Handy Chevrolet
699 Highgate Road St. Albans, VT 05478Sales: (888) 295-5380
- Service: 888-831-2041
- Parts: 888-316-6471
Print
Employee Spotlight of the Month
Welcome to a new section of the Handy Chevrolet Website, the Employee Spotlight of the Month! This addition to our current Staff Page is meant to give you an even greater insight into the men and women that sell you Chevrolet vehicles, finance those Chevrolet vehicles through GMAC, and perform the GM Goodwrench Service on your new Chevrolet or used car, truck, SUV, or van. This in depth look at a Handy Chevrolet Employee each month will hopefully give you viewers a chance to get to know a little more about your favorite Chevrolet Dealerships members like never before! If anyone has any questions, please don't hesitate to click here to be connected directly to our original Staff section to find the employee of the month and contact them via the information provided. We sincerely hope to enhance your Chevrolet buying, selling, or Chevrolet/GM Goodwrench service and repair experience, and hope to make you feel welcome before, during, and after your visit. We want to let you folks know that we are here to serve your automotive needs, and hopefully getting to know your Chevrolet staff a bit before your first trip to our dealership will release some of the worries you may have; if you are a return customer, perhaps you will come to find out your favorite Chevrolet Sales Consultant or Service Technician has more in common with you than originally thought.
Any suggestions or comments are more than welcome. Please direct correspondence to Internet Manager Chris Dugan (cdugan@handycars.com) and it will be taken under advisement. This page cannot exist without dedicated customers and fans, so let all of us in the Handy Chevrolet Family take this opportunity to thank you!
Sincerely,
The Handy Chevrolet Family
September 2010
Ben Franklin
GM Goowrench Service Technician
August 2010
Jason Mobley
Chevrolet Sales Consultant
July 2010
Mario Nardelli
Chevrolet Sales Consultant
Ben Franklin
GM Goowrench Service Technician
I met with September's Employee Spotlight of the Month from Handy Chevrolet this afternoon, and Mr. Ben Franklin was thrilled to be the pick of the month.
Born in Burlington, Vermont, Ben was born and raised here and has remained all except his time in the Service. As a member of the United States Army for two years and following up his initial contract as a member of the National Guard for five years, Mr. Franklin certainly knows his way around military commands and an arsenal.
As a Technician at Handy Chevrolet's GM Goodwrench Service Center here in St. Albans, Ben, unlike some others, is not specified as one character. Rather Franklin can do just about everything, including the newly acquired Saturn and Pontiac Warranty work for which he's now authorized. This, one can assume, makes Ben quite a threat in the high demand world of auto repair.
As of November 1, 2010, Ben will have completed his first full year with Handy Chevrolet, and Chevy Service and Parts Manager Scott MacArt couldn't be happier with the young gentleman, clearly evidenced by his selection as the Employee Spotlight of the Month.
Ben, whose favorite color is black and white, is also a Basketball fan. When asked which vehicle in the current Chevrolet lineup best personifies him, he had to think about it for a minute. "Oh, man, you had to ask me that," he says smiling. After pondering the question for a moment, he replies "I guess the Silverado. It's burly? you know, a Techs dream vehicle!" he muses.
When Ben isn't joking around and tinkering on Chevrolet, Saturn, and Pontiac vehicles at the GM Goodwrench facility at Handy Cars' 699 Highgate Road location in St. Albans, Ben's an avid mud bogging aficionado. "My dream vehicle?" he retorts when asked what exactly it would be. "Other than my current vehicle," he starts, but was told it could in fact be his current truck if that was the answer. "Oh," he said, "then yeah, a Chevrolet mud truck. Anything that bombs through the mud!" On this point, he seems to have a lot in common with Handy Toyota Sales Consultant Kyle Ward who also enjoys mudding, but the two have never met.
So if you need warranty work done to your Saturn or Pontiac vehicle or anything worked on from an oil change to a new set of tires on your Chevrolet car, truck, or SUV, come and see Ben Franklin, Handy Chevrolet Technician and Employee Spotlight of the Month star!
Born in Burlington, Vermont, Ben was born and raised here and has remained all except his time in the Service. As a member of the United States Army for two years and following up his initial contract as a member of the National Guard for five years, Mr. Franklin certainly knows his way around military commands and an arsenal.
As a Technician at Handy Chevrolet's GM Goodwrench Service Center here in St. Albans, Ben, unlike some others, is not specified as one character. Rather Franklin can do just about everything, including the newly acquired Saturn and Pontiac Warranty work for which he's now authorized. This, one can assume, makes Ben quite a threat in the high demand world of auto repair.
