CMU Tailgating Tips and Activities

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– Fire Up Chips! The Central Michigan Chippewas made sure to start the season with the nail-biting action they're known for. Whether you're heading out to the next home game or you're planning on enjoying a game later in the season, these CMU tailgating tips and activities will make your tailgating experience unforgettable. From fun tailgating activities to packing and grilling tips, you'll be able to experience everything Kelly/Shorts Stadium has to offer this season!

Pack the Essentials

Tailgating with a group? We've put together a list of the items you'll need for your tailgate.

• Grill, spatula, tongs, matches, lighter
• Charcoal
• Trash bags
• Paper towels
• Plates & plastic silverware
• Rain ponchos (just in case!)
• Jumper cables
• Wet wipes
• Cutting board
• Canopy tent
• Foldable lawn chairs
• Cooler
• Frozen water bottles (helps to keep your food cold in the cooler)
• First aid kit

Pack Your Cooler

Next, you'll want to make sure you pack your cooler in the most efficient way possible! Use the handy image above to create room for everything you need, from food to beverages. Throw a few frozen water bottles in your cooler to slow the ice from melting and make sure you pack it as tight as you can so that warm air can't seep in!

Bring Tailgate Games

Heading to the tailgate with friends or family? Bring along some favorite tailgate games to occupy the time until the Chips take the field. Cornhole is a great tailgate classic that's easy to learn and even easier to set up. If you don't know the rules, follow this step-by-step guide for quick and simple instructions. Other games, like lawn golf, Kan Jam, and even a simple game of catch are tailgate games that everyone will enjoy!

Enjoy Free Giveaways

Every year, the CMU football team and local businesses hold promotions and giveaways at tailgates before the game. You can grab free hot dogs from Dog Central's tent and check out some of the freebies that local businesses hand out to tailgaters. Keep an eye on the football schedule for t-shirt and merchandise giveaways. Businesses have also been known to give away sunglasses, sweatshirts, and many other items.

Beat Traffic by Cooking After the Game

After the game is all said and done, you can avoid sitting in traffic by relaxing and cooking up whatever you have left on the grill! It'll save you time and keep everyone full.

Be Safe and Have Fun

Most importantly, make sure that you and your fellow tailgaters have a safe and fun time! Read up on the CMU Tailgating Policy before you head out to the game to make sure you don't break any rules. If you need a tailgating pass or a sound permit, make sure you fill out the applications for them,. Contact the CMU Police if you have any questions on rules or ordinances put out for specific tailgates. If you follow the rules and cooperate with the police, you're bound to have a great time at Kelly/Shorts Stadium!

Tailgating season is the one of the best at Central Michigan University. With the weather cooling down and the leaves turning that maroon and gold color, the campus and football stadium come to life in the fall. Using our CMU tailgating tips and activities, you'll be sure to enjoy a fun, safe, and unbeatable time at Kelly/Shorts Stadium this year. Make sure your vehicle is ready to take on the tailgating season by scheduling a check-up. You don't want your vehicle breaking down before or after the game! If you need any routine maintenance or repairs performed on your vehicle, browse our coupons to obtain discounts on oil changes, brake pads, and more. Enjoy the game and Fire Up Chips!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

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CMU Game Day Traditions

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– On Thursday, August 31st, Central Michigan University will be kicking off the football season against the Rhode Island Rams! This season is sure to be full of surprises as the Chippewas make use of their new quarterbacks and improved roster. The Central-Western game, Homecoming, and other adrenaline-pumping games will be sure to satisfy Chippewa fans across the country. Take a look at CMU game day traditions and what diehard fans of the famous maroon and gold enjoy throughout the football season!

Battle for the Cannon

Every year, Central Michigan and Western Michigan battle for their annual rivalry game. The winner takes home "The Cannon", a trophy which pays tribute to the two cannons sitting atop Kelly/Shorts Stadium and Waldo Stadium. Last year, Western took home the Cannon, but this year, CMU has made it their goal to reclaim the one-of-a-kind trophy once again. The Central-Western game will take place on the Chips' home turf this year, giving them a chance to beat the Broncos at Kelly/Shorts Stadium once again!

