Friday, July 29, 2011

Thank you Charles and Carol J. for sharing your thoughts!

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"We were never pressured by staff.  The facility was clean, the inventory of cars was more than we expected."

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Toyota Gives Paralyzed Bride a Mobility Van

Mobility-van-toyota-wedding-gift

Newlyweds Rachelle Friedman and Chris Chapman explore their surprise wedding day gift--a BraunAbility 2011 Toyota Sienna Rampvan.

 

By MICHELLE KOUEITER on 7/26/2011

In the 14 months after bride-to-be Rachelle Friedman took a paralyzing fall at her bachelorette party, she'd become pretty dependent on her wheelchair-accessible loaner van.

Little did she know that Toyota planned to hand one over as a gift for her wedding--postponed until this week in Raleigh, N.C.

Toyota and Braun--a manufacturer for wheelchair-accessible van conversions--had lent Friedman and her fiancé a Toyota Sienna with a BraunAbility Rampvan to make life a little easier in the months following the accident that rendered her paraplegic.

Before that, her mother had been carrying her in and out of the family's SUV to go to wedding-planning events, physical therapy and hospital visits.

"The van's made all the difference in the world," Friedman said. "Not only has it saved my mom's back, it's just made it so much easier to get out and do things. I've missed this level of comfort, convenience and independence."

Friedman and her fiancé tied the knot on July 22. After the wedding, Braun marketing director Joe Garnett and Toyota manager Scott Heyer presented them with the 2011 Braun Toyota Sienna.

Next, Friedman wants to learn to drive it.


Courtesy of Autoweek.com

We love hearing from our happy customers! Thank you to Susan B.

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"No pushy salesmen. Very informative about the car I bought and taught me how things work."

Monday, July 25, 2011

Do you have a honey-do list? Well, this Silverado will help you complete all of this summer's tasks with time to spare!

2011-07-25_1334

*Not all features are listed
  • ABS - 4-WHEEL
  • BRAKES: REAR BRAKES - DRUM
  • BUMPER COLOR
  • CARGO AREA LIGHT
  • DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS
  • DOORS: 0
  • ENGINE TYPE: V
  • FRONT HEAD ROOM: 41.5 IN.
  • FRONT LEG ROOM: 41.3 IN.
  • FRONT SEAT BELTS
  • FRONT SHOULDER ROOM: 65.2 IN.
  • FRONT STABILIZER BAR
  • FRONT WIPERS
  • FUEL CAPACITY: 0 GAL.


*Not all features are listed
  • DOORS: 0
  • FUEL CAPACITY: 0 GAL.
  • HEAD AIRBAGS - FRONT


Click here to see the full listing.

  • PASSENGER AIRBAG
  • PASSENGER AIRBAG DEACTIVATION - OCCUPANT SENSING DEACTIVATION
  • SATELLITE RADIO


Patrick M., we would like to thank you for your feedback!

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"1) Got me approved!

2) No pressure to buy.

3) Friendly staff.

4) Concern of MY needs. "

Friday, July 22, 2011

Thank you for sharing with us, Stephen B.! Come see us again soon!

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"The dealership personnel were courteous, knowledgeable, promoted an excellent product, and provided a good deal. The dealership also is conveniently located and has a positve atmosphere. "

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Toyota RAV4 EV Coming to Market in 2012

2011-07-19_1214
Recent reports have incorrectly stated that the 2012 RAV4 EV will only be marketed to fleet and car sharing programs.  We’d like to set the record straight.  The 2012 RAV4 EV will definitely be sold to the general public.  We anticipate robust public interest in the RAV4 EV and are keen to inform consumers that their future vehicle options include a battery electric Toyota.  

Toyota is the only manufacturer bringing two battery electric vehicles to the market in 2012 - the RAV4 EV and the Scion iQ EV.  While the RAV4 EV will be available to the public, the Scion iQ EV will be marketed to fleet and car sharing programs only.    

Multiple reports have been corrected on various automotive blog sites.  Please direct additional questions to Jana Hartline, jana_hartline@toyota.com

Courtesy of Toyota.com

Your kind words are much appreciated, Christopher M.

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"Charlie Thompson and Tim U. are the best!"

Monday, July 18, 2011

This beautiful 2009 Toyota Camry has all the bells and whistles. It's sitting on our lot waiting for you to come test drive!

We would like to thank Matthew and Angela H. for sharing their experience with us!

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"I got a better deal on my trade in than anywhere else!"

Friday, July 15, 2011

Thank you for your kind words Jennifer H., we appreciate your loyalty!

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"Our sales professional Charlie Thompson is the best to work with!!! He is the reason we shop with Advantage Toyota. This is our third vehicle purchase with him and he always treats us right! Thank you"

Thank you for your kind words Jennifer H., we appreciate your loyalty!