As of November 1, 2010, Ben will have completed his first full year with Handy Chevrolet, and Chevy Service and Parts Manager Scott MacArt couldn't be happier with the young gentleman, clearly evidenced by his selection as the Employee Spotlight of the Month.
Ben, whose favorite color is black and white, is also a Basketball fan. When asked which vehicle in the current Chevrolet lineup best personifies him, he had to think about it for a minute. "Oh, man, you had to ask me that," he says smiling. After pondering the question for a moment, he replies "I guess the Silverado. It's burly? you know, a Techs dream vehicle!" he muses.
When Ben isn't joking around and tinkering on Chevrolet, Saturn, and Pontiac vehicles at the GM Goodwrench facility at Handy Cars' 699 Highgate Road location in St. Albans, Ben's an avid mud bogging aficionado. "My dream vehicle?" he retorts when asked what exactly it would be. "Other than my current vehicle," he starts, but was told it could in fact be his current truck if that was the answer. "Oh," he said, "then yeah, a Chevrolet mud truck. Anything that bombs through the mud!" On this point, he seems to have a lot in common with Handy Toyota Sales Consultant Kyle Ward who also enjoys mudding, but the two have never met.
So if you need warranty work done to your Saturn or Pontiac vehicle or anything worked on from an oil change to a new set of tires on your Chevrolet car, truck, or SUV, come and see Ben Franklin, Handy Chevrolet Technician and Employee Spotlight of the Month star!
August 2010
Jason Mobley
Chevrolet Sales Consultant
The car business is a fickle beast, and not everyone can hack it. Whether it's working on commission-perhaps one of the few jobs in this world that literally pays for one's effort-or just the aggressive demeanor with which the industry at large is perceived and even practiced as a norm, there are not many folks that make it to the mid-point of the spectrum. In other words, either you make it long term, or you don't make it at all; there is little to no middle ground in this world in which we work and reside.
Hence, it's not uncommon to see familiar faces or vague features; it's not beyond conventional practice to see someone stay at Handy Chevrolet or the Handy Family of Dealerships for 20 or more years just as it's equally likely to see someone come and go in a week. It's the nature of the fiend, and it certainly isn't a profession in which everyone fits the mold as a "perfect employee."
As familiar as we at Handy Chevrolet of St. Albans, Vermont are with this practice, we are just as shocked when a bona fide superstar joins our ranks from the unknown. This isn't to say that we expect people to fail in our organization-on the contrary, we've made a very hospitable and joyous work environment, from Owner Dan Handy to Sales Manager Pete Obuchon and right down the line-but it's the above mentioned adage that seems to prove true: with an extremely low turnover, it's no wonder you either serve a life sentence or you're destined for early release, of your own accord though it may be.
So you can imagine our great surprise when the resume flew through the window of our server with such a long list of accomplishments: Saturn of Burlington; Freedom Chrysler's Used Car Manager; a thirteen year track record as a great Sales Consultant and an outstanding four-plus years of service as Manager of Used Cars, which anyone will tell you certainly don't sell themselves.
As we pondered whether or not this was some joke or a piece of spam, the lighter side of the resume shone through: a dedicated family man, dreams and ambitions of doing good in the world, and an almost unbelievable poise (until you meet this man) with which his principles flow forth, to guide and insight power within his fellows.
This month, Handy Chevrolet of St. Albans, VT, part of the Handy Family of Dealerships, serving Northern Vermont, Burlington, Essex, and the Plattsburgh, New York area with new Chevrolet's, new Toyota's, and used cars of any make or model, proudly welcomes Certified Chevrolet Sales Consultant Jason Mobley into the fold by donning the title of Employee Spotlight of the Month upon him for the month of August, 2010.
Jason Mobley, born in Burlington, Vermont, has spent his whole life in the Green Mountain State. Since his birth 29 years ago, he has lived and worked in Vermont, not to mention having put a whole boatload of customers into their dream car-strike that-the perfect car.
"That's why I'm adamant about Sales Consultant, not Sales Person," he states in a matter-of-fact manner. "There's a distinct difference between the two. I pride myself on getting people in the perfect vehicle." When pressed to expand upon what this means to him, he continues: "well I'm not just in it for the Sale, i.e. a Sales Person. I want to make sure each car fits each customer, and fits them 110%. If they aren't 100% satisfied, then I'm not even 1% satisfied."
