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If you're excited to watch the Super Bowl this year, one of your first steps is to find a great place to watch the big game. While many people in El Monte might travel to Los Angeles for Super Bowl parties and other events, you don't necessarily have to go far to find a sports bar where you can watch the game with friends or even make it a solo event. Whether you want to drive a bit to find a place to watch the game or you'd like to stay close, this area has a lot to offer. These are some of the best places in and near El Monte to catch the game this year. 1. Clearman's Galley Image by Dave Adamson is licensed with Unsplash License Clearman's Galley is a restaurant and sports bar with a big dine-in menu as well as online ordering if you decide you'd like to watch the game at home. The Galley is known for its burgers, cold beers, and TVs. Plus, it's a family-friendly place to watch the game if you've got little ones you want to share the day with. If you're not sure what's good on the menu, take a look at the burgers, chicken dinners, and sandwiches. The Galley Cheeseburger is a favorite, thanks to its fresh beef patty and Thousand Island dressing with chili. Galley's Hot Wings are deep-fried and crispy, perfectly served with a side of blue cheese. You can even enjoy your food on the patio. If you plan to visit sometime before the big game, check out happy hour Tuesday through Friday between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Location: 7215 N. Rosemead Blvd., San Gabriel. Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 2. The 626 Craft Beer & Cocktail Bar This South El Monte bar offers craft beer, cocktails, pool tables, and sports on TV. The 626 Craft Beer & Cocktail Bar offers a fun and casual atmosphere for watching sports with friends or playing billiards after work. One of the biggest reasons to visit the bar is that you'll find 18 rotating beers on tap. You'll find some interesting specials available at the bar as well. Plus, Happy Hour deals apply to pints, liquors, and cocktails. Location: 9444 Garvey Ave., South El Monte. Hours: 4 p.m. to midnight Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday and 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday. 3. The Greyhound Bar & Grill If you're looking for great bar food at a more upscale sports bar for the Super Bowl, The Greyhound Bar & Grill is a great place to stop in Highland Park. While the bar is, first and foremost, the official location for the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Club, it's also a well-known spot for hanging out during other sporting events. For example, the bar offers special deals on food and drinks during each L.A. Dodgers game. The wings are definitely a must-have if you visit Greyhound. Other recommended menu items include pizza and the Korean-fried chicken hoagie. You can also visit during "Lovely Hour" for special deals between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. each day and 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Location: 5570 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles. Hours: Noon to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 9:45 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday. 4. The Pour House Monrovia The Pour House Monrovia is a neighborhood sports bar, especially on Super Bowl Sunday. The bar also shows NFL Sunday Ticket, the World Cup, and UFC fights on various days of the week, so you never have to miss a match. The bar also hosts live music each week. The bar even opens early on Sundays, so there's always a place to watch an NFL game. If you plan to bring a big group with you, you might want to call ahead to make sure that The Pour House can accommodate you on the big day. No matter the size of your group, you don't want to miss out on the tasty pizza, hamburgers, or tater tots. Location: 405 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia. Hours: 4:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 4:30 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, and 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday. 5. The Bit Tavern The Bit Tavern is a bar with many TV screens. No matter your sport, you can count on The Bit to have it playing. That's especially true on Super Bowl Sunday. The outdoor patio is also super convenient for watching sports, eating tasty tavern food, and drinking your favorite beers. If you want to take a break from the big game, check out the darts board, regulation shuffleboard table, and pool table. The atmosphere is casual, but you'll find that this bar has many drinks you won't find just anywhere else. They have craft beers, imports, domestics, ciders, IPAs, and plenty of local brewery options. Location: 4167 Live Oak Ave., Arcadia. Hours: 8 a.m. to midnight Monday through Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 9 a.m. to midnight Sunday. 6. Silver Dollar Saloon Silver Dollar Saloon is technically a dive bar, but it advertises itself as the "friendliest dive bar." Plus, it's right in El Monte, so you won't have to go very far for cold drinks on game day. The bar even offers buckets of beers and shots, so they're well-stocked if you're looking for a place to bring the group on Super Bowl Sunday. It's a casual place where you can feel free to stop in for a quick drink or to spend the whole game. Location: 10729 Lower Azusa Road, El Monte. Hours: 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Wednesday, 12 p.m. to 2 a.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday. If you're excited to celebrate the Super Bowl this year, you aren't alone. Many of the bars in and around El Monte are getting ready for the big game. At Longo Toyota, we're excited to watch the playoffs to see who's going to make it to the Super Bowl. Where do you plan to spend Super Bowl Sunday, and who are you rooting for?

Recently introduced in March 2022, the 2023 GR Corolla is a high-performance, hot-hatchback version of the ever-popular Corolla. Just one of the many Toyota models available at Longo Toyota, El Monte, the new 2023 GR Corolla is a careful tweaking of an already-successful model manufactured by Toyota with racing specs designed by Gazoo Racing (GR). With a variety of attractive features, such as the GR-Four all-wheel drive variable torque distribution system, Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and a snazzy interior, this is a fantastic addition to the Corolla range. Essentially, this is the GR-tuned version of a subcompact car, with greater power, performance, and style, but without losing the specs that have made the Corolla one of the most popular cars of the past 50 years. Trims The GR Corolla is available in three trims: the Core, Circuit, and limited-production exclusive Morizo Edition. The Morizo, named after the Toyota chairman's rally-driving alias, is a track-ready version with reduced weight and increased performance and handling. This reduction in weight is achieved by removing the rear seats and even the rear windshield wipers to increase speed and handling. This means the Morizo weighs in at 3,186 pounds compared with the 3,292 pounds of the Core and Circuit Editions. Exterior The Circuit Edition features a sleek Heavy Metal exterior color, with a hood bulge and functional air ducts. It has a forged carbon-fiber roof, which reduces weight and lowers the center of gravity to improve handling. The Core Edition is available in Magnetic Gray Metallic, while there are color options for the Circuit Edition that include Supersonic Red, Racing-car White, and more. All versions have chunky, vented fenders, a larger front grille, a hood bulge, and a rear spoiler. The effect is a car with an attractive body, looking as smooth and stylish downtown as it does on the racetrack. Interior Although the GR Corolla features the same high-quality materials and stylish design, it separates itself from the sedan models in a number of ways. All versions have either suede or synthetic leather racing seats with red stitching highlights. Additionally, all the models provide a GR performance readout on a 12.3-inch gauge cluster. Overall, the GR Corolla doesn't differ much from the sedan models, but several tweaks give it a comfortable, sporty look. Like the other 2023 Corollas, the GR models feature a new infotainment system. All the editions have an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. There is also wireless charging and a built-in navigation system. An Intelligent Assist System allows for voice commands that permit you to adjust the audio, change the interior temperature, and get driving directions without lifting a finger. Power and Performance 2023 Toyota Corolla The Core and Circuit Editions have a 1.6-liter Turbo Inline-3 Gas engine with 300 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both have a six-speed transmission and an all-wheel drivetrain. Fuel economy in these editions includes 28 mpg in the city and 37 on the highway, which works out to 31 mpg on average overall. The Morizo Edition has the same engine but is able to increase the torque to 295 lb-ft, with the same 300 horsepower and a returned gear differential to improve racetrack handling. These differences from the Core and Circuit versions mean that the Morizo Edition exhibits greater acceleration, although at the cost of a reduction in the top speed. Three oil-cooled pistons and a machined intake keep the engine cool, and three exhausts reduce the back pressure. In keeping with its rally car roots, the GR Corolla comes with a six-speed transmission and a rev-match function. The Core and Circuit Editions feature high-performance summer tires, while the Morizo Edition sports 10-spoke forged-alloy wheels that are wrapped in 245 mm tires for better acceleration and cornering. The performance of the Circuit and Morizo Editions is enhanced with the front and rear limited-slip differentials, minimizing the amount of skip between the different wheels on the axles. Therefore, the power is distributed between the wheels according to the traction level, helping to put the power into the ground. The usual distribution of power is 60:40 but can shift between 30:70 or 50:50. The performance of the Morizo has been widely praised for its close gear transmission, stiffened chassis, front brake ducts, and mono-tube shock absorbers, all of which improve the overall handling on the track. Safety Features Like other models in the same range, the GR Corolla comes with the Safety Sense 3.0 suite. This includes features such as pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control is a useful addition for the highway, providing effective vehicle-to-vehicle control that allows you to drive at a preset speed while keeping a set distance from other vehicles. An additional perk is the proactive driving assist. This is a system where the vehicle's radar and driving assist will give gentle braking into curves, improve distance control between your vehicle and a preceding one, and gently nudge you toward safer driving. A further safety feature is the lane departure alert with the steering assist. This system gives you a gentle warning if it detects that you have departed the lane inadvertently. Overall, the 2023 GR Corolla is a sporty hatchback version of the sedan that focuses on speed and high performance. The various trims offer different experiences. But for those really keen on taking to the track, the Morizo Edition is race ready. For those interested in exploring a range of uses from functional to recreational, the Core and Circuit models should fit your needs. The GR Corolla is part of a longstanding history of excellence. So, have a look online, or better still, come down to Longo Toyota in El Monte and have a closer look at what's available.

