A Michigander's Ultimate Spring Bucket List

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- Hello Spring! After a long, cold and snowy winter, warmer weather is finally here. If you're ready to get out of the house and do some adventuring, you're in luck because few states do spring activities quite like Michigan. No matter what type of fun you're looking for, there's bound to be something on our bucket list you'll love. 

TULIP TIME FESTIVAL 

This time-honored Michigan tradition is perfect for flower lovers and shutterbugs alike. Roam through fields of over 5 million tulips, or enjoy the traditional Dutch market, parades, and fireworks. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2WumM4W

ISLE ROYALE NATIONAL PARK

Michigan's most remote national park lies uninhabited all winter long - save for the resident moose and wolf packs. But once April rolls around this hidden gem is alive with activity. Participate in wildflower hikes, paddling on Lake Superior, enjoy the rugged trails, or star gaze at the Rock Harbor Lodge. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2HOZcN1

EASTERN MARKET 

So much more than a farmer's market, this Detroit tradition is a destination in the heart of the city with a little something for everyone. Browse wares like plants, fresh foods, jewelry, natural beauty products, furniture and more! Or enjoy some live music and the district's amazing restaurants. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2TDxjbO

GAME DAY 

Spring means a new season for the Tigers. Come out and root for the team at Comerica Park, you might even get a special gift with the purchase of your tickets too! 

Get More Info: https://atmlb.com/2TY8Z9Q

MOVEMENT 

If you're an electronica lover then you HAVE to go to movement. This annual electronic dance music event celebrates the Techno heritage of Detroit and is sure to get that urge to groove out of your system! 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2HW3Ibw

SOO LOCKS OPENING DAY 

Michigan is home to the Soo Locks, one of the largest and busiest lock systems in the world. Head out to opening day in late March and watch the first freight of the season head out to the Great Lakes. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2HHI7ED

GREENFIELD VILLAGE TOURS

Tour the 80 acres of property full of historic homes and buildings that makes up Greenfield Village in an authentic Model T. Stop by Thomas Edison's laboratory, the Wright Brothers bicycle shop, a Cotswold Village and so much more! 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2CFgkAz

NATIONAL MOREL FESTIVAL 

A festival entirely dedicated to the Morel mushroom? Is there anything more Michigan? Learn all about how to hunt, pick, and utilize these elusive fungi. Plus, browse mushroom-themed art, enjoy dishes created with these flavorful shrooms, and more! 

Get More Info: https://puremi.ch/2FwZaFN

ANN ARBOR FILM FESTIVAL 

One of the oldest avant-garde and absurdist film festivals in North America, this event has been a tradition since the 1960s. Spanning six days, it features over 40 submissions of all lengths and genres annually, so whether you love animation, documentaries, or performance-based works, there will be something for you. 

Get More Info: https://puremi.ch/2JJgFYQ

ZOO DE MACK 

This 51 mile bike bash is a Michigan rite of spring. It begins at Boyne Highlands Resort and ends at Mackinaw Island. Leisurely ride through some of the most scenic areas of our state and enjoy parties and events along the way. 

Get More Info: http://bit.ly/2JJelkq

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.

Welcome Spring With These DIY Crafts!

MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- We've almost made it out of the winter months! This year, the cold season was unreasonably bitter, and if you're anything like us, you can't wait for the weather to warm up a bit. While we still have a little ways to go, you can definitely get the spring vibes rolling with these cute DIY craft ideas! If you happen to try any of these out, comment and let us know how they turned out. We love hearing from you! 

COLANDER PLANTERS

Forget flower pots! Turn your favorite flowers into this cute DIY display. 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2EbfsEF

MASON JAR SOAP DISPENSER 

Add a little springy touch to your kitchen or bathroom sink with this totally adorable soap dispenser! 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2X1H5HQ

PATIO PAVERS

Jazz up your patio pavers with this easy and cheap idea! 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2TN0Zo4

STENCILED ANIMAL MUGS

How cute are these? You'd never guess they were DIY right? 

Get the stencils now: https://amzn.to/2EdRTLM

CUTE BIRD FEEDER

Make these adorable bird feeders with cookie cutters, mason jar lids, or whatever molds you have around the house. 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2SBwowZ

RAINBOW EDGE STATIONARY 

Update your home office with this cute, springy stationary. 

