2014 Dodge Durango - Key to Versitility, Key to Sucess

Many a small business owner has come to this realization—to succeed, one cannot simply be proficient at a single job; one must be expert at all jobs that come up. From master strategist to back-up delivery driver to chief errand-runner to head of new business acquisition (and on and on and on), the owner of a small business must often adopt as many job titles as there are jobs that need to be done. In a perfect world, the small business owner would accomplish all of these jobs with help from a fleet of highly specialized vehicles, so that the perfect vehicle could be devoted to completing each job on the to-do list—a tough and rugged workhorse for chores demanding more muscle; a spacious cargo vehicle for the odd delivery or pickup; an efficient fuel-sipper for trips to see potential clients three cities away; and a refined and comfortable luxury vehicle for when those same clients want to ride along. But the reality is this: Few small businesses can afford to operate a fleet of vehicles. And the good news is they don’t have to—not when extremely versatile vehicles like the 2014 Dodge Durango are available. Best-in-Class Towing Capability The new 2014 Dodge Durango offers an excellent solution for the business owner who needs a powerful, capable vehicle. Pulling a trailer to an off-site job or event? Not a problem with the Durango’s standard 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine, and especially not with its available 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine, which comes with a best-in-class towing capability[1] of 7,400 pounds. Refined Interior Let’s face it—in business, appearances count. A smartly designed and well-appointed vehicle can say a lot about the person who drives it—not only that the person values his or her own comfort, but that he or she is also aware of and concerned about the passenger’s experience. Current and potential clients might not ever mention your Durango’s available Nappa leather-trimmed seats or available class-exclusive Blu-ray™ DVD system[1]. But giving them a lift around town in such a refined and comfortable vehicle is another easy way to reinforce those ever-important client relationships you’ve worked so hard in other arenas to cultivate. Great Fuel Efficiency (Up to 25 mpg Highway) A new, fully electronic eight-speed transmission with Eco Mode is largely responsible for the expected nine-percent improvement in fuel economy[2] over last year’s model. Couple the increased efficiency with quicker acceleration, smoother shifting and a best-in-class V6 driving range of 600 miles[1], and from multiple perspectives, the 2014 Dodge Durango becomes the sensible choice. Stay Connected Successful small business owners take advantage of available resources. For the 2014 Dodge Durango, resources include the available class-exclusive 8.4-inch Uconnect® Access System[1] with on-demand WiFi[3] (available with paid subscription), an option that will help you and your passengers stay connected just about anywhere you go. Just be sure always to use your devices safely—if you’re driving, pull over in a safe area before you connect. Coming Soon The 2014 Dodge Durango will be available in late 2013. In the meantime, please feel free to learn more about two good resources for small business owners—BusinessLink® and On the Job Incentives—currently available from Chrysler Commercial Vehicles. As read on: http://blog.chryslercommercialvehicles.com/2013/05/15/2014-dodge-durango/?ism=KM5.29.13Facebook2

World's Most Iconic Aviation Superstar Added to Lineup

Announcing a huge addition to this year's show. National Aviation Hall of Famer and aerobatic superstar Sean D. Tucker has just joined the lineup!

Sean D. Tucker is the most highly sought-after civilian aerobatic performer in the air show world. Sean is internationally known for his awe-inspiring aerobatic flying routine and has won numerous prestigious awards and recognition in the industry. Sean's airplane, the Oracle Challenger III bi-plane, is the most high-performance aerobatic aircraft today. This monster packs more than 400 horsepower, weighs just over 1,200 pounds and responds to the slightest pressure on the control stick at over 300 miles per hour! Watch as Sean flips, rattles and rolls through the Michigan air inspiring crowds with his stunning maneuvers and larger-than-life personality.

Thunder Over Michigan Air Show is August 10-11, 2013

Publically Announced Acts (so far):
Aviation Superstar Sean D. Tucker
DH-98 Mosquito
F-100 Super Sabre Jet
Former Red Bull Air Racer, Michal Goulian
WWII Battle Reenactment
Vietnam Air & Ground Battle Reenactment
Vietnam Homecoming
Kidz Zone Play Area
More to come!

Also, don't forget that ticket prices go up at the end of this month at 11:59PM on May 31st! For the air show enthusiasts, there are several premium seating options where the show is seen from the best seats on the flightline! Tickets for most seating options are still available online, however availability is limited and tickets traditionally sell out weeks prior to the event.

Memorial Day Celebration at the Yankee Air Museum

Starting at 9am until 10:30am there will be a Pancake breakfast in the Hangar Bay Area ($6.00 - Veterans Eat Free)

From 11:00am until Noon there will be a Memorial Ceremony held outdoors North of the Museum. There will be special seating for those in need and a special guest speaker.

