I Love Graff Okemos: January 2018

Wednesday, January 31, 2018

Chevy Displays Multiple Vehicles at NAIAS 2018

OKEMOS, Mich., –– Didn't get a chance to stroll around the latest advances in vehicle technology at the North American International Auto Show this year? Don't worry. We've gathered photos of the best Chevy's that were on display other than the 2019 Silverado. Chevy's display really took over the showroom floor this year with a plethora of vehicles to look at and a behind-the-scenes virtual reality experience. Keep reading to take an in-depth look at the multiple vehicles that Chevy displayed at NAIAS 2018.

2018 Chevrolet Tahoe

Chevy Displays Multiple Vehicles at NAIAS 2018

Named the "Most Dependable Large SUV" by J.D. Power, the 2018 Tahoe is the ultimate full-size SUV with its unmatched space and advanced infotainment features. It's confident, capable, and connected.

2018 Chevrolet Malibu

Affordable and efficient, the Chevy Malibu is the simple choice. Safety is at an all-time high in this capable mid-size sedan as it was an IIHS Top Safety Pick in 2017. With up to 36 MPG highway, this car stands out amongst the rest.

2018 Chevrolet Camaro

The 2018 Camaro packs impressive performance in a sports car. If you are looking for a thrill unlike anything else, you'll want to get behind the wheel of one. Four available powertrain options also make this sports car a custom choice.

2018 Chevrolet Silverado

Although the 2019 Silverado was revealed at the Auto Show, it still won't become available until the end of the year. In the meantime, the 2018 Chevy Silverado boasts both strength and dependability that you can get right now. With available towing of up to 12,500 lbs., this heavy-duty workhorse is perfect for any big project.

2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

This luxurious supercar made a debut at the Auto Show this year. The 2019 Corvette ZR1 delivers the icon's fastest, most powerful, and most advanced performance to date. If you didn't have an opportunity to catch a glimpse of this mostly carbon-fiber sports car, you can get more details here.

High-tech, compelling, impressive, and cutting-edge are just a few of the many adjectives describing Chevy's newest models. Whatever your needs are, this company has a vehicle for you. If you missed your opportunity to visit the North American International Auto Show, you can get a complete recap of the event on its official website. We've put together a list of multiple Chevy vehicles on display at NAIAS 2018 to give you a peek at what was on the showroom floor. If you're ready to get your hand on one of these superior rides, take a look at our complete inventory online. Once you find a ride you like, contact our dealership so that we can answer any questions you may have!

Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is committed to providing you with top-notch service and convenience close to home. Let our friendly team of Chevy professionals at Hank Graff Okemos help you find your dream car – simply call us at (517) 349-8300 or visit our showroom, located at 1748 W. Grand River Okemos, MI 48864. We’re just minutes from Lansing!

Tuesday, January 23, 2018

The Completely Redesigned 2019 Chevy Silverado Is Here

OKEMOS, Mich., –– 100 years after Chevy delivered its first trucks to customers, the next generation of Silverado's was released. With more capabilities and astounding performance, this new truck is sure to get people out of their seats. If you're ready for Chevy's new wave of dependable and long-lasting trucks, the completely redesigned 2019 Silverado is here. Step up your game this year with increased performance and functionality making way for a new century of trucks to come.

"With the all-new Silverado, we've taken the best truck on the road and made it even better," said Mark Reuss, General Motors executive vice president of Global Product Development, Purchasing and Supply Chain. "It has a longer wheelbase, more passenger and cargo volume, and yet, thanks to our mixed materials strategy and mass reduction expertise, the new truck is 450 pounds lighter than the current model."

The Chevy Silverado is back in the 2019 model year with a new design and impressive features and specs. Check out this truck's most notable improvements:

Weight, Suspension, & Engine

Up to 450 pounds lighter than the current model
Forged-aluminum upper control arms that are lighter and provide better wheel alignment
Lighter composite second-stage springs on LT models
Available six engine/transmission combinations
New 5.3L and 6.2L V-8s with industry-first Dynamic-Fuel Management
All-new Duramax 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel

Truck Bed

Most functional bed of any full-size truck
Most cargo volume in every bed length

Short-box offers 63 cubic feet of volume

Higher-strength steel floor
Stronger tie-downs

12 fixed tie-downs
Strength doubled to 500 pounds of force before bending

Available power up/down tailgate
Available 120-volt power outlet

Trim Levels

Eight distinct models
Designed to fit the needs and wants of each customer
No "one size fits most" trucks

High Value:

Work Truck
Custom
Custom Trailboss (new for 2019)

High Volume:

LT
RST (new for 2019)
LT Trailboss (new for 2019)

High Feature:

LTZ
High Country

Interior

Comfortable seating
More interior cargo storage
Easy-to-use controls
3 inches of additional rear-seat legroom
Two 10-liter bins integrated in the second-row seatbacks for holding small items
One large 24-liter storage tray under the second-row seat for securing big items
New safety and convenience features

"Truck customers told us they depend on their trucks for much more than just transportation," said Tim Herrick, executive chief engineer of Full-Size Trucks. "Many use their trucks to earn a paycheck, or to do what they enjoy most when they're off the clock. Given how important trucks are to our customers, we set a lofty goal for exceeding the dependability and longevity of the current Silverado."

The 2019 Chevy Silverado is full of new features and packs a powerful performance that is sure to raise the bar for generations to come. Dependable, long-lasting, functional, and capable are just a few of the many characteristics used to describe this new heavy-duty pickup. You can check out the complete details per each trim level on Chevy's website.

If you're ready to intensify your pickup truck experience, the completely redesigned 2019 Chevy Silverado is here. With multiple trim levels to choose from, there's a model to suit everyone's needs. Expected to be released sometime in the fall of this year, the 2019 Silverado will make a bold statement when it hits showroom floors. Looking to buy a new Silverado right now? Shop our 2017/2018 inventory and compare trim levels on our model overview page. Give us a call at (517)349-8300 if you have any questions or would like to schedule a test drive!

Monday, January 22, 2018

22 Compliments You Can Give This Week

OKEMOS, Mich., –– January 24th is National Compliment Day. There's no better time to make someone feel good about themselves. Instead of choosing this one day to lift someone's spirits, why not give your friends, family, coworkers, or significant other a compliment every day throughout the entire week? On behalf of all the negativity in the world, sharing kindness and honesty is the perfect pick-me-up for those around you. Try using one or more of these 22 compliments you can give this week:

1. "You're a really strong person."

2. "You always inspire me."

3. "I'm so thankful for you."

4. "You are an amazing friend."

5. "You have a beautiful heart."

6. "You're a wonderful mother."

7. "You look stunning today."

8. "You're very good at what you do."

9. "You're my favorite person to spend time with."

10. "Thanks for always having my back."

11. "Your smile is contagious."

12. "I really appreciate you."

13. "You have a great sense of humor."

14. "You really bring out the best in people."

15. "You're a great example to others."

16. "I'm lucky to have you in my life."

17. "You're really something special."

18. "You always light up the room."

19. "I am a better person because of you."

20. "I've never met someone like you before."

21. "You're such a humble and genuine person."

22. "I love your positive energy."

Make someone's day a little brighter by spreading love and positive energy. These 22 compliments you can give this week are the perfect words for someone near and dear to you. Even the smallest compliment will go a long way. Just remember: You don't have to share your thoughtfulness just this week. Always be kind and appreciative of others every chance you get. While you share your kindness, make sure your vehicle gets the proper care it needs this winter season. With our car care tips, your vehicle will be running in tip top shape all year long. Treat your car to a well-deserved gift this new year: WeatherTech floor mats. You'll protect your vehicle's interior from getting destroyed by dirt, mud, and snow. There's no better time to make sure your car performs and looks its best!

Thursday, January 18, 2018

Outdoor Winter Activities in the Lansing Area

OKEMOS, Mich., –– Get out and enjoy the beautiful winter season in Michigan this year. Although staying indoors does sound ideal during the cold, there's plenty of fun to be had outside. Whether you try your hand at cross-country skiing or hit the local sledding hill, you'll enjoy our top picks of outdoor winter activities in the Lansing area. So bundle up, get in the car, and head to one of these winter destinations:

1. Snowshoe/Cross-Country Ski at Fitzgerald Park & Lincoln Brick Park.

2. Visit the animals at Potter Park Zoo.

3. Go ice skating and sledding at Granger Meadows Park.

4. Sled down two different hills at Burchfield Park.

5. Explore the Fenner Nature Center.

6. Drop down sculpted snow lanes at Hawk Island.

Winter is full of fun activities to enjoy in the sparkling white snow. Go on an adventure this season and try something new. There's plenty of outdoor winter activities in the Lansing area that'll get your heart pumping. After your winter day trip, warm up with one of our winter soup recipes. Nothing beats a delicious bowl of soup to enjoy on these cold days. Before you take your adventure, make sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road by brushing up on our winter car care tips. Schedule an appointment with our service center if you're in need of routine maintenance!

