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Windshield wipers are a critical safety feature of your car, and they are often neglected. If you don't take care of your wipers, they might not work correctly when you need them. There is nothing worse than getting caught in a sudden downpour with wipers that won't keep your windshield clean. Check out these helpful tips for taking care of your windshield wipers, so they last longer and work better. more Keep the Windshield Clean One way you can keep your wipers in good condition is by keeping the windshield clean. If the blades have to move over lots of grit and grime, they will wear down faster. A good way to make sure you have a clean windshield is to clean it every time you get gas. Use the washer fluid and squeegee that the gas station keeps right at the pumps and give it a good once over while the tank fills up. Clean the Wiper Blades You also want to make sure there is no dirt or grit on the rubber blades. Keep them clean by using a rubber squeegee or damp cloth to remove any loose dirt. Make sure you do this frequently, so it doesn't build up and stick to the rubber. If you wait too long, it could damage the blade when you wipe it down. Don't Use Wipers on a Dry Windshield Wiper blades are meant to be used on wet glass. If you turn them on when the windshield is dry, it causes a lot of friction and drag than can damage the rubber and wear them down. If you need to clear pollen or other debris from your windshield, either get out and wipe it down with a cloth or spray the windshield wiper fluid first, so the glass is wet before the wipers pass over. Also, don't use the wipers to clean dirt from the windshield. If you try to do this, it can damage them. Keep Them Out of the Sun The hot rays of the sun cause damage to the rubber on the blades. If you can park in an area where the car is in the shade, it will help to make the wipers last longer. You can also use a car cover if you have one to keep them out of the sun. Replace the Blades Regularly Wiper blades have a limited life span. You should replace them every six months to ensure that you have a good wiper blade when you need it. Once the rubber starts to crack or get brittle, it won't make good contact with the windshield, and you'll get spots where the water won't clear. This can be dangerous if you have to drive during a storm. If you put the wipers through a lot of wear and tear, they might need replacing more often. Inspect your windshield wipers regularly to make sure they are in good shape, clean or replace them as needed, and follow these tips to keep you safe and your windshield clean and clear while you're on the road. Photo by Matheus Bertelli from Pexels

There is nothing like taking a big bite of a perfectly cooked slice of pizza dripping with sauce and cheese and topped with your favorite extras. In Palm Coast, Florida, many different pizza places serve up their own special recipes. Here are some of the top spots for pizza if you are in the area. more 1. Joe's New York Pizza & Pasta Joe's New York Pizza & Pasta serves traditional New York-style pies along with pasta, calzones, and other Italian favorites. The garlic knots at Joe's are a must, and the pizza is just like what you would get in New York City. The sauce is on the sweet side, and you can build your own pizza or choose from one of the combinations on the menu. If you prefer a thicker crust, there is also a Sicilian pizza on the menu, or you can skip the pizza and get delicious baked pasta. 2. Mezzaluna Pizzeria at the European Village Mezzaluna Pizzeria has amazing pizza made with the best dough. You can build your own by choosing your favorite toppings or get one of the specialty pies. Make sure to try the white pie made with ricotta and mozzarella instead of red sauce, as well as the Margherita made with marinara sauce, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil. For a unique take on pizza, the chicken Marsala has sauteed chicken in Marsala sauce along with mushrooms and mozzarella cheeset. Another favorite is the broccoli rabe and sausage pizza. Mezzaluna also has stuffed pizza with options including chicken Parmesan, eggplant Parmesan, meatball Parmesan, and baked ziti. 3. Giuseppe's Giuseppe's on South Old Dixie Highway in Bunnell, Florida, serves New York-style pizza and Sicilian-style pizza made with their homemade dough. Everything is always made fresh to order whether you want a specialty pizza or gourmet pasta dish. Choose from a variety of calzones, stromboli, and both specialty and gourmet pizzas. The Margherita pizza is always a good choice and comes with sauce, mozzarella, pecorino Romano, fresh tomatoes, fresh basil, and fresh garlic with olive oil. The Bianca has three different cheeses and no red sauce, while the Mediterranean comes with artichoke hearts, green olives, spinach, mushrooms, and green peppers along with onions, tomatoes, feta cheese, and pecorino Romano mozzarella, and fresh garlic. 4. Manny's Pizza The delicious pizza at Manny's is some of the best in Palm Coast. Make sure to start with the garlic bread, but save room because the pizzas are very large. It comes with a nice thin, crunchy crust and just the right amount of toppings. The Margherita pizza is delicious, and the Greek salad is the perfect side to have with it. This place has a sweet sauce, and if you get your pizza with sausage and onions, all the toppings work together to make the perfect bite. Stop by one of these pizza places in Palm Coast for a cheesy, delicious pie. You can get anything from thin, New York-style pizza to deep dish and Sicilian pizzas, or try a pasta dish or calzone at several of these local restaurants. Photo by Brett Jordan from Pexels

