Details about the development of the area near Five Mile and Beck Roads were highlighted at a Northville Township Board meeting Thursday.
Recent buzz about the business development potential of the land near Five Mile and Beck Roads on the Northville/Plymouth border bubbled up at the Northville Township Board of Trustees meeting Thursday night.
According to trustees, Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder will sign Senate Bill 425, which proposes the sale of the vacant Robert Scott Correctional Facility property, within a couple of weeks.
"I get calls from offices statewide inquiring about the sale of this parcel," said Lisa Nocevino, Vice President of Strategic Communications Solutions, a Novi-based public relations firm which provides tactical support and development strategies to government clients. Nocevino was a guest at Thursday's meeting.
"This is not a buzz just here, it's a buzz in Washington as well," Nocevino said. "It's a world class parcel because of its location. There is a lot of interest being generated about the collaboration that's happening here."
Northville Township Trustee Marjorie Banner said the township has been in talks with Plymouth Township to develop ideas on how to best utilize the property as an industrial area.
"We've been working on this undertaking for awhile. We are excited about what's to come of this area," Banner said.
According to Nocevino, legislators support the collaborative efforts between the two townships.
"Due to tough economic conditions, cities should come together and try to strengthen the economy when they can," she said. "This is collaboration at its best."
One Northville Township resident in attendence at the meeting, however, said he would rather see the township put its attention on another vacant property two miles to the north.
"It amazes me how the buzz about the workings of the Five Mile project made it all the way to Washington while residents have been asking Northville Township to do something about the abandoned hospital that's on Seven Mile and Haggerty road for quite some time now," said Steve Emsley.
Emsely explained his paranoia of someone being severely hurt inside the vacant former mental hospital.
"It is in bad shape, the windows are out, the property is not secure. There has to be something done about this or something bad is going to happen," he said.
According to the board of trustees, 80 arrests have been made this year in attempts to keep the area safe, over-time patrols have been hired and trespassing ticket fines has been set at $220.
The board said that based on the township's budget, no further efforts can be made this time.
As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/bot-meeting-unveils-governor-s-plan
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Potential Five Mile Business Project Creates Buzz Nationally, Locally
Saturday, October 29, 2011
NEW! 1st Annual Daddy Daughter Dance!
Dads, Uncles, and Grandfathers grab your little lady and get ready for an evening packed with dancing and memories! We will have a DJ on hand from Dramatic Dimensions Entertainment to keep you dancing all night long. Light refreshments and snacks will be served. Souvenir photos and packages will be available to order an additional cost. Semi-formal, dressy-casual attire recommended.
Spaces are still available but advance ticket purchase is required because space is limited. Sorry NO Walk-Ins will be accepted. Register now!
Registration #: 346104.01
Location: Cultural Center Reception Room
Ages: All Ages
Fees: $10 each
Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Date: Saturday, February 4th
For more information contact the Recreation Department at: (734)455-6620 or visit: www.ci.plymouth.mi.us/RecreationSpecialEvents.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Polaris Invests in Brammo Electric Motorcycles
Polaris Industries Inc. has announced a minority investment in Brammo, an Ashland, Ore.-based maker of electric motorcycles. By investing in Brammo, Polaris obtains access to its proprietary electric vehicle powertrain technology, as well as exposure to the electric motorcycle market.
“We are excited to advance our electric vehicle capability by establishing Polaris as a business partner and part owner of Brammo, one of the most innovative and aggressive companies we have found in the electric motorcycle space,” says Scott Wine, Polaris CEO. “Our companies share a passion for performance, and we look forward to exploiting the numerous opportunities created by pairing Brammo’s industry-leading electric powertrain technology with Polaris’ vast array of market-leading powersports products. This is a small, but important, investment for Polaris in an electric vehicle market that we feel is poised for significant growth.”
Polaris is hardly new to electric vehicles. The Minnesota-based manufacturer currently produces the Ranger EV off-road vehicle and the Gem and Breeze neighborhood vehicles.
Founded in 2002, Brammo currently offers the Enertia line of motorcycles, capable of speeds in excess of 60 mph and claimed ranges up to 80 miles on a single charge. Brammo plans to expand its product line to include high-performance sport motorcycles capable of more than 100 miles on a single charge, as well as a full line of entry- to high-performance dirt and dual-sport motorcycles.
“We have always been impressed with Polaris’ leadership within the powersports industry. Polaris is a company founded on innovation and quality and, as such, their decision to partner with Brammo is a resounding endorsement of our technology,” says Brammo CEO and founder Craig Bramscher. “This is a terrific scenario for Brammo’s customers, as we bring Polaris’ legendary engineering, manufacturing, and customer service expertise to bear on our products.”
In addition to potentially utilizing Brammo technology in its own products, Polaris will collaborate with Brammo to grow its core business.
