The Faces of the Southbank Service Department

The Southbank Service Department has been an institution in Ottawa for over 30 years.  It has evolved with the changing times and technology, but the principal of customer service and Southbank's loyal team members have remained the same.

Many of the original Southbank Service employees who began the department are still here today.  

Rick Cain has been serving Southbank customers for over thirty years and has become an irreplaceable force to us.  

Dean Martin has been one of the first faces Southbank Service customers see for over eight years.  His calm demeanour and east coast humor are what make every one's day at Southbank.

Peter Courville has been shuttling customers to and from Southbank for over twenty five years.  His kindness and concern for both staff and customers is something that is counted upon.  

Dave Baerg, Southbank's resident diesel specialist has been with us for close to twenty years.  He is the glue that holds Southbank together and just celebrated his 60th birthday.  Dave is the voice of Southbank, encourages everyone to give to those less fortunate and always puts a little country into every one's step.  

These are just a few of the people that make up the Southbank Service Department. One thing that can always be counted upon is that if you want to have some fun at Southbank, go to the Service Department.  Whether they are in friendly competition for the weekly Production Award, or pulling a prank on a colleague, there are always laughs to be had. 

Walid Hasbini and Johnny Musca, winners of the Production Award

Paul Pickard and Robert Rochon, former winners of the Production Award

Things To Consider When Purchasing A Used Vehicle

Purchasing a new vehicle is a big decision, comprised of many components to consider before taking that leap.  This is even more true when you are purchasing a used vehicle, or as I like to call them, a previously loved vehicle.  If you or a loved one is currently in the market for a previously loved vehicle, there are a few thins that you should be aware of that will protect yourself and your wallet.

1. Make sure that the dealer you are shopping at is a member of the UCDA - Used Car Dealers Association.  The UCDA represents 4600 dealers in Ontario, which accounts for about 70% of the active participants in the used car market of Ontario. 
2. If the dealer you are shopping at is not a member of the UCDA, you could potentially be at risk to falling into the hands of curbsiders.  Beware of curbsiders!
•   A curbsider is defined as, "one who is in the business of offering vehicles to the public for the primary purpose of making a profit, but behaves as if he or she is selling their own personal vehicle."  In the first place, a curbsider is an individual who routinely sells vehicles but is not registered under the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act. The curbsider usually offers the "family car" straight from their house or residence.  
• Secondly, a curbsider is defined as one who acts as if he or she is a private individual but is really registered under the Motor Vehicle Dealers Act. Often these people have used false information to become registered and this allows them to purchase vehicles from other dealers or at auctions.
3. It is always crucial to inquire about the dealer's inspection process.  If you are shopping at an established dealer, with a good reputation, they usually will go above and beyond the provincially mandated safety standards.
   
4. Make sure there are no hidden fees.  The Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council, or OMVIC is charged with regulating the motor vehicle industry of Ontario and sets very specific pricing guidelines.  
5. Make sure that before you purchase your previously loved vehicle, you ask to see a UCDA Auto Check, or Car Proof.  Dealers are mandated to show you this report, which contains the following information: 

• Cross Canada Registration Status
• If the vehicle has been imported from the US
• If the vehicle is reported stolen
•  Accident information in dollar amount

 Finally, make sure you love the vehicle you are purchasing!  

The Faces of Southbank

Everyone knows that the majority of the time, people spend more time at work than they do with their families at home.  That is the case at Southbank.  This is why we call ourselves: The Southbank Family, because we are, simply put, a family.  We may not agree with each other all the time, or share the same personality traits or likes and dislikes, but we come together every day to make the best of Southbank. 

 

In visiting Southbank, you will notice that we have a very eclectic staff.  One that spans the globe and that could fill hundreds of books with their personal stories.  The shared differences is what makes Southbank an amazing place to work. 

