8 Spooky and Simple Halloween Decorations

OKEMOS, Mich., – It's almost time for Halloween! Is your house ready for the scariest season of the year? If not, these 8 spooky and simple Halloween decorations should help you get your home looking positively ghoulish. All of these DIY decorations are really easy and fun crafts to make with your little ghosts and goblins as well. So, whether you're hosting a Halloween-themed party or are simply greeting Trick or Treaters, use these decorations to make your house the scariest one on the block this year!

1. Spiderweb Balloons

Want to decorate your trees or front porch in a creative way this Halloween? Spiderweb balloons are a creepy and cool way to increase the curb appeal of your home without losing any of the decorative charm of the fall! The best part is, it only takes a few minutes and some household supplies to make them! All you have to do is coat string in a water and glue mixture, wrap the string around a balloon, let it dry, and then pop the balloon for cool and creepy spiderweb look!

2. Creepy Eyeball Roses

Looking for the perfectly terrifying touch to your home? These eyeball roses are sure to be the most unsettlingly unique decorations this Halloween season. Plus, they only take a few minutes to put together. All you have to do is glue a plastic eyeball in the center of a fake rose, and you've made the creepiest decoration of all time!

3. Yarn Pumpkin Garland

If you want to make a family-friendly decoration that everyone can participate in making, this yarn pumpkin garland is a quick and easy way to decorate your home this Halloween. All you need is yarn, pipe cleaners, twine, and scissors. You'll have a fun new string of Halloween-themed garland to dress up your living room with!

4. Pumpkin Party Favors

Hosting a Halloween party? Make the occasion memorable with pumpkin party favors! Fill these bundles with candy, chocolate, and other fun goodies to impress party-goers or Trick-or-Treaters when they visit. Create the coolest pumpkin-themed party favors your friends and family have ever seen this year!

5. Spooky Mason Jars

Unleash your artsy side with these spooky mason jars! All you need to craft these creepy jars is spray paint, a permanent marker, and a tea light candle to bring the ghostly scene to life. Decorate your home with these cool and creative mason jars for a haunting look. Add a creative twist by drawing your own creepy Halloween-themed landscape!

6. Halloween Window Decal

This decoration is easy to make, but looks great! All you need are a few Halloween-themed decals (you can get them at the store or make them yourself with black construction paper) and orange string lights to make the coolest window decorations this season. If your windows have blinds, shut them for maximum Halloween spookiness!

7. Mason Jar Mummies

Wrap your mason jars in medical gauze and glue on some googly eyes for a cute and crazy Halloween DIY project! If you're making this with your kids, you can even use different sized mason jars to make a little mummy family! 

8. Glow in the Dark Pumpkins

Making glow in the dark pumpkins is simple, easy, and can add a fun twist to your average jack-o-lantern making process without even having to use a knife or other sharp objects. Before you get started, print off a face design and put it on your pumpkin before you spray it with glow in the dark paint. Once the paint dries, peel off the face design and put your new glow in the dark jack-o-lantern out on your porch!

Looking for more Halloween inspiration? Follow our Pinterest page for regular updates on Halloween-themed costumes, decorations, recipes, and more. We hope these 8 spooky and simple Halloween decorations make your Halloween an exciting and fun experience this year! If you're looking to save big on auto maintenance, make sure to visit our coupons page the next time you have to schedule service for routine maintenance! We have discounts on tires, batteries, brakes, and more! Enjoy your Halloween festivities this year with your newly decorated home!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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Caring For Your Car this Fall

OKEMOS, Mich., – Say goodbye to the summer and hello to the fall! It's time for pumpkin patches, hayrides, bonfires, and plenty of fall fun! However, did you know that the changing temperatures and weather can affect your vehicle's performance? Believe it or not, some of the most important components in your vehicle can become worn or damaged by the colder temperatures of the fall. At Graff Okemos, we want to make sure you're ready to take on the unpredictable Michigan weather. With this in mind, we've put together a guide to caring for your car this fall! You can learn the importance of caring for your vehicle's weather strips, heating and ventilation system, windshield, belts and hoses, and even tips on what to put in your emergency kit this season. Check out our Fall Car Care page for more information on these important components and what they do for your vehicle today!

