VanDerZee Motorplex is at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids for the Boat Show! Show dates are Wednesday the 15th through Sunday the 19th. We've got all of the new 2012 Kawasaki Jet Skis and Yamaha Waverunners. Folks in Michigan look forward to boating season more than any other area. We are so blessed not only with Lake Michigan but all of the great inland lakes. We have clients in 47 of the states and many come to the Motorplex to take delivery of their watercraft. A few years ago we had a couple drive up from South Haven, Mississippi to pick up their purchase. The husband came in our front door and said "We've been lookin' for this big Lake you talk about but haven't seen it from the highway!" I told him that he just needed to take Phoenix Street and head west 1 mile and he would be right on the beach. He completed his transaction, loaded up, we said our goodbye and he and his wife headed home. About an hour later he came back to the Motorplex. I thought that he had an issue with his purchase and went to his vehicle to see what his concern was. He rolled down his window and said " Son, I just wanted to come back and tell you we at our lunch down at the beach and I want to tell you, that ain't no Lake, that's a dang OCEAN!"
The Grand Rapids Boat Show is very important to us as it kicks off our watercraft season and sets the tone for the entire year. Both Kawasaki and Yamaha reward us by offering exclusive Grand Rapids Boat Show incentives. We are always amazed when folks come to our display, see our VanDerZee Motorplex in South Haven sign and say that they love coming to South Haven. We may be a little town of 5,000 folks, but we sure are known as a great area to visit. It is also wonderful to see all of the families at the show. Boating truly is a family experience and personal watercraft sure do the job of entertaining everyone. Yesterday was the first day of the show and one family came by with their 3 daughters looking at Waverunners. They were considering a 24 foot runabout or two personal watercraft. The Dad said that if they purchased a Waverunner or Jet Ski that his girls could drive it and that would probably bring a lot of their friends into the picture, too. He just thought that they might have more fun on a "bigger" boat. Then I brought up one of the biggest differences between a 24 foot runabout and a personal watercraft. I said if you purchase one or two Waverunners or Jet Skis, your entire family and friends can all drive or "participate" out on the lake. If you have a 24 footer, I highly doubt that you'll let anyone take the helm. He hadn't thought about it that way and thanked me for the point of view. I hope that before the weekend is over we can win him over. By the look on his daughter's faces, I think our Waverunner idea got a lot of support. We'll see what happens.
Come see us in Grand Rapids. It's a whole lotta' work but when folks see the owner's of the business at the show they truly get a sense of the passion we have for personal watercraft. Linda and I are committed to "manning the booth" every hour of the show. This is my time of year!!
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
2012 Yamaha Waverunners have arrived at the Motorplex
When personal watercraft are a HUGE part of your business snow and cold can be depressing! I think that the lack of snow this winter has started folks thinking "spring" a lot earlier than last year! Our pre-sales and inquiries a WAY AHEAD of last year's pace and we couldn't be happier. Our Grand Rapids Boat Show is right around the corner, too, running February 15th through the 19th.
Our 2012 Yamaha lineup features the ALL NEW FX series, the most luxurious personal watercraft on the market! The FX series features all new styling, first time features and some industry firsts! When we present a FX SHO CRUISER to our clients, we can tell that they appreciate the attention to detail that Yamaha puts into this Waverunner. On the outside it is metallic paint, 2 tone rub rails, hydro turf, retractable cleats and the first ever Theater styled seating for 3. And it's not just what you see on the outside! Under the seat there is a fully "dressed" engine compartment. You won't see wire harnesses "hanging" or excess glue squirming out like the competition! If you are craving top of the line features, quality and reliability the 1800cc supercharged powered Yamaha FX SHO Cruiser is for you! Take a look at the video of our first one to arrive at the Motorplex! Come in and and take a look BEFORE we head to Grand Rapids! We'll even fill you in on our EXCLUSIVE Grand Rapids Boat Show incentives! Remember, the EARLY BIRD gets the worm!
Come to the Motorplex today in South Haven. We would love to show you all that is new for 2012 in our great lineup of Yamaha Waverunners and Kawasaki Jet Skis. Visit us on the web at http://www.vanderzeemotorplex.com/. Be ready to be amazed!
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
VanDerZee Motorplex APPRECIATES our great clients!
Being a former General Motors dealer, it would always rile me up when the news media would come up with their "most stressful" shopping lists. One year the report said that most folks would rather go to the dentist than shop for a car! My dad always told me "you earn your reputation so remember how important it is to take care of customers!" We have one important rule at the Motorplex: The most important person in the Motorplex is the one who just came through our front door! You see, growing up in the auto industry I learned of a "sixth sense" that every car sales person posesses. Before a prospect gets out of their car, every lurking salesperson knows: if they can buy, how much they owe on their trade in, what their credit score is, and if they are just wasting time at the dealership.
At VanDerZee Motorplex we truly respect the fact that you chose to visit our dealership and spend time with us. We know that you most likely have done research on the Internet not only about our products, but about our reputation as well. You have expectations of us that can range from how you are greeted to the comfort factor that you have with the Motorplex Team. We took all of these factors into account when we built the Motorplex. No one will demand to know " what can I sell ya today" or claim that "I'm gonna give you a deal I wouldn't offer my Grandmother!" You will not be cornered in a little closing booth and pressured to make a decision. The Motorplex Team works at your pace, not ours. We truly do want to earn your business. In our 21 years as a South Haven powersports dealership we have built wonderful relationships with so many diverse clients. I think my dad would be pretty proud of us.
Our clients are great folks and we appreciate the opportunity to provide them with fun powersports products for the entire family. The Motorplex team thanks you for your business!
