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When you see a good-looking car or truck passing by, often the first thing that catches your eye is the chrome detailing. Most car manufacturers, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, use it on their models to one extent or another. It shines in contrast to the paintwork and adds a touch of class to any vehicle. However, if chrome is not cared for, it can become dull and pitted with grime and road contaminants. Before cleaning your chrome, it is best to know what type it is. Types of Chrome The chrome parts and detailing on your car could be either metal or plastic that has undergone a chromium-electroplating process. Going back to the 1970s and before, the chrome parts would all have been metal. However, as the process for plating chrome on plastic was developed, more manufacturers switched to this lighter and more cost-effective option. more While looking great, plastic chrome is not as hard-wearing as metal and should be cleaned with care. Too much or too vigorous polishing and buffing can reveal the underlying material. Cleaning Chrome To start cleaning your chrome, you should hose down the areas you are working on. Remove as much as possible of the physical dirt, mud, and contaminants. Then, if you are cleaning the grille, for example, apply a good quality chrome cleaner to its surface and use a soft brush to help work it in and get rid of the more persistent bits. A good chrome cleaner will contain lubricants that allow you to clean the chrome without scratching the surface. Work on small areas at a time and don't allow the cleaner to dry on the chrome. If you find stubborn stains that you can't shift, you can use a fine synthetic steel wool to help you remove them. Once the area is clean, rinse it off with water. Then, using a clean microfiber cloth, carefully dry the chrome. You don't want stains from the cleaner or any water spots. Polishing For polishing metal chrome parts, your car's manual usually contains advice about the best materials to use to clean and polish them. Alternatively, you could ask at your local auto-detailing shop. They will suggest the right types of compounds, polishes, and tools to use for the type of chrome on your vehicle. For metal, an electric rotary buffer might be the best tool for bringing out a high-quality and long-lasting shine. Plastic chrome needs a gentler approach, so using a mild sealant and polishing by hand will give you the best results. Apply the polish to the surface and slowly work the product into one small area at a time. Gradually polish each area until there is no longer any of the product visible and your chrome is gleaming. The protective wax in the polish seals the surface, making it more resistant to staining and oxidation, reducing the need for frequent cleaning. Regularly cleaning your 4x4, especially after you've been off-roading, will help to keep it in pristine condition, particularly the shining chrome. Image via Flickr by Mike Babcock /Under use by CC BY 2.0

We are in full holiday swing here at Ourisman Chrysler Jeep Dodge. Our show rooms have Christmas tunes playing, garland is hung and trees are up and decorated! You can’t help but be in the holiday spirit! We have held two company parties, one for our managers held in the Maryland area and one for all of our employees held in Virginia. Last Saturday our employees enjoyed drinks, dinner, dancing and some even won door prizes! The DJ had everyone on the dance floor. You couldn’t help but have a good time! We are open through the Holidays, except for Christmas Day. Come celebrate with us and get in the Christmas spirit! Tip of the Day to Keep Your Car Running Smoothly As we all know, the holidays are upon us. This, of course, means that traveling for many. For those who may be traveling by car, we consulted with our certified technicians and here are some tips they provided: make sure your tires are inflated to spec. This is very important. What spec is will vary per car.  Additionally, make sure your windshield wipers are working up to code. You don’t know if you’ll get caught in rain, snow, or sleet. We hope everyone travels safely this holiday season! Employee Sneak Peak Bouba Diallo- Sales Consultant Bouba has been with us for 19 years! Before becoming a sales consultant, he spent his time working as a restaurant manager. When he began looking for a new job, his cousin recommended he come work at Ourisman! Bouba’s favorite part about the job is the environment. He loves the interaction with the customers and that each day is different. Bouba says the key is planning your day ahead of time and sticking with it while at work! When Bouba is not at work, he enjoys spending time with his family or watching European soccer. He is a big soccer fan! If you have ever been a customer of Bouba’s, you know what a treat it is! Community Shout Out This year, as in years past, Ourisman Automotive is delighted to contribute to Toys For Tots. Toys For Tots is an organization run by the US Marine Corps Reserves. The Marine Corps distributes toys to families and children who cannot afford to buy gifts for Christmas. We are happy to put a smile on children’s faces! https://www.toysfortots.org/ Image via Toys For Tots