 

Here are some Southbank Stories:

 

Stanford Noble

 

Stan is a very familiar face to the staff and long time customers of Southbank.  He began working at Southbank as a sales representative in 1991 and has not looked back since.  Stan hails from Jamaica and is affectionately known as "Agent 35" to the Southbank staff.  His professional demeanor, dapper style and caring attitude have made him irreplaceable to Southbank. Stan spearheads the Southbank Social Committee along with Southbank's involvement in many organizations, including The Rideau Carleton Race Track.  He is the go to Southbank photographer and handy man.   Stan has traveled the world and has many a story up his sleeve, but he says his heart will always be in Jamaica and Southbank of course.

 

Gustavo Aliaga

 

 

Gustavo, or Gus as he is known at Southbank, has been with Southbank as a sales representative for nine years.  Gus hails from Peru and has proven to be a great asset to Southbank's Spanish speaking community.  Gustavo is a father figure to the younger members of Southbank's sales team.  You can always catch him fixing some one's tie, or giving them a few styling tips.  Gus is famous for his dance moves.  Every year at the Southbank Christmas party, he never ceases to amaze with his Latin dance skills and boundless amounts of energy.  Gus is a proud grandfather to a beautiful little girl and is the only grandfather we know who still does 100 push ups a day.  His coined phrases "It's unbelievable" and "Amazing!" are what bring life into the Southbank showroom.  And if you have any doubt about Gus' push up abilities, we have the video below to prove it!  Go to: http://www.facebook.com/southbanknation to see it!

 

 

Norm Haggar

 

 

Norm has been with Southbank since the tender age of twelve.  Now maybe that could be a slight exaggeration, however, Norm has been with Southbank for over twenty four years and is a Southbank lifer.  Norm began in the Southbank Service department as a coop student, a program that Southbank still participates in to this day, and rose through the ranks.  From student, to mechanic, to shop foreman, to service manager, Norm has seen and done it all.  Southbank customers have never shown more loyalty than to Norm and he feels privileged to have grown with his customers and their families.  After taking six months off to travel the world and work on his tan, Norm is back and in the sales department trying something new!  The Southbank family is happy to finally have him back and jealous of his tan.  



 



 

 



The Most Frequently Asked Questions of the Southbank Service Department

The Southbank Service Department has established itself as a leader in the city of Ottawa, providing the best care for our customer's vehicles.  Our trained technicians continually educate themselves to improve their knowledge and skills, so that Southbank customers can reap the benefits. 

 

To most people, taking your vehicle in for servicing can be a daunting task.  We the general population are not trained technicians, nor do we have any kind of knowledge on the inner workings of our vehicle.  That is why Southbank Nation asked Peter Lafrance,  a ten year Southbank employee and Shop Foreman of the Southbank Service Department to list the benefits of the top three services.

 

 

Wheel Alignment

1- Better gas mileage.  When the wheels are aligned there is less rolling resistance.
2- Better mileage out of your tires, misaligned wheels will wear tires prematurely.
3- Keeps your tire warranties.
4- Less wear on other part's (tie rods/ball joints).
5- Easier to drive, meaning your vehicle will not pull to one side or the other, or wander when driving.  This also maintains the safety of the driver and passengers in the vehicle.
Peter recommends wheel at least once a year, depending on your driving conditions.

 

Tire Rotation

1- Longer tire life, which in turn will save  you money on tires.

2- Better fuel economy, due to better handling and steering.
3- Better performance and a better driving experience. Your tires are worn evenly.
Peter recommends a tire rotation every 10,000 to 12,000 km's or roughly every second oil change.

Fuel System Cleaning Benefits                               
1-Better fuel economy
2-Starts easier
3-Better acceleration
4-All around smoother, cleaner running vehicle
Peter recommends a fuel system cleaning every 30 to 36,000 km's.  Peter also stresses that it also really does depend on your driving conditions; long idle times and city driving can change these intervals.

Peter Lafrance, being awarded the Bernard Frappier Southbank Service Award

 

So the next time you are in for service, make sure you say hi to Peter! 