New Year's Eve is the perfect time to party, and there's no better place than the El Monte area. You'll find everything from casual bar crawls to elaborate and elegant parties where you can put on your best ball gowns and tuxedos and look right at home. We've rounded up a wide selection of choices so you can find the right New Year's Eve option for your style. Here are our top suggestions. Los Angeles New Year's Eve Party 2023 — Gatsby's Penthouse spray candle in a bottle by Myriam Zilles is licensed with Unsplash License Ring in the new year with a lively party themed to the roaring 20s. This chic event at Capture Studios Penthouse 59th floor in the U.S. Bank Building will transport you to a world of glitz and glamour. Party the night away in Los Angeles's tallest skyscraper and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding city. This upscale event includes a four-hour premium bar, two outstanding DJs, live casino games, and three areas where you can mix and mingle. Every attendee will receive complimentary party favors and access to the open bar. The casino games, including blackjack, roulette, and poker, will offer a variety of prizes. The top prize winner will get a pair of tickets to attend the party next year for New Year's Eve 2024. Upgrade to a VIP ticket, and you'll enjoy access to a separate VIP area with upgraded beverages, including Grey Goose vodka. Dress to impress in your best 20s attire. Plan to don your zoot suits, flapper dresses, and other themed apparel for the occasion. Location: 633 W. Fifth Street, Los Angeles Time: 9 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022, to 2 a.m. Jan. 1, 2023 New Year's Eve 2023 @ SLS Hotel Beverly Hills If you're looking for an elegant New Year's Eve event, this sophisticated party at the SLS Hotel Beverly Hills is just the thing. Formal suits and extravagant gowns are highly recommended, and at minimum, cocktail attire is encouraged. Tickets get you access to two expansive party spaces. Inside, you'll enjoy electronic dance, house, and techno music. On the covered, heated terrace, you'll find open-format Top-40 music with hits ranging from hip-hop to pop. With more than six DJs, an open bar, dancers, and little extra surprises, this promises to be an event to remember. At midnight, you'll get to participate in a live countdown, complimentary champagne toast, and balloon drop. Hotel rooms in the SLS Beverly Hotel are available, so you don't have to drive home at the end of the night. Contact the hotel to book your room separately. Location: 465 S. La Cienega Blvd., Los Angeles Time: 9 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022, to 2 a.m. Jan. 1, 2023 THE COUNTDOWN 2023 Lit LA Nightclub will host a thrilling New Year's Eve party to ring in 2023. This newly remodeled Montebello venue offers two levels of entertainment. The enhanced lighting, laser light system, and 22 plasma TVs create a stunning party space that takes your evening to another level. You can party the night away on two dance floors and step outside as needed on the spacious smoking patio. The nightclub creates a chic, trendy environment that's everything you want for a New Year's Eve party. RSVP on Eventbrite for affordable $20 admission until 10 p.m. Location: 901 Via San Clemente, Montebello Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022, to 2 a.m. Jan. 1, 2023 Singles New Year's Eve Party If you don't have a partner to celebrate New Year's Eve with, head to the biggest singles event in Los Angeles for the evening. The Songbird Cafe will host a memorable night of mingling that includes a live DJ spinning hip-hop and rhythm and blues music all night. This gorgeous and groovy environment features elegant lighting, cozy seating, and a spacious bar perfect for making new friends as you ring in the new year. The Songbird Cafe focuses on craft cocktails that offer a delightful sipping experience. You'll find all your favorites, including the whiskey highball, old fashioned, Manhattan, screwdriver, and more. Modelo, 805, St. Archer, and White Claw are also on the menu. Reserve your spot for this free event on Eventbrite. Location: 900 N. Broadway, #1050, Los Angeles Time: 10 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022, to 2 a.m. Jan. 1, 2023 Los Angeles New Year's Eve Bar Crawl If you just can't settle on a single party for New Year's Eve, why not hit them all? This Los Angeles bar crawl includes more than 10 different parties at locations around the city. Sign up for the bar crawl, and you'll get a map of all the participating bars in the area. As a participant in the event, you'll enjoy exclusive drink specials everywhere you go. Select locations even offer welcome shots on arrival. The 2023 lineup is still in the works, but you can likely expect to see some repeat participants. The 2022 bar crawl included Broadway Bar, Beelman's Pub, Pattern Bar, Golden Gopher, The Reserve, and Los Angles Biergarten. You can check in anytime between 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. The bar crawls continue as long as the bars are open. Location: 830 S. Broadway, Los Angeles Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022 New Year's Eve at El Encuentro Party the evening away in vibrant style with El Encuentro at The Tango Room. The venue will transport you to an elegant space reminiscent of the 1940s, where you can dance the night away in your best attire. Dine on light bites from a buffet of desserts, cheeses, and fruits. Enjoy wine and champagne as you groove to the tunes of Latin Grammy-winner Matias Piegari. You'll have plenty of opportunities to practice your dance moves throughout this stunning event. Location: 4346 Woodman Ave., Sherman Oaks Time: 8 p.m. Dec. 31, 2022 Do you know of other New Year's Eve events happening in the El Monte area? Contact our team at Longo Toyota and let us know so we can update our listing. We want to make sure we always have the best local recommendations for our customers.

