For every penny that gas prices go up, Americans spend $1.25 billion more per year at the pump. No one wants to waste that kind of money. So unless you're hauling the whole ball team, [1] IT'S TIME TO UNLOAD THE OLD SUBURBAN. And you, Honda Element fella, stop smirking: You're getting only 20 mpg — and driving something even less aerodynamic.
If you're driving something that gets reasonable fuel economy, drive it reasonably. When entering a highway, [2] ACCELERATE TO 60 MPH AT ABOUT DOUBLE YOUR CAR'S TOP 0-TO-60 TIME. As Popular Mechanics proved in a battery of tests, this puts the car in its more efficient top gear quicker than the smug hyper-miler crawling up to speed... in the left lane.
[3] COAST — IN GEAR. The same tests showed that rolling in neutral requires a trickle of gas to keep the engine running but in-gear coasting does not — and that if you anticipate traffic lights and [4] DON'T COME TO A COMPLETE STOP, you can boost mpg by as much as 50 percent.
A warm engine is more efficient, so string errands together by [5] DRIVING TO THE FARTHEST DESTINATION FIRST, which will get the block heated up, then work your way home.
When it's warm out, keep cool by opening the windows, enjoying the breeze, and [6] TURNING OFF THE GAS-DRAINING A/C. At highway speeds, however, our tests showed windows-down driving creates drag. So at 60 mph or faster, roll up the windows and [7] PUT ON THE A/C.
Notice to hoarders: You don't need to lug around a case of oil, a bag of sand, or that box of antique tools you got at the garage sale, right? So [8] EMPTY THE TRUNK — less weight, better mileage. Pickup drivers, [9] REMOVE THE 300-POUND TOOLBOX FROM THE BED and, while you're at it, [10] CLOSE THE TAILGATE to create a drag-reducing air bubble. MythBusters increased the overall range of a full tank by 30 miles using this technique; the show also proved that [11] A RIGHT-TURN ONLY ROUTE increases fuel economy by 3 percent, because idling (at stoplights, for instance) wastes fuel. For that same reason, [12] AVOID TRAFFIC PINCH POINTS. Driving at speed is more fuel efficient than creeping along in low gear. And if you're not regularly carrying a bike or a kayak on that roof rack, reduce drag by [13] SLIDING OFF THE CROSSBARS or at least [14] SLIDING THE CROSSBARS ALL THE WAY BACK (making a single wing).
At the pump [15] AVOID GAS RATED E15; the "E" is for ethanol, which has about 30 percent less energy than gasoline and kills mpg. (Ethanol-free gas is rare today; you'll probably have to settle for E10.) While at the filling station, [16] INFLATE YOUR TIRES PROPERLY and check them for uneven wear, which works against you. Stickier, wider performance tires also increase road friction and sap mileage. So [17] STEER CLEAR OF TIRES MEANT FOR RACE CARS, and [18] SWITCH TO ECO-FOCUSED TIRES, which reduce rolling resistance. Also, [19] GET A TUNEUP; a smooth-running engine is more efficient.
Finally, don't overlook the obvious: Nothing saves gas like not driving at all. [20] RIDE YOUR BICYCLE to fetch that quart of milk, especially if the store is just a mile or so away.
Content provided by Popular Mechanics.
As read on: http://editorial.autos.msn.com/20-ways-to-save-gas-this-summer
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
20 ways to save gas this summer
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Buy Michigan Now Festival Returns to Northville This Weekend
Hundreds of vendors will set up shop in downtown Northville Friday to Sunday for the annual Buy Michigan Now Festival.
“The Buy Michigan Now Festival is unique because it’s a fest on a mission. In addition to providing great food, entertainment, and fun, we are dedicated to helping Michigan businesses grow. It’s going to be companies like these, each adding one or two more jobs that brings our economy back on track, and we want to help them do it,” said Lisa Diggs, the festival's founder.
The free festival highlights Michigan-based businesses and locally-produced merchandise. More than 100 vendors and merchants are scheduled to participate.
1. Family fun
The festival has always been a family-friendly weekend. This year, it will kick off on Friday with a “Family Fun Day,” which is jam-packed with fun and prizes. The “Family Fun Day” features events like:
12 p.m. – Magician Chris Clark in Town Square
1 p.m. – Meet Roary, the Detroit Lions Mascot
2 p.m. – Dancing with the DJ presented by Joe Cornell Entertainment
2:30 p.m. – Magician Chris Clark in Town Square
3 p.m. – Meet Paws, the Detroit Tigers Mascot
3 p.m. – Dancing with the DJ presented by Joe Cornell Entertainment
2. Kids Zone
The Kids Zone, presented by Tubby's Sub Shops, will be on North Center Street. The Kids Zone is home to games, arts, crafts, contests, mascots, magic and more. Parents and children are invited to enter to win prizes ranging from free ice cream to Tubby's subs to Fatheads of Detroit sports teams. The Kids Zone is open throughout the weekend:
12-5 p.m. Friday
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday
11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
3. Live music
Town Square will fill with music from local artists throughout the weekend, including Friday night concert series headliner Social Bones and Saturday’s festival headliner Mainstreet Soul.
