Quarantine Spurts New Gardening Growth
Many people all over the world are using mandatory or voluntary quarantine for Covid-19 to pick up some new skills or try new hobbies. Seeing as all this happened at the beginning of spring, many people focused in on their gardens…or started gardening for the first time. During these tight financial times, many first-time gardeners are trying their green thumb at growing their own fruits and vegetables.
“We have been so busy the last couple months,” said Tammi Wells of Skagit Valley Gardens in Mount Vernon. “Financially, these have been record-breaking months for us. But, really, the biggest difference is how happy people are to be here. How happy they are to have some kind of outlet, bring some color and hope into their lives by working on their old gardens or starting new ones. More than ever, people want something to focus on, some kind of beauty and escape.”
There are many resources available to help you on your garden-to-kitchen venture, but here are some quick and easy tips to help you get started:
- Plant what you and your family will actually eat. It’s a thrill to see an eggplant grow from a little start, but it’s less thrilling to see it rot on the soil because no one in your home likes them.
- Start small. We all start with big dreams, but start with a few basic things to get the hang of it first.
- Companion planting is a great way to get the best from your food, but it can be a bit overwhelming. In general, lettuce and spinach grow great next to most other foods, so try planting those greens in between your other plants.
- Make sure you get some joy out of your garden. Feel free to throw some flower seeds of your favorite flower in with your veggies!
- Get creative with the foods you eat. Did you know you can eat pansies and nasturtiums? In fact, nasturtiums (an annual flowering vine) adds a great peppery flavor and color to salads!
“Not everyone has access to a plot for a garden, so many people are building raised beds, container gardening, or even just splurging on indoor plants to bring some outside to their inside,” said Wells. “We have sold more indoor plants this year than ever before because people know that nature inside the walls of your home can help with relaxation and just feeling better about stuff.”
Many local gardening centers and nurseries are open in the Puget Sound area, so you can ask your local expert for more tips or do some online research.
Now more than ever, cleanliness is of the utmost importance. And top of mind thoughts naturally lead us all to think about how I might sanitize my car. That’s why Chevrolet is committed to using enhanced vehicle cleaning measures, with CDC-approved cleansers before delivering your vehicle after purchase or service – including cleaning your instrument panel, hard and plastic surfaces, seats and carpet. Nothing can be 100%, but we do follow protocols for the use of sanitzer. Ask us for details 206.243.5800. Click to schedule service.
Ask us about the Chevy Cares Program
In these uncertain times, we’re doing our best to be there, any way we can. From answering questions about your vehicle to helping you shop for a new Car, Truck or SUV from home, see all the ways we’re here to help. Because at a time like this, your vehicle should be the least of your worries.
And speaking of being a dependable vehicle, Chevrolet has consistently ranked among the JD Power Quality Award winners. Read more about them here. The Chevy Equinox, Malibu, Silverado and Tahoe models all ranked highest in their respective segments in initial quality in 2019!
The Equinox SUV has also been an IIHS “Top Safety Pick” (LINK) – so it’s not only how do I sanitize my car that matters in the safety category. Chevrolet has put alot of thought into its designs and quality control. Read more about the Equinox here.
Research Silverado here. Malibu here. And Tahoe here. Thank you!
As part of the Chevy Clean Program, we follow recommended protocols regarding the cleaning of facilities and vehicles. Neither the Chevy Clean Program nor a dealer’s enrollment in the Program should be deemed to state or imply that any dealer’s cleaning activities can eliminate or prevent transmission of any virus, illness or disease.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Suits Up for Duty
All-new Police Pursuit Vehicles and Special Service Vehicles debut late this year
The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe continues its tradition of providing law enforcement with capable and dependable vehicles. The next-generation Tahoe is available in two law enforcement packages: the Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicle is designed for high speeds and dynamic capability with the added comfort needed from an everyday patrol vehicle; the Special Service Vehicle is more focused on off-road and towing needs where high-speed operations are not required.
“Tahoe is the most aspirational vehicle in the law enforcement industry,” said Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, GM Fleet. “By listening to the needs of officers from around the country, we have built the best Tahoe ever.”
