Five History Museums in Ohio to Visit in Your Chevrolet

Learn how Ohio helped shape the nation

Even before Ohio’s inception in 1803, Ohio history weaves a long and complex web of events. Native Americans had a prominent home in the state, and explorers traveled its diverse land to reach other areas of the country. Ohio played an important role in the Civil War, and it still remains a very politically-relative state. With such a wide history, Ohio offers numerous historical museums and exhibitions.

The Harriet Beecher Stowe House

The acclaimed author, Harriet Beecher Stowe, wrote the book Uncle Tom’s Cabin at a point in history when slavery divided the nation. The book was one of the first of its kind to describe the everyday life of slavery, and it was monumental in steering the Civil War. Located in the historic Walnut Hills neighborhood of Cincinnati, The Harriet Beecher Stowe House celebrates the life of the author, who shared the home with her family in her young years from the mid-1830s to 1850s. For more information, visit stowehousecincy.org or call (513) 751-0651.

The Ohio History Center and Ohio Village

This working village from the 19th century allows visitors to feel as if they have stepped back in time 100 years. From blacksmiths, weavers, pastors and cooks, visitors meet with costumed performers who depict the work and play from Ohio’s earliest times. The Ohio History Center is located on the same grounds and hosts a museum and library. The Ohio History Center and Ohio Village are centrally located on 17th Avenue in Columbus. Visit http://www.ohiohistory.org/programs–events/ohio-village to learn more.

Garst Museum
Darke County played an important role in the state’s history. Fort Green Ville was home to thousands of troops during its tenure, and the Treaty of Green Ville was one of the most important treaties signed between settlers and the American Indians. In addition, sharp-shooter Annie Oakley hailed from the area and spent much of her time in what is now known as Greenville. The Garst Museum displays the historical accounts of the fort, the treaty, and the life and death of Annie Oakley. Learn more by visiting http://www.garstmuseum.org.

Center for Holocaust and Humanity

Developed by Holocaust survivors and their children, the Center for Holocaust and Humanity offers one of the most in-depth displays of the Holocaust. Located on the grounds of the Rockwern Academy in Cincinnati, the “Mapping Our Tears” display remains the most-visited at the museum, with audio and visual accounts from more than 60 survivors as told in their own words. Visit http://www.holocaustandhumanity.org or call (513) 487-3055 to learn more.

Allen County Museum

Located in downtown Lima, the Allen County Museum offers a historical tour appropriate for all ages. Kids can visit the Children’s Discovery Center, which includes a Native American wigwam and one-room schoolhouse. The museum also features a Victorian 1893 home and a log house. Visit http://www.allencountymuseum.org for additional information.

Learn more about Ohio’s diverse and rich history by visiting one of its many local cultural displays or museums.

Vehicle Preview: 2015 Chevrolet Colorado

Full-size ability in a midsize package

The all-new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, available soon here at Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio, is rewriting the midsize truck rule-book. With an all-new design, class-leading ability and new powertrain options, the 2015 Colorado will be the most capable midsize pickup Chevrolet has ever created.

The all-new 2015 Chevrolet Colorado (MSRP TBD) packs a full-size punch. Just like the full-size Silverado, the Colorado is being offered with a choice of body styles, bed lengths and drivetrain options, allowing you to build the perfect truck for you. Extended Cab and Crew Cab models are both available with standard or long-box bed lengths, and engine choices include a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, a 3.6-liter V6 and a 2.8-liter turbodiesel.

Official data has yet to be released, but Chevy estimates the power output of the 2.5-liter engine to be 193 hp and 184 lb/ft of torque. The V6 is estimated to produce 302 hp and 270 lb/ft of torque. Those numbers will make the Colorado the most powerful in its segment. Chevy estimates a maximum tow rating of more than 6,700 pounds for a properly equipped Colorado, again best in class.

For even more power and towing capability, the Colorado will also be offered with a 2.8-liter four-cylinder Duramax^® turbodiesel engine (2015 availability), making it the first and only diesel-powered truck in the segment to be offered in the United States.

