The Black Diamond Farmer’s Market is opening its doors for the season on Friday. This is the third season for the market. They will be open from 3:00-7:00pm every Friday from June 5 through September 29, 2015. At the Farmer’s Market not only can you pick up local produce but also find art and artisanal products. Every week the market will highlight a theme to show off the growing season. This week (the first week) the market will be highlighting rhubarb, which is not just great in a pie. A BBQ truck is going to be there every week to tempt you with delicious eats while shopping. Don’t forget to check out the car we’re bringing to the Farmer’s Market each week. The market is located at 25203 Roberts Drive, Black Diamond, WA. We hope to see you there.
2016 Camaro Establishes New Performance Benchmark
The sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro will offer higher levels of performance, technology, and refinement and is designed to maintain the sporty car segment leadership earned over the past five years.
The recently revealed 2016 Camaro provides a faster, more nimble driving experience for drivers, enabled by an all-new, lighter architecture and a broader powertrain range. Six all-new powertrain combinations are offered, including a 2.0L Turbo, an all-new 3.6L V-6 and the LT1 6.2L V-8, which is SAE-certified at 455 horsepower (339 kW) and 455 lb-ft of torque (617 Nm) – for the most powerful Camaro SS ever. Each engine is available with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission.
“The much-anticipated next generation Camaro will be the best yet,” said Alan Gamblin. “It was thoughtfully engineered from the inside out and is sure to be a favorite among our customers.”
Camaro’s leaner, stiffer platform, and slightly smaller dimensions are accentuated by a dramatic, sculpted exterior. Meticulously tuned in the wind tunnel, the exterior contributes to performance through reduced aerodynamic lift for better handling while enhancing efficiency.
A driver-focused interior integrates class-leading control technologies, including a new Driver Mode Selector, configurable instrument cluster and a customizable ambient lighting feature.
“Redesigning the Camaro is thrilling and challenging all at once, but the secret is to offer something more,” said Mark Reuss, General Motors executive vice president of Product Development. “For Camaro enthusiasts, it retains iconic design cues and offers even more performance. For a new generation of buyers, the 2016 Camaro incorporates our most innovative engineering ideas with finely honed performance and leading design.”
Only two parts carry over from the fifth-generation Camaro to the new Gen Six: the rear bowtie emblem and the SS badge. Chevrolet focused on three pillars of development to make it not only the best Camaro ever, but one of the best performance cars available: performance, technology and design. In their quest to make the 2016 Camaro as lean as possible, engineers and designers evaluated every aspect of its architecture. As a result, the total curb weight for Camaro has been reduced by more than 200 pounds (90 kg).
The 2016 Camaro will be produced at GM’s Lansing Grand River assembly plant in Lansing, Mich. It will go on sale later this year and will be offered in LT and SS models.
Military Discount
GM Salutes Veterans During Military Appreciation Month
In honor of Military Appreciation Month, all active, reserve, retired and veteran military – regardless of separation date – can receive the GM Military Discount at on eligible Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles now through the end of June 2015.
Many members of our community have a connection to the military. We’re honored to show our gratitude to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces, who are currently serving and have previously served our country.
More than 40,000 active and veteran service members took advantage of the GM Military Discount last year, and GM is again offering the most comprehensive military pricing program of any automaker to all 22 million active and veteran service members from all branches: U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines, National Guard and Coast Guard – and their spouses – during May and June 2015.
First offered in 2008, the GM Military Discount Program features pricing below the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price for eligible vehicles. The expanded eligibility makes it the most comprehensive military purchase program in the auto industry through June 30, 2015. The discount can be combined with most other current incentives being offered. Current USAA Insurance members are also eligible for an additional $750 discount.
Indy 500
“Ladies & Gentleman, Start! Your! Engines!” Those iconic words have been spoken 98 previous times from the podium at the famous speedway, and this past Sunday, 32 brave drivers, 16 of which have a Chevy in the engine bay, were led over the yard of bricks for the 99th time. Scott Dixon sat on pole with hopes of holding off defending past winner Ryan Hunter-Reay who starts back in 16th, and claim his 2nd Indy 500 victory.