4. Special drinks
The Michigan Wine & Beer Garden, at Town Square, gives adults 21 and over the chance to enjoy Michigan craft beers and wines offered by the Northville Chamber of Commerce during select hours. Admission to the Beer Garden is free and proceeds from beverage sales benefit the Chamber and the Buy Michigan Now campaign. The Beer Garden is open from 5-10 p.m. Friday, 2-10 p.m. Saturday and noon-3 p.m. Sunday.
Also during the festival, Buy Michigan Now volunteers will sell bottled water donated by Absopure. Proceeds will benefit Operation Kid Equip (OKE), a local nonprofit that provides school supplies for underprivileged youth in Metro Detroit. On July 10, a flood struck the OKE offices, destroying tens of thousands of dollars in donated school supplies. Water sales will help restore the losses from the water damage.
5. Street closures
Main and Center streets in downtown Northville will be closed to allow for pedestrian traffic throughout the weekend. The Buy Michigan Now Festival will run from:
12 p.m.-9 p.m. Friday
10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday
11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday
For the most up-to-date information, visit www.BuyMichiganNowFest.com.
As read on:
http://northville.patch.com/groups/business-news/p/buy-michigan-now-festival-returns-to-northville-this-weekend?ncid=newsltuspatc00000001&evar4=picks-1-post&newsRef=true
Friday, July 26, 2013
The Redesigned 2014 Indian Motorcycle
In the decades following its bankruptcy in 1953, Indian Motorcycle was the target of several companies that tried unsuccessfully to revive the storied brand, the leading motorcycle manufacturer of its time.
But now Indian has the financial muscle to make it happen. Polaris (PII), the maker of snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles and Victory motorcycles, bought Indian in 2011 and is moving at full throttle to bring it back to prominence.
Standing in the way is industry giant Harley-Davidson (HOG), a longtime Indian rival back in the day that has amassed a 57% share of the heavyweight cruiser market.
Victory was built 15 years ago as a potential alternative to Harley-Davidson but has amassed only a 5% market share, largely taking a piece out of Japanese competitors Honda (HMC), Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki. Now Indian is taking aim at the market leader, even running a television ad featuring a Harley-Davidson bike sporting a for-sale sign outside the owner’s garage.
Perhaps Indian can pick up where Victory fell short, boasting a brand new motorcycle set to debut early next month and a rich heritage that rivals the lore of Harley-Davidson.
Mike Wolfe, who co-stars alongside Frank Fritz on History Channel’s “American Pickers,” likes Indian’s chances for success in the renewed rivalry.
“Will Indian take Harley-Davidson down to its knees? No, at least not right away,” said Wolfe, a pitchman for Indian who often comes across vintage bikes on his travels across the country. “But now there’s a choice.”
Blending Heritage With Modern Engineering
Founded in 1901, Indian traces its roots to the first American motorcycle. It quickly became the top motorcycle brand, having developed the first-ever V-twin motorcycle and first electric starter. The company built a reputation among everyday bikers, racers and with the military, supplying the U.S. Army with bikes such as the Chief.
When I get one of these, I’m going to be as proud as the guy who bought one in 1948.
- Mike Wolfe, “American Pickers”
The resurrected Indian seeks to combine the styling of yesteryear with modern engineering, exemplified by the 111 cubic-inch Thunder Stroke engine that will power the all-new Chief.
“It’s a phenomenal American story with an entrepreneurial spirit,” said Steve Menneto, Vice President of Motorcycles at Polaris. “We wanted to bring that forward and blend it into what we’re doing with the brand. We want to show riders what we learned from Indian’s history.”
While its heritage is a central part of what Indian is doing, the new Chief isn’t exactly your grandfather’s motorcycle. “We’re going to build bikes into the future,” Menneto added.
Wolfe, whose Antique Archaeology stores are located in LeClaire, Iowa, and Nashville, Tenn., called what Indian is doing “a sort of a double-edged sword,” as the bike builder looks to celebrate its history while “helping people understand there’s an old Indian and a new Indian.”
Menneto compared Indian’s strategy to that of General Motors’ (GM) Chevrolet, which drew on the styling of the late-1960s Camaro when it brought the model back to showrooms for 2010.
The Thunder Stroke—bigger than Harley’s 110 cubic-inch engine—was the first piece of the 2014 Chief that Indian unveiled to kick off its full re-launch. Indian’s 2013 lineup was built around a 105 cubic-inch PowerPlus engine.
Wolfe said the folks at Indian rode the original bikes as much as possible, getting a feel for how the bikes handled, the seat position and other design elements. “They took all of that knowledge with them,” he added.
“We have six or seven styling cues from the 1940s Chief and a new powertrain with the Thunder Stroke,” Menneto said. “We wanted to blend our rich history with a high quality bike and engineering ingenuity.”
Indian’s latest creation will be revealed on Aug. 3 at the 73rd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota. And two days later, the 2014 Indian Chief will be presented to a nationwide audience on “American Pickers.” Indian is also sponsoring Bike Week on the History Channel.
