Recycle your 2005 model year or older vehicle and receive up to $3,000 ^† in additional cash incentives

Thinking about upgrading? If you have a vehicle that’s a 2005 model year or older, in running condition, that’s been registered and insured for the last three months in your name ^† , then it’s time you took part in our Cash for Clunkers program.

Here’s how it works:

• Bring your old vehicle in to Westridge
• GM’s Cash for Clunkers program provides qualified customers who successfully donate their vehicle with an incentive of $500 to $3,000 depending on their choice of eligible GM vehicle
• The GM incentive can be used towards the purchase or finance of an eligible 2011 or 2012 GM vehicle
• You’ll be doing your part for the environment by upgrading to a cleaner more fuel efficient vehicle

It’s time to upgrade the vehicle in your driveway

The Cash for Clunkers program is only in effect from October 1, 2011 to January 3, 2012 . So get your incentive before it’s gone – visit Westridge Buick GMC today!

IF YOU LIKE THIS – and you LIKE FREE STUFF click on this link, and “like” our page today.  You could win a vehicle! 

To qualify for GMCL’s Cash For Clunkers incentive, you must: turn in a 2005 or older MY vehicle that is in running condition and has been registered and properly insured in your name, or under a small business name, for the last 3 months. GMCL will provide eligible consumers with an incentive to be used towards the purchase or lease of a new eligible 2011 or 2012 MY Buick/Chevrolet/GMC/Cadillac vehicle delivered between October 1, 2011 and January 3, 2012. Incentive amount ranges from $500 to $3,000 (tax inclusive), depending on model purchased; incentive may not be combined with certain other offers. By participating in GMCL’s Cash For Clunkers program your vehicle will not be eligible for any trade-in value. See your participating GM dealer for additional program details. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate program in whole or in part at any time without notice.

Enter GM’s Win the Ride, Live the Life contest for a chance to win your dream ride from Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac plus an exclusive VIP trip for two!* If you’re the lucky winner, you’ll choose from one of these four exciting getaways…

• The Toronto International Film Festival — Mingle with the stars! Includes flights, accommodation, dinner for two at Ki, tickets to four TIFF films and exclusive passes to two star-studded TIFF parties.
• The VIP Hockey Getaway — Be the ultimate fan! Includes flights, accommodation, tickets to aToronto hockey game, a merchandise package, dinner for two and a $200 gift certificate towards sports apparel.
• The Calgary Stampede — Saddle up for the greatest outdoor show on earth! Includes flights, accommodation, a two-day Stampede package, GMC Rangeland Derby and Grandstand Show tickets.
• A Taste of Montreal — Let your taste buds soar! Includes flights, accommodation, dinner for two at Bistro Nuvu and a culinary tour of oldMontreal complete with tastings.

If you are a Facebook user – click on this URL, “Like” Westridge, and follow the information! Enter now and you’ll also be automatically eligible to win our monthly prize – an iPod touch.^®

If you have any problems with the survey below, please call Westridge Buick GMC

General Motors of Canada Limited

Goodwrench “Hockey Experience” Contest: Win a trip for two to a hockey game!

(the “Contest”)  If you’re a FACEBOOK used click here!

Official Rules and Regulations

This contest is sponsored by General Motors of Canada Limited (“GMCL”). It runs from October 11, 2011 at 9:00a.m.MountainTime (“MT”) to December 5, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. MT (the “Contest Period”).

Contest Rules & Regulations

Eligibility

1. Residents ofWestern Canada, who have reached the age of 18 at the time of entry may enter this contest. (Employees of, immediate family members of, or those residing with an employee of General Motors of Canada Limited (“GMCL”), its agents and representatives, its parent, affiliates, subsidiaries and dealers, advertising and promotional agencies, sponsors, suppliers of prizes, materials or services related to this contest, including the independent judging organization are not eligible to enter this contest. “Immediate family” is defined as parents, siblings, children, spouse or partner.)

To Enter

2. No purchase necessary. To enter, visit Westridge Buick GMC or any GM Goodwrench location in British Columbia,Alberta,Saskatchewan,Manitoba, orYukon Territory and obtain a contest entry ballot. Fill in all required fields (full name, address, city/province of residence, phone number, email address, and date of birth) and place the completed ballot in the ballot box provided. All entries must be on official ballots; no photocopies or mechanical reproductions will be accepted. Limit of one (1) entry per person. If it is discovered that you have attempted to enter more than once, only your first entry will be included in the draw.

Check how Great Westridge is, click here!

Prizes

3. Secondary Prizes: There are six hundred and seventy-six (676) Secondary Prizes available to be won, each consisting of a hockey jersey (winner to select the jersey of their team of choice). Four (4) Secondary Prizes winners will be drawn from each of the one hundred and sixty-nine (169) participating GM Goodwrench locations. Each Secondary Prize has a retail value of $124.99 CAD. Limit of one (1) Secondary Prize per person. Secondary Prize winners are eligible for the Grand Prize draw.