As stated, Mr. Mobley has a pretty thorough track record within the automotive industry and by all accounts nothing less than a superbly sterling reputation. Before this July when Jason started at Handy Chevrolet, he had been a Used Car Manager of four years at Freedom Chrysler of Burlington, Vermont, where he cut his jib in the delicate used vehicle market. Used vehicles are tougher than that of a new vehicle sale in a sense, because market fluctuations, mileage, interior and exterior condition, engine condition, and trims and accessories can make a $10,000 vehicle a $15,000 vehicle, or conversely drop that price to $5,000. As the Manager of the Used Car lot at Freedom Chrysler, Jason was involved in the delicate procedure therein, while always standing by his guiding principle of putting the customer's needs first.
Before he was the Used Car Manager of Freedom Chrysler, Mobley was a Sales Consultant at Saturn of South Burlington [Vermont], another key component on his resume as Handy Chevrolet's Service Department is now an authorized dealer for Saturn and Pontiac repairs and warranty work. This gives Jason a leg up on the competition, and makes him an influence in our realm should a problem related to a Saturn vehicle arise.
When he's not working on putting customers in the best vehicle that fits their particular needs, income level, and desires, Jason enjoys spending time with the light of his life, his son Shane. "Spending time with my son is what I enjoy most," Mobley elaborates, "but I also enjoy being outdoors-hunting, fishing, hiking-I really enjoy these things." Jason is also a pretty elegant cuisinier who loves to spend some inside-time cooking for his son or company.
Another rarity you'll find in Jason Mobley's character is that he loves what he sells, a quality that really goes a long way in this business. When posed the question what Chevrolet model best personifies you? he is quick to respond: "Definitely the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Extended Cab Z-71 package with a four-inch lift!" Pushed to further explain this answer, he quips "not only is it my dream vehicle, but it's outgoing and optimistic-a vehicle that gets the job done!"
Yes, Jason Mobley will surely make (or has made) a fine addition to the Handy Chevrolet family and the Handy Family of Dealership's franchise on a whole. Whether it's his experience, his love for his cars, friends, family and son, or his optimistic outlook that causes such a tight fit within our group is uncertain, although it's probably the melting pot that is all these qualities. Whatever forms the root of his place in our company, it can surely be summed up by his last remark: "Under-promise, over-deliver-I pride myself on that mentality."
For more information on Jason Mobley, email Internet Manager Christopher Dugan at cdugan@handycars.com, email Jason directly at jmobley@sover.net, or click here to view the Handy Chevrolet Staff page.
Hence, it's not uncommon to see familiar faces or vague features; it's not beyond conventional practice to see someone stay at Handy Chevrolet or the Handy Family of Dealerships for 20 or more years just as it's equally likely to see someone come and go in a week. It's the nature of the fiend, and it certainly isn't a profession in which everyone fits the mold as a "perfect employee."
As familiar as we at Handy Chevrolet of St. Albans, Vermont are with this practice, we are just as shocked when a bona fide superstar joins our ranks from the unknown. This isn't to say that we expect people to fail in our organization-on the contrary, we've made a very hospitable and joyous work environment, from Owner Dan Handy to Sales Manager Pete Obuchon and right down the line-but it's the above mentioned adage that seems to prove true: with an extremely low turnover, it's no wonder you either serve a life sentence or you're destined for early release, of your own accord though it may be.
So you can imagine our great surprise when the resume flew through the window of our server with such a long list of accomplishments: Saturn of Burlington; Freedom Chrysler's Used Car Manager; a thirteen year track record as a great Sales Consultant and an outstanding four-plus years of service as Manager of Used Cars, which anyone will tell you certainly don't sell themselves.
As we pondered whether or not this was some joke or a piece of spam, the lighter side of the resume shone through: a dedicated family man, dreams and ambitions of doing good in the world, and an almost unbelievable poise (until you meet this man) with which his principles flow forth, to guide and insight power within his fellows.
This month, Handy Chevrolet of St. Albans, VT, part of the Handy Family of Dealerships, serving Northern Vermont, Burlington, Essex, and the Plattsburgh, New York area with new Chevrolet's, new Toyota's, and used cars of any make or model, proudly welcomes Certified Chevrolet Sales Consultant Jason Mobley into the fold by donning the title of Employee Spotlight of the Month upon him for the month of August, 2010.
Jason Mobley, born in Burlington, Vermont, has spent his whole life in the Green Mountain State. Since his birth 29 years ago, he has lived and worked in Vermont, not to mention having put a whole boatload of customers into their dream car-strike that-the perfect car.