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"Our sales professional Charlie Thompson is the best to work with!!! He is the reason we shop with Advantage Toyota. This is our third vehicle purchase with him and he always treats us right! Thank you"

Now that the temperatures are rising....

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

A big thank you to Lawrence for sharing your experience with us

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"Salesman had great follow up, that is why I bought a Toyota instead of Honda."

Have you visited our very own Beach Fork State Park yet this summer? Here is a list of fun things to do while you're there!

2011-07-13_1048

Beech Fork State Park

5601 Long Branch Road
Barboursville, WV 25504
(304) 528-5794

Things to Do

The Wooten Recreation

The Wooten Recreation Area offers a number of opportunities for the entire family. Basketball, tennis, horseshoes, softball and volleyball can be enjoyed April through October.  Equipment is available for rent at Camper's Corner Store.

Camper's Corner Store 

A convenient grocery store is located at the park headquarters. The store offers the basic grocery needs (including milk and bread), gift shop items, hand dipped ice cream, camping supplies, fishing supplies, bait (chicken livers, night crawlers, and meal worms), ice, and firewood.  Game equipment is available for rent. 

The Camper’s Corner opens in April and closes in October.   The store hours are limited to late afternoon and evening times prior to Memorial Day and after Labor Day, then during the summer- daily 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.  Hours are subject to change.

Swimming Pool

Beech5

A 50 meter swimming pool and bathhouse facility opened at Beech Fork on Memorial Day in 2000. The complex includes a bathhouse and food/snack stand both open to park guests and the general public.

Pool Hours
Sunday: Noon – 6:00 p.m.
Monday: Closed-except on holidays
Tuesday through Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Pool hours are subject to change without notice and may close due to weather. There are no refunds.

Admissions*
12 years old and older, $3.00
Under 12 years of age, $2.00
Senior and books of ten ticket discounts are available.
Season passes are available at park headquarters.
Coin lockers are available inside.

*Each person entering the swimming pool facility must pay admission fee.
Admission may be denied for improper swimwear, cuts, casts, etc.
Inflatable water wings, rafts, balls, etc. are prohibited.
Picnic supplies, food, glass, beer, wine is prohibited to bring inside the pool area. 
Picnic areas outside of the pool area are available for use.
Alcohol is not permitted on Beech Fork State Park.

Fishing 

Fishing licenses may be purchased online.  A computer is available for online fishing license purchase at Camper’s Corner or park office.

Hiking

Fitness Trail

Biking

Picnicking

In addition to picnic areas, Beech Fork has 3 shelters for rental.  These are popular for reunions and gatherings.

Game Room

Located at the park headquarters, the game room contains a variety of current video games, ball stations, and prize stations.

Boat Rentals

Beech Fork State Park has pedal boats, canoes, kayaks, and row boats for rent.  Row boats are licensed and available for electric motor use (not provided).  The Boat Rental season begins Memorial Day weekend and closes Labor Day weekend. Life jackets are required and provided.  Persons renting boats must provide a valid driver's license.   Open Wednesday to Sunday: Noon to 8 p.m. and closed on Monday and Tuesday (except on holidays). Hours and days of operation are subject to change without notice and may close due to weather. 

Seasonal Boat Launch Area at Beech Fork State Park

(not to be confused with Beech Fork Dam and Recreation Area described below)

Pedal boats, canoes, kayaks, and licensed jon boats (jon boats are ready for a small motor or include oars for rowing) may be rented from the seasonal boat launch area within the state park.

Boat launch at Beech Fork State Park is seasonal and operational from April when lake fills to summer pool to November when the lake is brought down to winter pool.

Beech Fork Dam and Recreation Area is operated by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Beech Fork State Park operated by West Virginia State Park under (WVDNR) should not be confused with the Beech Fork Dam and Recreation Area operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers near Lavalette, W.Va. This area is located 22 miles from the state park and does not have overnight facilities. This Recreation area includes a Marina with motorized boat and pontoon rental, year round boat launch ramp, swimming beach, and picnic areas.

The Corps of Engineers Dam and Recreation Area can be reached at 304-525-4831.  The Marina may be contacted at 304-522-9374. There is no overnight facilities at the dam and recreation area operated by the Corps of Engineers.

Beech Fork State Park Office Hours

Office hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily beginning April and thru October. Office hours may vary during the off-season. Information to assist visitors is posted at the office building or control station at the front gate. Beech Fork State Park office may be reached by calling 304-528-5794 or for reservations or for park information, call 1-800-CALL-WVA.


Special Events and Activities

Beech Fork State Park hosts special events as well as provides daily activities during the summer season. Events and activities are open to park guests and the general public.