Grand Prize: There are four (4) Grand Prizes available to be won, each consisting of a trip for two (2) to an NHL game of the winner’s choice in one of the following cities: Vancouver, BC, Edmonton, AB, Calgary, AB, Winnipeg, MB, Toronto, ON, Ottawa, ON, Montreal, QC. Prize includes round-trip economy airfare for two from the closest major airport to the winner’s home (the “Departure Point”) to the chosen city; two (2) nights of hotel accommodations (based on standard double-occupancy); two (2) tickets to an NHL game; two (2) jerseys of the winner’s choice; and ground transportation between the airport and hotel in the chosen city. NHL game selection dependant on availability. The approximate retail value of each Grand Prize is $3,750.00 CAD based on a flight fromWhitehorse,YT toMontreal,QC.

Each Grand Prize winner and his/her travelling companion are solely responsible for all costs not expressly described herein including, without limitation, applicable taxes, fuel/currency surcharges, ground transportation other than as described above, meals, beverages (including alcoholic beverages), room service, gratuities, entertainment, excursions, souvenirs, merchandise, local and long distance telephone calls, medical, travel and cancellation insurance together with any required travel documentation, and all personal expenses of any kind or nature, together with any applicable overnight layover. Winner and his/her guest are also solely responsible for all costs incurred to and from the Departure Point as the Grand Prize originates and terminates there. It is recommended that each Grand Prize winner and his/her guest obtain sufficient personal insurance prior to departure. In the event that a Grand Prize Winner lives within 250 km of the chosen city, no airfare will be provided and no ground transportation or further compensation will be awarded in lieu of airfare.

Each Grand Prize trip must be taken by April 7, 2012. All travel arrangements will be made through the Sponsor.

No change in travel arrangements can be made by a Grand Prize Winner once the booking has been confirmed. Grand Prizes may not be used towards any type of frequent flyer mileage, or other reward point accumulation program. GMCL will not be responsible if weather conditions, event cancellations or other factors beyond their reasonable control prevent a Grand Prize or any part of a Grand Prize from being fulfilled.

One (1) Grand Prize will be awarded to an eligible entrant drawn fromBritish ColumbiaandYukon Territory; two (2) Grand Prizes will be awarded to two eligible entrants drawn fromAlberta; and one (1) Grand Prize will be awarded to an eligible entrant drawn fromSaskatchewanandManitoba.

All taxes on prizes other than taxes specifically referred to in these rules are the responsibility of the winner.

1.  Ask for a CarProof Report!– One of these costs approx $49.95, BUT having a CarProof Report is incredibly important because no matter where the vehicle may have been in Canada or the U.S., this report includes critical accident data, import/export data, registration and branding info, including full U.S. history and lien information from every jurisdiction in Canada.  It is critical to know if a vehicle has an outstanding lien on it, so for your protection– ASK FOR IT!   (When you buy from an accredited dealership, they will actually provide one of these for you at no cost)

2.  Province Safety Inspection- (Out of Province Safety Inspection for those of us living by the border)–There are so many people who don’t ask for a safety inspection to be done on a vehicle before they make a purchase; but to me, this is the most critical thing to ensure is done before purchase.  Safety inspections for passenger cars and light-duty trucks require that the following items be checked: suspension components, steering, braking systems, tires and wheels, lighting and electrical systems, glazing (glass), mirrors, windshield washer, defroster, wipers, fuel systems, the speedometer, the odometer, the exhaust systems, horns and warning devices, the body, and chassis. For most vehicles a safety inspection will also include a Visual Anti-Tampering Check. The Visual Anti-Tampering Check is an examination of the vehicle to see if the required emissions components have been tampered with or removed.  If you want to ensure the vehicle is going to be good for you– ask the seller to have this done! (Most GM Optimum dealerships will have performed an inspection on their preowned inventory )

3.  Return Policy- The hard part about purchasing a vehicle privately is you will not be given an option for a return policy.  When you purchase from a GM Optimum dealerships however, you are given a 3 day Money Back Guarantee and a 30 Day Vehicle Exchange Program.  It is so nice (especially for peace of mind) that a vehicle can be returned no questions asked in the event you are not necessarily happy with your purchase.  I know of so many people who decide to purchase privately only to have something go wrong resulting in a major repair– who wants a repair bill after they just spent money on a “new” vehicle?!?!  Being offered a return policy builds credibility- and you can’t beat peace of mind!

4.  Maintenance Records– It is so important to view these records before making a purchase!  There are many people out there who prefer to do their own maintenance on their vehicles– if you run into this, ask for receipts for oil filters and oil they have purchased throughout the years.  Any good “professed mechanic” will have some type of record outlining what days the vehicle was serviced and what was done to it.  We have had vehicles come through our drive thru quick lube for it’s “first” oil change since a customer bought it, only to discover that the differentials or the transfer case oil plug is rusted on or that the oil is utterly and beyond needing to be changed.  If someone doesn’t have proof of work being done— RUN!