As read on: http://blog.motorcycle.com/2011/10/26/electric/polaris-invests-in-brammo-electric-motorcycles/
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Safe Kids Releases First-of-Its Kind Halloween Research Study
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Washington, DC - New Safe Kids research shows only one third of parents talk to their children annually about Halloween safety. To complete this first-of-its kind study on Halloween-safety, Safe Kids commissioned Harris Interactive to conduct a poll of 935 parents with children ages 12 and younger to assess their knowledge, attitudes and behaviors related to Halloween safety.
On average, twice as many child pedestrians are killed while walking on Halloween compared to other days of the year. On this potentially dangerous night of the year for child pedestrians, Safe Kids strongly recommends that parents prepare children to behave safely and for drivers to take extra precautions.
While most of the parent participants in the study have talked to their children about Halloween safety at some point, many have not made it an annual conversation. Safe Kids urges parents to engage in repeated discussions with each child, every year to reinforce safety messages and safe behaviors because of the risks they face on Halloween.
"Given children's limited attention spans, repeated and consistent messages about safe behaviors are key to preventing injuries," says Kate Carr, President and CEO of Safe Kids Worldwide. "By following the basic safety tips provided by Safe Kids, Halloween can be a fun and safe night for children of all ages."
According to the study, 40 percent of parents allow their child to use one or more unsafe item on Halloween such as a mask, loosing fitting clothing, and / or a sharp object - any of which could contribute to falls, burns or pedestrian injuries. These are preventable hazards that could be avoided by following Safe Kids' safety tips.
Another key finding of this report shows twelve percent of children five years of age or younger are permitted to trick-or-treat alone. Not only should these young children be accompanied by an adult, but it is also recommended by Safe Kids that no child under 12 years of age spend Halloween night navigating the streets unsupervised. This recommendation was made to protect children who often lack the maturity and cognitive ability to make appropriate decisions to accurately judge speeds and distance.
"It is alarming to hear that children ages five years and younger are trick-or-treating without adult supervision," added Carr. "If they are old enough and mature enough to trick-or-treat without an adult, parents should make sure children go out in groups and stick to a predetermined route with good lighting."
In preparation for Halloween, Safe Kids coalitions across the country will team up with Walk This Way program sponsor FedEx to provide kids with reflective materials to promote visibility, including zipper tags that can be attached to costumes and trick-or-treat bags, as well as important safety information to children, parents, and drivers. The Halloween study was made possible through funding provided by FedEx.
To ensure a safer celebration of Halloween, Safe Kids and FedEx recommend the following tips to parents and caregivers:
Trick-or-Treating Safety:
Children under 12 should trick-or-treat and cross streets with an adult.
Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left as possible.
Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks.
Decorate costumes and bags with reflective tape or stickers and, choose light colored costumes that fit properly and avoid carrying sticks, swords, or other sharp objects.
Check treats for signs of tampering before children are allowed to eat them. Candy should be thrown away if the wrapper is faded, torn, or unwrapped.
What Drivers Need to Know:
Slow down and be especially alert in residential neighborhoods. Children are excited on Halloween and may move in unpredictable ways.
Anticipate heavy pedestrian traffic and turn your headlights on early in the day so you can spot children from greater distances.
Remember that costumes can limit children's visibility and they may not be able to see your vehicle.
Reduce any distractions inside your car so you can concentrate on the road and your surroundings.
For more tips on how to help kids become safer pedestrians on Halloween, as well as throughout the year, visit www.safekids.org and visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/safekidsusa.
In 1999, Safe Kids Worldwide and program sponsor FedEx created the Safe Kids Walk This Way Program in the United States to teach safe behaviors to motorists and child pedestrians and create safer, more walkable communities. This year will mark the twelfth yeah anniversary of the program.
As read on: http://www.safekids.org/our-work/news-press/press-releases/safe-kids-releases.html
Plant City police ditch Harleys in favor of Victory motorcycles
PLANT CITY --
The city's motorcycle officers have new sets of wheels.
The city police department recently rolled out four Victory motorcycles, which officers say are more powerful and safer than the Harley-Davidsons they replace.
"The safety features provided on the Victory motor is second to none," Senior Officer Russell Bass said. "It turns well, has forged steel roll protectors, pinned down floorboards and a bottom skid plate that protects the bike from impact and debris."
The Victory Commander I's also feature a black and white art deco look.
The city revived its motorcycle unit about 10 years ago after a hiatus of several years. Master Patrol Officer Fred Morris, who has been with the unit since its rebirth, said the Victorys make tighter turns and have the ground clearance to drive over curbs without damage.
The motorcycles also come with tip over protection and the fixed floorboards reduce the possibility of an officer breaking or twisting a foot, ankle or knee in the event the bike goes down, officers said.
The city bought the four new bikes at a cost of more than $30,000 each. The city plans to sell three of its Harley-Davidsons at auction and keep the fourth for a historical display.
Plant City police say they are the only department east of the Mississippi River using Victory motorcycles. Public Information Officer Tray Towles said factors in making the switch included five-year wheel-to-wheel factory warranty and maintenance.
The warranty and maintenance agreement will save the city thousands of dollars over the life of each bike, the department said.