At VanDerZee Motorplex we truly respect the fact that you chose to visit our dealership and spend time with us. We know that you most likely have done research on the Internet not only about our products, but about our reputation as well. You have expectations of us that can range from how you are greeted to the comfort factor that you have with the Motorplex Team. We took all of these factors into account when we built the Motorplex. No one will demand to know " what can I sell ya today" or claim that "I'm gonna give you a deal I wouldn't offer my Grandmother!" You will not be cornered in a little closing booth and pressured to make a decision. The Motorplex Team works at your pace, not ours. We truly do want to earn your business. In our 21 years as a South Haven powersports dealership we have built wonderful relationships with so many diverse clients. I think my dad would be pretty proud of us.
Our clients are great folks and we appreciate the opportunity to provide them with fun powersports products for the entire family. The Motorplex team thanks you for your business!
Friday, January 13, 2012
Tesla Trouble? What will Washington do???
The news today is not good for Tesla Motors, you know, the folks waiting to launch their S line electric sedan? Just months before the long heralded start of production, the company announced the departure of their Chief Engineer and the Director of Chassis and Engineering? No matter how you paint it, that can't be good news. Isn't this a company that has never produced or engineered a vehicle from the ground up? One would think that this is a very critical stage for a car with promised production right around the corner? Investors didn't think so either as the stock dropped 19% on the news. I don't recall how much of our tax dollars are loaded into this one, but I'm sure the concerns of yet another "alternative" industry shows signs of trouble.
We all need to share environmental responsibilty. Just look at the improvements made with internal combustion engines in the last 20 years. Small displacement 4 cylinders are the current focus of the auto industry for economy with more than sufficient power. A Chevy Cruze will get nearly 40mpg on the highway with a 20K price. It is a vehicle that will need minimal maintenance over a 5 year / 100,000 mile lifespan. Is a $43,000 Volt a better buy? While it is truly an innovative, quality vehicle, it's not an economical family "daily driver" based cost and projected, even unknown, maintenance. It is also propped up with a $7,500 tax credit. When your son or daughter is ready for that "first" car, will you invest in a 5 year old Cruze with 100,000 miles or a Volt? I like the odds with the Cruze. Interesting times for the auto industry. Let's see how this Tesla news plays out with Washington DC.
We all need to share environmental responsibilty. Just look at the improvements made with internal combustion engines in the last 20 years. Small displacement 4 cylinders are the current focus of the auto industry for economy with more than sufficient power. A Chevy Cruze will get nearly 40mpg on the highway with a 20K price. It is a vehicle that will need minimal maintenance over a 5 year / 100,000 mile lifespan. Is a $43,000 Volt a better buy? While it is truly an innovative, quality vehicle, it's not an economical family "daily driver" based cost and projected, even unknown, maintenance. It is also propped up with a $7,500 tax credit. When your son or daughter is ready for that "first" car, will you invest in a 5 year old Cruze with 100,000 miles or a Volt? I like the odds with the Cruze. Interesting times for the auto industry. Let's see how this Tesla news plays out with Washington DC.
Are we getting SOFT about winter weather?
I've lived in Michigan all of my life. A wise man once told me that if you live in Michigan the four seasons are dramatic. Each has its own way of affecting our lives. He said, you don't have to LIKE all four seasons, but you'd better be able to tolerate the ones you don't like. The Motorplex sells every powersports vehicle except one: snow machines. I guess part of the reason is that I really don't embrace cold weather! The other part is economics. It just doesn't snow as much in West Michigan as it used to. Our motto is: "There's always water in Michigan. It might not be WARM water, but there is always water!" Snow machine folks sometimes have to drive north hundreds of miles just to find snow cover. That brings me to one of my pet peeves: Over reactive weather forecasters!
Have you noticed that whenever snow is predicted it comes with great fanfare by the media. Winter storm watch; winter storm warning; Lake effect warning; Blizzard warning. Just today, South Haven was to be the "hot spot" with up to 16" of snow predicted. Any responsible South Haven resident who didn't rush to the store for bread, milk and toilet paper was sure to be caught "unprepared" by the impending, paralyzing onslaught of snow! The 11:00pm news last night had "team coverage" of 2nd storm of the season. One eager reporter was set up along side of US-131 citing how she observed that the snow flakes seemed to be getting larger as the storm covered all of West Michigan. It was amusing as the camera panned to the expressway, cars were traveling by on wet pavement and cruising at 60 to 70 mph! She did make a nice snow man, though, and asked viewers to send in more photos of their creations. Next we were told that roadways were snow covered and slippery and that the morning commute would be a hum dinger! Let's see. We live in Michigan, beside a big, warm lake, and it snows. THAT certainly is "breaking" news. With earth shattering wisdom, the news crew advised that if we MUST go outside, we were to slow down and take extra time for our travels! What a revelation. Not that's what I call useful news coverage.
A local TV weatherman's blog was describing in detail the approaching storm. He said conditions would deteriorate in the late afternoon with falling temps and snow. A person responded and asked if she should change here 3:30pm doctor's appointment or did he think that the "storm" would hold off 'til later in the day? In this day of "instant" news coverage, one would think that Mother Nature would be prompt and keep her "appointments"! My grandfather would only say "your generation has gone soft". It's Michigan. It's winter. You dress warm, you shovel, you plow and if at all possible use some common sense. PURE MICHIGAN! Enjoy the pure, fresh beauty of new fallen snow.
Have you noticed that whenever snow is predicted it comes with great fanfare by the media. Winter storm watch; winter storm warning; Lake effect warning; Blizzard warning. Just today, South Haven was to be the "hot spot" with up to 16" of snow predicted. Any responsible South Haven resident who didn't rush to the store for bread, milk and toilet paper was sure to be caught "unprepared" by the impending, paralyzing onslaught of snow! The 11:00pm news last night had "team coverage" of 2nd storm of the season. One eager reporter was set up along side of US-131 citing how she observed that the snow flakes seemed to be getting larger as the storm covered all of West Michigan. It was amusing as the camera panned to the expressway, cars were traveling by on wet pavement and cruising at 60 to 70 mph! She did make a nice snow man, though, and asked viewers to send in more photos of their creations. Next we were told that roadways were snow covered and slippery and that the morning commute would be a hum dinger! Let's see. We live in Michigan, beside a big, warm lake, and it snows. THAT certainly is "breaking" news. With earth shattering wisdom, the news crew advised that if we MUST go outside, we were to slow down and take extra time for our travels! What a revelation. Not that's what I call useful news coverage.