5.  Test Drives– Go on a test drive (take it both on the highway and in town) because 99% of the time, if something is mechanically wrong with the vehicle you will be able to tell.  It is important to go on the highway because there are mechanical problems that will affect a vehicle only on the highway.

Example:) A couple I know purchased a vehicle privately from a family in Edmonton back in July.  They thought they got a steal of a deal because it was a lower price than what the vehicle was going for anywhere else on the market.  They didn’t get a safety inspection done and didn’t take it on a test drive out of the city before purchasing— on their way back to Lloydminster, they noticed a vibration but assumed it was just the wheels needing to be balanced.  NOPE!– They took it in to get looked at and it turns out that vibration was a bent driveshaft!!!  You can use your imagination for the price on that bill!

6.  Warranty– My recommendation to anyone looking to buy a good preowned vehicle is to look for a lease back at a dealership.  Lease backs tend to be the best purchase because they won’t have a lot of kilometers on them, every lease back has an inspection done on it (it is mandatory when someone returns a lease that the vehicle is inspected), AND, the vehicle will still be on warranty!  To me, this is the best way you can ensure you are making a good investment and getting the most for your money…as somebody else already paid the depreciation on it!

So there you have it– these are the main things you should question, ask for, and do before making your next vehicle purchase.  I don’t think I am biased in saying the best deals come from a dealership– I know our staff works hard for our customers to ensure complete satisfaction with their new purchase and no matter what our customers know if they ever have a problem, we will ensure they are looked after!  We Know- We Care- We Perform!

Have you been dreaming of a brand new Buick? Then don’t miss our 0% lease and finance offers including 0% purchase financing^‡†, 0% lease rate^‡®, and 0% smart purchase financing^‡▼. Plus, get up to $5,500 in cash credits* on select models. Visit Westridge GMC today!

If you are a Facebook user – click here!

Offer available to retail customers in Canadabetween September 1, 2011 and October 31, 2011. Limited quantities of 2011 models available. Westridge GMC for Details

^†0% purchase financing offered on approved credit by Ally Credit for 48 months on new or demonstrator 2011 Buick Enclave. Rates from other lenders will vary. Down payment, trade and/or security deposit may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Example: $10,000 at 0% APR, the monthly payment is $208.33 for 48 months. Cost of borrowing is $0, total obligation is $10,000. Offer is unconditionally interest-free. Freight ($1,450), license, insurance, registration, PPSA, applicable taxes and fees not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Offers apply to qualified retail customers only. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details.
^•Based on a 48 month lease for 2011 Buick Regal CXL. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km, $0.20 per excess kilometre. OAC by GM Financial. Monthly payments may vary depending on down payment/trade. A down payment or trade of $0 and/or $0 security deposit is required. Total obligation is $18,944. Option to purchase at lease end is $11,404. Excess wear and tear and km charges not included. Other lease options available. See dealer for details.
^▼ 0.9% Smart Purchase™ financing available on approved credit by Ally Credit on eligible new or demonstrator 2011 Buick vehicles. Payments amortized over a term of up to 84 months. At months 35-37, 47-49 or 59-61 customers may: (i) exercise option to return vehicle for sale to Ally Credit if applicable conditions met, including payment of $199 disposal fee and any excess wear/km charges; (ii) continue at initial payment amount for remainder of amortization term; or (iii) trade-in vehicle to dealer. Example: $10,000 at 0% APR with 48 month option and payments amortized over 75 months, the monthly payment is $133.33. Cost of borrowing is $0, total obligation is $10,000. Down payment and/or trade may be required. Monthly payment and cost of borrowing will vary depending on amount borrowed and down payment/trade. Freight ($1,450), license, insurance, registration, PPSA, excess wear and kilometre charges, disposal fee, applicable taxes and dealer fees not included. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Applies to qualified retail customers in Canada only. Limited time offer which may not be combined with certain other offers. GMCL or Ally Credit may modify, extend or terminate offers in whole or in part at any time without notice. Conditions and limitations apply. See dealer for details.
*$5,500 manufacturer to dealer delivery credit available on 2011 MY Buick Lucerne Only (tax exclusive) for retail customers only. Other cash credits available on most models. See your GM dealer for details.

Recycle your 2005 model year or older vehicle and receive up to $3,000 ^† in additional cash incentives

Thinking about upgrading? If you have a vehicle that’s a 2005 model year or older, in running condition, that’s been registered and insured for the last three months in your name ^† , then it’s time you took part in our Cash for Clunkers program.

Here’s how it works:

• Bring your old vehicle in to Westridge
• GM’s Cash for Clunkers program provides qualified customers who successfully donate their vehicle with an incentive of $500 to $3,000 depending on their choice of eligible GM vehicle
• The GM incentive can be used towards the purchase or finance of an eligible 2011 or 2012 GM vehicle
• You’ll be doing your part for the environment by upgrading to a cleaner more fuel efficient vehicle

It’s time to upgrade the vehicle in your driveway

The Cash for Clunkers program is only in effect from October 1, 2011 to January 3, 2012 . So get your incentive before it’s gone – visit Westridge Buick GMC today!