A police news release hails the Victory as the "best police motorcycle on the market."
Officer Kyle Russell, a member of the motorcycle unit since August 2009, likes the powerful, 97-horsepower, 106 cubic inch engine.
"We want to accelerate in traffic and get behind the traffic offender as quickly as possible to limit danger to the public," he said.
As read on: http://www2.tbo.com/news/plant-city/2011/oct/21/police-ditch-harleys-in-favor-of-victory-motorcycl-ar-273306/
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Embattled Hartland Principal Goes on Leave
Creekside Elementary School Principal Tracey Sahouri — who has been under fire recently over her handling of this year's MEAP test and accusations that she allowed underage drinking at her home — has taken an indefinite leave of absence, according to a letter to parents.
Hartland School District Superintendent Janet Sifferman did not address either controversy in a brief letter, in which she also announced that Lawrence Pumford will serve as acting principal. Pumford has worked in the district for more than 11 years, most recently as an assistant principal at the high school.
"Please feel free to contact Mr. Pumford or me if you have any specific concerns regarding your children," she wrote.
As read on: http://hartland.patch.com/articles/embattled-hartland-principal-goes-on-leave
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Bulk Leaf Pick-Up THIS WEEK in Plymouth, Michigan
The Department of Municipal Services will be doing bulk leaf pick up this week (Week of October 24) in Area C. Area C is all streets South of Ann Arbor Tr., West of S. Main St., North of Ann Arbor Rd., and East of Sheldon Rd. See the city website for a map, www.ci.plymouth.mi.us.
Residents are required to have leaves neatly raked to the curb by 7:00A.M. on the Monday of your designated week. DO NOT place grass clippings, branches/limbs, corn stalks, pumpkins, etc. into the street with leaves. DO NOT place leaf piles over storm drains. Plugged grates will cause flooding. Please take special care to keep grates free of leaves. Your second designated week will be the week of November 21. Thank you for following these guidelines to make this season's leaf collection as efficient as possible.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Yard Waste Pickup Ends in Farmington Hills Nov. 28-Dec. 2
Under the city’s refuse contract and Michigan laws governing yard waste disposal, yard waste cannot be picked up after Dec. 2. According to the state Dept. of Environmental Quality, yard waste is prohibited in Michigan landfills.
Any accumulated yard waste should be stored until spring pickup resumes in early April, 2012.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Pumpkin Palooza coming to downtown Plymouth this Sunday, October 23, from noon to 4:00!
Games, crafts, entertainment, a “haunted alley” and candy — of course — will hit the streets of downtown Plymouth next weekend for the debut of a one-day Halloween party for children.
Pumpkin Palooza, a free event being organized by downtown retailers, will combine elements the Great Pumpkin Caper (downtown trick-or-treating) and summertime's Kid Palooza, the two events it replaces. The first-ever Pumpkin Palooza is scheduled for noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23.
“We wanted it to be more of an event instead of the normal trick-or-treating,” said Lindsey Lebovitz, the owner of Creatopia and chairwoman of the Pumpkin Palooza committee.
“It's more fun for the kids instead of just walking around in a circle on the sidewalk, in a big, huge crowd,” Lebovitz added.
The Great Pumpkin Caper, which drew kids to downtown businesses that were passing out candy, was popular, said Teri Fry, events manager at the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce, but the spirit of Halloween — and fun — was lost in the crush of people.
Pumpkin Palooza, while offering trick-or-treating at some businesses (and at candy stations at three major intersections), will also feature a variety of activities that should be more in keeping with the Halloween theme, she said.
“They wanted to do something better,” Fry said of the retailers.
Pumpkin Palooza will take place downtown on Main, Forest, Ann Arbor Trail and Penniman — the streets will be closed to vehicles — and at Kellogg Park and The Gathering.
Games, with prizes, will include pumpkin bowling (pumpkins as bowling balls, gourds as the pins), witch-hat ring toss, pumpkin bocce ball and “ghost” waiter races. There will also be Halloween-themed crafts, a strolling magician and a strolling balloon sculptor, a 2:30 p.m. hula-hoop demonstration in Kellogg Park, and a noon pet costume contest and 1:30 p.m. children's costume contest both at The Gathering. (Registration for the pet contest is at 11:30 a.m.; entrants to the kids' contest can just show up).
Pumpkin Palooza will also feature a “haunted alley” (the passageway between Main and the lower part of the downtown parking deck) and a “pirate singer” who will be doing his swashbuckling on Forest between Wing and Ann Arbor Trail.
Jack Demmer Ford is the event's major sponsor, but Fry said upwards of 35 businesses are participating. Some 20 to 25 of those, said Lebovitz, will have candy for trick-or-treaters.
It'll be the only downtown Plymouth event designed especially for children, the two said.
“Most of the events that go on in town are for adults, except for Fall Festival,” said Fry. “So this is strictly a children's event.”
For updates on Pumpkin Palooza offerings, check the chamber's website, www.plymouthmich.org., and click on the “events” tab.