A local TV weatherman's blog was describing in detail the approaching storm. He said conditions would deteriorate in the late afternoon with falling temps and snow. A person responded and asked if she should change here 3:30pm doctor's appointment or did he think that the "storm" would hold off 'til later in the day? In this day of "instant" news coverage, one would think that Mother Nature would be prompt and keep her "appointments"! My grandfather would only say "your generation has gone soft". It's Michigan. It's winter. You dress warm, you shovel, you plow and if at all possible use some common sense. PURE MICHIGAN! Enjoy the pure, fresh beauty of new fallen snow.
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Grand Rapids Boat Show is HERE!
There is no more SURE SIGN of SPRING than the Grand Rapids Boat Show! The VanDerZee Motorplex display is open at Devos Place in downtown Grand Rapids! It is the debut of the ALL NEW 2011 Kawasaki Ultra 300X, a 300 horsepower Jet Ski. The Ultra 300X can only be seen at the Motorplex display. Kawasaki shipped a pre-production unit to us just for this show!
The show opened at 3:00pm this afternoon and the traffic is already heavy. Folks have had enough of winter and are showing confidence that things in West Michigan are getting better. What better way to have family fun than a new Kawasaki Jet Ski or Yamaha Waverunner from VanDerZee Motorplex. We are excited to be here and have already sold our first unit of the show! If you want to talk with some personal watercraft FANATICS, then the VanDerZee Motorplex display is the place to be today through Sunday.
Kawasaki and Yamaha have given us EXCLUSIVE Grand Rapids Boat Show incentives. Purchase your new Yamaha Waverunner at the show and you'll get 5 years of warranty at NO CHARGE! Kawasaki has given us our strongest incentives of the year including the 2011 models. We have our 2010 Kawasaki STX 15F rider education units on sale too. The values of the Show are at VanDerZee Motorplex.
COME JOIN THE FUN. SPRING IN JUST 33 DAYS!!!!
The show opened at 3:00pm this afternoon and the traffic is already heavy. Folks have had enough of winter and are showing confidence that things in West Michigan are getting better. What better way to have family fun than a new Kawasaki Jet Ski or Yamaha Waverunner from VanDerZee Motorplex. We are excited to be here and have already sold our first unit of the show! If you want to talk with some personal watercraft FANATICS, then the VanDerZee Motorplex display is the place to be today through Sunday.
Kawasaki and Yamaha have given us EXCLUSIVE Grand Rapids Boat Show incentives. Purchase your new Yamaha Waverunner at the show and you'll get 5 years of warranty at NO CHARGE! Kawasaki has given us our strongest incentives of the year including the 2011 models. We have our 2010 Kawasaki STX 15F rider education units on sale too. The values of the Show are at VanDerZee Motorplex.
COME JOIN THE FUN. SPRING IN JUST 33 DAYS!!!!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Christmas Perspective
Just a week until Christmas! It is a time to reflect the past 12 months. My greatest observation is that as I get older, the time goes by faster. Christmas is also a time when people seem to smile more and say kind things. I think that most of us are a bit more relaxed and easy going this time of year. Maybe it's the Christmas music playing at the Motorplex? By the way, have any "classic" Christmas songs been recorded the the last 10 years? Just give me Bing and White Christmas and I'm all set. Throw in Miracle on 34th Street, It's a Wonderful Life, White Christmas, Holiday Inn and Christmas Vacation and I'll be content for a long time.
The economy has really hit families hard this year making Christmas shopping a tall task. My daughter Megan and her husband Matt adopted a family for Christmas. When the mother listed home cleaning supplies as her wish, it really had an impact on how just how hard it is to get by right now. We may complain that being in business is hard in this economy but when you see how many families are truly struggling to get by, the real meaning of Christmas comes through.
My wife and I are truly blessed by a tremendous family. Our 3 girls and our 2 sons-in-law are the greatest reason to be thankful. I know that I'll receive some wonderful gifts this year. I also know that they will have made Christmas happen for 3 less fortunate families. Just knowing that somewhere a little guy or gal is opening a present on Christmas Day, who might not have had a single gift otherwise, is a feeling that will last a lifetime.
I thank my daughters for the gift of compassion. Merry Christmas Everyone!
The economy has really hit families hard this year making Christmas shopping a tall task. My daughter Megan and her husband Matt adopted a family for Christmas. When the mother listed home cleaning supplies as her wish, it really had an impact on how just how hard it is to get by right now. We may complain that being in business is hard in this economy but when you see how many families are truly struggling to get by, the real meaning of Christmas comes through.
My wife and I are truly blessed by a tremendous family. Our 3 girls and our 2 sons-in-law are the greatest reason to be thankful. I know that I'll receive some wonderful gifts this year. I also know that they will have made Christmas happen for 3 less fortunate families. Just knowing that somewhere a little guy or gal is opening a present on Christmas Day, who might not have had a single gift otherwise, is a feeling that will last a lifetime.
I thank my daughters for the gift of compassion. Merry Christmas Everyone!
Monday, November 29, 2010
A DECEMBER TO REMEMBER SALE at the MOTORPLEX
The Christmas Season is here and VanDerZee Motorplex announces our STOREWIDE CLEARANCE SALE! We have gift ideas for the WHOLE FAMILY from clothing and accessories to the "BIG ONES": Personal Watercraft * Motorcycles * ATV's * Scooters * Utility Vehicles * Recreational Vehicles. Every new Kawasaki and Yamaha is ON SALE during our DECEMBER TO REMEMBER SALE!
