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A minivan shouldn't just be a big box on wheels. It should come with comfort, all the features that make any vehicle exciting, and reliable capability. The 2019 Chrysler Pacifica has all those and more, making it one of the best — if not the best — minivan for your life's adventures. Here are just a handful of the reasons why the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica should be your next travel companion. Amazing Space The 2019 Chrysler Pacifica's interior is one of the most dynamic, customizable cabins you'll find anywhere. It seats eight people, which makes it a fantastic family vehicle, but it's the way the seats are designed that make this a minivan above the rest. The Pacifica offers 243 seating configurations, enabling you to build the perfect cabin for your adventures. more If you need to pack in more cargo than passengers, the Pacifica is your new best friend. Upgrade to the Stow 'n Go seating and storage system to fold the second and third rows into the floor easily, creating a flat floor you can pack an impressive amount of gear on. For easy access to the third row, the second-row seats tilt forward. Comfortable Beyond Compare The comfort and convenience features you'll find in the 2019 Pacifica make the longest trips comfortable ones. Get your Pacifica with heated and ventilated front seats to stay comfortable even in the harshest months. Use the great storage solutions throughout the cabin to organize and keep tidy. Each Pacifica comes standard with active noise cancellation technology that keeps the cabin quiet and cozy. Nappa leather-upholstered seats help you enjoy the journey. With these comfort features, your trips just became the most relaxing part of your day. Entertainment and Connectivity A family vehicle should keep everyone entertained, and the Pacifica does a great job. Keep the restless back-seat riders busy with the available Uconnect Theater, which adds two 10-inch touch screens to the back of the front headrests. For the front seat, the available 8.4-inch touch-screen display lets you connect your phone via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay to use many of your favorite apps directly through your Pacifica, such as navigation and podcast streaming services. With this year's incarnation of this premier minivan, you're more connected and entertained on the go than you've ever been. Safety First A family vehicle should be safe, above everything else. The 2019 Pacifica's driver-assisting technologies help you avoid accidents before they ever happen. Full-speed forward collision warning with active braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, and blind spot monitoring are some of the technological features that take keeping you and your family safe to the next level. Feel confident on the road in your 2019 Chrysler Pacifica. Give us a visit at Ourisman CDJR to get a test drive of the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica. If you're ready for your next vehicle, let us show you why this family-friendly minivan can be your home away from home. Image used with permission via Chrysler.com / cropped from original

If you're looking for something to do in Alexandria, you're in luck. The celebrations, events, festivals, and more coming to the Alexandria, Virginia, area soon will keep you busy and entertained throughout the summer. The city brings together culture and history to such a high degree that there's always something to explore and celebrate. Here are just a few of the fun summer events coming to Alexandria that we're looking forward to. Portside in Old Town Summer Festival, June 22 Spend a day of fun enjoying live music, cold beer, and cultural experiences at the Portside in Old Town Summer Festival. Musicians will perform in a great array of genres, from Latin to Ethiopian jazz. You'll have ample opportunity to learn about Alexandria's history, peruse local artwork, play musical instruments, enjoy lawn games, and much more. This event will be fun for the whole family. more The festival will be held from 2-8 p.m., rain or shine, at the Waterfront Park in Old Town Alexandria. USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration, July 13 Celebrate our history as a nation and the city of Alexandria at the USA/Alexandria Birthday Celebration. This year, America will turn 243 and Alexandria 270. To celebrate, the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra will play while you get the chance to enjoy food vendors, a patriotic birthday cake, and more. The best part of the whole night is the fantastic firework display that lights up the sky. The celebration will be held from 7-10 p.m. at Oronoco Bay Park along the Potomac waterfront. Make sure to come early so you can find a good spot to set up a blanket and enjoy the fireworks. Admission is free. 2019 Around the World Cultural Food Festival, Aug. 17 Experience cultures from all over the world at the 2019 Around the World Cultural Food Festival. Watch traditional dances, take in the cultural arts and crafts, and try foods from many different countries, all in one day. This festival will be in Washington, D.C., but the experience will be worth the drive. The Around the World Cultural Food Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 17 at Freedom Plaza and Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington, about 8 miles away from Alexandria. Admission to the festival is free, but VIP tickets are available. Sips & Secrets: A Speakeasy Night, Sept. 14 Celebrate Alexandria's past and the history of the Lee-Fendall House Museum at Sips & Secrets. Explore the Prohibition era at this fun event, where you can dance the night away to jazz and ragtime. You can enjoy 1920s-style drinks, a Charleston contest, a flapper and mobster costume contest, and more. Sips & Secrets will be held at the Lee-Fendall House from 7-10 p.m. Sept. 14. Tickets range from $35 to $85. This is a 21-and-older event. Keep your eyes out for these and all the other fun events coming to Alexandria soon. Get out, experience, and enjoy everything that makes the Alexandria area one of the best cities around. Image via Flickr by xiquinhosilva. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 /cropped from original

