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Even though you may think you know Allentown, Pennsylvania, there may be some interesting facts that have escaped your attention. From the city's history and culture, you can learn some amazing tidbits that, if nothing else, will impress your friends when you drop the information in conversation at the next social gathering. Check out these three interesting facts about Allentown. 1. It Once Hid the Liberty Bell In July, 1776, some early patriots rang what became known as the Liberty Bell to mark the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence. Though it's now at the Liberty Bell Center in Philadelphia, the famous bell once spent time in Allentown. In 1777, a group of people hid the bell in the basement of an Allentown church to prevent the British soldiers from finding it. To this day, Zion's Reformed United Church of Christ is known as "The Liberty Bell Church" and hosts a historical museum commemorating the role it played in protecting the bell. 2. The Pennsylvania Dutch Aren't Dutch Allentown is home to people known as the Pennsylvania Dutch. Known for their plain clothing and unwillingness to embrace modern conveniences like cars and electricity, the Pennsylvania Dutch aren't from Holland. They're Deutsch, meaning they're from Germany. Even though the name is inaccurate, the name Pennsylvania Dutch has stuck. 3. Pop Culture References to Allentown Abound I Love You to Death, The Hangover Part II, and The Wrestler are three films that reference Allentown. Billy Joel's song "Allentown" and Frank Sinatra's "The Train" mention the city. These are just a sample of the interesting facts about this city in eastern Pennsylvania. Image via Flickr by chrisinphilly5448

When it comes to family vehicles, it's tough to find a stronger contender than the 2017 Toyota Sienna. Outfitted with a more powerful engine than in previous years, this minivan has plenty of swagger for long road trips. Choose between seven- and eight-passenger models to accommodate your brood. To find out more about the Sienna, check out this list of its three most family-friendly features. 1. Available All-Wheel Drive If you live in an area that experiences winter precipitation, you'll love the 2017 Toyota Sienna's available all-wheel drive. On snowy days when you have to get to work or take the kids to school, the all-wheel drive gives you a fighting chance of arriving safely and on time. The Sienna is the only minivan on the market that offers all-wheel drive. 2. A Kid-Friendly Design In a world that primarily caters to adults, the 2017 Toyota Sienna takes children into consideration with its design. A low step-in height makes it easy for kids to enter and exit the vehicle, while a spacious cabin enables children to feel comfortable on extended journeys. On higher trims, you get a rear-seat entertainment system that plays Blu-ray discs and DVDs, virtually eliminating the "are we there yet?" question. 3. An Array of Safety Features Any family vehicle needs to be safe. That's why the 2017 Sienna has multiple air bags and a rearview camera. The higher trims come with high-tech features such as parking sensors, blind-spot alerts, and rear cross-traffic monitoring. With its all-wheel drive, safety equipment, and kid-friendly design, it's no wonder so many families are excited to test drive the 2017 Toyota Sienna. https://www.flickr.com/photos/neubie/484076985/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Neubie

One of the best ways to enjoy winter in Pennsylvania is to hit the slopes. If you live in Allentown, there are several excellent ski resorts nearby where you can hone your downhill or cross country skills. Check out these two awesome ski areas near Allentown. 1. Bear Creek Mountain Resort Less than 10 miles south of Allentown, Bear Creek Mountain Resort in Macungie, Pennsylvania offers family-friendly winter fun. Whether you want to ski or go snowboarding, Bear Creek has 21 trails with terrain to accommodate all skill levels. At the on-site snow sports school, people of all ages can learn the basics of skiing and snowboarding. There are also private lessons for advanced skiers and snowboarders. For those who may not want to ski, there's snow tubing, a fun and thrilling way to zip down snow-covered hills. If you want to go for a weekend trip, Bear Creek has comfortable accommodations. In addition to a lodge, the resort has a spa, two restaurants, and a hotel. 2. Blue Mountain Resort Located in Palmerton 18 miles north of Allentown, Blue Mountain Resort is in Palmerton, Pennsylvania. What sets Blue Mountain apart is its vertical drop. At 1,082 feet, it's the highest in the state. By the numbers, Blue Mountain has 21 tubing lanes, 39 ski trails, 16 lifts, and six terrain parks. There's no shortage of space, making this a great place to visit anytime during the winter. Between Bear Creek and Blue Mountain, residents of Allentown, Pennsylvania, have two great places where they can ski or enjoy other winter activities. Image via Flickr by Rhys A.