The Toyota Prius was the world's first mass-produced hybrid car, and it has only improved since 2000. The 2023 version of the Toyota Prius is the best yet, with a breathtaking array of features and options you're sure to adore. Keep in mind that details about this new model are currently limited and subject to change. Let's see what makes this 2023 hybrid so special below. A New Exterior Style 2023 Toyota Prius The Toyota Prius has traditionally been a sedan-style hybrid with the same kinds of curves and measurements that you would expect from a vehicle of its class. The 2023 Toyota Prius is set to break that mold. It's likely to be available as a coupe-style hybrid as well, although industry opinions are split as to whether this form will wait another year for release. Coupes are more compact and city-driving-friendly vehicles than sedans. Images of the 2023 Toyota Prius in both two and four-door forms have been released, so odds are that both forms will be available. Both varieties have the same general shape as Prius models from previous years, but the coupe has an altogether new look in the front. Its headlights are simultaneously extremely thin and exceptionally bright, extending from each side of its extraordinarily thin upper grille. The headlights have daytime running lights attached in a configuration that hasn't yet been seen within the industry. They wrap up and away from the headlights before turning back toward the center of the hood. The sedan version of the 2023 Prius will have a fiercer look than ever before, with a massive black grille, an intimidating and heavily angled hood, and five daytime running lights on either side of the grille. The headlight units themselves also have integrated daytime running lights, so the sedan version is sure to turn heads as it rolls out in daylight. The standard wheels are expected to be 15 inches, with 17-inch versions available. Adaptive headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and a sunroof will also be available. Hybrid Core, Transmission, and Basic Statistics The 2023 Toyota Prius has a hybrid core that's similar to that of the previous model year, but the company's experienced engineers have made it even more efficient. The most efficient trim levels are estimated to top 60 mpg, so you can expect exceptional fuel savings with the 2023 Toyota Prius. To put this into perspective, the average full-gas coupe gets between 24 mpg and 34 mpg, and the average hybrid coupe gets around 50 mpg. The 2023 Toyota Prius will have an all-electric range of around 25 miles. The gas engine side of the core will include a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. The electric side of the core will include an 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery tied to a single electric motor. The core generates 121 horsepower and a total of 105 lb-ft of torque. This combination takes the 2023 Toyota Prius from zero to 60 in 11.1 seconds. It covers a quarter mile in 18.2 seconds and has a top speed of 104 mph. All-wheel drive will also be available, allowing you to enjoy a much more responsive ride. This system requires more power to operate, so it drops the mpg rating to 49. The transmission will be continuously variable, regardless of the drivetrain type. All-New Interior Design The 2023 Prius really shines on the inside. Its cabin layout is extremely user-friendly, featuring a very large infotainment system set into the upper main console. Its infotainment center is rumored to have a particularly large vertical tablet layout. The infotainment system will certainly feature Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay programming. Odds are the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features will be wireless for 2023. The redesigned cabin of the 2023 Prius will minimize noise pollution from the outside as much as possible. The engine and all other exterior noise will barely be noticeable, even when the four-cylinder engine is at full tilt. One of the most consumer-criticized aspects of previous Prius models will be altered for 2023. The pillars at the four corners of the cabin will be considerably thinner to maximize the driver's field of view. A height-adjustable driver's seat, a cargo cover, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated seats, SofTex simulated leather upholstery, a heated SofTex-wrapped steering wheel, SofTex door trim, a GPS navigation system, a head-up display, and an 11.6-inch touch screen are all set to be available for the 2023 Prius. SofTex is a heat-resistant thermoplastic polyurethane upholstery. Its inclusion in so many aspects of the 2023 Prius means it'll have a far cooler cabin in direct sunlight than its competitors with standard leather upholstery. And if you’re a music lover, you’ll adore this Prius' 10-speaker premium JBL sound system. Extensive High-Tech Safety Systems The 2023 Prius is set to be the safest version yet. It'll include traditional safety features, such as a backup camera, first-row dual-stage airbags, a low-pressure tire warning system, and electronic stability controls. Its more high-tech or uncommon safety features include second-row dual-stage airbags, knee airbags, a driver monitoring and alert system, forward and rear collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking, lane-tracing assist, and the Toyota Safety Sense cluster of safety systems. The Toyota Safety Sense safety feature cluster includes a pedestrian detection system, dynamic radar cruise control, lane departure alert, automatic high beam headlights, road sign recognition assistance, and proactive driving assistance. Dynamic radar cruise control is a cut above standard cruise control. It uses active radar scanning to determine how to moderate speed for maximum road safety. The proactive driving assistance system uses a combination of a forward camera unit and the radar system to provide steering and braking support as needed to help you stay in your lane. Find out more about this incredible Prius model at Longo Toyota in El Monte, California. Our experienced and professional staff will gladly answer any questions you may have about the 2023 Toyota Prius. Feel free to reach out and set up an appointment if you're considering ordering a 2023 Prius. We'll be happy to help you customize it to suit your needs.