Special Events in 2011

Saturday, July 23
Lou Maiuri – Appalachian Country Cloggers
Beech Fork State Park
Lou will be calling squares and line dances today at 7:00 p.m. Come as you are and dance up a storm.  Circle up four and do sa do.  Open to anyone to attend. Campers, 4-H groups, come one and all.
No fee to attend.

September 16, 17, 18, 2011
"The Legacy of Mary Ingles"

The Legacy of Mary Ingles, in its 23rd year is an 18th century living history weekend that introduces visitors and guests to life and the ways of our pioneering ancestors through demonstrations and the portrayal of life in 1755 that Mary Ingles lived and encountered. The 2011 event will be presented at Beech Fork State Park

The presentations are not lecture-style and is a three-day encampment with more than 20 interpreters and tradesmen and women staged in primitive encampment settings. The interpreters engage those attending throughout the course of the day in conversation and with on going action and work life. The site is accessible.

Some of the life skills and demonstrations planned each day from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. and  over the course of the 3-day event include:  the importance of trade, animal care, spinning and weaving, music, salt making, medicinal and edible native plants as early healthcare, finger weaving, blacksmithing, candle making, lye soap making, hunting skills, tomahawk throwing, plant dyes, toys and games, wood working, hide tanning, Indian pictographs, women’s and men’s roles, and frontier cooking and foods.

It’s been 256 years since Ingles made her trek through the Kanawha Valley and New River area, and her remarkable story is woven throughout the each day. For information about this event, call 304-528-5794.

Saturday, October 8  
Gary Booth – Kid’s Magic Show
Beech Fork State Park
Garry returns for the annual Herron Fest at Beech Fork State Park the 7:00 p.m. magic show and balloon art is a sure family favorite.  No fee to attend.

Summer Activities

Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend is the traditional vacation season.  During this time daily activities are scheduled and include hikes, games, evening programs and nature-based activities.  Activities are posted at the park office and vary from week to week and posted online during the summer season.

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1-800-CALL WVA

Courtesy of beechforksp.com

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Thank you James D., we love receiving feedback from our customers.

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"Matt Dunkle actually answered my questions directly online. While others did not. I asked for a quote and got one from Matt.

The others wanted to schedule a visit. Give a person what they ask for and you'll get their business. You have mine...thanks"

Meet Joey Logano, NASCAR driver. Also a member of the Toyota Racing Team. He competes in a Toyota Camry!

Driver20Joey Logano
BORN: May 24, 1990
HOMETOWN: Middletown, CT
RESIDENCE: Concord, NC

TEAM: Joe Gibbs Racing
SPONSOR: The Home Depot
CREW CHIEF: Greg Zipadelli
RACE VEHICLE: Toyota Camry

BIOGRAPHY

 CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

  • Recorded seven top-five results, 16 top-10 finishes and one pole (2010)

  • Youngest pole winner in NASCAR Sprint Cup Series history at the age of 19 (Bristol, 2010)

  • Earned NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Rookie-of-the-Year honors with one win, three top-five results and seven top-10 finishes during his first full season in the series (2009)

  • Youngest driver to win a race in the history of the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series at 19 years, one month and four days (New Hampshire, 2009)

  • Youngest driver to win a race in the history of the NASCAR Nationwide Series at 18 years and 21 days (Kentucky, 2008)

  • NASCAR Grand National, Camping World Series East champion and winner of the series Rookie-of-the-Year honors (2007)

  • Won the NASCAR Toyota All-Star Challenge Showdown in the Grand National Division (2007)

Camry

Monday, July 11, 2011

We strive to make every customers' experience enjoyable and easy. Thank you for the encouraging words Barbara, Jennifer and Timothy.

"I have traded with this dealershp for over 25 years and have always had a good experience. As a woman I expected to be treated as if I knew nothing about cars but this didn't happen. Matt Turley has sold at least 5 new cars to me and it has always be a pleasant experience, not like the "dreaded" visit to the dealership. Everyonw from the service department to sales and finance has been grest. I will always shop at Advantage Toyota."


"The first purchase we made was in 2010 on an 09 camry (used) the certified warranty that comes with certain used vehicles is exceptional and unheard of with a used vehicle. One month later we returned to purchase a new Tundra for my husband. Then this year we returned again to trade the camry in on a 2011 4 Runner. The trade in process was quick and they gave us great trade in value. With this said we will continue to shop for our family vehicles at Advantage Toyota. The Toyota product continues to impress us and you can't beat the value. Advantage service dept. has serviced our vehicles from day 1 and they are wonderful to work with and do a professional job. But our number one reason for returning has been our sales professional, Charlie Thompson!! He is helpful, knowledgeable and treats us with such respect and has always provided us the best deal. We are so happy with your dealership as a while and will be back again!!"