He and the rest of the Southbank Service Team will be waiting for you!

 

 

 



Jeep and Dodge Are Named in Forbes Top 15 Least Expensive Vehicles to Insure

When purchasing a vehicle, there are so many things to consider before making that final selection.  Aside from choosing the color you like best or the options that are best suited to your lifestyle, there is one thing that is always at the top of a consumer's mind: Insurance.

 

Insurance is a necessity, but can sometimes prove a challenge to some consumer's budget.  It is that extra cost that must be configured into the monthly car payment.  And sometimes it can be the deciding factor between the consumer purchasing the vehicle they want, or the vehicle they can afford.

 

This is where the Jeep and Dodge brands come in.  Forbes Magazine just released their list of the 15 Least Expensive Vehicles to Insure.  The Jeep and Dodge brand took an amazing four spots out of fifteen, more than any other automotive brand.

 

Jeep

 

The Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Compass

The Jeep Patriot

 

Dodge

 

The Dodge Grand Caravan

So when considering your next vehicle purchase, remember to consider Jeep and Dodge.  Not only would you get an amazing vehicle, but also, a little extra money in your pocket!

 



2013 Ram Wins Motor Trend Truck of the Year



 

 

When you dedicate yourself to continually raising the bar, great things happen. The 2013 Ram was built on a legendary history of durability and capability.  The 2013 Ram 1500 sets a new standard for excellence, which in turn has earned the prestigious title of 2013 Motor Trend Truck of the Year. 

 

 

Judges from Motor Trend were impressed with not only the new engine and fuel economy of the 2013 Ram, but with the Ram's air suspension system, which allows Ram drivers to vary the truck's ride and handling and, with a setting that lowers the truck's ride height on the highway, contributes to additional gains in fuel efficiency.   

 

 

With best-in-class fuel efficiency of up to 36 mpg, class-leading, storage solutions like RamBox, and available segment-exclusive technologies including Active Grille Shutters, 4-corner Air Suspension, and 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, the 2013 Ram 1500 redefines what a consumer should expect in a pickup. The Ram is here to stay.               

                       

Why My Car Is The Dodge Dart

 

 When Dodge unveiled the all new 2013 Dodge Dart, they resurrected a giant of the automotive industry.   The 2013 Dodge Dart is based off of the platform used in Alfa Romeo Giulietta and offers consumer's six different model choices and twelve different paint colours to choose from.  The Dart offers its drivers class leading technology and up to 4.8L / 100 KM.  The Dodge Dart far surpasses in appearance, options, fuel economy and in the overall driving experience and leaves the competition in the dust.

While facts and figures are great to read, it is much better to hear an individuals opinion of the Dodge Dart and this is what we have done for you, our blog readers.  Decio Menezes, the Internet Manager of Southbank chose to purchase a Dodge Dart as soon as they were first delivered to our lot.  He has never looked back since.  Below,  you will find an interview with Decio, describing why his car is the Dart. 

 

 

 

 

Valerie: Decio, what do you love most about the Dodge Dart?

 

Decio: Honestly, I love the drive, it is a really fun car to drive.  The 1.4 turbo engine meant I did not have to sacrifice my love of driving by purchasing the Dart, if anything, it made it better.

 

Valerie: How does the Dodge Dart accommodate your lifestyle?

 

Decio: The Dart is great for me.  I live in the suburbs, with my girlfriend and my dog.  I get 580 KM per tank in city driving, to me that is unheard of.  There is tons of storage space, I can easily fit all of my gym equipment and hockey bag in the trunk and the extra front seat storage compartments are a real nice bonus to have. 

 

Valerie: How do you think the Dodge Dart compares to its other competitors currently out in the market?

 

Decio: Frankly, there is no competition.  The design and options of the Dart are far superior to the Hyundai Elantra or Chevrolet Cruze.  The Dart is a classic, you can't compare a classic.