For true Jeep lovers, the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK retains the styling and features that display its strength, power, and rugged off-road capabilities. Here are four reasons for loving the Wrangler JK. Capability The Wrangler JK is powered by a fuel-efficient 3.6-liter V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque to all for wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic transmission is also available. When smoothly cruising down the highway, you'll get up to 21 mpg, but the torque of this engine also gives you superb low-speed crawling capability when the going gets tough. On steep inclines, hill-start assist keeps the brakes applied for a couple of seconds as you move your foot from the brake to the accelerator. Hill-descent control helps to adjust speed and braking, allowing you to concentrate on negotiating obstacles when you're traveling downhill. more When properly equipped, the Wrangler can tow up to 3,500 pounds. Trailer sway control is standard and, when the system senses you need it, cuts in to counteract excess trailer movement. Exterior Styling With the Wrangler's shape and styling, it couldn't be anything but a Jeep with its heritage going back to 1941. From the unmistakable seven-slot grille flanked by the round headlights and flared fenders, to the ultra-utility profile with its high ground clearance, it looks capable of almost anything. Whether you opt for the two- or four-door model, you have a choice of a soft top, hard top, or body-color hard top to suit your style. Of course, it looks great with no top at all and the windshield folded down. You can opt for removable steel half-doors for the freedom of the open air, or choose standard full-frame doors with available power windows and locks. You also have a great choice of wheel and tire combinations to suit the terrain you drive on and to add individual flair to your Wrangler. Interior Just because the Wrangler JK is designed with off-road performance in mind doesn't mean that interior comfort is sacrificed. The contoured seats are comfortable and supportive in even the roughest conditions. Depending on the trim level you choose, you can have premium cloth upholstery or the luxury of leather in a variety of natural colors. When you're out in the muddy wilderness, you don't have to worry about getting dirt inside. Every Wrangler features a washable interior that you can hose down. Removable drain plugs let the water out. Entertainment and Connectivity As standard, you get an eight-speaker audio system with a CD player, auxiliary input, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. Also available, depending on the trim level, are a 6.5-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, USB ports, Bluetooth with smartphone integration, navigation system, 115-volt power outlet, and a premium nine-speaker Alpine audio system. With the legendary Jeep Wrangler JK, you know what you are going to get, and it doesn't pretend to be anything it's not. To take a closer look, head down to Ourisman CDJR, where they'll be happy to help. Image via jeep.com

Alexandria, named after John Alexander, an 18th-century Scottish landowner, was founded in 1749 and has a rich and varied history. It was one of the 10 busiest ports in America and an important tobacco trading post. While the largest slave-trading company in the country was based here, Alexandria also was home to a large free black community. During the Civil War, the city operated as a supply center for Union troops. Here are four of Alexandria's historic sites where you can trace the history of the city. Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site During the Civil War, a system of forts and batteries were constructed that were known as the Defenses of Washington. Fort Ward, named for the first naval officer of the Union to be killed in the Civil War, is the best-preserved of these fortifications, and some areas have been reconstructed and restored to their original condition. You can visit the fort and museum, located in a 45-acre park, and learn about Alexandria as an occupied city, and its later importance for the rights of African-Americans. There are living history more programs where you get the chance to meet and talk to re-enactors portraying Civil War soldiers and civilians. Freedom House Museum Franklin and Armfield was once the largest slave-trading company in America, and the Freedom House Museum is housed in what was once part of the company's headquarters. The building was used as a pen for enslaved individuals being shipped to the cotton and sugar plantations of the Deep South. Exhibits will enable you to understand the harsh reality of Alexandria's role in the domestic slave trade through first-person accounts and details of the company's operations. Alexandria History Museum at The Lyceum The Lyceum was constructed in 1839 to promote educational and cultural opportunities for the public. Among other uses, the building also served as a hospital for Civil War casualties. Now, the Alexandria History Museum houses exhibitions telling the story of Alexandria through archaeological artifacts, historic