The History of Square Dancing in the Southern U.S.
Square dancing has captivated generations with its rhythmic steps, vibrant music, and sense of unity. Deeply rooted in American culture, it is significant in Southern states like Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Let us explore the origins, evolution, and cultural importance of square dancing in America and ‘the West’!
The Origins of Square Dancing
Square dancing originated from various European folk dances, like the English Morris dance, French quadrille, and Scottish reel, brought to America by European immigrants in the 17th and 18th centuries. Over time, these styles blended into the American square dance we know today. The quadrille, involving four couples in a square, greatly influenced square dancing’s development. After the American Revolution, it became a popular social activity in the new nation. By the 19th century, square dancing had spread widely in America, especially in rural areas, becoming a fixture at social gatherings. African-American communities played a key role, often serving as musicians and introducing the practice of “calling”—announcing dance steps. This innovation is now a defining feature of square dancing.
Square Dancing in the Southern States
Square dancing, cherished across the nation, holds a special significance in the cultural fabric of Southern states like Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. This vibrant tradition flourishes in the Southwest, with each state infusing the dance with its unique flair. In Texas, square dancing is more than just a pastime—it’s a way of life. Numerous clubs and large-scale events attract enthusiasts nationwide, underscoring its role as a cultural cornerstone that celebrates community and tradition.
In Arizona and New Mexico, square dancing is enriched by the Southwest’s cultural diversity, blending Native American and Mexican folk traditions. This fusion acts as a cultural bridge, fostering mutual appreciation and understanding. Meanwhile, in Oklahoma, the dance is intertwined with the state’s cowboy culture, embodying a rugged, independent spirit that makes it a beloved local pastime. Together, these states form a dynamic hub for square dancing, honoring its historical roots while celebrating its enduring cultural significance.
Key Milestones in Square Dance History
In the early 20th century, square dancing faced a decline as other forms of entertainment gained popularity. Henry Ford, the famous industrialist, played a pivotal role in reviving the dance. He sponsored square dance clubs and events, ensuring the tradition’s survival and inspiring a new generation of enthusiasts. Educator Lloyd Shaw was instrumental in transforming square dance from a regional folk activity into a national phenomenon.
After World War II, Shaw integrated square dancing into high school physical education programs across the country, helping to standardize calls and choreography. Today, square dancing has evolved into two primary forms: Traditional Square Dance, known for its regional varieties and simpler, pre-determined calls, and Modern Western Square Dance, which evolved in the 1970s and features more complex calls, improvisation by callers, and a broader range of music.
The Spirit of Square Dancing and Americana
Square dancing stands as a testament to America’s cultural diversity and spirit of innovation. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply someone looking to try something new, square dancing offers a delightful way to connect with others and celebrate our shared heritage.
Ready to step into the enchanting world of square dancing? Put on your dancing shoes, find a partner, and join the community that keeps this timeless tradition alive. Much like square dancing, cars are a central part of the American way of life. Visit Toyota of Abilene and keep the American dream alive with all the cars, trucks, and SUVs you could ever wish for! Whether you’re going to the honky tonk, need something that can tow for work, or simply want to cruise in style, we have what you need. We look forward to seeing you at Toyota of Abilene!
Two models stand out in the rapidly changing world of hybrids: the 2025 Honda Civic and the 2024 Toyota Prius. If you care about fuel efficiency, performance, and modern technology, the 2024 Toyota Prius is your best option.
Strong Powertrain
The 2024 Toyota Prius features a powerful 2.0-liter I-4 engine with two electric motors, providing a total of up to 196 hp. Unlike the Honda Civic Hybrid, the Prius offers all-wheel drive (AWD), adding a third motor on the rear axle for better stability. This AWD option is great for anyone needing extra traction in different driving conditions, which the Civic Hybrid doesn’t offer.
For those wanting more, the Prius Prime is a plug-in hybrid version that increases total output to 220 hp and can run in all-electric mode for up to 44 miles. This flexibility is perfect for drivers looking to save on gas.
Excellent Fuel Efficiency
The 2024 Toyota Prius stands out for its fuel efficiency. The EPA rates it at an impressive 57 mpg in both the city and on the highway. Even the high-end trims, which have larger wheels and more features, still manage up to 52 mpg. In contrast, the Honda Civic Hybrid only gets about 50 mpg in the city and 47 mpg on the highway.
For Prius Prime drivers, expect fuel efficiency between 50 and 53 mpg in hybrid mode, and in EV mode, it runs without using any fuel.