IF YOU LIKE THIS – and you LIKE FREE STUFF click on this link, and “like” our page today.  You could win a vehicle! 

To qualify for GMCL’s Cash For Clunkers incentive, you must: turn in a 2005 or older MY vehicle that is in running condition and has been registered and properly insured in your name, or under a small business name, for the last 3 months. GMCL will provide eligible consumers with an incentive to be used towards the purchase or lease of a new eligible 2011 or 2012 MY Buick/Chevrolet/GMC/Cadillac vehicle delivered between October 1, 2011 and January 3, 2012. Incentive amount ranges from $500 to $3,000 (tax inclusive), depending on model purchased; incentive may not be combined with certain other offers. By participating in GMCL’s Cash For Clunkers program your vehicle will not be eligible for any trade-in value. See your participating GM dealer for additional program details. GMCL may modify, extend or terminate program in whole or in part at any time without notice.

Every 2011 Sierra HD rides on a segment exclusive all new high strength steel frame featuring fully boxed rails front to rear.  Compared with the 2010 sierra HD, the bending and beaming stiffness of the new steel frame is increased 92% and 20%, respectively.  Torsional stiffness is up by

500%. 

2. Upgraded Power train and body mounts

Larger engine and transmission mounts, compiled with a stiffer front frame section, help reduce vibration in the cab.  They use hydraulic body mounts for increased isolation from vibration on rough roads.

3. Prepped for Plowing

There’s a short-long arm/torsion bar independent front suspension that features lighter forged steel upper control arms and precision-machined cast iron lower control arms.  That gives you more front axle weight rating, so now a snow plow can be fitted on all 4×4 models

4. Four wheel drive

You can shift from 2hi to 4hi without leaving the comfort of your warm cab to manually lock up the front hubs

5. Locking rear differential

This is different from limited slip: When one rear tire start rotating approximately 100 rpm faster than the other, the differential locks up automatically, both wheels are then driven at the same speed to help kepp you from getting stuck

6. Asymmetrical leaf spring rear suspension

The asymmetrical design results in reduced axle hop under acceleration, more stability, improved traction control performance..

7. Stabilitrak

This system compares your steering input with the truck’s actual track, and intervenes automatically to return the truck to your intended line by incrementally apply in an individual brake.  This reduces one car fatal accidents by 63%.  This is standard.

8. DEF is more environmentally cautious

9. B20 Capable – can run on 80 % diesel, and 20% biodiesel

10. Improved lubrication – there have been refinements to the internal elements to enhance the oil film thickness and increase oil pressure at lower speeds.

11. Low-RPM performance – the peak torque is at 1600 RPM.

12. Quicker cold starts.  Even at -30, the diesel engine will start in 3 secs, thanks to the new advanced microprocessor controlled glowplugs

13. Upgraded Allison 1000 Transmission.  Enhanced to perform better

14. Trailer Sway control – system detects trailer sway, and it activates an individual truck/trailer brakes and  reduces engine power

15. Hill Start Assist – Keeps your truck and trailer from rolling backwards when you release the brake pedal – on grades of 5% or more!!

16. Transmission grade braking!!!

17. Built in 5^th wheel prep – the predrilled access holes in the rear frame section, it’s easier to install a 5^th wheel.

18. Quieter ride – from last year’s GM it is 30% quieter.

And speaking of that Westridge Buick GMC is a huge supporter of all the sports teams in town. In fact, for the last two year we have supported the Saskatchewan Mini Wheats Rugby Club.  Supporting these younger teams is crucial to support the “grown-up” teams, crucial to become the feeder teams into the Reapers (adults) club.  With out the younger generation learning the sport of Rugby the sport will die. 

So our local sports clubs, like the Reapers, really do benefit from all the local businesses, such as Westridge Buick GMC, and depend on such to sponsor and pay for field times, costs of jerseys, and what not.  Without the support, our community would fall apart in the expenses and make sport a rich man’s leisure activity to play.  And I heard all the parents rejoice in the fact that the cost for their child to join the Mini Reapers (no sorry, the Mini Saskatchewan Mini Wheats Rugby) this year was only $50!  Incredible!!  What does hockey cost again?

And similiarily, two nights ago just as Canada was playing Tonga in the world cup, thea local newspaper on the meridian printed out the most hilarious “un-cupped” mistake ever recorded in Lloydminster history.  A Reaper’s player, orginally from England, omitted his undershorts to play, and was caught with the camera with a couple of non-rugby-balls flying out of you-know-what!   The whole county know, I’m sure of that.  And I know everyone knows exactly who pointed out the fantastic, “No Really?  That must be a rip in his shorts!  No, it can’t be it’s his junk!

