good way to remember this task is to plan on having your brake pads checked at the same time you have your tires rotated. more Use Them as Little as Possible To keep your brakes in good condition, you want to try to use them as little as possible. When you're driving, pay attention to the traffic flow ahead of you so you can coast to a stop instead of having to apply your brakes. Coasting helps preserve your brakes by putting less pressure on them. Additionally, you can keep more distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you so you don't have to hit your brakes every time that vehicle slows down. Listen for Unusual Noises Even though you take care of brakes, parts will start to wear down. This is why you should always listen for unusual sounds coming from your brakes. If your vehicle grinds, shakes, or pulls to one side when you brake, your brakes might need to be checked. A metallic squealing or screeching noise when you brake is a sign that your brake pads need to be replaced. You should also keep an eye on your front tires. If you begin to notice a lack of brake dust, it could be a sign that your brake pads are worn and need to be replaced. Purchase Quality Brakes When it's time to purchase new brakes, it's a good idea to invest in quality, reliable brakes. Your mechanic can determine when it's time to replace your brake pads and brake discs and offer recommendations on the best type for your vehicle. Keep in mind that you'll typically need to replace your brakes every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Thanks to these helpful tips on how to care for your brakes, you can feel better knowing they'll always be there for you when you need them. For quality brake service, schedule an appointment with Blue Ribbon Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram.   Image via Pixabay

The secret to starting your day right is a good breakfast, friendly faces, and maybe even a cup of coffee. For those in Sallisaw, Oklahoma, there are three standout places to get breakfast. Whether you're grabbing coffee and a muffin to go, or you have time to enjoy a full breakfast plate, these breakfast places will make sure you start your day well. 1. Blue Ribbon Diner Blue Ribbon's family restaurant has an extensive breakfast menu with all your favorite breakfast fare. Get the Nova Scotia Lox, a bagel topped with cream cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion, or the Gourmet Veggie Omelette, made with cheese, onion, tomato, broccoli, mushroom, and zucchini. If you like to sample a little of everything with your breakfast, get the Lumberjack Special Value Meal. This loads your plate with French toast or pancakes, two eggs, and your choice of ham, bacon, or sausage. more For something lighter, try the fruit salad or a blueberry muffin. Get your coffee fix with an espresso, cappuccino, mochaccino, or a regular cup of coffee. If you like to start your morning with something sweet, Blue Ribbon has a wide variety of pastries you can choose from. Eclairs, cannolis, lobster tail pastries, cinnamon horns, muffins, Danishes, baklava, and Greek powdered cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 2. Aromas Coffee Shop If you're the type of person who needs coffee to get your day started, head to Aromas Coffee Shop. This cute cafe has delicious drinks and friendly staff to help you have a great morning. In addition to serving regular coffee, Aromas has a featured flavored coffee of the day, as well as lattes, cappuccinos, frappes, and iced drinks. The Milky Way is their most popular hot drink, but if you're in the mood for something cold, give the frozen Mudslide a try. Get a breakfast sandwich made just the way you like it at Aromas, choosing between bacon, ham, or sausage, with egg and cheese, served on your choice of bagel, croissant, or white or wheat bread. You can't go wrong picking up a cinnamon roll or a scone; scones are available in blueberry, chocolate chip, and white chocolate raspberry flavors. If you're in a rush, grab one of the delicious muffins to go. 3. Ruger's Grill At Ruger's Grill, breakfast is served from 6 to 11 a.m., so whether you're an early bird or a late riser, you have time to grab breakfast here. Enjoy breakfast favorites such as steak and eggs, the breakfast burrito, or the pancake platter. Get a one-, two-, or three-egg platter, or choose from seven omelets, such as the all meat omelet, the simple cheese omelet, or the Spanish omelet. French toast, oatmeal, grits, and biscuits and gravy are some of the available sides you can add to your meal if you love a big breakfast or eat on their own if you prefer a light start to your day. The kid's breakfast offers a choice between a pancake, French toast, or a biscuit and gravy, with either bacon or sausage. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Make sure you take the time to have breakfast at one of these three spots in Sallisaw, Oklahoma.   Image via Pixabay