finds, maps, photographs, and original artwork. Changing exhibitions feature at the museum throughout the year. Torpedo Factory Art Center On the day World War I ended, work began on the construction of a U.S. naval torpedo station in Alexandria. During World War II, there was intense production of submarine and aircraft torpedoes. With this growth in production, 10 more buildings were added to the complex. After the war, the buildings were used as a storage facility until 1969 when a proposal to turn the buildings into working studio spaces for artists was accepted. In 1974, the Torpedo Factory Art Center opened to the public. More than 165 professional artists work, exhibit and sell their art here. The many galleries feature guest exhibitions and events throughout the year, and the center attracts more than half a million visitors a year. These sites and others provide an insight into a city that played an important role, not only in the history of Northern Virginia but also that of the United States. Image via Flickr by sabreguy29 /Under use by CC BY 2.0

When you've got a young family, you need a vehicle that has the space to carry them and all their gear safely — and probably their friends and all their gear too. The 2019 Chrysler Pacifica is a spacious and versatile minivan that is the perfect family vehicle. In 2018, the Pacifica was named a Best Buy by Consumer Digest, Cars.com named it 2018 Family Car of the Year, and the Insurance Industry for Highway Safety made it a Top Safety Pick when fitted with certain equipment. Here are four of its family-friendly features. Interior Space The Pacifica comes with standard seating for seven people, although you can opt for a second-row bench seat instead of the captain's chairs, which increases the capacity to eight. Even with a full load of people, there are 32.3 cubic feet of room in the back for stowing some gear, too. You also get significant under-seat storage along with a variety of storage bins, map pockets, sliding drawers, and the ever-essential cup holders. more When you need to carry a combination of people and cargo, the Pacifica's class-exclusive Stow ‘n Go seating and storage system allows you to easily fold the second- and third-row seats into the floor. You get up to 243 seating configurations, making it simple for the Pacifica to fit your lifestyle. On those occasions when you've got more cargo than people, with the third-row seats folded, you'll have 87.5 cubic feet of cargo space. With second and third rows stowed you get an impressive 140.5 cubic feet. When things get messy, the Limited trim even offers you an integrated vacuum cleaner that reaches throughout the cabin. Convenience With a family, you often feel as though you need another pair of hands, and some of the available features on the Pacifica provide you with the closest thing to it. With remote keyless entry and start, you don't need to fumble for keys when your hands are full. Power-sliding rear doors and a power liftgate help to make your life easier, and with the available hands-free option, just a wave of your foot gives you easy access. Getting in and out of the third-row seats is made simple by the second-row Easy Tilt system. Entertainment The standard infotainment system features a 7-inch touchscreen, six-speaker audio with USB and auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth wireless technology, and smartphone integration. Higher trim levels offer satellite radio, an 8.4-inch touchscreen, and premium 13-speaker sound system. The Limited trim can be upgraded with a 20-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and a rear entertainment system including HDMI inputs, Blu-ray player, dual 10-inch seatback touch screens, and wireless headphones. Safety When you're traveling with your family, you want to know they are safe. The Pacifica has a range of available safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, and many more. To take a closer look at the family-friendly Chrysler Pacifica, head down to Ourisman Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram. Image via Flickr by JLaw45 /Under use by CC BY 2.0

The holidays are always an exciting time of year. It doesn't matter if you are young or old, there is just something magical about the holiday season. The city of Alexandria adds to the magic with several holiday events to help get you in the spirit. Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend The 48th Annual Scottish Christmas Walk Weekend & Parade will take place on Friday, Nov. 30 and Saturday, Dec. 1. The parade showcases marching units of Scottish clans playing the bagpipes and Scottish drums along with dancers and re-enactment groups. The parade starts at St. Asaph and Wolfe Streets and ends at Market Square. Make sure to head to the Square for the end of the parade so you can listen to the massed band concert. more Alexandria Boat Parade of Lights The fun doesn't stop with the Scottish Christmas parade. Make sure to head to Alexandria's harbor at 5:30 p.m. on December 1 to see the Holiday Boat Parade of Lights. The 2018 event will mark the 18th year of this fun event that USA Today named one of the Top 10 Best Holiday Parades. It features brightly lit