"I have traded with this dealershp for over 25 years and have always had a good experience. As a woman I expected to be treated as if I knew nothing about cars but this didn't happen. Matt Turley has sold at least 5 new cars to me and it has always be a pleasant experience, not like the "dreaded" visit to the dealership. Everyonw from the service department to sales and finance has been grest. I will always shop at Advantage Toyota."

Hey fans, now you can access your vehicle service history by clicking here

Today's high technology cars require a large amount of attention, and we have the state of the art facilities to accommodate complications that may arise.  Our fully trained technicians are here to relieve you from the headaches that may come from car problems as well as regularly scheduled maintenance.  Let our professional experts get your car back on the road as quickly as possible.  Our staff will get the parts that you need and your car repaired, in a timely manner without compromising quality.  We understand that automobile maintenance is a serious matter and we are confident in preserving your safety.  Our technicians will meet the high standards of customer service that our clients have come to rely on.

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Scion Reaches Beyond Youth With Help From Greek God Zeus

 

Scion isn't mainly for young drivers anymore.

 

When Toyota introduced its sub-brand in 2000, it was touted as a car for first-time buyers aged 18 to 24, and over the years has used its own record label, ties to film, guerrilla marketing and even forehead ads to reach its youthful target.

 

But the credit crunch and scarcer jobs among its core demographic are leading to a tougher sales challenge -- Scion sales peaked in 2006, when 173,000 cars were sold and dropped to 45,000 last year, according to Automotive News. So the automaker is launching a TV and video push aimed at broadening its target market to 18- to 34-year-olds featuring a rather unlikely spokesman -- the Greek god Zeus -- for its tC model, which accounts for roughly half of its total sales.

 

In commercials, which break June 27 from agency Attik, "Zeus" is seen fraternizing with mortals. Attik has also created video vignettes from outtakes it hopes will go viral from the commercial's filming for the limited-edition tC Release Series vehicle, due in July. The video will be posted on the Scion website later today and on YouTube and forwarded to bloggers.

 

The goal is to generate buzz for the ad through the outtakes before it appears. "We're advertising the car in a way we've never done before," said Owen Peacock, national marketing-communications manager for Scion, who would not discuss budgets other than to say the video "allows us the freedom to distribute more creative content" than it would cost to purchase time on broadcast stations.

 

The Scion brand was supported with $20 million in measured media last year, according to Kantar Media, compared to $888 million for Toyota and $211 million for Lexus during that time.

 

Mr. Peacock said Zeus, the God of thunder and lightning, embodied the car's "high-voltage" color, playing along with the idea that "no mere human mortal could have made this car," he said. The outtakes, which run about 60 seconds, are called "On the set with Zeus." They portray a cocky Zeus stuck in modern times shown trying to woo the woman who appears with him in the commercial, asking her to write her phone number on parchment paper, poking fun at "Greek yogurt" and discussing the time share he bought on Mount Olympus.

 

The bright-yellow car serves as the backdrop in some of the spots. "There will really be a fun tone to this campaign," Mr. Peacock said. He said the agency focused on a comedic approach because of research that indicates there's more interest in sharing humorous information. The hope is that the video will spark people to share it before the spot breaks. "You can't downplay how important that is," he said.

 

Scion's had a history of cutting-edge marketing, and it's in dire need of a winning strategy, as the initial appeal of the boxy car has faded, said Rick Mathieson, who runs a marketing consulting firm and wrote about Scion in his book, "The On Demand Brand." He said portraying Scion as a car of the gods and using Zeus is a creative idea was a good way to appeal to the demographic. But he cautioned that even the most clever campaign could fail. "Viral is not a strategy -- it's an outcome," so to the extent the spots are promoted, "it could be spectacularly successful or completely ignorable."

 

Paul Seredynski, senior editor of Edmunds Auto Observer, said Scion has raised to an art form marketing "to the generation that doesn't want to be marketed to." While he generally finds the company's marketing efforts impressive, he said viral marketing hasn't successfully translated to sales among Scion's younger buyers. And no matter how dazzling the approach, it will be difficult to confront the obstacles that Scion has faced, where smaller sales volume have made it a lower priority brand. This, combined with Toyota's recalls and complications from the earthquake, have all served to weigh heavy on the brand.

 

But Mr. Peacock is optimistic that the campaign will move the dial on sales. "If this one goes off well, I can see us taking this approach again," he said.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Shopping for your next Toyota vehicle has never been easier....

Access the full vehicle lineup, browse features and colors, compare against competitors and more with the new Toyota Mobile Shopping Tool App