The 2023 Toyota Crown combines sedan style with the cut of a sports car yet appears to hold SUV ancestry, as shown in its grand, imposing appearance and elevated seating. From all outward appearances, the Crown is a new addition to Toyota's lineup, at least in North America. Although the Crown line of automobiles was initially available in 1972, it has been conspicuously absent for several decades. So, while this may make this new model seem entirely different, it's both a comeback for an innovative new sedan and a replacement for the position previously occupied in the Toyota range by the discontinued Avalon. The Crown is available in three trim levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum. All trims have all-wheel drive as standard. In addition, while all three come with standard hybrid power, there are slight differences in the engines offered for the XLE and Limited trims. This article will take you through the different options available and give you a rundown on the performance of this automobile to give you a good idea of what to expect from this new entrant to the Toyota line, available at Longo Toyota of El Monte, California. Engine and Powertrain 2023 Toyota Crown Let’s start at the heart of the car — the engine. For the XLE and Limited trims, the 2023 Toyota Crown has a pair of conventional hybrid powertrains, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine combined with three electric motors and a sophisticated addition of the continuously variable automatic transmission. The Platinum trim offers a hybrid max powertrain, a 2.4-liter cylinder, an electric motor, and a complete power delivery of 340 horsepower. All the models offer a hybrid powertrain, but only the top-end Platinum model is available with the hybrid max powertrain. This 2.4-liter engine pairs with a rear-axle electric motor to produce 340 horsepower. It also uses a six-speed automatic transmission. The XLE and Limited trims go from zero to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, whereas the more powerful Platinum engine can manage it in 5.7 seconds. Each trim's engine is reasonably efficient. The basic powertrain, available on the XLE and the Limited editions, will achieve approximately 42 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway. The hybrid max powertrain for the Platinum model offers roughly 29 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on highways. The hybrid max also always operates in all-wheel drive, with 30% of the torque primarily distributed to the rear wheels. Overall, the car is more sedan than SUV in the engine department, giving you efficiency and style in the cities and on freeways. Interior The Crown’s interior is salubrious, with aluminum metallic trim marking the black plastic dashboard. While the interior is broadly similar across the different trims, the XLE has black woven fabric seats. In contrast, the Limited and Panoramic trims offer a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and leather upholstery in black or black with chestnut. The Limited and the Platinum models come with a moonroof, with the latter trim having a Bird's Eye View Camera system that gives you a panoramic overhead view of the car. The Limited can also provide this system through the optional Advanced Tech additions. The elevated position of the driver and passengers is an advantage, but it includes the drawback that it might lead to a lower level of headroom for taller passengers. All trims have heated seats as standard and dual-zone climate control. Legroom is adequate for front and rear seats, at 42.1 inches for the front passengers and 38.9 inches for the rear. The headroom is 38.2 inches and 37.5 inches for the front and rear, respectively, which is quite adequate compared to other cars in its class. The trunk offers 15.2 cubic feet of storage, a reasonable amount for a sedan, and the rear seats fold for extra cargo space. All trims feature the 12.3-inch infotainment touch screen as standard, with the Toyota interface: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone connections. These connect to a second 12.3-inch display with digital gauges for the driver. In addition, a wireless smartphone charging pad, USB-C ports, and onboard Wi-Fi are standard. For the XLE trim, there is a basic six-speaker stereo, upgraded to an 11-speaker JBL stereo for the Limited and Platinum editions. You have a high-tech, effective set of safety and support systems in all trims, including emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlamps. Exterior As shown, this car falls somewhere between a sedan and an SUV, with added elegance and grandeur. The body forms a sharp, fastback sedan shape, and the cladding around the wheel and the lower body suggest an SUV. Essentially, the aim is to give you the benefits you can get from an SUV in traffic while offering you the smooth handling of a sedan. Overall, the look is stylish on all the trims. There's a high shoulder line and tall roof, with a wide grille on the nose that adds to the imposing impression and grandeur. Two-tone paint is available for all trims. The XLE and the Limited models have 19-inch alloy wheels, but 21 inches are optional for the Limited trim and come standard on the Platinum. Hidden extras add to its look — such as the chassis holding MacPherson struts in the front with multi-linked rear suspension in the rear. The hybrid max also offers thicker anti-roll bars than the XLE, and adaptive variable suspension is available on the Platinum model, allowing the car to float over the road and ensuring a smoother ride. Despite being a new entrant into the Toyota line, this 2023 Crown impresses and looks like it has real staying power. The best way to experience this automobile in all its newly produced glory is to see it up close, and you can best do this by reaching out to our dealership at Longo Toyota of El Monte.

If there's one thing El Monte, California, has, it's a wide range of options when it comes to diners, restaurants, and pubs. Here at Longo Toyota, we've curated a list of great places to eat in our city, so you don't have to. Please note that it's almost impossible to list all the places serving delicious and mouth-watering dishes, so we encourage you to keep trying new places. Annia's Kitchen Image by ray_explores is licensed with CC BY 2.0 For many, Annia's Kitchen is the go-to Mexican restaurant in the city. It serves both authentic Mexican and American food in an open space where customers can see planes come and go. Once there, you'll realize that despite seeming like a hidden gem, Annia's Kitchen is loved among its customers, and the place is never empty. Customer service is excellent, as the restaurant takes pride in serving great food and giving customers an overall positive experience. The menu is quite varied; for appetizers, there are onion rings, cheese quesadillas, mozzarella cheese sticks, chicken tenders, and chili cheese fries. The salad options include the famous chicken Caesar, fiesta salad, taco salad, California cod, and the chef's salad. For dinner specialties, it offers liver and onions, mushroom steak, chuckwagon, meatloaf dinner, peppered steak, and sirloin steak and shrimp. Traditional Mexican specialties include carne asada a la tampiquena, carnitas dinner, chile verde dinner, fish filet, and shrimp. Lastly, some of the dessert options offered include ice cream, apple pie, cheesecake, and pudding. The Derby Perfect for special occasions, The Derby is an award-winning upscale dining establishment that has been around since 1922, making it one of the oldest and leading steakhouses in the area. It all started when athlete George Woolf purchased The Derby to have a place where he could reflect on his fruitful career and create a gathering space for jockeys and race fans. As you can conclude, the restaurant was a total success, and after all these years, it has maintained its reputation and status. Regarding menus, the restaurant features three different ones: dinner, lounge, and happy hour menus. The dinner one includes the starting gate (crab cakes, ahi wontons, crispy Brussel sprouts, filet-wrapped asparagus, bacon-wrapped dates, and Cajun shrimp), soup and salad options (French onion soup, soup du jour, Debby iceberg wedge, and Caesar, Cobb, and House salads), pasta dishes, over five different types of steaks, fish, and side dishes. The lounge menu features more standard options, such as bacon cheeseburgers, steak sandwiches, tacos, and prime-loaded potatoes. The happy hour menu, as its name explains, are appetizers that mix well with alcoholic drinks, with some available happy hour appetizers including calamari, shrimp cocktail, and Cajun shrimp. NORMS What initially was a coffee shop is now the perfect place to take your family and enjoy delicious American dishes in a friendly and inviting environment. NORMS provides customers with a casual yet excellent dining experience, which makes it perfect for a Sunday out. What's more, this diner is open 24/7 and has a breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu available all day long. Breakfast options include three different types of omelets (melting pot, the classic, and the veggie omelet) served with fresh fruit or golden hash browns, your choice of toast, and either an English muffin, biscuit and gravy, or two buttermilk hotcakes. NORMS doesn't charge for its sugar-free syrup or egg whites on egg dishes, and you can get fresh avocado and jalapeno servings for a small fee. For lunch, dinner, and entrees, it offers five different types of steak and eggs, special breakfast (like the Gobble Gobble Bigger Better Breakfast and the Sirloin Steak Bigger Better Breakfast), burritos, sandwiches, chicken tenders, fries, mozzarella cheese sticks, six types of burgers, seafood, pasta, and meatloaf. NORMS also offers a wide range of desserts, including chocolate fudge cake and classic cheesecake. Pollo Mania Pollo Mania is a family-owned and operated restaurant that offers Peruvian-style chicken and cuisine. It has been operating for over 20 years, and its story began when the Peruvian-native owners wanted to give the world a taste of their cuisine, so they opened the restaurant. Something worth mentioning is that despite its name implying that it's a chicken-only restaurant, it has a varied menu. For beef lovers, Pollo Mania has lomo saltado in different presentations (served with rice, in a burrito, or tallarines), and for those looking to try all the Peruvian dishes, it has soups (chicken soup and aguadito de pollo), beans, and salads. Additionally, you can enjoy the woodfire rotisserie chicken or chicken sandwiches, anticuchos, burritos, and rice bowls. The drink and dessert options are cuernitos, lucuma ice cream, mini alfajor, pionono, chicha, inca kola, and maracuya. Havana Club Restaurant & Bar Opened in 1998, the Havana Club Restaurant & Bar has been the go-to place for people who love Cuban cuisine. The founder, Chef Ruben Valenzuela, learned the art of making authentic Cuban dishes from the number one Cuban restaurant in downtown Los Angeles — El Colmao. After that, he passed on the knowledge to the other chefs, so the restaurant could become what it is now. Some menu options are stuffed beef potato, beef pie, plantain chips, Cuban-style tamal, fried pork skin with cassava, different types of sandwiches, shrimp and chicken salads, soups, top sirloin steak, breaded chicken steak, chicken in cherry wine sauce, seafood, and fries. Some drinks and desserts available are tropical shakes (mango, guanabana, banana, and mamey), papaya chunks in syrup with cheese, guava shells and cheese, and homemade flan. There you have it, our list of recommended places to eat in El Monte, California — we hope we made justice to these amazing places. If you've already been to any of these restaurants, please tell us how it went. We'd like to remind you that at Longo Toyota, we're committed to improving our community, so if you ever need a trusted dealership, nothing will make us happier than having you as a customer. For more information, please get in touch with a member of our team.