The legacy of Jeep is one of getting you where you need to go no matter what the terrain. Jeep traces its roots to the battlefields of World War II, where it played a major role in helping the Allies win the war. That legacy continues today in the Jeep Wrangler, the direct descendant of the original Willys, and the popular Jeep Renegade. Compare the Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Renegade to find your best-fit off-road vehicle and make the best choice for your SUV driving needs. Passenger Space Jeep Renegade Both the Wrangler and the Renegade are compact sport utility vehicles that seat up to five passengers. The Renegade offers a more spacious interior, with a total passenger volume of up to 118.6 cubic feet. The Wrangler, by comparison, offers just 88.4 cubic feet of passenger space, so it will be slightly more cramped. Cargo Volume When it comes to cargo volume, the Wrangler emerges as king. Its 56.5 cubic feet of cargo volume with the back seats folded down outshines the Renegade by nearly 6 feet. When you fold down all the seats in the Renegade, you'll get 50.8 cubic feet of cargo volume — still respectable, but not as much as the Wrangler. more Engine Power The Wrangler's 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower to get you where you need to go. There's also a new 3.0-liter V-6 EcoDiesel engine that gives you up to 260 horsepower. The Wrangler is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds. The Renegade offers two engines, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that gives you 180 horsepower and a 1.4-liter turbo-four that nets you 177 horsepower, with both engines rated for 2,000 pounds of towing. The Wrangler certainly has the beefier powertrain of the two vehicles. Off-Roading Jeep Wrangler Both vehicles offer off-road capabilities that best most non-Jeep vehicles in their class, so if you're doing some trailblazing, you can't go wrong with the Wrangler or the Renegade. The Renegade offers the Jeep Active Drive and Jeep Active Drive Low 4x4 systems to switch between four-wheel and two-wheel drive, with the Selec-Terrain traction control to intelligently determine the setting you need. The Wrangler is built for going off-road and offers either the Command-Trac 4WD system or the Rock-Trac 4WD system, as well as heavy-duty axles, special locking differentials, and an electronically disconnecting sway bar. The real difference is that the Renegade is built to handle just about any driving situation, whereas the Wrangler is built for more robust off-roading as a hobby. Making Your Choice Both the Jeep Renegade and Jeep Wrangler are super capable, comfortable, and fun to drive. The real difference comes down to your core needs. The Renegade is built to handle just about any terrain but focuses on being your everyday ride, whereas the Wrangler functions quite well as an everyday ride but is built for going off-road. If you'd like to check out both of these vehicles, Blue Ribbon Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM has them in stock. Stop into our showroom for a test drive today!   Jeep Wrangler and Renegade Images via jeep.com

The city of Sallisaw has two main types of attractions: scenic expanses of outdoor space where you can connect with nature and fascinating historic sites that explore the state's unique history. Whether you're an outdoor fanatic or a history buff, here are four of the top things to do in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Brushy Lake Park If you're looking for a quiet, relaxing place to go fishing, swimming, or boating, head to Brushy Lake Park. The 90-acre park just north of town features a scenic, 358-acre lake with several miles of shoreline and beautiful spots for visitors to camp or play with their pets. Plan for a picnic at one of the group shelters equipped with electrical outlets or picnic tables with available grills. It has 23 spaces for campsites and RVs, playgrounds nearby for the kids, and showers for those who need that creature comfort while camping. more Sequoyah's Cabin Explore the life of the famous Cherokee man, Sequoyah, in the one-room log cabin he built in 1829. This silversmith, blacksmith, and trading post owner created the written alphabet for the Cherokee language. The on-site museum details the history of the Cherokee and the basics of Sequoyah's alphabet. He had originally attempted to create a symbol for each word in Cherokee, then after realizing that wouldn't work, he created symbols for the sounds of Cherokee words. 14 Flags Museum Sallisaw's 14 Flags Museum honors Oklahoma's history and acknowledges the influence 14 nations had on the state. Located near the railroad tracks, the museum consists of three cabins and a train depot. Samuel Lattimore, a survivor of the Civil War, built the oldest building, Lattimore Cabin, in 1835 out of hand-cut logs. Judge Franklin Faulkner, a man who married a Cherokee woman and was forced into Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears, built another cabin. A third cabin houses artifacts from the Trail of Tears. Among the 14 flags flown over the museum, you'll see the royal standard of Spain circa 1541, the standard of the French Republic in 1800, the confederate battle flag, the present Oklahoma flag that was designed in 1925, and the union of Great Britain circa 1663. Kerr Lake A year-round local favorite, Kerr Lake is especially beautiful in the spring when flowers start to bloom and in fall when the landscape is full of color. Opt for swimming and splashing in the water, head out on your boat, or fish for largemouth bass, walleye, or catfish in the lake. Bring a picnic and set up in one of the picnic areas, or simply relax on one of the many beaches. Camp areas are open all year, and sites have full hookups, picnic tables, washrooms, showers, and potable water. Walk to the Visitors Center to check out the view from the observation decks; you'll be able to see the boats passing through the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System. Spend some time enjoying nature or exploring the history of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, at one of these top places to visit.   Image via Pixabay