So many parents and grand parents come to the Motorplex and tell us "We want something that will bring the kids home?" We can tell you that a new Kawasaki Jet Ski or Yamaha Waverunner will do the trick! When our 3 daughters were growing up, Sundays were Jet Ski days at the beach. Sure, we'd have a whole bunch of their friends come too but what great FAMILY FUN. We knew who their friends were, what they were doing and best of all they had a GREAT TIME riding and driving personal watercraft. If you own a 21 foot or bigger runabout, you probably would not consider letting someone else take it for a drive. That is the joy of personal watercraft. They are spontaneous and responsible riding is easy! You can tow water skiers, wake boarders and multiple passenger tubes.
This Christmas choose the gift for everyone in the family, a new KAWASAKI JET SKI or YAMAHA WAVERUNNER. All 4 strokes, all 3 seaters and best of all they are ALL ON SALE. We'll even store your purchase 'til spring at no charge. We've even come up with some unique ways to "wrap" your purchase for Christmas with special photos or other "sneaky" ways to surprise the family. As my daughter Megan always reminds me, "You can't put a price on FAMILY!"
So many parents and grand parents come to the Motorplex and tell us "We want something that will bring the kids home?" We can tell you that a new Kawasaki Jet Ski or Yamaha Waverunner will do the trick! When our 3 daughters were growing up, Sundays were Jet Ski days at the beach. Sure, we'd have a whole bunch of their friends come too but what great FAMILY FUN. We knew who their friends were, what they were doing and best of all they had a GREAT TIME riding and driving personal watercraft. If you own a 21 foot or bigger runabout, you probably would not consider letting someone else take it for a drive. That is the joy of personal watercraft. They are spontaneous and responsible riding is easy! You can tow water skiers, wake boarders and multiple passenger tubes.
This Christmas choose the gift for everyone in the family, a new KAWASAKI JET SKI or YAMAHA WAVERUNNER. All 4 strokes, all 3 seaters and best of all they are ALL ON SALE. We'll even store your purchase 'til spring at no charge. We've even come up with some unique ways to "wrap" your purchase for Christmas with special photos or other "sneaky" ways to surprise the family. As my daughter Megan always reminds me, "You can't put a price on FAMILY!"
Monday, November 22, 2010
Saving Grace at Thanksgiving
Our family started a tradition years ago when everyone was seated at the Thanksgiving table and ready to begin the turkey day celebration. We go around the table and ask everyone to say what they are personally thankful for. It was awkward at first, but as time has gone by we have gotten some very heartfelt and memorable responses. We truly do live in a country of boundless opportunity. Just one trip to a 3rd world country makes you realize how fortunate we are to live in this country! For all of our faults and what we perceive as huge problems, we truly do have a lot to be thankful for!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
New at the Motorplex!!
This was a wonderfully busy summer season that just flew by! The Motorplex continues to evolve with the times. There have been some exciting changes and additions to the Motorplex.
We are completely remodeling our web page www.vanderzeemotorplex.com to offer DIRECT ONLINE PURCHASES of Kawasaki and Yamaha parts and accessories. We'll also offer you much more information on things such as our new and pre-owned inventory, service specials and links to our social pages on Facebook and this blog! We will also offer weekly emails with exclusive money saving offers. If you are not currently on our list, just send an email to:sales@vanderzeemotorplex.com and we'll do the rest!
We have added KYMCO scooters and ATV's. Kymco is a well respected manufacturer of 50cc to 400cc scooters as well as ATV's. Our product offerings now include KAWASAKI motorcycles, atv's, Mule utility vehicles, Teryx recreational vehicles, and, of course Jet Ski watercraft * Yamaha Waverunners * Schwinn Scooters * Kymco Scooters and Pre-Owned cars and trucks *
Take ADVANTAGE of our STORE WIDE MODEL YEAR END FINAL CLEARANCE SALE on every new 2009 and 2010 in stock! Special finance rates as low as 4.0% makes this a great time to buy at our lowest prices of the year!
Our service department offers expert, certified work for your powersports or automotive needs with VALUE PRICING! Bring your vehicle to the Motorplex for oil changes, brakes, exhaust and electronics. We offer ALL MAJOR BRANDS of new tires for your toy or auto! We'll even WASH your vehicle at NO CHARGE with any service work performed!
We offer personal watercraft winterizing, shrink wrap and storage! Motorcycle and scooters need to be winterized in the off season too including the all important battery tender! Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your machine will be ready when spring arrives!
Christmas shopping time is here and the Motorplex is the place to find that special gift! It may be a snow plow for your atv or some chrome for your bike. Did you know that we carry O'Brien inflatables? We have a great selection of clothing, too: hats * gloves * hooded sweatshirts * rain gear * wet suits * t shirts * leather jackets * leather vests * chaps * boots. We even have Kawasaki cordless tools of all types! There's a lot to see at the Motorplex!
Remember, Saturdays at the Motorplex mean FREE HOT DOGS and COCA COLA from 11:00am to 3:00pm! Bring the whole family for the best dogs in town. Who can turn down FREE FOOD??
Please come to the Motorplex and see all that is new! We're confident that no one will try harder to earn your business! Thanks for the visit. We hope to see you at the Motorplex!
We are completely remodeling our web page www.vanderzeemotorplex.com to offer DIRECT ONLINE PURCHASES of Kawasaki and Yamaha parts and accessories. We'll also offer you much more information on things such as our new and pre-owned inventory, service specials and links to our social pages on Facebook and this blog! We will also offer weekly emails with exclusive money saving offers. If you are not currently on our list, just send an email to:sales@vanderzeemotorplex.com and we'll do the rest!