Get the tutorial now: http://bit.ly/2SPfpXz

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. 

The Michigan Cider Mill Bucket List

MT. PLEASANT, Mich-- Sweet, crisp apple cider, warm cinnamon-sugar donuts, buttery pies and turnovers, pumpkin or apple picking, hayrides! Few activities bring more nostalgia than the thought of visiting Michigan cider mills in the fall. Autumn is quickly coming to a close, but you still have some time to visit these amazing orchards before its too late, or plan out your fall fun for next year. Check out Graff Mt Pleasant's Michigan cider mill bucket list, is your favorite cider mill on our list? Read on to find out!

1. YATES - ROCHESTER HILLS

One of the oldest, continuous running businesses in Michigan, Yates has been voted the best Cider Mill in Metro Detroit throughout the years. They claim the difference exists in their process, which involves various blends of apple varieties, sometimes as many as six strains per batch, and the UV treatment the finished product undergoes as opposed to pasteurization. There's something to keep every member of the family entertained at Yates, from the petting zoo to the riverwalk and apple tent. Make sure you grab a bag of their freshly-baked donuts, they really are the best in the area. 

2. BLAKES - ARMADA

This orchard boasts 45,600 apple trees on the property in 42 different strains, making them one of the top suppliers of Michigan apples for 69 years. More than just a cider mill, they provide family entertainment all year long, from haunted Halloween attractions like zombie paintball to an annual Lavender festival. Boasting fresh-pressed cider and a full slate of autumn baked goods, Blake's is the perfect place to enjoy a late October or early November weekend.

3. FRANKLIN CIDER MILL - BLOOMFIELD HILLS

The historic Franklin Cider Mill makes apple cider the old-fashioned way, no filtration, pasteurization, or preservatives, with apples that are hand-picked and 100% organic. You can truly taste the difference in their product, and it's made them one of the most popular grist mills in Metro Detroit since Michigan gained statehood. Stop in for a cider slushie, or some of the best-rated apple pies around, just keep in mind that it's cash only. It's also a popular venue due to its old-timey feel, visit their website to find the perfect place to host your autumn wedding, car show, or concert. 

4. SPICER'S - FENTON

Voted the 3rd best orchard in the nation, Spicer's is your one-stop shop for all things fall. Cider, pies, pumpkins, and apple-picking, all brought to you with 5-star rated service. Their cinnamon-sugar donuts and fudge are highly recommended, and the corn maze or petting zoo make it a perfect, family-friendly hangout. Go for a wagon ride or check out the zip lines. No matter what kind of activities you're looking for to keep your family entertained, Spicer's is sure to deliver. 

5. DEXTER CIDER MILL - DEXTER

Family owned and operated since 1886, the Dexter Cider Mill is the oldest, continuously-operating mill in the state. Their unpasteurized cider is made from a variety of locally-grown, Michigan apples, processed in an authentic oak press. Check out the sales room which features fresh pastries, jellies, vinegars, pickles, and other condiments. Note that it is cash or check only, but there is an ATM on site. Nestled against the banks of the Huron River, it's the perfect place to spend quiet, fall afternoons. Take your family for a Saturday picnic, just beware of the bees! 

6. APPLE CHARLIE'S ORCHARDS - SOUTH HURON

Described as "a place filled with old-time charm and a family values vibe" by one reviewer, Apple Charlie's is the perfect place to unwind and learn about the farm life. Grab a loaf of chopped-apple cinnamon bread, say hi to the animals, go for a wagon ride or browse the gift shop! If you're looking for a quiet experience, avoid it during their apple festival which usually occurs in late September or early October as it draws crowds from all over the state. 

Did we include your favorite cider mill? If not, comment and let us know, we love hearing from you!

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.

2019 GMC Sierra Denali Makes Its Way to Dealerships

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. -- Having set the new standard for capability, refinement, and innovation at its introduction earlier this year, the all-new 2019 GMC Sierra Denali is now beginning to make its way to dealerships and bolstering the GMC's position as the leading brand for premium truck buyers.

Distinguished by an iconic design and segment-leading technologies, the 2019 GMC Denali is the flagship of the next-gen Sierra line-up, which features a broader and bolder range of pick-up trucks including the AT4 and Elevation models.