Weather Strips

The black rubber linings around your doors, windows, trunk, and windshield are called weather strips. They work to keep water, dirt, and air out of your vehicle while you drive. Damaged weather strips are very noticeable, but it can sometimes be difficult to find the damaged section to determine what part of your weather strip requires maintenance. If you hear the sounds of wind while you drive or notice small pools of water forming in your vehicle, it could mean that one of your weather strips is damaged. Take a look at our weather stripping page to learn how to protect your weather strips from damage, how to spot damage to your weather strips, and where your weather strips are located throughout your vehicle.

Heating and Ventilation System

Your vehicle's heating and ventilation system keeps you warm on cold days and helps to defrost your windows before you drive! Without a properly working heating and ventilation system, you can potentially lose visibility on the road and you won't be able to enjoy a comfortable commute to work or school with a warm vehicle. Learn about the importance of your heating and ventilation system, what to do if you need any components replaced, and how to properly maintain your vehicle's heating and ventilation system during the changing seasons.

Windshield

Believe it or not, your windshield is one of the most important safety features in your vehicle! Your windshield protects you from outside elements while you drive and also provides up to 45% of your vehicle's structural integrity in front-end collisions and up to 60% in rollover accidents. In the event of an accident, your windshield helps to hold your vehicle together and prevents your roof from caving in. On our Windshield Care page, you can learn more about the importance of proper windshield care, what to do if you find any cracks or chips, and how to prevent them from expanding and causing further damage to your windshield.

Belts and Hoses

Have you ever wondered how many components need to work in order for your engine to run? Your vehicle's belts and hoses are responsible for transferring power and fluids to important components in your engine, allowing it to function properly. Broken or damaged belts and hoses can potentially damage and disable your engine. Checking them in the fall is extremely important because the changing weather can cause these components to crack or break in colder temperatures. Read up on our Belts and Hoses page to learn how to inspect, protect, and improve the efficiency of these integral parts of your engine.

Emergency Kit

It never hurts to be prepared, especially when it comes to the unpredictability of Michigan's seasons! Keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle will help you to remain ready for any situation that you come across while you're out on the road. Read up on our Emergency Kit page to discover the necessary items you should keep in your emergency kit throughout the year and important items you'll want to keep on hand during the winter. If you wind up stranded on the road or require assistance, your emergency kit can help to keep you warm, safe, and secure while you wait for help!

Your vehicle is a huge investment. Keeping up on routine maintenance can make the difference between enjoying the fall season and winding up in a bad situation on the road when the temperatures drop. Caring for your car this fall only takes a few minutes but the benefits of Fall Car Care outweigh the time it takes to perform a quick check-up! Take a look at your weather strips, heating and ventilation system, belts and hoses, windshield, and emergency kit this fall to make sure you're able to take on the cold weather when the snow starts to fall! If you have any questions or would like assistance with your Fall Car Care routine, let us know and we'll gladly perform a check-up, inspection, or help to answer any questions you may have!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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2017 Chevy Cruze Offers Smooth, Comfortable Ride

OKEMOS, Mich., – Since 2008, the Chevrolet Cruze has sold over 4 million models, making it Chevrolet's most popular car. Last year, it landed a spot on the Consumer Reports Top 10 Most Reliable Cars list for its advanced handling and safety technology. If you're in the market to purchase a new vehicle but are looking for reliability, the 2017 Chevy Cruze offers a smooth, comfortable ride. Read on to discover the cutting-edge features the 2017 Chevrolet Cruze has to offer!