"That's why I'm adamant about Sales Consultant, not Sales Person," he states in a matter-of-fact manner. "There's a distinct difference between the two. I pride myself on getting people in the perfect vehicle." When pressed to expand upon what this means to him, he continues: "well I'm not just in it for the Sale, i.e. a Sales Person. I want to make sure each car fits each customer, and fits them 110%. If they aren't 100% satisfied, then I'm not even 1% satisfied."
As stated, Mr. Mobley has a pretty thorough track record within the automotive industry and by all accounts nothing less than a superbly sterling reputation. Before this July when Jason started at Handy Chevrolet, he had been a Used Car Manager of four years at Freedom Chrysler of Burlington, Vermont, where he cut his jib in the delicate used vehicle market. Used vehicles are tougher than that of a new vehicle sale in a sense, because market fluctuations, mileage, interior and exterior condition, engine condition, and trims and accessories can make a $10,000 vehicle a $15,000 vehicle, or conversely drop that price to $5,000. As the Manager of the Used Car lot at Freedom Chrysler, Jason was involved in the delicate procedure therein, while always standing by his guiding principle of putting the customer's needs first.
Before he was the Used Car Manager of Freedom Chrysler, Mobley was a Sales Consultant at Saturn of South Burlington [Vermont], another key component on his resume as Handy Chevrolet's Service Department is now an authorized dealer for Saturn and Pontiac repairs and warranty work. This gives Jason a leg up on the competition, and makes him an influence in our realm should a problem related to a Saturn vehicle arise.
When he's not working on putting customers in the best vehicle that fits their particular needs, income level, and desires, Jason enjoys spending time with the light of his life, his son Shane. "Spending time with my son is what I enjoy most," Mobley elaborates, "but I also enjoy being outdoors-hunting, fishing, hiking-I really enjoy these things." Jason is also a pretty elegant cuisinier who loves to spend some inside-time cooking for his son or company.
Another rarity you'll find in Jason Mobley's character is that he loves what he sells, a quality that really goes a long way in this business. When posed the question what Chevrolet model best personifies you? he is quick to respond: "Definitely the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Extended Cab Z-71 package with a four-inch lift!" Pushed to further explain this answer, he quips "not only is it my dream vehicle, but it's outgoing and optimistic-a vehicle that gets the job done!"
Yes, Jason Mobley will surely make (or has made) a fine addition to the Handy Chevrolet family and the Handy Family of Dealership's franchise on a whole. Whether it's his experience, his love for his cars, friends, family and son, or his optimistic outlook that causes such a tight fit within our group is uncertain, although it's probably the melting pot that is all these qualities. Whatever forms the root of his place in our company, it can surely be summed up by his last remark: "Under-promise, over-deliver-I pride myself on that mentality."
For more information on Jason Mobley, email Internet Manager Christopher Dugan at cdugan@handycars.com, email Jason directly at jmobley@sover.net, or click here to view the Handy Chevrolet Staff page.
July 2010
Mario Nardelli
Chevrolet Sales Consultant
When Pete Obuchon, Sales Manager of Handy Chevrolet in St. Albans, Vermont said that Mario Nardelli was an interesting person, it was a flat out lie. Mr. Nardelli is not "interesting"-he is downright astoundingly fascinating. So buckle up for this month's Employee Spotlight, as we delve into a small fraction of that which makes up Mario Nardelli; from his upbringing to his rock and roll past as well as so many other jobs, activities, and amazing achievements, one would assume this is a piece of fiction. But no-this is all real; all Mario.
Thirty years ago, roughly 1980, Mario Nardelli said goodbye to his beloved parents, cousins, siblings, and all the rest of his family, which includes a large amount of friends, and departed from his home at the time in Montreal, PQ. But we all leave home at some point, right? Wrong; well we don't all leave home and travel 4,500 miles anyways. Years before making the jump to Quebec, with a lump in his throat and that gleam in one's eye that only sparkles when something tremendous is about to come to fruition has begun, Mario stepped out of his home in St Pietro (St. Peter), Caserta, Italy and made his way to the United States of America. Landing in charming, historical Quebec, Canada, Nardelli wasted little time making his move to (literal) stardom.
Before we get too far ahead of ourselves, it must be said that there makes no better Sales Consultant and hardly a better Father than a literal man-of-the-world like Mario. In fact, after seeing a rough draft of our interview's transcript he insisted that his son, Rico, be mentioned early on. Of all the joyous occasions on which Mario has celebrated, nothing compares to his fervent admiration for that of Rico and his consistent honor roll status in his California school.