boats cruising down the Potomac River along the historic waterfront. Tree Lighting Ceremony Don't miss the annual tree lighting ceremony in Market Square. The event starts with a welcome from the Town Crier and some words from Mayor Allision Stilbergerg. You'll also get to see a performance by Santa's Frosty Follies from the Metropolitan Fine Arts Center, and the kids can visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. This event is free to attend, and anyone is welcome. The Santa Train The annual Santa Train is one of Alexandria's most popular holiday events. You can buy tickets at Whistle Stop Hobbies for a unique train ride with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The trains depart from King Street Station in Alexandria and go to Old Town Manassas before returning to the station. Santa and Mrs. Claus greet all the passengers and have treats for the kids, and during the 30-minute stop in Manassas, there is time for hot chocolate and a question-and-answer session with Santa. Alexandria Candlelight Tour Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the holidays on Saturday, Dec. 8 and enjoy the laid-back pace of the Alexandria Candlelight Tour. This popular event takes you through Gadsby's Tavern Museum, Carlyle House, and the Lee-Fendall House to see the holiday displays. This year, you'll also get to see the Alexandria Black History Museum and a miniature display that tells the story of African American life in Alexandria. The tours include period-themed food, seasonal spirits, and some entertainment. Tickets cost just $25 for adults and $5 for children. There are so many ways to get into the holiday spirit in Alexandria. You can also take a walk down historic King Street to see all the holiday lights and displays or check out the different Santa experiences throughout the season. Celebrate in style this season! Image via Flickr by Lake Mead National Recreation Area /Under use by CC BY-SA 2.0

The Ram 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck that's available in multiple configurations. The 2019 model received a complete redesign that includes the addition of a mild-hybrid system, extra space for the rear seat passengers, and a significant weight loss. Here are some reasons why Ram lovers should experience the all-new Ram 1500. The Exterior Design The 1500 comes in the Quad Cab or Crew Cab. Both configurations have room for up to six passengers, more but the Crew Cab gives the rear seat passengers extra legroom, and it comes with full-size rear doors. Buyers can choose from seven different trim levels which add features and technology as you work up through the models. These include LED headlights and fog lights, chrome exterior trim, the RamBox bed storage system, and a towing and trailering system. The Power All the Ram 1500 models come standard with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine that produces 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, and all but the HFE offer the option for a 5.7-liter V-8. This larger engine delivers 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque and comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V-8 also comes with Ram's new eTorque mild-hybrid system to help increase fuel economy. The Technology The Ram 1500 comes well-equipped with standard and optional technology. Starting with the Laramie model, you'll get an 8.4-inch touch screen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Uconnect infotainment system. The Longhorn adds a navigation system, and the three higher-end trims offer the option for a 12-inch touch screen. The midlevel comes with a 115-volt power outlet, and the Longhorn even comes with a CD player. The 2019 Ram 1500 is one of the first trucks to come with fast-charging C-type USB ports. It comes with four of them along with a fifth regular USB port. The Utility When equipped, the 1500 can tow up to 12,750 pounds and handle a 2,300-pound payload. The optional RamBox bed storage system provides large power-locking storage boxes in the bed of the truck, which now comes with 110-volt power outlets inside. RamBox also includes movable cleats and a movable cargo fence. Inside, there is plenty of small item storage, including bins under the floor and in the center of the rear bench seat that folds down to reveal a large bin. The rear seat bottoms in the higher trims fold up to open up the floor space and make room for larger items that you want to keep inside. The Safety All the 1500 models come standard with a rearview camera, while the Laramie, Longhorn, and Limited offer the option to add several advanced safety systems. These include forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and a surround-view camera. You can also add lane departure warning and a self-parking system. The 2019 Ram 1500 has many new features for the new model year. Along with the added space in the cabin, it is over 200 pounds lighter than the previous model and features more upscale materials. Image via ramtruck.com