 I found out here at work.  A non-rugby player associate of mine came up to me and asked me if rugby players wear jocks, cans over their you-know-what.   I told her no, it’s not safe.  But I thought, what a weird question.   It was then she said come with me; off she stormed to her office, grabbed the Meridian Booster, and asked me, “Then what’s this?” with a mischevious smirk on her face.  She pointed, I looked.  GASP!  Five or six of us surrounded the paper, and after a long discussion trying to digress what the heck the picture really was, we all chided in a sing-song, ”someone’s gonna get sued, someone’s gonna get sued!”  If that was my son’s testicles hanging outside his shorts and the editor did not see it and the photographer forgot to photoshop it, then I would find a really good lawyer and find out really what my son’s nuts were worth!  Ha!  

I hope the poor English man doesn’t get sent back to his country!  We need him here to work and to coach those young mini-reapers!!  We need him to play!

Well, I hope the Reapers will really REALLY benefit from the local paper on the meridian’s ”business” this year.  

What is that saying again? Any publicity is good publicity?

Although based on the recently released Chevrolet Cruze, the Buick Verano has little in common with its more proletarian sibling. The Verano will offer a more luxurious interior, more comfort and convenience features, and more powerful standard and optional engines. It will also be instantly recognizable as a Buick.
The Verano carries the modern Buick design cues introduced on the Enclave and interpreted for the LaCrosse and Regal. They include a bold, detailed black chrome waterfall grille, prominent blue translucent projector beam headlamps, “portholes” in the fenders, chrome accents and premium wheels. 17-inch multi-spoke forged alloy sterling silver-finish wheels are standard while two premium 18-inch wheel designs will be available.

Inside are high quality soft-touch materials, available leather seating, wood and metallic trim and warm ambient lighting inspired by the LaCrosse. Neutral and medium titanium colours are offered on standard interiors with leatherette/fabric seating surfaces, while ebony, cashmere and a unique Choccachino colour are offered on the available leather-trimmed interiors. The instrument cluster blends with an integrated centre stack that houses the infotainment display, climate controls and radio controls. Tight panel gaps are expected to be best in class.

Standard features include push-button engine-start, dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, electronic parking brake, power windows with express up and down in the front and express down in the rear, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. A remote starter for temperatures below seven degrees Celsius will activate the heated steering wheel and heated seats.

Much effort has gone into reducing noise and vibration in the Verano. Noise reducing or noise cancelling technologies include nylon baffles in various hollow portions of the body structure that are filled with sound-deadening foam, a headliner comprised of five layers of thermal fibre acoustic material, triple-sealed doors with fiberglass “blankets” that act as a barrier to water, airflow and noise, thick laminated windshield and side glass, intake and exhaust systems that are tuned for quiet performance, and 17-inch wheels and tires engineered to enhance quietness and reduce road noise.

The standard Verano engine will be a direct injected 2.4-litre Ecotec four-cylinder with dual overhead camshafts and variable valve timing delivering an estimated 177 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. of torque. Combined with an efficient six-speed automatic transmission and electric power steering, GM expects the Verano will achieve 7.5 L/100 km on the highway. A 2.0-litre turbocharged engine will be offered in the future.

Stopping power will be handled by a four-wheel disc brake system with standard anti-lock and electronic brake force distribution, as well as StabiliTrak electronic stability control with traction control.
Other safety features include 10 standard air bags (frontal, head curtain side air bags, front and outboard rear-seat side-impact air bags and new knee air bags), collapsible pedal system and OnStar with automatic crash response.

And with OnStar, owners can download an OnStar app for their smart phone that, with a few taps, will allow them to check tire pressure, fuel tank level and range, remaining oil life and odometer reading!

Then, Buick made it’s appearance at the Canadian International Auto Show on February 17. 

The Pricing is phenomenal too! 

A starting price of $23,470 for the 2012 Buick Verano luxury sedan has been announced by General Motors. The base model 2012 Verano has been priced to undercut similar offerings from countries such as Japan. One example can be seen with the Acura TSX which starts out at around $30,495 and the Lexus IS 250 about $34,170, or event the BMW Passat!

For more information, click on this link and call Westridge Buick today!

Luckily, the Driver’s Educations classes will beging Sept 12, 2011.  The best thing about learning at a young age is that you get a personal teacher, who is not mom or dad, brother or sister.  You get a personal instructor who has brakes on their side to stop an individual if they are not seeing their blind spot correctly. 

Remember, texting and talking on your cell phone while driving to Wainwright, Camrose, Edmonton, or anywhere in Alberta is now a driving offense.  And there are two fines, depending on the severity of one’s “distractedness”. 

1.  $172 and no demerits.  Basically given if an individual is caught being distracted but is not being dangerous to others.

2. $402 and 6 demerit points! Drivers who exhibit what is deemed to be more serious or risky behaviour could be charged with driving carelessly under the Traffic Safety Act. Drivers who commit another traffic violation while driving distracted could receive two tickets – one for distracted driving and one for the traffic violation.

What activities are not allowed while driving?

