Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Global Debut of the Cadillac CT5


MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- The Cadillac CT5 is finally here! This sedan completed it's global debut today, and we have to say, we are stunned! In this new venture, Cadillac recasts the concept of American Luxury with a distinctive fusion of design, performance and comfort, supported by Cadillac's latest technologies - including Super Cruise, the world's first true hands-free driver assistance feature for limited access highways. 

An all-new fastback design underscores the CT5's refined ride, complemented with a driver-centric interior that blends high technology and high-touch elements. Luxury and sport models allow customers to tailor the car to their style preferences with unique design and trim. Steve Carlisle, the president of Cadillac, introduced the vehicle saying: 

"The first-ever Cadillac CT5 showcases Cadillac's unique expertise in crafting American luxury sedans...its details elevate every drive and reward the senses." 


An all-new fastback design underscores the CT5's refined ride, complemented with a driver-centric interior that blends high technology and high-touch elements. Luxury and Sport models allow customers to tailor the car to their style preferences with unique design and trim. 

Some highlights include: 

  • A 2.0 Twin-Scroll Turbo engine is standard and Cadillac's 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 is available on Premium Luxury and Sport models. Unique sound calibrations are tuned with the engines and each is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. 
  • The driving dynamics build on Cadillac's award-winning RWD architecture and include standard Driver Control Mode. AWD is also available. 
  • The latest Cadillac user experience with a large 10-inch diagonal screen, as well as intuitive controls, including a rotary controller. 
  • A host of comfort and convenience features such as standard Adaptive Remote Start, cabin air purification ionizer, and available front-seat lumbar massage. 
  • Driver awareness technologies include standard Safety Seat Alert and Cadillac's latest generation available Rear Camera Mirror with zoom and tilt adjustment. 
  • Standard driver assistant technologies include Forward Collision Alert, Low Speed Forward Automatic Emergency Braking, and Front Pedestrian Braking.
  • Available driver assistance technologies including Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, Enhanced Forward Automatic Emergency Braking, Automatic Parking Assist with Braking, HD Surround Vision with Recorder, Rear Pedestrian Detection and Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking, and more. 
The CT5 also features an entirely new design profile, inspired by the Escala concept. It charts a new direction for Cadillac design that leverages the natural proportional advantage of the vehicle's rear-drive platform to communicate power, presence, and performance. Andrew Smith, the executive director of global Cadillac design addressed the new design saying: 

"From every angle, the CT5 exudes athleticism, sophistication, and confidence...Cadillac's signature hard-edge cues have evolved to a more structural and fluid expression of the brand's design language." 

A long, 116-inch wheelbase and lengthened side glass accentuate the car's long, low proportion and sweeping fastback profile. Body sculpturing, including taut character lines, contributes to the car's strong stance and speaks to Cadillac's legacy of craftsmanship and technology. An all-LED exterior lighting strategy features signature vertical lights at all four corners of the vehicle. Bright exterior accents, unique grills, and fascias distinguish the CT5 luxury and Premium Luxury models, while the Sport model is differentiated by darker accents and performance-inspired details like rocker extensions, spoiler, and standard 19-inch wheels. 

It's interior features elegant, wide surface lines and simple interfaces, focusing on quality, attention to detail, authenticity of materials, and impeccable craftsmanship. Everything from the instrument panel to the center display is focused on the driver and essential touch points, emphasizing control. That includes a prominent 1080dp high definition, full-color, 10-inch diagonal touchscreen mounted high within the instrument panel for visibility. 

The CT5 also delivers thoughtful technology integration by offering intuitive in-vehicle experience with a heightened sense of control. This is provided in everything from vehicle controls that conform to the driver's driving style to the latest, more personal Cadillac user experience, which provides more intuitive ways to interface with the system, including phone pairing via Near Field Communication and a new rotary controller. 

It also features Adaptive Remote Start and an available hands-free power release decklid to further customer's convenience and comfort. Adaptive Remote Start automatically activates features such as the available adaptive heated/ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, and other climate systems, depending on the temperature. The hands-free decklid uses a motion sensor with Cadillac crest target projection that allows customers to activate the trunk release with their foot, supporting easy access.

Want to know more about the design and features of the all-new CT5? Click Here

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.