“I get approached by lots of brands, but this makes a lot of sense for me. I feel like I’m knowledgeable, and I’m proud to talk about Indian,” Wolfe said, noting how viewers of his show are familiar with his affection for Indian bikes. “To the average guy, he knows I’m an Indian guy.”
Gunning for Harley-Davidson
The hardest part begins after the re-launch at Sturgis, as Indian hopes an innovative new engine can rev up sales and help the brand reclaim its position as a major player in the motorcycle world.
Victory currently accounts for most of Polaris’s on-road vehicles unit, which saw its sales jump 64% last year to $240 million. Meanwhile, Harley-Davidson has annual sales of $5.6 billion, outpacing the $3.2 billion in total sales recorded by Medina, Minnesota-based Polaris last year.
Regardless, Polaris is the type of company that Indian needed to regain its stature.
“For it to be owned by Polaris is incredible,” Wolfe said. “Other companies had the passion but not the money. They were just pushing the same product forward. Polaris had the wherewithal to launch a completely new bike.”
With a starting price of $18,999, Indian hopes riders will see the value in buying a bike powered by a 111 cubic-inch engine at that price point. Harley’s Road King is comparatively priced at $17,699 but features a 103 cubic-inch engine.
“Our first goal is to make our bikes affordable. It’s premium compared to competitors, but consumers will realize the value they’re getting. The value will come forward quickly,” Menneto said.
Indian’s 2013 Chief Classic, with the 105 cubic-inch PowerPlus engine, starts at a much higher price point at $26,499.
“They’ve made a better bike and dropped the price,” Wolfe said of the soon-to-be-unveiled Chief.
A Harley-Davidson spokesperson said the company takes all competitors seriously, especially its competitors in the U.S. Competition is good for the industry, the spokesperson added.
“No question, Harley-Davidson is an excellent company and tough competition. They’ve owned the market for heavyweight V-twin motorcycles,” Menneto commented. “Indian can be, and is, a viable choice for consumers. We’re strong competition for Harley-Davidson, hopefully for a long time, and they are also strong competition for us.”
At the heart of Indian's sales effort are independent dealers sprinkled across the U.S. and in international regions like Asia and Europe.
The company is right on schedule with bringing in dealers, Menneto said, and Indian expects to see more dealers show interest after it launches the Chief. He also noted that dealers have confidence in Polaris and its commitment to making Indian a success again.
Indian said it's on target to have between 120 and 140 U.S. dealers in place by the end of this year.
“Our plan is to have a full dealer network in the U.S. and around the world,” Menneto explained.
Indian had its eyes on a global presence right from the start, pursuing dealers in Europe, Japan, China, India and elsewhere.
The European market presents an interesting opportunity for Indian. Many of the 40,000 Indian bikes used for military service were left behind when U.S. troops left Europe after World War II, Polaris’s most recent annual report noted, so the company expects to see strong interest in the region.
“The market is still growing. It’s still not where it was before 2008, but it’s still growing,” Menneto said, speaking about the overall market for motorcycles. “People are really enthusiastic. They’re passionate. It’s a part of their life. There’s a need for choice in the marketplace, and a lot of enthusiasts are looking for a change.”
And for Wolfe, the history and ingenuity behind Indian makes it a compelling choice.
“People want to feel pride in what they own, I don’t care what it is,” said Wolfe, who has been collecting for the last 25 years. “When I get one of these, I’m going to be as proud as the guy who bought one in 1948.”
Read more: http://www.foxbusiness.com/industries/2013/07/19/indian-motorcycle-takes-aim-at-harley-davidson/#ixzz2a4IycG7W
Thursday, July 25, 2013
2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel | Video Tour by Ram Trucks’ Chief Engineer
That truck enthusiasts in certain niche markets would request more information regarding the industry-first light-duty diesel-powered pickup truck surprised exactly no one at Chrysler Group HQ. What came as a surprise was just how many people would call or write in wanting to know more about the 2014 Ram 1500 with available 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine.
Anxious to provide all interested parties with as much information as possible, the Ram Trucks brand recently produced a short video featuring Ram Trucks' Chief Engineer Mike Cairns.
In this video-part one of a two-part series-Mr. Cairns reveals as much as he can about the truck's fuel efficiency and availability, among other things. Spoiler alert: the 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel will get best-in-class fuel economy; it will be available at your closest dealer before the end of the current calendar year.
Stay tuned to The Working Blog for part two in this short video series devoted to Ram Trucks' newest light-duty option: the highly capable, highly efficient 2014 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel.
*http://blog.chryslercommercialvehicles.com/2013/07/23/2014-ram-1500-ecodiesel-video-tour-by-ram-trucks-chief-engineer/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=Facebook&utm_campaign=CSJul2413Facebook2&ism=CSJul2413Facebook2
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Make sure to check out the special events happening this starting today in Downtown Plymouth!
Visit Downtown Plymouth starting TODAY for some great activities!
Wednesday July 24
Bring your young ones to this week’s summer Music in the Park Children’s Concert Series featuring Gemini. These kid friendly concerts will be held every Wednesday at noon in Kellogg Park.