Jeep Cherokee If you are on the lookout for a compact SUV for your family, you probably already know that Jeep offers some of the best vehicles in this class. The Jeep Compass and the Jeep Cherokee are two SUVs in the Jeep lineup that make perfect family vehicles. They both offer room for passengers and gear, come with the latest safety features, and have the technology that both kids and adults love. Take a look at the Compass and the Cherokee and choose the one that works for your family. The Jeep Cherokee Interior Space The Cherokee fits into the compact segment with room for five passengers and comfortable seating in both rows. It comes with two sets of LATCH connectors in the back outboard seats and a lower anchor in the middle. This SUV has a cargo area with 25.8 cubic feet of storage space, which can open up to 54.7 cubic feet if you fold the rear seats down. The cargo floor also lowers down to create more space behind the rear seats. more The Jeep Compass Interior Space The Compass has two rows of seats and room for five with two sets of LATCH connectors in the back. The cargo area in the Compass is slightly larger than the Cherokee with 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, and it opens up to 59.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The cargo area in this Jeep has tie-downs, and you'll find several cubbies throughout the cabin and even under the cargo floor. The Power All the Compass models come with a 180-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. If you need more power, the Cherokee starts with this engine, but also offers two V-6 engines. The first is a 3.2-liter that delivers 271 horsepower, and the other is a 2.0-liter turbo V-6 that makes 270 horsepower and will get 295 pound-feet of torque. The Off-Road Capabilities Jeep Compass Families who want to head off on weekend adventures can take either the Compass or the Cherokee. Both models have excellent off-road capabilities with any of the trims, and they each have a Trailhawk model with extra features to make it even more capable over rough terrain. The Cherokee Trailhawk has an increased ride height, a high-performance all-wheel-drive system, and it comes with rock crawl mode, skid plates, and red tow hooks. The Compass Trailhawk comes with many of the same off-road features as the Cherokee, including the four-wheel-drive system, and Active Drive Low 20.1 Crawl ratio. The Technology Both of these Jeeps come with the Uconnect 4 infotainment system. It has large, bright screens, quick responses to touch, and it works with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 7-inch touch-screen display comes standard with the option for an 8.4-inch touch screen that comes with navigation. An upgraded Beats stereo system is also an available upgrade. Both the Cherokee and the Compass make an excellent vehicle for a family. Either one has room for everyone, a spacious cargo area, and the best off-road capabilities in its class.   Images via Jeep.com | Jeep Compass | Jeep Cherokee

Learning about history in a hands-on way can make it fun and interesting, even to the most reluctant learners. Sequoyah County is full of great historical locations that make learning more about its history exciting. It's like going on an adventure that takes you back in time when you visit the sites around the county. Take a look at some of the best historic sites in the area and start planning your adventure today. Sequoyah's Cabin If you haven't heard of the important historical figure by the name of Sequoyah, then you need to plan a trip to Sequoyah's Cabin. Here you will learn all about how Sequoyah helped to increase the literacy of the Cherokee people. The cabin was built in 1829, and visitors will get to experience exhibits and artifacts that showcase early Cherokee life and reflect the great accomplishments of Sequoyah when they stop in to see this historic site. After you explore the cabin, you can enjoy the serenity found on the 10-acre grounds that surround the area. This place is great for history lovers of all ages. more Fort Smith National Historic Site Preserving almost 80 years of history, Fort Smith National Historic Site is a great place to learn about life on the edge of Indian Territory. There is plenty to explore here, and you're sure to learn some interesting facts, see some neat old buildings, and maybe even get a great view of the Arkansas River. Stop in at the visitors center to have a park ranger help guide your trip. They will be able to tell you about all the things you can see and do at this historic site. You can start by visiting some of the old buildings like Judge Parker's Courtroom, the Commissary Storehouse, and the foundation of the first Fort Smith building. Learn more about the Trail of Tears and Indian Removal from some of the exhibits located at the site. Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge by completing a booklet that is available at the visitor center information desk. This place will teach you some valuable history that you probably didn't know before your visit. Dwight Mission Dwight Mission was the first mission established in the U.S. for Native Americans. It was originally built near present-day Russellville, Arkansas, but when the Cherokee people were forced to move west, they requested that the mission also be moved. It now lies 3 miles southwest of present Marble City. Although it has served many purposes since its original construction in the early 1800s, today it is used for retreats and camps for Presbyterians. However, when these programs aren't taking place, visitors can tour the grounds of this historic location. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for something interesting to do for the day, these places are sure to pique your interest in the historic county of Sequoyah. Check them out and let us know what you think.   Image via Pixabay

The Dodge Charger is getting a face-lift for 2020. It brings in a new body style and other unique features for the model year. The traditional power and muscle of this built-for-speed street-legal muscle machine are still there. It just brings out some intriguing changes for the 2020 model year. The primary focus for the changes is the Hellcat and Scat Pack trims. Wider Body One of the most notable changes with the 2020 Dodge Charger is the additional width added to both the Hellcat and R/T Scat Pack trim levels. A widebody package is an option for the Scat Pack. It is standard on the Hellcat. The new body package adds 3.5 inches to the body, making it tricky for the car to fit in narrow parking spots. The additional width is from the newly added fender flares. more The new body style means the Charger uses the same wheels as the widebody Challenger. They are 20- by 11-inch wheels that use 305 section Pirelli tires. Speed Changes Open the hood and you'll notice the Hellcat still has a powerful 6.2-liter Supercharged Hemi V-8 SRT engine. This block creates 707 horsepower, giving you the feeling of pure freedom on the open highway. The wider body does impact the car's speed. If you are racing it, the quarter-mile speed drops from 11.8 seconds to an impressive 10.96 seconds. In terms of street performance, the car goes from zero to 60 in 3.6 seconds. Keep in mind that power needs more room to stop. When you hit the brakes at 60 mph, you'll need at least 107 feet to come to a complete stop safely. Not to be left behind, the Scat Pack sees its quarter-mile time come in at 12.4 seconds. It climbs from zero to 60 in just 4.3 seconds. Daytona 50th Anniversary Edition Hellcat Are you looking for a muscle car that stands out from the crowd? Check out the Daytona 50th Anniversary Edition Hellcat. This unique trim adds a decklid Daytona decal. There are also some exclusive paint colors to make the powerful machine turn heads. Under the hood, the powerful engine produces a breathtaking 717 horsepower. Production of this trim is expected to top out at 501 vehicles. New Interior Package Catch your breath as you step inside the Hellcat or R/T Scat Pack. If you are looking for an interior that gets your heart racing as much as the engine does, check out the new package offered for 2020. It is a carbon and suede package that features a carbon fiber trim with suede accents. The package adds a touch of class into the familiar Charger interior. Yes, there is still plenty of room for you and whoever decides to go on a heart-pounding adventure with you. Use the push-button start to fire up the potent engine before you enjoy the feel of the open road. If your curiosity is peaking at the thought of a new Dodge Charger sitting in your driveway, stop by Blue Ribbon. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff looks forward to helping you find your perfect Charger.   Image via dodge.com

If you're looking for a beautiful location to get outdoors and go for a hike, then Sallisaw is the place for you. There are plenty of locations that offer great hikes for a variety of skill levels. You can find a hike that suits your ability and will provide you with great views and scenery too. Take a look at some of our favorite hiking spots in the area. Tenkiller State Park There are a few options for hiking in Tenkiller State Park. One of the easier, but very beautiful hikes, is the Overlook Nature Trail. This is an incredibly scenic hike to take in the fall, you'll be treated to some beautiful fall foliage and, of course, views of the lake. It is only a little over 2 miles there and back and stays pretty level most of the way. It is a well-traveled trail, so it is easy to follow and you'll enjoy traversing the winding path through the trees. more Another nice trail, which is also handicap accessible, is the Multi-Use Trail. It's a paved trail that leads to some great views of Lake Tenkiller, and you can also see the dam and floodgates. The trail is paved