 

Valerie: What was the deciding factor in your decision to purchase the Dart?

 

Decio: I am a numbers guy, so it came down to the price.  I paid just over $22 000 for my Dart and when I compared what I was spending, to what I was getting, there was no doubt in my mind.  It makes sense.  Anyone would be crazy not to purchase the Dart.

 

Valerie: What would you like to tell consumers who are currently considering purchasing a Dodge Dart?

 

Decio: I would tell them to go for it and that they will not be disappointed.  I would suggest anyone who is interested to come and see me and to talk to me about the Dart.  I have not regretted my decision and will be a Dart driver for a long time coming. 

 



Tis the Season - The Southbank Dodge Pot Luck

 

Christmas is just around the corner, with only 28 more days and the Southbank staff is getting into the spirit of this festive season.  Our Christmas tree was put up and decorated yesterday evening, by members of every department; Whilst it is not Rockefeller centre, we are quite proud of it. 

 

From left to right: Michael Leblanc, Mr. Jeep and Robert Lariviere

 

Today was not just any average Thursday, because it was Southbank's annual pot luck lunch.  Staff from all departments brought in their favorite dishes to share with their colleagues.  While the majority of staff brought in home made creations, our culinary challenged colleagues were not criticized... Well maybe just a little!   

 

We had dishes that brought us from our showroom to all over the globe, ranging from hummus, to Jamaican pattys, to the very original barbecued lasagna.  The highlight and award for most creative dish was awarded to Dave Baerg, our diesel specialist technician;  His Diesel Dave Venison Stew was a huge hit.

 

Hungry technicians

Thania Hamilton-Green setting up the desert table

 

Rick Cain barbecuing his home made lasagna

 

A panorama view of the festivities



Movember at Southbank Dodge

With the arrival of the month of November comes Movember!  For those of you not familiar, Movember is a movement that was started to raise awareness for prostate cancer.  Men are encouraged not to shave their beards or mustaches for the entire month of November.  This will serve as a visual reminder to the general public of how important early detection is to beating prostate cancer.

 

The Southbank Family is participating in honor of our fellow colleague: Winifred Edward, who is a prostate cancer survivor. 

 

Prostate Cancer Survivor -  Winifred Edward

 

Staff from all departments including: sales, service, parts and administration are participating.  Before pictures of clean shaven staff were taken, which will be followed by pictures being taken at the end of the month, featuring a much hairier staff. 

 

Several fund raising events are being held throughout the month to raise funds for prostate cancer research so the fight can continue.

 



 

 

From top to bottom: Mr. Gustavo Aliaga, Mr. Guy Parker, Mr Derek "Mr. Jeep" Shutron, all clean shaven.

The Bernard Frappier Southbank Service Award

Mr. Bernard "Bernie" Frappier



You can always count on one thing on Saturdays at Southbank; When the clock strikes 11:00AM, Bernard Frappier, affectionately known as Bernie to Southbank customers and staff, will begin setting up his hot dog station. 

Bernie has been a loyal customer of Southbank for over thirty years.  He bought his first vehicle on Christmas Eve 1975 and instantly became part of the Southbank Family.  When Bernie decided to retire, he became Southbank's Food and Beverage Manager and Bernie's Hot Dog Saturdays were born. 

Bernie epitomizes the qualities that we hope every Southbank employee possesses.  His kindnesses, joyful spirit, sense of humor and devotion to Southbank have been unwavering for over twenty years.  Bernie is always the first to offer a helping hand to someone, to ask how you are doing and to offer you a candy, because he says, you need to smile.  His “Bernie Dogs” have become an institution in themselves at Southbank on Saturdays, his words of wisdom are cherished and above all else, he is loved by the entire Southbank Staff.   

This year, and in the years to come, we would not only like to award long serving employees, but  to establish an award to recognize employees from all departments who epitomize Southbank Dodge in their day to day actions; regardless if they are new to our family, or have been here for twenty years.

