Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Spring

 

Automotive Car Care Service For The Spring

Spring is the perfect time to have Audia Chevrolet inspect your car and to ensure it's up to date with all required maintenance.    Below are a few basic tips to get you started for spring driving.

 

 

§  Hitting potholes can throw your car’s front end out of
    alignment. If your car is pulling when driving, then
    you may have a problem and need to have your 
    alignment checked.
§  Rain is a common spring driving hazard.  Tires can
    hydroplane on a layer of water; losing contact with
    the road and causing the vehicle to skid, slow down
    during a rain storm. 
§  Spring rain can also dampen visibility.   It’s important
    to check all vehicles operating lights.  These lights are
    important and help you to see, but also serve as a way
    to with other motorists. 

 

Cleaning the Dirt and Grim from Your Vehicle - 

Use these car washing tips & tricks

 

 

The warm weather is the perfect time to give your car a good cleaning inside and out.

1.  Use a sponge or mitt designed for automotive  use a
     lamb's wool mitt is ideal.




2.  Start at the top of the vehicle and move down; (the bottom accumulates the most dirt,
     and starting at the top will reduce the possibility of dragging dirt to the other parts of
     the car).
3.  To avoid scratching your paint, repeatedly clean your wash rag and refill the bucket
     water if it's very dirty.
4.  Use a different wash rag for your car than your tires.
5.  In the same manner that you washed from the top to the bottom, spray off the soap
     starting at the top and move down the vehicle.
6.  Spray the wheel wells thoroughly as well as underneath the vehicle to remove dirt
     and debris.
7.  Avoid water spotting by drying the car immediately with a chamois or a 100% cotton
     terry cloth towel.
8.  For finishing touches, a microfiber cloth works nicely.

Try This:
 -  Wash your car in a cool, shady area to avoid streaking and to reduce water spotting.
 -  Use car wash soap and not dish soap (some soaps can strip the wax and damage the
     finish).
 -  Fill a large bucket with lots of water.  Dirt will settle to the bottom, cleaner water will
    stay at the top.
 -  To remove stubborn stains such as insects, road tar, tree sap and bird droppings, try
     using undiluted car wash soap.  Using a sponge, apply the product full strength directly
     onto the spots, let penetrate for 3-5 minutes then wash off with water.

Visit Audia Chevy website and book your appointment today.

Celebrating Earth Day - April 22

Enjoy The Day Explore the Estates of the Hudson Valley

Since Henry Hudson sailed the Half Moon up the Hudson River in 1609, great men and women have been drawn to the Hudson Valley's bounty and beauty. Politicians, artists, businessmen and socialites built fabulous estates up and down the river's banks, each adding their own unique contributions to the area's collective history. As members of the American aristocracy, these modern settlers were able to hire the best architects, landscape artists, and decorators to build their palaces.

Their legacy includes some of the finest examples of several historic styles of architecture, landscaping, and interiors, from the early Federal period to the numerous revival styles of the late 19th and early 20th century. It is our great fortune that many of these estates have been meticulously restored and lovingly maintained to recreate each home's historical and cultural significance, as well as personal character. The estates along the river recreate a history not only of the Hudson Valley, but of the United States, contained in a many layered contextual experience.

There is a rich history wrapped around the men and women who settled along the Hudson River. Statesmen and politicians called the Valley home, including Franklin D. Roosevelt, whose estate at Hyde Park was both his refuge and his final resting place. Several estates in the Mid-Hudson region are connected with various branches of the Livingston family, whose members included war heroes, political figures, and one of the five authors of the Declaration of Independence (who, incidentally, swore in George Washington as the first president of the United States).

The Mills and Vanderbilt families were at the center of New York society life at the turn of the last century, their estates redolent with the opulence of the American Renaissance. The Hudson Valley's lush landscapes drew artists to its beauty, inspiring the Hudson River School of Painting. Some of the finest known examples of this artistic movement are on display in Olana, home of Frederick Church.