all the way to the end, making the 1.3-mile hike accessible to hikers of all skill levels. You'll enjoy the partially wooded path that takes you past cabins, pavilions, and even a scenic fishing pond. Either one of these hikes is sure to please and get you out enjoying nature. Ouachita Trail The Ouachita Trail starts at the Winding Stair Trailhead and is an enjoyable hike. Although this one is just under 2 miles, there is about 300 feet of elevation gain, so be ready for a little climbing. You will enjoy hiking through trees of several different varieties and, if you're hiking in fall, will be treated to the colorful changing leaves. This hike starts out moderate but does have you climb since it takes you up the north side of Winding Stair Mountain. The trail is easy to follow though, so no need to worry about losing it. Take your time on this one and enjoy the beauty all around you. Robbers Cave State Park Within Robbers Cave State Park, you will find several trails that range in difficulty and length. One of our favorites is the Rough Canyon Trail. It's a 2.7-mile loop trail that takes you over some rough, rocky terrain around the park. You'll see lots of cool rock formations and, if you're there during wetter months, you'll also be treated to views of the Rough Canyon Stream. This trail is well-marked but slightly less used than some of the other trails in the park, which makes for a peaceful day in the great outdoors. Getting outside to enjoy some fresh air and exercise is always a good idea. Whether you're hiking in the fall to see the leaves changing color or in the spring when the streams, lakes, and rivers are at their fullest, you're sure to enjoy these great hiking trails. What are you waiting for, go take a hike in Sallisaw!   Image via Pixabay

Are you looking for a unique pickup truck as your next vehicle? Great news — Jeep is back with a pickup for 2020. Meet the 2020 Jeep Gladiator, the pickup that can handle any adventure you plan with friends or family. Exterior Options The 2020 Gladiator is a wonderful truck, but at its core, it is still a Jeep. This means you have a little more flexibility with it than most other pickups. You can choose one of two roof styles. The first is a hardtop that gives you the traditional pickup feel. If you crave the wind in your face, consider the zipperless Sunrider soft top. It brings back the traditional wide-open Jeep feeling. The windshield also folds down for an even more open experience. more The bed of the truck features a rugged steel box with a waterproof power outlet. Keep your gear safe and covered under the sliding tonneau cover. It quickly covers the length of the bed to keep everything out of sight. Gear up for your next adventure and take advantage of the trail rail system that includes adjustable tie-down points to keep your equipment secure regardless of the terrain. Trail Rated Take your Gladiator off-road. The truck features standard heavy-duty axles that easily handle a variety of terrain. The skid plates keep all of the essential components protected while you have fun. You can tow with both sides of the truck, as there are standard front tow hooks on every Gladiator. Run through up to 30 inches of water, thanks to the truck's water fording features. If you are planning on visiting an especially rough stretch of ground, try the Rubicon trim. This trim features 11.1 inches of ground clearance. It keeps the truck safe while you explore that hidden gem that's been on your to-do list. The standard rock rails keep your box protected around loose boulders. Towing Capability Whether you are going off-road or staying on the pavement, the Gladiator easily hauls your toys to your next adventure. With the proper equipment, it handles a maximum towing capacity of 7,650 pounds. It also handles a payload of up to 1,700 pounds. If you plan on towing a lot of stuff with the truck, add the available trailer brake control to the truck. It provides adjustable braking power to your trailer's electronic brakes. The park-view camera gives you the ability to use a 4x trailer hitch zoom so that you can line up the truck and trailer with ease. Stay Connected on the Road Step inside the cab and stay connected on the road. The Uconnect system lets you connect your Apple or Android device to the truck for access to your favorite apps no matter where you are. Once you arrive, grab your Bluetooth speaker and bring it outside to enjoy your music with a view. The speaker is waterproof up to three feet and dustproof. Do you catch yourself daydreaming about your new 2020 Jeep Gladiator? Stop by Blue Ribbon today and explore the truck in person. Our friendly staff looks forward to answering your questions as they find you your perfect vehicle.   Image via jeep.com