Monday, January 15, 2018

Winter Soup Recipes

OKEMOS, Mich., –– Staying indoors and bundling up are two essential parts of keeping warm during the cold winter months. This season not only comes with snow, but comes with the increased chances of catching a cold or the flu. We all try to prevent symptoms from rising to the surface by taking medication or creating our own home remedies; however, one of the best treatments can be a nice hot bowl of soup. There's nothing better than slurping up this heated liquid to help us soothe our throats and refrain from cold temps. Whether you're looking to stay warm on a chilly winter night or you're in need of a remedy for your sickness, these winter soup recipes will take care of the job:

Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Spicy Veggie & Lentil Soup

Cook Time: 6-1/2 hours

Potato Bacon Chowder

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Slow Cooked Mexican Beef Soup

Cook Time: 6 hours

Fiesta Turkey Tortilla Soup

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Garlicky Cheddar Cheese Bisque

Cook Time: 40 minutes

Italian Sausage Zucchini Soup

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Zesty Chicken & Rice Soup

Cook Time: 1 hr 15 minutes

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Quick & Spicy Tomato Soup

Cook Time: 12 minutes

No matter what type of flavor you're looking for, we've got you covered. Try one of these delicious winter soup recipes to keep warm and cure your sore throat this cold season. Whether you're looking for exquisite taste or something simple, there's plenty of recipe ideas you'll be sure to enjoy! While you take on the nimble cold this winter, make sure to keep your body and skin hydrated. Treat your dry skin with these 5 simple tips. It's important to take care of not only yourself during the winter, but your vehicle as well. Find a safe and reliable ride, like the 2018 Chevy Equinox, to ensure you get to where you need to during snowy and icy weather conditions! You can view our full inventory online to see what other SUVs we have available as well.

Wednesday, January 10, 2018

5 Tips to Treat Dry Skin

OKEMOS, Mich., –– Dry skin is inevitable during the winter season. We all get it. To combat our cracked, hard skin, we lather our hands and body up with lotion. Following this typical skin care routine may not always work. It's time to step up your game and try out a new method. These 5 tips to treat dry skin will help you soothe and moisten those problem areas so that you can put moisture back in.

1. Immediately apply moisturizer after washing.

Within a few minutes of drying off after a shower or washing your face and hands, apply an ointment, cream, or lotion. These moisturizers work to trap the existing moisture in your skin.

2. Use an ointment or cream, rather than a lotion.

Lotions can be more irritating and less effective than an ointment or cream. Try a moisturizer that includes olive oil or jojoba oil. Shea butter is another great moisturizer to try as well.

3. Wear gloves.

We tend to notice our dry skin on our hands very first. By wearing gloves, you can reduce chapped and raw skin. Wear your gloves when you go outside and when you use chemicals and greases that may get on your hands.

4. Plug in a humidifier.

Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air is as simple as it sounds. It'll reduce the dryness and help your skin feel better as a whole.

5. Control your baths and showers.

To help prevent dry skin, make sure your bathroom door is shut, cut your time in the shower or bath to just 5 or 10 minutes, use warm water instead of hot, wash with a fragrance free cleanser, and gently pat dry your skin with a towel.

Get your skin back on track with these 5 tips to treat dry skin. Lotion isn't the only soothing treatment to try this winter season. After you ensure your skin receives proper care, start the new year off by setting reachable goals. Check out our blog for ideas on fitness, health, financial, and relationship goals you can set for yourself. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, learn the difference between buying and leasing. Now's the perfect chance to get extra savings on a brand new Chevy. It's time to put the focus on yourself this new year by making sure your health and happiness are a priority!