The estates in the Valley are as varied as the people who built them. From Clermont's Federal austerity to Lyndhurst's Gothic castle, popular trends in American living over the course of our history are represented here, in their finest state. Unparalleled architecture in a diversity of styles, exquisite landscaping and gardening, and superior collections of artwork, furnishings, historical archives, china and silver, textiles and other treasures are maintained in their period condition. The residences are replete with familial details and personal possessions that convey a sense of home, a memory of having been lived in, and a deeper understanding for the people who lived there. At times, it feels as though the family has just stepped out for a walk, giving the visitor a chance to poke around the house before they return.

Several organizations oversee the estates of the Hudson Valley, providing the attention to detail and dedication to preservation that allows these wonderful estates to flourish in modern times. Historic Hudson Valley, a nonprofit organization started by John D. Rockefeller, Jr., oversees the Sleepy Hollow region estates of Sunnyside, Philipsburg Manor, Kykuit, and Van Cortlandt Manor, as well as the Montgomery Place estate in Annandale-On-Hudson.

New York State's Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation maintains Clermont, Olana, and Mills Mansion, while estates such as the three Roosevelt homes known as Springwood, Val-Kill and Top Cottage, plus Locust Grove and Lindenwald are operated by the National Park Service. Others are supported as National Trust Historic Sites, or maintained privately.

If you are planning a visit to one of these sites, it is recommended that you call ahead to confirm the day and time of the visit, as well as to make reservations if necessary. During the summer weekends, and during fall foliage season, some sites may sell out for the day early on. As well, school and group tours may restrict public access at certain times. With many of the homes clustered near each other, a day trip can easily include more than one site. Bring a picnic with you, as many of the sites offer spectacular grounds but no food services. Cameras and video cameras are welcomed on the grounds, but indoor photography may be restricted. Most of the homes and grounds offer wheelchair access to some extent, call ahead with specific needs. Music and art festivals, horticultural tours, and historical programs are among the special events offered at many of the estates, enhancing the experience while educating and entertaining the visitor. Whether looking for a scenic afternoon stroll, an architectural tour, or a step back into American history, a wonderful experience awaits at the estates of the Hudson Valley.

Boscobel (Garrison)

Originally built in Crugers, NY in 1804 by States Morris Dyckman, a British Loyalist who returned to the area after the Revolutionary War was over. When threatened by extinction in the early decades of this century, this Federal Domestic style mansion was dismantled, stored, and finally reassembled piece by piece in its current location. The house is filled with a comprehensive collection of American Federal period antiques and art. The well appointed grounds include a rose garden with scores of different varieties. Many special events and performances are held every year at Boscobel, including the renowned Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival, held every summer on the front lawn of the estate. 1601 Route 9D, Garrison, NY 10524, 845-265-3638 http://www.boscobel.org Admission fee.

Clermont (Germantown)

Clermont has been occupied by seven generations of the influential and affluent Livingston family, including Robert R. Livingston, Jr. One of the five men who authored the Declaration of Independence, Livingston swore in George Washington as the new nation's first president. His first mansion, a brick Georgian, was burned by the British troops advancing up the Hudson in 1775. The home was rebuilt soon after, and remodeled in the 1920's to the Colonial Revival that now stands. The interior boasts the intact belongings of the Livingston family, including a collection of portraiture of a great variety of styles and media, and sculptures from near and abroad. The roster of special events at the site include croquet tournaments on the lawns, antique shows, and the Heritage Blues Festival. 1 Clermont Ave. (Off of Route 9G), Germantown, NY 12526, 518-537-4240, http://www.friendsofclermont.org. Admission fee.