As read on: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2011110160504
Friday, October 14, 2011
Chili Contest, Motorcycle Show - 16th Annual Great Lakes Regional Chili Cook-Off
Enjoying weather that was more August than October, an estimated 20,000 people visited downtown Plymouth Sunday for the Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff.
The 16th annual festival, which netted around $40,000 for Habitat for Humanity of Western Wayne County, featured a motorcycle show, performances by dance troupes, live music by Steve King and the Dittilies, vendors' booths — and chili: 90 different varieties in five competition categories.
The crowd went through more than 50,000 samples of chili, according to organizers Annette and Ken Horn.
“It was the smoothest-running event so far,” said Annette Horn, board president of Great Lakes Chili Inc., the nonprofit that runs the festival. “It's one of the most fun days of the fall season for us, even though it is crazy and hectic.”
The chili ran out shortly before the event's official 5 p.m. closing time.
“Usually a restaurant here and there will have some chili left, but we absolutely ran dry,” said Horn.
Returning cooks took some of the top honors in the cookoff at The Gathering.
“They're getting a little tired of me here,” joked Richard Chauvin of Windsor after picking up his first-place award, in International Chili Society competition, for chili verde, or green chili.
It was the third straight chili verde win for Chauvin, who was fresh from the Oct. 1 ICS world championship in Manchester, N.H., where he (and about 140 other chili verde cooks) lost to Gary Ray of Livonia.
With his win Sunday, Chauvin, a master cook in both green and red chili, is guaranteed a spot in next fall's world championship.
People's choice
By contrast, Ron Smith of Novi took home top honors in the people's choice category, a non-ICS competition, after competing in the Plymouth festival for the first time.
Smith had whipped up a little more than 10 gallons of his white chicken chili.
“This is great,” said Smith. “I know I have a popular chili, but it never dawned on me I would win the people's choice.”
Smith is also a member of the Motor City HOG (Harley Owners Group) at Motor City Harley-Davidson in Farmington Hills, which sponsored one of two “chili rides” of motorcyclists into downtown Plymouth. The events — the other chili ride was sponsored by Dick Scott Classic Motorcycles in Livonia — brought about 400 motorcycles rumbling into town, the Horns said.
In addition, there were 146 motorcycles, parked on Ann Arbor Trail between Union and Main, in the festival's motorcycle show, in which prizes were awarded in 18 categories. Motorcycle-related events raised money for the Penrickton Center for Blind Children in Taylor, and the proceeds were still being counted up Tuesday, Annette Horn said.
As read on: http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20111013/NEWS10/110130602/Recipe-success-Chili-contest-motorcycle-show?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CLivonia%7Cs
Thursday, October 13, 2011
LIVONIA electronic waste, secure document shredding and tire recycling event THIS Saturday, October 15th!
REMINDER - An electronic waste, secure document shredding and tire recycling event will be held this Saturday, October 15th from 9:00am - 1:00 pm at the DPW Yard 12973 Farmington Rd (One block south of Schoolcraft on the west side of Farmington Rd)
Hazardous waste will not be collected at this event. Wayne County will be conducting a Household Hazardous Waste/E-Waste event in November. Details will be e-mailed shortly
Electronic Waste Recycling - Computers, televisions, monitors, keyboards, mice, printers, fax machines, VCR & DVD players, stereos & speakers, cell phones & telephones, microwave ovens, X-Mas lights, game consoles, etc.
Tire Recycling - In conjunction with Wayne County Department of Environment, tires with or without rims may be disposed of. Up to ten tires per household accepted.
Paper Shredding - Residents and businesses may bring sensitive documents for secure shredding, (up to five boxes will be accepted-each box the approximate size of a recycle bin). Examples of items that should be securely shredded include invoices, bank statements, cancelled checks, tax returns, contracts, personal papers, etc. Paper clips, binder clips, and staples do not need to be removed. Bindings and metal spines cannot be shredded and must be removed in advance. (Note: Non-sensitive documents can be recycled year-round at the Livonia Recycling Center or in your recycle bin at the curb)
Jeep Wrangler finds its softer side
By Scott Burgess / The Detroit News
America, along with the rest of the world, has cheapened our icons.
Nowadays, everything is iconic: Robert Redford, a water tower and even a good Coney dog might qualify. The problem with making everything iconic is that then nothing really is. It's like saying every child is special.
But one special vehicle deserving of this trail-rated badge is the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. It defines more than a brand — it defines a country, a way of life. Close your eyes and think of a Jeep and it's the Wrangler crawling slowly up the side of your brain, fording cerebral fluid like it was crossing the Amazon River itself.
And finally, the Wrangler is opening its doors to more than just those wonderfully crazed enthusiasts who always have mud splattered on their sunglasses and dust covering the dash and floor and gear inside of other gear. The Jeep life used to be a dusty one.
Now the Wrangler has made room for everyone else, including the people who don't care for dust.
Jeep put the Wrangler in its transmogrifier and popped out the 2012 version with better gas mileage, more power and a lot more refinement inside and out.