Take a break from your daily grind to restart your body and mind. After long hours, week after week, your body and mind get tired, and there's no better way to refresh them than a visit to the spa. Pamper yourself — you've earned it. Enjoy an oasis of rejuvenation at these fantastic spas near Alexandria, Virginia. Live Health Center If you're looking for a great deal on a relaxing day at the spa, head over to Live Health Center. The professionally trained staff will ensure that you get everything you need to rejuvenate your mind and body. The spa offers various massages, including Swedish, deep tissue, sport, and couple massages. Sign up for a mini facial or deep cleanser facial to complete your experience. more If you want it all, sign up for a package that includes an hour-long body massage, a 30-minute hot stone treatment, and aromatherapy paraffin, all for $150.The Live Health Center is open from 9:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday. Aida Spa For a first-class spa experience, Aida Spa is one of the best in the area. It has everything you'd want from a spa, including facial and body treatments, body massages, waxing, manicures, pedicures, and more. You can easily spend hours here pampering yourself. Ever since the spa opened its doors, it's been receiving wonderful reviews from happy customers. Aida herself was trained and certified at an internationally renowned school in Paris. She's been offering her expertise for over 30 years. This spa's multiple packages let you get what you're looking for. Sign up for a two-hour facial and mani/pedi package, or go all the way up to the top four-hour package, which includes microdermabrasion, aromatherapy, and a spa mani/pedi. Aida's highly rated services, whichever ones you choose, make you feel beautiful and healthier. Aida Spa is open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Fountains Day Spa Fountains Day Spa is one of the most popular spas in the area, and for good reason. Whether you're looking for electrolysis treatment or a 30-minute massage, Fountains has you covered. Its selection of massages is extensive, ranging from Swedish massage to pregnancy massage. Body treatments, hand and foot treatments, reflexology sessions, tinting, facials, and more are also offered. The spa has a great selection of specials as well. Sign up for a Fountains Mini Delight special for $184.50 to get an hour and a half of reflexology, a mini-massage, and a mini-facial. If you want to refresh your face, the spa's great facial lets you spend 100 minutes enjoying the expert techniques and methods. Fountains Day Spa is open from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. You deserve a break, and there's no better way to spend that break than relaxing at any of these spas. Whether you're preparing for a big event or just want to feel like a new person, these spas offer an oasis that will leave you feeling beautiful, refreshed, and rejuvenated. Image via Flickr by Zenspa1. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The Jeep Wrangler has been the pinnacle of off-road capability for decades. The 2019 Wrangler maintains this position, bringing drivers more confidence and excitement both off-road and on-road. Your Wrangler, Your Way The 2019 Wrangler is highly customizable, letting you build the perfect vehicle for your adventures. The seven available trim levels let you find the best level of luxury and capability for you. Each adds onto the features of the last, so you can get a Wrangler with bare-bones features or one that has everything on the menu. Choose from the classic two-door models or the four-door Wrangler Unlimited versions. Get the soft top or the hardtop. Choose from Jeep's distinctive exterior paint colors to give your Wrangler a style that matches yours. The great number of options available to the Wrangler makes it difficult to find two exactly the same. more Superior 4x4 Let's be real — the Wrangler looks cool, but it wouldn't be the icon it is today without its emphasis on superior four-wheel-drive systems. The Wrangler is the king of the off-roads, thanks to Jeep's keen eye for engineering. The 2019 Wrangler has access to three 4x4 systems, each with its own specialty. The Selec-Trac system is the newest to the lineup. Its smart four-wheel system sends power where it's needed to give you peace of mind on the road. The Command-Trac's shift-on-the-fly system is perfect for traversing rocky terrain and towing. The Rock-Trac system is the best of the best, giving you the highest levels of torque and control to forge your own off-road paths. Both Brawn and Brains The Wrangler isn't just muscle — it's the smartest it's ever been. Its tech keeps you more entertained and connected while you're on the go. The 8.4-inch built-in touch-screen display is Apple CarPlay- and Android Auto-compatible, which lets you use many of your favorite features on your phone directly through your Jeep. The available 7-inch driver information cluster gives you important data on how your Wrangler is performing. The driver-assisting technologies keep you more aware of what's happening outside your vehicle. These and the other great smart features the 2019 Wrangler has brings this muscled icon into the modern era. Interior Excellence The 2019 Wrangler is as comfortable as it is tough. Inside, you'll find plenty of features that make commutes and trips easy. The two-door Wranglers seat four, and the four-door Wranglers seat five, but both offer an exceptional level of comfort. Choose your color of comfortable premium cloth or leather-trimmed seats. Stash what you need for your travels in the clever storage areas throughout the cabin. Upgrade to heated front seats and steering wheel to stay comfortable even in the harshest weather. An off-road vehicle should keep you just as relaxed when you're off-roading as it does on city streets, and the Wrangler pulls it off. When you're ready to take on the world in a 2019 Jeep Wrangler, give us a visit at Ourisman CDJR. We'd love to show you how the Wrangler can revolutionize your sense of adventure.

