Kia AutoSport goes PINK!

It's finally October! The weather is cooling off, and there is a slight pink tent around Tallahassee. You know what that means: Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

This year we are happy to announce that we are a sponsor for the  Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K! This year the 5K will be held on Sunday, October 19th at Cascades Park at 1:00 pm!

It's time to start a team, join a team, or walk as an individual! Register your team early at www.makingstrideswalk.org/leon

"Every Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk is a powerful and inspiring opportunity to unite as a community to honor breast cancer survivors, raise awareness about steps we can take to reduce our risk of getting breast cancer, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society fight the disease with breast cancer research, information and services, and access to mammograms for women who need ...them in Leon county. Since Making Strides began 20 years ago, breast cancer death rates have declined more than 32 percent.

We are making history, and you have the opportunity to be involved in your community." (MSABC)

We are so excited for this event, and can't wait to see you there!

Fighting Fanconi Anemia alongside Kidz1stFund!

All football season long we are raising awareness, and money for Kidz1stFund!


"Jimbo and Candi Fisher have worked closely with several children's charities in the past, but when they were told that their son Ethan had a rare blood disease called Fanconi anemia, their lives immediately changed. They wanted to know everything they could about the disease, but soon found that there wasn't much information available. That's when they knew they had to do something that would not only help their son, but also help the many others affected by Fanconi anemia." (Kidz1stFund)


Kidz1stFund was created to raise awareness and funds in support of research to fight Fanconi anemia, a rare but serious blood disease that affects thousands of children each year. New treatments are being developed, and breakthroughs are on the horizon, but defeating this illness will require the help of generous souls from every walk of life.


Want to know how you can help?


At each Friday Night Block Party, and outside of Doak S. Campbell Stadium for home football games, we will be there collecting donations that go straight to Kidz1stFund! Each donation that we receive we match!


Another way you can help is by joining the National Bone Marrow Donor Registry!


"Virtually every person with FA will require a bone marrow transplant, but sadly some may not find a suitable donor. To remedy this unfortunate situation, join the National Marrow Donor Registry to determine if you are a match for any of the thousands of people whose lives depend on a bone marrow transplant. Visit Be The Match at www.marrow.org to find out how you can help." (Kidz1stFund)

Join us in the fight against Fanconi Anemia and say "I FIGHT FANCONI!"

Cram the Van!

School is just around the corner! This month we are teaming up with The Early Coalition of the Big Bend Region  for Cram the Van! We are asking everyone to stop by and donate school supplies, and children's books! Five items will earn you a $25 dollar off your next service.

 

The Early Learning Coalition is responsible for the administration of School Readiness, and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten programs. The ELC serves Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, and Wakulla county. "The Board and staff have strived to provide a holistic service delivery system that is responsive to needs of families and communities while maintaining effective and efficient business practices supporting the following primary goals: Children are ready for success when they enter school; and Families have access to the quality child care services and assistance they need." (The Early Coalition of the Big Bend Region)

 

 Join us in helping the ELC make sure every child has the necessary tools, and supplies to prepare them for success in school!

Summer Storms and Staying Safe

The rain doesn't ever seem to go away during the summer and although it's usually only a light drizzle, big summer storms can cause floods, damage, power outages, and more. You can't avoid the rain, but you can take the necessary precautions to make sure you and your family stay safe! Don't let the storms ruin your summer.

Hazards present during and after a summer storm:

• Lightning associated with thunderstorms generates a variety of fire hazards. The power of lightning's electrical charge and intense heat can electrocute on contact, splitting trees and causing fires.
• Pools of water and even appliances can be electrically charged so never swim during a storm, and use all household appliances with caution. 
• Appliances that have been exposed to water can short and become a fire hazard.
• Assume all wires on the ground are electrically charged. This includes cable TV feeds.
• Be aware of and avoid downed utility lines. Report downed or damaged power lines to the utility company or emergency services.
• Have a licensed electrician check your home for damage.
• Before storms hit, unplug electrical appliances such as TVs, VCRs, microwave ovens, stereos and computers. Disconnect cables to your TV antenna, satellite dish or cable service. 
• If anyone in your household suffers an electric shock, call 911 or your local emergency medical service immediately. Even minor shocks can cause life-threatening conditions hours later, so it is important to seek medical attention. 
• If someone in your home depends on life-support equipment, move the individual to a safe facility to avoid the risk of an extended power outage. You also should have a back-up plan, such as a portable oxygen supply. Health care equipment suppliers can suggest preparations for such emergencies. 
• During the storm, stay away from windows, where flying debris can cause injury. Do not use the phone or run water during lightning storms. Do not stand in water. 
• Always use a flashlight - not a candle - for emergency lighting.