At first glance, the Wrangler's looks haven't changed much. There are still all of those great cues that say you drove to work via the Continental Pass. The big, round headlights, the seven-slotted grille and chunky 18-inch wheel strapped onto the back. There are a few other things enthusiasts know about, such as the exposed door hinges and the trapezoidal shaped fenders that help define the Wrangler.
But something happened during assembly that gives the Wrangler a cleaner look. Jeep attributes some of this to improved manufacturing and a new paint shop. This made it possible to provide a body-colored hardtop for the 2011 regular Wranglers and for 2012 Sahara and Rubicon models.
Inside, an interior overhaul has moved this 4x4 up a few rungs of the sophistication ladder. It's a delicate ascent, as Wrangler still wants to have all of its rugged appeal but still attract people who enjoy some of the finer things in life, such as a well-made dash and comfortable seats.
The interior is comfortable and complete. The softer dash pushes out on a few inches from the nearly straight up windshield, and the redesigned instrument gauges are much more crisp.
Finally complete
Really, the difference is just the way this dash looks and feels over the previous generation. Jeep underwent a small overhaul for the 2011 model year, but critics called it half-baked.
Now, it's finished. The materials feel high-grade, and there's a completeness the previous model lacked.
There are the easy-to-reach USB connections and heated front seats (always been needed on chilly fall days when it's sunny enough to keep the roof down).
(There are two types of roofs, a soft or hardtop, available for the Wrangler. Personally, I like the soft top, which is surprisingly quiet when it's up; it takes a few minutes to lower, once you find all of the zippers involved.)
Jeep also brings it new UConnect system. The voice-activated system will connect your phone via Bluetooth for hands-free phone operation and your music-playing device.
My test vehicle still included the old-generation 6.5-inch color touch screen with chunky buttons down each side, but this system is better than last year. It took only a few minutes to get the speakers mounted on the roll bars and cranking out tunes.
Of course, sitting in the back of the Wrangler remains an uncomfortable experience and just getting back there can be a hassle. (This explains why the four-door Wrangler Unlimited continues to outsell the Wrangler two-door.)
More mileage
There are also convenient features such as the 115-volt outlet in the second row, a feature that every vehicle in the world should have. Jeep also added lockable storage, which comes in handy when the soft top is down and the Wrangler is parked. The Wrangler used to symbolize roughing it, but now, you don't have to sacrifice anything inside the Wrangler.
Driving the Wrangler, there's never a sense of sacrifice. First, it can do everything, if not more, than all of the Wranglers from years gone by. (This Wrangler was introduced in 1987, and the original Jeep Wiley pulled four years of military service before it even became available to the general public.)
Now, the Wrangler has the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 under its clamshell hood. This engine, the driving force behind Chrysler Group's revival, is smaller, more powerful and all around better than the outgoing 3.8-liter V-6 formally in the Wrangler.
It produces 83 more horsepower (285 horsepower total), 23 pound-feet more torque (260 pound-feet total) and better fuel economy. The new Wrangler can get 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
More mileage
Naturally, when you're going to put an engine into a Jeep, it will require modifications. Jeep engineers improved the intake, giving the Jeep more power, and moved the alternator up, just in case of an Amazon crossing.
Some of that mileage improvement can be attributed to the new five-speed automatic transmission (there's also a German-made six-speed manual available). The manual transmission is extremely smooth, and a few times during my test-drive I forgot to put the Jeep in the fifth or sixth gear because the Wrangler was so responsive. The automatic was equally as responsive, never hunting for a gear.
The suspension, while created for all of that crazy wheel articulation off-road, provides a smooth ride on the highway and county roads. Even the Rubicon model felt comfortable on the road.
And that's the difference between this Jeep and any other Wrangler.
Off the road, it will chew up almost any terrain in front of it. It relishes every opportunity to get dirty. On the road, it feels like a nice SUV with a smooth ride.
And this Wrangler will never call itself iconic. It knows if you have to call yourself that, then you're not. And this Jeep certainly is.
As read on: http://apps.detnews.com/apps/autoreviews/index.php?id=35706
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Car-Care Checklist for Cold-weather Driving Season
Mopar® Announces Car-Care Checklist for Cold-weather Driving Season
- Ten items to check before winter
- Mopar® services Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram, SRT and Fiat vehicles
- With the addition of Magneti Marelli parts, Mopar also services competitive makes
- Mopar now offers full menu of all-season, winter and performance tires
- Mopar Service Clinic offers free vehicle inspections and dealership tours at select Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and Fiat dealerships
“Now is the time to prepare your vehicle for the upcoming winter-driving season,” said Jim Sassorossi, Head of Sales and Product Development at Mopar®, Chrysler Group’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “Preventative maintenance helps vehicles perform at optimum levels in a variety of conditions.
“With original-equipment Mopar parts, our factory-trained technicians provide full service to Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram, SRT and Fiat vehicles,” Sassorossi added. “And with the addition of proven, quality-tested parts from Magneti Marelli, we also service all domestic and most import vehicles as well.”
