November 2011 Calendar of Events

Waste Tire Collection

Friday, Nov. 4 and Saturday, Nov. 5

9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lincoln County Highway Department

219 Highway H

Lincoln County residents can recycle old tires at the Lincoln County Highway Department for no charge. Recyclers need proof of residency, such as a driver’s license. Tires must be free of dirt and debris, off the rim and no tires from commercial operations. For more info, call 636-528-7112.

Caregiving During The Holidays

Wednesday, Nov. 9

10 a.m.

Middendorf-Kredell Library

O’Fallon
If you are one of the millions of Americans that find themselves in the role of caregiver for a spouse or family member, you may often feel alone, overwhelmed and exhausted. Add to this the stress of the holiday season and you have a recipe for undermining your own health. Join a panel of service professionals for a Q &A session that will discuss important caregiver resources and tips to develop coping skills to tackle the stress of balancing caregiving duties with your other life activities. This seminar is sponsored by Progress West HealthCare Center. Call 636-344-2273 or log onto http://www.progresswesthealthcare.org to register.

Free

United We Stand: A Tribute of the United Service Organizations of World War II

Friday, Nov. 11, 8 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 12, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 13, 3 p.m.

St. Charles Community Campus, Social Sciences Building
The cast, crew and orchestra of The Metropolitan Broadcasting Company will recreate the patriotic radio shows of World War II. Enjoy the news, music, comedy and conversation of the war years from 1941 through 1944.
Adults $5; senior citizens, veterans and students $4; SCC students, faculty and staff free
Tickets are available online at http://www.stchastickets.com or by calling 636-922-8233.

Footloose

Thursday, Nov. 17-Saturday, November 19

8 p.m.

Troy Buchanan High School

The Choral and Drama Departments present the musical Footloose about a city kid who moves to a small town where rock 'n' roll and dancing have been banned, and his rebellious spirit shakes up the populace. Tickets are $11.50 and $6.50 for ages 6 and younger and can be purchased online.

Historic St. Charles Christmas Traditions

Opening Ceremony

11 a.m.

Friday, Nov. 25-Saturday, Dec. 24

Kister Park Gazebo

400 block of St. Main

Santa arrives by horse-drawn carriage, escorted by the Lewis and Clark Fife and Drum Corps and the Legends of Christmas. Festivities continue all day with caroling, vendors and Santa from around the world. The tree lighting will be held at 5 p.m. in Berthold Square. For detailed information and schedules, view the 2011 Festival Guide.

French Creole culture in Old Mines, Missouri comes alive with music, food, tradition at the La Fete De L’Automne Festival

What: La Fete De L’Automne Creole Festival, sponsored by the Old Mines Area Historical Society of Washington County
When: Sunday, October 2, 2011
Time: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Fertile/Old Mines, Missouri
How to get there: Fertile is about 1 ½ hours south of Troy near Washington State Park on Highway 21 and Route C. Here is a detailed map with directions. Click on My Places and then on My Saved Places.
For more information, call the Historical Society at 636-394-3628.

The heritage, music, culture and food of French Creole people come alive on Sunday, October 2 at the annual Le Fete De L’Automne, a festival celebrating a little known area of Missouri–Old Mines and Fertile.

The festival is a wonderful look into the lives of French Creole descendants, many of whom still speak the dialect and preserve their ancestors’ way of life in what was known as Upper Louisiana, part of the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. Just 1 ½ hours south of Troy, your drive through the fall foliage leads you to a day of music, featuring internationally known fiddler Dennis Stroughmatt and Creole Stomp.

In addition to the wonderful music, you’ll enjoy the famous chicken and dumplings dinner, croquinoles (French pastry made fresh on site), bakery (lots of home baked goodies), French sausage, ice cream, roasting ears and beverages, including mulled apple cider. Visit an historic display in the old Maplewood School house, see live demonstrations, trace your ancestors, purchase historical publications see what’s on offer at the country store.

Also featured are apple butter making, 1800s crafts, a gunsmith, blacksmith shop and the log home museum.

About the music
Dennis Stroughmatt, an authentic Creole/Cajun fiddler and preservationist, is a featured speaker for the Missouri Humanities Council Program Bureau and a touring master artist on the Mid-America Arts Alliance Artist Tour. As a teenager, Dennis was introduced to the American French culture in Old Mines. He spent two and a half intensive years recording, observing and learning many of the Creole French traditions still alive in “Upper Louisiana.”

The knowledge he gained there includes a centuries’ old French Creole fiddling style from fiddlers Roy Boyer and Charlie Pashia, fluency in Illinois-Missouri Creole French, and a wealth of stories and songs from storytellers and singers like Rose Pratte, Annie Pashia, Kent Beaulne, and Eli Robart, all of which have been handed down generation to generation in Missouri and Illinois for nearly 300 years.

A wonderful storyteller as well as a musician, Dennis also tours with Louisiana Creole greats Morris Ardoin and Dexter Ardoin, Lafayette’s Bayou Boys, The Lucky Playboys and other premier Creole/Cajun Bands.

July 2011 Calendar of events

Miss Lincoln County Fair Queen Pageant
Saturday, July 9
7 p.m.
Bonfils Auditorium
Watch 20 contestants vie for the honor of being the 2011 Miss Lincoln County Fair Queen, who will reign over the fair.