Neither Dixon or Hunter-Reay got to drink to the traditional milk this weekend because that honor went to Juan Pablo Montoya of Team Penske Chevrolet. He made a brilliant pass on his teammate, Will Power, going into turn 1 with only 4 laps remaining. Power tried to claw his way back but fell short of victory by only 0.1046sec. Will Power said shortly after the race, “Anywhere else I’d be happy with second, but here it sucks.” Montoya with a 2nd victory joins an elite and exclusive group of drivers such as: A.J. Foyt, Al Unser, Al Unser Jr., Helio Castroneves, Dan Wheldon, and Rick Mears. Team Penske Chevrolet claimed 1st, 2nd, 7th & 10th and achieved their 16th Indy 500 victory.
Chevrolet certainly has reason to celebrate with their engines in nearly every car finishing in the Top 11. IndyCar racing and Chevrolet began their relationship nearly 100 years ago starting with Mr. Chevrolet’s (Louis), passion for motorsports. He and his brothers, Arthur and Gaston, entered the famous race back in the 1920’s in a state-of-the-art machine they designed and built. They achieved back-to-back victories in 1920 & 1921 with Gaston as the driver in 1920 and Louis as the owner in 1921.
Top 10 Memorial Day Camping Spots
With Memorial Day just around the corner and the camping season set to take off, we thought we would give you a quick list of our 10 favorite campgrounds in Washington. With the variety of choices not only in number of campgrounds but settings, amenities, costs, etc. this list is in no particular order but each destination is sure to provide a wonderful experience.
- Kalaloch – Olympic National Park – Coast – Forks area
- This state operated campground located just up Hwy 101 is set on a bluff overlooking the majestic Pacific Ocean with several staircases leading down to the beach. Some sites have an ocean view and most enjoy the sound of crashing waves.
- Moran State Park – Orcas Island – San Juan Islands
- Nestled at the base of Mt. Constitution, this campground is divided up throughout the forest into 5 areas with 4 of them surrounding fresh water lakes. Easily accessible from your camp is the 2,400ft Mt. Constitution which provides spectacular views of the Puget Sound.
- Alder Lake Campground – Eatonville area
- The 161 acre campground is a drive from the major metro areas and is nestled in the shadow of Mt. Rainier. The campground is adjacent to Alder Lake which has a large sandy beach and a dedicated swim area and public boat launch. The campground offers a variety of site options from dry camp to full hook-up.
- Nason Creek – Wenatchee National Forest – Lake Wenatchee area
- A beautiful and lesser known alternative to the busy Lake Wenatchee State Park, Nason Creek is only a short walk from the lake but still provides amenities like flush toilets and potable water. The campground provides a lot of privacy between sites while canoe rentals, horseback riding, and ice cream are only a short hike away.
- Grayland Beach State Park – Coast, Westport area
- This is set right on the beach with 58 full hookup sites, 42 water/electric sites, 16 yurts, and 4 primitive sites along with restrooms and showers. Campers can enjoy clam digging, beach combing, surfing, boogie boarding or trip into nearby Westport.
- White River – Mt. Rainier National park – Crystal Mountain area
- At 4,400ft you will want to save your trip until late July but once the wildflowers that carpet the basin floor come into bloom you will be glad you did. Limited small RV sites are available but it is perfect for tent campers. The Wonderland and Glacier Basin trails run through camp making it a day hiker’s paradise.
- Millersylvania State Park – Olympia area
- With 3,330ft of shorline this 842-acre campground attracts boaters, fisherman and swimmers and also has an abundance of hiking trails that are guaranteed to provide some excellent day hikes through the old growth Cedar and Fir trees. There are 120 tent sites and 48 sites with hook-ups along with several showers and restrooms in the campground.