Mopar’s Fall Car-Care Checklist
1: BrakesSummer travel gives brake pads a heavy workout, resulting in the removal of thin layers. Now is the time to check pads, shoes, rotors, drums, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake hardware and the parking brake for wear and tear.
2: TiresClosely inspect the tread and sidewall areas of tires for uneven or irregular wear. In addition, excessive edge wear, center wear and shoulder wear can act as an indicator for other trouble spots on your vehicle. It's also important to ensure correct air pressure at all times in order to prevent premature wear. Be sure to check the spare as well. If replacements are needed, Mopar offers a complete lineup of tires and winter tires from BFGoodrich, Bridgestone, Continental, Dunlop, Firestone, General, Goodyear, Hankook, Kelly, Kumho, Michelin, Uniroyal and Yokohama brands.
3: Battery Summer heat does the most damage to battery life and is why they often fail in the winter. Check for corroded terminals and a bulging or cracked case. Test and replace battery if necessary.
4: Wiper BladesWinter driving conditions challenge your ability to see the road. Mopar’s lineup of wiper blades now includes Beam Blades, which provide superior all-weather performance and aid driving visibility. The wiper blades boast a skin coating that seals the aerodynamic spoiler in order to protect it from winter weather. Mopar Beam Blades also are constructed to eliminate exposed parts and to resist snow- and ice-clogging.
5: Shocks and StrutsFor motorists located in cold and snowy climates, fall and winter also usher in a dreaded time of year: pothole season. Shocks and struts are the most overlooked service parts on a vehicle, but they affect ride control and comfort and can also affect a number of related parts. Mopar shocks and struts optimize vehicle handling, tire life and keep vehicles riding smoothly.
6: Engine OilEnsure your engine oil has the correct viscosity in order to endure cold weather. Engine oil should be changed or replenished at recommended intervals. Low or dirty fluids affect how an engine and its components perform and could potentially cause engine damage under extreme conditions.
7: Fluid LevelsAll vehicle fluids and lubricants should be checked and changed at factory-recommended intervals. Key fluids include antifreeze/coolant level and concentration, as well as power steering, brake, transmission and windshield washer fluids.
8: Engine Belts and HosesReplace belts and hoses at recommended intervals. Quality-tested Mopar belts and hoses offer precision fit, optimal service life and original-equipment performance.
9: Air FilterThe air filter is designed to protect your engine from airborne contaminants. Poor air flow to the engine inhibits performance and generates greater fuel consumption. A new air filter allows clean, unrestricted air flow into the engine and helps ensure proper performance for a longer life.
10: Headlamps and TaillampsDays become shorter in the fall and winter, meaning more nighttime driving and increased usage of headlamps and taillamps. Inspect and test all lamps on your vehicle to ensure proper function and proper alignment.
Mopar Fall Service Specials and RebatesMopar has a full slate of fall service specials and mail-in rebates on tap for consumers, including:
- $70 rebates on select sets of four Goodyear premium tires
- $20 rebates per set of any other four Goodyear tires
- $20 rebates per set of two Value Line struts
- $10 rebates per set of two Value Line shocks
- $2.50 rebates per each Value Line wiper blade (applicable for all makes and models)
- At select Chrysler Group dealerships, one special low price for three services: oil and filter change, Mopar Value Line wiper blades and multipoint vehicle checkup, plus a 10 percent discount on needed repairs
- At select Chrysler Group dealerships, customers can take advantage of the Mopar Service Clinic, a program that offers free vehicle inspections in October and November
- Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
- Vehicle-information smartphone apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
- Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
- Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to introduce new vehicle tracking system that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on set parameters
- 2011 Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
- WiFi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
- Brand-specific customer-care telephone lines: first to offer Sunday service hours to customers
- WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network
Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original-equipment parts for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram vehicles — a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide. A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at http://www.mopar.com.
More than 70 Years of MoparWhen Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.
Mopar (a simple contraction of the words MOtor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. It also was widely used as a moniker for the CMPC. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s — the muscle-car era. The Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth “package cars” equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of “special parts” for super-stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.
As read on: http://media.chrysler.com/newsrelease.do;jsessionid=5081CCF289143A683AB95EEB5C70B487?&id=11590&adid=MoparCold&pid=ChryslerFacebook&mid=2?sid=Chrysler&channel=Social
Monday, October 10, 2011
Chili Cookoff Winners Crowned in Downtown Plymouth
Freshly made chili was a hot item Sunday in downtown Plymouth as thousands visited Kellogg Park for the Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff.
Cooks from around the country descended upon downtown Plymouth with hopes of taking home a plaque for their prized recipes.
The event also featured live music from Steve King and the Dittilies, children's games and an abundance of flashy motorcycles.
Winners, as selected both by attendees and judges, included:
•Best Booth: Leo Buk, Nuclear Chili
•People's Choice: Ron Smith, Motor City Harley Davidson
•Best Salsa: Bill "Gumby" Donovan
•Chili Verde: Richard Chauvin
•Red Chili: Diane Lentz
Richard Chauvin of Windsor, Ontario, winner of chili verde, said the Plymouth event likely was the most work he's done for a chili cookoff, because of "the support the town gives."