Roomy and Flexible Design
The 2024 Prius is a hatchback that seats five and offers plenty of cargo space. Its stylish yet practical design allows for extra storage when the back seats fold down, making it a great choice for families and anyone needing extra room.
Smart Technology and Safety
Toyota keeps you connected and safe with advanced tech and safety features. The base Prius has an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, while higher trims come with a 12.3-inch screen. Both have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For safety, the Prius includes Toyota Safety Sense, which features automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and road sign recognition. These features help ensure a safe driving experience.
Affordable Pricing
The 2024 Prius starts at just over $29,000 for the basic LE trim and goes up to around $36,000 for the Limited model. Adding AWD costs an extra $1,400, making it accessible for those who need it. The Prius Prime starts a bit higher, just over $34,000, but offers plug-in hybrid technology.
Drive Efficiently. Drive the 2024 Toyota Prius
The 2024 Toyota Prius offers great power, efficiency, and advanced features, making it an excellent choice for eco-friendly drivers. The Prius beats the Honda Civic Hybrid in key areas with its top fuel economy, AWD option, and modern technology in 2024, with more surprises and efficiency likely on the way in the yet-to-be-announced 2025 Prius.
Ready to switch to a more efficient and versatile hybrid? Learn more about the 2024 Toyota Prius and see why it’s the right choice for you. Visit Toyota of Abilene to test drive the 2024 Prius, take advantage of our service specials to keep your car in top shape, and stop by our financing department to prepare for an upgrade when the 2025 model arrives!
Stop on Red Week: Promoting Safety at Intersections
Intersection crashes are some of the most perilous traffic incidents, frequently resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. To increase awareness and encourage safe driving, National Stop on Red Week is observed each year during the first week of August. This initiative is a vital reminder of the importance of adhering to traffic signals and underscores the severe consequences of running red lights.
The History and Importance of Stop on Red Week
National Stop on Red Week was established by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) in 1995 to educate the public about the severity of traffic collisions and the role of traffic signals in preventing accidents. The first stop sign appeared in Detroit in 1915, and by the late 1920s, the familiar red background and octagon shape were standardized to minimize confusion and ensure clear communication to drivers.
The statistics are alarming. In 2016 alone, 808 people were killed, and 137,000 were injured due to drivers running red lights. Between 2008 and 2021, an estimated 11,296 people lost their lives in crashes related to red-light running. These numbers underscore the critical need for initiatives like Stop on Red Week to remind drivers of their responsibility to follow traffic signals.
Why Stop on Red Week is Crucial
Traffic signals are not mere suggestions; they are vital control mechanisms that keep intersections safe. Stop on Red Week emphasizes its role in preventing accidents and saving lives by teaching the dangers of reckless driving. Ignoring red lights and stop signs can lead to catastrophic accidents, highlighting the importance of controlled speed and direction at intersections to make roads safer for everyone. While most drivers know basic traffic laws, their significance can sometimes be forgotten, making Stop on Red Week a crucial refresher that underscores why these rules exist and their life-saving impact.
Cutting-Edge Car Safety Features
Modern technology has brought forth a range of advanced safety features aimed at preventing accidents, particularly at intersections. Here’s a closer look at some of the most effective features related to automatic emergency braking:
- Blind Spot Detection: Alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spots, helping prevent side-impact collisions.
- Forward Collision Warning: Monitors the road ahead and warns drivers of potential collisions, giving them time to react.
- Brake Assist: Boosts braking power during emergency stops, reducing stopping distances.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts speed to maintain a safe distance from the car ahead, now a standard feature in many new vehicles.
- Lane Keeping Assist: Helps drivers stay in their lane by providing corrective steering when needed.
- These features work together to enhance safety and minimize the risk of accidents caused by human error.
Be Safe This August with New Safety Features
National Stop on Red Week is a vital campaign that highlights the importance of obeying traffic signals and the risks associated with reckless driving. This week-long initiative aims to reduce accidents at intersections and save lives by promoting safe driving practices, increasing public awareness, and encouraging the use of advanced vehicle safety features.
At Toyota of Abilene, we are proud to offer Kia cars equipped with some of the best safety features on the market. Regardless of the type of vehicle you currently own or are considering, our cars come with Toyota Safety Sense, which includes the Pre-Collision System and Lane Tracing Assist with Steering Assist features in most new models. Trade in your outdated car today and upgrade to enhance your safety on the road this Stop on Red Week!
What SUV is Right for You? A 2024 Toyota Highlander vs. 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicle Comparison
Chevy and Toyota have released two fantastic SUVs in 2024, with 2025 editions on the horizon. While both have their high points, which SUV is right for you? Read below for an informational comparison to help you make the best decision at the dealership!