The 2020 Ford Fusion is a stylish, well-equipped sedan offering a refined, comfortable ride and adept handling. It's available in four trim levels, and you can choose from three gas engines as well as hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. Here we'll look at the features of the Fusion trim levels. more Fusion S S trim is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 173 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission. The exterior features include a chrome grille surround, configurable daytime running lights, 16-inch steel wheels, color-keyed door handles and power side mirrors, and LED taillights. Inside, you'll find push-button start, cloth upholstery, 60/40 split folding rear seats, air conditioning, a 4.2-inch configurable driver information display, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a rotary gear shift dial, and two 12-volt power outlets. The Sync infotainment system has a 4.2-inch center screen, Bluetooth, voice command, and four-speaker audio. All Fusion models have Ford Co-Pilot 360 with brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, blind spot monitor, cross-traffic alert, a lane keeping system, automatic high beams, rain-sensing wipers, and SOS post-crash alert. Fusion SE Standard power for the SE is provided by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with auto start-stop technology. It generates 181 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. It adds to the S's features a chrome-finished grille, 17-inch alloy wheels, reverse parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, dual configurable driver information displays, and the Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touch screen, smartphone integration, and six-speaker audio with satellite radio. Opting for the SE All-Wheel-Drive package adds a 2-liter EcoBoost engine delivering 240 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, paddle shifters, and heated power front seats and side mirrors. The SE also has the option of hybrid power featuring a 2-liter engine paired with an electric motor to give a total system output of 188 horsepower via a continuously variable transmission. Fusion SEL The SEL has the 1.5-liter turbo as standard and the option of the hybrid powertrain. Stepping up to this trim gets you intelligent access with remote start, LED headlights and signature lighting, 18-inch wheels, chrome-trimmed door handles, and mirrors with approach lamps, turn signals, and auto-dimming driver's side with memory. The interior has simulated leather upholstery, heated power front seats, driver's seat memory, a leather-bound steering wheel, and a premium 11-speaker sound system. Fusion Titanium The top-of-the-range Titanium features the turbocharged 2-liter engine as standard. In addition to the hybrid option, you can choose a plug-in hybrid engine. Outside, you have a chrome mesh grille, LED fog lights, 19-inch wheels, and a rear decklid spoiler. Inside the luxurious cabin are leather upholstery, heated and cooled front seats, bright scuff plates, ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel with paddle shifters, a power moonroof, a navigation system, and a 12-speaker Sony audio with HD radio. You also get adaptive cruise control with stop and go. To compare all of the superb features of the 2020 Ford Fusion trim levels, head over to Palm Coast Ford today. image via ford.com

If you want to sleep in on the weekend but still go out for good food when you get up, several places in the Palm Coast, Florida, area serve a delicious brunch. From eggs and bacon to Eggs Benedict and more, you can find it all. Many of the restaurants offer outdoor seating, or you can stay inside if the weather is too warm. Here are some of the best brunch spots in Palm Coast. more Green Lion Cafe The Green Lion Cafe sits right on the Palm Harbor golf course, offering views of the greens if you sit on the outdoor deck. The Sunday brunch has all of your favorites from bacon and eggs to waffles, pancakes, and more. There is a chef cooking at the made-to-order omelet station where you can get all your favorites while you wait, and build-your-own bottomless champagne and Bloody Mary bar. If you want to order from the regular menu, you can choose from the breakfast or lunch menus, and the brunch runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Rodie's Place Rodie's Place is a casual cafe that serves breakfast and lunch every day until 3 p.m. The menu includes a variety of omelets served with home fries and toast, along with breakfast sandwiches to get you started. There are also burgers, crab cakes, and more. The owner is likely to stop by your table to say hello and see how everything is. If you get a lunch item, it comes with homemade chips on the side and many of the meats that you'll get are smoked right on site. Metro Diner The Metro Diner is an upscale diner