Hank Graff Chevrolet - Bay City: December 2018

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

10 Songs to Help You Start the New Year Off Right

BAY CITY, Mich. -- What comes to mind when you think of the new year? Excitement for all the new opportunities that await you? A chance to start fresh and begin anew? Or maybe even evolve to become a better you? At Graff Bay City, we've assembled this awesome playlist with songs that capture all the New Year feels. Without further ado, here are 10 songs to help you start 2019 off on the right foot!

1. "FEELING GOOD" by Nina Simone It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life for you! Yeah, we know how you feel. As the clock strikes midnight, you're feeling good.

2. "SKYSCRAPER" by Demi Lovato No matter what you went through this year, there's no doubt that you'll be rising from the ground like a skyscraper in 2019. You made it this far, don't give up now!

3. "THE PROMISE OF A NEW DAY" by Paula Abdul What will change the world? No one knows. We're only promised a chance to do it all. So take advantage of these brand new 365 days to make a difference in your life or that of someone else!

4. "EDGE OF GLORY" by Lady Gaga Enter the new year with no regrets. Just be you, unapologetically. You're on the edge of glory! Go forth and conquer!

5. "FIREWORK" by Katy Perry You're gonna leave 'em all in awe. Start 2019 off with a bang, and take whatever opportunities that come your way!

6. "THIS IS WAR" by Thirty Seconds to Mars Whatever challenges await you in the new year, face them head-on. Lift your hands toward to sun, it's a brave new world for everyone!

7. "WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS" by Queen You've had your share of rough spots this year, it's been no bed of roses, but you made it through. Show 2019 that you're a force to be reckoned with!

8. "DON'T STOP BELIEVIN'" by Journey Don't stop believin'! Hold on to that feelin'! Make 2019 a year to remember!

9. "COME SAIL AWAY" by Styx Look back on the memories of 2018, happy and sad, and see how far you come. Then sail away into the new year and make it better than the last!

10. "DREAM ON" by Aerosmith
Nobody knows exactly what the future holds, but never stop dreaming of what it could be. You have the power to change it this year!

What songs are on your New Years playlist? Tell us in the comments!

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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The First-Ever Medium-Duty Silverados Are Now In Production

BAY CITY, Mich. -- The Chevrolet Silverado 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD - a first for the model line - are officially in production and on their way to dealerships across the country. The trio of beastly pick-up trucks was first unveiled at the 2018 NTEA Work Truck Show, and are designed to be the most customer-focused of any medium-duty trucks in the industry. This launch tops off a record year for GM Commercial, with an expected double-digit year-over-year sales increase.

“When we decided to get back into the medium-duty segment, we were determined to build the truck our customers have been asking for,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, GM Fleet. “We listened to the needs of fleet managers, truck drivers, technicians and dealers to design a truck that’s easy to upfit, easy to drive, easy to service and easy to own.”

Due to a clean, straight line rail design free of rivets, brackets, or welds - the new Silverado trucks are popular with upfitters. On top of that, a total of seven cab-to-axle lengths can work for a variety of upfits. The trucks are drawing particularly strong interest from the housing and highway construction, landscaping, and utility industries.

“Demand for the new Silverado medium duty has been exceptionally strong from dealers, Upfitter, and customers,” said John Schwegman, director of commercial product and medium duty, GM Fleet. “With our large vehicle portfolio from sedans to crossovers to large trucks, our Chevy Business Elite dealers can offer commercial customers a one-stop shop that supports their business needs.”

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

The 2019 Chevy Silverado Makes Daytona 500 History

BAY CITY, Mich. -- For the first time in Daytona 500 history, the race will be paced by a pickup truck, and the winner of this honor is the 2019 Chevy Silverado. The driver? Someone who's used to leading the pack, Dale Earnhardt Jr, a two-time winner winner of the Daytona 500 among other prestigious racing awards.