Glenview (Yonkers)

Part of the Hudson River Museum of Westchester complex, which includes the Hudson River Museum and the Andrus Planetarium. The restored Victorian mansion, completed in 1877, is a restoration work in progress. Glenview is recognized as one of the best examples of Eastlake interior styling, including extensive stenciling and woodwork inspired by motifs of nature. Thus far, four rooms have been restored to their turn of the century condition, including the magnificently tiled Great Hall. Visitors can also experience the five galleries of exhibits in the Hudson River Museum, and the regular schedule of events held at the Andrus Planetarium. 511 Warburton Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10701-1899, 914-963-4550, http://www.hrm.org. Admission fee.

Kykuit (Sleepy Hollow)

One of the Rockefeller family homes, Kykuit's imposing granite Georgian mansion rises above a series of stone terraces and formal gardens. The Beaux Arts landscape is home to Governor Nelson Rockefeller's extensive collection of 20th century sculpture, which includes works by Calder, Picasso, and Noguchi. Separate tours of the gardens and sculpture are offered to highlight this collection. In addition to the furnished home and formal gardens, a Coach barn houses the Rockefeller's antique automobiles and horse-drawn carriages. Tours of Kykuit begin at Phillipsburg Manor on Route 9 in Sleepy Hollow. 914-631-8200, www.hudsonvalley.org/content/view/12/42/. Admission fee.

Lindenwald (Kinderhook)

Born in Kinderhook, Martin Van Buren, the Eighth president of the United States, retired there to Lindenwald at the end of his presidency. Van Buren purchased an existing estate in 1839 and immediately had it remodeled from the "old fashioned" Federal style to the popular Italianate revival style. The home and furnishings are restored to its condition during Van Buren's stay there. Lindenwald hosts an extensive museum collection, including textiles, furnishings, and a large collection of historic wallpaper. Several archeological sites on the property have produced artifacts that are on display. 1013 Old Post Road, Kinderhook, NY 12106, 518-758-968, http://www.nps.gov/mava Admission fee.

Locust Grove (Poughkeepsie)

Samuel F.B. Morse, an accomplished artist and inventor, is best known for inventing both the telegraph and Morse Code. In 1847, Morse purchased an estate complete with a Georgian-style mansion he quickly converted to a Tuscan Villa with the help of architect A.J. Davis. Later owners added to the structure and interiors, while striving to preserve its 19th century flavor. Collections of art and furnishings of both families fill the home, including the Morse Exhibition Room, which features a copy of the original telegraph model. 150 acres of grounds surround the house, landscaped largely by Morse himself. A haven to wildlife, the property includes miles of walking trails, spectacular river views, and stands of trees that have stood since Morse walked the grounds. 370 South Road (Route 9), P.O. Box 1649, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, 845-454-4500 http://www.morsehistoricsite.org, Admission fee.

Lyndhurst (Tarrytown)

With turrets, battlements, and a majestic tower, Lyndhurst stands as a Gothic castle guarding the Hudson. Commissioned in 1838 by the mayor of New York City, General William Paulding, architect A.J. Davis constructed a Greek Revival fortress of massive proportions. Subsequent owner George Merritt hired Davis again to add a four story tower and other additions to the castle. Railroad Magnate Jay Gould purchased the estate years later, making his own changes to the house and grounds. Now a property of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Lyndhurst is surrounded by classic estate landscaping that includes a magnificent greenhouse and aviary. 635 South Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591, 914-631-4481 http://www.Lyndhurst.org. Admission fee.

Staatsburgh (Mills Mansion in Staatsburgh)

When the nouveaux riche Ogden Mills married the aristocratic Ruth Livingston, a fortune and legacy was born. The estate they left behind is a monument to the Gilded Age of society and wealth at the turn of the last century. Built around an existing inherited mansion in 1895, the 65 room Autumn Residence of the Mills family showcases Beaux Arts neoclassical styling and elaborate French and English furnishings. The Mills were the center of New York society, and the opulence of their surroundings echoed their position. The interior boasts lavish furnishings, largely in the 17th and 18th century French style, combined with paintings and artifacts that reflect the family's deep pride in its American heritage. Old Post Road, Staatsburg, NY 12580, 845-889-8851. Admission fee. www.nysparks.state.ny.us/historic-sites/25/details.aspx