with excellent service and delicious food. Some of the breakfast favorites include fried chicken and waffles, biscuits & sausage gravy, and corned beef hash with poached eggs and toast. You can also get breakfast pie, which comes with layers of eggs, cheese, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and red-skinned potatoes. For a twist on a waffle, the nutty waffle comes filled with almonds, walnuts, pecans, and it's topped with powdered sugar. If you prefer lunch, you can get shrimp and grits, pot roast, and shepherd's pie. The Blue Heron Beach Front Bistro The Blue Heron Beach Front Bistro offers beautiful views to go with your brunch. Stop by to feast on the big crab benedict, the Reuben benedict, and smoked salmon benedict, or you can build your own omelet. The Western wrap has scrambled eggs, baked ham, cheddar cheese, and roasted red bell peppers, and onions all wrapped up in a garlic herb wrap, or try the banana bread French toast for a sweet treat. You can get home fries topped with Louisiana hot sauce and cheddar cheese, along with a delicious Bloody Mary or mimosa. The Blue Heron sits just north of the Flagler Pier on Oceanshore Blvd. in Flagler Beach. Make sure to try one of these Palm Coast area restaurants for your next lazy weekend brunch. Relax in the morning at home before heading out for some sweet and savory breakfast and lunch items. Photo by Just Name from Pexels

Completely redesigned for 2020, the Ford Escape compact SUV now has a sportier look with performance and handling to match. The all-new Escape has the option of a hybrid powertrain and a plug-in hybrid will follow in spring 2020. Available in S, SE, SE Sport Hybrid, SEL, and Titanium trim levels, all with the option of all-wheel drive, there's an Escape to suit you. more Exterior Styling The Escape's new wider, longer, and lower stance and the Mustang-inspired front fascia and grille make it look ready for action and set it apart from other SUVs. Underbody shrouding, sculpted doors, and stylish rear-end are all designed for optimal aerodynamic airflow. A lower beltline enables larger windows and improved visibility. S trim sits on 17-inch steel wheels and offers configurable daytime running lights, LED signature lighting, black trim, power mirrors, a body-colored rear spoiler, and twin chrome tailpipes. SE models add alloy wheels, body-colored door handles and heated mirrors, and chrome trim. The SE Sport Hybrid features unique black trim, while the SEL gets 18-inch wheels, fog lamps, a hands-free power liftgate, and roof rails. Titanium adds LED fog lamps. Interior Design For improved versatility, the stylish interior of the Escape offers 60/40 split-folding rear seats with a unique sliding function that provides either best-in-class rear legroom or increased space for cargo. S models feature cloth seating, six-way driver's seat adjustment, a 4.2-inch multi-information display, tilting and telescoping steering wheel, and a space saving rotary gear shift dial. SE models have push-button start, 10-way power driving seat adjustment, and automatic climate control. The SE Sport Hybrid adds 12.3-inch customizable digital instrumentation and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, while the SEL offers faux leather seating, heated front seats and steering wheel, and driver's seat memory. Titanium trim features dual-zone climate control, and leather seating with power passenger seat. Power and Performance The base engine for the Escape is a lively three-cylinder 1.5-liter turbo that generates 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. Under the hood of the Titanium and an option for the SEL is a powerful and responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is mated to both engines. The SE Sport Hybrid features a four-cylinder 2.5-liter engine paired with two electric motors generating 198 horsepower total output via a continuously variable transmission. Adding the Class 2 Trailer Tow Package gives you a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds with the 1.5-liter turbo which increases to 3,500 pounds with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost. Technology Standard FordPass Connect provides a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices. The Sync 3 multimedia system is offered in al but the S trim and features an 8-inch touch screen, Amazon Alexa and Waze compatibility, and smartphone integration. Ford Co-Pilot 360 offers driver assist features such as blind spot monitoring, cross-traffic warning, lane keep assist, and pre-collision warning with autonomous braking. Titanium trim adds an auto-dimming rearview mirror, active parking assistance, and an optional head-up display. Take a closer look at all of the superb features of the 2020 Ford Escape and compare trims at Palm Coast Ford. image via Ford.com