Homecoming Parade

Starting from the football field and ending in downtown Mt. Pleasant, the annual homecoming parade involves the band, color guard, local businesses, student organizations, and more as they make their way downtown! This annual tradition brings out the best in everyone's game day spirits, as candy, maroon and gold themed items are handed out to audience participants. You can even follow the parade through their journey for an unforgettable experience!

Cardboard Boat Race

Every year, the Industrial Engineering students construct cardboard boats and sail them across the Rose Pond on Homecoming for a heated competition to become the reigning champs of the Cardboard Boat Race. The race occurs on the morning of Homecoming and always attracts quite the large crowd. You'll be able to watch students fight, paddle, and push their way across Rose Pond as they try to make it without sinking. You won't want to miss this fun-filled event! 

Kelly/Shorts In-Game Traditions

Kelly/Shorts Stadium is full of in-game traditions, too! With plenty of singalong songs, t-shirt giveaways, and the loud and proud maroon and gold as far as the eye can see, CMU's stadium is full of fun for everyone! These are a few of CMU's best in-game traditions at Kelly/Shorts Stadium:

• Key Play: During important plays in the game, students and fans will take their keys out and shake them for the entire play to build hype with the audience and team.
• Cymbal Crash: Many students participate in this tradition, joining along with the band as they crash their cymbals back and forth! The "cymbal crash" is done with an up and down clapping motion to mimic the cymbal crashes.
• Cannon Shot: Whenever CMU scores in the game, the ROTC students fire a cannon to signify that the Chips are winning the game!
• Tree Ceremony: Overlooking the stadium itself on Rose Hill, the Bradford Pear tree atop the hill has been the post-game ceremony spot for the marching band during each game day, whether it's a triumphant victory or somber defeat.
• CMU Fight Song: Everyone, whether diehard fans or first time lovers of the game can enjoy CMU's one-of-a-kind fight song! Learn the song before your next game today:

FIGHT Central, down the field,
FIGHT for Victory, FIGHT, Fellows never yield;
We're with you, oh Varsity.
Onward with banners bold, to our colors we'll be true,
FIGHT for Maroon and Gold, Down the field for C.M.U.!

VARSITY! Rah! Rah! VICTORY! Rah! Rah!
CHIPPEWA we're proud of that nickname.
Hear our song loud and strong,
CENTRAL is going to win this game!
Come on and...(Repeat thru "C.M.U.!")


This year, the Central Michigan Chippewas will only be hosting five home games for the season, spending the rest of their time at away games across the country. If you're planning on heading to Kelly/Shorts Stadium this year, make sure you follow these CMU game day traditions to make the most of your time during this upcoming season! Find out how Graff Mt. Pleasant involves itself within the Central Michigan community and how they give back to the amazing town of Mt. Pleasant. While you're at it, stop by our dealership to get a great deal on a new vehicle to start the college season off right this year!


At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

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Have Your Vehicle Serviced at Graff Mt. Pleasant

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– Whether you need routine maintenance or more extensive repairs, have your vehicle serviced at Graff Mt. Pleasant for efficient, quick, and affordable service! In no time, you'll be reunited with your newly serviced vehicle. It'll run as good as new after our Service Staff takes care of any repairs your vehicle may require. Take a look at what sets us apart from the average dealership or auto body shop. If you're in need of service, schedule an appointment with us to get your vehicle looked at right away!

We Service Any Make and Model

Whether you own a Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, or vehicle of another make or model, we can service it at any time! We're happy to help you at Graff Mt. Pleasant with any oil change, realigned suspension, or other form of maintenance your vehicle may need. Stop by our Service Center if you have any questions or concerns, and our helpful staff will make sure that your vehicle is properly cared for in a quick and efficient manner!

Coupons for Maintenance

At Graff Mt. Pleasant, we want to make sure you get the best deal possible when you bring your vehicle in for service. Take a look at our coupons page to save big on oil changes, battery replacements, inspections, and more! Make sure you print your coupons before you head in for service, though, as they are only valid when they're printed. Our coupons are regularly updated and are only valid at specific locations. Make sure you view our coupons page before you print out a coupon and bring it in for service.