We have added KYMCO scooters and ATV's. Kymco is a well respected manufacturer of 50cc to 400cc scooters as well as ATV's. Our product offerings now include KAWASAKI motorcycles, atv's, Mule utility vehicles, Teryx recreational vehicles, and, of course Jet Ski watercraft * Yamaha Waverunners * Schwinn Scooters * Kymco Scooters and Pre-Owned cars and trucks *
Take ADVANTAGE of our STORE WIDE MODEL YEAR END FINAL CLEARANCE SALE on every new 2009 and 2010 in stock! Special finance rates as low as 4.0% makes this a great time to buy at our lowest prices of the year!
Our service department offers expert, certified work for your powersports or automotive needs with VALUE PRICING! Bring your vehicle to the Motorplex for oil changes, brakes, exhaust and electronics. We offer ALL MAJOR BRANDS of new tires for your toy or auto! We'll even WASH your vehicle at NO CHARGE with any service work performed!
We offer personal watercraft winterizing, shrink wrap and storage! Motorcycle and scooters need to be winterized in the off season too including the all important battery tender! Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that your machine will be ready when spring arrives!
Christmas shopping time is here and the Motorplex is the place to find that special gift! It may be a snow plow for your atv or some chrome for your bike. Did you know that we carry O'Brien inflatables? We have a great selection of clothing, too: hats * gloves * hooded sweatshirts * rain gear * wet suits * t shirts * leather jackets * leather vests * chaps * boots. We even have Kawasaki cordless tools of all types! There's a lot to see at the Motorplex!
Remember, Saturdays at the Motorplex mean FREE HOT DOGS and COCA COLA from 11:00am to 3:00pm! Bring the whole family for the best dogs in town. Who can turn down FREE FOOD??
Please come to the Motorplex and see all that is new! We're confident that no one will try harder to earn your business! Thanks for the visit. We hope to see you at the Motorplex!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Grand Rapids Ultimate Sports Show
This is a new venue for VanDerZee Motorplex. The Ultimate Sports Show at DeVos Place in Grand Rapids is going on this Thursday, March 18th through Sunday. We have Kawasaki Mule Utility Vehicles, ATV's, and Teryx Recreational Vehicles. Last month was the very successful Grand Rapids Boat Show where we displayed our Kawasaki Jet Skis and Yamaha Waverunners. The Ultimate Sports Show is geared toward the avid outdoorsman. We didn't know what kind of crowd to expect but when I saw the folks waiting for the show to open flow out of the building I got excited. This is one WILD show packed with people. Granted, the weather is wonderful but my goodness, these folks are out in droves!
This show has shown us just how much folks love their outdoor activities. We truly live in a great area of lakes, trails and hunting. Come see VanDerZee Motorplex at the Ultimate Sports Show, DeVos Hall downtown Grand Rapids. More later today including the "flying" dog leap into the pool!
This show has shown us just how much folks love their outdoor activities. We truly live in a great area of lakes, trails and hunting. Come see VanDerZee Motorplex at the Ultimate Sports Show, DeVos Hall downtown Grand Rapids. More later today including the "flying" dog leap into the pool!
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Saturday at the Grand Rapids Boat Show
It's 10 am and already the show floor is humming with folks ready for summer. It was a wonderful busy Friday night for the Motorplex. It is gratifying when we talk to parents and grand parents who want the kids and grand kids to have a reason to spend time with the whole family. I was told many times last night: "We want something to keep the kids coming over so everyone can have fun on the water!" We can relate to them just how much fun owning a Waverunner or Jet Ski can be.
The Motorplex team has been doing a great job. I'm impressed with their enthusiasm, energy and how the react to all types of clients from the little 3 year old that wants a beach ball to the senior citizens buying a Waverunner or Jet Ski for the grand kids! It's a 10 t0 9 day. Keep the coffee coming and those wonderful windmill cookies. (Carrie brought the Jimmie Johns last night. It just doesn't get any better except Linda the boss lady keeps the tall ones off limits!)
Enjoy the day and come to Devos in Grand Rapids and see us at the BOAT SHOW!!!
The Motorplex team has been doing a great job. I'm impressed with their enthusiasm, energy and how the react to all types of clients from the little 3 year old that wants a beach ball to the senior citizens buying a Waverunner or Jet Ski for the grand kids! It's a 10 t0 9 day. Keep the coffee coming and those wonderful windmill cookies. (Carrie brought the Jimmie Johns last night. It just doesn't get any better except Linda the boss lady keeps the tall ones off limits!)
Enjoy the day and come to Devos in Grand Rapids and see us at the BOAT SHOW!!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Day Two at the Grand Rapids Boat Show
Day two brought bigger crowds and activity. The wakeboard demonstrations attract a lot of folks! Those guys can do amazing tricks and remember, they're only being pulled by a winch! Just think what they could do behind a 260 HP Ultra 260X!!!
I have noticed that boaters sure do like their beer! I think that when people see all of these new boats, they immediately picture themselves at the lake and having fun! Linda tells us that the beer concession is off limits for the whole Motorplex Team! Friday is the first 11 am start so we had better be prepared. It is fun getting home at 11pm dead tired from being so busy. We'll update on Friday.
Come join the fun!!!!!
I have noticed that boaters sure do like their beer! I think that when people see all of these new boats, they immediately picture themselves at the lake and having fun! Linda tells us that the beer concession is off limits for the whole Motorplex Team! Friday is the first 11 am start so we had better be prepared. It is fun getting home at 11pm dead tired from being so busy. We'll update on Friday.
Come join the fun!!!!!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Grand Rapids Boat Show is UNDERWAY
We are up and running for day 1 at the Grand Rapids Boat Show in Devos Place. First day attendance is up substantially compared to last year. The folks we've spoken to are certainly ready to get on the water. Michigan has the most wonderful abundance of fresh water anywhere. We sometimes take the splendor of Lake Michigan for granted. I can't imagine living in a state where you would have to drive hours to find a lake!