Friday, April 12, 2019

10 DIY Easter Crafts You Have to Try


MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- If you're a lover of arts and crafts, Spring is such a great time to have a go at some serious DIY - all those cheery colors and themes are so inspiring! Check out our list of DIY Easter crafts you have to try! We hope you have a happy holiday! 




WATERCOLOR COOKIES

A mix of crafts and baking? Uh, yes, please! 

Get the Tutorial Here: http://bit.ly/2DboqRE


BUNNY TREAT MASON JARS

Spruce up regular mason jars with some pretty paint and bunny cutouts. 

Get the Tutorial Here: http://bit.ly/2Z7J9ip


EASTER EGG BALLOONS

Trying to get your Easter decorations all set? Give these cute balloons a try! 

Get the Tutorial Here: http://bit.ly/2XaqHEj


MONOGRAM EGGS 

Switch out your usual place cards with these adorable monogram eggs! They're so easy! Just use a small paintbrush to fleck tan acrylic paint (thinned out with water) on undyed eggs. Once dry, handwrite each guest's initials with a gold paint pen. 


ALMOND JOY WREATH 

Turn egg-shaped Jordan almonds into a sweet spring decoration! 

All you have to do is take a 12-inch styrofoam wreath, and beginning with the outside circumference, hot-glue the almonds in place, overlapping a few of them to add dimension. Continue in a circular pattern until the entire front, inner, and outer edges of the wreath are covered. Hang with a sturdy piece of cotton ribbon, or oversize rickram trim. 


SPRING BUNNIES GUMBALL MACHINE

With an upside-down flower pot and an empty candy jar, you can create the look of a gumball machine with a sweet Easter scene inside. 

Get the Tutorial Here: http://bit.ly/2Uv6FHH


PEEPS HOUSE 

How adorable are these? You can either eat them or leave them up as decorations! 

Get the Tutorial Here: http://bit.ly/2IgXiog


EGG FLOWER VASE 

Forego your usual vase and house your spring flowers in eggs! Just use candle wax to attach them to a mirror, then place by a window or on your dining table! 


EASTER EGG GARLAND

Hang these pretty patterned eggs in your kitchen or dining room for a bit of a rustic DIY touch. 


EASTER EGG BUTTONS 

Add some Easter flair to your walls by turning old and colorful buttons into an Easter Egg. 

Get the Tutorial Here: http://bit.ly/2Ku4OOE

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.


Tuesday, April 9, 2019

GM Earns 2019 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year



MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- General Motors will receive a 2019 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Award in Energy Management for continued leadership and superior contributions to ENERGY STAR. This is GM's eighth recognition for Sustained Excellence. GM's commitment to reducing energy intensity since 2010 has eliminated 1.5 million tons in carbon emissions, equivalent to the electric use of 260,000 homes for a year. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency presents the Sustained Excellence Award to partners that have already received ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year recognition for a minimum of two consecutive years and have gone above and beyond the criteria needed to qualify for recognition. It is the highest honor an organization can receive from the EPA for energy management. In 2018, GM had 17 buildings that were ENERGY STAR-certified, including two data centers. It met the Energy Star Challenge for an industry with eight additional facilities globally for a total of 135 recognitions, more than any other company. Alfred J. Hildreth, global energy manager for GM addressed the recognition, saying: 

"Energy efficiency is a key part of General Motors' strategy for a future with zero emissions...while our comprehensive energy strategy integrates sustainable practices across our value chain for maximum progress, our approach prioritizes reducing energy consumption through robust energy efficiency programs. We're honored to serve as an industry leader and are thankful for ENERGY STAR's continued recognition." 


In 2010, GM committed to reducing its energy and carbon intensity by 20 percent by 2020, and in 2017, met and exceeded this goal ahead of schedule. Energy efficiency and conservation is a team effort, with each plant contributing to energy-related goals as part of its business plan. Teams share best practices and implement low cost/no cost initiatives identified in energy treasure hunts and use energy performance contracting for larger projects like LED lights, building management systems, and variable speed drives on motors. 

GM is also committed to increasing its renewable energy footprint globally and finding clean energy solutions near its operations. To date, GM has contracted or invested in a total of 1.71 terawatt hours of clean energy power in North America, equivalent to powering more than 145,000 households, and more than any other automaker in the region. 