Eight short years ago he became a Handy Chevrolet family member, thus enhancing the already gargantuan amount of kin to whom he feels related, and quickly became one of our dealership's most talented and respected Sales Consultants. What makes Mario Nardelli such a beloved member of the team is the infectious smile, sincere words of praise to each and every team member, customer, etc-this man just knows what people want to hear. And not in the superficial, sycophantic sense; no, Mario jumps deep into your brain with all the cunning of a top tier military reconnaissance team, finds your innermost joy, and somehow finds a way to describe why you excel at that particular field.
And when Mario tells you that you'll be great at something, you listen. Having a life revolving around music since the early days, second only to family of course, he has accrued some pretty ludicrous achievements in terms of magnitude and sheer scale, meaning they make you second guess the reality of what you hear. "What people need to know most about me, accomplishments is not what I'm about. I do have many, but it's my friends that make me who I am" he says with the utmost sincerity in his voice. "I have friends that what some would call 'bums'-you know, they are homeless or otherwise impoverished or what have you-but I also have friends that are millionaires. It's that kind of far-reaching spectrum, but not that specifically. What I mean to say is that I have such a diverse array of friends, and for that I'm the luckiest man on the Earth. Again, this is with all accomplishments aside."
Speaking in terms of contrivance it's not as though they have come few and far between. As a humble man of many talents, one is unable to keep but welling up with tears when you hear the youthful frivolity with which Mario reminisces about his heyday. "Well," he starts, obviously trying to order the myriad tales he could tell, "to start simply, I've been on the radio. I write my own music and sing, and one of those songs was in the top 200 nationally in 1981-judged by Steven Tyler [of Aerosmith] mind you!" Before we move on to more chronological accomplishments, the story Mario tells needs to get be heard: "I was on a circuit with Steven Tyler when I was a Light-man and Roadie for a band called Fox and Company. Tyler's band, Boots, was on the same tour as ours. His agent had been taking something like 20% out of the pockets of all the 15 bands he managed, so he was making more than the bands doing the actual work!" he yells with a reluctant laugh. "Tyler hit it big, and I remember him saying'-well, a few expletives! And he said 'I'll make my own money!' you know, now that he'd gotten a break!" and Mario laughs some more.
For those of you reading, you heard right: Mario Nardelli of little St. Albans, Vermont was once judged in a competition by the legendary Steven Tyler. Furthermore, Mario continues the tale about the song of which Tyler was the judge. "One part of the song had the lyrics 'the other side,' and then Tyler went off and made that line famous. I am NOT saying he stole it from me-just a curious coincidence!" However, the astonishing story of Mario Nardelli doesn't stop there. Most of us don't get blessed with musical prowess or singing ability, but Mario was given both. In fact not only did he have a top-200 song nationally but he won third place in a Chicago Radio Station Blues contest.
Nardelli also lived in Lincoln, New Hampshire at one point where he worked for the Indianhead Resort, a Smuggler's Notch-like resort during the summertime where folks go on a semi-camping excursion in the style of fancy cabins, local shops, and general self contained wares of all facets. Having honed his skills with the scissor/clipper combination as a Cosmetology Instructor and Salon Manager, Nardelli owned a salon at Indianhead Resort called "Mario of Indianhead," which he managed for five years. "Not only did I own my salon, but I did a little bit of everything: someone needs a bed made, you do it; someone needs you to play bartender for the evening, no problem. I even took guests on tours." Certainly this man of many different talents holds the title of a jack of all trades and has become, perhaps, a master of a few. During his five-year stint in NH, Mario also sang in front of one of the largest venues in which he'd ever performed live. Covering old Doors songs, Mr. Nardelli got up on stage and belted out the favorites over a 15-minute set in front of 1,200 screaming Doors fans.
When asked what all these fantastic voyages add up to, Mario gets serious. "Well, I'm blessed is what it equates to. I have a wonderful fiance, Shannon, who has been by my side for five years and I love her dearly. As I said, I also have friends from every end of the spectrum-from all walks of life. From traveling and performing over 15 years I've collected a great variety of real good friends, the kind you can call on the phone and they'll show up in a matter of hours to help you out in a jam or just for a party. And, again, there's my boy Rico who I'm ever so proud of. Of course recently I've also been afforded the luxury of working here [Handy Chevrolet] with a great group of people who are also well recognized. It's all a real treat, from my past to the present." It's not often you meat such a genuine person, and Mario's smile coupled with his vibrant stories light up the room.