The Southbank Social Committee has decided to name this award after Bernie who holds all of the qualities we  value at Southbank Dodge.

The first Bernard Frappier Southbank Service Award will be given out at our annual Christmas party.  The awards will be presented by none other than Bernie.

From the entire Southbank staff, we would like to say: "Thank you for all you do Bernie."

 

Best Car for Women Who Like Muscle Cars

Top Pick in Muscle Cars for Women – Dodge Challenger

Honestly, I just cannot get over how much I love the way the Dodge Challenger looks. It’s got enough of a retro throwback to make you want to break out the pin curls, but is packed with technological wonders, both under the hood and in the dash. The UConnect system lets you stay plugged in to your contacts and navigation, but also to your music, your devices, and your sanity. One of the main reasons I choose the Dodge Challenger as the top of the best muscle cars for women is because the Challenger gives you a wide spread of vehicles, depending on your preference for power. Starting with the SE gives you a V6 engine for bringing the heat, but you can trot your foxy self all the way up to the 392 SRT8 for a V8 Hemi engine that will leave them all in the dust. And I’ve never met a woman who doesn’t enjoy kicking a little in their faces every now and again.

Happy Holidays!

2012 Dodge Challenger 392 SRT8

According to MSN the 2010 Dodge Challenger 392 SRT8 is a Manly Machine.

You can't talk about Ford and Chevrolet muscle without mentioning Dodge, but this is far from a courtesy call. The Challenger SRT8 is Dodge's answer to the Mustang and Camaro, and with a 470-horsepower V8 engine, it's a firm retort. You won't be waiting for an automatic transmission to decide when to downshift, either; this one has a 6-speed manual transmission. And don't forget to tick the option box for the Green with Envy exterior paint (yes, it is the actual color name), which gets you two fat, black stripes along the top of the car.

Rick's Tips: Preparing your vehicle for winter driving.

Today Rick Cain is going to talk about preparing your vehicle for winter driving, where it is very important your vehicle is safe for your family and yourself.

All too often drivers neglect to do maintenance before winter arrives which could end up with a low battery, bad tires, bad brakes, bad wiper blades, all causing hazardous driving during the winter. I want to go over a few items here to show you how to prepare your vehicle for good driving in the winter months.

One of the easiest things to check, and one of the most important is your wiper blades. A worn wiper blade will cause streaking which could blur your vision while driving. You must also check the tips to make sure they are still in good shape. Most vehicle come with all season wiper blades. In the winter time, you may opt to install winter blades which are covered in rubber to stop freezing and streaking on the windshield and promote safe driving.

The next item we want to check on your vehicle is your battery. You want to have a good reliable battery with long cranking time for the cold weather. Make sure your terminals are clean and the level checked if available or applicable. It would be a good idea to have your battery checked by your technician to ensure you have enough cranking hours when it gets cold.

Your engine coolant should be clean and also good for approximately 45 degrees below 0. There are various types of anti-freeze recommended depending on the make of the vehicle. Ensure you have the right type of coolant for your car or truck. We recommend a coolant flush every 2 years to make sure your anti-freeze is efficient.

All seasons tires are great in the rain, during the summer months and even in the fall months. But for winter driving in Canada, you need snow tires. Snow tires are made of a different composition of rubber and they help grip in the colder weather. At 14 degrees Celsius, all seasons tires become very hard and they don’t grip the road as well as snow tires do. All seasons tires have on average 4 to 5 millimeters of treads. On snow tires, you get around 10 to 11 millimeters. More traction means more safety.

Southbank Dodge Chrysler Jeep is ready to prepare your vehicle for winter driving. We have a special package that includes changing your oil and filter, checking all fluid levels, checking brakes and tire as well as a wheel alignment if necessary. Contact Southbank Dodge Chrysler Jeep Service Department today at 613-731-1970 .