• talking on a hand-held cellphone
• texting and/or e-mailing
• using electronic devices like laptop computers, video games, cameras, video entertainment displays and programming portable audio players (e.g., mp3 players)
• manually entering information on GPS units
• reading printed material like a book or a magazine
• writing, printing or sketching
• personal grooming like combing your hair, applying makeup or brushing your teeth
• using a citizen’s band (CB) or two-way radio (some exemptions apply)

He strided to the Westridge Chili Cook off on Saturday, August 20, 2011, thinking he was later than anybody else.  Almost out of breath because he was so excited, he rattled to me that he is an outrider and he was doing his chores in the morning, got wet from washing some of his horses down, and was almost embarrassed that he could possibly be late for this prestigious event.  He politely inquired to me whether he was late or not!  

Funny enough though, he had sort of a twang to his speech.  He pronounced his words funnier and more proper than any cowboy I had ever spoken to, including the retired, Garett Wyness.  I asked him where he was from, and Scott White was from Provost, Wainwright area, and learned how to ride from his mother.  But as it turned out, when I told him he sounds quite different than anybody around the Lloydminster area, he explained to me that he lives in Australia during the winter months, way down in Moree, NSW, working on a massive farm down under.   And, to me as I have realized, adventure has become his title of work.  Where ever he goes, he goes to experience and find the extreme of any place, whether it’s pushing a beat-up old used ford up the mountain in Tasmania, or finding out that australians seem to have a larger sized beer at the World Tennis Tournament and then testing how much VB can a Canadian Cowboy hold.  Scott White’s mission in life:  he will find the utmost limits to any aspect of life. 

Outriding was no exception either.  Even though Mr. Devin Mitsuing of Loon Lake, Saskatchewan, will be heading down to Calgary with the red, GMC-1-tonne-dually-diesel,  Scott White rode fast and rode hard.   The final race on Sunday, was hot, and was an exciting, four-wagons-lined-side-by-side, racing-neck-to-neck for the finish line.

Is this really a secret society though?

 Westrdige Buick GMC will be proud to host the 20th CPCA Final Championship ins 2012.  It’s going to be a HUGE deal!

The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band is an American country-folk-rock band that has existed since 1966.  So folks, this group has existed for 45 years!!!  Of course, the has seen many changes over the years, and once upon a time,  during a period from 1976 to 1981, the band performed and recorded as The Dirt Band. Constant members since the early times are singer-guitarist Jeff Hanna and drummer Jimmie Fadden. Multi-instrumentalist John McEuen was with the band from 1966 to 1986 and returned during 2001. Keyboardist Bob Carpenter joined the band in 1977.

Luckily, these artists have a mission to keep in mind.  They try not to sell out and just play something that will hit the media masses.   The selection of their tunes is rooted in their profound mandate to stay true to music and stick to the same thing.  ”We don’t mean to frustrate people, but it has always been a big deal about what to call us. The irony is that over the years, we’ve pretty much done the same thing — it’s the genres and formats that have redefined themselves.”  

For this reason, they are a perfect Saturday night wind-up for Lloydminster’s own CPCA final championships.  On August 20th, 2011, at the Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band will be performing to Canada’s best mid-west community.  The real west, as we Lloydminster, North Battleford, Unity, Cold Lake, Wainwright folks like to call it.  The surrounding farming communities, rich with culture and cowboy hats, will two-step to the rhythm of “Gone fishin in the Dark”. 

The opening act, Hey Romeo, will be opening for the Nitty Gritty Dirt band.  They have received, this year at the Canadian Country Music Awards, a total of six nominations!  There sound, so they claim is ” a sound, where classic country phrasing and sentiments like honky-tonk heartaches, dovetail beautifully with the slick steps and bounce of upbeat urban adventures.” Stacie Roper, Rob Shapiro, and Darren Gusnowsky are the collective heartbeat of Hey Romeo and over the past eight years, this trio of accomplished musicians have put in the required hard work, to make the group one of the “real” rising star acts in Canadian country music.

You can purchase your tickets at the Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds.  You must be 19 years of age to purchase a ticket.  No Refunds.  ID required at the door, no matter if you’re 30 or not!  Doors open at 8:30!  Concert starts at 9:00.  Tickets are 35$ till August 19, then 40$ on August 20.

Here’s the Events:

Brand New Exhibition Grill will be OPEN!  They will be serving breakfast and lunch!

WED, THURS , SAT = 7:30 am – 2:30 pm

FRI = 10:00 am – 2:30 pm

CABARET

SAT, August 20, NITTY GRITTY DIRT BAND, with Hey Romeo.

SASKATCHEWAN BUILDING

Doors OPEN 8:30

Must be 19 years old to attend!!

TICKETS $35 to August 19, or after is $45…

Available at Lammle’s Western Wear, Paradise Hill Farm Supply, Exhibition Office or online at www.lloydchuckwagons.com 

COWGIRL CHIC FASHION LUNCHEON

Friday, August 19

12:00 pm NOON

Wild Rose Pavilion, Exhibition Grounds

$20 per person, Corporate table of 8 $140

Tickets available at Lloyd Ex Office 306 825 5571, Fabric Land

email: corinne@lloydexh.com

Team Roping

Saturday, Aug 20, 2011

Entries taken from 11 am – Noon.