A certification from Toyota itself can be a big selling point when buying a used Toyota. Toyota puts its certified stamp of approval on used vehicles that meet certain age, mileage, and inspection requirements. Whether you're looking for a late-model used Toyota or a certified pre-owned Toyota, Longo Toyota has the selection and the pricing to fit your needs. A certification helps you get the peace of mind that comes with knowing your vehicle has been through a rigorous inspection process and comes with an extended warranty. How a Car Gets Toyota Certified 2023 Toyota 4Runner To become Toyota certified, there are a few guidelines that a car must meet. These include: Newer Than Six Model Years Old A car older than six model years isn't eligible for certification because it's more likely to have outdated safety features, worn-out parts, and outdated technology. This ensures that a car is relatively new and may not require as many repairs later. It also helps protect the resale value of the vehicle. A car with the latest safety features, original parts, and technology can offer you many years of trouble-free driving and retain its value better. A Clear CARFAX Vehicle History Report CARFAX is a national vehicle history reporting service. It keeps track of a vehicle's maintenance, accidents, and other important information. This report is one of the first things our team looks at when considering a car for certification, as it gives us a complete picture of the car's history. To be certified, a car must have a clean CARFAX report. This means that the vehicle has never been in a major accident, has never had significant bodywork or paintwork, has never undergone reconstruction, and has no outstanding recalls. An Odometer Reading of Less Than 85,000 Miles Odometer readings are another vital factor our team looks at when certifying a car. It shows how much wear and tear the car has undergone over its lifetime and helps us gauge its overall condition. An odometer reading of 85,000 miles or less is ideal for certification because it means the previous owner didn't drive the car too much. It provides you with peace of mind knowing your vehicle isn't too old and its parts are less likely to fail and need replacing. Pass a Rigorous 160-Point Quality Assurance Inspection Our team of expert technicians then conducts a thorough 160-point quality assurance inspection. This comprehensive inspection covers everything from the car's engine and drivetrain to its interior and exterior condition. A car must pass this inspection completely to get certified. This means the vehicle is in good working order, and no cosmetic damage may affect the car's value or safety. Benefits of Toyota Certification A Toyota certification can result in many benefits with your purchase. These benefits include: Extended Warranty You automatically get an extended warranty when you buy a Toyota-certified car. This bumper-to-bumper warranty covers your vehicle for up to 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This warranty covers the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and several other aspects. If you experience any issues during the warranty period, you can bring your car to Longo Toyota for repairs at no cost to you. Powertrain Coverage for up to Seven Years or 100,000 Miles Toyota-certified cars also have powertrain coverage besides the bumper-to-bumper warranty. This warranty covers the car's engine, transmission, and drivetrain for up to seven years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Longo Toyota can make the repairs for free and with no deductible if anything goes wrong with your car's powertrain during the warranty period. One Year of Roadside Assistance In the event of a flat tire, the need for a jumpstart, or if you run out of gas, Toyota can help. As a Toyota-certified customer, you get one year of complimentary roadside assistance. This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is valid for one year from your purchase and covers you nationwide. Reviewed CARFAX Vehicle History Report When you purchase a Toyota Certified Used Vehicle, Longo Toyota provides you with a free CARFAX vehicle history report, which includes the car's maintenance history, accidents, and damage. The report is valuable in determining whether a car is right for you by providing complete transparency. 160-Point Inspection All Toyota Certified Used Vehicles come with a 160-point quality assurance inspection. It's beneficial to know that a certified car has undergone a thorough inspection by our team of expert technicians and passed the test. This way, you can feel confident that your vehicle is in good condition and can last many years. Standard New Car Financing Rates Toyota-certified cars come with standard new car financing rates that are among the lowest in the industry. These low rates can help you finance your vehicle and keep your monthly payments down. It also allows you to take advantage of any current incentives that may be available. Warranty Honored at Toyota Dealerships Nationwide If you're ever traveling and have a problem with your car, you can take it to over 1,400 Toyota dealerships across the U.S. and Canada. These dealerships honor your car's warranty, so you can get the repairs you need without worry and get back on the road. You'll receive the right parts, the right service, and the security that comes with knowing your car is covered. Trouble-Free Handling When you purchase a car, there's much paperwork involved. We simplify the process by taking care of all the paperwork. This includes the transfer of your car's title and registration. We'll also take care of any outstanding recalls or service bulletins. Trade-Ins Accepted You can trade in a Toyota-certified car at any Toyota dealership. We'll even help you find the right dealership if you're unsure where to go. This process ensures you get the best value for your car and can put that value towards purchasing your new car and saving you money. Explore Toyota-Certified Vehicles A Toyota-certified car is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, reliable, and affordable car. With a comprehensive warranty, roadside assistance, and a CARFAX vehicle history report, you can be confident that your car will be there for you when you need it. If you're in the market for a used car, Longo Toyota's selection of Toyota Certified Used Vehicles is the place to start your search. With our large inventory and competitive prices, we're sure to have the perfect car for you. So, contact us today for more information.