This year, the new 2017 Chevrolet Cruze has received a few upgrades. Owners of the new Cruze can choose between a sedan and hatchback model for additional carrying capacity, and can also decide between one of four trim levels, five interior options, and nine exterior colors. Plus, the new diesel engine can give you up to 52 MPG on the highway! With the new 2017 Chevrolet Cruze, you can enjoy fast and efficient driving at an affordable rate. Get a quote today to find out what discount programs you qualify for to get a great deal on the 2017 Cruze.

"Indeed, in a U.S. compact market long dominated by imports, the Cruze seems poised to take a bigger bite of the [cake]. For one thing, the redesigned Cruze is nicely executed. It is an attractive, well-engineered car that drives adeptly and proves quiet, comfortable, and roomy. Where it shines is in the way its suspension balances good handling with a supple ride that takes the jar out of jarring bumps. That good ride and handling, as well as the cabin quietude and improved crash protection, owes something to the fact that structural rigidity was enhanced through the increased use of high-strength steel." - Al Haas, Philadelphia Inquirer

Want to get a closer look at the new 2017 Chevrolet Cruze? The 2017 Chevrolet Cruze vehicle brochure will provide you with more information about Chevrolet's best-selling sedan, including technology features, engine specifications, fuel efficiency, and more! Experience for yourself how the 2017 Chevy Cruze offers a smooth, comfortable ride by taking it for a test drive today! Stop by and see what this capable and powerful sedan can do for you. Before you visit us, though, take a look at our Cruze Inventory to read reviews, look up vehicle details, and check pricing at Graff Okemos. Feel free to let us know if you find anything you like and we can set you up with a test drive right away! 

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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5 Cider Mills Around Lansing You Need to Visit This Fall

OKEMOS, Mich., – Nothing beats the fun and excitement of cider mills! From hayrides to pumpkin picking, Michigan's cider mills are the perfect place to make memories this season. Planning a trip to enjoy cider and doughnuts? These 5 cider mills around Lansing you need to visit this fall are full of fun for everyone! Check out what makes each of these cider mills in the Lansing area so special and what you can do for fun at each of them!

1. Country Mill Orchard & Cider Mill

Stop by the Country Mill Orchard and Cider Mill in Charlotte, MI for family fun on the farm! You can relax on a wagon ride, explore the farm market for unique gifts, and even pick your own apples! Country Mill Orchard also offers wristband specials, which gives participants access to train rides, storybook hayrides, the apple cannon, the corn maze, and much more! Explore their events calendar to see all the fall fun you can have at Country Mill Orchard and purchase a wristband online if you'd like to enjoy these activities right away!

2. Rex Young's Orchard

Take a trip down to Junction, Michigan for fresh cider and doughnuts! At Rex Young's Orchard, their cider is 100% pure and pressed on-site without any additives or preservatives. Plus, you can even order a cool and crisp cider slush to try a sweet and chilly take on apple cider! Don't forget to take a look at their specialty products and sales to discover everything they have to offer. Don't forget to stop by soon, because Rex Young's Orchard specials are only available for a limited time!

3. Mueller's Orchard and Cider Mill

Ready to pick some apples? Stop by Mueller's Orchard in Linden, MI and visit one of the oldest orchards in the area! Since the 1880s, Mueller's Orchard has been supplying Genesee County with delicious apples, tasty cider, and their famous apple cinnamon sugar doughnuts. Plus, the doughnut and cider making facilities both have large windows so you can watch workers make the cider and doughnuts up close! Head out to Mueller's Orchard to try their wide variety of apple flavors today! 

4. Uncle John's Cider Mill

Located in St. John's, Michigan, Uncle John's Cider Mill is renowned for its wide variety of cider flavors, exciting activities, and fresh fruits and vegetables! Whether you're a fan of tasty cider, corn mazes, inflatable play structures for kids, or all of the above, you'll definitely be able to find something fun to do at Uncle John's Cider Mill. Also, don't forget to check up on the Uncle John's event calendar for updates on concerts, races, and more!