Lincoln County Fair Parade
Sunday, July 10
5 p.m.
Begins at the Troy Junior High School and the Library and ends at the City Park.

Lincoln County Fair
Tuesday, July 12-Saturday, July16
Lincoln County Fair Grounds
Fairgrounds Road
For detailed information about the fair, go to lincolncountyfair.net or call 636.528.2402. Entertainment headliners on Saturday, July 16 are the Charlie Daniels Band and Travis Tritt. Also, horse shows, 4-H competitions, truck and tractor pulls, demolition derby, Supercross, Dock Dogs, barbeque contests, classic tractor pull, livestock auctions, carnival rides, midway food and so much more this year.
Admission fees vary.

Supermarket Savvy
Thursday, July 14th
6-8 p.m.
Middendorf-Kredell Library
2750 Hwy K, O’Fallon
Learn from a nutrition and health education specialist the best strategies to feed you and your family healthfully and still meet your budget goals.
To attend, call 636.344.CARE (2273) or register online.

Blessing of the Fleet
Saturday, July 16
Portage des Sioux/Grafton
1 p.m.
Yacht Club of St. Louis
Boats will proceed downstream or from Harbor Point upstream in the main channel of the Mississippi River. The parade arrives at Our Lady of the Rivers Shrine at 2:15 p.m. where the boats will be blessed and ends in Grafton. Boats will be decorated with this year’s theme, Mermaids. For information, go to blessingofthefleetstl.com or call 618-786-7678

Sculpture, culture and exercise are rolled into one Missouri day trip vacation

Brought To You by Marquitz Motors, Enjoy Your Summer Fun!

Memorial Day signifies the beginning of summer and all things leisure. There are the barbeques, sports to play, swimming and planning the vacation. Rather than going far, far away, some of the best places for your vacation are right here in Missouri. What, stay home and vacation?

Right here in our own backyard are some wonderful experiences. The trick is to think like a tourist and enjoy activities that we can look at differently. Working on creative ways to have fun locally not only saves some money, it also gives us more appreciation of what features we have.

Our area is so rich with conservation areas, wildlife refuges, lakes and rivers that visitors from other states come back every summer to enjoy what we have.

Let’s look a bit north of Troy for an easy day trip that combines nature and art. Located on 20 acres and surrounded by a 300-acre natural refuge, the Henry Lay Sculpture Park near Louisiana is a family great adventure.

An easy 40-minute walk wanders through a maple grove, the McElwee Cemetery and many sculptures designed by internationally recognized artists. Children will enjoy Story Woods where they can read, play on and picnic with the sculptures. Emilie, the story keeper, and her garden of books greets visitors.

Part of St. Louis University’s Lay Center for Arts and Education, this is a perfect mix of art, culture and adventure as you hike through meadows, wooded rolling hills, lakes and streams. Only 39 miles and 45 minutes from Troy, this is a great day trip to pack a lunch and explore. If you have time, extend your trip into Louisiana, a delightful river town full of shopping, food and even more art.

The Henry Lay Sculpture Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to dusk and is free.

To help you plan your summer vacations in our state, the Missouri Division of Tourism has many suggestions and offers the 2011 Missouri Travel guide at no charge.

Distracted Driving – Continued

We all know that driving while talking on the phone is a risk, and that driving while texting is even riskier. The influence of technology has taken hold of many people when they get behind the wheel. In our previous blog about distracted driving we provided you with some alarming data from surveys conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center. After having explained the problem in our last article we are now going to present you with several different solutions.

A Virginia Tech Transportation Institute study revealed that physically dialing a phone while driving increases the risk of a crash as much as six times. Texting is riskier still, increasing the collision risk by 23 times. One recommendation to reduce the impact of distracted driving is that if you know someone is behind the wheel do not attempt to contact them unless it is an emergency (i.e. someone is bleeding, house is on fire, etc.). For those times when a phone call is necessary, several vehicle manufacturers have introduced features that allow for hands-free usage of phones as well as navigation systems.

An increase in the usage of phones can be seen when a driver is at a red light, stopped in traffic, driving alone, and while on a long drive. Another recommendation is that parents monitor their child’s daily phone usage to make sure they are not using it at an inappropriate time. Similarly, phone blocker applications have been developed in order for parents to restrict the cell-phone use of their kids and to record their driving behaviors. A few of these applications also have the ability to monitor the location of the cell-phone at all times.

What do you think about our recommendations? What ways do you suggest to reduce the amount of distracted driving? Let us know in our comments section.

Distracted Driving

We have all been there, driving down the road watching someone talk on their cell phone. Maybe they are sending a text message, applying makeup, multi-tasking, or even reading paperwork. Doesn’t sound very safe does it? Perhaps you were the one talking on the phone. Do not feel too bad as you are not alone. Recent surveys conducted by the Consumer Reports National Research Center have shown that 94% of individuals surveyed had witnessed other drivers talking on their phone within the last 30 days. Nearly 66% of that same group had seen someone texting while driving.

Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood has called distracted driving a deadly epidemic. In 2009 over 5,500 people were killed and 448,000 injured in accidents related to driver distraction. Several individuals have come forward lately in an effort to tell their stories about how dangerous this growing trend actually is. These are some of the most horrific stories ever told, and each one happened in an instant. Statistically speaking, the majority of people reading this article have been affected in one way or another by someone who was not focused behind the wheel.

