Ford’s F-150 lineup is a fierce competitor in the full-size pickup segment. It’s the one of the most popular trucks on the market and it’s also among the most capable. With the 2024 model year, Ford has refreshed its flagship Platinum trim with a variety of new features that put it closer to luxury vehicles than ever before. It’s the kind of upgrade that can turn this truck into an everyday driver that you want to take to the airport or to the Cowboys game with family and friends.

Our test model was the Platinum 4×4 SuperCrew with Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 rated at 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case. It’s the quickest, most powerful model in this generation of F-150s. It can tow up to 13,200 pounds and get a decent 18 mpg on the highway. More info www.fordofcolumbiacity.com/new-ford/f-150-columbia-city-in.htm

Its upscale interior is loaded with features that make this one of the most luxurious pickups on the market. Our test model was equipped with a panoramic moonroof, power-deployable running boards and a wide range of premium amenities like a power-tilt/telescoping steering wheel, memory driver seat, real wood interior trim, heated and cooled front seats and a dual pair of 110-volt, 400-watt outlets.

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On-road, the F-150 Platinum feels a bit truckish in ride and handling, but it does a decent job of reining in its worst excesses. We were able to drive it comfortably on a highway slog, and it had enough grunt for passing slow cars in small windows of opportunity.

The kitchen tools we use today have undergone tremendous evolution. From stone tools used by ancient civilizations to the high-tech gadgets of today, kitchen supplies have mirrored human progress.

1. Stone Age to Iron Age: Early humans used stone tools for cutting. With the advent of metallurgy, bronze and iron tools replaced stones. These tools were simple yet functional.
2. Medieval Era: The middle ages saw the birth of specialized tools. From wooden spoons to iron pots and pans, the kitchen became a place of innovation.
3. Renaissance & Beyond: The period of enlightenment brought with it an emphasis on design. Utensils weren’t just functional; they were beautiful. Silverware became a status symbol.
4. Industrial Revolution: Mass production meant kitchen tools became accessible to the common man. Cast iron skillets, can openers, and rolling pins were now household staples.
5. 20th Century: The invention of electricity brought a revolution in kitchen supplies. Refrigerators, mixers, blenders, and microwaves transformed the way we cook and store food.
6. 21st Century & Beyond: With technology at the forefront, today’s kitchen is smart. From AI-powered ovens to smart fridges that can order groceries, the future of kitchen supplies is as exciting as it is unpredictable.

A well-stocked kitchen is every home cook’s secret weapon. With the right tools, whipping up a delicious meal becomes a delight rather than a chore. Here are some indispensable kitchen supplies every home kitchen should have:

1. Sharp Chef’s Knife: The heart of any kitchen, a good quality chef’s knife can accomplish a variety of tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meat. Investing in a high-quality knife and maintaining its edge will make your prep work both safer and quicker.
2. Cutting Boards: Opt for a set of durable boards – one for veggies and fruits, another for raw meat, and a third for poultry or fish. This separation helps in avoiding cross-contamination.
3. Measuring Cups & Spoons: Baking or cooking, precise measurements are crucial. A set of both liquid and dry measuring tools should be on your kitchen counter.
4. Mixing Bowls: A set of mixing bowls in varying sizes are useful for prepping ingredients, tossing salads, or whisking eggs.
5. Pots & Pans: A selection of quality pots and pans, including a non-stick skillet, a deep saucepan, and a large pot for soups and pastas is fundamental.
6. Utensils: Spatulas, tongs, whisks, and spoons – having a variety of these ensures you’re prepared for any cooking task.
7. Blender or Food Processor: These devices save time on chopping, mixing, and blending, making tasks like soup preparation or smoothie-making a breeze.