Monday, January 8, 2018

Reachable Goals to Set for the New Year

OKEMOS, Mich., –– Not quite sure what resolutions to set for yourself this year? Don't worry, it's not a requirement. Instead, focus on setting goals that are easy to achieve and will improve the quality of your life in several different areas. Whether it be fitness and health or finances and relationships, there are probably a number of objectives you've been looking to accomplish. Jumpstart your list of 'to-dos' with a number of reachable goals that you can set for the new year. Big or small, these ideas will get you on the right track for a prosperous and happy year!

Fitness

Stop doing the workout you hate. There are plenty of ways to burn calories besides running. Try a different high-calorie workout like dance cardio, indoor cycling, or even yoga.
Although cardio is an essential part of any workout routine, it's also good to give your body a rest. Your knees take a lot of impact from cardio exercises. Reduce all that pressure by regularly adding a low-impact workout, such as walking or strength training.
Start weightlifting. As much as you may think that cardio is the biggest way to drop pounds, it's not. Weightlifting will help you boost your metabolism and build strength while burning fat.
Ditch the scale. The number on the scale doesn't mean anything. Muscle weighs more than fat; so if you start weightlifting, your weight may actually increase.
Foam roll your muscles. Giving your muscles proper care is critical for them to heal faster. Foam rolling is a great way to rub out your body and give it the massage it needs. Always remember, your recovery is just as important as your workout.

Health

Learn to make a new healthy recipe. Once you find something you love, take advantage of the opportunity to create your new favorite hearty dish. It may take a little trial and error, but it'll be worth it.
Ditch the foods you hate. Force feeding yourself foods that you don't have a taste for just because they're "healthy" will make your diet plans backfire. Find healthy foods that you love instead of eating the ones you hate.
Don't skip out on breakfast. As they say, "it's the most important meal of the day". It's easy to make breakfast healthy and packed full of protein.
Create a bedtime routine. By starting a nightly ritual, you'll feel more at ease and will be able to snooze more! After all, sleep is very important for our bodies.
Stop beating yourself up. Not physically, but mentally. Give yourself more compliments and make this year more about you. If you're happier with yourself, you'll be happier in many other facets of life.

Financial

Get a handle on your credit score. Begin taking steps to improve your credit and get it back on track. You can start by paying off debt and keeping low balances on your credit cards.
Get your taxes done early this year. Don't wait until the last minute to get all of your documents together. You'll avoid the stress and hassle of scrounging everything together and will feel a lot better once you're all done!
Set a budget for yourself. This allows you to exercise discipline when it comes to how much money you're spending on needs and wants. By setting a budget, you'll reach your financial goals much faster.
Start saving. Set a goal of how much you want to save and start working towards it. Make it attainable and as large as you can manage. Set a certain amount of money aside out of each paycheck to start saving towards your goal.
Pay off your debt. All the more reason you need to set a savings goal for yourself. Paying off bad debt should be a priority so that you're debt-free and stress-free.

Relationship

Commit to small and measurable changes. Fixing the little things makes the biggest impact. Slowly but surely, you'll feel more empowered about tackling major issues and will lead a happier life.
Ditch the cell phones. Focus on spending more quality time with your partner. Our society is too dependent on technology, making it hard to truly spend time with that special someone. Put the phones down and try enjoying each other's company. It will make a huge difference!
Treat each other as kindly as you treat your friends. Often times, couples treat friends and family with more respect and kindness. Instead of getting too comfortable with your partner, give them your upmost attention and kindness, as you would anyone else.
Upgrade your date night. Start trying new things together. This could even be as simple as trying a new restaurant together or going to a new vacation destination. While you may feel apt to having date night at the places you feel comfortable, it can lead to boredom and dissatisfaction.
Motivate each other. Whether it's working on fitness, cooking a new meal, learning a new skill, or even picking up a new hobby, motivating your significant other will keep you both happy and ready to take on the next adventure.

Getting the motivation to make changes in your life may be difficult, but with a little guidance, you'll be on the path to achieving your goals for 2018 in no time. Start small and work your way up from there. Tackling the little things can make it easier to tackle something big you've been wanting to accomplish. Our list of reachable goals to set for the new year will help you get on the right track for a year full of success and happiness! Another great way to start the year off is by having routine maintenance performed on your vehicle. Keeping up on your car's major components will ensure it continues to run great down the road. While you schedule an appointment online, be sure to check out our new vehicle inventory. We keep our stock up to date so that you know what's available at all times!