You can also watch the video on Preparing your vehicle for winter driving.

Rick Cain is a long time Service Manager at Southbank Dodge Chrysler Jeep.


Southbank Nation Blogs are part of the Southbank Nation Community with encompass Southbank Dodge Chrysler Jeep, Leisure Days Gatineau, and RMB Récréatif

What's new at Dodge 2012

According to MSN...

Like its parent company, Dodge has a new zeal for life. Take a look at last year's Charger, with its better-quality build and materials and sleeker design. Dodge hasn't announced any entirely new 2012 models; it has, however, revealed a few high-power variants of existing models to keep things interesting.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 All you need to know is this: 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The all-new 2012 Dodge Charger can now propel itself to 60 mph in the high four-second range and top out at 175 mph. Amazingly, it also nets a 25 percent increase in highway fuel economy. Other goodies for 2012 are a new adaptive suspension and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
Availability: Fall 2011

2012 Dodge Avenger R/T Unveiled at the 2011 New York International Auto Show, the 2012 Avenger R/T is the new top-of-the-line version of the recently redesigned Avenger model. Featuring a 283-horsepower engine and a thoroughly reworked suspension, the new trim is designed to breathe some driving excitement into the midsize sedan. Despite the added power, the acclaimed Pentastar V6 engine returns decent fuel-economy figures of 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway.
Availability: Fall 2011

2012 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 While the Challenger wasn't included on our list of redesigned models for last year, Dodge did introduce its maximum-performance 392 variant to the world in 2011. For 2012, the model carries over largely unchanged, meaning it still packs a mean punch from its 6.4-liter 470-horsepower V8 engine. The most significant change lies in the suspension, which is now an all-new 2-mode adaptive damping design.
Availability: Fall 2011

What's been Refreshed: Chrysler

According to MSN Chrysler is hard at work reinventing itself post-bankruptcy. We've already seen the fruit of that labor in the vastly improved quality of last year's all-new 200 and 300 models. For 2012, the 300 line is getting its tire-melting SRT8 variant. Other than that, however, Chrysler doesn't have much going on. Unfortunately, it appears that it may be another couple of years before the company's much-hyped Pentastar engine is fully breathing easy atop a bed of solid, high-quality products. 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 The latest 300 full-size sedan launched last year, and it was a vast improvement over the outgoing model. This year, we'll see the 300 in SRT8 trim, complete with snarling V8 engine and improved performance all around. With a stout 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, the 300 SRT8 will smoke its way to 60 mph in less than five seconds, on to a top speed of 175 mph. An all-new adaptive suspension will help the large sedan cope with its newfound power, while the obvious list of look-fast bits will signal the SRT8's intentions.

Should You Be Thinking About Winter Tires Already?

You may want to consider a new set or prepare for a long, tough winter drive.

Are you planning on getting through the winter on your car's all-season tires? Are your tires good enough to perform in winter driving conditions? Your life may depend on your answer. How much tread do they have left? If the tires have less than 4/32 tread depth left, you should consider a new set or prepare for a tough winter drive. Remember that with a two-ton vehicle, it is just four hand-sized contact patches that touch the road, provide the grip needed for accelerating, braking, and handling. That's not much keep you and your passengers safe, especially in the cold, with a glaze of ice.


If you want winter tires, don't wait — the retail season is in full swing right now. You might find yourself out of luck if you procrastinate until the first snow fall. We have great offers at Southbank Nation to help you find the right winter tires for your vehicle.

Here are some tips to guide you through the process:

All-season tires: all-season tires provide good all-around traction to handle dry, wet, and wintry conditions, but they tend not to be a master of any one condition. All-season tires are a good choice for modest winter conditions or when you can wait until the roads are plowed.

Winter tires: These tires are specially made for use in freezing temperatures and on snow and ice. Winter tires have a mountain and snowflake symbol on the sidewall indicating they meet challenging snow traction criteria. But like all-season tires, there is some compromise to consider, with so-so dry and wet grip and fast wear for many models. Consider winter tires if you have to drive in severe winter conditions.