Both Yamaha and Kawasaki have given us the most agressive incentives in many years. They understand that boaters are demanding value, quality and a dedicated dealership. I am so proud of my staff of enthusiasts who know how to present the personal watercraft life style in an honest and straight-forward manner. I've already had a client tell me how much he appreciated our knowledge of personal watercraft and our professional approach.
We look forward to a great week at the Boat Show. Family boating is such a wonderful way to keep everyone outdoors and having fun. Seeing Mom, Dad and the kids all excited about getting a new Waverunner or Jet Ski makes for an enjoyable first day at the show!
Come to the Boat Show and you'll think summer will start next week! I'm certain of it because there are people here in shorts! That is my kind of optimism!! We'll check in tomorrow.
Both Yamaha and Kawasaki have given us the most agressive incentives in many years. They understand that boaters are demanding value, quality and a dedicated dealership. I am so proud of my staff of enthusiasts who know how to present the personal watercraft life style in an honest and straight-forward manner. I've already had a client tell me how much he appreciated our knowledge of personal watercraft and our professional approach.
We look forward to a great week at the Boat Show. Family boating is such a wonderful way to keep everyone outdoors and having fun. Seeing Mom, Dad and the kids all excited about getting a new Waverunner or Jet Ski makes for an enjoyable first day at the show!
Come to the Boat Show and you'll think summer will start next week! I'm certain of it because there are people here in shorts! That is my kind of optimism!! We'll check in tomorrow.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Here Comes the Grand Rapids Boat Show!!
Who cares what that woodchuck thinks, the Grand Rapids Boat Show is coming to DeVos Hall February 17-21! VanDerZee Motorplex will offer our Kawasaki Jet Ski and Yamaha Waverunner line up with exclusive Boat Show incentives! Early Bird Buyers will reap the rewards of special pricing and incentives available only during the Show! Downtown Grand Rapids is a wonderful location for the show. VanDerZee Motorplex gained clients from all over West Michigan during the 2009 show. We are proud that we've earned the reputation of being the area's most knowledgeable personal watercraft dealership. VanDerZee Motorplex truly has a group of professional personal watercraft FANATICS!
We know that attendees at the Grand Rapids Boat Show have done their homework well before they walk in the door. When they come to the VanDerZee Motorplex display they expect us to be ready with great prices, a wide selection of models, and straight forward answers. We help folks select the right package for their family's needs. We know that our clients do not want to spend their leisure time "tinkering" with their recreational products. That is a major reason why we offer Kawasaki and Yamaha with personal watercraft that have stellar reputations for quality, reliability and performance.
So step aside, Mr. Winter. West Michigan has got CABIN FEVER and VanDerZee Motorplex has the CURE! We're inviting everyone to visit VanDerZee Motorplex at the Grand Rapids Boat Show February 17-21 at DeVos Hall, downtown Grand Rapids! We'll have some fun, give away great prizes and help families discover a tremendous activity for the whole family: the joy of owning a Kawasaki Jet Ski or Yamaha Waverunner! Our FANATICS are READY FOR SPRING. See you at the Grand Rapids Boat Show!!!
We know that attendees at the Grand Rapids Boat Show have done their homework well before they walk in the door. When they come to the VanDerZee Motorplex display they expect us to be ready with great prices, a wide selection of models, and straight forward answers. We help folks select the right package for their family's needs. We know that our clients do not want to spend their leisure time "tinkering" with their recreational products. That is a major reason why we offer Kawasaki and Yamaha with personal watercraft that have stellar reputations for quality, reliability and performance.
So step aside, Mr. Winter. West Michigan has got CABIN FEVER and VanDerZee Motorplex has the CURE! We're inviting everyone to visit VanDerZee Motorplex at the Grand Rapids Boat Show February 17-21 at DeVos Hall, downtown Grand Rapids! We'll have some fun, give away great prizes and help families discover a tremendous activity for the whole family: the joy of owning a Kawasaki Jet Ski or Yamaha Waverunner! Our FANATICS are READY FOR SPRING. See you at the Grand Rapids Boat Show!!!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Toyota Enters the TWILIGHT ZONE of Recalls
Is the Toyota accelerator recall getting bizarre or what? We've got the US Secretary of Transportation telling everyone to STOP DRIVING your Toyota and then he recants his statement and says what I meant was "bring it to the dealer to get fixed". Next is Mr. Green, Henry Waxman telling the media that Toyota is keeping "secrets" about the actual cause.
Enter the Prius, the number one selling hybrid in the world, is now having a concern with the brakes! Let's see, one group of Toyotas will run away with sticking accelerators while the Prius won't stop! What the heck is going on with the bullet proof Toyota Motor Corporation? The national media is entering new ground taking shots at Toyota and their quality issues. What caused Toyota to become just "another" car company? I think that they got caught up with their own success just as General Motors did in the '60s and '70s. Remember the "what's good for GM is good for the Country"? Being number 1 in the world carries a lot of baggage. The mindset becomes one that breeds indifference and a feeling that your company is invincible. Dominating the market means power. It reminds me of the current feeling the country has towards our elected officials. You became oblivious to how you got where you are and who you owe your success to! Your attitude oozes arrogance and your critics had better get out of your way. Toyota now faces something it has never been challenged by in it's history: Quality issues. How they handle this situation will determine if they stay number one in the world or fall from grace with consumers.
It looks like Toyota will attempt to go above and beyond in assisting owners with affected vehicles. I think their biggest challenge in light of all of the media "experts" offer opinions of what is really wrong with acceleration problem, is to instill confidence to the owners that the "fix" is truly the cure. Every Toyota store in the US has officially entered the TWILIGHT ZONE!