2024 Chevrolet Traverse
Powered by a 315-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, the Chevy Traverse offers a variety of trims, AWD, and a modest starting price of $38,995 for all its features. Some highlights include Chevrolet’s Super Cruise, a large 17.7-inch diagonal infotainment display powered by Google, a 23 combined mpg, and a best-in-class 98 cu. ft. max cargo volume to pack everything you need for your adventures on the road.
The 2024 Chevy Traverse offers several trim models including the LS, LT, Z71, and RS with a variety of added features including wireless charging, additional passenger seating, bicyclist alert, lane change alert, rear cross-traffic alert with braking, blind zone steering assist, and more. The all-new 2025 Chevy Traverse looms on the horizon, with orders and productions expected to begin late in August of this year. Despite only minor changes anticipated, current specs are not publicly available which leads to speculation and excitement on how this domestic powerhouse will perform in the new release year.
2024 Toyota Highlander
Comparatively, the 2024 Toyota Highlander is loaded with a 265-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine on the base model. The EPA rates the Highlander with a 25-mpg combined mileage comparable to the competition, with better mileage options for hybrid options. Some standout features include a dual-screen configuration with 12.3-inch displays supporting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with multiple USB ports. The Toyota Highlander also boasts a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs, an optional panoramic moonroof, and comes equipped with the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense suite for enhanced safety.
The Toyota Highlander offers a variety of trims, including electrified options, that feature cosmetic and technological upgrades like heated power outside mirrors with turn signals and blind spot warning indicators. Toyota has been one of the major players in electrified vehicles in the North American market, with cars that have set the pace for the future of vehicles.
Trust Our Vehicle Comparison and Let Us Get You into Your New SUV!
This vehicle comparison is a seesaw contest between those two incredibly midsize SUVs. Ultimately, the two models offer ample interior room for passengers and cargo, modern technology, and identical warranties. The final decision will largely depend on each driver’s needs. Not everyone needs a large vehicle and extra footage for cargo isn’t a draw, opting for a more mileage-friendly city vehicle – while other drivers may need all-wheel-drive for their day-to-day.
Whichever your needs, Toyota of Abilene can help you find the right vehicle for you. Whether the 2024 Toyota Highlander’s features blow you away or you’d rather test-drive another vehicle type like the 2025 Toyota Crown. Visit our dealership and learn more about the great, modern options of Toyota cars available today!
After Honda announced their hydrogen fuel cell project, competitors are racing to improve on designs using the new fuel type in what can be called the auto industry’s next revolution. This week, Toyota announced their hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle is built and being tested in the UK in their quest for zero-emissions.
The Hilux Project – Toyota’s Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle
Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell Project Hilux has finally entered the demonstration phase with 10 prototypes, using Toyota’s fuel cell electric technology. Despite still undergoing evaluation, five vehicles have been sent out for field testing, with the other five being used for demonstrations – including at the incoming 2024 Paris Olympic and Paralympic games.
Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are the next frontier in the auto industry’s push for clean fuels and fossil fuel replacements despite the undeveloped tech being around since 1966. With Toyota’s Beyond Zero Vision, the company is pushing to reach their vision of being beyond carbon neutrality with their products for a better world – something Toyota is proud of as the automaker that offers the most low and zero-emission vehicles than any other company currently in the market.
Toyota Mirai
Initially introduced at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Toyota Mirai officially debuted in 2022 with its 2023 model year, selling 21,475 units as the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. While the tech wasn’t there yet for mass production a decade ago, the moment is ripe for electric and hydrogen cell vehicles. The 2024 Toyota Mirai offers some impressive features including affordable prices for the new tech and a 402-mile range – far more than most if any Electric Vehicles currently on the global market.
While the 2024 Toyota Mirai sales aren’t currently high, this can largely be attributed to the lack of infrastructure in the United States and globally. Electric Vehicles are having their moment in the sun, and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles need a lot more infrastructure to grow. This next step in auto fuel will likely become popular in the US after government-sponsored changes to EVs gain more traction and consumers can think of transitioning from gas to EVs and eventually to FHEVs. For now, much of the market lies in Asia and Europe. When will we see the Mirai popularized in the US? Only time will tell.
Help Save The World with Toyota
Join the eco-conscious revolution with any of Toyota’s great lineup of hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Electric Vehicle cars currently available. Hydrogen fuel cells may be cutting edge in the United States now, but that doesn’t mean you can’t help save the world by going electric!