The Plymouth District Library will be holding their Brown Bag Books event at noon. They will be featuring “The Orchardist” by Amanda Coplin.
Stop by the Plymouth Library from 3:00-4:30 p.m. for some Diy Mehndi & South Asian Snacks!
Sun & Snow MeetUps: Yoga in the Park will be held at 6:30 p.m. at Kellogg Park in Downtown Plymouth. These MeetUps feature the Plymouth Yoga Room, Crossfit Lower Town, and Sport & Spine Performance Institute. RSVP to reserve your spot tomeetups@sunandsnow.com
Thursday July 25
Come Dig Into Your Family Tree at the Plymouth Library at 2:00 or 7:00 p.m.! Participants will create a beautiful family tree suitable for framing using a variety of art supplies.
If you’re looking for a movie, head to the Penn Theatre to catch a showing of “The Goonies” at either 1:00 or 7:00 p.m.!
Also stop by to listen to the Plymouth Community Band play at Kellogg Park from 7:30-9:30 p.m. These concerts are held Thursday evenings for a majority of the summer. Be sure to get there early to find a good spot to sit! Please visitwww.plymouthcommunityband.org/ for further information.
Friday July 26
“Shop Local! Shop Downtown Plymouth!” A wide variety of unique shops and other businesses will be participating in sidewalk sales this weekend. The sales will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday.
This week’s Friday Night Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Summer Music in the Air concert will be featuring “Fifty AMP Fuse” on the Hines Park Lincoln Stage in Kellogg Park at 7:00 p.m. Don’t miss the hottest show in Detroit! These are free Friday night concerts, so be sure to bring your lawn chair and come enjoy Downtown Plymouth!
Herbie Russ will be at Panache 447 from 7:30-11:00 p.m. and Potters Field + Stephen Schlaack will be at the Plymouth Coffee Bean Co. at 8:00 p.m., so come check it out!
Stay downtown awhile and listen to The 3 of Us play at Sean O’Callaghan’s at 9:30 p.m.
Saturday July 27
The Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce Farmer’s Market will be held at the Gathering Pavilion next to Kellogg Park. The Farmer’s Market takes place every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Please call (734) 453-1540 with any questions!
The History Kids’ Kamp: “A Kids’ Eye View of the Civil War” will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 155 S. Main St. Kids will spend the day recreating what life was life during the war and there will be many activities to participate in! Each child will be given a commemorative t-shirt to wear for the day, and the boys will be given the chance to “enlist” in the army. Please call (734) 455-8940 for more information.
“Shop Local! Shop Downtown Plymouth!” sidewalk sales will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 6 p.m. today downtown!
The Film Club will meet today at the Plymouth Library at 1:00 p.m. to discuss selected independent/foreign/critically acclaimed films. The Film will be viewed and then a discussion will follow. Refreshments will be provided. Please register for this program in person at the Reader’s Advisory Desk, by phone at (734) 453-0750 - press 4, or online now.
Royce Band will be playing live music at Panache 447 from 7:30 – 11:00 p.m. and The Strangers will by playing at Sean O’Callaghan’s at 9:30 p.m.
Sunday July 28
Some businesses will be open for the “Shop Local! Shop Downtown Plymouth!” sidewalk sales today with in-door sales.
Come to Panache 447 for a Sunday Plated Brunch starting at 10:30 a.m.!
Concours d’Elegance will take place today from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Inn at St. John’s (44045 Five Mile Road). The aim of Concours d’Elegance of America is to exhibit prestigious collector cars as well as offer an automotive art show, a vintage car auction, Mode du Concours and social events!
Help Sun and Snow promote a cleaner Downtown Plymouth! Grab your favorite deck, helmet, and crew of four to meet in Kellogg Park between 9:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. to help take action against waste in and around the City of Plymouth. You and your crew will be given permission to ride in Downtown Plymouth under the condition of participation in the event and following provided regulations. Sun and Snow will provide gloves, bags, and refreshments for those who help.
Finally, stop by the Penn Theatre and see this weekend’s feature “STAR TREK: INTO DARKNESS”. Tickets for all seats are $3.00. Please visit www.penntheatre.com for more information regarding dates and showtimes.
For all the latest in events in Downtown Plymouth check out the Downtown Web Site at www.downtownplymouth.org for complete information.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
Veteran's Summit
Come on out to the Yankee Air Museum Yankee Air Museum on Saturday July 27th, 2013 from 10:00 am- 4:00 pm
for a day of family fun!
Admission is FREE and Proceeds from the event help support
The Fight Continues and the Yankee Air Museum
A Day to Honor & Support Our Military Families
•Family Fun Activities
•Veteran Service Dogs
•Local Bands
•Helicopter Rides*
•Counseling Services
•Warbird Rides*
•Veteran's Service Organizations
•FREE Kids Zone Play Area
•Parachute Jumpers Sponsored by Skydive Tecumseh
•Veteran's Job Fair-Bring resume for job opportunities!