If a power outage is likely to last longer than a few hours, then those customers affected by the outage should follow these additional tips:

• Turn off your range, toaster oven, iron or other item that could cause a fire if you aren't home when the power comes back on. 
• Turn off your air conditioner and water heater to prevent system overloads when power is restored. These two appliances are big users of electricity, especially after they have been off for a while. Turn them on about 30 minutes after power has been restored.

Driving in the rain:

• Slow down! It takes longer to stop or adjust in wet weather.
• Stay toward the middle lanes - water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
• Maintain proper following distance.
• Drive in the tracks of a car ahead of you.
• Don't follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. 
• Be more alert when driving in wet or slippery conditions. Watch out for brake lights in front of you.
• Avoid using your brakes; if possible, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
• Turn your headlights on even in a light rain, or in gloomy, foggy or overcast conditions. Not only do they help you see the road, but they'll help other drivers see you. 
• Avoid off-road driving: it's hard to judge the actual depth of puddles and you can easily become stuck, even in an SUV.
• Never drive beyond the limits of visibility. At night rainy roads become especially treacherous. In rainy conditions pedestrians, livestock, and wildlife are extremely hard to spot and even harder to avoid.
• Never drive through moving water if you can't see the ground through it; your car could be swept off the road.
• When driving through a puddle of uncertain depth, go slow. If it's deeper than the bottom of your doors, turn around and find another route. Deep water can cause serious damage to a modern car's electrical system.
• If possible, stay off the road during heavy thunderstorms. Large flashes of lightning can temporarily blind and disorient drivers, and the accompanying high winds and heavy rain can create deadly driving conditions.

Fun things to do during a storm:

•  Learn to crochet or knit or cross-stitch.
• Paint something.
• Draw something.
•  Sculpt something.
•  Build a model ship, airplane, or rocket.
• Create and organize new photo albums.
• Create a scrapbook.
•  Hang some photographs on your walls.
• Take up sewing or craft a new sewing project.
•  Find some old white clothes and give them a tie-dye face lift.
• Write a song.
• Play an instrument
• Begin writing a novel
• Play a board game
• Read a book or magazine
• Put together a jigsaw puzzle
•  Play cards
• Do a crossword puzzle
• Play 20 Questions
• Play I Spy

The Pyramid Mission

Pyramids Mission
We exist to meet the needs of people
who are developmentally disabled.
We care about the people we serve, our employees, and each other.
We provide uncompromised service.
We believe in what we do.
We make a difference.

Pyramid is an organization located in Tallahassee that is dedicated to enriching the lives of those with severe disabilities. They use art to build excitement and meaning into their disabled student's lives. According to the International Art Therapy Organization, “art therapy encourages self-expression, self-discovery and emotional growth.”  That is exactly what Pyramid is doing; their program fosters an opportunity for students to feel a part of the Tallahassee community.

The  activities in the art program range depending on the students ability and preference. The program offers a variety of involvement from painting to the performing arts. Pyramids' musical group The Pyramid Players perform in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. The beautiful artwork created by the students can be seen across the state of Florida and even across state lines.  One is able to purchase paintings, jewelry, and pottery on their website: http://www.pyramidinc.org/gallery.htm. At Kia Autosport we have more than five beautiful paintings displayed in our office and waiting room.

Beyond the arts program Pyramid provides therapeutic repositioning, physical/nutritional and behavioral assistance, peer counseling, sensory integration, social and life-management skills training and a variety of educational classes designed to increase their independence.

Pyramid supplies an abundance of programs to improve the lives of severely disabled community members. Pyramid in a non-profit and has been supported by Medicaid before but it’s not always enough. A primary source of their support is through fundraising, partnerships with the university, and private businesses. Cue Kia Autosport and the Tallahassee community.

Together we can support a group that supports our community.

Throughout the month of March we will donate $50 for every car sold and we will be collecting donations at the dealership. As well March 30^th we will have a Pyramid Party with the students. It will be an eye opening- and awe inspiring experience that we invite you to join. 

“Pyramid’s programs are shaped by an innate belief in the abilities of the people we serve, by a commitment to individualized curricula and a holistic view of our students’ lives.”

