The Faces of Southbank Dodge - Meet Mat "The Ram Man" Pigeon

The Southbank Dodge family is made up of many different faces.  Every person plays an integral part in forming our team; a team that strives to deliver each customer with one hundred percent satisfaction.  

Mat Pigeon has been part of the Southbank family for over three years and plays a crucial role in Southbank's Financial Services Department.  Southbank Blogger sat down with Mat to discuss his role at Southbank and what he hopes he is passing down to Southbank customers.

Southbank Blogger: Good afternoon Mat!  Could you please tell our readers a little about yourself?

Mat Pigeon: Well, my name is Mathieu Pigeon a.k.a "the Ram Man".  I have been at Southbank for a little over three years.  I am fully bilingual and a fishing fanatic.

Mat and his Dodge Ram

Southbank Blogger: How did you come to get the nickname "the Ram Man"?

Mat Pigeon: I am the proud owner of a 2012 Dodge Ram Laramie Hemi.  Right after I purchased it, my co workers started calling me "the Ram Man" and it stuck.  

Southbank Blogger: Could you explain what your role as Finance Services Manager entails?

Mat Pigeon: Of course.  Apart from myself, I have my three other colleagues who comprise the financial services department.  Our responsibility is to guide Southbank customers through the purchase of their new vehicle.  Whether it is questions with financing, which bank to use, licensing, insurance or protection options, we are the go to people.  I like to think we take all of the headache out of purchasing a new vehicle.  

Southbank Blogger: What do you like most about your job?

Mat Pigeon:  I am a people person.  My job allows me the opportunity to meet and interact with new people on a daily basis.  I have met so many different people, from all over the world.  Every day I go to work, I know it will not be the same as yesterday, which keeps me challenged.  

Southbank Blogger: What do you think sets the Southbank Finance Department apart from other finance department in the city?

Mat Pigeon: Good question.  I believe that because Southbank is the largest volume dealer in Ottawa, it allows us the opportunity to form great relationships.  The Southbank finance department has over time, established a solid relationship with nine major financial institutions, which allows us the flexibility to get all of our customers exactly what they want.    We have an amazing team, which also sets us apart, along with a great support staff, which allows us to go above and beyond what any other finance department could.

Southbank Blogger: What do you hope customers leave Southbank feeling?

Mat Pigeon: I hope that every customer leaves the finance department feeling that I gave them 100%.  If they leave happy, I did my job.

Peter's Top 10 Summer Vehicle Maintenance Tips

The summer weather has finally come to Ottawa!  That means, patio season has arrived, time spent by the pool and Sens playoff hockey!  What summer time also means is, it is time to prep your vehicle for the gruelling temperatures that Ottawa can climb to during this beloved time. 

Peter Lafrance, Southbank Service Manager, has prepared his top ten list of recommended summer maintenance tips for your vehicle to follow before you hit the open road. Here they are:

1. Check your tires - Peter stresses that tires are one of the most overlooked parts of your vehicle.  Under or overinflated tires can pose a serious risk to you as driver, your passengers and fellow drivers on the road. 
2. Change your oil and oil filter - Peter recommends that you change your oil and oil filter every 5000kms.  The oil in your vehicle should appear to be a brownish yellow colour on the dipstick if it is clean.  If the oil is dark, with dirt and grime in it, Peter says it is definitely time for an oil change.  
3. De-Winterize your vehicle - Peter says first thing is first - remove your winter tires!  Second, book a detailing appointment with Southbank to make sure your vehicle is properly cleaned, including the very crucial area of the undercarriage of the vehicle.  Due to Ottawa's horrible winter season, the gunk, grime and salt of old man winter can get stuck in your under carriage and will eat away at the metal.  
4. Maintain the hoses and belts of your vehicle - Hoses and belts are crucial components to your vehicle.  If your vehicle's belts snap or its hoses crack, your radiator will soon over heat and that will mean that you will be stranded on the side of the road.
5. Change your vehicle's air filter - Peter says if you are looking for a quick way to increase your gas mileage, change your filter.  This can easily improve your gas mileage as much as ten percent.  Debris, salt and gravel from winter driving can become lodged in the filter, causing it to become inefficient, so if you are planning a road trip, make sure you check your filter.
   