Extended Warranty Options Available

Protect your vehicle and its components with an extended warranty plan, courtesy of your friends at Graff Mt. Pleasant! Our extended vehicle warranty coverage can save you money on unexpected costs with repairs or maintenance. The best part is, if you purchase a vehicle with us, you can save additional money as our extended warranty plans come at a discount for new vehicle owners. We offer a wide variety of extended warranty plans for anyone of any income, so make sure you check out our options to see what works best for you!

Accident Assistance

If you happen to find yourself in an accident and require assistance, call us at Graff Mt. Pleasant and we can get your vehicle towed right away! We'll give you a ride to our Service Center and get your vehicle in the shop right away. We can also provide you with a loaner vehicle if you require it and can give you a ride to our Service Center from your home if need be. Take a look at our Collision Center & Auto Body Service page to find out what we can do to help you through any accident, no matter how big or small!

Schedule Service Online

With our quick and convenient website, you can schedule your service appointment for your vehicle without leaving your couch! Plan your vehicle's inspection and appointment around your schedule with our easy-to-navigate service scheduler. You can specify what types of services are needed, what days work best for you, and you can choose between our Chevrolet and Buick GMC Cadillac dealership for quick and easy convenience!

The next time your vehicle needs service, whether it's routine or not, have your vehicle serviced at Graff Mt. Pleasant! Our knowledgeable and General Motors-Certified Service Staff can have your vehicle inspected, repaired, and ready to go in no time. You'll be back on the road before you know it! Schedule your appointment online or give us a call today to plan your next service appointment as soon as possible. Bring it in to either of our dealerships today to have it inspected so you can safely return to the road with a ready-to-go vehicle.

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

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Special Edition Chevy Vehicles at Graff Mt. Pleasant

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– Want to stand out both on and off the road in your next vehicle? Our Special Edition Chevy vehicles at Graff Mt. Pleasant can help you achieve a look different from everyone else. Whether you're looking for a Chevrolet Silverado, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox, or other Chevy vehicle, add a personal touch with one of Chevy's Special Editions for advanced performance, unique design touches, and more!

While we don't always have these particular models in stock, you can order any Special Edition Chevrolet through our dealership! It's our goal to get you a vehicle perfect for your personal taste and style. Some vehicles come with not only exclusive design elements you wont see anywhere else, some come with special tires, brakes, and even new engines. Some of the Special Editions we think you'll be interested in include: 

• Redline - Camaro, Cruze, Trax, Malibu, Traverse, Colorado, Equinox, and Silverado
• Midnight - Silverado HD, Tahoe, Equinox, and Suburban
• Rally Sports Truck (RST) - Tahoe and Suburban
• RealTree - Silverado
• Custom Sport HD - Silverado

Make sure to take a look as these Special Edition models on our website to learn more about what special features are included, what the vehicle looks like, and what performance components were added to the stock model. If you see one you're interested in, or if you're ready to put in an order for one of these unique Chevrolet Special Edition vehicles, let our team know by filling out the form on the page! Whether it's a specific color vehicle you want, or one with a certain convenience feature, we can help find it for you at Graff Mt. Pleasant Chevrolet.

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

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Download the 2017 GMC Yukon XL Brochure

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– Give you and your family, friends, and crew an unparalleled off-road experience with the new 2017 GMC Yukon XL. With upgraded towing, cargo capacity, and improved cargo space, find out what this SUV can offer you and your crew by downloading the 2017 GMC Yukon XL brochure. You can read about its upgraded features, view high-quality images, explore trim levels, and more by downloading the Yukon XL brochure today!

Download the 2017 GMC Yukon XL Brochure

The 2017 GMC Yukon XL carries an increased towing capacity and improved cargo space, allowing Yukon XL drivers to switch from three rows of seating to an entire backseat full of storage with the simple touch of a button. Tow up to 8,500 lbs. of cargo effortlessly with the 2017 Yukon XL. The 2017 GMC Yukon XL comes with a GMC Pro Grade Protection plan, allowing drivers to receive a 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, and 5-year/60,000 mile roadside assistance. These features, coupled with a suite of standard safety features, set the GMC Yukon XL apart from other vehicles. Own the road this year with the new 2017 Yukon XL.

