2017 EHS Photo Contest

Over the past few years, Gamblin Motors has sponsored a photo contest for EHS students. The students are given two weeks 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 and comments wins. The winner receives $250. Participants need to be a current student of Enumclaw High School, and they are allowed to submit up to five photos.

Our 2017 contest kicks off this next week. Students can send us their photos beginning May 23. They will be uploaded to our Facebook page the next day. The contest runs from June 23-June 5. The Winner will be announced on June 6. 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

  1. Like Art Gamblin Motors on FB
  2. Get your photo in soon. (If your photo is one of the first posted, it will be up the longest.)
  3. Spread the word on your FB page.
  4. Repost our photo contest posts on your wall.
  5. 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.

2017 Motor Trend Car of the Year

Introducing Motor Trend’s 2017 Car of the Year, the Chevrolet Bolt EV. The Bolt is being hailed as a game changer in the industry. Chevrolet has been experimenting with electric vehicles since the 1960’s. With the new Chevrolet Bolt, they have hit their stride and are shaking up the electric car market. According to one judge, the Bolt is simply “twice the car for half the price of a BMW i3.” Motor Trend and Car and Driver are both putting Tesla on notice as this new Chevrolet has set the standard of performance but is coming in at a reasonable price. It is not just a top of the market electric car; it is a remarkable car, period. Motor Trend asserts that “perhaps the most impressive thing about the Bolt EV is there are no caveats, no ‘for an electric car’ qualifiers needed in any discussion. It is, simply, a world-class small car.” What happens when you have a long-range electric vehicle in a world-class package? You get the Motor Trend 2017 Car of the Year.

The Chevrolet Bolt EV runs an EPA=certified range of 238 miles. This long-range charge is set to cover a commute, errands, quick getaway, or any other unexpected tasks that pop up in your day. The Bolt EV’s tall hatchback design lends a comfortable experience for all passengers and does not fail to provide entertainment for those along for the ride with its seven device capable 4G LTE onboard Wi-Fi hot spot. Don’t worry drivers, you won’t be left out. Motor Trend judges report the Bolt is “fast, fun, and genuinely entertaining to drive.”

How much will the car of year cost you? This is where the Chevrolet Bolt EV truly shines. Coming in well below other electric vehicles on the market, the Bolt starts at $37,495 in LT trim, but with available tax credits, consumers can drive this vehicle home for under $30,000. This affordable, cutting edge technology housed in a world class vehicle is revolutionary for the industry. As Car and Driver affirms, the Bolt is “the most important vehicle for battery-electric technology to date.” To see the Motor Trend Car of the Year for yourself, come in for a test drive today http://bit.ly/2rdnvLC.

2018 Buick Enclave

New and versatile comes the 2018 Buick Enclave.  This Enclave will include more third row space, improved towing, more safety technology, useful interior features, and intuitive technology.  “Every detail of the all-new Enclave is designed to feel premium, well-crafted and integrated,” said Helen Emsley, executive director of Global Buick and GMC Design.

New proportions and bodylines accentuate the redesigned front end grille. This new body was built for safety.  There are 17 radar, camera, and ultrasonic sensors that come standard and allows you to customize your safety alerts.   It can tow up to 5,000 pounds and comes with a standard 3.6 L V-6 engine.  It is estimated to have 302 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

Trying to top the benchmark for quietness, the 2018 is engineered to further minimize unwanted interior noise.  QuietTuning and active noise cancellation help reduce, block, and absorb noise.  “For Enclave customers, who are often driving family and friends, the ability to easily carry a conversations with passengers in all three rows is essential to their daily driving experiences,” said Dean Perelli, chief engineer for the Buick Enclave.

The Enclave has lots of cargo solutions for large and small loads. There is seating for seven. Second and third row seats fold flat to create a nearly-flat load floor. The Enclave boasts more interior space than an Acura MDX, Audi Q7, and the Infiniti QX60.