Roping begins at 12:30

Chili Cook OFF

Saturday, Aug 20, 2011

Noon to 2 pm

Westridge Buick GMC, Highway 17 South, Lloydminster

Team Registration taken till Aug 16th

$5 per “Sampler bowl” or “Meal Bowl”

PANCAKE BREAKFAST

#1 – FRIDAY, Aug 19, 2011 

Pink Friday Pancake Breakfast

7am – 10 am

Wild Rose Pavilion, Exhibition Grounds

#2 – SUNDAY, Aug 21, 2011

8am – 10 am

Sales Pavilion, Exhibition Grounds

Square Dancing

Saturday, August 20, 2011

2pm

Main Concourse/Entrance, Exhibition Grounds

BEER GARDENS

Wednesday- Sunday, Aug 17 – 21

Music : CODIE PREVOST (WED & THURS)

DEANNA (FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY)

RACING

Wednesday, Thursday( Family Fun day, Children U12 are free), Friday, Saturday

Gates Open: 5:00 pm

Pre Show: 6:00 pm

Racing: 6:30 pm

(Thursday: special performance by Ernestine Hatpin & The Prairiedogs 5:30, Hot Doggers show, Bouncy Castle, and Border city petting zoo).

Finals on SUNDAY

Gates open: 12:30 pm

Pre Show: 1:30 pm

Racing: 2:00 pm

So choose Westridge Buick GMC everytime when you need an oil change done.  

And why choose us? 

Because you are NEXT!  That’s our slogan, yes, but we mean it!  When we say we operate on a first come, first served basis, you get a great convenience attaced with our expertise on your truck.  We have certified and smart GM-trained technicians who love vehicles, and their passion is reflected in our when we give back you your keys!

And this reminded me, this morning, as I sat down to share the utter depths of my electric thoughts with our Westridge Power Team fans, it reminded me of our own power of our own force in this capitalistic world.  Our choices of where we spend our money shakes our surroundings, and gives rise to who stays and who goes.  And it is a simple principle – where there’s a need, it’s called a demand in this western-consumer world.  And demand is determined to where we spend our money and where we don’t. 

For example – Oil Changes!  When the drive-through quick lube service started to be offered here in Lloydminster, the automobile repair shops would have seen a decline in customer volume.  Why?  Because the oil change consumer of Lloydminster must have liked the convenience and quality given by a fast drive-through approach.  The consumer didn’t have to leave the comfort of their vehicle, didn’t have to hand over to the keys to someone they might have not trusted, and therefore, didn’t have to involve themselves in a bump or two placed on the vehicle that wasn’t there before!

So, as a result, the entrepreneurial mind would have recognized the demand and invested in to quick lube services offered here in Lloydminster.

Is the quality the same though?  The standards here at Westridge Buick GMC compared to someone at Great Canadian Oil Change or another quick lube service is that we hire our oil change technicians based on the fact that they have experience already.  Also, a GM dealership does not stop there.  Education is a GM principle, and all our technicians, if they so wish, can sign a contract to continue to become a professional journeyman automobile mechanic.  Westridge Buick GMC pays to send our oil change technicians to school.

So does a regular quick lube bay believe in that?  General Motors invests in its community – especially its employees.  Especially its employees.

Isn't the change just jaw-dropping?

Take the Regal for example.  It’s a midsized car that was introduced from GM the 1970′s and it continued to be remolded to fit its consumers. 

Buick REGAL?Another Buick Regal?

And now the sedan comes out!

And then, everything stopped in 2004.  Thank GOODNESS!  And, also, we have to thank the recession, back in 2008.  Buick had to make a lot of changes, and a lot of course changing investments – including removing Tiger Woods as the ”face of Buick”.  There was a lot of speculation around the Buick brand – some people hope that it would just go away and not come back.  

But, the Lacrosse came out in 2010.. and now… the Buick Regal is turning heads over in Lloydminster.  Not only is it competing with the sleek look normally associated with the imported brands such as Hyundai, Honda, Lexus, Audi, even BMW, it has gone “recoco” with their engines.

Their 2.4L DOHC V4 has 182 HP with 172 lb-ft torque!!!  It goes from 0 – 60 kms/hour in 8.8 s!!!

Then the 2.0 DOHC turbocharged V4 has 220 HP and 258 lb-ft torque!  Excuse me, is this really possible?

And now, it’s even better on fuel.  For 2012, Buick Regal has announced the used of E-assist.  It uses power stored in the battery for electrical boost in various driving scenarios, optimizing engine and transmission operation. A 115-volt lithium-ion battery and 15-kW induction motor-generator help increase fuel economy by providing up to 11 kW (15 hp) of electric power assistance during acceleration. The system also features automatic engine shut-off when the vehicle is stopped, plus aggressive fuel cut-off during deceleration down to zero vehicle speed, which is enabled by the torque smoothing provided by the induction motor-generator unit. Moreover, the Regal eAssist will have an intelligent charge/discharge of the high-voltage battery and regenerative braking to charge the battery.