*charges apply
Schedule of Event
10:00AM-Doors Open, VSO & Job Fair open all day, Kids Fun Zone Opens
12:00PM-Parachute jump with Amputee Veterans
12:30PM-Award Ceremony
1:00PM-Live Music by "The Tom Toms"
2:30PM-Live Music by "AllDay MonDay"
4:00PM-VSO & Job Fair ends, Doors Close
Yankee Air Museum Aircraft Ride Opportunities Available!
Our B-17 "Yankee Lady" has rides at 10AM,11AM, 12PM and 1PM and our B-25 "Yankee Warrior" has rides all day.
Rides available at standard charge and made by reservation only.
Monday, July 22, 2013
The 10 Best Ways to add value to your home
Green is in, so many companies are looking for ways to reduce costs and minimize their carbon footprint. One way is to offer telecommuting options for employees. Millions of Americans work from home, and that number grows every year. This has made a home office more of a necessity than a luxury. Creating a dedicated work space not only adds value to your house, but it also makes your telecommute tax deductible. Converting an unused den, sunroom or extra bedroom is a great way to take care of business from the comfort of your home. You'll want to make sure that you have plenty of space to spread out your work load and ample cabinets for storing supplies and archival paperwork. You also need an ergonomic workstation. The rule of thumb is a 26-inch (66-centimeter) high desk and a computer keyboard situated 23 to 28 inches (58 to 71 centimeters) from your body. Your chair height should be 15 to 21 inches (38 to 53 centimeters) from the floor. If you live in an old house, make sure the electrical outlets have been updated with grounded outlets to accommodate three-pronged plugs. Phone lines and data ports are also a big plus.
Curb Appeal
If your house doesn't look appealing from the outside, chances are a potential buyer will never make it inside. According to Bankrate.com, a good first impression can add five to 10 percent to the value of your home. If the exterior color of your house is dated or fading, painting is a good place to start your improvements. Choose colors and exterior details that match the period of your house. Shutters add charm and depth, but not if they're hanging crooked or flaking paint. Paving a driveway or walkway that is in disrepair is a must, because this is what leads people to your home -- you want it to be welcoming. Attractive, manicured front-yard landscaping will also add value to your home. Drought-tolerant plants and easy-to-care-for perennials are a good option if you don't have a green thumb. And don't forget about your backyard either. Outdoor living is very popular as more people wish to commune with nature in the comfort of their own home. Sprucing up a deck or patio with attractive furniture, raised garden beds and maybe even a water feature will give you years of enjoyment and appeal to future buyers.
Add a Deck
If you think adding a sunroom is a cost-effective way to increase your home's value, nailing on a deck is truly a bargain. According to Remodeling Magazine's "Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report for 2007," more than 85 percent of your wooden deck's cost can be recouped if you sell your home, compared with 78 percent of a bathroom remodel and 68 percent of a family room addition. Ten or 20 years ago, tacking on a simple wooden structure was fine. But today's homeowners crave outdoor living space, and are looking for something a little more special than yesterday's plain planks. So if you're going to add a deck, take some time to come up with an interesting shape, and consider adding enhancements such as a built-in fire pit, benches or raised garden beds. Using higher-grade materials for the flooring and railings not only further enhances this addition, but can make it easier to maintain, too.
Add a Sunroom
Sunrooms are a bridge between your home and the outdoors, and are part of today's popular "outdoor living" trend that includes outdoor kitchens, fireplaces and upscale patios. Sunrooms are either unheated (three-season) or heated (four-season) and often include features like cathedral ceilings, skylights and tile flooring. Adding a sunroom is an affordable way to increase your home's square footage. In fact, it's typically less than half the cost of adding a standard room to your home. Even better, sunrooms are very attractive to homebuyers, especially those in colder climates; in the United States, sunrooms are most popular in the Northeast and Midwest. When adding a sunroom to your home, select a spot that's near a gathering area -- the kitchen, family room, living room or dining room -- as sunrooms typically become preferred eating spots and overflow areas when entertaining guests.
Article courtesy of: http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/5-ways-to-add-value-to-home.htm
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Cars assist worthy cause
Heritage vehicle show benefits the Wounded Warrior Project
Mother Nature smiled on the Heritage Benefit Car Show on June 8 with a temperature of 74 degrees, a light breeze and a mix of sun and clouds. Many antique and classic cars graced the grounds of the Livingston County East Complex in Genoa Township. The vendors had superb food. There were amazing door prizes, many trophies and a wide variety of auction items.Radio station B95, brought to the car show by Mary Otero, was an exciting opening to the day. Disc jockey Jared Jones followed B95 with music and announcements during the event.
An exceptional auction item was a 2002 Oldsmobile Alero, donated by Vern Brockway, owner of Regal Recycling. The automobile brought in more money than any donated item in the eight years since the car show began. The success of the event allows the Heritage Hope Foundation to donate all the proceeds to the Wounded Warrior Project, Patriot Guard and the National Guard.
Prudential Heritage Real Estate, host of the car show, thanked the people and companies for making the annual event possible.
Trophy sponsors were Gary Morris, Dick Scott Motor Mall, Champion Auto, Allstate Insurance, Crane Construction, Eddie’s Landscape Supply, Firehouse Garage Doors, Hammertime Auctions, Kovach’s Auto Service, Mr. Muffler & Brakes, State Farm Insurance, Exceptional Mortgage, Four Seasons Custom Sewing, Jamieson-Allen Agency, Liberty Title, Pro Maids and Drs. Fuhst-Wylie and Kahn.