The holidays are right around the corner, and whether you are someone who leaves your shopping to the last minute or you get it done early, you can find that special gift for almost anyone on your list in Alexandria, Virginia. Alexandria was named one of the best indie boutique scenes on the East Coast by Where Magazine, and it offers a wide variety of stores from small boutiques to large national chains. Here are our favorite downtown Alexandria shops for holiday gifts. The Christmas Attic The Christmas Attic is a 35-year old shop owned by a local Alexandria family. It is not only a great place to shop for Christmas gifts but also a must-see stop for any trip to Alexandria any time of year. The shop has two floors of items for every holiday and many unique, hard-to-find gifts. Stop into The Christmas Attic to find handblown glass, holiday village houses and collectibles, and a wide variety of ornaments. more The Hour The Hour has a large collection of cocktail glassware with both vintage and new items available. The Old Town Alexandria location has two floors filled with everything you need to serve cocktails in style. This is one of the only stores in the U.S. to offer this type of collection, and it includes vintage shakers, trays, and pitchers. Owner Victoria Vergason is also launching her own vintage-inspired line with some of the products available right at the store as well as online. Hooray for Books Books make great gifts, and you can find one for everyone on your list at Hooray for Books, This local bookstore is the only independent bookstore in Alexandria. It offers a large selection of new books for children, adults, and young adults as well as toys for the kids, puzzles, cards, and fun gift items. Red Barn Mercantile Red Barn Mercantile is located on King Street. The owner of this store offers both antique and new furniture, home décor, kitchenware, and gifts. Red Barn Mercantile carries items for every room in the house, and you are sure to find something for everyone on your Christmas list in one easy stop at this store. Shop for unique bath soaps, candles, dish towels, and woven cotton tote bags. You can even find unusual gifts here, such as a lobster bottle opener or Little's Q BBQ Sauces. The Dog Park You can shop in downtown Alexandria for gifts for your own four-legged friend or for someone who has a dog. This small dog and cat boutique specializes in fun gift items such as mugs, picture frames, and magnets. Stop by to see if you can find something with your breed on it to take home, or buy a gift for your pet sitter or dog walker. Shopping in downtown Alexandria is always fun during the holidays. There are many local shops offering items you don't often find in larger stores, and the area is always beautifully decorated for the season. Image via Flickr by Dougtone /Under use by CC BY-SA 2.0

Every year, Strategic Vision asks new car buyers what they liked most about their new vehicles within the first 90 days, along with what they didn't like about the vehicles. The company then analyzes the results to come up with the best models — according to drivers in real-world situations — in several different categories. In 2018, they surveyed 42,000 people, and several Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles came out on top. The 2018 Dodge Durango For the fifth year in a row, the Dodge Durango came out on top in the midsize SUV segment. Owners loved the combination of utility, class-leading towing capabilities, and advanced technology. The aggressive styling of the Durango was another reason why drivers liked this SUV. This truck comes standard with an award-winning 3.6-liter V-6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It has a best-in-class towing more capability of up to 6,200 pounds. The optional 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 generates even more with 360 horsepower, 390 pound-feet of torque, and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds, while the newest SRT model has a 475-horsepower V-8 engine. The 2018 Jeep Renegade Jeep Renegade owners like the fact that this vehicle delivers excellent off-road capabilities and a nice on-road ride. Its versatile roof also gives passengers an open-air feeling. The powertrains in the Renegade include a new 1.3-liter turbo four-cylinder that gets up to 177 horsepower and 200 pound-feet of torque, and it comes with an automatic stop-start function to help increase fuel efficiency. The 2018 Jeep Renegade also gets new, advanced safety technology including adaptive cruise control, a self-parking system, and front parking sensors. The 2018 Ram 2500/3500 The Ram 2500/3500 received the top honors for total quality among Heavy Duty Pickup Trucks. These trucks offer unbeatable capabilities in the three-quarter and one-ton pickup class. This truck can tow up to 31,210 pounds when equipped, and it can handle up to 7,380 pounds of payload. The Ram also offers its owners some innovative features that you don't find in other pickup trucks, such as the five-link coil suspension and the option for the air suspension. Ram offers the 2500/3500 in several trims that range from a basic work truck to the ultimate luxury vehicle with the latest infotainment system and convenience features. These trucks also offer the option for the RamBox locking storage system in the bed which provides a secure place to keep tools and gear. The Dodge Brand In addition to the three vehicles from the Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram lineups that won Strategic Vision awards, the Dodge brand was also named the best Mass-Market Brand in total quality. From the class-leading towing power and durability of the Ram 2500/3500 to the technology and off-road capabilities of the Dodge Durango and the Jeep Renegade, there is a lot to love about FCA U.S. vehicles. The Total Quality Impact Report offers insight into how customers feel about their vehicles in their own words, and there is good reason why FCA came out on top in several categories. Image via Flickr by grizzlybear-se /Under use by CC BY 1.0