When the question arises regarding which Chevrolet model from the current or past years best personifies him, Mario states "probably the new Tahoe. It's so versatile; it's comfortable and rugged enough to do a thousand things. Yeah, I'd say that's me!" he shouts as another infectious laugh ruptures from deep within his chest. Since he has family up in Montreal, Provence de Quebec, he speaks French as well as his native Italian, and of course English. His favorite television show is Hockey Night in Canada and he loves listening to CJAD 990 AM, a Canadian radio show called Hockey Talk and he is a Montreal Canadiens super-fan. For a man with so many goals already fulfilled, his future goals are quite simple yet equally touching: "I'd just like to get back to Italy for a visit. See my family-the large family I mean, not just immediate, but friends, cousins, second cousins-I'd like to get in touch with my roots. I would love to surround myself with that old culture-the dialect, the food, the art-all of it."
In all the interviews in the world, one never expects to come across an everyman that turns out to be such a diverse and amazingly likable fellow such as Mario Nardelli. For more information (Mario said he could talk all day), contact Chris Dugan at cdugan@handycars.com, or contact Mario directly at mariohco@sover.net. You can also check out more Employee bios on the About Us section of our website. Stay tuned for next month's Employee Spotlight, and if you have any suggestions send Chris Dugan an email and he'll pick their brain for you!
Brian Gamache
Chevrolet Internet Sales Consultant
There's no better employee to have as a Used Car Sales Consultant and Internet Manager than Brian Gamache, in particular due to his love for cars and all things technological. Brian has worked as a member of Handy Chevrolet since February of 2009, approaching a year and a half. He began his career with Handy's as a Sales Consultant, more recently moving into the realm of Internet Sales and Used Vehicle housed at Handy Chevrolet where he has remained for the past nine months.
Gamache, 30, was born in Burlington, Vermont, and currently resides in St. Albans. He has lived in Vermont his whole life, less a three-month stint elsewhere, and has a keen eye for the hot spots to drive his beloved Roadsters, which he says he sadly does not own any longer. Brian used to own a BMW Z4 Roadster, and still enjoys driving through the Mountains of New Hampshire and all over Vermont, especially in the summer time with the convertible roof dropped. "I also enjoy photography, cars in general, and I'm a huge 'tech-geek'" he says with a smile. "Well to be fair, there is a large spectrum of 'tech-geeks,' I guess I'm on the relatively light side of it!" he continues, laughing a bit. "But yea, I'm into all things 'tech'."
When asked which current or past Chevrolet model best represents his characteristics, he ponders the question. "Hmm, I wish I had got this questionnaire an hour ago to prepare," he thinks with a gleam to his eyes. "I guess I'd have to say the Camaro SS. One SS though, not the 2SS? I'm all speed, no extra toys-and you can quote me on that!" he jokes. I push on to ask which car of any make he would want the most if he could be given (another) free vehicle, and he is quick to decide: "a BMW M3, or something sporty like that, some kind of high-end, sporty Beamer." He continues after a moment saying "something that goes fast-but not just fast, something with good control when it hits those high speeds. Yeah, I guess an M3." As anyone that knows Brian will tell you, this gentlemen is certainly fond of his Bavarian performance machines.
While taking to Mr. Gamache, we discussed an interesting story. "When I was 19, back in 1999," he reminisced, "I won a trip to Las Vegas. Not only that, but I got to bring my best friend Phil along for the ride. So I win a trip to Vegas, and guess what? I get out there, and Saab and General Motors were having a contest to give away a new Saab 9-5, and in 1999 they released the 9-5 with a V6 engine. I was there [Vegas] because I won a contest, and then I win a free car!" he starts chuckling, clearly thinking of the good times with his best bud as they caused a ruckus out west in Sin City. "Yeah, it was a great trip; we saw the Hoover Dam, we got to see great, famous acts like Siegfried and Roy. But what you don't know until you win something like this free car a free trip, and the Bevins' [recent winners of a free 2010 Malibu LTZ at Handy Chevrolet] will attest to this, is that you get hit-and hit hard-on taxes. I had about $40k worth of "free" stuff that ended up costing me almost $15k come tax time!" he laughs, obviously seeing the humorous side now that the shock has worn off. "That's something they don't tell you of course!" he finishes.
So if any of you out there need advice on a Roadster, enjoy BMWs and high-performance vehicles, want to chat about technology, or if you're in need of a great used vehicle of just about any make or model, Brian Gamache is the guy to talk to, having a lengthy resume in each facet. For more information on Brian, keep up with his Tuesday blogs on the Official Chevrolet Blog Page. Or just send him an email and ask; he's always willing to help in any way he can with a great big smile on his face.