Auction items were donated by Hagerty Insurance Company of Traverse City, Meijer, Huron Valley Financial, Liberty Title, Duke’s Pizza, Hydrovision, Big Boy in Howell, Autozone, Advance Auto Parts, Night Flight, Whistle Stop Party Store, Aldi, Patricia Paternel, Steve and Nancy Paternel, Lori Sider, Prudential Real Estate, Gary and Doris Morris, Garlock Smith Surveying, Grundy’s Ace Hardware, CD Bookkeeping, Howell MainStreet Winery, J. Christopher Salon, Tim Horton’s in Brighton, Noble Dog Shoppe & Spa, Kosin’s Glass, Cornerstone Barbershop, Diamond’s restaurant, Drs. DiStefano and Monash, Mr. B’s Rustic Tavern and Wal-Mart.
Vendors were Hog Wild BBQ, Streetside Deli, Sinclair’s Ice Cream, Smokin’ Shanty BBQ, Heart of Michigan, Richard Lim Photography, Dazzling Auto Detailing, Carolyn Gooch, pony rides and Tyson Photography.
As read on: http://www.livingstondaily.com/article/20130714/COMMUNITIES08/307140003
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
National Weather: Heat Safety Tips
Heat is one of the leading weather-related killer in the United States, resulting in hundreds of fatalities each year. In the disastrous heat wave of 1980, more than 1,250 people died. In the heat wave of 1995 more than 700 deaths in the Chicago area were attributed to heat, making this the deadliest weather event in Chicago history. In August 2003, a record heat wave in Europe claimed an estimated 50,000 lives.
North American summers are hot; most summers see heat waves in one or more parts of the United States. East of the Rockies, they tend to combine both high temperatures and high humidity, although some of the worst heat waves have been catastrophically dry.
NOAA's Watch, Warning, and Advisory Products for Extreme Heat
Each National Weather Service Forecast Office issues the following heat-related products as conditions warrant:
Excessive Heat Outlooks: : are issued when the potential exists for an excessive heat event in the next 3-7 days. An Outlook provides information to those who need considerable lead time to prepare for the event, such as public utility staff, emergency managers and public health officials. See the mean heat index and probability forecasts maps.
Excessive Heat Watches: are issued when conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next 24 to 72 hours. A Watch is used when the risk of a heat wave has increased but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain. A Watch provides enough lead time so that those who need to prepare can do so, such as cities officials who have excessive heat event mitigation plans.
Excessive Heat Warning/Advisories are issued when an excessive heat event is expected in the next 36 hours. These products are issued when an excessive heat event is occurring, is imminent, or has a very high probability of occurring. The warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life. An advisory is for less serious conditions that cause significant discomfort or inconvenience and, if caution is not taken, could lead to a threat to life.
How Forecasters Decide Whether to Issue Excessive Heat Products
How Forecasters Decide Whether to Issue Excessive Heat Products
NOAA's heat alert procedures are based mainly on Heat Index Values. The Heat Index, sometimes referred to as the apparent temperature is given in degrees Fahrenheit. The Heat Index is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature.
To find the Heat Index temperature, look at the Heat Index chart below. As an example, if the air temperature is 96°F and the relative humidity is 65%, the heat index--how hot it feels--is 121°F. The National Weather Service will initiate alert procedures when the Heat Index is expected to exceed 105°-110°F (depending on local climate) for at least 2 consecutive days.
IMPORTANT: Since heat index values were devised for shady, light wind conditions, exposure to full sunshine can increase heat index values by up to 15°F. Also, strong winds, particularly with very hot, dry air, can be extremely hazardous.
The Heat Index Chart shaded zone above 105°F (orange or red) shows a level that may cause increasingly severe heat disorders with continued exposure or physical activity.
The Hazards of Excessive Heat
Photo of man exhausted from playing tennis.During extremely hot and humid weather the body's ability to cool itself is affected. When the body heats too rapidly to cool itself properly, or when too much fluid or salt is lost through dehydration or sweating, body temperature rises and heat-related illnesses may develop.
Heat-related illnesses can range from heat cramps to heat exhaustion to more serious heat stroke. Heat stroke can result in death and requires immediate medical attention.
Factors or conditions that can make some people more susceptible to heat-related illnesses include age (older adults and young children), obesity, fever, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, prescription drug and alcohol use, and sunburn. Sunburn, caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun, can significantly retard the skin's ability to shed excess heat.
Heat-Related Illness Symptoms and First Aid
HEAT CRAMPS
Symptoms:
Painful muscle cramps and spasms usually in legs and abdomen
Heavy sweating
First Aid:
Apply firm pressure on cramping muscles or gentle massage to relieve spasm.