How to Prepare for a Storm

Preparing for the Unavoidable Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

It’s summer time and the sun is shining! We hope you are enjoying the gorgeous weather and the afternoon showers, to cool you off! Unfortunately, along with the gorgeous summer months we have to be prepared for the horrid tropical storms and the chance of dealing with hurricanes/tornadoes.  Even if they don’t hit Tallahassee, you could be traveling and end up in a city where they do hit. The Atlantic hurricane season is officially from June 1^st to November 30^Th. There is nothing magical in these dates, and hurricanes have occurred outside of these six months, but these dates were selected to encompass over 97% of tropical activity. We want everyone to be safe, and prepared for these storms ahead of time.

 Ways to make sure you’re prepared for Hurricane/Storm season:

v  Be Informed

o   Stay updated with the news via TV, radio, newspaper, or Internet and be sure to keep watch on the exact path of the hurricane/storm. The hurricane could take a turn at any time so staying updated is very important.

v  Plan and Know the Escape/Evacuation Route

o   As a hurricane/tropical storm approaches, things may get pretty hectic. The roads may be packed with people doing last minute preparations. It's going to be tough getting through traffic when you really don't know where you're going. Be prepared ahead of time. Study the evacuation route in your area. Make sure everyone in your family knows the route. Visit the National

v  Protect Your Home

o   The wind bands during a hurricane or a tropical storm winds can get very strong. If necessary, be sure to board up your windows. Also, pick up lawn furniture, garden tools, or any other heavy objects in your yard. When the winds pick up, these items could be flying around damaging your home or killing someone.

v  Fill Up Your Gas Tanks

o   As the hurricane or storm passes through, there could be many power outages and gas shortages. Getting a full tank along with a spare gas can is very important. It may be a day, two days, or even a week for everything to start coming back again.

v  Water, Water, Water!

o   Water is an essential. After a storm, the water supply might be down. Keeping lots and lots of water available will help you and your family stay hydrated and cool, especially if the power might be out. It can get pretty hot and humid. Make sure you have enough to last you a couple weeks.

v  Battery Operated Radios, Extra Batteries, Flashlights, First Aid Kits, and Extra Clothes

o   These are very important to have. They will aid you after a damaging storm. The battery operated radio will keep you informed while the flashlight will guide you in the darkened night. Extra clothes will always come in handy.

v  Lots of Non-Perishable Foods

o   Non-Perishable foods are foods that won't spoil even without refrigeration. If there are major damages in your area, most likely there won't be power, nor will the stores and restaurants be open. So keep a lot of non-perishable foods like canned foods and packaged foods available. Make sure that there is enough to last you a week or two.

v  Keep Extra Cash

o   The banks may be closed and the ATMs may be down. Even if the stores are open, their credit card machines may also be down, so keep some cash just in case you might need it.

v  Seek a Shelter

o   The newscasters will announce the available shelters in your area. If a hurricane is coming right over your path, I would strongly recommend you to seek shelter. Wanting to stay home to watch over your house is not worth risking your life. Even if your home is damage, at least you and your family will be safe.

Stay safe this summer and make sure to be prepared for whatever comes your way. Don’t mess around with storms or hurricanes, they’re very dangerous and can cause a lot of damage. We hope everyone has safe travels and an awesome summer. Remember, we wanna see ya in a KIA!

Is It Time For an Oil Change?

Reasons Why Getting an Oil Change is Important

1.       It keeps your car in great condition and proper running order

2.       They are relatively inexpensive and is not a monthly procedure

3.       By getting your oil changed on a regular basis, you will not only improve the life of your car’s engine, but you will also allow your car to maximize the horsepower it puts on the road

4.       Not changing your oil often enough can cause significant damage to your engine

5.       By not having enough oil or by using oil that has outlived its usefulness (is filled with dirt or has low viscosity), you run the risk of allowing parts to not work as efficiently as they possibly could.

6.       Not getting an oil change can cause parts of the car to stop working, and the engine could simply stop working or actually explode if enough parts refuse to work.

7.       The number one reason for engine failure is wear and tear that is caused by an increase in viscosity, which means the oil becomes thick and sticky, like mud.

Even though we all like to put off getting an oil change, as you can see it is very important to get one around every 3,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on your manufacturer’s recommendations. Needless to say don’t put off getting an oil change any longer, the life of your car will decrease and you will encounter more expensive problems with other parts of your vehicle.

Come get an oil change today here at Kia Autosport! We will make sure your car is running in proper order, and will get it back to you in no time! Remember, we wanna see ya in a KIA!  

Are You Ready For Some Football?!

Here at Kia Autosport we are getting really excited for football season!! We are planning the first Downtown Get Down Block Party and can't wait to see how many Seminoles fans come out! The first block party is going to be held on Friday, Septemeber 2nd. Country music star Justin Moore will have a free concert at Kleman Plaza. He's known for his current single "If Heaven Weren't So Far Away". There will be many more exciting block parties and tailgates to come as football season starts up! We will keep you posted on future block parties, tailgates and events here on our blog, on our Facebook and our Twitter!