Pursuit-rated enhancements
Both the PPV and SSV models are powered by the Tahoe’s 5.3L V-8 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. To meet the most demanding needs of law enforcement, the PPV engine borrows high-performance rocker covers from the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 LT4 engine. These rocker covers improve crankcase ventilation, allowing the 2021 Tahoe to handle high lateral conditions better than its predecessor. Engine oil and transmission fluid are cooled by dedicated, heavy-duty cooling systems specific for law enforcement applications.
To handle the dynamic load of police pursuits, Chevrolet worked with Bridgestone to develop a pursuit-rated all-season tire. The Firestone Firehawk Pursuit tires, mounted to 20-inch steel wheels, were tested by Chevrolet at multiple race tracks and play a large role in the PPV’s improved stopping distance, which has been reduced by 11 feet from 62 to 0 mph on dry surfaces compared to the 2020 model.
Additional performance enhancements of the PPV include:
- Specific suspension tuning with unique monotube dampers, coil springs and stabilizer bars for less body roll and more driver confidence when executing police-type maneuvers.
- Lower ride height compared to civilian Tahoes for better high-speed aerodynamics and improved vehicle stability.
- Heavy-duty braking system with large front Brembo six-piston aluminum monoblock calipers on 16-inch rotors.
- Heavy-duty, clutch-type limited slip rear differential.
- Speedometer certified at 140 mph.
New model brings major benefits
Both PPV and SSV packages benefit from the SUV’s completely new design, which offers class-leading interior space. The new Tahoe police-specific front seats provide additional hip room, allowing officers’ utility belts to fit more comfortably. 2021 Tahoe police vehicles offer 70.3 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second-row seat, which is 18.3 cubic feet more than the next largest pursuit-rated SUV competitor. Rear door openings are now 13 percent (3.5 inches) wider than the previous generation to ease the loading of handcuffed passengers.
The all-new independent rear suspension and longer wheelbase dramatically improve handling and ride smoothness for both civilian and law enforcement applications, particularly on uneven pavement and unpaved surfaces. The exterior design is based on the new Tahoe Z71 trim, which features a rugged front grille, higher approach angle and front skidplate.
Technology is more important than ever as officers can get work done while parked using an available 4G LTE Wi-Fi® Hotspot. Standard HD Rear Vision Camera* and Rear Park Assist* can help officers prevent collisions when backing up, while standard Hitch Guidance* helps officers attach a trailer. Unlike pursuit-rated SUV competitors, Tahoe offers an available Rear Camera Mirror* to provide a wide, less obstructed view behind the vehicle compared to a traditional rearview mirror. It is especially helpful with police cabin obstructions like cargo partitions, passengers and K9 kennels common in police vehicles. New to 2021 Tahoe police vehicles is standard keyless entry and push-to-start ignition, which allow police officers to leave their keys on their belts for simpler and quicker use.
Officers are tasked with constantly scanning their surroundings and are often in high-stress situations behind the wheel. An available suite of active safety features is designed to help them stay in control and avoid collisions, including Forward Collision Alert*, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning*, Automatic Emergency Braking*, Front Pedestrian Braking* and Following Distance Indicator*.
Tahoe’s police vehicle electrical architecture has been greatly improved to reduce time and complexity of upfitting. A new standard blunt-cut wire harness has 31 wire circuits to the cockpit, 56 wire circuits to the cargo area and 25 shared circuits to connect aftermarket equipment without removing major panels or components. Upfitters can repurpose the steering wheel-mounted buttons using the blunt-cut wires to perform tasks like initiating a Code 3 with lights and sirens or keying a department radio microphone. The electrical system is powered by an upgraded dual battery system with emergency equipment isolation to meet the unique needs of police. To avoid excessive engine idling, a 760-amp auxiliary battery will allow video systems, department radios, mobile data terminals, emergency lighting and more to operate without running the engine. A new high-output alternator is 47 percent more powerful than the 2020 model to support the continuous running of electrical equipment.