Transmission choices include a six-speed automatic with Tow/Haul Mode that’s standard in most models and a six-speed manual that’s available in the entry 2.5-liter trim. The Colorado will also offer the option of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive across the model line.

To make the 2015 Colorado is the most capable truck in the segment, Chevrolet carried as many features over from the Silverado as possible. A fully boxed frame adds strength and provides a solid platform for the suspension, contributing to the smooth and refined ride of the all-new Colorado. The four-wheel disc braking system features the same Duralife^™ brake rotor technology that debuted on the 2014 Silverado. Another carry over from the larger trucks is the availability of the G80 automatic locking rear differential. Even the CornerStep rear bumper design carries over from the larger Silverado.

While Chevrolet focused on providing full-size ability in a midsize platform, the Colorado was also built to set a new benchmark in comfort and refinement. The door panels and headliner have been sculpted to increase interior space without increasing the overall size of the truck, and the doors are triple sealed to provide unparalleled aerodynamic performance and quietness.  The Colorado even features an aluminum hood and active aero grille shutters to increase fuel economy, both segment firsts.

The new Colorado will be the first midsize truck to offer built-in 4G LTE connectivity. Other technology features include an eight-inch touch-screen display, available navigation, and the next-generation Chevrolet MyLink system featuring gesture and voice control. Through the available OnStar system, the Colorado becomes a rolling Wi-Fi hotspot that gives you a reliable connection to the internet.

Car Care: Windshield and Windshield Wiper Maintenance

Being able to see clearly is imperative when you’re on the road

With all the fancy equipment and cutting-edge technologies available on the cars we drive, staying safe seems easier and more convenient than ever before. However, one of the most basic, yet crucial, safety factors is often overlooked. Being able to see out your windshield, and making sure that your wipers do their job, is crucial to your safety and the safety of your passengers.

 

Clean windshield without cracks, chips and stains provides much more than just good visibility. Your windshield performs functions directly linked to passenger safety, among the most important being airbag deflection (some passenger airbags are specifically designed to bounce off the windshield) and preventing the roof from caving in. According to ABC News, there are approximately 11 million windshield replacements done per year and, unfortunately, many are done by technicians who don’t take the proper time or aren’t trained properly. Stop by and talk to a service advisor to find out about windshield replacement options. It’s important that only properly trained technicians replace your windshield, using parts that are specifically designed for your make and model of vehicle.

 

Your vehicle’s wiper blades are also often overlooked yet important pieces of equipment. Whether you need to move heavy snow, rain or road debris, your wipers play a critical role in maintaining visibility. Wipers are normally good for six-months to a year, but if you notice streaking or skipping it may be time to invest in a new pair. Putting this off can actually cause damage to your windshield if the wiper arms were to rub directly against the glass. Again, stop by and have the proper windshield wipers installed for your automobile.

 

Don’t overlook that cracked windshield or worn out pair of windshield wipers any longer. Stop by today and keep your vehicle as safe as possible.

 

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio. www.jackmaxton.com

Five Foodie Destinations in Ohio

A food lover’s guide to the Buckeye State

As one of the largest agricultural producers in the U.S., Ohio is a mecca for fresh food and farm-to-table dining experiences. Explore the varied and diverse food options the Buckeye State has to offer.

Go international at the North Market

Tucked into the Short North neighborhood of Columbus, the North Market offers one of the area’s most diverse public markets. The selection of more than 30 vendors includes prepared meals from Italian, Belgian, Polish and Indian kitchens. During the Ohio growing season, the North Market is host to the oldest and largest Columbus farmers market. Dine at the market and then take home other delectable finds like wine, desserts, cheese and chocolates. Visit http://www.northmarket.com to learn more.