5. Barkham Creek Farms

For an amazing cider mill experience, you'll definitely want to head out to Barkham Creek Farms in Haslett, Michigan. All of their cider is pressed using locally purchased apples in the Lansing area, and all of their pumpkins, plants, and other vegetables are locally grown, too! Additionally, visitors can pick their own pumpkin from a wide variety of shapes and sizes for carving. If you visit, don't forget to explore the crazy corn maze with a fresh cup of cider!

Fall is all about family fun! Fill your autumn season with memories by stopping by these 5 cider mills around Lansing you need to visit this fall. From hayrides to corn mazes, you can check a lot off your fall bucket list after seeing what these fun-filled farms, orchards, and cider mills have to offer! Get a head start on routine maintenance this autumn with our Fall Car Care tips to prepare your vehicle for the changing temperatures. Do you know how to check your oil or how to know when your brakes need to be replaced? If not, check our Routine Maintenance FAQ for suggestions, tips and tricks, and more! 

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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2018 Chevy Equinox Makes Packing a Breeze

OKEMOS, Mich., – Are you the adventurous type, but are always running out of room when you pack up your vehicle? Well, you're in luck, because the 2018 Chevy Equinox makes packing a breeze! With a foldable backseat and spacious trunk room, owners of the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox can make use of up to 63.5 cubic feet of cargo space. While cargo specs can sometimes be misleading, the Chevy Equinox was tested in the Cars.com Compact SUV Challenge and was able to pass the challenge with ease. Read on to see how it was tested and how it stood up to the Compact SUV Challenge!

"Cargo included a 23-inch adult bicycle and an adjustable cardboard box tested in two sizes: 37 inches long, 6 inches wide and 41 inches tall, which we fit behind the backseat, and an expanded 70-by-6-by-41 inches, which we fit with the backseat folded. And to top it off, a pair of golf bags. Though we laid the cardboard box flat for visualization of the cargo area, general practice for transporting a cardboard box like ours with a flat-screen TV inside is to keep the TV upright." - Cars.com

The Compact SUV Challenge put the Equinox's carrying capacity to the test, but it was able to pass with flying colors. The Equinox, equipped with a flat load roof, made loading all of the materials an easy task. The cargo area has two releases for split portions of the back seat, allowing drivers to maximize cargo space in an easy and organizable format. Its foldable seats allow for an easy transition from the full seating of midsize crossover to its impressive cargo capacity of 63.5 cubic feet. The Equinox is also equipped with cubbies for smaller items, a large center console, two wells, and a net between the cargo wells in the back to carry groceries. You can fill your Equinox to the brim with just about anything you'll need for your journey!

If you're heading out on a road trip or vacation soon, you'll want to make sure you have enough room in your vehicle to pack everything. Luckily, the 2018 Chevy Equinox makes packing a breeze so you won't have to worry about carrying capacity or running out of space. Want to get a closer look at what the 2018 Chevrolet Equinox can do for you? Download the 2018 Chevy Equinox Brochure to get a closer look at trim levels, optional and standard features, and much more! After checking out the brochure, be sure to browse our Equinox inventory to find new and used Equinox vehicles available for you to test drive. Find something you like? Call us and let us know right away!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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8 Must-Try Game Day Recipes

OKEMOS, Mich., – Now that football season is in full swing, what better way to celebrate game day than with a football-themed party? Put on your favorite team's jersey, fire up the oven, and give these 8 must-try game day recipes a try at your next get-together!

Pretzel Monkey Bread

This soft, buttery, pull-apart pretzel bread is a must this football season! Serve it with a side of honey mustard or warm cheese for extra flavor in every bite. It's easy to make and full of flavor.

Salsa Verde Queso Dip

Want to make an easy, cheesy game day recipe? Salsa verde queso dip is the answer. This slow cooked dip is best served with tortilla chips, bread, or on game day tacos!