The powerful 5.3L V-8 engine features Dynamic Fuel Management. DFM enables the engine to operate in up to 18 different cylinder patterns – with as few as two cylinders – to optimize power delivery and efficiency. The DFM controller calculates 80 times per second how many cylinders are required to meet the driver’s requested torque.
While the Tahoe PPV is offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations, the SSV is exclusively 4WD. For added off-road capability, 4WD models offer a Terrain Mode, which provides performance similar to 4WD Low without the need of a two-speed transfer case. Special Service Vehicles also offer an available Max Trailering Package with a max-tow rating of 8,200 pounds. This package includes an active, two-speed electronic Autotrac transfer case with push-button controls and an integrated trailer brake controller.
A legacy of service
Tahoes have been serving law enforcement since 1997 when the first Pursuit-Rated Package was introduced. Over the years, Chevrolet has continued to listen to officers and add new features and options with their needs in mind. General Motors organized an official Law Enforcement Product Council 20 years ago to learn directly from officers how they can effectively perform their duties behind the wheel. The council is comprised of ranking law enforcement officers and civilian fleet managers, who have been instrumental in Chevrolet’s police-vehicle programs over the years.
The 2021 Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicle and the Special Service Vehicle will be assembled at General Motors’ Arlington Assembly in Texas with globally-sourced parts in late 2020 with availability beginning early 2021.
*Safety or driver assistance features are no substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner. The driver should remain attentive to traffic, surroundings and road conditions at all times. Visibility, weather, and road conditions may affect feature performance. Read the vehicle’s owner’s manual for more important feature limitations and information.
Making a Difference in Quarantine
Since the Stay at Home order given a few weeks ago, many of us are having to find ways to spend our time. Some of us, are using that time to make a positive difference in our communities. Many people are making homemade masks for their friends and family; some are selling masks and donating the proceeds to various causes.
Gail has taken a different approach. Usually a busy realtor, she dusted off her sewing machine for her Sew Something Good venture. She has been making and selling aprons, all proceeds going to charities helping those affected by Covid-19. To date, she has donated more than $2000 with just the support of friends and family.
While there are many celebrities using their fame for good causes, one of our favorites is John Krazinki’s new online “show” called Some Good News where he shares GOOD news from around the globe and his fans. With all the negative and depressing news, we love his optimism and a window to see some of the good happening all around us. https://www.facebook.com/JohnKrasinski/
Another fruit that has blossomed from the bitter quarantine tree is Rachel Bell’s Cooking in Quarantine campaign on Instagram. We are all doing a lot more cooking at home…and needing to do a lot more cooking at home…so it’s great to see what people are creating in their kitchens. Who doesn’t need more meal ideas during this time?
Local radio stations are also trying to make a difference with campaigns like Letters For Hope where the public can write letters to elderly neighbors in lock down in retirement homes, most unable to even leave their rooms. These letters can be addressed (or emailed) to radio stations and the station will make sure they get where they are needed.
These are just a few of the ways individuals and communities are showing we are all in this together! What are some of the ways you’ve seen your friends and neighbors show up?
Burien Chevrolet’s Lifetime Warranty
Did you know that Burien Chevrolet offers a Lifetime Warranty on any new Chevrolet you buy from us? Let us explain!
The lifetime warranty is one of things that really sets us apart from the competition:
Get all the Frequently Asked Questions and answers here.
What We’re Doing Right Now…
- Service & Parts Departments are OPEN 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday and Saturday 9am – 2pm (closed Sunday). As a Chevrolet dealer in the Seattle area, we are maintaining a heightened awareness of Covid-19 mitigation response. Make your appointment as usual by calling us at 206.243.5800 or online, the easy way – click here! We offer low contact service! Our Service Technicians are here for you to wipe, swipe and sanitize your vehicle before and after service.
- Concierge Service: we’ll pick up your vehicle, service it and return it to your home or office. Please arrange for our Concierge by phoning 206.243.5800. Geographic restrictions apply (complimentary within 10-miles).