Trek the aisles at Jungle Jim’s

Navigating Jungle Jim’s often requires a map and several hours of devoted time. As the largest international food grocery store in Ohio, Jungle Jim’s carries a diverse display of Asian, Indian, Middle Eastern and African foods. The expansive store also has its own cheese shop, olive pit, coffee shop and wine selection. While visiting, be sure to check out the sites that make Jungle Jim’s unique, like the theme park ride displays and the deceivingly disguised restrooms. The original store is located on Dixie Highway in Fairfield. A second location recently opened in Eastgate, south of Cincinnati. For more information, visit http://www.junglejims.com.

Step back in time in Amish Country

Time moves just a little slower in Holmes County, where rolling hills, country log cabins and Amish buggies dot the landscape. As home to the Guggisberg Cheese Factory, Breitenbach Wines, and Heini’s Gourmet Market, there are miles of food stores and restaurants to explore. Enjoy a home-style meal at Boyd and Wurthmann Restaurant and then head to Der Dutchman Bakery for dessert. Visit http://www.ohiosamishcountry.com for dining and lodging information.

Discover the revamped depot in Dayton

A renovated B&O Railroad building, the Second Street Market in downtown Dayton is committed to local, sustainable food and goods. Vendors range from local artisans to farmers and culinary experts. Open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Market visitors can dine for breakfast or lunch. Specialty coffees and foods line the venue, as do vegetables and fruits during the growing season. Additional information is available at http://www.metroparks.org/Parks/SecondStreetMarket/.

Farm the fields and rub elbows with professional chefs

Food lovers who want the experience of harvesting and preparing their own vegetables can get no closer to the farm-to-table experience than a visit to the Culinary Vegetable Institute. Located on Old Mudbrook Road in Milan, the institute is focused on healthy eating education and sustainable living. Special events are held throughout the year, and a monthly Earth-to-Table Dinner Party draws large crowds. Visit http://www.culinaryvegetableinstitute.com to learn more.

Spend an afternoon, evening, or weekend exploring some of Ohio’s favorite food destinations. Whether you want to dine out or simply discover unique foods to prepare at home, you’re sure to find the perfect bite in Ohio.

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Vehicle Profile: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country

The most luxurious Silverado model ever

 

The Chevrolet Silverado has gone through a full “hood-to-hitch” makeover and emerged for 2014 leading the segment in V8 fuel economy, maximum towing capacity and cabin quietness, to name a few of its virtues. For drivers who appreciate the finer things in life but still need a tough-as-nails pickup to get the job done, Chevrolet designed the Silverado High Country, the epitome of luxurious capability and it’s available here at Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

Available exclusively in a Crew Cab body style with either a five-foot, eight inch or a six-foot, six-inch bed length, the 2014 Silverado High Country (MSRP $45,605) is the brand’s first premium trim. Powering the High Country is a 5.3-liter EcoTec3 V8 that cranks out 355 hp and 383 lb/ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. The six-speed automatic now features Automatic Grade Braking, which reduces brake wear by downshifting the transmission. The Silverado High Country uses Duralife^® brake rotors that last up to twice as long as conventional rotors and vibrate less. Also available is the all-new, 6.2-liter EcoTec3 V8 that ups power to a best-in-class 420 hp and 460 lb/ft of torque. Drivers can expect a maximum payload capacity of 1,957 pounds (more than Ram 1500 and Toyota Tundra) and a 9,800 pound maximum towing capacity.

Credit direct fuel Injection, Active Fuel Management and Continuously Variable Valve Timing for the 5.3-liter V8’s excellent fuel economy. Its EPA-estimated 23 mpg highway makes it the most efficient gasoline V8 truck engine ever. Other notables include a new electric power steering system, a standard locking rear differential, a trailering package, Trailer Sway Control, and two years or 24,000 miles of free factory scheduled maintenance – coverage not offered by either Ford or Ram. In addition, the Silverado comes with 40,000 miles more powertrain warranty coverage than is offered on the Ford F-150 and the Toyota Tundra.

The Silverado High Country features a unique chrome grille with chrome bars, trim-specific 20-inch chrome wheels, chrome side moldings, mirrors and handles, and body-colored bumpers.  The rear CornerStep bumper makes for easier access to the bed. Front and rear park assist are also standard.