Chauvin said chili verde, or green chili, has a fresher taste than red chili.
"A mediocre green chili is better than a great red," he said.
He said his recipe is "a little on the hot side," and that he uses all fresh ingredients.
Chauvin, a retired accountant, said he cooks chili "just for fun," but hasn't ruled out going into the food business.
AS read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/chili-cookoff-winners-crowned-in-downtown-plymouth#photo-8064650
Thursday, October 6, 2011
THIS Sunday, October 9th is the 16th Annual Great Lakes Regional Chili Cookoff!
Visit our Upcoming Events Page for complete Charity Ride Details and to Print a flyer!
Great Lakes Regional Chili Cook-off Event:
Sunday, October 9, 2011, 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Plymouth, MI
Great Lakes Regional Chili, Inc is a not-for-profit 501(c) 3 organization that holds chili cook-offs to benefit charities or other nonprofit organizations. Winners of the Great Lakes Regional Chili, Inc cook-offs qualify to compete at the International Chili Society (ICS) World's Championship Chili Cook-off. The ICS is the largest food contest, festival organization in the world!
Great Lakes Regional Chili, Inc is very proud that in the past 14 years we have raised $185,000 for charities and nonprofit organizations here in Southeast Michigan.
Charities who have received at least $5,000 include: Make a Wish Foundation, The Rainbow Connection, Plymouth Salvation Army, Bridgepoint, Michigan Youth Soccer Association and Habitat for Humanity.
Click here to visit the Great Lakes Regional Chili Cook Off web site: www.greatlakeschili.com
As read on: http://www.plymouthmich.org/events/Great-Lakes-Regional-Chili-Cook-Off_ET23S27.html
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Volunteers strive for better Redford
Part of the I-96 service drive is looking better recently, thanks to a small, determined army of volunteers.
On Saturday, for the fourth time in two months, those volunteers — a group called At Your Service — spent most of the morning picking up trash, whacking weeds and generally improving the I-96 service drive, from Telegraph to Sarasota.
“We collected 54 bags of trash,” said Tom Rayburn, spokesman for the group that started at the South Redford Christian Church and evolved into the Christian Alliance of Redford. “It's not finished yet, and we'll be back. We'll probably do it again next year.”
The cleanup involved as many as 25 people, mostly from churches affiliated with the alliance.
“It was actually fun,” said the Rev. Lee A. Williams, pastor of the Merciful Ministries of Jesus Christ that moved to the township in June. “We picked up a lot of paper and cut a lot of weeds.”
Several passers-by stopped to ask questions and subsequently to thank the volunteers. Among them was Pam Provenzano, who was so impressed, she decided to join.
“I was walking my dog and I saw people working along the service drive,” she said. “They really did a good job. The service drive looked so much better.”
Provenzano, who manages a law office in Ann Arbor, doesn't have much time. “I don't know the extent of what they (the volunteers) do,” she said. “But if they do things like that, I'm willing to help.”
Provenzano has lived in the township for 54 years. “I want Redford to be as clean as I remember it,” she said.
The volunteers undertake a variety of projects, Rayburn explained. The group doesn't have any particular criteria for undertaking a project, he said, except the end result must help people and the township.
“We haven't had to turn any project down yet,” he said. The group, he predicted, will just continue doing good work. “We help where we can.”
As for anyone who wants to join, Rayburn said, “We're a Christian-based organization. But we welcome anyone willing to work.”
Previous projects have included helping seniors with their homes and repainting the Old School House in front of the Post Office — now the office of the Redford Township Historical Commission.
“They did a great job,” said Arvilla Moore, a member of the commission and a charter member of the Historical Society. “They came out for five or six weekends. It was a lot of work.”
Township Supervisor Tracey Schultz Kobylarz agrees. “Tom Rayburn and his group of Christian soldiers are making a huge impact on the elimination of blight on the I-96 corridor,” she said. “It is an excellent example of how church and state can (and should) work together.
“The hundreds of volunteer hours have improved the look of the corridor and increased the safety of drivers and pedestrians.”
As Read on: http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20110929/NEWS16/109290617/Volunteers-strive-better-Redford?odyssey=nav%7Chead
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Who will win game 4 tonight of the ALDS?
The Yankees need to save their season, and, lo and behold, A.J. Burnett is the one who will try to ensure that happens.
It took an interesting turn of events -- perhaps Yankees fans would call it a cruel twist of fate -- but with the Yanks needing to win Game 4 of the American League Division Series on Tuesday to force a Game 5 at Yankee Stadium, it'll be the enigmatic Burnett trying to come through against young-but-tenured Tigers starter Rick Porcello.
Burnett knows about all the criticism, all the insecurities and all the doubt surrounding whether he can continue to be a productive member of the Yanks' rotation.
Apparently, he listens to none of it.