Whether you live in the Alexandria, Virginia, area or are just visiting, there are several attractions in the Old Town neighborhood that are well worth your time. Let's discuss some of these attractions and what they have to offer. King Street Located in the heart of Old Town, King Street has been named one of the “Great Streets” of America and “one of the best indie boutique scenes on the East Coast.” The easily walkable mile-long street is home to more than 160 independent boutiques. If you're looking for a unique pair of shoes, an amazing outfit, or a special gift, you're sure to find it on King Street. In addition to shops selling the hottest fashions and latest trends, King Street is also the place to go for the finest antiques in Alexandria, as well as some of the city's top restaurants. more Old Town Farmer's Market The Old Town Farmer's Market isn't just known for great produce; it's also the oldest continuously-run farmer's market in the United States. George Washington even sent the bounty of his Mount Vernon farm to be sold at the Old Town Farmer's market. Today, visitors will find fruits, vegetables, meat, artisan cheeses, bread, pastries, and fresh pasta. Market vendors also sell flowers, potted plants, handmade jewelry, soap, and art. While perusing the selection of wares, shoppers can enjoy live music from local favorites. Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum Before the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary was turned into a museum, it operated as an actual pharmacy until 1933. Opened in 1792 by the young Quaker pharmacist, Edward Stabler, its many clients included George and Martha Washington. Today it houses a collection of more than 15,000 objects including herbal botanicals, hand-blown glass, and medical equipment. Visitors to the museum can also view journals, prescription pads, formula books, ledgers, orders, and invoices. Torpedo Factory Art Center Located on the scenic Potomac River waterfront, the Torpedo Factory Art Center has been recognized as one of the top destinations for art lovers in the country. The three-story building, once a former naval munitions plant that manufactured torpedoes during World War II, now houses 82 art studios and seven galleries. Visitors can view and purchase a variety of paintings, sculpture, and handicrafts, as well as grab a bite to eat and a glass of wine at the center's cafe. The Spite House Whether you're an Instagrammer or a history buff, you have to pay a visit to the Spite House. At 7 feet wide, it's the skinniest house in the United States. It's called the Spite House because Alexandrian John Hollensbury built it in 1830 to keep loiterers and wagon traffic from passing through the alley adjacent to his residence. The house is located in a beautiful section of Old Town lined with historic red brick sidewalks, and it's surrounded by several other photo-worthy homes constructed centuries ago. These are just some of the top attractions in Old Town Alexandria. Consider planning a visit so you can see for yourself what makes this neighborhood so special. Image via Flickr by Ken Lund. Used with permission via CC BY SA 2.0 / cropped from original

If you're in the market for a new car and you're looking for something that's powerful, sporty, and fun, the Challenger SRT Hellcat and the Challenger SRT Demon are both great choices. Both cars combine style and performance with the safety and reliability that Dodge vehicles are known for. Let's compare their features. Click here for the Battle of the Titans: the Dodge Demon vs. the Dodge Challenger Hellcat (2022) Exterior While both cars have stunning exteriors, the Demon is 3.5 inches wider than the Hellcat. Round headlights, a wide rectangular-shaped hood, and a low, flat roof are some of the highlights of the Hellcat's exterior design. The Demon's exterior is enhanced by flares and wide wheels. No matter which model you choose, you're sure to get noticed when driving the Demon or the Hellcat. more Interior The interiors of the Demon and the Hellcat are where you'll find some major differences. The Hellcat can comfortably seat up to five people, while the Demon has no front passenger seat and no rear passenger seats. This lack of seating allows you to customize the Demon for maximum on-road precision and drag racing performance. Passenger seats can be added, which will make the Demon heavier. That should cause no issue if you intend to use the Demon for conventional driving. Power When it comes to a powerful ride, both the Hellcat and the Demon deliver. The Hellcat comes equipped with a Supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI SRT V-8 engine capable of putting out 717 horsepower. While the Demon is powered by the same type of engine, it also comes equipped with a 2.7-liter supercharger that allows it to produce 840 horsepower. The Hellcat can go from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.4 seconds, while the Demon takes 2.3 seconds to get there. When it comes to quarter-mile speed, the Hellcat's is 10.9 seconds and the Demon's is 9.65 seconds. Performance Whether you take the wheel of the Hellcat or the Demon, you're guaranteed a ride that's smooth and swift. While both cars come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Hellcat is also available with a six-speed manual transmission. Unique air-catcher headlamps feed cold air into the Hellcat's airbox in order to cool the engine. The Demon is the first-ever factory-production car to come equipped with Transbrake, which allows drivers to increase engine speed up to 2,350 rpm without overpowering the brakes. Technology As for technology, the Hellcat comes standard with a 7-inch touch screen and the UConnect system. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite music, make calls, and send texts hands-free. A premium Harmon Kardon audio system is also available in the Hellcat. The Demon comes equipped with a real-time display showing you horsepower and torque stats. A data-recording feature helps you keep track of any performance changes that may be caused by the weather or new parts. These are just some of the exciting features of the Challenger SRT Hellcat and the Challenger SRT Demon. Consider taking a test drive to see which one best fits your style and driving needs. Image via Flickr by GabboT. Used with permission via CC BY - SA 2.0 / cropped from original

If you're a music lover who lives in or is visiting Alexandria, Virginia, you're in luck. The town is known for its live music venues featuring a wide variety of genres. Let take a look at some of the top music spots and what they have to offer. O'Shaughnessy's O'Shaughnessy's, located in the Old Town neighborhood, is a charming bar featuring live music nightly, Monday through Saturday. The bar also features pool tables and an impressive jukebox selection. If you're in the mood to perform, check out O'Shaughnessy's open mic night. Show off your smarts on Tuesday trivia night. Be sure to grab some apps and a delicious sandwich at the bar's Stage Door Deli. more Murphy's Grand Irish Pub Murphy's Grand Irish Pub is a cozy and classic pub where you can catch live shows from Irish acoustic musicians, bluegrass bands, rock bands, cover bands, and so much more. The pub also hosts a trivia night where participants can win awesome prizes, and it's a great place to hang out with friends and watch the big game. Murphy's menu features an extensive selection of craft beers and cocktails. The pub also serves up soup, salads, sandwiches, and Irish classics like shepherd's pie, fish & chips, and corned beef & cabbage. If you're celebrating a birthday or anniversary, Murphy's private room is the perfect venue. Port City Brewing Company On Friday and Saturday nights, craft-beer lovers can catch live music and a rotating selection of food trucks at the historic Port City Brewing Company. The oldest packaging brewery in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, this Alexandria treasure also hosts tastings, tours, and trivia nights. If you're feeling flexible, you can even participate in beer yoga. The Birchmere Named the Best Live Music Venue of 2018 by Northern Virginia Magazine, The Birchmere has hosted such legendary performers as Mary Chapin Carpenter, Lyle Lovett, and Dave Matthews in an intimate setting that allows audience members to get up close to their favorite artists. The Birchmere features a full kitchen so you and your friends can make an evening of it with dinner and a show. Dinner seating is available, while the flex stage area is standing room only, giving you the opportunity to dance the night away. The Carlyle Club Featuring classic jazz, swing, and orchestra bands in an atmosphere straight out of "The Great Gatsby," The Carlyle Club is the perfect music venue for date night. While enjoying the show, you and your date can imbibe classic cocktails from the club's bar menu and share a delicious appetizer. In addition to hosting beautiful music, the romantic Carlyle Club has also become a popular venue for weddings. No matter what occasion you're celebrating, you're sure to have an unforgettable evening. These are just some of the top music venues in the Alexandria area. As you can see, there's something for everyone. No matter which one you visit, you're sure to have a great time. Image via Flickr by joelogon. Used with permission via CC BY- SA 2.0 / cropped from original