Gamache, 30, was born in Burlington, Vermont, and currently resides in St. Albans. He has lived in Vermont his whole life, less a three-month stint elsewhere, and has a keen eye for the hot spots to drive his beloved Roadsters, which he says he sadly does not own any longer. Brian used to own a BMW Z4 Roadster, and still enjoys driving through the Mountains of New Hampshire and all over Vermont, especially in the summer time with the convertible roof dropped. "I also enjoy photography, cars in general, and I'm a huge 'tech-geek'" he says with a smile. "Well to be fair, there is a large spectrum of 'tech-geeks,' I guess I'm on the relatively light side of it!" he continues, laughing a bit. "But yea, I'm into all things 'tech'."
When asked which current or past Chevrolet model best represents his characteristics, he ponders the question. "Hmm, I wish I had got this questionnaire an hour ago to prepare," he thinks with a gleam to his eyes. "I guess I'd have to say the Camaro SS. One SS though, not the 2SS? I'm all speed, no extra toys-and you can quote me on that!" he jokes. I push on to ask which car of any make he would want the most if he could be given (another) free vehicle, and he is quick to decide: "a BMW M3, or something sporty like that, some kind of high-end, sporty Beamer." He continues after a moment saying "something that goes fast-but not just fast, something with good control when it hits those high speeds. Yeah, I guess an M3." As anyone that knows Brian will tell you, this gentlemen is certainly fond of his Bavarian performance machines.
While taking to Mr. Gamache, we discussed an interesting story. "When I was 19, back in 1999," he reminisced, "I won a trip to Las Vegas. Not only that, but I got to bring my best friend Phil along for the ride. So I win a trip to Vegas, and guess what? I get out there, and Saab and General Motors were having a contest to give away a new Saab 9-5, and in 1999 they released the 9-5 with a V6 engine. I was there [Vegas] because I won a contest, and then I win a free car!" he starts chuckling, clearly thinking of the good times with his best bud as they caused a ruckus out west in Sin City. "Yeah, it was a great trip; we saw the Hoover Dam, we got to see great, famous acts like Siegfried and Roy. But what you don't know until you win something like this free car a free trip, and the Bevins' [recent winners of a free 2010 Malibu LTZ at Handy Chevrolet] will attest to this, is that you get hit-and hit hard-on taxes. I had about $40k worth of "free" stuff that ended up costing me almost $15k come tax time!" he laughs, obviously seeing the humorous side now that the shock has worn off. "That's something they don't tell you of course!" he finishes.
So if any of you out there need advice on a Roadster, enjoy BMWs and high-performance vehicles, want to chat about technology, or if you're in need of a great used vehicle of just about any make or model, Brian Gamache is the guy to talk to, having a lengthy resume in each facet. For more information on Brian, keep up with his Tuesday blogs on the Official Chevrolet Blog Page. Or just send him an email and ask; he's always willing to help in any way he can with a great big smile on his face.
May 2010
John Michael Bushey
Chevrolet Sales Consultant
John Michael Bushey, or Mike Bushey as he is known to his friends, family, and clients, has been in the car business his whole working life. He remembers the days when a pack of gum cost a nickel, when high-paid Salesmen (yes, they were Salesmen not Sales Consultants) were paid $5 a day, and he fondly remembers those times and the quick change of pace of the present.
Born and raised in St. Albans, Vermont, Mike has been a true Vermonter his whole life, living and working here as well as starting his family. He loves bowling and baseball and he is a food connoisseur like none other. Although he has been in the car business for 46 exciting years, he started with Handy Chevrolet in 1992, making him a 19 year veteran of our company. Currently a Sales Consultant at Handy Chevrolet, over his illustrious career he has been Sales Manager as well, though having 46 years of experience it is really no surprise. When asked what Chevrolet vehicle he sells or has sold best personifies his character, he smirks and says "the Impala: it's well built and the best in the market!"
"I've also been with the same wife for 46 years" he jokes. "Her father taught me the Auto Business; he gave me a better education than I could have ever received in school, just from the practicality of the training. I've also known the Handy's for 50 years or more, and Floyd Handy was a heck of a teacher, too" Mike says, very sincerely, with a glimmer of reverence for both Mr. Benoit and Mr. Handy, father-in-law and original owner of Handy's, respectively.