Christmas is a time of celebrating and gathering with family and friends to enjoy the simple things in life and share in the joy of connection. Whether you want to have some fun shopping while creating memories with your family or are excited about partying the night away with friends, El Monte has numerous festivities for you to attend. Read on to learn about Longo Toyota's suggestions for the top local Christmas events in El Monte, California. Hitch Cocktails Image by alans 1948 is licensed with CC BY 2.0 If you're looking for some cerebral entertainment or enjoy getting a little scared, consider Hitch Cocktails. This improvised thriller and drinking game event is a phenomenal way to get to know your newest love interest or spend the evening sharing laughs with a group of your thriller-loving friends. The full-length live event channels the likes of Alfred Hitchcock to harness your attention and have you at the edge of your seat. A fully-stocked on-stage bar makes it even more exciting, as actors must take a drink any time they are offered one and finish it before the end of the scene. Watching the night unfold is full of impromptu entertainment. A Day in LA Tours No matter what time of year you visit, you can have a great time taking a tour of El Monte, California. However, the Christmas season lends a unique charm to this city that's hard to find during other seasons. A Day in LA Tours invites participants on an informative and impressive tour of some of the gorgeous Hollywood homes. The narrated tour, directed by a well-informed and experienced guide, takes you to the famed homes of some of the biggest stars, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Johnny Depp, and Elvis Presley. You'll also see some great landmarks, including the Hollywood sign, Rodeo Drive, Griffith Park, and the Sunset Strip. With its storied history and the fun facts provided by your tour guide, this experience is one to remember. You'll find Hollywood Value Tours at 7038 Hollywood Boulevard. To learn about tour prices and special group discounts, call 323-219-9560. The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a phenomenal location to visit any time of year. However, during the winter months, you'll find a wide selection of events sure to keep you and your loved ones entertained. If you're interested in yoga or consider yourself a yoga master, take advantage of the available weekly yoga classes. You can select from Yoga in the Morning, typically held on Saturdays, or Yoga in the Garden, a relaxing experience often held during the evening hours on a weekday. If you need to unwind after the busy holiday, consider participating in the Winter Nature Camp. You can take part in this fun family activity during the last week of December or the first week of January. The Nature Camp invites you to bring your children to join in inspiring winter-themed projects and garden adventures. These activities are geared toward children, as they focus on science, art, and culinary knowledge. Using the season as inspiration, your children will love learning about vegetation that thrives in cooler climates. Each week features a different topic, so be sure to check the schedule to find which one is better for your family. The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is at 301 North Baldwin Avenue in Arcadia. For questions and information about the Winter Nature Camp, or to register, call Brooke Applegate at 626-821-5897 or email brooke.applegate@arboretum.org. For general information about the arboretum, call 626-821-3222. Domingo Social-Christmas Luncheon Consider the Domingo Social Christmas Luncheon on December 4 at the Club Cubano Del Valle San Gabriel for a little spice in your Christmas festivities. The club's purpose is to keep families together and preserve Cuban culture. Regularly hosting potlucks, picnics, and barbecues with members and non-members alike, the club is an important aspect of the community. The annual Christmas celebration features fun and bright holiday decor, wonderful red table linens, and delicious food. You don't need to worry about planning a menu or doing the dishes because it's prepared and catered just for the event. It's a great family event where you can sit together at a table, enjoy meaningful conversation, and share a meal. The Club Cubano Del Valle San Gabriel is at 10960 Lower Azusa Road in El Monte. While club membership prices begin at $12.50 per month for an individual or $15 a month for a family, you can call for more information about annual or event discounts. To learn more about the Christmas Luncheon, email cubanclubsgv@gmail.com. Santa Claus Is Coming to Los Alamitos On November 19, welcome Santa to Los Alamitos. This fun family event is a great opportunity to take some festive family photos. Bring the kids for an interactive time with Santa and get a package of five digital photos to share on social media or print out and adorn your walls. Use the opportunity to do some good for the community and participate in Toys for Tots, hosted by the United States Marine Corps. Other guests include EverDream Events Corp., Sparkle and Shine Nails, and more. Tickets for this event and meet and greet with Santa start at $155. The event will be held at the American Legion Hall Post 716 at 3252 Florista Avenue in Los Alamitos from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 714-785-0727 or visit the website www.ocstudiosbylizette.com. So, there you have it. We here at Longo Toyota have enjoyed sharing our list of the top local Christmas events you don't want to miss in El Monte. Whether you're looking for a fun family evening or want an exciting and different date night idea, we hope you'll consider one of these options. What did you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite annual Christmas event? If so, please leave us a message sharing your thoughts, and we'll be happy to check out your ideas. You might find your suggestion featured on our list in the future.

Toyota is expanding its lineup with the addition of a 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid, bringing high performance and fuel efficiency to an already excellent crossover SUV option. The gas model of the 2022 Corolla Cross was introduced in 2021 and is modeled after the highly popular Corolla sedan. The 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid will use the fifth-generation Toyota hybrid system with increased efficiency and performance capabilities. If you've been waiting for your favorite Toyota to become a hybrid, check out the Corolla Cross Hybrid. Here are the much-anticipated details of the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. Trims Available 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid is available in five trims: LE, XLE, S, SE, and XSE. The LE features 17-inch alloy wheels and roof rails, while you get 18-inch alloy wheels and fog lights on the XLE. The S also features 17-inch alloy wheels but adds privacy glass plus LED headlights and taillights. On the SE, you get privacy glass and roof rails. The XSE has 18-inch alloy wheels with premium LED lighting, including headlights, taillights, and fog lights. You can get the 2023 Corolla Cross Hybrid in four two-tone color combinations featuring a black roof, including Barcelona Red, Sonic Silver, Acidic Blast, and Blue Crush Metallic. Other color options include Wind Chill Pearl, Sonic Silver Metallic, Cypress, Barcelona Red Metallic, Jet Black Mica, and Blue Crush Metallic. Powerful Performance You can expect more power than the standard Corolla Cross, along with higher fuel efficiency with the hybrid engine. The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system that has three electric motors to deliver 194 horsepower. You can expect to go from zero to 60 mph in just eight seconds with the hybrid powertrain. The Corolla Cross Hybrid has not yet received an EPA estimate for fuel economy, but Toyota estimates that it will feature a combined rating of 37 mpg for all trims. All-wheel drive is standard on this hybrid, giving you better traction and control over various road surfaces and weather conditions. The four-wheel anti-lock braking system with power-assisted brakes helps you stop on a dime when needed. Impressive Interior Design Not much has been shared about the interior design of the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, but similar features to the Corolla Cross can be expected. The lower trims will offer keyless entry, a six-speaker audio system, satellite radio, and an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. You may also see a leather-wrapped steering wheel, push-button start, automatic climate control, multiple USB and USB-C ports, and a wireless charging pad. The XLE is rumored to feature faux-leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped shift knob, heated front seats, and a rear seat center armrest. Interior color and upholstery options include fabric-trimmed seats in light gray and black on the LE or SofTex-trimmed seats in black or Macadamia/Mocha on the XLE. The S features fabric-trimmed seats in black and gray, while the SE offers the same option with the addition of black and blue. On the XSE, you get SofTex-trimmed seats in either black or black and blue. The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid features the new Toyota Audio Multimedia system with dual Bluetooth phone connectivity. With a subscription, you’ll be able to get a Wi-Fi hotspot and SiriusXM. The system also features an HD radio and USB data, with the ability to stream music via Apple Music or Amazon Music. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid has the standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite of safety and driver-assistance features to help keep you and your passengers safer on the road. The pre-collision system with pedestrian detection can detect bicyclists and motorcyclists in some situations. It can also detect oncoming vehicles when turning or approaching an intersection, providing you with visual and audio alerts and sometimes applying the brakes to avoid a collision. You also get improved lane recognition for the lane tracing assist, which helps keep you in between the lines of your lane. The Corolla Cross also features dynamic radar cruise control to maintain a specified following distance between the Corolla Cross and the vehicle in front of you. Lane departure alert with steering assist not only alerts you using visual and audio alerts but also gently guides you back into your lane. Rear seat reminder, a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, and hill-start assist control are all standard features of the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 system. Drive more confidently, knowing that Toyota has your safety in mind. Limited Warranty You get a limited 36-month/36,000-mile new vehicle warranty that covers everything except normal wear and tear on your 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. An additional 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty also covers against perforation from corrosion with no mileage limit for 60 months. An 8-year/100,000-mile warranty covers all hybrid-related components needing repair due to defects in workmanship or materials. Your Corolla Cross Hybrid battery is covered by a 10-year/150,000-mile warranty, which is transferable to a new owner. You also get the ToyotaCare plan for factory-scheduled maintenance on your 2023 Corolla Cross for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. This is in addition to two years of Roadside Assistance from Toyota with no mileage limit. Visit Longo Toyota Today When you're ready to check out the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, contact the team at Longo Toyota. We'd love to answer any questions you may have, give you a tour of our dealership, and get you set up for a test drive in the Corolla Cross Hybrid or any other Toyota on our lot. You can find us at 3534 N. Peck Road in El Monte, California. Our sales team is available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, for your convenience. We also offer financing and service to help get you into a Toyota and keep it running for years to come. Fill out our secure online contact form or call us at 626-377-9743 to get started.