Bottom line: Consider your winter tire needs now to be sure you can get the tires you want before the snow starts falling.

My trip to Chicago guess the mileage contest

Alright, time for a contest! This one is going to last a little over a week. Just to give you a quick run down, I went on vacation with my family (5 kids and my beautiful wife). We went to Chicago, Illinois and Fort Wayne, Indiana for my godson's wedding. I was driving in a Southbank Dodge Grand Caravan SE Stow'N'Go.

The contest is simple: Guess how many kms I did on this trip. The person with the closest answer will have the choice between a full car detailing (worth $150) or $1000 off the Grand Caravan I will be driving (It's a 2010 demo). Again, I will try to give as much details as possible so you can figure out how many KMs I am doing. You give your answer on our facebook page Southbanknation

Alright, let's get going!

Day 1

It's 6PM on a Sunday night and we just finished packing the van and are ready to roll. I am expecting to get to Chicago in one shot so the kids and wife can sleep most of the way and I (thank god) can listen to MY music. (First tip: We live in l’Escarpement Limbour in Gatineau).

The idea was to have diner on the way just so we feel on vacation. The only problems is that as soon as we left home, the kids started inquiring about diner... So we ended up at Swiss Chalet in Barr haven. LOL not even an hour done on the road.

Day 2

OK this time, we are rolling for good. The plan was to take the 402 and cross the border in Sarnia to avoid any possible delays in Detroit. So anyway, around 2-3 AM Olivier and I started talking about hockey and all the cities we have been through that host an OHL team. Guess what, I missed the exit for the 402 and decided to drive through Detroit. Well believe it or not, there was nobody at the border. We were literally the only vehicle in sight. "Passports please! Where are you going? Have a nice trip!" was all this nice Custom Agent asked us and back on the road we were.

I couldn`t dream of such a pleasant drive with 5 kids. They all had their laptops connected to kill some time and then they fell asleep for the rest of the trip. Can you believe that my Southbank 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan could keep 4 laptops running at the same time?

Now it is 7:30 (Central Time) and I am at the Chicago South Loop Hotel, of course our rooms weren`t ready so we decided to have breakfast at the Original Pancake House. It was not so attractive from the outside but since the hotel recommended it we just went. WOW!!! The crepes were phenomenal, the raspberry sauce was home made as was the orange juice. It was an expensive but worthy breakfast.

Ok, now we need to spend the day as our rooms won`t be ready until 3pm. Let`s go see the Museum of Science and Industry... This place is very nice. It is huge and lots to see; A real live tornado, a real opened Boeing 737, a real U-505 submarine and so much more. A must if you are in Chicago.

Now back at the hotel. I haven't slept in 26 hours. A nap before dinner. Again we had a taste for Italian (We are in Chicago...) Mart Anthony was recommended. After believing we were in the Bronx version of Chicago, we saw a corner restaurant where I believe the Great Great GrandSon of Al Capone would own. Again I said, it was recommended so let's go. Ok what is wrong with this city? This has to be one of the best Italian restaurant I ate in.

After a bit of a drive in the city which is beautiful at night btw, we went back to the hotel and fell asleep like babies...

Day 3

Tuesday, what a warm and humid day. Couldn't see much all day because of the fog. Anyway, I did some groceries on 12 street in the morning then went for the Shedd Aquarium. What an Aquarium. One of the best I have seen. Actually, the whole grounds where the Field Museum and Soldier Field (Home of the Chicago Bears)is just breathtaking. Chicago really has some great parks and structures.

Side note: If you ever come to Chicago, I urge you to buy the City Pass to avoid waiting lines, especially for the Shedd Aquarium, the most visited place in Chicago.

After a long visit, we came back to the hotel and ordered the famous Chicago Style Deep Dish pizza from Connie's pizza. This dish really lives up to his name.