Choosing the right kind of oil is something that is usually left up to the service station to decide. Follow these mechanic's tips to arm yourself with knowledge about choosing the right automotive oil for your vehicle. Viscosity is an important indicator of the best oil for different operating conditions. The lower the number, the less it will thicken in the cold, so different oils should be used depending on if you're in Minnesota or Death Valley. Once you have the right viscosity determined, you can begin shopping for oil. Note that it is recommended that once you choose a type of oil, that you stick with it moving forward to maintain the best performance. Let's explore the different types of oil that are available for consideration. more Conventional Oil This is the most common type of automotive oil used at dealerships, and it is the least expensive at the automotive store. It's generally quite basic, offering little in the way of additives, and is best for car owners who are fastidious about frequent oil changes. Premium Conventional Oil This is the standard new car oil and is available in common viscosities that best respond to most climate variations. With this type of oil, it is important to have the oil changed every 4,000 miles or four months to keep your car operating smoothly. Full Synthetic Oil Full synthetic oil is designed for high-tech engines and has some advantages over conventional oils. Synthetic oils are designed to be more effective at resisting breakdown, withstanding high temperatures, and flowing at cold temperatures, which reduces engine wear during start-ups on frigid mornings. Synthetic oil is more expensive than conventional oil and can cost two to four times as much as the traditional option. That said, it can extend the life of the oil and reduces the need for oil changes to only once or twice per year. Some car manuals indicate a requirement for synthetic oils, but older cars can also benefit from synthetics as they can prevent sludge buildup that often plagues older vehicles. Synthetic Blend Oil Comprised of premium conventional oil mixed with a dose of synthetic oil, a synthetic blend is designed to provide for somewhat heavier loads and associated higher engine temperatures. Their formulation makes them somewhat less volatile, meaning they evaporate less and reduce oil loss. The additional protection they provide make them popular with larger trucks and SUVs, and their cost is just a few cents more than conventional oil. High Mileage Oil An option for a rapidly increasing segment of the market, high mileage oil is specially formulated for cars with over 75,000 miles. These oils were formulated specifically to respond to specific needs of aging engines. Regular oil changes are important to protecting and extending the life of an engine, and the choices of oils seem nearly limitless. Before you choose an oil, be sure to consult your car manual for instructions on the optimal oil to use in your particular vehicle. Image via Flickr by Jonesemyr /Under use by CC BY-ND 2.0

Located just outside of Washington, D.C., historic Old Town Alexandria is a charming cobblestone area brimming with rich history, funky shopping, and delightful restaurants. A landmark of the Old Town landscape, the Torpedo Factory Art Center attracts over 500,000 artists, visitors, and tourists each year. Established in 1974, it is housed in a former munitions plant (hence the name) and houses the largest number of working artists open studios under one roof. Explore all that you can see and do on a visit to the Torpedo Factory. Galleries The Torpedo Factory boasts thousands of square feet dedicated to showcasing the works of established and rising artists alike among its many gallery spaces. The Target Gallery is the center's space dedicated to exhibiting contemporary pieces. This gallery hosts eight exhibitions each year focusing on contemporary works. more Gallery 311 is the newest gallery at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. This gallery represents works created by members of the Torpedo Factory Artists Association, the founding entity of the Torpedo Center. The Artist's Association is a guild of nearly 300 visual artists that is dedicated to opening their workspaces to public visits. One of the original medium-specific galleries at the Torpedo Factory, the Scope Gallery aims to showcase high-quality clay work. Scope features the works of over 30 local ceramic artists that regularly exhibit in rotating monthly themes. Classes Each year, over 10,000 children and adults