Of the 5,500 people killed in 2009 by accidents related to driver distraction, over 3,400 of them were teenagers. This epidemic is spreading among teenagers like wildfire, and not enough people are doing anything about it. Nearly 2 out of every 3 drivers under the age of 30 have used a handheld phone while driving in the last 30 day; similarly 1 out of every 3 drivers under the age of 30 have texted while behind the wheel.

The discussion of distracted driving will be continued in our next blog where we will provide you with ways to help fight the problem. What are some of your thoughts on focusing behind the wheel? Let us know what you think in our comments section.

Teen Driving - What You Need to Know

In 1984, President Ronald Reagan signed the Federal Uniform Drinking Age Act, a law that threatened to withhold federal highway funds from states that failed to increase their minimum legal drinking age (MLDA) to 21. Nearly thirty years later the U.S. Congress will attempt to use the same tactic in order to force states to accept a national minimum requirement for Graduated Drivers’ License (GDL) laws. The STANDUP Act (Safe Teen and Novice Driver Uniform Protection Act) is being reintroduced in Congress after being stalled last year.

Missouri is one of several states with GDL laws in place, and has been rated as “Good” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). A few key points of the current Missouri GDL law:

• Three Levels: Instruction Permit, Intermediate License, Under 21 Full License
• Must be 15 years of age to receive Instruction Permit and complete 40 hours of supervised driving to advance
  
• Intermediate License can be acquired at 16 years of age and completed the Instruction Permit stage
  
• First 6 months, only 1 passenger under the age of 20
  
• Second 6 months, up to 3 passengers under the age of 20
  
• Under 21 Full License is available at age 18 upon completion of the Intermediate License

Under the new STANDUP Act you will notice a few changes:

• Age 16 will be the earliest for an Instruction Permit
  
• Only 1 non-family member passenger under the age of 21 during the Intermediate License stage
  
• No driving while using a cell phone

This law is being proposed in order to save teenage lives. In 2009, over 3,400 teens were killed in motor vehicle accidents.

What do you think? Is the GDL a good idea for teenagers? Give us your thoughts on our comments section.

The 2011 GMC Sierra Heavy Duty: The Ultimate Work Truck.

I can remember years ago when Highway 61 was still 2-lane black-top, and a trip to the city was something you looked forward to with great anticipation. The one thing that could spoil the mood faster than anything was starting off and immediately getting stuck behind an 18-wheeler. There were very few trucks on the road back then but, they drove a lot slower than they do today. You hated following them because there were only a few good places to pass between Troy and Wentzville.

Fortunately Highway 61 is 4 lanes now and there’s usually an opening to pass when you want to but, I am constantly amazed by how many more trucks are on the road today. In the city it seems like they make up about 25% of the total interstate traffic. It’s not hard to see why because, when you think about it, a truck is almost always the most economical, if not the only way to get a load from point A to point B.

If you’re someone that needs to get a load from Point A to Point B on a regular basis, there’s no better way to go than the 2011 GMC Sierra Heavy Duty. No other HD pickup offers more capacity in more models than Sierra. The available new Duramax Diesel 6.6L V-8 Turbo and Allison 1000 Series 6-speed automatic transmission are engineered to improve power and mileage. Advanced diesel direct-injection technology and an adaptive transmission controller help Duramax to run at peak efficiency, and provide you with a highway mileage range of up to 680 highway miles.

The Duramax/Allison powertrain has a proven track record, with more than 1.2 million sold since 2000.
The Allison 1000 Series 6-speed automatic—the same make used in the M1 tank—is built with multiple features to help the driver handle heavy loads with confidence. There’s range selection mode to enhance control and engine braking in specific driving situations and grade braking mode that helps slow the vehicle on long grades by automatically selecting a lower gear.

The standard 6.0L Vortec V-8 delivers torque and horsepower across a wide RPM range. Matched with the Hydramatic 6L90-E, it gives the driver smooth and progressive response for effortless driving, trailering or hauling.

Sierra HD offers outstanding payload and trailering, including segment-leading conventional trailering capability of up to 17,000 lbs, and fifth-wheel trailering capability of up to 21,700 lbs. Standard on all Sierra HD SRW models, Sierra HD trailer sway control uses the built-in StabiliTrak sensors to look for changes in ride motion that could indicate trailer sway, and then applies braking as needed to bring the trailer back in line. A fully integrated trailer brake controller is also available to give you greater control of trailer braking force.

Sierra HD’s braking system is much more than a pedal. It is a system of control engineered to help keep you on your intended path, and maintain your cool no matter how challenging the situation. Because, with a heavy load behind you, you need to be ready for what’s ahead of you. Automatic Grade Braking monitors vehicle speed, acceleration, engine torque and brake pedal usage. Using this information, it detects when the truck is on a downhill grade and the driver desires to slow the vehicle. Then if necessary, the transmission downshifts to help hold the desired speed.

To help you choose the fifth-wheel or gooseneck hitch that works best for your needs, GMC engineers consulted with leading aftermarket hitch manufacturers. Based on their input, they added new access holes to the rear frame section to accept a wider variety of hitches. These holes also help to preserve frame strength and save installation time. Adding a plow to Sierra HD is easy. Ask your dealer for the available Snow Plow Prep Package, and your truck will be prepared for most current hydraulic snow plows. It upgrades the front Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) to 6000 lbs on diesel-equipped models, while the torsion-bar front suspension allows you to make seasonal ride-height adjustments in minutes, with a single wrench.

