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The holidays are a time for cheer, for celebrating, and for spending time with your loved ones. It can be hard to find quality places to go and events to attend that fit your schedule and your interests. Whether you are just visiting Columbia, or are born and raised here, you know this small city packs a big punch when it comes to entertainment and community. Read on to learn about some wonderful Columbia holiday events you don't want to miss. Merriweather Symphony of Lights The Merriweather Symphony of Lights is a Columbia tradition for over 25 years. This time-honored holiday tradition is set in historic Merriweather Post Pavilion comprised of over 300,000 holiday lights and will dazzle the young and young-at-heart. This family-friendly lights display is larger than life and both animated and stationary holiday creations. A new 150 foot screen has been introduced and will enhance your experience. You'll find this bright holiday event at 10475 Little Patuxent Parkway, right here in Columbia. The event is scheduled to run from late November through early January. Tickets are $20 per vehicle, except for walk-through nights. The entrance for each night may change slightly, in response to traffic conditions. For information, send an email to info@merriweatherlights.com.. "The Art of Giving" Art Show at Savage Mill If you are helping someone decorate their walls with interesting pieces, this is an event you don't want to miss. "The Art of Giving" Art Show at the Savage Mill is an event that any art enthusiast or aspiring artist will appreciate. Hosted by the HorseSpirit Arts Gallery, the show encourages a sense of community and love by focusing on giving to create a positive change with family, friends, and the community. The show will be a collection of art from all mediums. Once the show begins, guests can view the art pieces online, through the website. You'll find the historic Salvage Mill at 8600 Foundry Street in Savage. Make your attendance special by bringing along a friend. Visitors are encouraged to join the cause and make a difference by contributing to the Art of Giving Tree, a collaborative effort to collect food, new clothing, and financial donations to benefit community members in need. The free art show begins on November 21 and will run through December 31, 2021. It will be open for guests from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 301-490-2001. Zoo Lights in Baltimore At only 41 minutes away from Columbia, the Zoo Lights display in Baltimore is a family-friendly event any animal lover can appreciate and use to get into the holiday spirit. After hours at the zoo, guests can walk or drive through a festival of lights shaped like wildlife. The money raised from this spectacular seasonal event will help support the zoo's animal care and conservation work. Annual guests will be happy to see that the zoo's walking path has been expanded this year and now includes Schaefer Plaza, the Farm Yard, and the train station. The event will run from Friday, November 19, 2021 through Sunday, January 2, 2022. Lights turn on from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and several zoo cafes will be open for guests to purchase water or hot cocoa. Wear your walking shoes, because although the paths are very easy to follow and made for a leisurely stroll, the ground can get slick in colder weather. Treat the family and take part in the walk-thru event, from Friday through Sunday. Zoo guests will enjoy snacks and warm drinks at Zoo Central, and free train and carousel rides. Tickets for walk-through visitors start at $28. Zoo members receive a $5 discount. Drive through visitors must purchase a ticket per vehicle at $33 each. The zoo encourages you to purchase tickets online in advance. Just be certain about the dates and times, as they are non-refundable. The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore is located at One Safari Place. You can best access it from Columbia via I-95 S. For information, call the zoo during regular hours at 443-552-5276 or email questions to events@ marylandzoo.org. Merri and Bright Holiday Tree Lighting The holiday tree lighting ceremony is a can't miss annual tradition for many Columbia families. A tree lighting ceremony is a festive way to kick off all of your holiday events and a visual signal to start your holiday shopping. On Friday, November 19 at Color Burst Park the party begins with live music, holiday performances, and artists creating live ice sculptures right in front of you. They invite attendees to write a letter to Santa including your holiday wishes, create your own hot cocoa concoction, and take the little ones to the kid crafting station. They enjoy coloring festive photos or even making a sweet ornament to hang on your tree at home. Color Burst Park is at 6000 Merriweather Drive. The celebration begins at 5:30 p.m. and continues to 8:30 p.m. The event is free to attend. However, if you wish to go ice skating in the rink, or anticipate getting something to drink or eat, make sure you have various methods of payment available to use, as each merchant is different. Also, get there early for good parking. So there you have it. Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC has just shared with you our list of Columbia holiday events you don't want to miss. Whether you like shopping or can't start your holiday without a tree lighting ceremony, these events are sure to keep your calendar filled. What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite holiday event in Columbia? If we did, let us know! Leave a message and we'll be happy to check out your suggestions. Why Choose Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC? Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC is dedicated to providing quality, individualized service to every customer. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff waits ready to make the entire car buying and vehicle ownership experience easy and fun for you. Browse our inventory of new or used cars to find one that fits your lifestyle. We even have a simple process to help you buy or sell your current vehicle. Start your two-minute appraisal and get your true cash offer now.? Image via Flickr by Theo Crazzolara