There are a number of maintenance services that can help extend the life of your vehicle. One of these important tasks is having regular tire service, which includes rotation and balance. At Bennett Toyota, our technicians specialize in tire service, and we think it should be your first choice for getting this crucial service done. It's Extensive When you bring your vehicle to Bennett Toyota, the technician will start by inspecting the condition of your tires and looking for potential problems, such as signs of damage, holes or cracks in the rubber, and uneven wear. If there are any issues, the technician will talk to you about repair or replacement options. If the tires are in good shape, the next step is rotating and balancing, as needed. Full-Service Tire Shop If your tires are excessively worn or damaged beyond repair, it may be time to buy a new set. You should always replace at least two at a time to prevent problems with the alignment or axles. At Bennett Toyota, we can often provide a better warranty than other tire shops, and we carry a wide selection of options. Before you buy, we will talk to you about which tires will be the best fit for your car. Routine Maintenance You should have your tires rotated and balanced at least once every 4,000-6,000 miles. Naturally, Bennett Toyota will be happy to perform this and other routine maintenance on your tires. With regular service from Bennett Toyota, you can protect your tires and keep them in good shape. Image via Flickr by Kobie M-C Photography

When you're shopping for a pre-owned vehicle, you may worry about whether the dealership or private seller is being honest about the condition of the car. Some sellers are eager to get rid of their vehicles, so they're less than forthcoming. But when you shop through the Toyota Certified Program, you can feel confident about your purchase. What Makes a Car Certified? When a Toyota model is certified through this program, it has undergone a thorough inspection to ensure that it's in excellent condition. Part of the process in getting a car certified also includes reconditioning all systems and components to meet Toyota's exacting standards, and factory-trained technicians perform this service. You'll get a complimentary CARFAX vehicle history report. The car also qualifies for an extended warranty, providing peace of mind to buyers. What Is a 160-Point Inspection? Every vehicle sold under the Toyota Certified Program has undergone a 160-point quality assurance inspection. This inspection includes a review of systems to make sure all meet Toyota standards, including audio and alarm systems, interior and exterior condition and appearance, tires and suspension systems, and much more. What's Included in the Warranty? A Toyota Certified Vehicle also comes with a 12-month/12,000 mile comprehensive warranty and a 7-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty. For the first year of ownership, you'll receive coverage for roadside assistance, so if an emergency happens when you're on the road, you can call for help no matter where you are. More than 1,400 Toyota dealerships across the country honor the warranty on certified cars. A car from the Toyota Certified Program offers many benefits that a vehicle purchased through a private seller just can't match. Image via Flickr by Gonmi

When you're shopping for a new car, you might feel confused by the options available in the different trim levels. This guide will break down the four trim levels available in the 2017 Toyota Prius to help you know which option is best for you. Two and Two Eco The Prius Two is the base model and includes 15-inch alloy wheels, LED automatic headlights, taillights, and running lights, automatic climate control, cloth upholstery, two 4.2-inch driver information screens and a 6.1-inch touch screen display, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth connectivity and both a USB port and auxiliary jack. Features on the Two Eco include ultra-low-rolling resistance tires, a lighter battery, and an inflation kit instead of a rear spare tire, helping to improve fuel efficiency. Three and Three Touring The mid-level Three has imitation leather on the armrests and steering wheel, a wireless charging pad, a larger 7-inch touch screen display with the Entune infotainment system, and navigation. With the Three Touring, you get larger 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, imitation leather upholstery, and the Toyota Safety Sense package, which adds lane departure warning and intervention, adaptive cruise control, and a pre-collision warning system. Four and Four Touring The Prius Four has additional safety features like blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, along with heated front seats, and seatback storage pockets. With the Four Touring, you'll find the same added features as the Three Touring, along with the extras on the Four. With so many different options available to buyers, it's easy to find a 2017 Toyota Prius that will be perfect for you and your family. Image via Flickr by hirotomo