You can make your Sierra HD a wireless hot spot with available dealer-installed Autonet Mobile WiFi, the first wireless Internet service provider designed for automotive use. It allows up to 10 people to connect to the Internet at once, using any combination of smart phones, laptops, or WiFi-enabled devices. The available DVD-based touch-screen navigation system3 combines superb audio performance with mapping capabilities from a variety of sources. It features a 6.5-inch display, 2-D or 3-D graphics and 3 months of XM NavTraffic. It also integrates with OnStar Turn-By-Turn Navigation so you will never stop to ask directions. To help you stay in touch at all times, Bluetooth1 capability is standard in Denali and SLT models to let you connect your wireless phone or PDA to the standard hands-free calling system. This allows you to control your device with the phone and audio system controls located on the steering wheel.

If you need the best work truck on the road, there’s no better choice than the 2011 GMC Sierra HD and if you’re looking for a dealer to show you all it can do, there’s no better choice than Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team knows these trucks inside and out and you can count on them to be as Professional Grade as the GMC trucks they sell and service.

They will take the time to answer all your questions and be sure you have all the information you need to make the best decisions. Everyone from sales associate to service adviser will treat you like a friend and neighbor each and every time. Marquitz prices GMC trucks more aggressively that any dealer I’ve seen so, when you get down to the numbers, no one will work harder to get you more for your trade-in and get to a payment that works for you. Stop by and see the best work truck on the road, the 2011 GMC Sierra Heavy Duty at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Mo.

The 2011 GMC Yukon, it’s packed with creature features but it’s really all about towing.

The 2011 GMC Yukon has a many features and technological advancements as any vehicle out there but when you get down to it, the Yukon is really all about towing. There are a lot of reasons to tow. You may be in the building trades and need to haul tools and materials. Landscapers need to haul mowers and equipment. It might be a weekend thing and you want to haul a boat or camping trailer. Whatever the reasons are to tow, one thing is for sure: no one wants to hook a trailer up to a vehicle that can’t handle it. That’s where the 2011 GMC Yukon steps in. GMC Yukon is the no-excuses full-size SUV engineered for those who refuse to sacrifice capability for refinement or capacity for efficiency.

From the confident power of the Vortec engine family to the advanced stability control systems, Yukon is engineered from the ground up for trailering. With available seating for up to nine or best-in-class 137.4 cu. ft. of cargo volume, Yukon XL is the choice for maximum passenger and cargo capacity. The Yukon XL features a ¾-ton model not offered by any competitor. This provides a trailer weight rating of 9600 lbs and a best-in-class maximum payload of up to 2454 lbs. Because using Yukon’s capacity shouldn’t test your limits, the 6-speed automatic has two standard assists. First is the Tow/Haul mode, which works to reduce excess shifting when towing or carrying a heavy load.

It also automatically engages the second feature, called Grade Braking. This changes the timing of gear shifts to use the engine and the transmission to slow the vehicle, to reduce demand on the brakes and help to produce confident descents. No other competitor offers the confidence of Yukon’s available trailer brake controller. It is completely integrated with the Yukon’s electrical and ABS systems, allowing your trailer brakes to operate simultaneously with your vehicle brakes.

To suit changing conditions, this system also allows you to adjust the trailer brake force from the controller switch located on your lower left instrument panel. For greater traction on poor road surfaces, Yukon is equipped with the fully automatic Eaton Locking Rear Differential. When it senses one wheel slipping more than another, it locks both to turn at the same speed for extra traction. No other competitor in its class offers this type of traction enhancing technology.

To give you immediate acceleration with strong reserve response at almost any speed, the standard Vortec 5.3L V-8 with Active Fuel Management is tuned to deliver its power across a wide RPM range. This engine also offers the best highway fuel economy of any conventional gas V-8 in its class, an EPA-estimated 21 mpg hwy. At 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque, the Vortec 6.2L V-8 engine that is standard in Yukon Denali and Yukon offers the most horsepower and torque in its class.

All 5.3L and 6.2L Yukon models are equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission engineered to extract optimum performance from the Vortec engine. Standard with all 6-speed automatics is Driver Shift Control, which lets you manually shift gears to suit driving conditions. Shift to the “M” position and DSC will also allow you to shift gears up and down with the +/- tap shift selector.

With the Remote Start feature, one touch of your electronic key fob can start the engine and begin heating or cooling your cabin. In addition to its impressive passenger and cargo capacity, Yukon is also easy to load. With the available power liftgate, you can open and close it with the touch of a button.

Large, high-capacity four-wheel disc brakes with ABS are engineered into every Yukon model for confident stops, time after time. For extra assistance, the system offers brake assist that can sense a sudden stop and apply full pedal pressure to help stop or slow your Yukon as quickly as possible for the conditions. For a smooth, stable ride under a variety of conditions, the Yukon is engineered with coil-over-shock front and five-link coil spring rear suspensions.

Yes, Yukon has every possible option from Bluetooth to DVD and gaming to navigation and OnStar but, would any of that matter if it wasn’t one the most capable towing vehicles on the planet. We all know why this vehicle is the clear choice when it comes to raw capability and when we talk about clear choices, there’s only one clear choice when it comes to picking out your new Yukon; it’s Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy Missouri.

