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Although only 6.5 percent of new cars come with a manual transmission, this old-school shifter has begun to make a comeback thanks to improved performance and gains in fuel economy. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, make it easier and simpler to drive and require far less expertise. Both transmissions have advantages, so if you can't decide, here's a quick guide to help you. Initial Cost Considerations If you want to save a few extra bucks, a manual transmission is probably the way to go, although it isn't offered on all vehicles. The Toyota Yaris and Corolla come with a standard manual transmission, but an upgrade to an automatic transmission requires a trim upgrade, costing more money in the process. Performance Automatic transmission technology has come a long way over the past 10 years, offering paddle shifters and electronic shifting for a smoother ride. However, even the best automatic transmissions don't offer the same type of acceleration and speed as manual transmissions. If you're looking for blazing 0-to-60 times and a pure driving experience, there's no substitute for a stick shift. Maintenance and Repairs Because manual transmissions are a less advanced technology than automatic transmissions, they're usually far cheaper to repair and maintain. Automatic transmissions use much more sophisticated components to provide a more natural shift, yet the more advanced electronics and circuitry also require heftier repair bills. Although automatic transmissions are the norm in the American automotive industry, manual shifts give another flexible option that you may never have considered.   Image via Flickr by ** RCB **

With a population of 68,000, Dothan is a delightful little city home to a bustling cultural, nightlife, and restaurant scene. Throughout the city there are tons of places to get some great grub, but breakfast is perhaps the most popular. If you're looking to try a new breakfast spot in Dothan, make sure to drop by a few of these local hot spots. Thelma's Kitchen Located in an unassuming building at 200 E. Powell St., Thelma's Kitchen is where breakfast meets traditional Southern cuisine. The staple item is chicken and waffles. On this dish, three crisp Belgian waffles come topped with a pad of butter and syrup with crispy fried chicken wings on the side. If you're not in the mood for that, there are mouthwatering pancakes, a spicy 10-inch Georgia country sausage, home fries, and biscuits and gravy. To top it off, nearly every item is only $4 to $7, making it one of the best values around town. Dixie Curb Market One part convenience store, one part market, and one part walk-up counter restaurant, Dixie Curb Market is a unique spot with an unbeatable atmosphere and even better food. There are two standout breakfast items here: the Whit and the Biz. Named after some of the regulars, these entrées have traditional breakfast items such as bacon, sausage, French toast, and eggs, yet there's something about Dixie that makes it a notch above the rest. You can find Dixie Curb Market at 312 E Powell St. No matter which of these two spots you choose, you're bound to have an amazing meal that'll keep you coming back again and again.   Image via Flickr by RichardBH

The year 2017 is huge for the Corolla as it celebrates its 50th year and ushers in a new version of the best-selling vehicle. The all-new Corolla iM is somewhat of a refugee, as it switches from the former Scion brand to the Toyota nameplate, and the regular Corolla comes with some new updates. So, what's the difference between the two? Here's a guide to help you along. Styling and Space The most apparent difference between the Corolla and Corolla iM is their body shape and style. The Corolla remains a compact four-door sedan, while the Corolla iM is a sporty four-door hatchback. With the added length to the rear-end, the Corolla iM hauls up to 20 cubic feet of cargo, while the Corolla offers only 13 cubic feet. However, both comfortably seat up to five adults. Some drivers will love the extra space, while others may just love the look of one over the other. Safety Features Both Corolla models come with impressive active safety features, yet there's a slight difference between them. The Corolla iM receives Toyota Safety Sense C, while the Corolla gets Toyota Safety Sense P. Both are remarkable active safety systems with features such as a pre-collision system, auto high beams, and lane departure alert. However, the Corolla adds a pedestrian detection system, which finds pedestrians in the road and brakes accordingly. Because both of these models have outstanding amenities and unbeatable styling, it's difficult to choose which one to take home. If that's the case, there's no harm in taking them out for a quick test drive. Either way, you win.   Image via Flickr by RL GNZLZ