Also, from 8:00am until 2:00pm the Red Cross will have a Blood Drive in the Museum Conference Room Area.

Many other family fun activities!

Purchase a Little Caesars Pizza Kit to support Toys for Tots!

Toys for Tots in Oakland County has teamed up with Little Caesar Pizza Kit Fundraising Program to help provide needy children in the area with new toys this holiday season. 

Simply click on the link below to place your online order today. Choose Local Delivery and pick up your kits at any of the locations listed below on the date and time noted. If you choose Home Delivery, your order will be shipped to you directly via UPS (additional shipping charges will apply.) 

Troy Walmart
2001 West Maple Road
Troy, MI 48084
Saturday, June 8^th between 12:00pm - 3:00pm

White Lake Walmart Supercenter
9190 Highland Road
White Lake, MI 48386
Saturday, June 8^th between 9:00am - 12:00pm

Dolsen Elementary School
56775 Rice Street
New Hudson, MI 48165
Saturday, June 8^th between 9:00am - 12:00pm

Novi Old Navy
43705 West Oaks Drive
Novi, MI 48377
Saturday, June 8^th between 12:00pm - 3:00pm

If you have any questions, please let me know. My number is 1-248-767-9940. Or, you may contact Little Caesars Fundraising directly at 1-888-452-5487.

Thank you!
Rebecca

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Your support would be greatly appreciated!
Can you help me by purchasing some Pizza Kits today? Little Caesars Pizza Kits are fun to make and delicious to eat! You'll want them on hand for quick dinners, tasty snacks, birthday parties or entertaining! Plus, you'll find: Value Quality & Taste Convenience
Order today! I'm sure you will love your Little Caesars Pizza Kits! Thank You for your help and support!

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Group:	Toys for Tots
Chairperson:	Rebecca Yarbrough
Customer ID	111424
Fundraiser ID	264985
Fundraiser End Date	6/4/2013
Delivery Date	6/8/2013
Delivery Location	26090 Ingersol Drive Novi, Michigan 48375 Choose from 4 Pick Up Locations
Pickup Time

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Seller ID: 124523 (Rebecca Yarbrough)
http://www.pizzakit.com/fundraising-products?shop=1&f=264985&s=124523

Become a Member of the Yankee Air Museum for Free Air Show Tickets!

It's that time of year again! The Thunder Over Michigan Air Show will be here in just a few short weeks and you won't want to miss a thing!! Yankee Air Museum Members receive an extra special treat, FREE ADMISSION into the Show!! It's every aviators dream to attend the Air Show every year, and is the perfect family fun outing for kids and adults alike! Why not enjoy the fun all year round with your Yankee Air Museum Membership, PLUS receive the added bonus of FREE Admission to the Air Show?
Not a member? But, you still want to receive FREE tickets to the 2013 Thunder Over Michigan Air Show? It's easy! If you sign-up for a membership by June 1st, 2013, they will mail you your FREE tickets for this year's event.

Free Ticket Breakdown:

• Each General membership receives 1 free General Admission ticket
• Each Family membership receives 2 free General Admission tickets
• Each Lifetime membership holder receives 4 free General Admission tickets and a free parking pass

Additional Member Benefits:

• Free Admission to our Museum that includes:
• Vietnam exhibit including our UH-1N Huey and F-4C Phantom
• Franklin PS-2 Glider manufactured in Ypsilanti
• Fully restored Ford built B-24 Liberator flight deck and much more!
• Discounts on B-17 Yankee Lady and B-25 Yankee Warrior flights
• Free admission to monthly Historic Presentation Nights
• Special member benefits at Yankee Air Museum events
• Family Fun Days
• Discounts in our Retail Shop
• Our monthly "Hangar Happenings"
• And meet people and families with similar interests

Please check our website for more details www.yankeeairmuseum.org/airshow.

Motorcycle Safety: Spring Brings New Hazards

As the snow melts away, the desire to experience the wind in your face gets stronger. Motorcyclists across the country are charging battery's, checking tire pressure, and putting a good coat of wax on their trusty steed. Making ready for that first warm afternoon, when they can get out on the highway. Harley's or Honda's, all motorcycle riders look forward to the first spring ride in the country.

Before you blast out of your driveway, a few safety reminders are worth going over. In your hurry to be the first on the road, you don't want to be the first to the hospital because you got in too much of a hurry.

We'll assume you prepared your motorcycle properly when you put it in storage for the winter. To make sure your cycle is ready to go, check all fluid levels, check tire pressures, and add some fresh gas. Charge up the battery, and hit the start button. With a well maintained motorcycle, this is about all that's necessary if you did your proper maintenance before winter storage.