Let's Go Noles!

What is everyone most looking forward to as the 2011 College Football Season approaches?

http://www.wctv.tv/sports/headlines/Justin_Moore_Headlines_Kickoff_Weekend_126225823.html

Whale of a Sale

We are so excited to announce our partnership with the Tallahassee Junior League. We are one of their proud sponsors for the 2011 Whale of a Sale!

The Whale of a Sale what some may call a garage sale; it features gently used, quality merchandise at prices.We hear that the day of the sale is a sight to see within itself. Outside of the sale will be our first Tent Sale of 2011! We will have tons of cars and our salesteam to help customers out at the sale. The actual sale starts at 8am and goes to 3pm at the former Goody's location in the Tallahassee Mall.



The reason We, at Kia Autosport of Tallahassee, have chosen to sponsor this event is that all the money raised flows back to the community through the Junior Leagues various charities. The Junior League focuses on children and families throughout Tallahassee. From Operation Prom Dress, Fostering Hope, Kids Boutique, and Kids in the Kitchen; we share in The Junior League's dedication to serving a community.

As if the sale, within itself, is not exciting, there is a pre-party THIS Friday from 6-10pm at the same location as Saturday's sale. The tickets to this are $25.00 day of, and the party features food and drinks catered by The University Club of Tallahassee, a live auction, entertainment, and of course view our 2011 Kia Lineup! For tickets and more information please visit www.jltallahassee.org.

Information for both events are posted on our Facebook Page!

Has It Really Been A Year Already?

It is that time again...Launch Party!

We are so excited for our 2011 Launch Party that is happening THIS Thursday at 6pm!

We are hosting Piggy's BBQ, the local radio stations, AND Boyd and Woody Hayes!

There will be FREE dinner, LIVE entertainment, and a chance to WIN some great prices!!

Last but not least, Wolf 103.1 will be raffling off George Strait and Reba McEntire Tickets!

We are so glad to have an amazing inventory on our lot, and we want all of our readers to come down and help us launch our 2011 vehicles!!

Look forward to seeing you all out here; for more information see our facebook page event!

The 2011 Kia Optima is here!!!!

Talk about a change...the 2011 Kia Optima has quickly become one of our favorite vehicles around the dealership. For those who have driven it, no one can deny the amount of horse power this model pocesses. I found a review in the LA Times, and I do not know if I agree with their assessment of the seat cushions, but I wanted to share a review.

Stay tuned for next week, there will be a guest blogger who shares their experience with the 2011 Kia Optima.

2011 Kia Optima drives toward top of its class

From Georgia comes Kia's latest ride

From Georgia comes Kia's latest ride

By Dave Hodges
DEMOCRAT BUSINESS EDITOR

January 30, 2010

Bathed in floodlights and adorned with red, white and blue balloons, the car appeared to have celebrity status even before you could get close enough to learn the whole story.

Melanie Lee, general manager of Kia AutoSport on West Tennessee Street, had the open house Thursday night to get that word out. The shiny 2011 Sorrento in "white sand beige" and leather seats came not from South Korea but West Point, Ga.
There, Kia Motors America invested $1 billion at the 2,200-acre site to build a plant that will turn out up to 300,000 vehicles a year, Lee said.
She is particularly excited about the Georgia product — her family also owns the Kia dealerships in Albany and Columbus. Having product made practically in their backyard is no doubt a source of pride and of interest to potential customers as well.
"I know having a vehicle manufactured in the United States will be huge," Lee said, adding that car shoppers often tell her they'd consider a Kia along with the American makes if it, too, were a domestic product.

Kia's California and Michigan centers are devoted to automotive design and research. West Point is the first production facility here, and it has generated about 2,500 jobs, plus another 7,500 for suppliers. Lee says two more models will be produced there as output grows.
For 2009, Kia reported its 15th consecutive year of increased U.S. market share, up 46 percent over 2008. Lee looks ahead with optimism. "We are very positive. We had a great January," she said. "Customers are putting us on their shopping list more and more these days, which is exciting to us."

A few feet from the Sorrento was a bright red Kia Soul, the sporty model that you may have seen four hamsters riding around in on TV. Lee says with a grin that Kia's Super Bowl commercial will follow that same theme, though she wouldn't divulge who'll be driving.
Guess we'll have to watch and find out.

Dave Hodges
Business Editor