Give sips of water, if nausea occurs, discontinue water
HEAT EXHAUSTION
Symptoms:
Heavy sweating
Weakness
Cool, pale, clammy skin
Weak pulse
Possible muscle cramps
Dizziness
Nausea and vomiting
Fainting
Normal temperature possible
First Aid:
Move person to a cooler environment
Remove or loosen clothing
Apply cool, wet cloths
Fan or move victim to air conditioned room
Offer sips of water. If nausea occurs, discontinue water. If vomiting continues, seek immediate medical attention.
HEAT STROKE (or sunstroke)
Symptoms:
Altered mental state
Possible throbbing headache, confusion, nausea, dizziness, shallow breathing
High body temperature (106°F or higher)
Skin may be hot and dry, or patient may be sweating
Rapid pulse
Possible unconsciousness
First Aid:
Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Summon emergency medical assistance or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Delay can be fatal.
Move the victim to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned, environment
Reduce body temperature with a water mister and fan or sponging
Use fan if heat index temperatures are below the high 90s
Use extreme caution
If temperature rises again, repeat process
Do NOT give fluids
Never Leave Children, Disabled Adults or Pets in Parked Vehicles
Each year, dozens of children and untold numbers of pets left in parked vehicles die from hyperthermia. Hyperthermia is an acute condition that occurs when the body absorbs more heat than it can handle. Hyperthermia can occur even on a mild day. Studies have shown that the temperature inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level for children, pets and even adults. Leaving the windows slightly open does not significantly decrease the heating rate. The effects can be more severe on children because their bodies warm at a faster rate than adults.
How Fast Can the Sun Heat a Car?
The sun's shortwave radiation (yellow in figure below) heats objects that it strikes. For example, a dark dashboard or seat can easily reach temperatures in the range of 180 to over 200°F. These objects (e.g., dashboard, steering wheel, child seat) heat the adjacent air by conduction and convection and also give off longwave radiation (red in figure below) which is very efficient at warming the air trapped inside a vehicle.
Shown below are time lapse photos of thermometer readings in a car over a period of less than an hour. As the animation shows, in just over 2 minutes the car went from a safe temperature to an unsafe temperature of 94.3°F. This demonstration shows just how quickly a vehicle can become a death trap for a child.
The atmosphere and the windows of a car are relatively transparent to the sun’s shortwave radiation yellow in figure below) and are warmed little. This shortwave energy, however, does heat objects it strikes. For example, a dark dashboard or seat can easily reach temperatures in the range of 180°F to more than 200°F. These objects, e.g., dashboard, steering wheel, childseat, heat the adjacent air by conduction and convection and give off longwave radiation (infrared), which efficiently warms the air trapped inside a vehicle. Learn more about excessive heat and cars.
Vehicle Related Heat Deaths
Honolulu, HI, March 07, 2007: A 3-year-old girl died when the father left her in a child seat for 1.5 hours while he visited friends in a Waikiki apartment building. The outside temperature was only 81 degrees.
North Augusta, SC, April 2006: A mother left her a 15-month-old son in a car. He was in a car for 9 hours while his mom went to work. She is now serving a 20-year prison sentence.
Greenville, TX, December 01, 2012: A 6-month-old boy died after being left in a car for more than 2 hours by his mother. She was charged with murder. The temperature rose to an unseasonably warm 81 degrees on that day.
Adults are in danger too. On July 12, 2001, a man died of heat stroke after falling asleep in his car with the windows rolled up in the parking lot of a supermarket in Hinds County, MS.
Safety Tips for Concerning Children
Make sure your child's safety seat and safety belt buckles aren't too hot before securing your child in a safety restraint system, especially when your car has been parked in the heat.
Never leave your child unattended in a vehicle, even with the windows down.
Teach children not to play in, on, or around cars.
Always lock car doors and trunks--even at home--and keep keys out of children's reach.
Always make sure all children have left the car when you reach your destination. Don't leave sleeping infants in the car ever.
Safety Tips for Adults
Thermometer reads 110 degreesSlow down. Reduce, eliminate or reschedule strenuous activities until the coolest time of the day. Children, seniors and anyone with health problems should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
Dress for summer. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight.
Put less fuel on your inner fires. Foods, like meat and other proteins that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss.
Drink plenty of water, non-alcoholic and decaffeinated fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids even if you don't feel thirsty. Persons who have epilepsy or heart, kidney or liver disease, are on fluid restrictive diets or have a problem with fluid retention should consult a physician before increasing their consumption of fluids. Do not drink alcoholic beverages and limit caffeinated beverages.
During excessive heat periods, spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings markedly reduces danger from the heat. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, go to a library, store or other location with air conditioning for part of the day.
Don't get too much sun. Sunburn reduces your body's ability to dissipate heat.
Do not take salt tablets unless specified by a physician.
Preparing for and Responding to Excessive Heat Events
The Excessive Heat Events Guidebook was developed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2006, in collaboration with the National Weather Service, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Department of Homeland Security. This guidebook provides best practices for saving lives during heat waves in urban areas, and provides a menu of options that communities can use in developing their own mitigation plans.