Mr. Bushey recently added another fantastic experience to his automotive sales record, as he was involved in arranging a meeting that led to a local couple winning a brand new 2010 Chevrolet Malibu! "I was actually having dinner, as I said I love food!" he starts, chuckling. "As a Salesman, you're always working, regardless of where you are; always building rapport and-well-friends. I was dining at Jeff's Seafood here in St. Albans, when these folks that had been speaking with me about a new car came up and shook hands. I urged them to enter the GM sweepstakes for the new Malibu, and he and his wife obliged. And you know what? She won it!" he shouts, obviously delighted to have initiated this for the winning couple. "That's what it's all about for me: the customers. Welcoming them is paramount, making them feel welcome. They don't want to come in here and be sold a car-they want sincerity." Given Mike's sales record, one would think he's learned a thing or two over the 46 year history.
He continues to ponder his career. "And you know, nothing's changed for me. GM makes the product, and makes it the same for all GM dealers. It's us, the dealers, the employees, etc. that is being sold. Anyone can sell a car: but can you sell yourself?" He makes an interesting case, one that escapes far too many people in sales of any industry. "The way I always think of it," he continues "is this: you go to a restaurant and the server is a jerk. You don't feel comfortable, and you most likely won't go back. It's the same in the car business. Communication with the customer, giving them that warm welcome, being loyal and sincere-that's what it's about." Take a note folks; that's 46 years of wisdom conveyed in a single digestible statement.
When asked about retirement, it seems to be a passing fancy to Mike Bushey, who is living in the moment. "I'm enjoying 'pre-retirement'" he laughs, "but when that day comes, I'm getting myself a Cadillac, my dream car, and nothing will change!" Well hopefully nothing does change, and we hope to have Mike around for years to come, imparting wisdom, exemplifying commitment to the customer, and showing us all the value of a genuine smile. Mike Bushey may be experienced, but there is plenty more to be had for a man with such a young heart.
Born and raised in St. Albans, Vermont, Mike has been a true Vermonter his whole life, living and working here as well as starting his family. He loves bowling and baseball and he is a food connoisseur like none other. Although he has been in the car business for 46 exciting years, he started with Handy Chevrolet in 1992, making him a 19 year veteran of our company. Currently a Sales Consultant at Handy Chevrolet, over his illustrious career he has been Sales Manager as well, though having 46 years of experience it is really no surprise. When asked what Chevrolet vehicle he sells or has sold best personifies his character, he smirks and says "the Impala: it's well built and the best in the market!"
"I've also been with the same wife for 46 years" he jokes. "Her father taught me the Auto Business; he gave me a better education than I could have ever received in school, just from the practicality of the training. I've also known the Handy's for 50 years or more, and Floyd Handy was a heck of a teacher, too" Mike says, very sincerely, with a glimmer of reverence for both Mr. Benoit and Mr. Handy, father-in-law and original owner of Handy's, respectively.
Mr. Bushey recently added another fantastic experience to his automotive sales record, as he was involved in arranging a meeting that led to a local couple winning a brand new 2010 Chevrolet Malibu! "I was actually having dinner, as I said I love food!" he starts, chuckling. "As a Salesman, you're always working, regardless of where you are; always building rapport and-well-friends. I was dining at Jeff's Seafood here in St. Albans, when these folks that had been speaking with me about a new car came up and shook hands. I urged them to enter the GM sweepstakes for the new Malibu, and he and his wife obliged. And you know what? She won it!" he shouts, obviously delighted to have initiated this for the winning couple. "That's what it's all about for me: the customers. Welcoming them is paramount, making them feel welcome. They don't want to come in here and be sold a car-they want sincerity." Given Mike's sales record, one would think he's learned a thing or two over the 46 year history.
He continues to ponder his career. "And you know, nothing's changed for me. GM makes the product, and makes it the same for all GM dealers. It's us, the dealers, the employees, etc. that is being sold. Anyone can sell a car: but can you sell yourself?" He makes an interesting case, one that escapes far too many people in sales of any industry. "The way I always think of it," he continues "is this: you go to a restaurant and the server is a jerk. You don't feel comfortable, and you most likely won't go back. It's the same in the car business. Communication with the customer, giving them that warm welcome, being loyal and sincere-that's what it's about." Take a note folks; that's 46 years of wisdom conveyed in a single digestible statement.
When asked about retirement, it seems to be a passing fancy to Mike Bushey, who is living in the moment. "I'm enjoying 'pre-retirement'" he laughs, "but when that day comes, I'm getting myself a Cadillac, my dream car, and nothing will change!" Well hopefully nothing does change, and we hope to have Mike around for years to come, imparting wisdom, exemplifying commitment to the customer, and showing us all the value of a genuine smile. Mike Bushey may be experienced, but there is plenty more to be had for a man with such a young heart.