The year 2017 ushers in a new era for Toyota's cute, attractive, yet efficient Yaris compact. It gets a little brother. This year, the Yaris iA makes its way to showrooms as a leftover from the now defunct Scion lineup, but don't let that fool you. With stellar standard features, the Yaris iA is every bit as impressive as its older sibling. If you were wondering what the differences are, just read on. The Body The main difference between the Yaris and Yaris iA is the body style. Both are compact, yet the Yaris comes solely as a hatchback, and the Yaris iA as a four-door sedan. However, the amount of space is negligible. The Yaris iA offers 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space, while the Yaris has a bit more with 15.6 cubic feet. Both can fit up to five passengers, so there's no distinct difference outside of aesthetics. Fuel Economy Whether you buy the Yaris or Yaris iA, you're guaranteed to get exceptional fuel economy. Under the hood, both carry a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, but the Yaris has a four-speed automatic transmission while the Yaris iA sports a six-speed automatic. With the Yaris' powertrain, expect to get 36 miles per gallon mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in the city. The Yaris iA boasts an even more impressive mileage with a total of 40 mpg on the highway and 32 mpg in the city. Regardless of which you choose, you'll have some of the best efficiency available. When it comes down to selecting one or the other, there's no way to go wrong. Both have awesome features, so chances are it'll probably come down to your style and taste in appearance.   Image via Flickr by ltsc1980

With the weekend finally arriving, you might be feeling that moment of joy and dread many parents experience when they realize they have nothing planned for the little ones. If you live in or near Dothan, Alabama, rest easy. Here are just a few of the family-friendly options in the area. Fun Zone Skate Center The Fun Zone Skate Center on Westgate Parkway in Dothan offers plenty to do for the family and the kid in you. Laser tag, bumper cars, a bounce house for little ones, and a roller skating rink are just a few of the options to help you and your kids spend an active Saturday together as a family. Prices range from $9 to $25 per person depending on whether you are interested in skating, rides, or laser tag. Landmark Park If outdoor quality time fits the bill and season, take a stroll in Landmark Park along Highway 431 North. In addition to trails and a picnic area, the kids can explore an 1890s preserved farmstead and an awe-inspiring planetarium. The park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Children ages two and under enter for free, and pricing for kids and adults is just $3 or $4 depending on age. Dothan Area Botanical Garden This 50-acre botanical garden features manicured gardens and traditional floral displays as well as a working vegetable garden. The holiday Gardens Aglow event includes lighted features and hot chocolate with Santa, and the Spring Plant Sale draws a large crowd each year. With so many options in mind, you and your family are sure to love the best of what Dothan has to offer.   Image via Flickr by sgtjoebear

As any local knows, Alabama boasts some of the best fishing spots in the South. The Dothan area has two great locations that any seasoned angler will appreciate. Lake Tholocco Of the six different lakes around Fort Rucker, Lake Tholocco is perhaps the most popular. The lake is about 40 minutes from town. It offers two fishing piers, one on West Beach and one on East Beach, and you can also fish from the shore. Some of the finds here include largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie. This lake allows night fishing. So long as it's properly lit, you can even take a boat out at night. Boaters here must complete a safety course, and anyone 16 and older must have a state fishing license and a fishing permit. Lake George W. Andrews Another popular spot, this Georgia lake is a short 30-minute drive from Dothan. While fish are more scarce here, it's the size of the fish that draws people in. Largemouth bass around 7 pounds are common, and they've been known to go over 10 pounds. Bluegill and catfish can be found here as well. Since it's a narrow body of water, and popular among pleasure boaters and water-skiers, anglers should avoid the high-traffic hours and stick to morning or late afternoon fishing. Weekends can get pretty crowded as well. Fishing licenses are required for those 16 and up, and out-of-staters pay significantly more than Georgia residents, so you may want to look into fishing spots on the Alabama side of the lake. Fishing has it all, from relaxation and quiet time to excitement and thrills. Grab those poles, put up that "Gone Fishin'" sign, and hit one of these Dothan-area hotspots today! Image via Flickr by davejdoe