November is when the weather cools down and the season of giving begins. Sometimes amid all the shopping, celebrating, and gathering, it's hard to take time and find quality events to attend with friends and family. Although Washington is never short on shindigs to attend and places to go, some are better suited to your interests than others. Whether you're visiting Washington, D.C., for a quick weekend trip or you're a Washingtonian through and through, we've got you covered. Read on for our list of the top five ways to have a good time in Washington, D.C., this November. Enchant Christmas Although it's a Christmas celebration, Enchant at Nationals Park kicks off November 26 and runs until January 2. This whimsical event — offering a lights maze and a Christmas village complete with a home featuring Mr. and Mrs. Claus — is fun for families and also makes for a memorable date night. Use the opportunity to begin some of your holiday shopping and walk off the Thanksgiving feast by exploring the Enchant Forest. Festivities include Ice Skating Trail — a fun skating rink — and an artisan Christmas market carrying unique gifts for everyone, old or young. Try the flavors of the season by sipping on some mulled cider and munching on warm, crunchy shortbread. General admission tickets for adults begin at $39. Children ages 3-17 can enter for $29, and senior citizens, military, and EMS workers receive a discount of $3 per ticket. Entry for children 2 and under is free. For information or to book for a group of over 25 people, call 833-362-6445. The Redeye Night Market The family-friendly Redeye Market, presented by No Kings Collective, is on November 6 and takes place at Pennsylvania Avenue NW between Third and Seventh streets. The event is inspired by the traditional night markets of East and South Asia and is intended to bolster the local economy and support small businesses. This one-night market will feature local chefs and treat visitors to local cuisines. A variety of vendors will be participating, including Batch Roasting Co., King's Ransom, Rice Culture, Teaism, and Sweets by Caroline. Visitors can expect live performances and a plethora of Washington, D.C., vendors selling handcrafted goods and foods. The event celebrates the unique Asian culture thriving in Washington, D.C. It also aims to unite the community by paying homage to the past, highlighting the city's vision for the future, and supporting local artisans and chefs. To attend this special event and receive updates, RSVP online. The Redeye Market, open to all ages, is free and will be from 4 p.m. to midnight. Caledon State Park Art and Wine Festival The Caledon State Park Art and Wine Festival is a relaxed fall event suitable for art lovers, wine connoisseurs, and nature enthusiasts. It's ideal for young and old and a great place to take the kids for some fair food. Let them indulge in a funnel cake while the adults take part in wine tasting from some of Washington, D.C.'s local wineries. Adults receive a commemorative wine glass with entry. Also, visit local artists and purchase some handmade goods, all while enjoying some fresh fall air. The Caledon State Park and Wine Festival is on Saturday, November 6 and Sunday, November 7 at 11617 Caledon Road in King George, Virginia. Adult general admission is $15 online in advance or $20 at the gate. The festival is free for non-tasting guests, though parking usually comes with a fee. Be sure to dress in layers in case colder breezes start up. Baltimore Wing and Chicken Festival The Baltimore Wing and Chicken Festival is the world's largest festival of its kind and encompasses an entire city block. There will be live music and a large selection of fresh food from over 20 of the area's best restaurants and food trucks. Be ready to chow down on macaroni and cheese, nachos, and a vast selection of fried food and chicken. The festival takes place November 6-7, and gates open at 2 p.m. Early Bird General Admission tickets are on sale for $12.99, while premium tickets are $27.99. We suggest you spring for the latter, as they come with a complimentary first drink, six chicken bucks, and a french fry bar ticket. November Walking Tours November is the perfect time to take a stroll on the steps of the Capitol. Hosted by Capitol Hill Restoration Society, walking tours are a great way to explore Washington, D.C., and learn about the nation's capital. Tours will be offered on November 13 and 14, but be sure to secure your spot online quickly — they fill up fast. Tickets range from $15 to $35, and tours feature some of the area's most gorgeous parks and famous neighborhoods. Wear comfortable walking shoes, have sunscreen, and remember to dress for the weather. So there you have it. Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC has just shared with you our list of the top five ways to have a good time in Washington, D.C., this November. If you're at a loss for things to do in November, consider these. What do you think of our list of suggestions? Did we miss your favorite annual event to attend in Washington, D.C., in November? If we did, let us know! Leave a message and we'll be happy to check out your suggestions. Why Choose Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC? Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC provides each customer with individualized and friendly service. Our team of qualified professionals goes above and beyond for every client to ensure a positive vehicle ownership experience, from start to finish. We'll work hard to help you find the ideal vehicle for you. And if you're looking to sell your current automobile or trade in for an upgrade that fits your changing needs, get a true cash offer in as little as two minutes.?Image via Flickr by edenpictures