Longo Toyota is dedicated to helping you get the most from your Toyota. One way to save money on operations and repairs for your Toyota is to make sure you take action to improve your mpg. Fuel efficiency is a top concern with today's vehicles, but you can make your fuel go further with these tips on increasing your mpg. What Is MPG? Image by Michaela Pereckas is licensed with CC BY 2.0 Miles per gallon (mpg) is a measurement of the distance a vehicle can travel per gallon of fuel. Manufacturers also use mpg to determine the fuel efficiency of a vehicle, which is a measurement of how it uses its fuel. A higher mpg means better fuel efficiency. Drivers may prioritize fuel efficiency when shopping for a vehicle because it means few fill-ups at the pump and can be more cost-efficient. Understanding the fuel efficiency of your vehicle is important when determining which vehicle is best to buy, creating a travel budget, and for the daily use of your vehicle. Longo Toyota can help find a great car for you with excellent fuel efficiency. Ways To Improve Your MPG Regardless of your vehicle's mpg, there are ways to improve it and get the most out of your fuel. Following tips to boost the fuel efficiency of your Toyota can help you save money and maintain your vehicle. Maintain a Constant Speed When driving, try to keep a consistent speed if possible. This means that you don't speed up or slow down. Following the speed limit exactly will help you maintain a constant speed. This helps improve mpg because acceleration uses more fuel, so if you drive at a consistent speed on highways and throughout cities without having to accelerate constantly, you can preserve your fuel. It's easier to get better fuel efficiency on highways because there are not as many stops as there may be within city limits. When possible, it can help to travel by highway rather than through a city. Also, when driving on highways, use your Toyota's cruise control feature to help you maintain a consistent speed. Accelerate Slowly When starting your car or transitioning to a zone with a higher speed limit, accelerate your vehicle to the new speed slowly. Pressing the gas pedal hard and pushing it all the way down uses more fuel. Slow acceleration is also easier on your engine and can prolong its life because it takes less work to get up to the tire rotations per minute that a new speed requires. Increasing your vehicle speed slowly is also safe and can help you avoid accidents. The sensitivity of your gas pedal can change depending on your vehicle, so it's useful to become familiar with the amount of pressure your vehicle requires to accelerate. Be a Conscious Driver For safety, it's important to be alert and pay attention to your surroundings while driving, but being a more conscious driver can also improve your gas mileage. Being aware of what's in front and around your vehicle can help you prepare for stops and changes in the speed limit. It's also useful to be familiar with the area in which you're driving so you can anticipate periods of heavy traffic that may require you to stop frequently. Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly Tire pressure is the pounds per square inch (psi) of air pressure inside your tires. This determines how inflated your tires are. Proper inflation helps you get the fuel efficiency your vehicle is capable of because then your tires can rotate evenly and propel the vehicle forward with minimal effort. Low tire pressure can affect the miles per gallon you get and the smoothness of your ride. With a low tire, you may also experience more bumps and risk getting a flat tire. You can check your tire pressure with a gauge that presses on the air valve on each tire and provides a measurement of how much pressure is in the tire. The recommended tire pressure for your vehicle can be found on the inside of the driver's door. When it gets colder outside, you may check your tire pressure more regularly because the cold air may lower the air pressure. If the gauge says your tires have low pressure, add air using an air compressor, which you can purchase or use an air compressor, which are often located at gas stations. Combine Errands When you expect to make trips to different locations, try to plan accordingly so you can complete your errands in one trip. You can use a map app to plan the best route to take in order to make all your stops. This helps you to use less fuel and be efficient with your mileage. Reduce the Use of Your Air Conditioning Running the air conditioning in your vehicle uses fuel, as it causes the engine to work harder. By running the air less frequently, you can improve your mpg. This is especially true for shorter trips in your vehicle. In warmer weather, you may do this by rolling your windows down rather than using air conditioning. You can also park your car in the shade so that you can use less fan power to cool down the interior when you begin to drive again. Park in Covered Areas During Colder Months In the winter, try to park your car in warmer areas, such as a garage or another covered area. Doing this can allow your vehicle's engine oil and other fluids to remain thin, which is optimal for your engine, instead of the fluids thickening in the cold. Having thinner fluids to lubricate your vehicle's engine quickly allows for a more efficient start-up when you turn on your vehicle. This helps warm your vehicle's interior for your comfort, too. If you're looking for a vehicle that has top-rated mpg, stop into Longo Toyota and discuss your options. We have many vehicles that are optimized for saving you money on fuel and helping you to get on the road more often.