The Marquitz Team is as Professional Grade as the GMC vehicles they sell. They know these vehicles inside and out so they can help you find the one that will do exactly what you need it to do. They will take the time to make sure you are comfortable with every aspect of your purchase and ownership experience. When you get to the bottom line, no one prices vehicles more aggressively than Marquitz, and they will work harder than anyone to get you the most for your trade and get to a payment that works for you. If you’re looking for a vehicle and a dealer that are both Professional Grade, it’s Marquitz.

Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy Missouri.

The 2011 GMC Sierra, a Truck for all Reasons

Not everyone in Lincoln County farms, however just about everyone around has the strong work ethic and basic values that come from living in a farming community. That means everyone is pretty tight fisted with their hard earned dollars and they’re always looking for the best long term value when they make a major purchasing decision.

That’s where the Professional Grade 2011 GMC Sierra shines. It’s not at all unusual for this workhorse to haul around feed and grain all week, be hosed down to go to town on Saturday and then haul the entire family to church on Sunday morning.
The Sierra has the room, style, technology and available DVD player needed to make it the perfect family vehicle on the weekends and at the same time be the ultimate work truck during the week.

To start with it has up to 10,700 lbs. of towing capacity, up to a ton of payload capacity and the broadest engine line-up in the segment with the best V-8 fuel economy. You can get up to 403 Horse power in a Sierra while no one in the competition offers over 300. If you’re really focused on fuel economy and the best V-8 fuel economy in the segment doesn’t float your boat, then check out the Sierra Hybrid with a 40% increase in city fuel economy. I’m not sure why it’s called “city” fuel economy when it’s also the exact kind of stop and go, load and unload driving you do anywhere with a work truck.

Inside the 2011 Sierra you can have every technological and comfort feature the entire family is sure to appreciate. There’s available Bluetooth for your phone, navigation, a DVD entertainment system, an MP3-compatible CD player with AM/FM stereo, USB connection and Driver Information Center.

Parents will appreciate highly desirable safety features like a host of front and side curtain airbags, an available StabiliTrack system, and rearview camera while anyone can enjoy the available sunroof and leather-appointed, power reclining heated seats.

The roads in Lincoln County get better every day, but there are still some places where a great 4 by 4 will come in handy during a January blizzard. (If you’ve been here for very long you know that blizzard isn’t an exaggeration.) If there are some tough roads between you and town, you might want to consider the 4-wheel drive Sierra. It will get you up the road to Frenchman’s Bluff even with a foot of snow on the ground however, I can’t imagine why you would need to get up there during a snowstorm unless you were looking to spoon.

All kidding aside, the 2011 GMC Sierra is not only one of the most capable vehicles anywhere, it has the style and comfort the entire family will appreciate. It’s the best of both worlds in one very capable truck.

When you start thinking about test driving the 2011 GMC Sierra, think about the folks at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team knows trucks. They can help you find the truck that will do everything you need it to do and then some. In my experience, no one will work harder to get to a payment that works for you and send you home in a new GMC truck.

You can count on a straight forward, honest approach that will be a breath of fresh air compared to some of those pushy dealers. The Marquitz team will take the time to make sure your 100% satisfied and comfortable with every aspect of the transaction. Maybe that’s why they get so many repeat customers.

Stop by and take a look at the best truck you will ever own and drive… there will be no pressure to buy when you get here because, we know the 2011 GMC Sierra will sell itself. See you soon at Marquitz Buick Pontiac GMC in Troy, Mo.

CTS-V Wagon named Automobile All-Star

CTS-V Wagon named Automobile All-Star

Provided by Marquitz Motors Buick GMC Cadillac in Troy, MO.

MotorAuthority honors CTS-V as 2011 “Best Luxury/Performance Car to Buy”

MotorAuthority honors CTS-V as 2011 “Best Luxury/Performance Car to Buy”

Provided by Marquitz Motors Buick GMC Cadillac in Troy, MO.

Winter Storm

From the Marquitz family to yours, stay warm, dry, and safe during this winter storm!

Don't forget to follow the weather updates on The Weather Channel for Troy, MO.

CTS leads Cadillac U.S. sales surge in November

CTS leads Cadillac U.S. sales surge in November

Provided by Marquitz Buick GMC Cadillac in Troy, MO.

The 2011 Buick Lucerne: A 21st Century Buick

In the spring and fall when the weather was nice, I would walk home each day from Claude Brown Elementary School to my home on Cap-au-Gris. I was fortunate enough to know Claude Brown and few individuals have contributed as much to the welfare of this community as he did. I was only 6 years old when we met but still remember how much admiration I had for him growing up. He was extremely intelligent and articulate on one hand and yet very gentle and caring on another. They named the school after him for good reason.

My route home each day took me down Main Street to the corner of Cap-au-Gris where Mordt Tractor was on one corner and Phil Beck Motors was on the other. Each day as I began to turn the corner I was drawn like a magnet to the row of shiny new Buicks. Every young boy loves cars but I was just totally enchanted by the Buicks.