The 2020 Ford Explorer has been completely redesigned to keep up with all of your adventures. If you're looking for a new SUV that delivers sporty good looks and plenty of impressive features, check out what the all-new Explorer has to offer. more Head-Turning Good Looks When you take a look at the redesigned 2020 Ford Explorer, you'll notice it offers plenty of distinct exterior features that help it stand out on the road. The Explorer comes standard with automatic LED headlights, LED taillights, a power lift gate with a spoiler, rear privacy glass, and power-adjustable and heated side mirrors with LED turn signal indicators. If you're interested in even more style and convenience, the Explorer is also available with LED fog lamps, a hands-free lift gate, power-folding and driver's side auto-dimming side mirrors, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Impressive Power and Performance Thanks to its three impressively powerful engines, the 2020 Explorer is ready for all types of adventures. The SUV comes standard with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine that pumps out 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. If you're interested in a combination of efficiency and power, you can go with the available 3.3-liter V-6 engine and an electric motor that combine to produce 318 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. The other available engine option is the 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 that delivers up to 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Versatile Interior When you're searching for a new Ford that offers a flexible interior space that can help you be prepared for anything, you need to check out the 2020 Explorer. If you keep the second- and third-row seats up, you'll enjoy seating for up to seven people. If you're carrying a combination of passengers and cargo, you'll enjoy the convenience of the 50/50 split-folding third-row bench and 40/20/40 split-folding second-row bench. Or, if you need extra space for cargo, you can fold both rows down to reveal a spacious 87 cubic feet of cargo space. Great Connectivity Technology No matter where your adventures end up taking you, you'll always be able to stay connected thanks to some of the excellent technology features in the Ford Explorer. The SUV offers the easy-to-use SYNC 3 infotainment system that works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to let you access maps, stream music, send texts, make calls, and more. You can also experience all of these impressive connectivity features on the available 10.1-inch touch-screen display. Top Safety Features If you're interested in getting a vehicle that comes with some of the latest safety features, you'll love what you find in the Explorer. The SUV comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot 360, which is a suite of driver-assistive technologies that include a rearview camera, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping system, reverse sensing system, and Blind-Spot Information System. The Explorer is also available with evasive steering assist and hill descent control. Now that you know more about some of the incredible features inside and outside the 2020 Ford Explorer, it's easy to see why you should get behind the wheel of this SUV. image via Ford.com

In its first year back on the market, the Ford Ranger received high marks in the J.D. Power 2019 Initial Quality Study. This study takes 100 vehicles from manufacturers and looks at any problems experienced during the first 90 days of ownership. If you've been thinking about getting a new truck, learn why the Ranger is the ideal option for you. more Sporty Good Looks The Ford Ranger has a sporty body that's designed to help you take on all of your adventures. The truck comes standard with a manual locking tailgate, daytime running lights, automatic headlights, and side mirrors with an integrated spotter mirror. If you decide to go up in trim levels, you'll also enjoy standard features that include a power locking tailgate, heated and power-folding side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators and security approach lamps, and LED headlights, daytime running lights, and fog lamps. Ready for Adventure Not only does the Ford Ranger offer exterior style designed for fun, but it also includes a powerful engine ready to deliver the performance you need. The Ranger comes with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that works with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission to deliver 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. If you want to bring along some extra gear on your adventure, the Ranger can handle that as well. The truck has a maximum payload capacity of 1,860 pounds and a maximum towing capacity of up to 7,500 pounds. Great Safety Features If you're searching for a new Ford that has some of the latest safety features, check out what the Ranger offers thanks to the Ford Co-Pilot 360 technology. The truck comes standard with a rearview camera, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, trailer sway control, curve control, and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control. It's also available with a lane-keeping system, Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, and a forward and reverse sensing system. Comfortable Interior Just because you might take your Ford Ranger out on some off-road adventures, that doesn't mean you have to leave your modern comforts behind. That's because the Ranger offers a stylish and functional interior with plenty of convenient features. The available dual-zone electronic automatic climate control and heated front seats keep you warm even when the temperatures drop. For a soft touch, the Ranger is also available with a leather-trimmed steering wheel and leather-trimmed seats. Impressive Connectivity Technology No matter where your adventures take you, you'll always be able to stay connected and entertained with the infotainment system inside the Ford Ranger. The truck comes standard with a six-speaker audio system, SYNC infotainment system, AppLink, and FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot. If you're interested in even more connectivity features, the Ranger is available with SYNC 3, which includes an 8-inch touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an optional built-in navigation system. When you get behind the wheel of the Ford Ranger, you'll immediately understand why this truck received the highest initial quality award from J.D. Power. image via Ford.com