"I've had a lot of fun and a lot of success at Daytona over the years, and now I can't wait to get out on that track in a Silverado" Said Earnhardt Jr. " "Away from the track, I've driven Chevy trucks all my life, and I'm excited to have this unique experiencing of pacing the race with the Silverado". While Chevrolet has had the honor of pacing the race several times with the Camaro and Corvette models, this is an all-new step, that particularly excites the company, due to their recent successes in creating cutting-edge truck models. Jim Campbell, U.S. vice president of Chevrolet Performance Vehicles and Motorsports said "It'll be exciting to have Dale lead the field to green in the strongest, most advanced Silverado ever...he was the perfect choice to pace the race due to his enthusiasm for the sport and his long history with Chevrolet and long of our trucks.".

The Silverado pace truck will be powered by a production 6.2L V-8 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 420 HP and a 460 lb-ft of torque.

Silverado fans! Are you excited to watch this historical race? What do you think of the choice to use a truck as the race pacer? Comment and let us know!

Friday, December 21, 2018

5 Mindfulness Apps You Have to Try

BAY CITY, Mich. -- Mindfulness. It's a straightforward idea, suggesting that your mind is fully attending to what's happening, what you're doing, and space you're moving through. This might seem simple, or even trivial, but in our modern world that seems to move at the speed of light and is full of distractions, a seemingly simple practice like mindfulness can become overly difficult. But never fear, the world of apps is here! Check out our picks for the top 5 tools in your app store to bring the science of calm and cool into our lifestyle.

1. HEADSPACE

If you've always wanted to try implementing meditation techniques into your daily schedule but never thought you'd have the time, this is the solution for you. It teaches basic mindfulness strategies in a fun and engaging way, in addition to offering 2-3 minute guided meditation sessions that explore topics like sleep, stress, focus and exercise. If you're still having a hard time sticking with the app, you can add friends to keep you motivated and on track.

2. MINDMEISTER

Does your brain move a million miles a minute? Welcome to the club. Sometimes the issue doesn't necessarily have to do with mental capacity, but the ability to organize and focus on the thoughts that lead us towards health, organization, and success. Enter mindmapping. This process allows you to brainstorm in your usual chaotic manner, visually chart them out in no particular order, and then organize them into cohesive ideas and strategies. MindMeister can be used on it's online interface or from the app. You can create unlimited thought maps, add files and images, and export them to a PDF or PNG!

3. AMBI PRO

For most of us, especially those that live in major cities, our surroundings are boisterous, distracting, and can even be stress-inducing. Fill your day with ambient sounds to relax and concentrate your mind, focus more on your important thoughts, and block out the almost inescapable white noise of modern life. Ambi Pro utilizes looping audio recordings with a special algorithm that creates a blend of changing, soft noises that doesn't bore your agile brain. In addition, it utilizes special digital reverb to give the sounds a sense of wholeness and depth. You can design and save your own presets, as well as program the sounds to switch on and off at specific times for total ambiance control.

4. DAY ONE

For some of us, the best way to identify, understand, and manage our thoughts are to write them down. Day One is a journaling tool that offers a beautiful, easy to use interface that aims to help you keep a clear mind. There are no ads, no distractions so you can focus, uninterrupted. It's full of fun features that will make journaling seem like a hobby, and less like a chore, like the ability to add pictures, import iPhone metadata so you can flesh out your entries with information like weather, news stories, and music you played that day. It also features numerous organization options so you can browse your entries by calendar, timeline, maps or photos!

5. CALM

Created by a software company, of the same name, Calm is one of the highest-reviewed mindfulness and meditation apps on the market, and is even therapist recommended! It offers a wide range of guided meditations to assist you in bringing relaxation into your life, with selections ranging from 3-25 minute sessions. Other features include Daily Calm, a 10-minute program you can practice at the beginning or end of your day, breathing exercises, sleep stories, and more!

Have you tried any of these apps? If so, what did you think? Tell us in the comments, we love hearing from you!