Each day I would stop and admire them close up for a few minutes. I could see members of the staff laugh and point sometimes but I didn’t care. My few minutes with that row of cars each day was my moment of Zen, nothing in the world at the time meant as much to me. Soon I would realize that if I stayed any longer I would be in trouble for not coming home so, I would do double time up Cap-au-Gris to my home. At age 6, I thought they were the best cars in the world and age 60+, I still do.

The 2011 Buick Lucerne continues the legacy of the classic Buick yet, this is a vehicle for the 21st Century in every way. Carrying the name Buick means Lucerne has been well thought out with every line polished, every technology purposefully precise Lucerne was designed and engineered to form a more intelligent luxury sedan. Not show-off smart, just life-enhancing, premium, easy-to-use technologies.

Its standard FlexFuel 3.9L 227-hp V-6 engine runs on gasoline or E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. The second option is the available all-aluminum 32-valve Northstar 4.6L V-8 powering the Lucerne Super model. Its legendary status is proven with 292 hp and quick acceleration with plenty of reserve power. They’re both mated to a smooth-shifting, electronically tuned 6-speed automatic transmission. For the ultimate in convenience, Lucerne can be started from nearly 200 feet away with an available remote starter system.

Being behind the wheel of the Lucerne Super model means Magnetic Ride Control is working for you. It speed-reads the road up to 1,000 times per second, adjusting damper settings to heighten wheel contact, giving you tight handling and a fluid ride—something Infiniti G37 or Lexus ES 350 can’t do.

Dynamic handling also comes from the four-wheel independent suspension with full-range traction control and StabiliTrak, an electronic stability control system. StabiliTrak constantly monitors Lucerne to help retain traction and assist you in maintaining your steering path for optimal control.

Don’t let the art-deco-inspired analog clock fool you. We gave Lucerne all the latest tech smarts you need to find whatever you’re searching for. To help guide you, the available voice and touch-screen activated DVD Navigation System offers nearly 7 million miles of North American roads. XM NavTraffic2 incorporates real-time road conditions right into your NAV screen, directing you around trouble spots and toward the most efficient route. And while you’re on the road, keep your hands on the wheel thanks to Bluetooth connectivity.
You’ll also find OnStar, which comes standard for six months, featuring guided Turn-by-Turn Navigation. Choose the previously mentioned NAV system, andOnStar Destination Download sends directions to your screen without stopping or entering anything. Or use eNav to find your destination online at MapQuest® and have it sent to Lucerne’s OnStar system. You will also find leather-appointed seating with French stitching and perforated suede insets. Buick’s QuietTuning process reduces, blocks and absorbs noise and vibration to help keep outside noises outside providing a sense of security and well being.

Those are emotions not often associated with a visit to a car dealership but, that’s exactly what you get when you arrive at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team has the highest possible standards of customer service and strives to exceed those standards every day. Each and every Marquitz associate is dedicated to making sure you have the finest purchase and ownership experience possible. That begins with taking the time to find out what your needs are, and striving to match you with the vehicle that fulfills all of them.

Everyone from sales associate to service adviser will treat you like a friend and neighbor each and every time. Marquitz prices Buick vehicles more aggressively that any dealer I’ve seen so, when you get down to the numbers, no one will work harder to get you more for your trade-in and get to a payment that works for you. Stop by and see the new class of world-class in the 2011 Buick Lucerne at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Mo.

And if you see a tall man with silver hair standing in front of the new Buicks and staring at them like a little boy, it’s just me having my moment of Zen.

Laurence Fishburne to be the New Voice of Cadillac

Laurence Fishburne to be the New Voice of Cadillac

Provided by Marquitz Motors Buick GMC Cadillac in Troy, MO.

Cure Duchenne and Cadillac PSA

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The All-New CTS Coupe

Take a look at the options on the All-New CTS Coupe at Marquitz Motors Buick GMC Cadillac in Troy, MO.

The 2011 Cadillac SRX

Shortly after I began dating my wife Patricia, I looked in the old garage behind her house one evening while she was still getting ready for our date and, much to my amazement, I saw a bright Red 1967 Cadillac De Ville 2-Door Hardtop. I asked her about it and she said it was her daily driver for many years but one day when it needed repair, her previous husband took it apart and had no idea how to put it back together. The ’67 Cady remained in the garage until one day when her father came from Oregon for a visit. He immediately asked me if I had any tools and the next day I brought him everything I had.

While Trish and I were at work each day he would go back to the garage and work on the Caddy. I really didn’t believe he would get it running because I had seen the piles of parts in the trunk and around the garage. A few evenings later I pulled up to the house to find Trish and her dad sitting in the front seat of the Caddy honking at me.

The first ride in that Caddy was really something. The red leather interior was still in great shape and within a few blocks I realized that car was a parade all by itself. Everyone stopped what they were doing and waved or honked. We decided that it probably wasn’t realistic to make the car her daily driver again since she would have put in a lead additive every time she filled it up, so she advertised it and sold it to a collector that was going to do a full restoration.

As he drove off in the car I asked my wife-to-be why she was crying and she said, ”it was y first Caddy, you have no idea how wonderful that car made me feel.” Since then I have had the pleasure of owning a Cadillac, so finally know exactly what she was talking about.

The 2011 Cadillac SRX is definitely a vehicle to inspire those kind of feelings. The SRX is the Cadillac of crossovers. A fusing of dramatic presence, advanced technology and flexible storage space, all crafted to the highest level of detail. Powered by an advanced direct-injected or available turbocharged engine, and offering a handcrafted interior that pampers both driver and passengers. This is a new standard for luxury crossovers.