Montgomery Place (Annandale-On-Hudson)

Established in 1804-1805 by Janet Livingston Montgomery, widow of Revolutionary War hero General Richard Montgomery, and descendent of the legendary Livingston family. Noted architect A.J. Davis created this magnificent Federal mansion, while Mrs. Montgomery established a profitable nursery. Montgomery Place features elaborate gardens, a restored greenhouse, and an orchard where visitors can still pick their own fruit. Trails wind through the estate, creating enchanting views at every turn. The interior offers original family furnishings and artworks, artifacts of this great family's history, and an intimate look at the working side of a flourishing estate. River Road, off Route 9G, Annandale-On-Hudson, NY 12571, 845-758-5461, or contact Historic Hudson Valley at 914-631-8200, http://www.hudsonvalley.org/content/view/16/46/ Admission fee.

Olana (Hudson)

Noted Hudson River painter Frederic Church's magnificent Persian palace stands as one of his greatest works of art. Influenced by Church's extensive travel in the Middle East and Europe, coupled with his aesthetic appreciation of the Valley, Olana is a masterpiece of both architecture and landscape. All of the original possessions of the family have been placed as they were in Church's day. Exquisite paintings by Frederic Church, and his teacher Thomas Cole, are juxtaposed with worldly artifacts in an interior whose stencil-work and paint make it an artwork in itself. The grounds reveal devout attention to the property's stunning natural beauty, made all the more wondrous with carefully designed landscaping in the Romantic style. RD 2, Route 9G, Hudson, NY 12534 518-828-0135, http://www.olana.org. Admission fee.

Philipsburg Manor, Upper Mills (Sleepy Hollow)

This early 18th century farm and trading center was once part of a 52,000 acre estate owned by the Philipse family who had emigrated to New Amsterdam from Holland. The property includes a Dutch-style stone manor house, barn and a restored gristmill. Tours and demonstrations are offered, as well as special events throughout the year. Route 9, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 (914) 631-8200. http://www.hudsonvalley.org/content/view/14/44/.

Springwood (Hyde Park)

America's 32nd president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, was born here, lived much of his life here, and was buried here after his death in 1945. His mansion, known as Springwood, was built in the Georgian Colonial style in the early 1800's, with several renovations since bringing it to its current state. The burial site of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt is graced with a simple monument in a lovely rose garden. Formal busts of FDR and contemporary sculptures are tucked into scenic spots throughout the landscape. Also on the site is the F.D.R. Library and Museum, which contains many historic documents and belongings of the President and First Lady. Special educational and historical programs are offered. 519 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538, 845-229-9115, http://www.nps.gov/hofr. Admission fee.

Sunnyside (Tarrytown)

Author Washington Irving immortalized the Hudson Valley in his tales of Sleepy Hollow. He also settled here, in his Dutch Plantation style home, Sunnyside. Built around an existing cottage in 1835, the house evokes the Dutch architecture of his native New York City, but with a fanciful touch. The entrance is framed in wisteria planted by Irving, as was the English Ivy that covers much of the structure. Sunnyside is filled with an eclectic variety of furnishings and decorations, including Irving's intact study complete with his two-sided writing desk. The grounds are landscaped in the Romantic style, flowing out of the surroundings. Special events are frequent and include 19th century style picnics, art events, and of course, good old-fashioned storytelling of Irving's works. West Sunnyside Lane, off of Route 9, Tarrytown, NY 10591, 914-591-8763 or contact Historic Hudson Valley at 914-631-8200 http://www.hudsonvalley.org/content/view/13/43/. Admission fee.