If you live in Alabama, boating is in your blood. Whether you enjoy sportfishing on Lake Eufala or spending your summers down on the gulf in a large cabin cruiser, you'll want to consider these Toyota models. Toyota Sequoia This large size SUV sits atop a Toyota Tundra frame and has an exceptional 5-liter V8 engine under the hood. The 2017 model can handle towing well over 7,000 pounds and up to 7,400 pounds, depending on which model you select and whether you choose two-wheel or all-wheel drive. If seating is a concern, the Sequoia may be the better bet. It can comfortably seat up to eight while still handling the heavy-duty loads you'd expect from a V8 pickup like the Tundra. An integrated backup camera is available in the SR5 model and comes standard in the Limited and Platinum trims, making it a little easier to hitch your boat after a long day. Toyota Tacoma The 2017 Tacoma is a midsize pickup with a standard 4-cylinder engine in the lower trims, but a 278-horsepower V6 option is available in all trim levels and comes standard once you hit the mid-level TRD Sport edition. One feature boaters will appreciate is the composite-lined truckbed, which won't rust from exposure to salty gulf water. The Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds. That puts it well within the mark of most recreational boats in the gulf. Whether you need the seating and versatility of a Sequoia or a pickup that can comfortably tow your summer getaway cruiser, Toyota has you covered.   Image via Flickr by dibaer

Living in Dothan, Alabama, offers the best of both worlds. You can reach Mobile or the Florida coast in a few hours, but we retain much of the small-town feel and civilities of a less crowded city. Some favorite annual traditions in Dothan remind us of the close-knit town we once were and are proud to remember. Join other Dothan locals or take a drive down to see our charming city for these fall events. National Peanut Festival As the event of the year in Dothan, the National Peanut Festival draws visitors from out of state each year as we celebrate the peanut harvest season. This year's event will run from Friday, Nov. 4, through Sunday, Nov. 13. With two back-to-back weekends, you're sure to find time to check out the craft competitions, recipe contests, livestock shows, carnival rides, Miss Peanut Beauty Pageant, and music that make this event the biggest celebration in South Alabama. Just be sure to check the hours before leaving home since opening hours vary. Tickets are $7 at the gate, and children ages five and under enter for free. Dothan Cultural Arts Center Fall Choral and Theatre Festival Each fall, local musical and theatrical talent from the Wiregrass region gather at the Dothan Fall Choral and Theatre Festival. From Nov. 6 through Nov. 9, the Southeast Alabama Community Theatre and local youth will showcase their creative talents. The Cultural Arts Center proudly hosts six arts-related organizations in the Wiregrass region, and each will be performing during this year's festival. There are theatre and choral competitions as well as general performances to enjoy. Be sure to come out and revel in the fall festival season in Dothan!   Image via Flickr by skoglund1957

Dothan, Alabama, is a small city in the southeastern part of the state, and is commonly known as the Peanut Capital of the World since about 1/4 of the US peanut crop is grown close by. If you are passing through Dothan, here are some of the top things to do. Peanuts Around Town If you look around town you'll see over 60 4 foot tall fiberglass peanuts. Download a map with all the locations, and make a day of exploring the city while you find the peanuts. They are all decorated with a different theme such as the Kiss Goodbye to Breast Cancer Peanut and the Joe Cool surfer peanut. Go to the Continental Drive-In This is a great place to catch a movie. It has four different screens and each one plays a double feature. The theater is THX certified for a high-quality drive-in experience. Take the whole family and pile into the car so you can all sit back and relax together while you watch. Visit The Dothan Area Botanical Gardens The Botanical Gardens covers 50 acres filled with nature trails and gardens to explore.  There are seasonal events you can attend or just enjoy walking through the gardens with a friend. Visit the butterfly garden, the Azalea garden, or stroll along the Fern Glade boardwalk. This is a great place for wedding pictures or family portraits. Although Dothan is a small town, it has a lot to offer. Spend the day on a hunt for peanuts and then take in a movie once the sun goes down.   Image via Flickr by andrewmalone