Standard on the 2018 Enclave includes keyless entry and push-button start, a hands free power programmable liftgate, tri-zone climate control, universal home remote, and six USB ports.  It will come equipped with an OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.  An 8-inch diagonal infotainment system and Apple CarPlay and Adroid Auto is standard.

You can expect to see the 2018 Enclave on our showroom in the fall of 2017.

Mr. Gamblin Goes to Olympia

This year marks the twentieth anniversary of Dealer Day in our state’s capitol. As Vice President of the Washington State Auto Dealers Association, Alan Gamblin oversaw the day’s events in Olympia. Dealer Day is an opportunity for car dealers to meet with their local representatives and discuss legislation affecting their consumers and the industry at large. This event opens important lines of communication between representatives and their local business owners and constituents. Washington car dealers help local communities thrive by providing 20,980 family wage jobs resulting in a combined payroll of over $1.3 billion dollars. Gamblin Motors participates in Dealer Day to help relay the hopes and concerns of these workers and their communities.

During this year’s event, Alan, Jeri, and Tyson Gamblin personally met with the Washington Republican Caucus leader, Representative Dan Kristiansen, and the greater Plateau’s district representatives, Senator Phil Fortunato and House Representatives Drew Stokesbary and Morgan Irwin.  These constructive sessions allow dealers and representatives to discuss progressive legislation aimed at strengthening local businesses and protecting consumers from increased costs. Gamblin Motors believes these meetings are critical in helping our workforce and local communities. We look forward to working with our local representatives in making the Plateau a safe and prosperous place to call home.

A Drill Team For Everyone

Stirrin’ Dust is a local Drill Team that caught our attention. Stirrin’ Dust was started in 2005 by two sisters, Lana and Alicia. Alicia was the one who first hatched the idea that they should start a drill team. Neither sister had ever ridden on a drill team, so starting their own was a huge challenge.   A lot of people told them they would not be able to succeed. These two girls proved those people wrong; they studied everything they could found and began to practice. They quickly attracted other riders.

Stirrin’ Dust started out as an exhibition team showing off some great choreography skills. They performed at Meridian Riding Club Playdays, Horse Shows, and county fairs. As the team began to perform they accrued a great group of riders. Several years later, the riders decided to begin riding in the competitive circuit. In 2012 the won the Novice division, but were most excited to bring home the Sportsmanship award. The sportsmanship award is voted on by all the teams in the league to honor the team that should dedication to their fellow riders.

This amazing team prides itself on provided a home for any rider that would like to learn regardless of skill level. They believe that if you have a horse and a respect and a great attitude you are welcome. Running a drill team is hard work and is a very costly sport. We are happy to sponsor this great drill team. Be sure to check out their up coming schedule. http://www.stirrindust.com/

FFA Spaghetti Feed and Silent Auction

We love hearing about great community events. This month we were contacted by the Enumclaw FFA Chapter; they asked us to help sponsor a great event. We were happy to provide a donation to help with its annual fundraiser. The local FFA Chapter held its annual Spaghetti Feed and Silent Auction. The event had a great meal, live music, and a silent auction. The money raised is used to help support the FFA members and to help pay for their involvement in leadership events.

The National FFA Organization is committed to helping students have personal growth and career success through agricultural education. FFA stands for Future Farmers of America, but is not just for those interested in farming. Over the years the FFA has expanded its members to students who are interested in careers as teachers, doctors, scientists, and business owners. The FFA mission statement states, “FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.”

 

Watch our Facebook page to make sure you don’t miss this great event next year.

 

Biking For a Great Cause

Join us on March 25th as Gamblin Motors’ employees cycle to raise funds in the fight against ovarian cancer. The Ovarian Cycle program holds indoor cycling events across the country to raise awareness and funds for the ovarian cancer community. All proceeds raised go to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund Alliance (OCRFA) and are used for research, advocacy, and support of ovarian cancer victims. We invite all to join our cycling team and cycle alongside us or donate to support the event.