Val-Kill (Hyde Park)

Part of a group of historical estates that includes Springwood and the Vanderbilt Mansion, Val-Kill's charming Dutch Colonial cottage was built for Eleanor Roosevelt on a favorite streamside spot on the Roosevelt estate. Built in 1926, this fieldstone home was to become her sanctuary from the hectic pace of the presidency, as well as refuge from the formality of the main house on the estate. No small share of dignitaries passed through its doors, including Khrushchev, Winston Churchill, and Haile Selassie. The property includes Eleanor's Rose Garden, a Cutting Garden, and the furnished cottage. Historical programs serve to educate visitors about this most influential first lady. 519 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538, 845-229-9115, http://www.nps.gov/elro. Admission fee.

Van Cortlandt Manor (Croton-On-Hudson)

Purchased by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in the 1940's, Van Cortlandt Manor is preserved as it was in the earliest years of the United States. The stone manor is flanked by a rebuilt tavern, and restored tenant house. Demonstrations of period activities including cooking, spinning, weaving, and brickmaking bring the site alive with activity. Tours of the manor by costumed guides include many original period furnishings and a spacious kitchen with a traditional open hearth and beehive oven. Riverside Avenue, Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520, 914-271-8981, or contact Historic Hudson Valley at 914-631-8200, http://www.hudsonvalley.org/content/view/15/45/. Admission fee.

Vanderbilt Mansion (Hyde Park)

Built by the third generation of Vanderbilt millionaires, this neoclassic style mansion was completed in 1899. Long accustomed to wealth, Frederick Vanderbilt had his home designed by the best architects in New York, and furnished it in fabulous artifacts from abroad mixed with period reproductions. The estate, inside and out, offers a great perspective of the wealth and excess of the Gilded Age and one of its most prominent families. From the columned porch at the rear of the mansion, one can view one of the most majestic river views in the area. Several species of enormous, old trees grace the grounds, and formal gardens on the property have been recently restored to their former splendor. 519 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538, 845-229-9115, http://www.nps.gov/vama. Admission fee.

Wilderstein (Rhinebeck)

Built originally in the Italian villa style, this stunning Victorian was remodeled to a Queen Anne in the 1880's. Its circular tower soars five stories above a landscape created by noted American Romantic landscape artist Calvert Vaux. The library is host to incredible stained glass pieces by J.B. Tiffany. Long time home to the Suckley family, Wilderstein's charm is not only in its looks. The last member of the Suckley family to call Wilderstein home, known to friends as "Daisy" was a cousin and lifelong confidant of Franklin D. Roosevelt, serving as his archivist and companion. Her papers and memorabilia, along with that of her family, create an intimate and social history of past times. Morton Road, PO Box 383, Rhinebeck, NY 12572, 845-876-4818, http://www.wilderstein.org. Admission fee.

Tips For Parents of New Drivers

With these resources, you’ll feel better about handing over the keys to the Traverse

 

 

One of a teenager’s most exciting rites of passage is when they learn how to drive. For the parents of teens, however, this time is a little less exciting and a whole lot more nerve-racking. Thankfully, there’s a lot that parents can do to help their teenagers take this important step as responsibly and safely as possible. Check out the tips below, and breathe a little easier next time your teenager asks to borrow the family Traverse.

 

 

Learn Your State’s Graduated Driver’s Licensing Laws

Since the 1990s, nearly every state in the nation has passed graduated driver’s licensing laws (GDL laws), which put restrictions on new drivers until they gain more experience behind the wheel. These restrictions include limiting the number of passengers, imposing a curfew for driving at night and banning any and all cell phone usage. Parents should learn the specific GDL laws in their state (detailed here), and make sure their teenager follows them—no ifs, ands or buts.

Sign a Parent/Teen Agreement

It’s a smart idea for parents and their teenager to sign a Parent/Teen Agreement, which spells out the restrictions, privileges, rules and consequences of driving. This agreement puts parents and their teens on the same page (literally), and makes expectations clear from the beginning. For best results, parents must consistently enforce the agreed-upon consequences, and being able to point to a signed document definitely makes doing that a whole lot easier.