Bill Wehrum, EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation congratulated GM, and this year's other winners, saying: 

"I applaud the 2019 ENERGY STAR Award Winners...their innovation and leadership enhance America's economic competitiveness. Reducing costly energy waste improves air quality and public health while protecting the environment." 

GM will be recognized by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy at a ceremony in Washington on April 11, 2019. For more information about Energy Star, its awards criteria, and methodology, visit energystar.gov/awardwinnershttps://www.energystar.gov/about/awards/2019_energy_star_award_winners.

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.


Friday, April 5, 2019

Happy National Poetry Month


MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- April is National Poetry Month! This 30-day celebration of literary excellence was inaugurated by the Academy of American in 1996. Over the years it has become the largest literary celebration in the world with schools, publishers, libraries, and booksellers honoring poetry's vital place in our culture through events, readings, publishing essays, and more! In honor of the wonderful poets throughout history who have changed the course of literature, we present our list of favorite poets! 


ELIZABETH BISHOP 

Bishop was a notorious perfectionist, and therefore did not publish a large amount of work throughout her life, but her complete collection is cherished by her many fans. She was fortunate enough to inherit money from her father, and ended up never having to work, but instead spent her life traveling and her poems are filled with precise, vivid images of the places and experiences she encountered. 

EDGAR ALLAN POE

The king of horror didn't just write short stories, he turned out some beautiful and macabre poetry as well. "The Raven" is probably one of his better-known works, but he also wrote a fair amount of beautiful love poems, including "A Dream Within a Dream" and "Anabel Lee". 

SYLVIA PLATH 

One of the most dynamic and admired poets of the 20th century, Sylvia Plath had an enormous literary following by the time she took her own life at the age of 30. Her work focused on her obsessions with despair, violent emotion, and death. Intensely autobiographical, her work explores her troubled marriage, her unresolved conflicts with her parents, and her own vision of herself. 

SHANE KOYCZAN 

An award-winning spoken word poet and author, Shane Koyczan has made huge strides in making poetry accessible to a digital audience through his video performances. He is known for writing about issues like cancer, bullying, eating disorders, and more. He is most famous for his anti-bullying poem "To This Day" that went viral on social media a few years back and has over 20 million views on Youtube. 

ANDREA GIBSON 

An American poet and activist, Andrea Gibson is an American Poet and activist from Maine. Her works center on issues like gender norms, politics, social reform, and the struggles that the LGBTQ community faces. She is the first woman to ever win the Women of the World Poetry Slam in Detroit, and has won numerous other awards for her several volumes of poetry. 

PABLO NERUDA 

A Nobel Peace Prize-winning poet and diplomat, Pablo Neruda's work has long been cherished by his fans for its variety. He wrote about the beauty of South American scenery, love, politics, and more. Unfortunately, much of his work was destroyed upon his death due to a riot taking place around his funeral. 

EMILY DICKINSON

One of the greatest and most well-known American poets of all time, Emily Dickinson is honored for her experimentation with conventional literary restraints and crafted a new type of persona for the third person. Her speakers are sharp-sighted observers who see the inescapable limitations of society, as well as their escapes. Her life was full of tragedies and the influence of these heartbreaks is clearly visible in her work, making her an excellent read for anyone undergoing a grieving or healing process. 

MAYA ANGELOU 

An American poet, singer, memoirist, and civil-rights activist, Maya Angelou is undoubtedly one of the most beloved writers of all time. Although she is probably better known for her fiction and her autobiographical works, her poetry is not to be ignored. Her work "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" is probably one of the most easily recognized works of poetry every written, and has given hope to many people during hard times. 

We hope you enjoyed our list of our favorite poets, we know that there are so many amazing writers we didn't mention, but we're celebrating them this month as well. Who are some of your favorite poets? 

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.


Monday, April 1, 2019

2019 Indianapolis 500 Pacer Car Announced


MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- The 2019 Corvette Grand Sport will be serving as the Official Pace Car for the 2019 Indianapolis 500 presented by Gainbridge, leading 33 drivers to the green flag on May 26 for the 103rd running of the legendary race. 

This will mark the 16th time a Corvette has paced the race, and the 30th time a Chevrolet has led the field. No other brand or vehicle has served as the 500 pace car more than Chevrolet and the Corvette, and Steve Majoros, the director of Chevrolet passenger car and crossover marketing couldn't be happier about it. He released a statement saying: 

"Chevrolet is honored to lead the way for the 500 once again. The Grand Sport is a particularly excellent choice, as it's wide body and aerodynamic features are steeped in racing heritage." 