Once you set foot in this industry-defining SUV, you won't want to drive anything else again. Download the 2017 GMC Yukon XL brochure to get a detailed description of what features, specifications, and styles are available to potential owners of the GMC Yukon XL. If you still have questions about the vehicle's specifications or trim levels for Yukon XL drivers, take a look at the Yukon Model Overview page to view detailed descriptions of what this full-size SUV has to offer. Check if we have the Yukon XL you're looking for with our Yukon XL inventory, and if you can't find the type of 2017 GMC you're looking for, give us a call!

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

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Downloadable 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV Brochure

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– The popular Cadillac Escalade is back again with upgraded performance and style with the ESV model. Featuring a sleek look, additional features, and a large carrying capacity, the 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV makes its presence known on the road from the inside out. Check out the downloadable 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV brochure to view the newest features, technology upgrades, trim levels, exterior and interior packages, and more today. Learn what this powerful and stunning SUV has to offer by downloading the 2017 Escalade ESV brochure now!

Downloadable 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV Brochure

The 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV is equipped with all the standard features of a 2017 Cadillac Escalade while also receiving several upgrades with the Special Edition ESV package. With an extra room of adjustable seats, increased carrying capacity, and upgraded 20-inch wheels, the Escalade ESV has power and efficiency in mind. Spaciousness and versatility allow the ESV to stand out on the road to other drivers, and its state-of-the-art technology and safety features allow ESV drivers to feel safe and secure on the road.

Get a closer look at what this cutting-edge SUV has to offer by checking out the downloadable 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV brochure. Learn what sets the ESV apart from the traditional Cadillac Escalade by viewing the ESV Model Overview to get a closer look at its features and vehicle specifications. You can see reviews, pricing, availability, and more on our Escalade ESV Inventory page. Want to get behind the wheel of a 2017 Cadillac Escalade ESV? Make sure to schedule a test drive with us today to see what this powerful and sleek SUV has in store for drivers.

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

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Buick Encore's Improvements Provide A Competitive Edge

MT. PLEASANT, Mich.,–– The world of crossovers and SUVs is full of options small to large, sporty to classy, and beyond! There's a crossover for just about anyone in the market. This year, the 2017 Buick Encore, a leader in the compact crossover segment now, received a significant makeover with new features that would to allow it to stand out in the now seemingly crowded segment. The Buick Encore's performance, safety, and feature improvements provide a competitive edge in a world full of crossover and SUV vehicles.

The improved exterior design offer drivers a fresh, more fluid, contemporary look. The interior has been refreshed and refined to wrap each driver and passenger in complete comfort. Its interior technology utilizes an 8" detailed touchscreen display, giving drivers access to Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto immediately. Its compact size provides drivers the handling and navigation of a sedan with the comfort and safety of an SUV.

The 2017 Encore may seem small for a crossover, but can seat up to five, while also providing room for cargo. The cargo space is relatively flexible with 60/40 split rear seats and 8' of flat space with the second row of seats down. What drivers will most enjoy about this crossover is the comfortable, quiet, and cushioned ride thanks to Bose Active Noise Cancellation technologies, heated front seats, leather trimmed steering wheel, and more. These features, coupled with electric steering and new advanced safety features, allow owners of the 2017 Buick Encore to get the best of the best in one attractive package. 

The Buick Encore's improvements provide a competitive edge against other crossover vehicles. Give yourself a competitive edge with the 2017 Buick Encore today!Take a look at what's new with the 2017 Buick Encore by viewing the vehicle brochure on our site to find detailed information on this sleek crossover! Interested in seeing this new crossover in person? Schedule a test drive with us or stop by our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership. Before you visit us, take a look at the 2017 Encore Model Overview to view vehicle reviews, specifications by trim level, a list of standard vehicle features, pricing, and more. 

At Hank Graff Mt. Pleasant we strive to provide our customers with a car buying experience that is accommodating, stress-free and fun! Visit us at our Chevrolet dealership located at 4580 E Pickard Rd in Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 or our Buick GMC Cadillac dealership located at 116 N. Mission St in Mount Pleasant, MI 48858.

Websites: Chevrolet: HankGraffMtPleasant.com and Buick GMC Cadillac: GraffBGC.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, Google+, and YouTube