When it comes to the SRX, performance means many things. The StabiliTrak electronic stability control automatically engages braking and modulates engine power to help the driver stay on course. And the available advanced all-wheel drive system employs an electronic limited slip differential which provides enhanced control while cornering.

Inside the SRX, advanced technology and craftsmanship come together like never before. This is a carefully handcrafted cabin, accented by exquisite French stitching, available Sapele wood trim, fingertip steering wheel mounted controls and available interior ambient lighting. Incorporating amenities like a Bose® premium sound system, iPod connectivity, and an available hard drive with 10GB for music storage, glide-up touch screen navigation, and Bluetooth® phone connectivity, the 2011 Cadillac SRX makes the most of your driving experience. A power liftgate with memory allows you to open the liftgate to any pre-programmed height, and close it, at the touch of a button.


Engine options include a 3.0L direct injection V6, or an available 2.8L turbocharged V6 with ECO mode to alter transmission shift points and maximize fuel efficiency. Direct injection technology combined with Variable Valve Timing, delivers the perfect balance of impressive power and fuel efficiency. The 6-speed automatic transmission incorporates Driver Shift Control, which allows smooth manual gear changes without the use of a clutch pedal.

The Memory Seating option recalls settings for two drivers, including driver’s seat position, adjustable pedals, outside mirrors and other personal preferences. Keyless access is an available feature that allows convenient passive vehicle entry. Once programmed, the remote unlocks all five doors when carried near the vehicle and locks them as you walk away. An available UltraView sunroof spans front and rear seats and features a sliding glass panel and power sunshade.

If you’re hauling any kids, I recommend the rear-seat DVD Entertainment System with dual seat-mounted flip-up diagonal screens, wireless headphones and remote, it provides diversion for passengers in back. A rearview camera is viewable via an LCD screen in the rearview mirror or on the navigation screen, when equipped.

The best place I know of to see and drive the 2011 Cadillac SRX is Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team has the highest possible standards of customer service and strives to exceed those standards every day. Each and every Marquitz associate is dedicated to making sure you have the finest purchase and ownership experience possible. That begins with taking the time to find out what your needs are, and striving to match you with the vehicle that fulfills all of them.

Everyone from sales associate to service adviser will treat you like a friend and neighbor each and every time. Marquitz prices Cadillac vehicles more aggressively that any dealer I’ve seen so, no one will work harder to get you more for your trade-in and get to a payment that works for you. Stop by today and see the 2011 Cadillac SRX at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Mo.

The All-New 2011 Buick LaCrosse: An Adrenaline Rush

I must begin by admitting that I’ve been a die-hard Buick fan ever since I fell in love with the Grand Sport convertible in the late ‘60s. Once I grew out of my desire for a muscle car, Buick became the vehicle in that sweet-spot between luxury and real common sense. They’re stylish, sophisticated vehicles that, at the same time, deliver unmistakable value.

It wasn’t so long ago I put truck springs on my ’93 Roadmaster station wagon and hauled everything from as many sheets of drywall as the back would hold to a full load of gravel on top of a tarp. No one is harder on a vehicle than I am, and Buick has always come through for me. At 175,000 miles I traded in the station wagon but, since then I have talked to Roadmaster owners that have driven theirs for 250,000 and over 350,000 miles. Now I’m never surprised to hear how far someone has driven their Buick.

When I look at the all-new 2011 LaCrosse I see a vehicle that has redefined world-class in every way; it’s a visual knock-out and a technological marvel. Both the interior and exterior have sculptured lines the Europeans haven’t even thought of yet. My wife Patricia and I are both artists, so we can appreciate the truly phenomenal design innovations both inside and outside this new LaCrosse. It’s a work of art on wheels and then some.

You could pay $70,000, $80,000 even $100,000 for a vehicle this technologically advanced but why would you when the new LaCrosse is tens of thousands less. I don’t believe it’s possible to get more for your vehicle dollar than you do in the new LaCrosse. Even standing still this vehicle will move you.

The Ice Blue Ambient lighting in the interior is nothing less than enchanting. This is one of the most elegant interiors I have ever seen. Every possible option is available in the LaCrosse but the real hook is the unbelievable ride. The six speed automatic moves through the gears so effortlessly you probably won’t even stop to consider how much it is saving you on gas.

My wife is a real fan of the available remote start and heated front drive and passenger seat because we rarely have room to get a car in the garage and everyone knows how cold it gets on a snowy January morning. The available all-wheel drive will come in handy on those days as well.

The headrest mounted available dual DVD players are neatly tucked away when the kids aren’t with you but are a life saver on a trip of any length. I think the OnStar stolen vehicle assist and vehicle slowdown are like insurance and fire extinguishers. You hope you never need them but you’re happy to have them everyday.

The LaCrosse comes with either a 182 horsepower four-cylinder or a 280 horsepower V-6. I have always been a fan of the General Motors V-6 power plant because it delivers the fuel efficiency associated with 4-cylinder motors not that long ago but it has the power you would only expect from a V-8.

Being a V-6 fan, I was really amazed at the acceleration you get with the 4-cylinder. No problem getting on the highway or passing in this baby. As gas prices continue to rise, it could quickly convert me to the more economical 4-cylinder platform.