When the seasons change, this shift can have an effect on more than just your allergies. As temperatures change, certain parts of your vehicle can also suffer some of the effects, including your battery. Why Check it Often? It's always frustrating to try to turn on your car's ignition when you're out and about, only to find that the engine won't turn over. A dead battery is a common culprit when your car won't start, but checking it frequently can limit how often this happens. When the charge is low, drive around and let it run for a bit to charge it before you park. At Bennett Toyota, our technicians can also check the condition of your battery and offer recommendations for extending its life. Corrosion and Connection Problems Another issue that can come up when the weather changes is corrosion, which happens most frequently in hot weather. High temperatures speed up the process of corrosion, so check the connections to make sure you don't have this issue. If you do, clean the connectors with a stiff wire brush. Might Need Replacement If your battery is more than a couple years old, it most likely won't be able to withstand the changing temps as the seasons shift. Replacing a car battery isn't too expensive, so shell out the $150-$200 to get a new one. This could help you avoid bigger problems down the road. The battery is an important component in your car, so having one that works and can hold a full charge is important for safety. Bring your vehicle into Bennett Toyota to get your battery checked out. Image via Flickr by JeepersMedia

During the fall in the Allentown, Pennsylvania area, there are a number of activities that take place throughout the season. Many are Halloween-themed, and they'll help you and your family get into the spirit of this spooky holiday. Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom: The Great Pumpkin Fest "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" is celebrating its 50 th anniversary this year, so local Allentown residents are celebrating with the ultimate Peanuts-themed fall festival. It started in mid-September and will run through October 30 on Saturdays and Sundays. Festivities start at 11 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. It's perfect for younger kids since the activities aren't scary; they include things like pumpkin painting, a petting zoo, mask making, live shows, and interactive entertainment. Jack-o-Lantern Lane Held at the Da Vinci Science Center, this spectacular display showcases 50 different hand-carved Jack-o-Lanterns, each made by pumpkin artist Ian Fetterman. You can also walk through a not-too-scary forest, finishing the tour with a visit to the witch's magical candy house. In true science fashion, the center also allows visitors to perform experiments on their favorite Halloween treats and learn how dry ice works in a cool cauldron. The event runs through November 6 and is open daily. Allentown Halloween Parade This festive event is a great activity for the whole family, and it's a long-standing tradition in Allentown. Bring a comfy chair and find a spot to spectate at the parade route's start, which is at 17 th and Chew. It will turn east on Hamilton and finish on 9 th Street. Enjoy the fall weather at these unique and family-friendly fall events in Allentown. Image via Flickr by Lehigh Valley, PA

This weekend, why not make a change from the ordinary and head out to one of these locations for a fun day trip from Allentown? Each spot has its own unique attractions and things to see. Hawk Mountain Hawk Mountain is 30 miles west of Allentown, but when you get there, you'll feel like you're in a completely different area. Hawks are known to fly over the mountain frequently, as the name suggests, and there are hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the valleys below. New York City Allentown is about an hour and a half from New York City, so you can spend the day there and head home that evening if you don't want to stay the night. If you've been to the City before, skip the typical tourist attractions and spend a few hours exploring like a local. Sunset Park in Brooklyn gives an impressive view of the skyline, and you can satisfy your sweet tooth at the local favorite Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop, where you can get a giant red velvet doughnut and a great cup of coffee. Morristown, New Jersey If you're not in the mood for the bustling vibe of NYC, consider a visit to Morristown, New Jersey. It's home to quaint and classic neighborhoods with cool architecture, along with a downtown area where you can shop and dine. If you're there when a show is playing at the Mayo Performing Arts Center, grab tickets and enjoy live entertainment at a historic theater. Instead of staying home this weekend, take advantage of your proximity to these fun areas by taking a day trip. Image via Flickr by ^ Missi ^