Friday, December 14, 2018

National Look On the Bright Side Day: 5 Ways to Change Your Outlook for the Better

BAY CITY, Mich. -- December 21st is what's known as the Winter Solstice. Otherwise known as "midwinter", it is the shortest day and the longest night of the year, due to Earth's poles having maximum tilt away from the sun. In some cultures, it's a day of celebration. However, that extra long period of darkness coupled with the already limited sunlight during this season can wreak havoc on the emotional state of many people.

The good news is, December 21st also happens to be National Look on the Bright Side Day! In honor of this day dedicated to seeing the light during the literally darkest time of the year, we at Graff Bay City would like to share with you five ways you use this day to change your outlook for the better!

1. POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS

Out of all the people you know, there's just one that has the most influence on you: yourself! When you wake up in the morning, start by listing off all the wonderful things that make you an individual, and therefore special. Or challenge yourself to write down five things that you like about yourself. Focus on your qualities, rather than your faults.

2. FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL

It's a fact of life that we can't control absolutely everything - but we can control how we perceive and react to what happens. Instead of dwelling on a negative situation, start thinking of ways you can make it better. You almost always have a choice.

3. EMBRACE CHANGE

"Change" is a scary word for many people. And it's understandable. Familiarity breeds comfort, and especially when things are going well we can't even imagine what we'd do if they suddenly weren't. However, one of the most amazing things about people is our ability to adapt and evolve. If life is good, tell yourself that it'll be okay if it's not. If life isn't so good, reassure yourself that it will be.

4. STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS

Let us tell you something: "success" is spelled many different ways. Instead of measuring your life against that of others - wishing you could have what they have, be where they are, and be more like them - recognize your own accomplishments and how truly remarkable you are as in individual. And most importantly, let the only person you need to impress be yourself.

5. LIVE IN THE PRESENT

We all do it, and more than we'd like to admit. Replaying past events in our heads, wishing we could have said or done something differently. Obsessing about the future, and everything that could happen. But here's the thing: life is happening right now. Challenge yourself to learn from your past mistakes rather than dwell, and apply those lessons to the present in order to carve your path to the future.

What are some ways you maintain a positive outlook? Tell us in the comments!

Thursday, December 13, 2018

Chevy Unveils the First Look at the 2020 Silverado HD

BAY CITY, Mich. -- If there's something to be said about Chevy, it's that they know the diversity of their customer base - particularly those who drive trucks. As such, the brand has revealed four new distinct trim levels for the all-new 2020 Silverado HD: Work Truck, Custom, LT, LTZ and course High Country.

This diverse selection follows the expanded range of choices offered on the new Silverado 1500, which features eight levels. Just like the 2019 model, each flavor of the 2020 model boasts distinctive design, technology, and features to meet the discerning tastes and requirements of HD drivers.

“Truck customers are very clear: They want the perfect truck for them and not a ‘one size fits most’ truck compromised for the masses,” says Mike Simcoe, vice president, Global Design, General Motors. “That insight shaped our strategy for the next-generation Silverado franchise, providing customers more differentiation between the Silverado 1500 and the Silverado HD as well as more personalization and differentiation between individual trim levels.”

For example, every 2020 Silverado HD model features design details unique to its trim such as either the Chevrolet stamped bar or the iconic bowtie logo with a combination of black, body color, chrome, or two-tone metallic as available on the High Country.

“We took into account every detail of what customers expect, and how they will use their truck,” says Simcoe. “The results are unique versions of the Silverado HD equally at home working on a construction site or pulling a camping trailer.”

The 2020 Chevrolet Silverado HD is expected to go on sale in mid-2019, so keep it tuned here to the Graff Bay City blog where we will release information about the trim levels, as well as updates regarding availability!

Monday, December 3, 2018

10 Smile-Inducing Songs to Help You Beat the Winter Blues

BAY CITY, Mich. -- Winter is certainly here in Michigan...but do you find that you feel pretty down about it? Does it seem to happen every year around this time? You're not alone. Seasonal depression, otherwise known as the "winter blues", affects an estimated 10 million people across the country according to Psychology Today. While many theories exist as to what causes it, one of the most widely accepted has to do with it getting dark much sooner, which increases melatonin production in the body and makes us feel extra drained. Another blames the significant lack of sunlight during this time, which can lead to feelings of sadness.