While it is important to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road when driving, there are some phone apps available that can make your drive easier. Here are some of the most helpful. Gas Buddy This app will help you find the cheapest gas. All you need to do is enter in the city or zip code where you are driving and it will pull up a list of local gas stations with the prices. If you post cheap gas prices on the app you can even win prizes. It will also tell you how many miles away the stations are and you can get directions. Waze This popular app helps you to find out what is going on out on the road. You can get access to current traffic conditions, maps, and live routing. This app comes in handy when you need to change your route unexpectedly or you want to find out where your Facebook friends are headed. Voice assisted navigation helps direct you so you can keep your eyes on the road. SpotHero If you have ever driven to an event in the city and spent a good part of your day looking for a parking spot, then SpotHero will help. Use this to find open parking spots, reserve it, and pay for it ahead of time so you can park hassle free. There are many apps available to make any kind of trip better. Whether you need directions, cheap gas or help navigating a new place, there is an app for it.   Image via Flickr by videren

Dothan is a small city with a lot to offer both residents and visitors. Within a short distance, there are many cultural activities to enjoy from parks to museums and theaters. Here are some of the best museums to visit and explore near Dothan. Wiregrass Museum of Art This museum was created in response to an article that said Dothan was one of the worst places to live in America. Part of the reason was because it didn't have a museum, so a local committee created the Wiregrass Museum of Art. The museum, located in the old Dothan Water and Electric building, has over 600 pieces of contemporary art. It offers both permanent and temporary exhibits from artists all around America. G.W. Carver Interpretive Museum This museum focuses on educating its visitors about Civil Rights and the contributions of Dr. Carver. It sits in what was once the Dothan bus station and features exhibits that entertain and educate. Some of the exhibits include a Social Progress Heroes Timeline, and the Black Scientists, Inventors, and Explorer. The museum also has temporary exhibits from artists across the nation and some from local artists. US Army Aviation Museum This museum in Fort Rucker, Alabama, features exhibits showcasing Army aviation. See helicopters and airplanes that show how aviation developed over the years and how the use of aviation changed including cargo transportation and troop transportation. There is also a Vietnam Memorial at the museum. Experience the small town charm of Dothan when you visit these museums and see the local sights.   Image via Flickr by cmh2315fl

Having an artistic car is not just for parades anymore. Consider the amount of time you spend in your vehicle. Some invest more waking hours behind the wheel than in their homes. Adding touches to your paint job parallels decorating your house. Additionally, it's not permanent. Another coat of paint restores a blank canvas. Choose Your Favorite Color While buying a new car is exciting, sometimes the color choices don't match your tastes. Consult a sales representative to determine if additional hues of paint can be administered if you custom paint the automobile you are considering. If not, research paint and body detail in your area. Consider Using Multiple Colors The days of feeling restricted by how many shades tint your vehicle are over. Nowadays you can highlight different parts of the car using unique colors. Ponder adding a touch of flair if you had body work done and the second coat of paint didn't quite match the first. Take advantage of the diversity of the rainbow and ride through town in a colorful beauty. Create a Design How many times have you driven down the road and been attracted by the vehicle up ahead with a logo painted on one side? Companies realized in the last decade that their logo sells, and they have added their insignia to vehicles as a form of marketing. In the same way, your wheels can advertise for you and your business. Often business men and women buy luxury cars to show prestige, but a car with a design is most likely to stay in a consumer's mind long after you've driven away. If you're tired of silver, white, black, and red, why not spruce up your auto with something different?   Image via Flickr by Sensual Shadows Photography