The fight against ovarian cancer is a very important cause for Gamblin Motors and the Gamblin family. Jeri Gamblin lost her mother to ovarian cancer 29 years ago. To cycle in honor of those who have been affected by ovarian cancer is a great privilege. 1 in 75 women will develop ovarian cancer in her lifetime. It is 5th cause of cancer-related death for women and 11th most common cancer in women. Gamblin Motors is proud to be a part of this event as we work together to battle this terrible disease.  Click here to support the Ovarian Cycle program by hopping onto a bike and joining our team or donating in support of our efforts: http://bit.ly/2mcqv4y.

Be Prepared to Feel a Pinch When Renewing Your Tabs

Be prepared to feel the pinch when renewing your vehicle tabs this year. As of March 1st, the Regional Transit Authority tax goes into effect for those living within the Sound Transit District. While Gamblin Motors’ hometown of Enumclaw and Buckley are not positioned within the taxed district, many of our neighbors in King, Pierce, and Snohomish County can expect a higher bill this year. How much higher? The tax will increase from 0.3% to 1.1% resulting in a $110 annual fee for a $10,000 vehicle. While the Sound Transit 3 measure garnered strong support last November, residents are still in for some sticker shock when it comes time for tab renewals.

Taxes collected are slated for a large expansion of light rail in Tacoma, Seattle, and Everett. The Sounder Commuter will also see expansion under the measure. In addition to the rail improvements, park-and-ride and bus-rapid transit are scheduled for further development. Just how much is this investment going to cost you? First, it is important to determine if you live within the taxable district. Sound Transit provides an address locator to see if you fall within the boundary: http://bit.ly/2mECzfm. If you do in fact live within the Sound Transit District, the Department of Licensing has a vehicle tab estimator to give drivers an idea of what to expect when their tag renewal letter arrives in the mail: http://bit.ly/2lOrI51.

2017 Chevy Colorado ZR2

Chevy is proud of its new 2017 Colorado ZR2. The truck is ready for any off road fun, but offers the smooth ride in the city. This truck has everyone excited. The off-road ZR2 trim level will be available this spring. It will start at $40,995 MSRP.

2017 ColoradoThe new Colorado ZR2 is loaded with exclusive features. Off-Road Mode Technology is an amazing feature that lets you pick between Desert, Mud, or Mountain. Plus, the Colorado ZR2 offers a brand new advanced 3.6L V6 engine with eight-speed transmission, in addition to the segment-exclusive Duramax® 2.8L Turbo-Diesel.  But it’s the shocks that has everyone talking. Suspension technology has been revolutionized by the Colorado’s new Multimatic shocks. The engineers at Multimatic were commissioned to build the new shock absorbers for the ZR2. Multimatic were the first to design the Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) damper. They replaced the piston and shims with a spoon valve. Chevy first used the DSSV technology in the 2014 Camaro Z/28. The engineers were excited to design shocks with their DSSV technology on a pickup. The shocks on the ZR2 make for the most comfortable ride on and off road

“ZR2 is truly a segment of one and does everything well — from traversing heavy two-track trails to high-speed desert running and full-on rock crawling. We’re thrilled to be able to offer it for more than $2,500 less than the next closest comparable vehicles.,” said Sandor Piszar, Chevrolet Trucks marketing director.  Check out the available features on the ZR2.

Available options on the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 will include:

  • Class-exclusive 2.8L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, capable of 186 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque
  • Choice of crew- or extended cab configurations (including short and long beds, respectively)
  • 7-speaker Bose premium audio system
  • Dealer-installed, bed-mounted spare tire carrier
  • Full-length black vinyl floor (no additional cost — standard interior features leather seats and carpet)

The ZR2’s starting MSRP includes a number of key standard features unique to the trim level, such as:

  • Class-exclusive front and rear locking electronic differentials
  • Revolutionary, segment-exclusive Multimatic Dynamic Suspensions Spool Valve (DSSVTM) dampers
  • Off-road rocker protection
  • Modified front and rear bumpers for better off-road obstacle clearance
  • Exclusive ZR2 17 x 8-inch aluminum alloy wheels
  • 31-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac off-road tires
  • New cast-iron control arms
  • An aluminum skidplate that protects the radiator and engine oil pan
  • Autotrac transfer case
  • Transfer case shield
  • Aggressive grille and hood combo unique to ZR2
  • Modified rear axle with a 3.42 ratio
  • Front and rear tracks widened 3.5 inches over a standard Colorado
  • Suspension lifted 2 inches over a standard Colorado
  • Off-Road Mode Technology
  • 4-wheel disc brakes

 

Other standard features include:

  • Tow/haul mode
  • Trailering Package, including trailer hitch and 7-pin connector
  • Integrated trailer brake controller
  • Spray-on bedliner
  • Heated driver and passenger front seats
  • Wireless phone charging
  • Rear sliding window
  • EZ Lift and Lower tailgate
  • Locking tailgate
  • Recovery hooks
  • A six-speaker audio system with Chevrolet MyLink Radio with Navigation and an 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen, AM/FM stereo with seek-and-scan and a digital clock, Bluetooth streaming audio for music and select phones, voice-activated technology for radio and phone featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability as well as an auxiliary jack
  • All-terrain spare tire with unique ZR2 wheel
  • Four USB ports: one on the instrument panel, one in the center console and two in the rear of the center console
  • Electronic automatic cruise control
  • Rear window electric defogger
  • OnStar 4G LTE with built-in Wi-Fi
  • Rear Vision Camera
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Remote vehicle starter system
  • 4-way power front driver and passenger seat adjuster with power driver lumbar control
  • Rear seats with underseat storage

 

 

25 Years in the Business

Alan Gamblin 25 year award2016 marked Alan Gamblin’s 25th year as a Chevrolet and Buick dealer. Alan starting working at Gamblin Motors in 1969 and spent his formative years at the Gamblin dealership washing cars and making sure the original Gamblin location on Griffin looked its very best. Every now and again his hard work would pay off in the form of moving one of the shiny new Corvettes for sale. After high school, Alan went off to college and returned home in 1978 with his new wife, Jeri, and an eagerness to learn all of the different aspects of the car business. For the next 13 years, Alan moved through the ranks of the dealership. He began as a salesman and eventually graduated to sales manager. He continued to learn and study the important roles of the varying departments including finance, parts, service, and the body shop. In 1985 Alan became a full partner in the dealership. During his time as a partner, Alan took the primary role of building and managing the main Gamblin location on Hwy 410. He officially took the dealership reins from his father, Art Gamblin, and purchased the business in 1991. This past November Alan was honored by General Motors for his 25 years as a Chevrolet and Buick dealer.

Since Alan became the managing dealer and owner in 1991, Gamblin Motors has continued to expand and grow under his guidance. The community of Enumclaw’s rugged and beautiful terrain called for a location focused on tough working vehicles. To better service hometown customers, Gamblin Motors opened one of General Motor’s few GM approved truck showrooms in the United States. The Gamblin Truck Center opened its doors in 2000. In addition to the construction of an additional dealership location, Alan also completed a significant remodel to the main store in 2012. These two award winning dealerships are a testament to the hard work and effort put in by the Gamblin family with Alan at the helm. Alan’s knowledge of the car industry is well known throughout the Pacific Northwest. He has twice been named President of the Northwest Chevrolet Dealer’s advertising association and served on a national Chevrolet advertising committee. He is currently the Washington State Auto Dealer’s Vice President and will be named president of the association this coming May. Alan hopes to pass his training and success on to the next generation of Gamblins. Just like Alan, Tyson and Andrew Gamblin began washing cars and sweeping floors as young boys. With the completion of their college degrees, both have come home to learn the business and continue the Gamblin legacy of honest and professional service.