As the weather cools down and the holiday season approaches, Longo Toyota in El Monte, California, loves to work with various organizations in our area. Our goal through these partnerships is to highlight the unsung heroes of our community. One of our partners is Hope House. This wonderful organization works with community members who have autism, intellectual disabilities, and mental health concerns. It supports its clients and their families through various programs and services. For its clients, Hope House offers targeted behavior training, life skills training, and person-centered planning, among other services. The person-centered planning allows clients to create a personal picture of current and future goals. It also takes clients on life-skills training and other trips into the community to get them comfortable. The organization provides support for adults and children. Medical treatment is addressed as needed, and to ensure this support, residents receive annual exams, lab work, and dental work. These services are provided within 45 days of a new resident moving in. They are also provided within 45 days of a resident’s annual due date. Proper COVID-19 protocols are followed by all staff members to ensure the health and safety of the residents. An equal amount of attention and resources is provided to the family members of clients. Hope House offers therapy and respite care services, so loved ones can spend time on themselves. It can also help with writing individualized education program goals and working with families to make sure there is an equal amount of participation with their loved ones. Image by Viscious-Speed is licensed with Pixabay license Advocating for someone with special needs plays a vital role for family members, caregivers, and friends. There are opportunities to support at the local level through the school system. You can also advocate for the disabled community as a whole by keeping an eye on various bills and providing writing support for them. The holidays can be challenging for people with special needs and their caregivers. However, with some planning, families can enjoy the season. For instance, if there are concerns about reactions to specific gifts, you might send out recommendations for gifts the recipient would enjoy. You could also let people know about conversation topics to engage in and those to avoid. Thinking of ways to include the disabled in the preparations for the celebrations is also important. Perhaps they can sing a favorite song or add unique decorations to the area. Schedules are important during a busy event. A clear timeline allows party-goers of all abilities to know about and prepare for specific events. Disabled family members might be given a specific job, such as being a photographer or greeter, to get them comfortable around the event. Depending on individual needs, particular areas might be designated to allow for quiet time for people to recharge. Ensuring the room is equipped with activities and other calming influences can help in case anyone is overwhelmed during the event. Another excellent opportunity to involve everyone is using technology to the fullest. For instance, if reading a book isn’t comfortable for someone, but reading electronically makes them happy, eBooks might be used. That would allow them to participate in the festivities without feeling overwhelmed or uncomfortable. Along with providing several different tips to help the season run smoothly, the organization runs an annual toy drive. The goal is to ensure that all of their clients, especially those living in their different homes, have gifts to open during the holidays. The organization has six homes for children under the age of 18. Each property is home to children with a variety of special needs. The Hope House accommodates the largest group (15) with a variety of developmental disabilities as well as mental health and behavioral challenges. The Redstone and Halifax properties house four people each for those with autism and mental health concerns. The Holiday House and Park House are home to three people with developmental and mental health concerns. The MaryJo House is home to four children who lack hazard awareness. In addition to the properties for children, they have six properties for adults with mental health concerns and developmental disabilities. They also provide care for people living with seizures and physical disabilities. While the homes provide for the basic needs of their residents, the organization relies on the toy drive to brighten their clients’ holiday spirit. Typically, the properties need twin bedding, board games, pillows, blankets, and towels. Ideas for presents and the name and age of the person receiving them can be found on the Winter Holiday page of their website. If you want to donate a physical gift, you can take it to the Hope House office at 4215 N. Peck Road in El Monte. You can also drop off donations for the homes. If you have questions about where or when to drop off your contributions, you can call 626-747-9320. Another option for donating to the toy drive and other programs throughout the year is doing so online through the Hope House website. You can choose a general gift or specify one for a specific program. The program also accepts vehicle donations and home items, toys, and other donations. It doesn’t cost to donate your vehicle. All you need to do is set up an appointment by calling 877-999-8322. The vehicles are used to transport individuals for group and solo trips into the community or to medical appointments. Working with organizations in our community is a favorite pastime of many members of the Longo staff. We enjoy interacting with our community and greeting our neighbors. It is our pleasure to partner with the Hope House organization to ensure their residents and family members continue receiving the care they need. We also want to ensure they have an enjoyable place to call home. The staff of Longo Toyota looks forward to creating a bright holiday season for all our community members. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us.

The holiday season is a time to celebrate and make cherished memories with family and friends. It's also an excellent time of year to support the local community. Several events will take place through the end of the year, covering various interests and groups. Browse through our list below if you're someone who is looking to help organizations in the El Monte area. An Evening With Our Blue Heroes Image by Ian Schneider is licensed with Unsplash License The Arcadia Police Foundation works with the men and women of the police force to ensure they have the training and equipment they need to perform their jobs safely. The foundation also works to bridge the gap between the police force and community members. At An Evening With Our Blue Heroes, you can enjoy a gala in support of the Arcadia Police Foundation. This elegant event will take place on Saturday, November 5, 2022, in Arcadia at the Le Meridien Hotel at 130 West Huntington Avenue. If you're planning to attend the event, tickets are $150 for each person. You can also become an event sponsor, which reserves a table for ten in your name. Four sponsorship levels range from Bronze, with a $1,500 donation, to Diamond, with a $10,000 donation. It's important to note that there will be no ticket sales at the door because Le Meridien Hotel needs a head count before the event starts. The gala will be in the hotel's ballroom, so you can dance and mingle while raising money. The dress code for the evening is formal. Heartful Hands 19th Annual Toy Drive Many children look forward to receiving a gift under the tree. You can help make their wishes come true by being part of the Heartful Hands 19th Annual Toy Drive. This festive event works to benefit the Jonathan Jacques Children's Cancer Institute's Adopt-A-Family program. This program pairs community members with families of children receiving care. The outdoor toy drive will be in Long Beach on Friday, November 18, 2022, from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Vista Del Mar Hotel Maya at 700 Queensway Drive. If you want to attend, you must bring at least one gift. The focus is mainly on teenagers, but you can bring gifts for any age. Gift cards are an excellent option if you're unsure what to get. If you choose to bring any other type of gift, please don't wrap it. As you plan your outfit, keep the festive side of the season in mind. The night will include fun and socializing with a champagne bar, hors d'oeuvres, and entertainment. You can buy tickets for the toy drive or donate online. 5K Turkey Dash and 1K Trot Raise money for the South El Monte Parks and Recreation Division while you lace up your shoes and go for a run. The 2022 Turkey Dash and Trot will be on Saturday, November 19. The trot will begin at 8:30 a.m. and the Turkey Dash at 9:30 a.m. Both races will start in front of South El Monte City Hall at 1415 Santa Anita Avenue. If you want to participate, you can register online for the event or fill out the paperwork in person at the South El Monte Community Center. The fee for the event is $5 for residents with proof of residency. Racers from outside South El Monte will pay $10. Clay Shoot Benefiting Special Olympics Southern California As the calendar flips to December, you can head to Sylmar and support Special Olympics Southern California. Special Olympics is an international organization that allows athletes of all ages to compete with their peers, regardless of their disability. The organization relies heavily on volunteers and fundraisers throughout the year to support the athletes in their chosen sport. The Knights of Columbus and Law Enforcement Torch Run are teaming up to host a Clay Shoot. This exciting event will allow participants to raise money while sharpening their vision. The shoot will be in Sylmar at Moore N Moore Sporting Clays Inc. at 12651 Little Tujunga Canyon Road. The event will start at 8 a.m. Friday, December 2, 2022, and end at 2 p.m. The day will start with breakfast before the shooting begins. Each participant will receive 100 shells and have the chance to shoot 100 clay targets. A hearty lunch is on the menu to close the event. If you're looking for a unique holiday picture, a tactical Santa will be on hand to take pictures with kids and family members. A few of the many Special Olympics California athletes the event supports will also be on hand. Spirits of the Holidays Another opportunity for lending a hand in the community during the holidays is the Spirits of the Holidays benefiting the Real Way Foundation. These folks work with job seekers to improve their resumes and interview skills. They can also provide financial services and education for members of the community. The festive fundraiser will be held in Newhall at the Hart Hall Museum at 24151 Newhall Avenue on December 3, 2022. This jam-packed evening of entertainment, fun, and fundraising will take place from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The party will include food and live entertainment. Along with dinner and music, you can purchase additional beer and wine sales tickets throughout the evening. An auction and raffle will also boost the contribution for the night. If you want to become a VIP for the evening, you can enter the celebration starting at 6 p.m. If you choose this option, you'll enjoy entertainment from a private entertainer. There will also be an unlimited wine selection and craft beers to enjoy and pair with various foods before the party starts. Whether you're passionate about raising money for athletes or job seekers, there are plenty of opportunities to spend time with friends and family while supporting your favorite causes. As you fill in your social calendar for the end of the year, consider attending one of the charity events around El Monte this holiday season. Each event is unique and will let you leave knowing you've done your part to help your community.