- Cape Disappointment State Park – Long Beach area
- This is the only campground on the list that doesn’t boast of great sites but the setting and view they have in spades. There are miles and miles of sandy coastline to hike, go clamming, go fishing or take a tour of a lighthouse. If tent camping isn’t your thing, try out one of their Yurts.
- Takhlakh Lake – Gifford Pinchot National Forest – Centralia/Longview area
- Before you come you need to learn how to say it, TOCK-lock. When you arrive you will quickly discover that Mt. Adams will provide a stunning backdrop to every campsite. The tranquil lake does not permit any motors so the serenity of canoes, kayaks and fishing are all that you will hear, if that’s even possible. Bring mosquito repellent, especially in the summer, but even a few bites and a few miles of washboard driving are worth the trip.
- Ike Kinswa State Park – Mayfield Lake – Chehalis/Mossyrock area
- If you like your camping filled with trees and water sports then this will be your paradise. This 454-acre park sits on the 14-mile long Mayfield Lake and with 103 sites and 5 cabins there is room for many, but given its popularity you will want to make your reservations early.
Put a Little Spark Back in Your Relationship
Man or woman, most of us have a love-hate relationship with our cars. They can throw us back in our seats making us hang on for dear life, they can haul our toys for a weekend of fun but they can also drain our wallets or leave us stranded in the middle of nowhere. Fortunately they do not tend to do the latter without warning.
If you are experiencing any of the following than maybe it’s time to inspect your electrical system (spark plugs, wires, ignition coils):
– Decrease in Fuel Economy
– Cylinder Misfires
– Check Engine Light
– Reduced Engine Power
– Rough Idle
– Trouble Starting Your Vehicle
Just because vital engine components, like spark plugs, wires and coils, are designed to last up to 100,000 miles doesn’t mean they will. They should be routinely inspected.
Mutual of Enumclaw Stage Race
Once a year cycling enthusiast from across the Pacific Northwest gather in Enumclaw to compete in one of Washington’s biggest and most competitive races. The Mutual of Enumclaw Stage Race is held yearly in May. With its beautiful scenic route and grueling inclines the MOESR draws a crowd of about 600 participants. The race was converted into a traditional timed stage race format in 2010. It is the only timed stage race an hour from Seattle, so not only does it bring in particapants from around the area but also Canada.
The race begins on Saturday with the very first lap following the road up to Mud Mountian Dam, which has a quick rise of 800 ft. each lap. The leg-burning speed is needed for the first lap to be kept out of elimination. Those who make it through to a spot in the criterium can expect a fun, action packed course. The criterium course runs through the heart of downtown Enumclaw. The day following an eight-corner technical criterium and time trail, the road race quickly cuts the participants down to an elite group. The race ends Sunday with 44 mile road race. The total prize purse is $10,000 and is awarded to the top three finishers.
Local residents love to come watch the race. The best place to catch the race is around the Enumclaw Library on Saturday evening. The Kids’ race begins at 5:00 pm and quickly following the Kid’s race you can catch the criterium. Registration for the Kid’s Race is held between 3:45-4:45 in the library parking lot. Be sure to watch for the Gamblin Motor’s pace car.
For information on registering and specific race details: http://www.moestagerace.com/
Our Pace Car
EHS Student Photography Contest
Over the past few years, Gamblin Motors has sponsored a photo contest for EHS students. The students are given a month to send us their very best photos. These photos are uploaded to our Facebook page. Our Facebook followers are asked to vote for the favorite photo. Students encourage their friends and family to vote for their photo. At the end of the contest, the photo with the most likes wins. The winner receives $250.
Our 2015 contest kicks off this week. Students can send us their photos beginning May15. They will be uploaded to our Facebook page the next day. The contest runs from May 15-June 16. The Winner will be announced on June 17. Get ready to vote for your favorite photo. Here are the instructions for interested EHS students:
Contest Instructions
-Save Photo with your name using this format: First_Last _Grade
-Email Photo to corigamblin@gmail.com. Your photo will be uploaded to Gamblin Motor’s Facebook page the next day.