Planning a trip to Alexandria, Virginia? Picking the perfect hotel is half of the battle, and choosing one with a swimming pool is never a bad decision. Below are four hotels in the Alexandria area that have great swimming options. The Alexandrian The Alexandrian is a beautiful hotel located only a few steps away from some fantastic museums. The swimming pool is indoor and heated, so you never have to worry about visiting during a chilly month. The surrounding area has dining options for everyone, from upscale and fresh for those looking for a fancier and healthier night out, to fast food for days when you just need something quick. Even if you decide to grab something and bring it back to the hotel, you can always take advantage of the Alexandrian's evening wine receptions for adults. more The rooms are spacious and come equipped with a mini-fridge and iPod docking station. If you're looking to book a suite, you won't be disappointed. Depending on which suite you choose, you could have a large soaking tub, a courtyard balcony, or a full kitchen and living room. Hilton Alexandria Mark Center The Hilton Alexandria Mark Center is conveniently located in Alexandria's West End, within four miles of the Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon City Mall. The hotel boasts not one, but two swimming pools, one indoor and the other outdoor. The Finn and Porter Restaurant is a favorite of guests and can be found in the Hilton Alexandria, along with a bar and cafe. Room service is also available during limited hours. If you are traveling with a pet, keep in mind that they are welcome; however, they can not exceed 75 pounds. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Alexandria Fort Belvoir The TownePlace Suites by Marriott is a great choice if you're traveling with your family. Aside from having a pristine indoor pool, the hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, a complimentary hot/cold breakfast, and free parking, so you'll be able to save a lot of money with those amenities. The TownePlace allows pets, as well, and even has cribs and children's beds available upon request. Some rooms have a full-sized refrigerator and kitchens stocked with cookware, so if those are important to you, be sure to request them. Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Belvoir Alexandria South The final hotel on our list is another fantastic choice for families. Complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi and parking are included in the amenities, and the rooms' sofas have the ability to pull out into beds. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy that the hotel is located a short drive from Hilltop Golf Club, TopGolf Alexandria, and Greendale Golf Course. Alexandria has a wide selection of hotels, so it's not always easy to narrow down your choices, but you won't be disappointed by any of these hotels. By booking one with a swimming pool, you ensure that you'll always have a fun activity available. Start planning your trip today! OI Tukai - Swimming Pool via Flickr by John Hickey-Fry. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The 2019 Dodge Durango is a family-friendly vehicle with tons of versatility, but that's not what makes it stand out from the droves of SUV competitors. The reason it's a cut above the rest is its bad boy persona. Visually stunning, packed with features, and touting one of the top engines in the SUV market, the 2019 Durango is more than just a rugged automobile. It's a lifestyle. If you're searching for more than just a ho-hum crossover or SUV, the Durango delivers on all fronts. Here's a glance at what makes the Durango stand out from the crowd this year. more Ten Color Options The color of your vehicle is an extension of your personality, so there's no need to hold back when choosing your exterior paint job. That's why the 2019 Dodge Durango comes in 10 vibrant hues. Choose from Billet, Octane Red, Reactor Blue, F8 Green, Destroyer Grey, Granite, DB Black, Vice White, White Knuckle, or Redline Red to make a statement every time you get behind the wheel. Impressive Exterior Features The 2019 Dodge Durango comes with plenty of exterior amenities that make spectators do a double take. Standard specs include fog lamps, halogen headlamps, LED lighting, and an aggressive grille with the legendary Dodge split-crosshair emblem. Upper trim levels tack on automatic high beams, a chrome-tipped exhaust, a power liftgate, and 20-inch rims that other SUVs can't touch. Delivers Pure Power For the 2019 model year, the Dodge Durango employs three engine options. A 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 dishes out ample power, pumping out 295 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. Next up is a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 that's good for 360 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque for a spirited drive. However, it's the Durango SRT's 6.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine that steals the show. With 475 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, it's the most powerful SUV ever to hit the Dodge showroom floor. All three engines pair with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Two-wheel drive is optional, but all-wheel drive adds more grip, handling, and agility. Comfort, Convenience, and Tech Features The inside of the 2019 Durango is where this beast shines even more. An 8.4-inch touch screen adorns the center of the dashboard, allowing you to browse music, apps, and other features via the Uconnect infotainment system. Other standard and available options include leather seating, Bluetooth, a second-row media center, and heated and ventilated seating. All About That Space If cargo and passenger space is high on your priority list, you can't beat the 2019 Durango. With a total cargo area