Turkey Swiss Sliders

Looking for healthier alternatives this season? These turkey swiss sliders are a lighter option for game day recipes without sacrificing any of the flavor. The best part is, this recipe only requires five ingredients, so you can make it quick before the next game!

Sloppy Joe Sliders

Follow up your game day appetizers with the main course: sloppy Joe sliders! With a flavorful mixture of sloppy Joe and melted cheese on toasted buns, you can savor every bite of these easy-to-make sandwiches in the convenience of a slider!

Sweet Chili BBQ Kielbasa

No game day is complete without sweet chili BBQ kielbasa! This 3-ingredient crowd-pleaser will score high no matter where you serve it. Combine your favorite BBQ sauce, sweet chili sauce, and kielbasa in a crockpot for an undeniably easy game day recipe!

Crockpot Mac and Cheese

For more crockpot cooking, this warm and gooey mac and cheese is perfect for game day snacking, post game eating, and leftovers the next day. Slow cook your favorite cheeses with some al dente macaroni and you'll have a winning recipe!

Football Puppy Chow

No matter who you're rooting for, this puppy chow is the Super Bowl Champion of snacks! You can add a personal touch on game day by changing the candy melt colors to match your team. 

Cookies and Cream Football

Go big or go home this season with delicious desserts! This cookies and cream football is the perfect finisher to your game day. Enjoy Oreo flavor on top of Nilla wafers, pretzels, or apple slices for a tasty treat!

Whether you're a diehard football fan or are just enjoying the game day fun, these 8 must-try game day recipes will be sure to add the perfect touch to your festivities! While you're out and about gathering ingredients for your recipes, get a head start on your fall car care to keep your vehicle in peak condition this season! If you find anything that may require attention, schedule a service appointment with us right away. We'll even pick up and deliver your vehicle to you afterwards, free of charge!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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Chevy Unveils Red Wings Tribute Logo

OKEMOS, Mich., – The Little Caesar's Arena is open for business! This all-star venue will host hockey games, basketball games, concerts, and much more in downtown Detroit. Chevrolet is the official vehicle sponsor of the Little Caesar's Arena and the Detroit Red Wings. In honor of the partnership with these organizations, Chevy unveiled a Red Wings tribute logo that will be featured at the northeastern entrance of Little Caesar's Arena. The sculpture, which is 9 feet long and 5 feet high, pays tribute to the iconic Red Wings logo with discarded Chevrolet vehicle components that create a truly intricate work of art.

The sculpture, created by a former professional stuntman from the Czech Republic, took over 700 hours to sketch, model, and sculpt. It was created using over 186 parts from 13 separate Chevrolet vehicles, including shocks, brake calipers, rotors, bearings, brake pads, and a hubcap from a 1918 Chevrolet vehicle. The center of the wheel features the iconic Chevrolet Silverado bowtie. It weighs 772 pounds and is on permanent display at the northeastern Chevrolet entrance of Little Caesar's Arena. Watch the video below to see a time lapse of the sculpture's creation!

“Chevrolet commissioned this unique sculpture as a tribute to the people and the industry that fuel the city of Detroit and to honor the Detroit Red Wings who have been a true symbol of grit and determination,” said Paul Edwards, U.S. vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “Tomas Vitanovsky has demonstrated a talent for bringing together what seem to be very ordinary parts into a striking piece of industrial artwork that we are proud to share with the city.”

Chevrolet is the official vehicle of the Detroit Red Wings and the Little Caesar's Arena. Paying tribute to this partnership and the city that built it, Chevy unveiled a Red Wings tribute logo at the grand opening of Little Caesar's Arena in Detroit. The tribute logo features parts and components from multiple Chevrolet vehicles. Take a look at our new vehicle inventory to find the vehicles that carry these components, or check out our accessories if you want to add a personal touch to your vehicle. Need to have routine maintenance performed on your vehicle soon? Use our coupons to get a great deal on service!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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5 Tips to Increase the Life of Your Brakes

OKEMOS, Mich., – Your brakes are the most essential safety component in your vehicle. Without proper care they can wear down quickly, reducing your ability to stop and increasing your risk of danger out on the road. Follow these 5 tips to increase the life of your brakes so that you improve you and your passengers' safety on the road as well as increase your gas mileage.