When you start thinking about driving the all-new 2011 Buick LaCrosse, think about the folks at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. The Marquitz team is always knowledgeable, friendly and professional. They know the vehicles in and out and in my experience, no one will work harder to get to a payment that works for you and send you home in a new Buick, Cadillac or GMC. They’re not out to take advantage of you like some of those guys in the city. Marquitz will treat you like a friend and neighbor every time and hat’s why they have so many return customers.

No Worries Sales Event

This just in! Marquitz Buick GMC Cadillac is having a “No Worries Sales Event” on GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicles. Incentives were released this morning to feature 1.9% APR financing up to 36 months, and 2.9% APR up to 60 months for qualified buyers. Models include the Chevrolet Silverado, Impala, Malibu, GMC Sierra, http://www.marquitzmotors.com/VehicleDetails/certified-2008-GMC-Acadia-FWD_4dr_SLT1-Troy-MO/787252143, Buick Enclave, and the Pontiac G6. Our GM Certified Pre-Owned inventory can be searched online.

One of the highest accolades we can give a pre-owned vehicle is the status of GM Certified. In order to receive that honor, an automobile must first pass a 117-point inspection, be a 2006 or newer model, and have fewer than 75,000 miles. The benefit to you the customer is that GM can provide two great warranties, a free vehicle history report, and much more. After purchasing a GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicle you will feel more secure, and satisfied than any other used vehicle.

These special rates are only available until February 28th, 2011, and vehicle selections are limited. Hurry in today for a test drive before time runs out!

Cadillac is Fastest-growing Major Luxury Brand in 2010

Cadillac is Fastest-growing Major Luxury Brand in 2010

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GM Certified Pre-owned Vehicles: Peace-Of-Mind at a far More Modest Price.

There’s an old blues song I like with a line in the lyrics that goes, “If I ever get my hands on a dollar again, I’m gonna’ squeeze it… ‘till the eagle grins”. We’ve seen some difficult times lately, times that in some ways have rivaled the Great Depression but, hopefully, everyone is working to make sure it doesn’t take as long to recover this time.

In good times and some that weren’t so good, people living in around Lincoln County have never had a dollar that wasn’t hard earned and firmly in their grip. Every time I hear someone use the term “disposable income” I have to laugh and say,“ where I come from there’s no such thing”.

I don’t know about you, but for me having dependable transportation has always been the cornerstone of having my life somewhat under control. It provides priceless piece-of-mind that seems to keep me grounded. I can remember when the only logical reason to trade vehicles was that the vehicle you were currently driving was no longer dependable. Now people trade for a number of logical reasons that go beyond the break-down. You may use your car for business and your old one doesn’t present the best image to your clients. You may have had married and had twins since you purchased and the 2-seater just doesn’t work anymore. Maybe your old vehicle gets poor gas mileage and buying a newer, more efficient one makes better long term financial sense.

Whatever your reason for wanting to trade, I would advise you to seriously consider a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle from Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. A Certified Pre-owned vehicle can provide the priceless piece-of –mind that comes from having a highly dependable vehicle and fit into almost any car shopping budget category.

A General Motors certified pre-owned vehicle receives a 117 point inspection and expert reconditioning from the Marquitz team of factory certified technicians. Every Certified Pre-owned vehicle comes with a 12 month/12,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty and the balance of the 5 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. That makes any GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle a much better choice than your run-of-the-mill used car.

You also get 24-hour roadside assistance and courtesy transportation so, you’re never stuck in the unlikely event that you do have an issue. Satisfaction is a given with the 3-day, 150-mile exchange program and every Certified Pre-owned vehicle comes with a Carfax Vehicle History Report. This is important because there are dealers out there that will fix up a wreck and tell you it’s a low miles little-old-lady car that only left the garage to go to church on Sunday.

It’s amazing what a good body shop and detailer can do these days but, if the car had repaired frame damage you may never be able to properly align the wheels again and have to replace your tires almost as often as you change the oil. When you choose a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle you eliminate a world of potential worry because if isn’t right or has had an issue in its past, it will not qualify to be a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle.

Another great thing about GM Certified Pre-Owned vehicles is that in most cases they qualify for new vehicle financing. That can mean a lower rate over a longer term and lower payments. Lower payments means you may be able to qualify for a better vehicle than you expected.

If you want a great selection of GM Certified vehicles to choose from, I would recommend Marquitz Buick, Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri. Each and every Marquitz associate is dedicated to making sure you have the finest purchase and ownership experience possible. That begins with taking the time to find out what your needs are, and striving to match you with the vehicle that fulfills all of them.

No one will work harder to get you more for your trade-in and get to a payment that works for you. Currently they’re offering 1.9% financing for up to 60 months on a GM Certified Pontiac G6’s. In my experience, you can’t beat the Marquitz team and a GM Certified Pre-owned vehicle. That’s a win-win and both of the wins are for you. Stop by Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC in Troy, Missouri today and check out their selection of GM Certified Pre-owned vehicles.

Happy New Year!

Welcome to 2011! This will be the year for growth and new beginnings at Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC. In the upcoming months we will strive to continue making the customer our top priority. We will be introducing some exciting products and services to our clients. You can look forward to great incentives, and continued quality from Buick, Cadillac, and GMC!


Happy New Year!

- Marquitz Buick Cadillac GMC