of 84.5 cubic feet, you'll be able to cram in all your gear and supplies for a camping trip or a DIY project. Third-row seating accommodates up to seven passengers if you're playing chauffeur. Advanced Safety Features The Durango is designed to keep you safe with some of the best safety amenities available. Standout features include a tire pressure monitoring system, adaptive cruise control, electronic stability control, and blind spot monitoring. With pure performance and a style that's tantamount to a work of art, the 2019 Dodge Durango excels where other SUVs fall behind. It's the type of vehicle that exudes confidence and style on behalf of the driver. Just make sure that driver is you. Image used with permission via Dodge.com / cropped from original

Since 2009, the Ram 1500 has been one of the most popular, capable, and rugged trucks on American roads. Fans of the brand could brag that nothing needed changing over the past year and even critics would agree. However, the all-new 2019 Ram 1500 sets a benchmark in its fifth generation. Loaded with interior comfort, tech features, new looks, and raw power, the Ram 1500 builds upon its past to create a "super truck." With all its features and amenities, the 2019 Ram 1500 has more to love than ever. Improved Capability Thanks to the addition of the new eTorque system and the fine-tuning of its two available engines, the 2019 Ram 1500 has the power to make its competitors envious. The standard engine is a brawny 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 that's good for 305 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. With this at the helm, you can pull up to 7,730 pounds, providing ample power for work or leisure. more Upper trims sport a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 that dishes out 395 horsepower and up to 410 pound-feet of torque. This increases its towing capacity to a best-in-class 12,750 pounds, giving the Ram 1500 the upper hand in the segment. While these powerful numbers are striking, one of the most interesting features of the 2019 Ram 1500 is its eTorque technology. The eTorque system uses a 48-volt battery pack to function as both an alternator and hybrid system. It helps charge the car battery while adding a boost to the gasoline-powered engine. Surprisingly, this technically makes the Ram 1500 a hybrid vehicle while adding a ton of torque at low speeds (130 pound-feet of torque on the HEMI and 90 pound-feet of torque on the Pentastar). For towing, crawling, and off-roading, eTorque is a welcome feature. Sleek Styling To compete with the big boys of the American pickup industry, a truck needs more than just power. It needs eye-catching style. In 2019, the Ram 1500 achieves this with a mix of form and function. A sculpted body is sure to turn heads courtesy of standard features such as an aggressive grille, a dual exhaust, a sculpted hood, and sleek LED headlights. Depending on the trim, you get a set of 18- to 22- inch wheels and your choice of up to 11 striking exterior paint colors. All-New Tech Features Another amazing update to the 2019 Ram 1500 is the influx of high-tech features. With arguably the longest list of tech amenities in the pickup sector, the Ram 1500 feels as much like a truck as it does a luxury vehicle. At the center of the upgrades is a class-exclusive 12-inch touch screen that allows you to navigate your favorite apps and music through the Uconnect infotainment system. Some of the other top features include Apple CarPlay, Sirius XM satellite radio, a 19-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and a navigation system. The Ram 1500 is already a household name, but with several upgraded amenities, hot looks, and more capability than ever, the 2019 edition has a lot to love. 2019 Ram 1500 with ICI Stainless Rocker Panel Kit via Flickr by truckhardware. Used with permission via CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from original

On the Potomac River waterfront sits the quaint city of Alexandria, located a mere 20 minutes from Washington D.C. This charming and affordable destination is perfect to explore or to use as a starting point to visit surrounding areas. It's a great place for families along with loads of fun attractions. Kids activities abound from museums and historic sites to bike rides and boat tours. There are many free things to do as well. Here are some of the kid-friendly attractions for your family to discover. Our Special Harbor This free water park has an amazing splash pad for the kids, in addition to dumping buckets, spray fountains, water guns, misting sunflowers, a lighthouse, and many other water play features. There is a quiet beach area with interactive water tables and gentler bubblers for younger children, while a water maze adds to an energetic atmosphere. Anyone under 12 must wear closed-back water shoes or they will not be allowed into the park. Our Special Harbor, with its Chesapeake Bay themed spray ground, can be found at the Family Recreation Area at Lee District Park. more Kids' Scavenger Hunt A great way to introduce your children