As read on: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/os/heat/index.shtml
Monday, July 15, 2013
The Jeep Grand Cherokee wins 2013 Cars.com/USA Today Midsize SUV Challenge
CHICAGO, July 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Cars.com, the premier online resource for buying and selling new and used cars, today released the results of the 2013 Midsize SUV Challenge which put six of the most popular SUVs in the segment head-to-head in a series of tests to evaluate overall drive, features and capability. The six midsize SUVs tested were the 2013 Ford Edge, 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2014 Kia Sorento, 2013 Nissan Murano and 2013 Toyota Venza.
"A lot has changed in midsize SUVs in the last 10 years," said Patrick Olsen, Cars.com's Editor-in-Chief. "What was once a class dominated by truck-based gas guzzlers has given way almost entirely to car-based models with many of the features that made SUVs popular, but offer improved ride and handling, fuel economy and interior space."
Experts from Cars.com, USA Today, "Motorweek", and a family representing the average midsize SUV buyer tested these six vehicles for fuel efficiency, practicality, driving ability, comfort and features.
Tests included:
-- 200 miles of driving on varying roads to test each SUV for real-world
fuel economy
-- One day of round-robin driving where each expert tested each SUV on the
same route back-to-back to gather impressions
-- A day of family testing where a family of four evaluated each of the six
SUVs for comfort, family-friendly features, styling and ride quality
"After extensive testing, the Jeep Grand Cherokee took the top spot thanks to its luxurious interior, impressive multimedia system and overall driving capability," said Olsen. "The Grand Cherokee has been around for a long time, and was once considered a true, off-roading, truck-like SUV, but thanks to some serious refinement, today's incarnation of the Grand Cherokee edged out the other, very worthy, midsize SUV options available to shoppers."
For full details and results from the 2013 Cars.com/USA Today Midsize SUV Challenge, visit blogs.cars.com.
Friday, July 12, 2013
2014 Ram 1500 | Three Available Powertrains, Same Result: Incredible Capability
You may have heard the news already. Personally, we think it’s worth repeating.
In model year 2014, Ram Trucks will become the first vehicle manufacturer to offer a diesel-powered light-duty (half-ton) pickup truck. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine joins the award-winning Pentastar® V-6 and the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 as one of three available engines for the 2014 Ram 1500, creating in the process an unmatched trifecta of light-duty powertrains ready to hit the road in the next model year.
For small business owners, the benefit of having three available engines to choose from is just exactly that: choice. Because every business is different—with needs completely individualized not just to the type of work (say, lawn care) but to location, size, scope and on and on and on—every business needs to be able to customize its cache of “work tools” as much as possible. With tools like the new 2014 Ram 1500, that kind of customization is entirely possible.
Also in 2014, all three available Ram 1500 engines will be mated to the TorqueFlite® 8 eight-speed transmission, with each transmission-engine combination offering slight variations on the capability that the Ram Trucks brand is known for and that small business owners need.
For instance, the new EcoDiesel engine is a turbocharged 60-degree, dual-overhead camshaft 24-valve V-6 that produces 240 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. The class-exclusive small displacement turbo diesel engine delivers a best-in-class combination of torque and fuel efficiency, music to the ears of any small business owner looking to strike the right balance between brute force and efficiency.
This is not to say that the fuel-efficient Pentastar engine lacks power or that the powerful 5.7-liter HEMI engine is inefficient. It’s just the opposite, in fact. Thanks to advances in technology, the Pentastar engine features 42 percent more horsepower (305 total horsepower) and 13 percent more torque (269 total lb.-ft. of torque) when compared the previous 3.7-liter V-6 engine.
As for the HEMI V-8, it benefits from first-in-segment Fuel Saver Technology, not to mention advance design features like active aerodynamics and class-exclusive air suspension, all of which help ensure that the great power of the truck (395 horsepower, 410 lb.-ft. of torque) does not come at too heavy of a cost to overall fuel efficiency.
As
read on:
http://blog.chryslercommercialvehicles.com/2013/07/10/2014-ram-1500-three-available-powertrains-same-result-incredible-capability/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=Facebook&utm_campaign=THJul1013Facebook2&ism=THJul1013Facebook2
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Dick Scott Nissan's Summer Savings Sell-a-bration Event Going on NOW!
Hurry in to Dick Scott Nissan this Thursday, Friday and Saturday to take advantage
of AMAZING Savings!!
Dick Scott Nissan
42175 Michigan Ave
Canton, MI 48188
Tuesday, July 2, 2013
Test Drive for Free Tickets to Freedom Hill this July!
Visit
Dick Scott Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram this July and take a Test Drive in
any vehicle and receive a voucher for (2) free lawn tickets* to any
Freedom Hill concert as our gift to you!
*$6.00 parking and facility fee is required per voucher upon redemption. Valid only at the freedom hill box office. Subject to availability, voucher good for (2) FREE Lawn Tickets. Not redeemable for cash.
Monday, July 1, 2013
Dick Scott Automotive Group: Giving Back to our Community
Pictured above is General Manager Jason Scott (left) and Director of Dealership Operations, Nichole Scott (right) presenting the check from Chrysler for the funds raised at this event to Chris Van Ittersum, Moraine Elementary School PTA president. Chrysler donated $580 from this 3 hour event!