Enter the Prius, the number one selling hybrid in the world, is now having a concern with the brakes! Let's see, one group of Toyotas will run away with sticking accelerators while the Prius won't stop! What the heck is going on with the bullet proof Toyota Motor Corporation? The national media is entering new ground taking shots at Toyota and their quality issues. What caused Toyota to become just "another" car company? I think that they got caught up with their own success just as General Motors did in the '60s and '70s. Remember the "what's good for GM is good for the Country"? Being number 1 in the world carries a lot of baggage. The mindset becomes one that breeds indifference and a feeling that your company is invincible. Dominating the market means power. It reminds me of the current feeling the country has towards our elected officials. You became oblivious to how you got where you are and who you owe your success to! Your attitude oozes arrogance and your critics had better get out of your way. Toyota now faces something it has never been challenged by in it's history: Quality issues. How they handle this situation will determine if they stay number one in the world or fall from grace with consumers.
It looks like Toyota will attempt to go above and beyond in assisting owners with affected vehicles. I think their biggest challenge in light of all of the media "experts" offer opinions of what is really wrong with acceleration problem, is to instill confidence to the owners that the "fix" is truly the cure. Every Toyota store in the US has officially entered the TWILIGHT ZONE!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Toyota Recall Causes Production Halt of Most Models
Toyota's announcement of the massive recall and assembly plant shut down is the most dramatic action ever taken by an auto manufacturer. It seems that Toyota's attempts for a "field" fix just isn't working. Initial action was to remove the driver's floor mat and then have the accelerator pedal modified by trimming the bottom edge of the pedal. It now seems that the complete "arm" and pedal must be redesigned for a confident fix. The problem is that the supplier plant in Elkart, Indiana will have their hands full producing millions of the redesigned part. No manufacturer ever wants to have an assembly line idled for even an hour let alone days or weeks. The ripple effect of this action will be devastating not only to the assembly worker but right down to the dealerships which will not only have to stop doing business, but will also have to have a solid plan to communicate with a hoard of concerned and angry clients. Toyota wants the fix done properly and seems to be committed to doing it the right way.
Toyota has been the poster boy of the renowned Asian quality. The domestics have scratched their heads for decades trying to emulate the quality of Toyota and Honda. It will be interesting to see how deeply this accelerator problem will tarnish the Toyota's quality reputation. The media will run hard with this one and Toyota will try mightily to control the damage. If they are perceived as "doing the right thing" and going above and beyond to correct the problem, the damage might be temporary. If the public thinks that they dragged their feet and tried to shrug off the matter as a crumpled floor mat, then a long term drop in Toyota sales will be at hand. Does anyone remember the Audi sudden acceleration problem? It hurt their reputation for over 15 years! The world's number one auto maker is going to take a big hit on this one. It will be interesting to find out just what went wrong with the design of a very simple part. Correcting the problem will take many months compounding the daily damage done to Toyota's quality reputation.
It would certainly be interesting to listen in on "war room" at Toyota! I'm sure that they want this nightmare to go away. The US motoring public does not react well to recalls! Time will tell!
Toyota has been the poster boy of the renowned Asian quality. The domestics have scratched their heads for decades trying to emulate the quality of Toyota and Honda. It will be interesting to see how deeply this accelerator problem will tarnish the Toyota's quality reputation. The media will run hard with this one and Toyota will try mightily to control the damage. If they are perceived as "doing the right thing" and going above and beyond to correct the problem, the damage might be temporary. If the public thinks that they dragged their feet and tried to shrug off the matter as a crumpled floor mat, then a long term drop in Toyota sales will be at hand. Does anyone remember the Audi sudden acceleration problem? It hurt their reputation for over 15 years! The world's number one auto maker is going to take a big hit on this one. It will be interesting to find out just what went wrong with the design of a very simple part. Correcting the problem will take many months compounding the daily damage done to Toyota's quality reputation.
It would certainly be interesting to listen in on "war room" at Toyota! I'm sure that they want this nightmare to go away. The US motoring public does not react well to recalls! Time will tell!
Friday, January 8, 2010
Chrysler now using smoke and mirrors
Chrysler just announced 5 new, err, "refreshed" models are being released. Sounds exciting, right? Well, truth be told, these awesome new models consist of some decals, blacked out "athletic" grilles (what the heck is an athletic grille? One designed by an NBA player?) and some names from the past like Renegade and Island Edition. This breaking news will certainly outshine Ford's announcement of all new engines and transmissions coming in 2010-11 with better fuel economy, performance and emissions. Ford is clearly in the driver's seat to become the number one domestic manufacturer as they have begun to INCREASE their market share making Government Motors 1 (GM) and Government Motors 1a (Chrysler) take notice.
While GM and Chrysler flounder by cutting dealerships, managers, and designers like a cork bobbing in Lake Michigan, Ford is offering US driver's a great array of leading edge products. I'm a former GM dealer and it hurts to see this happen. GM has some extraordinary products right now and more on the way. Too bad they don't have a "car guy" running the show! If you want an example of just how bad things are at GM marketing, go to You Tube and watch the Chevy "Volt Dancers" at the LA auto show. One word of caution. Do not view the dance after you have eaten or there will be consequences. It is THAT BAD.
Next on the horizon is the Detroit Auto Show. I understand that the Nation's savior of the auto industry, Queen Nancy our Speaker of the House will be in attendance. Let's all ask HOW she gets to Detroit? She had better arrive driving a Prius from DC to Detroit. Any bets that a US government aircraft will be involved? How soon we forget the browbeating the CEOs of Ford, GM and Chrysler were lambasted for their greedy corporate jets! Stay tuned on this one.