to the region's history is through the Alexandria Colonial Tours' Kids' Scavenger Hunt. It's a fun self-guided walking tour with six stops, which takes about 45 minutes, and can be customized to suit your family's needs. Maps and clues can be found at the Christmas Attic on South Union Street for $4. The clues help your children plan their way to the next stop, find necessary information, and fill in the blanks. The hunt is suitable for children aged 7-11. Pirate Ship Cruise The Potomac Boat Company offers a treasure hunt cruise. Your children will have a blast with the pirate speak, treasure chests, water cannons, pirate games, and more. The 40-minute cruise around the Alexandria seaport is on a small covered boat, featuring a costumed captain and his mate as they share historical and geographical facts in conjunction with the pirate theme. It's a memorable excursion for the kids and it provides a lot of interesting information for the parents. Old Town Waterfront Alexandria's Old Town Waterfront provides a relaxed family outing where you can stroll along the waterfront and stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area. Adults will love the old architecture and shops, while the kids will be kept amused by the street performers and artists. Irresistible treats and snacks are found along the boardwalk, which will keep any child happy. Take in the sights and enjoy the atmosphere of this historical city. Alexandria has good reason to be recognized as one of the top five best cities in the U.S., as noted via Condé Nast Traveler's 2018 Readers' Choice Award survey. It has a rich history with a variety of dining, shopping, sight-seeing, and family attractions available. With a little research and planning, your kids will have plenty to do in and around the vicinity. King Street Trolley - Old Town Alexandria VA via Flickr by m01229. Used with permissions via CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

The arrival of spring marks the beginning of the festival season here in Alexandria. No matter your interest, there are a variety of festivals in the area that are well worth attending. Let's discuss a few and what they have to offer. Alexandria St. Patrick's Day Parade For 38 years, Alexandrians have been invited to don their best green apparel and flock to King Street in Old Town for the St. Patrick's Day Parade put on by The Ballyshaners, an organization dedicated to promoting and preserving Irish Heritage. The parade features Irish pipe bands, Irish dancers, the Notre Dame Alumni Parade, and a variety of cars and floats. more Parade attendees are encouraged to get to Old Town early to see the dog show on Market Square. The show, benefiting the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria, features more than 30 costumed dogs competing in a variety of costumes. After the show, the canine competitors kick off the St. Patrick's Day Parade. The dog show starts at 11:00 a.m. and the parade starts at 12:30 p.m. Both events take place on the first Saturday of March. Cherry Blossom Festival Hop aboard the Wharf Water Taxi for a 25-minute cruise to Washington, D.C., for the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, held from March 20 through April 13. The festival celebrates the short period of time in which the famous trees are in bloom while promoting international friendship. Highlights of the festival include the Blossom Kite Festival, featuring kite battles and trick competitions, Petalpalooza, which is capped off by a stunning fireworks display, and the Festival Parade featuring performers, marching bands, giant balloons, and floats. There are also activity tents, food tents, and a performance stage. Wharf Water Taxi departures start at 9:45 a.m. on weekdays and 11:45 a.m. on weekends. The taxi departs from the Old Town Wharf and docks near the festival's Tidal Basin Welcome Center. Civil War Women's Day March isn't just a great month for festivals, but it's also Women's History Month. To celebrate, the Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site will present Civil War Women's Day on March 23. Costumed re-enactors will examine women's contributions during the Civil War period, including the roles women played on the home front, on the battlefield, and in the workforce. Soldiers aid societies and relief efforts are also featured. Kids can participate in arts and crafts. 2019 Woodlawn Needlework Show & Sale Woodlawn Estate, constructed in 1805, was the first family home of Eleanor “Nelly” Custis, one of America's most renowned needleworkers. Now it serves as the home to the Woodlawn Needlework Show, celebrating its 56th year of maintaining the tradition of needle arts and promoting new artists. Works from a diverse community of artists will be on display and for sale. During the show, held from March 1 through March 31, the Woodlawn home will be open for tours. These are just some of the fun spring festivals taking place in the Alexandria area. Whichever ones you choose to attend, stay safe and have fun! Image via Flickr by Tim Evanson / Under use by CC BY-SA 2.0