"Believe it or not, I've got pretty good confidence every start," said Burnett, who's 1-2 with a 5.67 ERA in six postseason starts. "I try to go out and believe I can throw a no-hitter. Even last year, when I couldn't get out of the first inning, I still took the mound with belief, and I did so this year."
Burnett has put up a 5.20 ERA the last two seasons, and in 2011, he set career highs in homers and wild pitches, all while contributing just 10 quality starts in 32 appearances.
For that, Burnett initially found himself out of the playoff rotation -- before Friday's suspended game forced manager Joe Girardi to go with four starters -- and for that, Yankees fans are holding their collective breath with Burnett getting ready to take the mound in a big start.
He gets all that.
But he has a message.
"You can't count me out," Burnett said on Monday. "I'm going to bring everything I've got and just let A.J. loose out there."
In Detroit manager Jim Leyland's words, the man he'll be letting loose is "Jekyll and Hyde."
That's what Porcello and his heavy sinker were throughout the regular season.
The 22-year-old right-hander went 5-0 with a 3.06 ERA in July, struggled toward a 6.82 ERA in August, then finished the season going 4-1 with a 3.55 ERA in September.
"What you have to remember about Rick Porcello is he's still a very, very young pitcher," Leyland said. "I think he's won 38 games in the Major Leagues already, but he's still a young pitcher. So those things are going to happen. There's no question about that. Figuring out big league hitters, figuring out how to calm down, figuring out how to have just enough adrenaline and not too much adrenaline. He's figuring it all out in the process."
Porcello, who tied his a career-high in wins (14) and set a new one in innings (182) in his third full season, is a New Jersey kid who grew up a Mets fan. His parents, however, always cheered on the Yankees.
"Mom loves Derek Jeter," Porcello said. "Might like him more than me."
Now Porcello has a chance to finish off those Yankees.
Yankees: Big bats still cold
The middle of the Bombers' order went 0-for-10 in Monday's 5-4 Game 2 loss. Robinson Cano finished 0-for-4 with two strikeouts, Alex Rodriguez went 0-for-2 with two walks and Mark Teixeira went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts.
For A-Rod and Teixeira, the two hitters counted on to ensure Cano doesn't get pitched around too much, perhaps it's especially troubling. The two are a combined 1-for-21 in the series.
But Girardi didn't echo any concerns following Game 2.
Regarding A-Rod, Girardi said: "He had an RBI and two walks tonight. He was on base twice and drove in a run. I know he didn't hit a home run, but he was on base, and that's what you want guys to do, is get on."
Regarding Teixeira, he said: "He lined out to left. ... You're facing good pitchers. Teams don't get to this point by having not good staffs. They make good pitches. [Tigers ace Justin] Verlander, it's not like you're facing a guy that they pulled out of the stands tonight."
Tigers: Valverde conquers adventures
In the end, it's simple: Closer Jose Valverde has held on to both ninth-inning leads he's been given in this series.
But his adventurous ninth innings have been anything but simple.
Valverde gave up two earned runs on two hits and two walks in Sunday's outing. On Monday, he put the tying run in scoring position and had to strike out Derek Jeter to end it.
Valverde went 49-for-49 in saves this season. But tough predicaments are nothing new.
"He does get into problems," Leyland said. "We know they're going to run on him in certain situations. You can't do much better than what he's done up to this point. So we feel comfortable with him."
Worth noting
• Monday's crowd of 43,581 marked the largest in postseason history at Comerica Park.
• Opposing right-handed batters hit .248 against Porcello this season, while opposing lefties hit .321.
• Brett Gardner, who went 2-for-3 with two RBIs on Monday, has appeared in 26 of the Yanks' 27 postseason games since 2009
As read on: http://detroit.tigers.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2011_10_04_nyamlb_detmlb_1&mode=preview&vkey=preview_web_home&c_id=det&partnerId=aw-5062538658410631377-1075
Monday, October 3, 2011
Plymouth-Canton's P-CEP Complex Shut After Threat
Plymouth-Canton Educational Park has been closed and what school officials have described as a "credible threat."
Canton Police have issued a statement calling the incident a "threat of student retaliation."
A controlled release of students is underway. The three-school complex includes Plymouth, Salem and Canton high schools, with about 6,200 students.
District officials put the Park into lockdown this morning at about 8 a.m.," accoding to a statement released by the district. "Police determined that a credible threat has be received and we have asked students and teachers to stay in their first hour classes until further notice."
District spokesman Frank Ruggirello Jr. said the district will have a press conference later this afteroon with details but for now, "we're letting police do their jobs."
The dismissal is being conducted this way:
•Students who take the bus are being transported to their normal stop
•Students who drive will be allowed to drive their own cars home
•Parents who drive their children are being directed to Pioneer Middle School, 46081 Ann Arbor Rd., to pick up their children, Ruggirello said.
Because of the number of students being transported, Ruggirello said the district is asking parents to be patient with the process.
As read on: http://plymouth-mi.patch.com/articles/plymouth-cantons-p-cep-complex-shut-after-threat