Thursday, January 4, 2018

Chevy Tahoe Named Edmunds' 2018 Buyers Most Wanted Large SUV

OKEMOS, Mich., –– Edmunds named their "Buyers Most Wanted" awards and among them was a Chevy. This spacious vehicle that can fit up to a family of 7 and is also the best-selling and most popular vehicle in its class on Edmunds. Yep, you might have guessed it, but the Chevy Tahoe was named Edmunds' 2018 Buyers Most Wanted Large SUV. A favorite amid shoppers who love functionality and space in a vehicle, it's a no wonder why the Tahoe was the top pick.

To make the 'Buyers Most Wanted' list, Edmunds chooses the 17 most popular vehicles among vehicle shoppers according to sales data and shopping trends. Data is analyzed from the first nine months of 2017 for all models on sale during that time period. Vehicles are then ranked by highest overall sales, fastest selling speed, and two types of shopper consideration metrics on Edmunds' site. Whatever vehicle is winning the wallets and hearts of buyers in each segment, is awarded the title.

The Chevy Tahoe is a favorite among many. Some of this full-size SUV's most notable features include:

Rear Park Assist
OnStar®1 with 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi® hotspot
Apple CarPlay
5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine
355 HP
Outside heated power-adjustable manual folding, body-color mirrors
Chevrolet MyLink®1 Audio system
Rear Vision Camera

With advanced technology, powerful performance, and refined styling, the Chevy Tahoe wears the crown in the large SUV segment. It's not only a fan favorite, but a top pick among car experts.

You can view the complete list of 2018 Buyers Most Wanted Awards here. Through extensive buyer analysis and sales, the Chevy Tahoe was named Edmunds' 2018 Buyers Most Wanted Large SUV. This full-size vehicle provides impressive suspension for a smooth drive and plenty of infotainment options for a truly unique ride experience. You can take a look at the Tahoe's complete list of specifications and features per trim level by downloading the digital brochure. Once you're ready to get your hands on your own, start shopping our Tahoe inventory online. If you don't find the one you're looking for, give us a call at (517)349-8300 and we'll help you get into the Tahoe you've always wanted.

Tuesday, January 2, 2018

Top-Rated Winter Boots, Scarves, and Gloves

OKEMOS, Mich., –– As the winter season grows colder, it's important to stay warm in Michigan's freezing temps. Whether you're headed outside for a short or long period of time, you'll want to have the best boots and accessories to keep you cozy. Our list of top-rated winter boots, scarves, and gloves will ensure your safety in the extreme cold and look stylish, too. Check them out:

Boots (Men)

The North Face Chilkat III

Kamik NationPlus Boot

Merrell Moab Polar

Boots (Women)

The North Face Shellista II

Sorel Tivoli III

UGG Adirondack II

Scarves (Men)

Alpine Swiss Plaid Scarf

Marino's Winter Cashmere Feel Men's Scarf

Ted and Jack Classic Cashmere Feel Buffalo Check Scarf

Scarves (Women)

Loritta Womens Fashion Long Plaid Scarf

Wrapables Thick Knitted Winter Warm Infinity Scarf

Columbia Women's Fast Trek Scarf

Gloves (Men)

Carhartt Men's W.P. Waterproof Insulated Glove

Fox River Four Layer Glove

The North Face Men's Denali Etip Glove

Gloves (Women)

LETHMIK Unique Cuff Winter Gloves

Metog Suede Thinsulate Thermal Insulation Mittens

Columbia Women's Fast Trek Glove

In a perfect world, we wouldn't freeze the minute we stepped outside in the winter. However, since we are in this together, check out our top-rated winter boots, scarves, and gloves that will help you battle the cold weather this season. Stay warm and stylish in these freezing temperatures! While you search for the perfect winter accessories, brush up on our Winter Car Care tips to ensure your vehicle is ready to handle the cold weather, too. If you are in need of a new car to help get you through the winter season, browse our new vehicle inventory. Once you find a car you like, give our sales team a call at (517) 349-8300 to set up a test drive!