Ask for a “Flight Plan”

Studies have shown that teenagers have fewer accidents when driving somewhere specific as opposed to “joy riding” with no set destination. This is why it’s wise for parents to insist that their teenager never gets behind the wheel without filing a “flight plan.” Teens don’t have to be wearing aviator glasses, of course, but they do have to communicate to their parents exactly where they’re going and when they’ll be home.

Always Model Good Driving

Remember that anti-drug PSA from the 1980s where a kid shouted at his dad, “I learned it from watching you” at his dad? Well, teenagers learn how to drive by watching their parents, too. If you focus on driving the speed limit, following the rules of the road, and avoiding distractions, the only time your teen will say “I learned it from watching you” is when you ask them how they’ve become such an incredible driver.

Make Consequences of Drinking and Driving Clear

Teenagers understand that drinking and driving is dangerous, but they’re often unaware of how much a drunk driving conviction would impact their lives. Parents should explain to their teen that most states have zero tolerance for drivers under 21, which means they will have their license suspended if a breathalyzer test detects even a blood alcohol level of .01. Additionally, parents should walk their teen through the thousands of dollars of fees and costs associated with a DUI, and how it will impact their insurance for 3-5 years. With teenagers, the prospect of losing their license as well as their spending cash may be the biggest deterrents of all.

Discuss Distractions

Today’s teenagers have serious distractions behind the wheel. The most serious of these distractions is texting while driving. To demonstrate just how dangerous it is, parents can show their teenagers anti texting-and-driving videos available online, and ask them to take the “It Can Wait” pledge, which proclaims that “no text is worth the risk.” Teenagers can even upload their pledge to Facebook.

Resources

Here are a few resources parents should check out before handing over the car keys to their teenager:
“Teen Driver: A Family Guide To Teen Safety” was created by The National Safety Council and General Motors, and is full of in-depth, indispensable information.
“From Reid’s Dad: A Blog For Parents Of Teen Drivers” is full of resources and reflections written by Tim Hollister, who lost his teenage son, Reid, in a car accident.
“The Good Egg Guide For Parents of New Drivers” aims to “help keep your sons and daughters safer behind the wheel.”

The trademarks mentioned in this story are held by their respective owners.
Heather Spohr is a writer and philanthropist who blogs at the award-winning
The Spohrs Are Multiplying.

The Importance of Earnest Service

Service of an Expert Salesman....


When an improved product and expert salesman mesh, it’s a pleasure to spend money. For a service fanatic, it’s poetry to behold–like dancing with a star.

This happened to us the other week when Barry Lang from Audia Chevrolet in Millbrook, NY called to tell us our lease had expired on our Chevy Malibu. My husband Homer Byington, not a car enthusiast, was impressed by the negotiation.  He said, “I knew I had to do something about the lease, and Barry got to me before I reached out to Audia Chevrolet.  There was plenty of time to make a decision: buy the car we’d driven for three years or lease a new one.

“He could tell I was technologically illiterate and conducted his sales pitch in language I could understand,” said Homer.  "He also priced his offer competitively, not taking advantage of me.” Homer had checked with a family member in a related business who confirmed the lease price was fair. 

Meanwhile, while we liked the 2010 Malibu we turned in, it had its faults, every one of which was addressed in the 2013 auto. The designers reduced the size of the side view mirror that previously had been so big that at certain angles I had to practically stand up in my seat while making a left hand turn for fear of running over someone hidden behind the device. The windshield seems bigger and the rear headrests smaller increasing visibility. Chevy also removed a lump that housed a break light at eye level for the cars behind, which took away rear window visibility for the driver. And it added handles above each door as a standard feature and enlarged the glove compartment.

Back to Barry. He was patient with our questions, explaining how the car’s Bluetooth system worked and other features basic for most but unfamiliar to us. We took a week to decide whether to buy or lease again and a car in the color we liked–a blue/gray–was still there on our return. When we noted this Barry said he’d reserved it for us.