Is that all to scientific?  To many words? 

My words of advice to the folks in and around – DON’T  BE AFRAID of NEW TECHNOLOGY!  It works like a charm and the battery is warrated for 10 years!!!

Buick Regal is coming out with the best technology yet

I think the reason why she liked it best was because it goes on, goes off, and leaves no streaks.  Too bad the kids could do that – play on, play off, and leave no streaks!  Ha, that’s funny though, everyone know that children can never do that!  Aha! I have found the reason to why!  GM invented AC Delco Window Cleaner to keep the average mother from going insane.

You can find this stuff at any dealership – I, obviously, get mine from Westridge Buick GMC, in their friendly Parts department.  I like getting it from there because their parts personel really know their parts, ahem, automobile parts, and have the dryest sense of humour.  They have fun and I appreciate that in a business. 

Just drive south of Lloydminster – and you’ll find Westridge Buick GMC – walk right in, smile at the receptionist, grab a hot cocoa or coffee, and pick up the best window cleaner in the world.

The AC Delco window cleaner I use for just about everything too – not just limited to the windows and mirrors of a car.

Most people, who know Lloydminster, know that this town needs their trucks to be on the job.  And they need sufficient warning to possible future upsets in the truck- no one wants to be stuck out at their rig because their powersteering hose in their truck went. 

So choose Westridge Buick GMC everytime when you need an oil change done.  

And why choose us? 

Because you are NEXT!  That’s our slogan, yes, but we mean it!  When we say we operate on a first come, first served basis, you get a great convenience attaced with our expertise on your truck.  We have certified and smart GM-trained technicians who love vehicles, and their passion is reflected in our when we give back you your keys!

This is what our average oil change includes

• Checking fluid levels (brake, power steering, transmission, differential (RWD, AWD, or 4×4) and transfer case (4×4 or AWD) and top up fluids as needed
• Check and set tire pressure
• Replace with GM oil  filter
• Lube chassis/suspension/steering components
• Drain the oil and replace it with up to 5 liters of General Motors oil
• 30 point inspection including the following safety items: tires, windshield wipers, drive belt(s), battery (cables and clamps), hoses, lights and indicators and air filter

For some reason, no one took him serious.  Maybe it was because he was young, or maybe what he was looking for was a tall order.  Afterall, finding a great muscle car, with the specifics laid out in such great detail, can prove to be a lot of work for a salesperson in general.

If you are a reader to this, and this was happening to you, what would you do?  Would you give up?  Would you change your make?  Would you settle for something that you didn’t really look for initially?

Could you wait?

In a formidable attempt, the sales team at Westridge Buick GMC, also known as the Power Team, found this young gentleman the sports car of his dreams!  Pulling from all the resources they could, they expanded their search countrywide across Canada, including phoning Quebec and speaking in French, and across the USA, including Utah, Alabama , North Dakota.  And through all these phone calls, they singled out an affordable yet daringly good looking 2008 Ford Mustang for their eager client!

Way to Go Westridge for being a World-Class Dealership!

A “provincial safety” is different from a “dealer inspection”, because it is a government inspection that must see that the vehicle meets road-worthy requirments.

In addition, we must do a Saskatchewan safety and an Alberta Safety!!  A Saskatchewan vechile safety inspection differs from Albertan vehicle safety inspection in that it must have a wheel-alignment completed as well. 

Then check out the fuel gauge: notice every time Westridge has all of our used vehicles filled with gas once it has been through our GM Goodwrench Service Department!

And oil-change!

And super-duper cleaning done by our exceptionally trained vehicle cleaning professionals!

Example: 2010 Honda Accord

Alberta and Saskatchewan used car example

Only 25,000 kms, but we have insured that it is like a brand new one by doing all of the above.

For example, a very happy Westridge client of ours, whose name we will leave un-disclosed, was looking at a North Battleford used truck;

                   specifically a used GMC Denali truck, 2009, with 37,000 kms. 

It was a nice pre-owned truck!  But then she discovered what she could buy a new 2011 Denali truck for, and guess what happened next!  She made the decision to go into a newer truck without stretching her budget. 

So whether you are in Vermilion, Wainwright, Unity, or Saskatoon, and you are thinking of purchasing a used vehicle, find out what it really costs from Westridge Buick GMC for you to have a new vehicle!  You will soon find out what the greatest day in your life taste like.

 What does that mean for ourWestridge Buick GMC Clients? What does that mean for dealerships in Lloydminster?

 Firstly, ask ourselves, as clients, is what’s going to happen in two or three years from now.  Not only is technology going to reinvent itself in the years to come, but our lives will change. 

 Maybe one of us will get married, maybe another might have another baby.  If you are a student just heading to university, a graduate starting a new career, or even a new parent knowing the certainty of change, leasing a vehicle is the best strategy to maximize the most for your dollar earned. 

 Leasing gives you options, NOT obligations.

 Imagine, no negative equity at the end of the term.  Keep your used car, used truck, used suv, or walk away and continue to have full factory warranty through another vehicle lease!