Indianapolis 500 fans will also see 33 2019 Corvette Stingrays on the roads of Central Indiana this spring and in the IPL 500 Festival Parade on May 25 in downtown Indianapolis. The popular cars are provided to central Indiana business leaders and dignitaries and serve an important promotional role for the race. 

Douglas J. Boles, President of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, spoke out about the long-running partnership as well, saying: 


"We continue to be grateful for our long-running partnership with Chevrolet...it's such a strong bond that has proven integral to the success of our events. The 2019 Corvette Grand Sport is a world-class machine that exudes speed, performance, and excitement, a perfect fit to lead the 500 field. Personally, there is nothing quite like driving an Indianapolis 500 Chevrolet Corvette around Indiana in May, and I know our fans will enjoy seeing the Corvette Stingray festival cars around town throughout the month of May." 

The 2019 Corvette Grand Sport Pace Car features the following: 

  • Long Beach Red Metallic Tintcoat with unique GM Design Indy 500 decal package.
  • Full-Length Racing Blade Silver Dual Stripes. 
  • LT1 6.2-liter V-8 DI aluminum engine with 460 horsepower and 465 lb-fit of torque.
  • 8-speed paddle shift automatic transmission
  • Dry-sump oil system
  • Performance suspension with Magnetic Ride Control
  • Brembo carbon ceramic brakes
  • Grand Sport aluminum wheels: 19-inch front and 20-inch rear
  • Carbon Flash painted Carbon Fiber Ground Effects Package
  • Competition Sport Bucket Seats
  • Performance Data Recorder
The Corvette Grand Sport Pace Car can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, and has an available cornering capability of 1.2 g thanks to advanced aerodynamic components. 

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.






Wednesday, March 27, 2019

Chevrolet Takes Center Field at Comerica Park


MT. PLEASANT, Mich -- The Detroit Tiger's 2019 season kicks off with the installation of two all-new vehicles atop the center field fountain at Comerica Park, a Motor City tradition now in its 10th year. This year's showpieces? The red 2019 Chevy Blazer RS and a silver 2019 Silverado 1500 LT Trail Boss. 

These vehicles enhance the ballpark's skyline view and complement the majestic "Chevy Fountain" that graces centerfield at Comerica Park. With more than 8,400 pounds of sheet metal hoisted into position by a crane, the vehicles remind fans in the stadium and at home of Chevy's historic relationship with American baseball and it's deep roots within Detroit. 

Paul Edwards, the U.S. Vice President of Chevrolet Marketing celebrated this year's installment saying: 

"This decade-old tradition allows us to celebrate Chevy's connection to baseball in our hometown, and it's a telltale sign that Opening Day is almost here...the all-new Blazer and Silverado represent innovation, endurance and personality - much like our great city of Detroit" 

The attention-grabbing Blazer and the rugged Silverado showcase the quality, dependability and reliability needed to withstand the six-month baseball season, and with their bird's eye view, these heavy-hitting vehicles will cheer on the Detroit Tigers at every home game. 

Chris Granger, Group President of Sports and Entertainment for Ilitch Holdings, Inc also released a statement regarding this time-honored tradition, saying: 

"Chevrolet and the Detroit Tigers are two of the Motor City's most iconic brands, and we're honored to be celebrating the 10-year mark of this great tradition...Chevy continues to be a great partner, not only to the Tigers, but with the entire Major League Baseball family as well." 


This is evidenced by Chevy's involvement with the sport on so many levels. Their connection to baseball extends from the backyard to the major leagues as the Official Vehicle of Major League Baseball and the Official Automotive Sponsor of the PLAY BALL initiative. Through Chevy Cares programs like Chevy Youth Baseball, kids are empowered to stay active, build self-esteem and learn teamwork-skills that can help them on and off the field. 

Since the Chevy Youth Baseball program launched in 2006, more than 8 million kids have participated in nearly 2,000 free clinics with participation from current and former players and coaches. More than 1,300 Chevy dealers across the U.S. have donated nearly 163,000 equipment kits and jerseys to encourage the next generation of baseball players. 

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.


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.