We’ve written previously about how friends and family members have been treated dismissively and disrespectfully by showroom staff selling highfalutin brands with hefty price tags. We don’t think Barry could make someone feel diminished; arrogance isn’t his style yet he could sell high end products with equal success.

If you drop in to Audia Chevrolet, my bet is that one of the Audia brothers will be there. One brother, Peter, chatted with us briefly last Saturday before we signed up and this Saturday Bob handed me my permanent NY State registration. During the week someone at Audia had paid for and picked it up at Motor Vehicles.

Can you share a boast about a similar sales experience for any product?

6 Responses to “Service of an Expert Salesman”

1. April 8th, 2013 Lucrezia Said:

I’m the wrong person to ask since I know what I want 99.99% of the time and have a practiced deaf ear towards spiels. As to the remaining fraction of a percent, the ear is listening because of personal like, not because of ablity to sell.

2. April 8th, 2013 Jeanne Byington Said:

That’s what was so amazing about Barry–no spiel. He didn’t try to sell us stuff we’d have no interest in–he listened to Homer and didn’t try to ride over him with blah blah.

3. April 8th, 2013 Lisa McGee Said:

Well, if I am ever in a position to turn in my hunk of junk for a new improved model – I certainly hope to have an experience like this – sounds refreshingly pleasant as does your new car!!

4. April 8th, 2013 Jeanne Byington Said:

Lisa,

Speaking with someone through the car’s Bluetooth system is the strangest thing! Oh, and while we were out earlier today, my husband said that Barry called and left a message. He wanted to know how we liked the car.

 

5. April 8th, 2013 JPM Said:

Like your husband, I’m technologically impaired, but I’m also automotively illiterate. I know that this is un-American, I don’t even know the names of most car brands. Naturally, car salesmen see me coming miles away.

The first car I ever bought, a used one at that – I remember it didn’t have a roof and was American – was so overpriced that when I moved to New York a year and a half later and had to sell it, I had to pay the car company $1,800 (and that was when $1,800 was a lot of money) to take it back.

The second, and last one I ever bought, was in Brooklyn almost thirty years ago. I didn’t care what the thing looked like, or how fast it would go, only that it would go. Also, I was working a sixty hour week then and couldn’t afford to take days off to get it serviced. The salesman swore that his dealership serviced the vehicles it sold, properly and at a fair price. All I had to do was leave it off at the dealer when I went to work and pick it up on my way home. Like a dope, I believed him, but the first time I showed up for service, having made an appointment, I was told to go away and that they “were busy serving customers.” And when I tried to find the salesman, he was nowhere to be found.

Fortunately, we had a friendly gas station in the neighborhood where we lived run by a man who owned and flew his own airplane. Those were the days when you made more money pumping gas than working in a bank. How times have changed.

Indeed they must have, if your Barry is typical of today’s salesmen. What a great experience! I’m almost tempted to buy a car myself, if it feels as good as all that.

6. April 8th, 2013 Jeanne Byington Said:

JPM,

I wish that Barry was typical of today’s salesmen. If he were, I wouldn’t have all the grumpy posts that I sprinkle in with the others. It’s a joy to write about someone who does his job well. In fact, I keep thinking of other things he did right but I had to stop–who would believe me?

 

Thoughts from JM Byington & Associates, Inc.

  

2014 Silverado Delivers Power, Efficiency and Value

News Release: Monday, April 1, 2013

-  Best fuel economy of any V-8 
   pickup – EPA estimated
   23 mpg highway
-  Better fuel economy than
   2013 Ford EcoBoost V-6
-  Base prices carry over from 
   current models



DETROIT – Chevrolet today announced initial pricing, performance data, and EPA fuel efficiency estimates for the 2014 Silverado 1500, raising the bar in the fiercely competitive light-duty pickup segment.

Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for the new 2014 Silverado regular cab will start at $24,585, including a $995 destination freight charge, the same base price as the 2013 model. For that price, the 2014 Silverado regular cab, which starts production this summer, will include a number of major improvements

Get full details here: 2014 Silverado