The rest of your preparation has a lot to do with attitude. Being safe on the road depends primarily on how alert you are while riding, and how well you are paying attention to what's going on around you.

After a long winter, with road crews working long hours to keep the roads clear of ice and snow, there is a very dangerous residual leftover from the plowing process. That is the SAND the highway department used on roads. Loose sand is everywhere in the early Spring. Corners, intersections, main roads and side streets alike. This accumulation of sand presents a severe danger to all two wheeled vehicles.

Remember when you went into that long curve last Fall. The one where you leaned way over as you went through it. Leaning allowed you to navigate that long corner at a faster speed, plus it felt cool. If you make the mistake of leaning over and powering through that corner in the Spring, when some left over sand is still on the road, your wheels will slide out from under you. Road rash is very painful, sliding on asphalt will rapidly grind skin and meat off your body. Not a good experience.

Watch out for loose sand at intersections as well. Stopping too fast on a thin layer of sand will send you sliding into the intersection. Possibly into the path of cross traffic. If your tailgating a city bus, you may find yourself doing a face plant right into the back end of that bus.

The dreaded four wheeler, people driving cars have forgotten all about motorcycles over the past few months. Even in good weather in the middle of summer a motorcycle is almost invisible to cars. Headlights on can help, but it's vital that you ride with the attitude that everyone out there is trying to kill you. For all practical purposes they are, be it unintentional, but none the less tangling with a car is the last thing a motorcycle rider wants to do.

The inexperienced rider, new motorcycle owners will be out there in large quantities. With the price of gas reaching the stars, more and more people will be opting for the much cheaper to operate motorcycle for daily transportation. Not only should these new riders be extremely cautious as they have a lot to learn about safety, but the experienced rider can find themselves in trouble because of mistakes made by someone with little or no experience, that happens to be in their riding space.

When you head out on the road this spring, be aware. Know what's going on around you and give yourself enough space to safely navigate around dangers. Motorcycle riding is one of the best ways to experience what our country has to offer. Be sure you enjoy it safely.

As read on: http://voices.yahoo.com/motorcycle-safety-spring-brings-hazards-1321887.html

What to do when you get a Flat Tire...

Let's face it - no one wants to have a flat tire, especially when the end result is being stranded on the side of the road with other cars whizzing by almost smug in their four-good-wheel conditions. But there's more to flat tires than the annoyance and frustration they breed.

Anatomy of a Flat Tire

When a tire loses all of its air, it also loses its buoyancy and the ability to bear weight. Except in the sorts of tires known as "run flat," the sidewalls are too weak to support the weight of a vehicle without the added strength of air pressure.

Any tire, new or old, can go flat if it is punctured, or if it's leaking for some ofther reason. Generally speaking, the thicker treads on new tires are more resistant to punctures than older, worn-out treads, but those deeper treats can also increase the risk of a puncture if you drive over a nail or some other sharp object, by "channeling " the object deep between the treads.

Sometimes tires go flat when a vehicle has been sitting still for too long - weeks or months in a cold garage, for example - or if there's a slow leak. This is why it's a wise idea to make a visual inspection of all four of your car's tires before driving it.  Flat tires look sort of mushy, and may bulge slightly.

If a tire goes flat while you're driving, you'll hear and feel a thump-thump-thump vibration from your vehicle's suspension, and, at least in the case of a front tire, your vehicle will pull toward the side that has gone flat.

Do Not Drive

Either way, you should never continue driving on a flat. Without any internal air pressure the sidewalls of the tire will be pinched between the road and the wheel rim, and driving even as much as half a mile could be enough to either cut the tire, or damage the wheel.

This is equally important if the air pressure in your tire is merely low, and not completely gone. You can do serious damage to both the tire and the wheel, necessitating the replacement of both.
In addition to the risk to the tire and wheel, driving on an under-inflated or flat tire puts you at risk because your car will have less control, and things like turning will take more effort and offer less response. At the very least, you'll experience significant drag.

If You Get a Flat Tire While Driving

Slow down and pull over to the side of the road as soon as it's safe to do so. Never stop in the middle of the road, especially if you're on a busy highway - you're likely to get rear-ended or killed.
Put your car as far onto the right shoulder as you can, to reduce the risk of someone running into you. This also leaves room in case it's a tire on the left side of the car that must be changed.
Turn on your hazard lights, so other drivers will see you. It's also  a good idea to raise the hood, as this is a universal signal for help, and helps make the profile of your car bigger and more visible. If it's dark or foggy and you have a safety flare, warning light, or reflective triangle, place it a bit behind your vehicle as an additional alert to other drivers.
If you have the necessary tools to change your tire, go ahead and do so, being as swift and as sure as you can. If your spare tire is a "donut" - a smaller than average tire - be aware that it's meant for temporary use only.