High-end craftsmanship is apparent in the Saddle Brown interior that’s unique to the High Country. The seats are covered in premium leather, and the front seats are heated and cooled and have “High Country” badging on the headrests. Other impressive equipment includes the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with an eight-inch touch-screen, a Bose Premium audio system, power-sliding rear window, remote start and a Rear Vision Camera. Available features include a navigation system, Rear Seat Entertainment System with BluRay capability, a sunroof and a High Country Premium Package that adds adjustable pedals, a heated steering wheel and a Driver Alert Package with Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning.

“Silverado High Country adds a higher degree of capability to the premium truck market and broadens the all-new Silverado’s lineup with a unique combination of exclusive features and purposeful technologies,” said Maria Rohrer, Silverado marketing director. “Its class-leading power is matched with the strong chassis and new suspension and drivetrain elements that make the 2014 Silverado 1500 the strongest, most capable and most refined truck in Chevrolet’s history.”

Regardless of whether you want your truck to work hard or play hard or both, the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado High Country won’t let you down. Stop by today to see and drive the new 2014 Silverado High Country.

http://www.jackmaxton.com

Keeping Your Car Clean and Protected in Winter

Tips for protecting your car and keeping it looking good

Winter is here, the time of year when road conditions are often less than ideal and keeping your vehicle’s exterior clean can be even more of a challenge, and even more important. Whether you live in a warm, cold or seasonal climate, keeping your car’s exterior clean and protected is the best way to keep the vehicle looking great for many years to come.

“While neglecting the paint job may not lead to mechanical performance issues, it will result in a lower resale value, just like if you never changed your oil or got a tune up,” states Charles W. Bryant from Howstuffworks.com. Also, people often believe that a car that looks bad is also poorly maintained mechanically, making them less likely to offer top-dollar if you want to sell it or trade it in.

Anyone who wants to maintain the value of their vehicle and keep it looking beautiful needs to protect its exterior, no matter the outside temperature. “Bird droppings, wind, rain, hail, tree sap, smog, ultraviolet rays from the sun––you name it,” states Bryant. “There are a host of threats to your car’s shiny finish.”

If you live in an area with ice and snow, you may also have to deal with road salt. Salt is great for melting ice off the roads and clearing a path from your driveway to your front door, and it is also used in some areas as a pre-treatment to prevent ice formation during warmer weather than you might expect. Unfortunately, it is also great at creating corrosion and damaging vehicle paint. Thoroughly wash the exterior and undercarriage of your vehicle often to remove salt, slush and mud. A good coat of wax in the fall will help protect your vehicle’s finish during the winter.

Aside from frequent cleanings, regular waxing is one of the best ways to protect your vehicle’s finish because it helps preserve the oils in the paint that prevent the oxidative process that causes dulling. If water doesn’t bead up nicely during your next car wash, then you likely need a new coat of wax.

Winter debris can also damage your windshield wipers. If your wipers are leaving behind streaks or making strange squealing or chattering noises, it’s time to think about replacing them.

“Inspect the wiper blades monthly,” recommends AAA. “Check to see if they are worn, cracked or rigid with age. Damaged wiper blades won’t adequately remove debris, compromising the driver’s vision and safety.” You can also obtain special winter windshield wiper blades from your dealer, which are better equipped to stand up to the harsh conditions that winter brings, such as heavy snow, ice and debris.

“It’s suggested that you replace your windshield wipers every six to 12 months,” says John Fuller from HowStuffWorks.com. “Keeping your wiper fluid filled up is also a plus, as fluid can assist in breaking up snow and ice on the windshield.”

If you live where it gets cold, using fluid formulated for lower temperatures will prevent washer freeze-up.

All it takes is a little bit of extra attention in order to keep your car protected and looking beautiful. “Proper maintenance can extend the life of your vehicle and help prevent costly repairs,”  said John Nielsen, managing director of AAA Automotive Engineering and Repair.

Head in to the dealership and let the experts prepare your vehicle’s exterior for winter weather today.

http://www.jackmaxton.com