At Toyota of Abilene, we offer a variety of great electrified models such as the 2025 Toyota Crown, the 2024 Toyota bZ4X, and the 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime. Join the brand with the most eco-friendly fleet of quality vehicles currently available! Visit our dealership and test drive any of these models today and help the environment as we work towards a carbon-neutral future!
Three Moving Tips for National Moving Month
May is National Moving Month, marking the beginning of peak moving season in the United States. Moving can be more than a hassle, but also a new adventure! Follow our great tips for a safe, successful, and stress-free move!
Prep Ahead
Moving can seem daunting, but with some prep and planning, it’s a manageable adventure. Having an inventory list isn’t just great for moving but for insurance purposes as well. Write down your belongings, the amount (for multiple things such as cups), and which box they’ll be in. A checklist will ensure everything is packed, that nothing fragile is packed under heavy items, and save you time by numbering boxes instead of naming them.
Another great way to prep ahead is to Marie Kondo your home – donating, throwing away, and sorting items to lighten your load. Moving is some of the best times to reassess what you have and find things you thought were lost. Decluttering, sorting, and packing as far ahead as possible makes sorting a fun and easy chore that can make a move much more manageable.
Invest In Moving Equipment
Speaking of packing, don’t wait to run to the store to stock up on boxes, box cutters, markers, packing tape, paper towels, and garbage bags. That’s not the only thing on the equipment list, however. Buying, renting, or borrowing a furniture dolly, furniture pads or covers, and tie-down straps or rope for an easier move can make the process easier if not safer. Don’t risk injuries due to improper equipment or lifting.
Transportation
Everything’s packed, but how are you getting from point A to point B? Movers are always an option, but the average cost of moving a home can range between $2,000 and $4,000. Unless you’re moving for a new position that offers a relocation package, that’s not feasible for many households.
One of the biggest traditions is calling your friends and family, buying them a drink and some pizza, and getting to work packing a rented truck and your car – but what if you could save the money on the rental as well? A well-equipped car can hold a surprising amount of cargo. Some 2024 SUVs even have upwards of 144 cubic feet! Add in a roof rack, towing hitch, stowing seats, and more features to maximize your space, and your move becomes a lot more affordable.
Upgrading for National Moving Month
Upgrading to a new car with more cargo has more benefits in the long run than a move. Did you know that people move around 11 times on average during their lives? Moving isn’t an if, it’s a when. Make sure you’re ready with plenty of space! The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid and 2024 Toyota 4Runner are some of the best new models out there, with great features, ample cargo space, and efficient mileage for everyday driving and long-distance moving.
This National Moving Month, visit Toyota of Abilene and get yourself a spacious, dependable car to cruise through one of the top three most stressful life events a person can experience in their lifetime. Our team can help you choose the vehicle that’s right for you right now and for many years to come!
The Best Toyotas to Buy 2024 Graduates
With May comes the flurry of graduation ceremonies, marking both endings and beginnings. Whether your graduate is bidding farewell to high school or university, it’s a moment steeped in nostalgia and anticipation. But as they embark on the next phase of their journey, a reliable vehicle becomes an essential companion.
If you’re in the market to gift your graduate with a new car or SUV, there are key considerations to keep in mind: fuel efficiency, storage capacity, technological advancements, and, of course, safety features. Whether they’re off to college or diving into post-graduation adventures, ensuring they’re equipped for the road ahead is paramount.
For utmost peace of mind, look no further than these two top picks approved by Kelley Blue Book, readily available at Toyota of Abilene: your go-to destination for new graduate wheels.
The 2024 Toyota Corolla
Whether your graduate will stay local at McMurry in town or is gearing up for their inaugural semester away, the steadfast Toyota Corolla promises to keep them seamlessly connected. Boasting Bluetooth with voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, staying in touch has never been easier. Modern conveniences like automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, and a rear-seat center armrest add to its allure. With an EPA-rated combined fuel economy of 35 mpg, the Corolla ensures fewer stops at the pump, leaving more room for adventure.
Safety takes center stage with the Corolla, recognized as an IIHS Top Safety Pick. Every variant of the 2024 Toyota Corolla comes equipped with Toyota’s Safety Sense 3.0, a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features including:
- Pedestrian detection
- Automatic emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-departure warning
- Lane-keeping assist
- Traffic sign recognition
- Automatic high beams
The 2024 Toyota Prius
Much lauded as the recent recipient of MotorTrend Car of the Year, the 2024 Toyota Prius stands as a beacon of hybrid excellence. While it may come at a slightly higher price point than the Corolla, the Prius remains unrivaled in its hybrid capabilities, making it an ideal companion for campus life. Following a redesign in the 2023 model, it boasts a sleeker, more elongated profile without compromising its impressive combined driving fuel economy of 57 mpg. For those braving wintry terrains, an optional AWD variant ensures added traction and confidence.