-Spread the word to get the most likes for your photo on Gamblin Motor’s Facebook page.
-The photo with the most likes wins $250 cash.
Helpful Hints
- Like Art Gamblin Motors on FB
- Get your photo in soon. (If your photo is one of the first posted, it will be up the longest.)
- Spread the word on your FB page.
- Repost our photo contest posts on your wall.
- Have friends and family also post your contest photo on their wall.
The more people who see your photo the more votes you will get.
Serving at Full Bellies
One of our favorite ways to help out the plateau community is cooking and providing dinner for Full Bellies. Full Bellies offers a FREE hot meal for families and individuals in a warm environment. Meals are prepared every Thursday by various groups and companies in the Enumclaw community. Several times a year Gamblin Motor’s employees get to serve at Full Bellies.
Full Bellies was started by Colleen Michael, a stay-at-home mom, who didn’t want to see kids going to bed hungry. She had a vision to bring hot meals to families in need. With the help of Rainier Foothills Wellness Foundation, Calvary Presbyterian Church, and volunteers from the community, her vision became a reality. Anyone is welcome and can get a hot meal every Thursday at Calvary Presbyterian Church starting at 5:30pm. Full Bellies needs community support; for information on how to volunteer contact Rene Popke at the Rainier Foothills Foundation. This is a great way to get involved and help fight hunger.
http://rfwellnessfoundation.org/initiatives/neighbors-feeding-neighbors/
April is Car Care Month
April is car care month, which reminds driver to give their vehicle a thorough checkup, before the summer driving season.
“We encourage our customers to take care of their vehicles year-round and the onset of spring is a perfect time to inspect vehicles for wear and damage caused by winter driving,” said Alan Gamblin.
Many services are best left to the pros, while customers can do others themselves. Along with routine services like an oil and filter change, brake check and fresh wiper blades, ACDelco experts – General Motors’ original equipment and independent aftermarket parts brand – recommend the following:
Go with the pros:
- Oil change– Having the oil and oil filter changed, at least as often as recommended by the manufacturer, is likely to generate the single biggest return on your investment in routine auto service and maintenance. Replacing the dirty oil and filter will help protect the internal parts of the engine from premature wear. It’s important to use the recommended grade of oil for your vehicle for the best protection and fuel mileage.
- Spark plugs– Many are designed to last 100,000 miles, but they can get dirty or fail prematurely. Ignition wires lose insulating ability over time, and the connection to the plug or ignition coil can degrade. Having plugs checked and, if necessary, replaced, can improve vehicle performance and fuel economy.
- Examine belts, clamps and hoses– Tighten or replace as necessary.
- Replace worn or damagedsuspension components – Like struts, shocks, tie rods and bushings, which take the brunt of spring potholes and bumpy gravel roads.
- Test the battery– Heat can tax a battery as much as cold. Modern batteries are about more than cold cranking amps. ACDelco batteries also provide optimum reserve capacity – for all the electronic devices used in today’s vehicles.
Do it yourself:
- Sunroof– Inspect weather strips and remove debris from drains before they leak into vehicle. Wipe the sunroof seal and roof sealing area with a clean cloth, mild soap and water.
- Cabin air filter– Replace this filter to improve airflow through the interior climate control system and help remove pollen, allergens and stale odors. Most owner’s manuals explain how to do it.
- Radiator and condenser– Sand and salt can corrode and damage these elements, which are what you see through your vehicle’s grille. With the engine off, use a garden hose (do NOT power wash) with medium spray or open flow to wash away dirt and salt. This simple step can improve engine cooling and air conditioning performance
- Spare tire– Make sure it’s properly inflated and that you have a portable compressor, a jack and a tire iron in the event of a flat.
You can call Gamblin Motors at (877) 459-1449 to set up an appointment for their vehicle’s springtime services.