Tonight we spend a the Navy Pier, also a major attraction. It is nice but all the restaurant and booths are ripping you off (9$ for a small sunday). The Ferris Wheel was worth it with the view of Chicago all lighted up at night. Now back to the hotel for a well deserved night of sleep.

Day 4

Last full day in Chicago and still a lot to do. We started off the morning by visiting the Chicago Art Institute. Beautiful building, awesome galleries, but definitely not a place for kids (BORING as they would describe it). Then off dropping the family at the Field Museum except me and Olivier. We couldn't come to Chicago without going to one of the oldest Ballpark still functional, the Wrigley Field. What a feeling to sit in this Ballpark. We witnessed the Cubs getting a baseball lesson by the Philadelphia Phillies, but just being there was something in itself. Could you believe that the stadium was almost full and it was 1:30PM? Don't people work in Chicago? Oh and BTW, I personally can confirm that the Wrigley Field has the best hot dogs in the whole world...

Ok, let's get out of here and grab the family. Time for a quick change and back downtown to visit Skydeck in the Willis Tower, the second tallest building in the world. The view is just amazing. You can have a 360 view of Chicago and even step in the glass booth where the floor is... a glass. Takes nerves but pretty cool feeling.

Last drive downtown Chicago, diner at Miller's Pub (Not bad) and back at the Hotel since we have to leave early in the morning.

Day 5

10AM, let’s go let’s go, we need to be in Fort Wayne by 1PM to drop off my youngest, Keliane, for the wedding rehearsal (she is play a big role at the wedding). Ok, traffic, wide convoy, construction, we arrived at 2 and had to drop Keliane directly at Baker Street restaurant as they had a pre-rehearsal lunch. The rest of us went to the Glenbrook Square Mall. After spending a few American dollars on clothing, we went to our hotel, the Marriott Courtyard Downtown and spent the rest of the night there. Lie, we had dinner with a few family members at Applebee’s on Clinton Street. Then back at the hotel again… this time, for the night!

Day 6

The wedding crew picked up Keliane at 8:30 AM, I went back to bed and woke much later (1PM), had lunch at the hotel and prepare for the wedding. We went to Lakeside Park for the Ceremony. What a beautiful place for a wedding ceremony. The grounds are breathtaking, but at 50 Celsius with humidity and in a black suit, we were kind of looking forward to go to the reception at the Masonic Temple.

Bottom line, a beautiful wedding. Everything was just perfect. And I am so proud of my little girl who fulfilled her task perfectly!

Day 7

Every good thing has an end… time to go back home.

We left around noon and took the 69 all the way to Port Huron. We had our first fast food meal in Imlay City (McDonalds). Beware if you come back to Canada through Port Huron, the Duty Free shops are off the highway. If you continue following the directions to Canada you will do as I did, miss it completely (what a shame).

The Custom Agent there was a nice as the other one: “Passports please. Where do you came from? Roll down the rear window please. Welcome back to Canada” and off we go. We stopped at Montana’s in Kingston for diner and arrived home around 2 AM Sunday morning.

Conclusion

It was an amazing trip. I had a lot of worries before we left driving so long with 5 kids. Everybody who saw us said that we were crazy. Well, au contraire, we all had a lot of fun and were all sad to come back home. One of the reason the drive was so pleasant is the fact that we had a Dodge Grand caravan Stow’N’Go. It is amazing how much room this vehicle has for luggage at the back and underneath the benches. I don’t think any other vehicle would have done as great as a job.

Now back to the CONTEST

I think I have given you enough details so you can figure out how many KMs I did on that trip. Be the closest and choose between a full detailing (a value of $150) or $1000 off the dodge caravan I was driving.

You can view the van at: http://www.southbank.ca/view/2010-Dodge-Grand-Caravan-3660

You have until Friday July 29 to give me your answers on our facebook page Southbanknation