Also honored as an IIHS Top Safety Pick, every trim level of the 2024 Prius includes an array of safety features such as automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with steering assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, high-beam assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
Send Them Off in Style
Toss your caps, turn your tassels, and bid farewell to the nostalgic strains of that ubiquitous Vitamin C song. As you step into the realm of post-graduate car ownership, begin your journey at Toyota of Abilene, where a world of automotive excellence awaits. If you’re looking for a new or used Toyota for your graduate, you’ve come to the right place. We won’t be satisfied until we pair them with a vehicle that exceeds your safety standards. Sleep easier knowing your son or daughter is driving a tried-and-true vehicle by visiting Toyota of Abilene.
Runner’s High: The New 4Runner is Finally Here
Although it wasn’t quite as long as our once and future wait between eclipses, we’ve been waiting 15 long years for a new model of the Toyota 4Runner. The fifth-generation 4Runner was revealed in 2009; since then, we’ve gone through three presidential elections, a global pandemic, and the entire Game of Thrones series. Even the Chicago Cubs won a World Series since the 4Runner’s last major revision.
Thankfully, now that we’ve seen the 2025 Toyota 4Runner, the wait appears to be well worth it. Much more than another cosmetic facelift, the new 4Runner introduces itself with a new engine, vastly updated interior, and more safety tech and features than ever before.
A 4Runner For a New Era
At first glance, the new sixth-generation 4Runner doesn’t appear to deviate much from its fifth-generation iteration. When it comes to exterior style, Toyota avoided making any dramatic alterations to the top-selling SUV’s proven formula; in other words, you won’t mistake it for anything other than a 4Runner.
And yet the 2025 4Runner is no minor update – it’s an all-new vehicle, inside and out. This is immediately clear under hood, where the outgoing 4.0-liter V-6 engine has been replaced by Toyota’s tried-and-true 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder, good for 278 hp and 317 lb.-ft. For the first time, higher trims (there are nine total, including the new Trailhunter and Platinum editions) of the 4Runner get an i-Force Max hybrid engine that boosts those numbers to 326 hp and 425 lb.-ft. If the word “hybridization” in relation to Toyota’s off-road champion gives you pause, rest assured there’s no mistaking the new 4Runner for the award-winning Prius; this hybrid engine is designed to optimize performance, rather than maximize fuel economy.
In addition to the new powertrains, the new 4Runner has an upgraded frame. It shares its TGNA-F frame and suspension architecture with recent models of the Tacoma. Like the Tacoma, the 4Runner’s wheelbase has been lengthened at the front to accommodate larger tires. In the back, the 4Runner’s new styling jogs up past the rear doors; combined with the SUV’s expanded length, it gives it an altogether bulkier, more muscular appearance. Meanwhile, the rear side windows’ upper edges roll onto the roof, evoking memories of the 4Runner’s first- and second-generation ancestors.
Change From the Inside
If the new 4Runner’s exterior is a welcome but familiar sight, the interior is all about exceeding expectations. With more safety tech and features than ever before, the inside of the modernized 2025 4Runner practically overflows with ideas.
The cabin area has been completely overhauled, and once again the 4Runner has borrowed heavily from the Tacoma; the instrument cluster, center stack, and various buttons, knobs, and switches are identical to what you’d find inside Toyota’s off-road pickup. Each trim comes with a 14.0-inch infotainment touchscreen and includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The 2025 4Runner comes loaded with the latest in modern amenities. You’ll find the following when you peak inside:
- Screen-Mounted USB Port
- Upright Wireless Charge Pad
- Roll-Down Rear Window Button
- Digital Rearview Mirror
- Rear Climate
- Cupholders for Optional Third-Row Seats
Run With the Wind This Autumn
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner hits our showroom floor this fall – practically no time at all, considering the 15-year hiatus between models that we’ve already endured. While we wait for its arrival, run over to Toyota of Abilene: your one-stop shop for all things Toyota.
Schedule your test drive today and explore our loaded inventory of new and used Toyota vehicles. From the electrified 2024 Corolla Hybrid to the adventurous 2024 Land Cruiser, we’re sure to have the vehicle to match your lifestyle. And with our Service Center on standby to handle your brake repairs, tire rotation, oil change, and other maintenance concerns, you’ll have everything you need to keep your Toyota on the road until the seventh-generation 4Runner arrives… you know, in a decade or two.