“GMC ignited the premium truck market 17 years ago with the launch of the Sierra Denali and the next-generation model sets a new standard with unparalleled advancements and exclusive design,” says Rich Latek, marketing director of GMC. “It offers more upscale appointments, purposeful technologies, and capability - solidifying Denali as the ultimate in professional grade.”

In addition to its beastly good looks and premium features, the 2019 Denali raises the bar with ride and handling and performance technologies engineered to provide a seamless balance of comfort, control, and capability - including the new Adaptive Ride Control and the most powerful V-8 engine in its class.

The all-new 2019 Sierra Denali is offered as a crew cab with nearly 3-inches more of rear-seat legroom than its predecessor, as well as a roomier cabin trimmed with Denali-exclusive materials such as Forge leather-appointed seating, authentic open-pore wood trim, and dark-finish aluminum decor.

The 2019 Denali secures its place as the most premium Sierra ever made, featuring segment-leading technologies and exclusive features including:

• GMC Exclusive, Industry-first MultiPro Tailgate: The most innovative pickup tailgate ever. Featuring six unique functions and positions, as well as offering enhanced second-tier loading and load-stop solutions, a standing workstation and easier access to items in the box.
• GMC Exclusive, Industry-first Carbon Fiber Pickup Box: The CarbonPro offers best-in-class dent, scratch and corrosion resistance.
• All-new ProGrade Trailering System with in-vehicle Trailering App: A connected and comprehensive suite of trailering technology that offers more confidence and precision to the towing experience.
• Segment-first Multi-Color Head-Up Display: Projects key, customizable vehicle data on the windshield in a 3x7-inch display for added safety.
• Segment-first Rear Camera Mirror: Gives the driver the option of utilizes either an inside rearview mirror or a rearview camera mirror display that provides a wider, unobstructed view that can help overcome common visual obstructions such as occupants or cargo. On top of that, this technology features zoom and vertical tilt capability.

Other 2019 GMC Denali highlights (both standard and available) include:

• Denali-exclusive exterior elements, including a bright, multidimensional grille, chrome exterior accents, and body-color bumpers.
• New high-intensity LED headlamps that incorporate C-shaped "light blade" lighting elements, LED fog lamps and C-shaped LED elements within the taillights.
• Standard 20-inch aluminum wheels, and available 22-inch wheels.
• Integrated dual exhaust with bright polished outlets standard.
• Standard heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear outboard seat and heated, and leather-wrapped steering wheel.
• GMC Premium Infotainment System with 8-inch-diagonal HD color touchscreen, embedded navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone projection compatibility.
• Customizable profiles that save each driver's personalized settings and presets, which are then stored in the cloud and can be accessed and used in other compatible 2019 GMCs.

RIDE AND HANDLING

The exclusive Adaptive Ride Control on the 2019 Sierra Denali offers premium ride comfort with overall improved road isolation and control than ever before. Utilizing real-time road monitoring and driver inputs when accelerating, cornering, braking, and trailering, the system's active dampers can be individually adjusted every 2 milliseconds.

On top of that, the all-new Traction Select System allows the driver to choose from preset drive modes, each tailored for different terrain and weather conditions like mud and snow, which then adjusts the 2019 Sierra's transmission shift points, throttle mapping, and StabiliTrak for optimal performance. The Traction Select System also operates with Adaptive Ride Control to further enhance the driving experience.

The available Traction Select System modes include:

• Tour: The default mode of operation at every time the driver fires up the truck. Designed to deliver the right blend of refinement and efficiency for everyday use.
• Sport: The transmission downshifts in order to keep the engine in its peak powerband, while power steering assist is slightly reduced to make the steering feel more direct, communicative and sporty.
• Snow: Available only on two-wheel-drive Sierras, this mode optimizes the vehicle's driveline for wintry weather. On top of leveraging the vehicle's standard Traction Control and StabiliTrak stability control systems, this mode also provides a slower, less sensitive accelerator pedal calibration.
• Off-Road: Designed for use for higher-speed driving on non-paved surfaces, this mode utilizes the same accelerator calibration as Snow Mode which gives the driver precise throttle control. Off-Road also incorporates StabiliTrak and traction control calibrations that allow for a little more wheel slip than on dry surfaces to aid in carrying momentum which is crucial in mud or gravel.
• Tow/Haul: Modifies the transmission calibration so that shift points are higher, allowing the engine to deliver peak power. It also initiates downshifts earlier in order to leverage engine braking and reduce wear on brake components. Tow/Haul also engages Grade Braking functionality so that on long, downhill stretches, a light touch of the brake pedal can initiate a downshift to slow the vehicle more efficiently.