While GM and Chrysler flounder by cutting dealerships, managers, and designers like a cork bobbing in Lake Michigan, Ford is offering US driver's a great array of leading edge products. I'm a former GM dealer and it hurts to see this happen. GM has some extraordinary products right now and more on the way. Too bad they don't have a "car guy" running the show! If you want an example of just how bad things are at GM marketing, go to You Tube and watch the Chevy "Volt Dancers" at the LA auto show. One word of caution. Do not view the dance after you have eaten or there will be consequences. It is THAT BAD.
Next on the horizon is the Detroit Auto Show. I understand that the Nation's savior of the auto industry, Queen Nancy our Speaker of the House will be in attendance. Let's all ask HOW she gets to Detroit? She had better arrive driving a Prius from DC to Detroit. Any bets that a US government aircraft will be involved? How soon we forget the browbeating the CEOs of Ford, GM and Chrysler were lambasted for their greedy corporate jets! Stay tuned on this one.
Thank Goodness it is 2010!!
There was so much negative news during 2009 I can only see a better economic forecast for 2010! Never in my wildest dreams would I have imagined General Motors and Chrysler going bankrupt in the same year. The auto industry disaster even hit South Haven, Michigan hard as our top employer, Noble, closed and left over 300 folks out of work. The auto industry is far from being out of the woods as the perfect storm seems to be hitting domestic manufacturers from all sides. GM has made some moves that this former GM dealer just doesn't understand. Pontiac has so much value in terms of name recognition: GTO, Bonneville, Grand Prix, Grand Am, Firebird, Trans Am, LeMans, and the Judge will bring smiles to the faces of millions of drivers across the USA. Saturn. Remember the "different kind of car company"? You could go to a Saturn dealership and not have to face the "games" and pressure so prevalent in today's auto dealerships. Now the "New" GM has Cadillac, Buick, Chevy and GMC. How did GM justify dropping Pontiac and Saturn while keeping redundant truck divisions. Chevy and GMC have duplicate models nearly across the board. That also means marketing dollars for trucks have to be split between to competing divisions within the same GM! Wonder why Ford is able to tout the F-150 as the best selling truck in the US for over 25 years? It's because you can't add Chevy and GMC sales together! It just doesn't make any sense.
On a much brighter side, VanDerZee Motorplex is already making plans for the 2010 BOAT SHOW SEASON! Ah, yes, SPRING is less than 80 days away even though we are looking out at over 2 feet of snow right now. 2009 showed us that we have to work harder and look further for clients. VanDerZee Motorplex has sold autos, personal watercraft, atvs and utility vehicles to clients in 43 states, including Hawaii! (We just haven't found a client in Alaska yet). We've shipped used motorcycles, atvs and personal watercraft to Canada, the Philippines, and Norway. The Internet has made this such a small world. Our staff knows how important it is to take care of our clients whether they are just down the street from the Motorplex or on the other side of the world!
So 2010 has arrived. I'm still not quite sure what we are supposed to call this year. Is '10, '010, 2010, 2K.10? What decade is this? The 10's? I guess I'm exposing that I'm a child of the '60's. Peace, dude. Now where did my wife hide my tie dyed t-shirt?
On a much brighter side, VanDerZee Motorplex is already making plans for the 2010 BOAT SHOW SEASON! Ah, yes, SPRING is less than 80 days away even though we are looking out at over 2 feet of snow right now. 2009 showed us that we have to work harder and look further for clients. VanDerZee Motorplex has sold autos, personal watercraft, atvs and utility vehicles to clients in 43 states, including Hawaii! (We just haven't found a client in Alaska yet). We've shipped used motorcycles, atvs and personal watercraft to Canada, the Philippines, and Norway. The Internet has made this such a small world. Our staff knows how important it is to take care of our clients whether they are just down the street from the Motorplex or on the other side of the world!
So 2010 has arrived. I'm still not quite sure what we are supposed to call this year. Is '10, '010, 2010, 2K.10? What decade is this? The 10's? I guess I'm exposing that I'm a child of the '60's. Peace, dude. Now where did my wife hide my tie dyed t-shirt?
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Drive UPDATE concerning the Van Buren County Road Commission
Our 3 year battle goes on! Most of you know of our dilemma attempting to get a driveway approval for a safe and convenient access to our Motorplex from the 4 lane road in front of our property: Phoenix Street. Linda and I have attended the past 2 Van Buren County Road Commission meetings in Lawrence. I have read a written statement during the "public comment" portion of the meeting, given the board a copy and asked that it be entered into the record. The board and their engineer manager have been asked to respond to 5 specific questions concerning the process of granting driveways. The Van Buren County Road Commission has not responded by phone, fax, email, letter, or smoke signal!
I then attended a Van Buren County Board of Commissioners meeting last week. I read a written statement and then asked just who the Road Commissioners were accountable to. The answer I got should concern everyone: In essence, I was told that the Board of Commissioners only get involved with the 6 year appointments of the individual and that ends their accountability until the end of the 6 year term! We have an elected county board that appoints folks to a 6 year road commission term with no accountability for their actions for the entire term? What's wrong with THAT picture?? This situation needs to be confronted and corrected to protect everyone who resides in Van Buren County. The Road Commission seems to think that if they ignore our requests we will just fade away. NOT A CHANCE. Things are going to get very interesting..... Stay tuned. I will never give up in my fight for what is right!!
I then attended a Van Buren County Board of Commissioners meeting last week. I read a written statement and then asked just who the Road Commissioners were accountable to. The answer I got should concern everyone: In essence, I was told that the Board of Commissioners only get involved with the 6 year appointments of the individual and that ends their accountability until the end of the 6 year term! We have an elected county board that appoints folks to a 6 year road commission term with no accountability for their actions for the entire term? What's wrong with THAT picture?? This situation needs to be confronted and corrected to protect everyone who resides in Van Buren County. The Road Commission seems to think that if they ignore our requests we will just fade away. NOT A CHANCE. Things are going to get very interesting..... Stay tuned. I will never give up in my fight for what is right!!
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