If you don't have the right tools, either call your insurance company's or auto club's roadside assistance number, or call the police or highway patrol for help. If you're one of the five people left on the planet who don't have a cell phone, or if your cell phone has no signal, you may have to wait for someone to drive by, or hope that another driver offers assistance. Be careful with the latter. Most people are really kind and helpful, but some are much less scrupulous.
Wait for help outside the vehicle whenever possible, standing away from the road. If the neighborhood where you're stranded seems dangerous, or if there's inclement weather, stay inside your car.

After a Flat Tire

So you've changed your flat tire. Now what?

If you're driving on a donut, you'll want to bring your old tire to your mechanic or a local tire store to have it repaired (if possible) or replaced. Make sure that if you do this, you get the donut back, so that you can return it to you car, in case of another flat.

If the spare tire is simply an extra full-sized tire, have the old one repaired, or replace it, and store it as your "new" spare.

The tire that has been replaced will not have the same wear on its treads as the rest of your tires do, so be prepared for driving to feel a bit uneven. This may be a good time to consider having your tires rotated.

Flat tires are inconvenient, at best, and dangerous if they occur in the middle of a busy highway. Knowing what to expect and how to handle it doesn't reduce the annoyance, but it should help you approach your next flat tire with a bit more calm.

Article courtesy of: http://www.estatecarinsure.com/essays/flat_tires.htm

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel

Jeep last offered a diesel engine in the Grand Cherokee in 2009. Since then, Audi, BMW, Porsche, and Volkswagen have had a decent amount of success selling diesel-powered SUVs in the United States. Turbo-diesels are an ideal pairing with SUVs, offering V-8 torque with better-than-V-6 fuel economy. The new Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel 4x4, for instance, is rated at 21/28 mpg, while the 3.6-liter V-6 4x4 gets 17/24. The 5.7-liter V-8 4x4 produces 30 lb-ft less torque than the diesel and only manages 14/20 mpg. For comparison, the Porsche Cayenne Diesel is rated at 19/29 mpg, and the Volkswagen Touareg Diesel at 20/29.


Subjectively, the Grand Cherokee is comfortable and quiet, and the interior of the topline Summit trim is nearly too good for something expecting to see muddy boots on a regular basis. The dash and door panels are leather-wrapped, the infotainment system offers a Wi-Fi hotspot; and the overall feel is luxurious. The steering is a bit dead on-center and not nearly as precise or communicative as the VW or Porsche offerings, but exactly what you'd expect from a company known for focusing more on dirt than asphalt. The ride is firm and controlled, thanks in part to the air suspension, which allows a lower ride height for highway cruising while also providing up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance in Off-Road mode. Air suspension isn't offered on the VW and is a nearly $4000 option from Porsche. Around our figure eight, the Grand Cherokee returned a respectable 28.8-second lap averaging 0.59 g. A comparable 2011 Touareg TDI from our database did the same in 27.3 seconds at 0.65 g average.

 In a straight line, the Jeep closed the performance gap, managing a 7.8 second 0-60mph compared to the VW's 7.7 seconds. The quarter-mile showed similar results, with the Jeep running 16.0 seconds flat at 83.3 mph, while the VW turned in 15.9 seconds at 85.3 mph. The Jeep did, however, beat the VW in braking by a foot, stopping from 60 mph in 122 feet. It is worth noting the Grand Cherokee has a 339-pound weight disadvantage, tipping our scales at 5401 pounds. Like the VW's, the Jeep's performance comes from the 3.0-liter turbo diesel's brutish low-end torque. While 240 hp looks a bit wimpy on paper, the whopping 420 lb-ft of torque available at 2000 rpm makes power delivery smooth and instantaneous. As much as we love the engine, the real standout in the Grand Cherokee's family of drivetrains is the new ZF-sourced eight-speed transmission. Shifts are smooth and seamless in normal operation, but turn to fast and focused in Sport mode. 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ecodiesel Engine The Jeep is not quite as competent touring over asphalt as its German rivals, but that has never been Jeep's primary focus. With a choice of three different four-wheel-drive systems, adjustable ride height, and easily removable front and rear fasciae for improved approach and departure angles, the Grand Cherokee's off-road abilities are clearly a bit more of a priority. From a value perspective, the $56,990 Grand Cherokee is arguably better equipped than today's $60,050 2011 Touareg TDI Executive, if for no other reason than the air suspension. Several thousand dollars could be saved by buying the Limited trim of the Grand Cherokee, and that would likely be the choice if it were our money.

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1303_2014_jeep_grand_cherokee_ecodiesel_first_test/#ixzz2SlLW0ZHg