6. Check your wind shield wipers - During the winter, your wind shield wipers battle snow, ice, freezing temperatures and salt.  Although they can come out of the winter season intact, they may be in bad shape.  Freezing temperatures can cause them to crack and the rubber to tear, making it impossible to protect you from those summer showers.  Peter says it is always a smart decision to change your wind shield wipers, as it is a cost effective way to enhance the safety of your vehicle. 
7. Maintain your brakes - Peter states that because of the huge importance brakes play to the safety of you and your passengers whilst in your vehicle, it is imperative that you regularly maintain them.  If your brakes are too soft, or too resistant, or creating a loud screeching noise, Peter says it is time for a check up.  
8. Check your coolant and radiator - Peter recommends that if you have not had your radiator flushed and new coolant added to your vehicle recently, this is time.  While we sit in our vehicles in the heat, during the endless Ottawa traffic that we all know and love, pressure is being put on our vehicle's radiator to maintain its optimal temperature.  By flushing the radiator and adding new coolant, Peter says you are reducing the strain the heat is putting on your vehicle.
   
9. Maintain your vehicle's air conditioning - It's a hot summer day and you and your loved ones have hit the road for a mini summer vacation.  Two hours in and your air conditioning stops working, leaving you exposed to the unbearable heat.  Peter recommends that if your vehicle is having a difficult maintaining a cool temperature, bring it in to Southbank to have us look at it, just to make sure you will not be left stuck in the heat.
10. Drive Safe! - Peter says that the most important thing to remember about your vehicle, whether it be in the summer or winter months is to drive safe.  Always maintain your vehicle, make sure all passengers wear their seatbelts and if you are planning on attending a summer get together, make sure you have a designated driver.  

From Peter Lafrance and the rest of the Southbank Family, we wish you and your loved ones a very happy summer season.  Drive safe and have fun!

Southbank Is Proud to Introduce Our New Service Manager: Peter Lafrance

At Southbank, we believe we are only as strong as our staff.  We consider ourselves to be a family; we celebrate each other's successes and stand by each other during our tribulations.    It is because of this that we are proud to introduce to you: Peter Lafrance, Southbank's new Service Manager.  I sat down with Peter to talk to him about his new role at Southbank and what he believes are the core values that build and maintain a strong Service Department.

Peter Lafrance, Southbank Service Mgr

Southbank Blogger: Good morning Peter.  Can you please tell us how long you have been with Southbank Dodge?

Peter Lafrance: I have worked at Southbank Dodge for eleven years.  I began my career as a technician and from there was promoted to Shop Foreman and then to Assistant Service Manager, before beginning my new role as Service Manager.  Eleven years has certainly flown by and I am excited what the next eleven have in store for me at Southbank.

Southbank Blogger: Peter, what do you think is the most important duty of a Service Manager?

Peter Lafrance: I believe the most important role of a Service Manager is to make sure that all of the service staff, from advisor's to technicians work together as a team with the rest of the Southbank staff in the pursuit of one common goal: to ensure that the Southbank customer always comes first and is satisfied with the service from the moment they enter the drive-thru until they drive off with their vehicle.  

Southbank Blogger: Peter, what do you believe sets the Southbank Service Department apart from other service departments in Ottawa and the surrounding communities? 

Peter Lafrance: Our service department is set apart from other service departments in the city for a number of reasons and it is difficult to just pick one.  I believe an important factor that sets us apart from other service departments is my staff`s loyalty to Southbank.  A large number of my team members have been here for over thirty years and I believe this is a testament to the dedication each customer will receive when they come to the Southbank Service Department.   Another important factor is in the way that any service staff member is willing to work as a team for Southbank as a whole, which in turn transcends to the customer.  Over my eleven years here, that is one of the greatest things I have seen, it does not matter if you are from service, sales or parts, you are willing to help any customer or team member.  