The BMW 2 Series is an uncompromising, two-door luxury performance car replete with the latest technology. The model's impressive driving dynamics coupled with a long list of available options makes it a compelling contender in its niche. In 228i form, the 2 Series is a nimble roadster, poised, balanced, and ready to bring a smile to your face every time the road turns twisty. The M235i variant takes the BMW recipe for success a step further, shoehorning BMW's stout 3.0-liter V6 under its shapely hood and turning the 2 Series into a potent sports car. Attractive Exterior The 2 Series, in either of its trim levels and top configurations, is a very attractive car. Despite its compact size, it has a big presence, with a broad wheelbase and muscular, flowing lines. In 228i form, it rolls on 17-inch alloys and fog lights, while the M235i boasts 18-inch wheels, performance tires, and xenon headlights. Potent Engine Options The 2 Series comes standard with a stout turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes a solid 24 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque. Opt for the M235i and the 3.0-liter V6 to have 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, allowing it to achieve 60 miles an hour in a brief 4.5 seconds. Safety and Technology ABS, traction and stability controls, and airbags are standard. Options include a rear view camera, front collision mitigations, and lane departure warnings. Available options, such as a convertible top, xDrive all-wheel drive, and performance upgrades allow owners to tune their 2 Series to their tastes. Image via Flickr by smoothgroover22

When you read the specs on a new car, you've probably noticed that one of the items listed is the number of cylinders in the engine. But what do those numbers really mean? Cylinder Function The cylinder in an engine is the main working component. Cylinders operate by firing the spark plugs in a gasoline-powered engine or creating the fuel injection within a diesel-powered unit. The number of cylinders is the number of chambers that are working to power the engine. The most common numbers of cylinders are four, six, and eight, although you may see some odd numbers in hybrid vehicles or other types of engines. Cylinder Effect on Performance When a cylinder is operating, the piston within it is pumping oil into the crank shaft. When you have additional cylinders within your car engine, more pistons are at work to move more oil through the engine. The result is that your engine won't have to work as hard to get to higher speeds or carry heavier loads. If you're driving a truck or SUV, the number of cylinders will also help determine how much weight you can tow with it. Cylinders and Reliability You may wonder if a vehicle with a four-cylinder engine will be less reliable than a V6 or V8. But the number of cylinders within your engine doesn't really play a role in the durability or reliability of your car, assuming that you follow manufacturer recommendations for maintenance and avoid towing or hauling loads that are heavier than the engine can handle. Now that you know what the cylinders do within an engine, you can check out auto reviews and better understand what the figures actually mean. Image via Flickr by Henrique Vicente

Browse through a car review website, and you'll see a lot of different numbers. Between the number of cylinders in the engine, the estimated number of miles per gallon the car can get, and the liters of the engine, it's easy to get confused about what they all mean. If you're wondering what the liters mean in an engine specification, read on to find out. Engine Displacement An engine measurement is done by displacement, or the total volume of all the cylinders that it contains. Without getting too deep into equations, you can review an example. A four-cylinder engine in which each cylinder measures 569 cc produces a total displacement of 2276 cc. Auto manufacturers round the number to make it easier to read and understand, so this engine would be a 2.3-liter. Differences in Numbers When the number of liters is higher, the engine tends to be able to produce more power and torque. The drawback to a higher-liter engine is that it will burn more fuel because it has more cylinders operating to pump fuel through the components. So if you're looking for a fuel efficiency vehicle, stick with one with an engine that has a lower number of liters. Factoring in Turbochargers With a turbocharger, an engine can operate similarly to one with a higher number of cylinders or liters without using as much fuel. This device helps to boost the engine power in a more gentle and slow manner. Some manufacturers spell out the word "turbocharged" in the vehicle's specs, while others simply add a T after the number of liters, such as 2.0T. Various numbers can make a car review confusing, but now you know what the liters actually mean. Image via Flickr by ducktail964