Watch Your Speed

Stopping your vehicle at high speeds is the number one way your brakes are worn down as you drive. This bad driving habit causes brakes to wear down significantly faster than they would at slower speeds. Your brakes begin to work by using the brake pads to reduce the rotation of your brake discs when the vehicle is traveling. When this happens, the brake pads are slowly worn down and the energy of the spinning disc converts into heat. The faster you drive, the more energy you produce, thus generating more heat when the brakes are applied to it. Over time, the heat your brakes produce can wear down its important components, leading to costly repairs and potential damage to your brakes. If you practice slower driving habits, your vehicle will put less stress on your brakes.

Practice Coasting

A great way to reduce your chances of stopping at high speeds is by coasting while you drive. Allowing your vehicle to naturally slow down before applying your brakes at a stop will save you on fuel costs as well as reduce the wear on your brakes. However, keeping an eye on other drivers while you're on the road is an extremely important safety tactic! Remaining mindful of other drivers' behaviors will keep you and your passengers safe.

Consider What You Carry

Whether you're commuting to work or heading out on a road trip, the luggage you keep in your vehicle will directly affect important components on your brakes. The added weight to your vehicle will add pressure and make it more difficult for your brakes to slow down the vehicle, wearing them down at a much faster rate than normal. Keeping your vehicle light and free of excess weight will allow your brakes to perform efficiently without any unnecessary pressure.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

It's impossible to predict the behavior of other drivers on the road. Sometimes, drivers will brake or swerve between lanes for no reason, potentially causing the vehicles behind them to have to slam on their brakes. To avoid this, give yourself a wide berth between other vehicles while you're on the freeway to increase your safety and the longevity of your brakes. That way, you'll avoid having to perform unnecessary stops on the road that would otherwise wear your brakes down. Practice this mindful habit next time you're on the freeway!

Have Your Brakes Serviced

One of the best ways to ensure your brakes last a long time is to have regular maintenance performed on them. Investing in regular brake maintenance can help you to avoid expensive replacement costs in the future. If you'd like to have your brakes looked at, bring your vehicle in to the Graff Okemos Service Center! Our attentive staff will go above and beyond to ensure your brakes are working at their absolute best. You can schedule an appointment online without having to leave your couch!

The condition of your brakes can be the difference between a potential accident and remaining unharmed out on the road. Follow our 5 tips to increase the life of your brakes listed above to help keep your brake pads, discs, calipers and other components in good condition. If you plan on having your brakes looked at, utilize our wide array of coupons for brake inspection or other maintenance services to help save you money!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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MSU Tailgating Activities and Tips

OKEMOS, Mich., – Kick off the football season in style this year! The Michigan State Spartans are ready to take on the Big Ten and whatever else college football has in store for them with an energetic and fired up roster this season. If you plan on heading out to a game at Spartan Stadium this year, use these MSU tailgating activities and tips to make your trip to East Lansing unforgettable. Enjoy a safe and fun tailgate this football season by participating in old MSU traditions and enjoying the best East Lansing has to offer. Sparty on!

Bring the Fun to the Tailgate

One of the best ways to enjoy tailgating is by bringing the fun with you! Grab a few friends or family members and bring along cornhole or lawn golf to enjoy some games of your own before kickoff. If you want to try something a little different, give these lawn games a shot for a unique tailgating experience!