Southbank Blogger: What do you hope customers leave the Southbank Service Department feeling?

Peter Lafrance: I hope that every customer that leaves Southbank feels that they are part of the Southbank family.  From the first day I started, I felt that Southbank was different and I hope that is carried onto the customer.  I hope that each customer leaves satisfied with every step and aspect of their visit to Southbank Service.

Southbank Blogger: Peter, what are three things that you would like to communicate to Southbank Service customers? 

Peter Lafrance: One, would be to make sure every customer is happy with their visit to Southbank and if for some reason, they are not, please tell us how we can make you happy.

Two, is for our customers to know that the entire Southbank staff works as a team.  I must stress this.  We do not draw departmental lines.  Every Southbank staff member is here to ensure the customer`s complete satisfaction, no matter if you are a service, parts or sales customer, you are part of the Southbank family and we are here to serve you.

Three would have to be that as Service Manager, my door is always open to any Southbank customer.  My job is to make sure every customer is happy with their Southbank experience.  I want to get to know the people that allow Southbank to continue to succeed.  Without you, there would be no Southbank.  We owe it to you.  

Please come in to see Peter and the rest of the Southbank team and see for yourself what makes Southbank different.  

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel Stands Tall Amongst Its Competitors

If you are like me, you are eagerly counting down the days until the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesels grace our lots.  We are at sixty days and counting...

For those who doubt the ability of the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit 4x4 EcoDiesel, Motor Trend recently put it up against three other competitors: The Prsche Cayenne Diesel,  the Volkswagen Touareg TDI and the Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTec.  As you can tell, the Grand Cherokee was in good company amongst its competitors; all four vehicles possess qualities that make them stand out amongst the other competitors in the market.

And how did the Jeep Grand Cherokee stand up to the competition?  Motor Trend Magazine    states, ``you might as well call this one your bestie.  Your best friend gets you in every way and isn`t judgemental.  You trust this person.  You`d also trust our Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel.`  

Motor Trend acknowledged that the Grand Cherokee was the only vehicle amongst its competitors to have true four-wheel drive and still possess the off-road capability that made Jeep the brand it is today.  The interior and its features were noted to be one of the most comfortable for both the driver and passengers.  The new wood trim, classy colour schemes and easy accessibility.  Motor Trend Critics found that the `Jeep held its own against the premium German marques just fine.`

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Is Here

"The all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee will be the benchmark for mid-size SUVs..."  that is how confident Mike Manley, President and CEO of Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC is of the capability and performance of the new Jeep Cherokee.  

The 2014 Cherokee had its unveiling at the 2013 New York International Auto Show (NYAS) and immediately set off a fire storm in newspapers, blogs and social media across North America.  With its debut, the Cherokee brings with it not only the dependability of the Jeep brand, but for the first time a nine-speed automatic transmission.  Fuel economy being on every consumer's mind, the 2014 Cherokee has made an estimated 45 percent fuel economy improvement over its outgoing sister - the Jeep Liberty.  

Not only does the Cherokee impress with its sleek new design and fuel economy improvements, but the 2014 Cherokee is the first mid-size SUV to feature rear-axle disconnect.  This feature results in reduced energy loss when the Jeep's 4x4 is not required; which in turn will improve the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.  Other new features that are considered "firsts" in the 2014 Cherokee are a nine-speed automatic transmission, a 3.2 Pentastar VVT V6 engine and an estimated 6.3L/100km (45 mpg) highway fuel economy, along with ten standard air bags to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers.

The design of the 2014 Cherokee has pushed the Jeep brand into the next era of midsized SUVs, whilst staying true to the bones of what has made Jeep one of the most recognizable brands in automotive history.  

The Cherokee was built in the spirit of the Jeep Brand - there is no where a Jeep cannot take you.  

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!