Spending time outdoors is a great way to relax and enjoy where you live. Parks, in particular, are a great source of entertainment and relaxation with family and friends. Brushy Lake State Park is located near Sallisaw, OK, and it offers a wide range of activities and entertainment options for people nearby. If you travel often or you are in the area, it is a great place to spend your days and maybe a few nights. Here is what you can find and do at Brushy Lake State Park. RV Camping Brushy Lake State Park is equipped for RV camping. It has 23 camping sites, which include spaces for RVs. They are concrete-lined so there is no weight limit or fear of getting stuck in the mud. Each spot has access to electricity, water, and plumbing facilities so that you can stay and recharge for your trip. There are also comfort stations nearby where you can shower. It makes traveling in an RV much easier and more enjoyable. more Boating and Fishing If you are more into boating and fishing, then Brushy Lake State Park is a good place to go. It has a lighted boat ramp that makes it easy to get on and off of the lake. There are also several boat docks in the area. You can fish from the pier or just about anywhere else. There are multiple bodies of water to fish in and you may find different fish in each one. Water sports are not allowed on the lake, though. Biking and Hiking At the north end of Brushy Lake State Park, there is a team of volunteers that are building mountain bike trails. Each trail is nearly one mile in length. Although the trails are designed for mountain bikes, hikers are allowed on them as well. It is an excellent way to get out for some intense and exciting exercise. Volunteer Although the park is run by the Park Service, it is always looking for volunteers. You can volunteer to help develop new features and maintain the park as a way of spending some free time outdoors. For example, the team that is building the mountain bike trails is entirely comprised of volunteers. Over time, the trails will expand as the volunteers continue the construction of three and four-mile-long bike courses. They should provide a challenge to novice and advanced bikers and hikers alike. Brushy Lake State Park is full of fun things to do, but the best way to find out what you like to do in the park is to visit it yourself. Many people visit the park from miles around because it is a fun and enjoyable place to be. If you want to visit the park, make sure that you are properly prepared. Stop by your nearest Jeep dealer to see what is available on the lot. That way, you can find a car that is ready for the rugged terrain of a state park. Image via Flickr by dweinberger | CC BY 2.0 | Cropped from original

Do you need a minivan that keeps everyone comfortable while reducing your trips to the gas station? Meet the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. This seven-passenger van has space for everyone and helps reduce the number of required stops during a trip. Combined Mileage The 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid comes in five trim levels; the 35th-anniversary Hybrid Limited, Hybrid Limited, 35th-anniversary Hybrid Touring L, Hybrid Touring L, and Hybrid Touring Plus. All five trims can reach a combined mileage of 520 miles. This combines the 32 miles that the hybrid battery produces with the 488 miles from the traditional engine. The combined distance means that you can keep everyone comfortable and sleeping on an overnight drive without having to stop for a refueling break. more As a safety precaution, don't forget just because the van does not need a break; it is okay for the driver to take as many as required for safe driving. Regenerative Braking Charge your van on the go by simply tapping the brakes with regenerative braking. Every time you hit the brakes, the van captures energy from the brakes and sends it to the battery. As soon as you put your foot on the brakes, the generator kicks in and helps slow the car faster. The energy created in doing this flows back to the battery pack for future use. This is an excellent feature if your day-to-day commute includes a lot of stop-and-go traffic as the system kicks in with every tap on the brake pedal. Charging Options You have an option when charging the battery at the end of your trip. The standard charger that comes with the vehicle is a Level 1 120-volt AC charger. This easily connects to any grounded outlet in your garage. It is also portable for when you want to take your next family vacation. You have the option of using public chargers in certain parking garages around the country. Another option is having a professional install a Mopar fast charger in your home. This system speeds up the traditional charge time. Rather than waiting 14 hours for a full charge, your van is ready to hit the road in two hours. Keep Everyone Entertained Fewer stops at the gas pump are good for your wallet, but it also means you need to keep everyone from getting cranky on the road. The Pacifica includes the available Uconnect Theater.  The system consists of a Blu-ray player with two HDMI inputs. Keep your focus on the road as your passengers enjoy their movies on wireless headphones. Wireless streaming is also available, although it is not compatible with Apple devices. When the film is over, they can enjoy a variety of games and other apps as the miles pass by. The system also comes with two Bluetooth remotes. The movie displays on screens that are attached to the back of the front seats. Are you ready to meet the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid in person before your next trip? Stop by Blue Ribbon today. Our friendly staff is waiting to help you find the van of your dreams.   Image via chrysler.com