Checklist of Tailgate Supplies

When you head out to tailgate, you'll want to cook food and bring some entertainment along while you wait for the game to start. Make sure to pack all of these supplies:

• Trash bags
• Grill
• Grilling supplies (tongs, charcoal, spatula, lighter, matches, etc.)
• Plates, plastic silverware, paper towels, napkins, etc.
• Cutting board
• Canopy tent (MSU tailgate rules note that it can't be any larger than 10ftx10ft)
• Lawn chairs
• Main and side dishes
• Cooler
• First aid kit (just in case!)
• Rain ponchos
• Jumper cables
• Football

Grab a Bite to Eat

If you don't feel like cooking or want to explore Downtown Lansing, we've got the perfect list of places to try! For a quick bite to eat, head out to any of these restaurants before the game:

• Menna's Joint: grilled wraps and sandwiches with uniquely crafted recipes
• Backyard Bar-B-Q: barbecue joint with a wide array of sides
• Stateside Deli: deli sandwiches, cheesesteaks, and the "Famous #32"
• Waterfront Grill: organic dishes, locally sourced ingredients, and more
• Westlund's Apple Market: local grocery store featuring a wide range of to-go foods

Pre-Game Warmup on Adams Field

Every year, fans bring their blankets and set up their tailgates near Adams field to get the perfect view for the pre-game warmups! About 2 hours before the game, the band members arrive and warm up on different parts of the field. Once the Sousaphone section arrives, the whole band breaks out into a show for all of the fans gathered around! The band quickly breaks into "The Series", an MSU game day tradition, before heading down Red Cedar Road to the stadium. 

Enjoy a Safe and Fun Tailgate

Most importantly, make sure you have a fun and safe tailgate experience! Read up on MSU's tailgate safety rules to ensure that you don't break any rules while you enjoy your day. If you have any questions or are curious about a specific rule, contact MSU's game day department for more information. Following the rules and cooperating with the police will allow you to enjoy all the pre-game festivities before the game!

One of the best ways to have fun from beginning to end at an MSU game is by enjoying a great tailgate before the team hits the field. Have a fun and safe experience before you make your way to Spartan Stadium by taking part in these MSU tailgating activities and tips. Fun fact: not only is it college football season, it's also SUV season! Browse our new vehicle inventory to find exclusive discounts and offers, and use some of our rebates and incentives to enjoy price reductions on new and used vehicles in our lot! 

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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Chevy Bolt EV Provides a Fun Autocross Experience

OKEMOS, Mich.,–– Autocross is a timed competition where drivers navigate through traffic cones to showcase their driving skills and the vehicle's handling in a safe, monitored, and controlled environment. The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV may not seem like the type of vehicle that isn't fit for this type of competition, but the smaller size, hatchback body style, and surprising speed make it a great competitor. The Chevy bolt EV provides a fun autocross experience to first-timers as well as veterans who want to blaze through the course with impressive times.

The 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV's 60 kWh lithium ion battery pack allowing the vehicle to go from zero to 60 MPH in just 6.5 seconds. The vehicle also puts out an impressive 266 lb-ft of torque that makes the Bolt's little wheels squeal on the pavement when the pedal is put to the metal, but that's about all you'll hear - the lack of revving may seem a little out of place at an autocross competition. However, speed and power don't necessarily determine a driver's success at an autocross event. The Bolt EV's batteries, located low and directly on the chassis, allow this hatch to remain steady through the tight curves and turns on an autocross course.

The best part about the 2017 Bolt EV? Even after three hours of autocrossing, you'll still have more than enough battery life to get home. The Bolt EV carries an average of 238 miles of electric range in driving. You can drive the Chevy Bolt EV slow, fast, or anywhere in between and still receive an efficient and mileage-minded drive! According to Chevrolet, the Bolt EV's battery range is perfect for the average commute to and from work and provides more than enough mileage to get drivers through an autocross event.