Located conveniently off of Interstate 95, Palm Coast, Florida is quickly becoming one of the more popular places in Flagler County. The city is known for having the perfect mix of things to see and do, all while remaining on a budget. From exploring beaches to seeing historic sites, there is always something to experience. If you are looking for some budget-friendly things to do, then look no more. We have compiled a list of our favorite five inexpensive places to explore here in Palm Coast. more 1. Washington Oaks State Park This is definitely a favorite of ours. With admission at only $5 per vehicle, it is definitely a place that won't break the bank either. They have picnic tables, a playground, and beautiful beaches and gardens. You can easily spend a whole day exploring. The kids can bring their bikes and you could go on a hike as well. You can find Washington Oaks State Park at 6400 North Ocean Shore Blvd. 2. River to Sea Preserve Not only is Palm Coast home to some of the greatest beaches around, but it is also home to rivers and lakes. The River to Sea Preserve lies on nearly 100-acres. You can find public beach access, a boardwalk, camping, and kayaking. They also host events year-round to bring the community closer to nature.  It is located at 9805 North Ocean Shore Blvd. 3. Florida Agricultural Museum For a unique experience, you can check out the historical Florida Agricultural Museum. You can see what it was like living in Florida before modern-day society. They have farm animals including pigs, horses, and cattle. There is a museum with artifacts dating back more than 100 years. They do offer guided tours and trail rides with reservations and are open from Wednesday through Sunday at 7900 Old Kings Road. 4. Marineland Located just a few miles up the road from Palm Coast is Marineland. Admission is free for children up to 4, $13.95 for kids, and adults are $22.95. While it is one of the pricier places on our list, your admission covers many different animal habitats. They house animals such as sand sharks, sea turtles, and dolphins. Your admission goes to preserving marine life and their many different educational programs. They are open generally from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Marineland Dolphin Adventure is located at 9600 North Ocean Shore Blvd. 5. Waterfront Park This park is a great no-cost place to visit with the whole family. It is 20-acres with access to pavilions, grills, and playgrounds. It is located along the Intracoastal Parkway so you might even get to see dolphins and manatees if you get close to the water. There is also a fishing pier and several trails for walking or riding bicycles. This serene park is a great way to end a busy day while out and about in Palm Coast. Waterfront Park is located at 150 Waterfront Park Road. You can enjoy the city and everything it has to offer even if you are on a budget. Enjoy your next cost-conscious outing while in Palm Coast. Image via Flickr by miamism used under CC BY 2.0

Ford has brought back the EcoSport again and it is better than ever. Compact crossover popularity has exploded in recent years and Ford is taking advantage of it. They have made their version affordable and included some great features this model year. From the fuel-efficient engine to the stylish design, it has everything trendy and budget-conscious drivers are looking for. Keep reading to find out five reasons why drivers love the 2020 Ford EcoSport. more 1. Varied Trim Levels to Meet Your Needs Whether you're car shopping on a budget or looking for a decked out ride, the EcoSport has the perfect trim level for you. The base S model comes equipped with many standard features, but if you bump up a level to the SE, you'll get lots more, including body-colored accents, silver-painted, and a larger touch screen display. If you're looking for more performance or luxury opt for the all-wheel-drive SES trim, or the Titanium, which comes with leather upholstery and a B&O Play premium sound system. 2. Advanced Technology Ford has implemented the latest and greatest in technology with its 2020 Ecosport. On the SE model, you will now get a large 8-inch touch-screen display, which is 1.5 inches bigger than their previous models. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included to make it easier than ever to connect your phone with your car. You can access navigation, music, and your contacts with the touch of a finger. The 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is also standard. The SYNC 3 Infotainment system includes a user-friendly interface to make it easier for drivers of all ages to access and use. 3. Fuel-Efficient Engine Having a fuel-efficient engine is becoming more important to drivers. The EcoSport includes your choice of two engines to make this happen. The 1.0-liter turbocharged engine provides you with great fuel economy and 123 horsepower. The 2.0-liter engine puts out 166 horsepower while maintaining a great mile per gallon range. 4. Safety Features We know how important the safety of you and your family is. That is why the EcoSport now includes more standard safety features than ever. You will get an advanced 10 airbag safety system to help protect you in case of a collision. You will also get AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, SYNC 911 Assist, and a rearview camera to help you reverse safely. Available safety features will include a Blind Spot Monitoring System with Cross-Traffic Alert and more. 5. Comfortable Interior The EcoSport now includes a comfortable, spacious interior design with higher-end finishes. Passengers in front and back can sit comfortably with an ample amount of legroom. The Titanium will come with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather-trimmed seats as well as heated seats. The SES comes with leather and cloth seating and nice copper-colored accenting. You will also get a power driver's seat. The S model will come with cloth seats and manually adjustable steering wheel. If you are interested in more information about the 2020 Ecosport, don't hesitate to contact us here at Palm Coast Ford. Any of our knowledgeable sales team members would be glad to help you. image via Ford.com

This state park is one of the most gorgeous places in the entire state of Florida. From the trees to the shoreline, there is no end to the magic you can find at this favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Keep reading for a way to adventure and spend a day when you get a chance to visit Washington Oaks State Park near Palm Coast Florida. more Background Information This state park is located on 425 acres between the Atlantic Ocean and the Matanzas River. It is dedicated to preserving the coastal scenery and the wildlife that call it home. Admission to the park is only $5 per vehicle and you can stay from 8 a.m. until sunset. You can find it at 6400 North Oceanshore Blvd. What to Do There is definitely plenty to do at Washington Oaks. There are bicycle trails available, so remember to bring your helmet! There are several great places to bird watch as it is part of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. There are a wide variety of birds year-round that you might just be able to catch a glimpse of. If you are looking for birds, chances are you might be looking for other animals too. There are several great recreational fishing spots here as well. There are several species including drum, redfish, bluefish, and flounder. You will also find several different hiking trails here for another great way to get out and enjoy the outdoors. What Amenities are Included? We know that when you plan a day out, you probably want to know what all is located where you are going. Washington Oaks is proud to have several amenities available to visit. There is a large picnic pavilion with grills so you can enjoy a cookout. You will find a playground for the children located close to the picnic area, along with accessible restroom facilities. There is also a portable toilet on the beach. The Beach and Gardens are Both Must-Sees The beach at this state park is one of the most beautiful in the state. The shoreline is lined with coquina rock formations. Picture taking here is one of the visitors' favorite things to do. If you have ever heard of this magical place before then you know that it is known for its gardens. Their formal garden includes exotic plants that come from around the world. It is abundant in azaleas, camellias, and roses. There are also reflecting ponds so you can relax in peace. These are both an absolute must-see when visiting. Are There Any Rules? While there aren't many rules here there are some that must be acknowledged. Pets are allowed but they must be kept on a leash and they can't be left unattended. It is also requested that you leave everything how you found it. Use trash and recycling receptacles to help protect ocean animals. We hope that the next time you are given a chance to visit Washington Oaks State Park you take it and run! There is so much to see and do here that it would be tragic if you missed out. Image via Flickr by rkramer62 used under CC BY 2.0