Whatever the cause, it definitely sucks. Don't worry, however, as there are several things you can do to lift your spirits - and one of the most popular methods is setting some positive vibes with great music! To help you knock those winter blues right out of your zone, we at Graff Bay City have curated this playlist of some of the most upbeat songs we could find. Enjoy!

1. DOG DAYS ARE OVER - Florence & the Machine That bright uke intro. Those pounding drums. Florence Welch's lighter-than-air vocals. This is the perfect recipe to perk up and get ready to face the day - and crush anything it throws in your way.

2. A-PUNK - Vampire Weekend This spunky song is sure to put some pep in your step, courtesy of Ezra Koenig and the boys.

3. YOU'RE MY BEST FRIEND - Queen This wonderful song written by bassist John Deacon for his wife is the very embodiment of good vibes.

4. ARE YOU GONNA BE MY GIRL - Jet Clap your hands and sing along as loud as you can! Winter can't stop you!

5. PENNY LANE - The Beatles The Fab Four have quite the repertoire of feel-good tunes, but this picturesque ode to a street in their beloved hometown of Liverpool takes the cake. You can't help but smile.

6. AIN'T TOO PROUD TO BEG - The Temptations
The Motown sound is famously upbeat, able to make the gloomiest winter days feel like sweet summertime. This huge hit from one of it's most successful groups is no different. We guarantee you'll be belting that intro with newfound enthusiasm before long.

7. HIGH HOPES - Panic! At the Disco Let Brendan Urie's fiery theatrics melt all that icy negativity around you.

8. D.A.N.C.E. - Justice Even casual listeners will recognize all the references to Michael Jackson in this funky homage to the late King of Pop. It's also sure to get you up and out of the dumps, doing the dance.

9. ALL THE SMALL THINGS - blink-182 This good vibes here are contagious. Be prepared to be singing this the whole day, and feeling amazing about it.

10. FLOAT ON - Modest Mouse Even if things end up a bit heavy, don't worry. You'll float on, alright?

We hope this playlist made you smile, and wish you nothing but positivity this winter. You've got this! What are some of your favorite songs to lift your mood? Tell us in the comments!

Hank Graff Chevy is located at 3636 Wilder Road, Bay City, MI 48706 and we are here to help our community grow to become an even better place to call home! For more information on Hank Graff Chevrolet, or for any questions call us at (989) 684-4411 or visit our website: www.GraffBayCity.com.

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Saturday, December 1, 2018

GM and Cruise Emerge as an Industry Leader in Autonomous Vehicle Tech

BAY CITY, Mich -- An emerging industry leader in autonomous vehicle technology, the GM Cruise has grown from 40 to 1,000 employees at its headquarters in San Francisco, as well caught the attention of Honda and SoftBank with investments reaching a valuation of $14.6 billion. As the next step, they're ready to commercialize self-driving vehicles, with fearless new CEO Dan Ammann at the helm.

Ammann spearheaded the 2016 acquisition of Cruise as the president of GM, and single-handedly oversaw the relationship between the companies. As someone deeply familiar with Cruise's business, technology and team, he was a perfect choice for CEO. "I am excited to dedicate 100% of my time and energy into helping the Cruise team realize our mission of deploying this technology at scale," said Ammann at a recent press conference.

According to GM CEO Mary Barra, the goal is to "transform mobility through the safe deployment of self-driving technology and move us closer to our vision for a future with zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion."

Part of this new venture includes an autonomous ride-hailing service that is set to launch in 2019. While an official statement indicating what city will be selected for the maiden voyage of this service has yet to be released, all signs as of late point to Cruise's hometown of San Francisco.

What do you think of the strides currently being made towards launching autonomous vehicle technology? Would you use the new GM Cruise self-driving, ride-hailing service? Why or why not? Comment and let us know. We love hearing from you.