Additionally, the standard Autotrac 2-Speed Transfer Case provides a mechanical low range for amplified torque at low speeds, while a new electro-hydraulic power brake boost system (rather than a vacuum-assist system) offers a strong, smooth, and consistent brake pedal feel with a loaded bed or while trailering.

THE MOST POWERFUL V-8 ENGINE

The available 6.2L V-8 engine on the 2019 Denali is the largest in the segment as well as the most powerful, rated at an SAE-certified 420 horsepower with 460 lb-ft of torque, and paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM), an industry-first cylinder deactivation technology, enables the engine to operate in 17 different shift patterns between two to eight cylinders which, depending on demand, is designed to optimize fuel efficiency and power delivery.

Stay tuned for updates regarding the availability of the 2019 GMC Sierra Denali at Graff Mt. Pleasant!

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.

5 Reasons You Should Have Your Vehicle Serviced at a Dealership

Owning a car is a big responsibility. Like any machine, they need to be properly cared for in order to continue running at their best. Unless you’re a hardcore gearhead, however, you probably aren’t going to be performing routine maintenance yourself, and even if you are it helps to have a trusted resource to consult should you need to do so. The question is: who do you choose?

A dealership service center and your local mechanic have their own pros and cons. However, for the sake of this article, we’re going to be focusing on the important reasons why a dealership like Graff Mt. Pleasant is the best place to have your car serviced.

 1. TRAINING 

One of the biggest reasons the dealership wins over the local mechanic is the training provided. Automotive manufacturers offer specialist training through their network of dealerships, meaning that the technicians employed by a service center have expert knowledge of the performance of that particular line of vehicles, and thus know how and when they should be repaired. This training is often ongoing, meaning that dealership technicians are constantly kept up to date on the latest engineering and technologies released by the manufacturer.

 

2. FREQUENCY

Dealership technicians almost exclusively work on the make of vehicle sold by the dealership, granting them a higher degree of experience than an independent mechanic who may work on a particular brand here and there.

 

3. EQUIPMENT AND FACILITIES

When it comes to the quality of tools used, dealership service centers certainly have a leg up over local mechanics. In addition to manufacturer-provided assistance with start-up costs and equipment, dealerships receive priority over anyone else when new service tools and specifications are developed, making them better equipped to handle service issues as engineering and technology are updated with each new model.

Dealer facilities also tend to be cleaner and better organized than a mechanic shop, which not only bodes well for the condition of your vehicle once you get it back, but also for you as most dealerships feature things like waiting rooms, complimentary drinks and snacks, television, and even Wi-Fi to make the wait more bearable.

4. WARRANTIES 

Another benefit to having your car serviced at a dealership are warranties. Both local mechanic shops and dealerships offer warranties for the work they perform, but the advantage definitely rests with the dealership. Within your vehicle’s warranty period, any repairs or routine maintenance are covered free of charge. Although, should you have to have service performed outside of a warranty, a dealership can back up their work with a warranty that is honored nationwide. That way, if a repair doesn’t hold, you can have it fixed at any other dealer at no cost to you.

Local mechanics, on the other hand, may only offer very limited warranties or only cover labor or parts, but never both. If you travel a lot or move, their warranty may also be worthless elsewhere, leaving you to foot a potentially hefty bill when you could have just visited one of the many dealerships in the network and had it done for free.

 

5. CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

As representatives of the brand and the fact they have to pay the manufacturer to operate under their banner, dealerships have a significant advantage over local mechanics in the customer satisfaction department. Independent shops are free to run their business however they want and thus, depending on the character of ownership, are not held to the same strict corporate standards as are dealerships. If you have a bad experience at a local shop, your complaints run the risk of being overlooked as they answer to no superior entity. Dealership service centers, however, are policed by customer surveys and the open line of communication we have with the manufacturer itself (i.e. the one who keeps them employed).

While it tends to be a matter of preference and convenience, this article highlights some advantages to having your car serviced at a dealership rather than a local mechanic. It may not be for everyone, but dealership service centers have some important perks that make them a valid resource for drivers. Schedule a service appointment with Graff Mt. Pleasant today!

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.