"If Chevrolet was using this autocross to change the conversation around electric cars, it has succeeded. Where EVs used to have a singular purpose of making every electron count, the Bolt EV does that all while being fun and not being so quirky and strange that it draws unwelcome judgment and confused looks (hello, Prius). The Chevrolet Bolt EV could be the electric car that leads to broader adoption: It’s green, practical, actually affordable, comfortable, versatile, and, as I learned during the autocross, it can perform." - Jodi Lai, AutoGuide

The Chevy Bolt EV provides a fun autocross experience for those who prefer to compete record-breaking speeds and times, but also a fun daily driving experience for all other drivers. Download the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV vehicle brochure and view our Bolt EV inventory today to see what's available in Okemos, MI! Find something you like? We can set up a test drive at your convenience so you can experience the power of the Bolt EV in person!

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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Cookout Recipes to Try Before Summer Ends

OKEMOS, Mich.,–– Make the most of these warm and sunny days while you can, because summer is almost over! The end of the summer is the perfect time to gather the whole family together for one last cookout or get together before school starts up again and the weather starts to cool down. Impress your guests or your host with these cookout recipes to try before summer ends. Below you'll find a few appetizers, side dishes, entrees, and desserts. Enjoy!

Appetizer: Fruit Salsa with Cinnamon Chips

With kiwis, apples, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries, this customizable fruit "salsa" is the perfect topper for homemade cinnamon chips! Fruit salsa and cinnamon chips are a great, healthy appetizer to kick off a fun cookout. Plus, this dish is extremely easy to make and serves up to 8 people.

Appetizer: Salsa De Tomatillo (Green Salsa)

For those of you still craving a savory sort of salsa after reading the last recipe, worry not: this salsa de tomatillo, or green salsa, will satisfy! This green take on salsa is tasty dip for tortilla chips, but can also be used in other dishes - like on top of chicken enchiladas. Get creative with it! 

Side Dish: 7-Layer Pasta Salad

This layered salad is packed to the brim with  pasta, avocado, broccoli, tomatoes, lettuce, ham, and cheese so you can enjoy everything you love in one scoop. This dish is great because you can assemble each layer separately without worrying about tossing afterwards. Use ranch dressing to make this dish extra tasty!  

Side Dish: Grilled Corn

Grilled corn is a cookout classic, but did you know there are so many different ways to serve it? This recipe provides a wide variety of topping combinations, from bacon-wrapped corn to barbecue sauce and potato chips! Give a few of these a try to take your grilled corn to the next level. 

Entree: Triple B Burgers

The three B's on the Triple B Burgers stand for burger, barbecue, and bourbon sauce. This Guy Fieri staple should satisfy all your guest, including those particular burger afficianados. Give the Triple B a go at your next cookout to see why Guy Fieri ranks it as one of his all-time favorites!

Entree: Chicken, Bacon, & Ranch Skewers

What goes better with chicken than bacon and ranch? The assembly of these skewers is relatively easy and the grilling is quick. You can drizzle the ranch on top before serving, or with a side of ranch so your guests can dip to their liking. Put a BLT spin on these skewers and serve with lettuce! 

Dessert: S'mores Krispie Treats

S'mores Krispie Treats. Need we say any more? Using chocolate, marshmallows, Golden Grahams cereal, and butter, you'll have a less messy, no-bake s'more dessert ready for 20 people at one time! This is the ideal summer dessert you can enjoy out of season without the campfire, too. 

Dessert: Banana Split Kebabs

Looking for a slightly healthier alternative for a dessert? Banana Split Kebabs use bananas, pineapple, strawberries, and a chocolate drizzle and crushed peanut topping for a super sweet healthy kebab. You can skip the chocolate and throw these on the grill for a caramelized touch, or use sugar-free chocolate to make it a little healthier. 

If you're planning on making your next get-together the best one yet, use these end of the summer cookout recipes to make the best appetizers, side dishes, entrees, and desserts your guests could ask for! If you want to brush up on your cooking skills before the big get-together, try these amazingly easy summer recipes to get started. Headed on a trip for Labor Day? Make sure to check your tires, oil, windshield wiper fluid, and other important components before you take off. See our routine maintenance tips online or stop by to have our experts give your vehicle a quick inspection! 

Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864

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