As versatile as it is practical, the Ford Edge is a great family vehicle. This compact SUV has several different trim levels available to choose from, but there are two that continue to take the top spot year after year. Each offer different choices for the interior and exterior. You get to choose, the SE or Titanium. Which Ford Edge is right for you? more Ford Edge SE The SE trim level is what you get for the base model, but it is so much more than what you expect. The exterior style is sleek and eye-catching with features such as body-color spoiler and door handles, bright grille, and LED headlamps and daytime running lamps. You will also get features such as automatic windshield wipers and a rear window dual speed wiper with defroster. Powerful yet economical, the engine of the SE model will not let you down. The Twin-Scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission gives you a smooth ride. You will get great fuel economy for a small SUV as well. Performance Features such as AdvanceTrac, Traction Control, and Auto Start-Stop Technology will also be standard. When you step into the interior of the Edge SE, you will definitely not be disappointed. You will find a highly comfortable design with some of the best technology and safety features on the market. Inside you get cloth seating with a 10-way power driver's seat. You will also get features such as Ford's SYNC 3 technology, FordPassConnect with 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot capabilities. Safety features included are Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert. Ford Edge Titanium When you move up to the Titanium level you will get the features listed above plus plenty more. For the exterior, you will see added features such as heated exterior mirrors, a bright dual-exhaust, and 19-inch luster nickel-painted aluminum wheels. The engine setup will remain the same with the option for an intelligent all-wheel-drive system. Inside the Titanium, you will get some more upgrades. Seats will be leather-trimmed with heated front seats and a 10-way power adjustment system. You will also get a heated steering wheel and a hands-free power tailgate. If you wish you can also get a dual-headrest DVD system to entertain the kids while on longer rides. An upgraded audio sound system by Bang & Olufsen will also be standard on the Titanium. You will get 4.2-inch LCD cluster displays and ambient lighting to help set the mood for the entire inside of your vehicle. Things to Consider Before you jump into the SE or Titanium, it is important to consider what you are wanting out of the Ford Edge. If you strictly are looking for great engine performance and a practical interior, the SE could be better for you than the upgraded Titanium. If you would like to discuss the Ford Edge or need anything from our knowledgeable sales staff, please feel free to contact the crew here at Palm Coast Ford. We would be more than happy to get you set up for a test drive or answer any questions you have. image via Ford.com

Just like each of us, man's best friend needs to spend some time outdoors every once in a while. Here is a list of places in Palm Coast, Florida, that won't discriminate against your doggy. more Washington Oaks Gardens State Park Sitting pretty between the Atlantic and the Matanzas River, this state park covers 425 gorgeous acres of territory in Palm Coast. Take your pup on a tour of one of the largest coquina rock outcroppings on the Atlantic side of the nation or walk along its bolder-covered beaches. Wander freely among the hickory, magnolia, and oak trees that tower above the core of the park or relax on the 20 acres of tended gardens and citrus groves that are the legacy of the Young family. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife. You never know what species you'll run into during your journey. James Holland Park For a walk that you can enjoy with your pet and family members of all ages head to James Holland Park. While you let your pet roam under your watchful eye, your family and friends can enjoy the zip lines, climbing nets, slides, swings, and rock climbing spots in this picturesque and relaxing location. This well-maintained and thoughtfully planned-out park is home to a covered picnic area, so bring meals for your canines and people alike. This is a top-rated park among the residents of Palm Coast. Fortunato Park Not far from Palm Coast in Ormond Beach, Florida, you'll find an excellent park for walking your dog. Fortunato Park is one of four parks situated at the corners of the Granada Boulevard Bridge. A playground sits near its center, and a small boat ramp leads out into the water. It is built for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats, so plan accordingly. Let your pet frolic in the water for a while as you relax in the park's green space and gaze out to the point where the sea meets the sky. Manatee Island Park Down the road from Palm Springs in Daytona Beach, Florida, sits a park on a peaceful island. No cars are allowed on it, as the island is also a wildlife sanctuary. Park on the mainland and walk your pet across the boardwalk to reach the park. The waters around the island are home to many manatees, so feel free to keep an eye out for them as you walk your dog. During the warmer seasons the island's amphitheater is home to a troupe of players, so take in a performance while you're on the island. Barkley Square Dog Park Covering 14 acres of running space, Barkley Square in De Land, Florida, is the perfect place for a perambulation with your pet. Within it sits a pond made for man's best friend, a doggy washing station, restrooms, and a manicured lawn surrounded by trees and beaches. Take your dog for a jog in this picturesque place, and you'll return with them again and again. Palm Springs and the surrounding area is full of places friendly to dog-walking. Check these out, and your dog will thank you for it. Image via Flickr by tristanloper used under CC BY-SA 2.0