- Sales…
- Virtual Vehicle Appointments – Schedule a virtual meeting and get a video tour of the vehicle you’re looking at on our Website. And then, visit our Shop Click Drive Store, where you can get excellent pricing, calculate payments & downpayments, get a value on your trade in and more!
- Complimentary test drive at home – Try a no-commitment, no-strings test drive at home. Car will be dropped off (within 10 miles of the dealership) so you can safely test drive on your own.
- Dealership Appointments – If you fall into a specific consumer category, per the Governor’s Order, we are practicing social distancing and setting a specific time for you to visit Burien Chevrolet to enjoy a solo test drive and personal buying experience. Contact us for a list of the Governor’s Consumer Categories.
- No Contact Purchase – Pay or finance a vehicle remotely—either by phone or email. You’ll just have to sign a few quick docs in a private room at the dealership. Done in a jiffy, lickety-split! (Governor’s Order applies)
- No-Charge Home Drop-off – Ready to buy? We’ll drop your new car off at your home, no charge! (Geographic 10-mile limits & Governor’s Order apply)
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General 10-mile complimentary pickup and delivery area for auto service. Please ask your advisor for details. 206.243.5800
Burien Chevrolet service, repair, and tire departments are open to keep you going this Spring. While many of us may not be traveling a lot right now, it could be the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape for when quarantine is over. Check out these specials currently offered at Burien Chevrolet!
- Allergy season is upon us, so get a new cabin air filter for $49.95!
- Buy 3 tires and get the 4th for $1!
- Get your engine cooling system inspected for $29.95…normally $59.95!
- And more!
Call Burien Chevrolet today to make your appointment!
Three Ways to Easter In Quarantine
Usually Easter is a time for family and friends to gather for religious celebrations and/or Easter egg hunts. But, as with everything else this Spring, Easter is being affected by the Covid-19 pandemic with millions of people, including everyone in Washington State, under Shelter in Place orders. But there are still plenty of ways to celebrate Easter this year; here are three ideas how to make Easter special during quarantine.
1. Tune into religious services virtually. No matter your faith, there are lots of options to listen to sermons and music via the internet. While you can’t go out to services, there’s no reason you can’t hear the good word.
2. Skip the Easter Egg Hunt. All of us in Western Washington are used to being creative with indoor Easter Egg Hunts (because it’s usually raining), but that might be particularly difficult during a quarantine. How about skipping the Easter Bunny and inviting the Spring Fairy! The Spring Fairy comes AFTER Easter (and probably takes advantage of the post-Easter sales) and brings a basket of goodies/gifts. Kids never know when the Spring Fairy is going to come and often leaves glitter as evidence of her appearance. Here’s a link to some fun ideas!
3. This year seems like the perfect year to try something new. Have you ever colored your Easter eggs with shaving cream? It works and can turn out really cool. Check it out!
What are some ways you are celebrating Easter in quarantine?
Three Deals for the Chevy Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is one of the best new SUVs on the road this year and Chevrolet has three different deals to help you get in one!
- Get $3000 consumer cash on 2019 Chevrolet Tahoes
- Get $3000 consumer cash on 2020 Chevrolet Tahoes
- Lease a 2020 Chevrolet Tahoe for only $549 per month for 39 months!
Get more information and be sure to check out Burien Toyota’s inventory online!
Say Hello to the Refreshed 2021 Equinox
The Equinox is one of Chevrolet’s best-selling vehicles, so it should come as no surprise that the automaker has given it some updates for 2021. A new trim level, sleek exterior accents, and safety features have all been added to keep this vehicle fresh and modern. Let’s explore some of the newly refreshed upgrades you can expect to see when this SUV hits the dealership.
New Trim Level
The addition of a new trim level is one of the most significant changes for the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox. In 2020, trim levels were the L, LS, LT, and Premier. Now, you’ll find an RS trim in the lineup. This sportier version of the Equinox will boast a gloss black grille, 19-inch gloss black wheels, and black bow tie emblems. As for the inside, you’ll find a distinctive RS-specific shift knob and black upholstery with bold red stitching that really makes a statement. Read the rest of this entry »
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