take art classes at the Torpedo Factory. The Art League School offers classes in virtually all of the visual arts, from drawing to jewelry making to fiber arts. Classes convene weekly in most cases and are taught by highly qualified, professional art instructors to students of all levels. The Art League also offers a wide array of classes for children ages 5 and older. Alongside more traditional visual art mediums, children can also explore such art forms as cartooning and clay animation. During the summer months, the Art League offers summer camps at the Torpedo Factory focusing primarily on painting, sculpting, printmaking, and drawing. Specific subject matter camps are also available for children who wish to focus their energies on one medium. Special Events One of the more spectacular settings in the Washington D.C. area, the Torpedo Factory Art Center makes a striking choice for hosting private events . The unique architecture features chic industrial exposed pipes, ductwork, and a smokestack that harkens back to the building's former historical function. Bright white paint offset by playfully colored accents creates a welcoming feeling that can be customized for any occasion. A dramatic two-story atrium overlooks the building's main space, with a catwalk from which to view events below. The art-filled halls of the building lend an elegant air to the space that impresses guests at the many weddings, parties, and receptions held here. Whether you are an established artist or a budding Picasso, the Torpedo Factory Art Center is a true treasure in the Washington D.C. area. Its bright, sun-filled spaces are a natural fit for the creativity within the numerous artist's studios. The art center successfully democratizes art, making it accessible to anyone who steps inside. Image via Flickr by Ron Cogswel l/Under use by CC BY 2.0

Are you searching for a car that keeps the entire family cruising along in safety and comfort? Look no further than the 2018 Dodge Durango, packed with features that make it the ultimate family vehicle. Power This midsize three-row SUV packs astounding power to get you where you need to be. Available in rear- or front-wheel drive configurations, the Durango also comes with three muscular engine options to best suit your family's needs. The base model is equipped with a very respectable 3.6-liter V-6 engine that will happily suit most drivers. more Those seeking quicker highway acceleration will appreciate the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8. The larger 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 is only available in the vehicle's high-performance SRT model and is easily the most powerful engine in the midsize SUV segment. This engine can get up to 60 mph in as little as 4.4 seconds. All three engines come with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Safety Safety features are among the most important criteria when considering a family car, and the Durango definitely does not disappoint. Standard on the SRT model, all other trim levels can opt for the suite of impressive safety features including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Additional blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert is available. All trim levels come equipped with a rearview camera. Interior Cargo Space Whether you are carting groceries, sports equipment, or backpacks for the day-to-day school carpool run, a spacious cargo area is an essential consideration. The 2018 Dodge Durango is nearly unrivaled in its class with 84.5 cubic feet of cargo room when both back seats are folded down. The front passenger seat also collapses to provide additional room when transporting exceptionally long items. With all seating rows in use, the Durango boasts an impressive 17.2 cubic feet behind the third row, enough space to fit an astonishing 12 suitcases. Seating The flexibility of the Durango's interior reveals up to 50 different seating configurations to customize your passenger and cargo carrying needs. The Durango seats up to seven passengers in plush, cloth seats or available Nappa leather-trimmed seats. Second-row Fold and Tumble captain chairs allow for easy movement between the second and third rows. Powered front row seats are available with ventilated heating and cooling for a supremely comfortable ride. Passengers in the back seats are not overlooked, with access to center console access to vent controls and USB ports. If you're transporting little ones, the second row comes equipped with Latch child seat connectors for easy installation. The third-row seats include upper tethers. Technology The Durango's Uconnect systems keep all of the controls close at hand for simple customization of navigation, audio, and climate options. A large 7-inch touch screen keeps everything accessible with Bluetooth, voice command, and more. The steering wheel also has controls to make quick adjustments without taking your eyes off of the road. With the 2018 Dodge Durango, gone are the days of backseat family arguments. Providing spacious and comfortable seating, there is room for everyone to sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Take one out for a test drive today. Image via Dodge.com