Chevrolet is known to produce reliable and well-rounded vehicles that offer great value for your money. If you're thinking of buying a midsize SUV in Clarksville, Maryland, you can find your ideal ride at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC. The Chevrolet Traverse is one of our most sought-after SUVs because of its excellent ride quality, ample passenger and cargo space, and generous feature content. It's also a competitively priced and highly customizable vehicle. Check out this comprehensive guide to the trim levels and prices of the 2022 Chevy Traverse. Trim Levels and Prices of the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse If you decide to buy the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, you can choose from six trims. These trims come with different price tags and feature sets to suit the budgets and lifestyles of various SUV buyers. The following is a breakdown of the trim levels of the new Chevy Traverse. LS The entry-level LS has a base manufacturer's suggested retail price of $33,700. This model comes standard with eight-passenger seating, but you can replace the second-row bench seat with two captain's chairs, which reduces the seating capacity to seven. The LS features heated outside mirrors, automatic LED headlights, 18-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, a 7-inch touch-screen display, USB ports, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. Additionally, you'll have access to an array of standard driver-assistance features that can help you stay safe behind the wheel. These features include automatic braking, forward-collision alert, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot detection, rear parking sensors, rear cross-traffic warning, and a rearview camera. LT Cloth If you opt for the LT Cloth, you should prepare to spend at least $36,200. This trim has all of the features of the LS, plus fog lights, roof rails, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a wireless device charger, and a satellite radio. Second-row captain's chairs are standard, while eight-passenger seating is available as an option. Also, the LT Cloth offers additional color choices. LT Leather With a minimum price of $39,900, the LT Leather adds leather upholstery, a power-adjustable front-passenger seat, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a remote start system, a power lift-gate, an 8-inch HD touch-screen display, and a 4-inch multi-color driver instrument display. Also, this trim gives you access to the LT Premium package, priced at $3,795. This package includes heated and power-folding outside mirrors with integrated turn signals, 20-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, a built-in navigation system, a premium Bose 10-speaker audio system, a 120-volt power outlet, a digital rearview mirror, enhanced automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system. RS Choosing the RS will cost you $44,200 or more. This trim offers every feature found in an LT Leather with the LT Premium package, plus 20-inch dark-finish aluminum wheels, a black grille, black bow-tie emblems, black roof rails, and black window moldings. Premier Starting at $46,600, the Premier features a statelier style and provides enhanced comfort and convenience. It comes with additional features such as chrome door handles and roof rails, a power-adjustable steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a driver's seat with memory settings, heated rear seats, and a hands-free lift-gate. High Country If you plan to use your new SUV for trailering, it's a good idea to get the top-of-the-line High Country. With a base price of $51,200, this model comes standard with a panoramic sunroof, a power-folding third row, and trailering enhancements such as a trailer hitch and touch-screen-based hitch guidance. Special Editions of the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse Aside from an extensive trim lineup, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse also offers several special-edition models to give you more customization choices. These styling packages include the Midnight, Sport, and Redline Editions. For an extra $995, you can make your Chevy SUV look stealthier and sportier. The Midnight and Sport Editions each come with a mosaic black metallic exterior, 18-inch gloss-black aluminum wheels with a black logo, a black grille, black bow-tie emblems, black roof rails, and a black nameplate. If you choose the Premier trim, you have the option to purchase the Redline Edition package for a more stylish and aggressive appearance. With an additional cost of $2,500, this package includes 20-inch gloss-black wheels with red details, a black grille, black and red Traverse badging, black window moldings, black-painted lower moldings, and black roof rails. Packages Available for the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse Depending on your personal needs and preferences, you may want to buy one of the many packages available for the new Chevy Traverse, such as the: Hit the Road package. The Hit the Road package costs $1,095 and includes black roof-mounted cross rails and molded assist steps. Floor Liner package. By paying an additional $425, you can equip your SUV with all-weather floor liners in all three rows and an integrated cargo liner. Interior Protection package. With a $275 price tag, this package consists of all-weather floor liners in all three rows and an all-weather cargo mat. Premium Carpet Floor Mat package. For an extra $350, the Premium Carpet Floor Mat package gives you premium carpeted floor mats in all three rows. Cargo package. The Cargo package sets you back $210 and adds a retractable cargo shade and a vertical cargo net. Roadside Safety package. If you spend an extra $165, you can get a first aid kit and a highway safety kit for roadside emergencies. Blackout package. The Blackout package comes with a price tag of $995. It makes your Traverse more distinctive-looking with black bow-tie emblems, black badging, black mirror caps, and black rear license plate applique. Black Accent package. The Black Accent package is priced at $750 and comprises a black grille and black bow-tie emblems. Chrome Essentials package. If you want your SUV to look more elegant, pay an extra $285 for the Chrome Essentials package, which includes chrome mirror caps and bright sill plates. The refreshed 2022 Chevrolet Traverse should arrive at dealerships in late 2021. If you're interested in this SUV model, you can book a test drive in advance with Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need more information. Image via Flickr by spe.automotive Image via Flickr by truckhardware

Whether you're visiting family for the Thanksgiving holiday or live in the Baltimore, Maryland, area, it's fun to get out and enjoy local events. Our team at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC has compiled a list of eight ways to enjoy Thanksgiving time around the lovely city of Baltimore. Girl's Night Out! Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop at Graduate Annapolis No matter where you're planning on spending Thanksgiving, adding a beautiful centerpiece to the table will make the meal extra special. Gather sisters, daughters, mothers, aunts, nieces, and girlfriends together to make a show-stopping Thanksgiving centerpiece and floral display at Girl's Night Out! Thanksgiving Centerpiece Workshop at Graduate Annapolis. During this event hosted by Something's Blooming Annapolis and held at the delightful Trophy Room at the Graduate Annapolis hotel, you'll use colorful fall flowers, dried wheat, and stunning roses to make your special creation. As you and your friends make the floral arrangement, you'll be treated to a specialty beverage that will help to make the night extra fun. This event will take place at the Graduate Annapolis hotel located at 126 W. St. in Annapolis on November 23 between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Dine at the Thames Street Oyster House After eating plenty of turkey and pumpkin pie, branch out and have dinner at the Thames Street Oyster House in historic Fells Point. You'll dine right on the waterfront of the Inner Harbor with magnificent views of the Patapsco River. For oyster lovers, this restaurant offers 11 different kinds of oysters from both the east and west coasts. In addition, you can dine on the freshest local seafood from the Baltimore area as well as eat fresh local produce. From the raw bar, savor ice-cold fresh oysters and clams and then move on to entrees such as crab cakes, Maine lobster risotto, or a black Angus New York steak. You can find the Thames Street Oyster House at 1728 Thames Street. Participate in the Jug Bay Post Turkey 5K Trail Run Not only will you burn off some of those Thanksgiving calories, but you'll also be surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery at the Jug Bay Glendening Nature Preserve when you participate in the Jug Bay Post Turkey 5K Trail Run. This fun run winds through off-road trails with scenic views of the woods and the Patuxent River. Running this 5K is an exciting way to spend time in nature with family and friends while helping to support the Friends of Jug Bay program. Proceeds from the entrance and registration fees will help Jug Bay buy kayaks and other equipment that goes toward their outdoor educational programs. Be Spellbound Watching a Magical Cirque Christmas You'll be amazed at the agility and strength of the performers as you watch a Magical Cirque Christmas. Watch the cirque artists as they fly through the air on trapezes, whirl through aerial hoops, and perform amazing tricks, all set to popular Christmas music performed live for your listening pleasure. The show will be held at The Lyric at 140 W. Mt. Royal Ave. on November 27 at 8 p.m. Cheer on the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium A fun way to spend time with family and friends over Thanksgiving is to head over to M&T Bank Stadium and cheer on the Baltimore Ravens football team as they go head to head with the Cleveland Browns. The game starts at 8 p.m. EST, and you can find the stadium at 1101 Russell St. in Baltimore. Baltimore is known for its delicious blue crab, so check out these places to savor crab cakes before heading to the stadium to cheer the Ravens on. Listen to the Beautiful Voices of the A Capella Group Pentatonix Enjoy Christmas music sung by the three-time Grammy Award winning a cappella artists Pentatonix. Using only their voices as instruments, Pentatonix delivers stunning versions of songs that we all know and love. The group will perform songs from their new holiday album, "Evergreen," with songs such as "I Just Called to Say I Love You" written by the legendary Stevie Wonder. You can see Pentatonix perform The Evergreen Christmas Tour at Chesapeake Employers Insurance Arena located at 1000 Hilltop Circle on November 27 at 7 p.m. Shop for Holiday Gifts at the Christmas Village in Baltimore Find beautiful handmade gifts, housewares, and specialty food products when you visit the Christmas Village in Baltimore. This market features German food, beer and wine tastings, as well as artists that make nutcrackers, glass ornaments, pyramids, and other traditional German crafts. You can eat German food inside of the large heated festival tent and enjoy a stout German beer before shopping at this festival. From November 20 to December 24, you can shop at the festival located at the Inner Harbor's West Shore Park. Rock Out to The Lemonheads at the Baltimore Soundstage For fans of the alternative American rock band The Lemonheads, you can see the band perform live at the Baltimore Soundstage. Delighting audiences since their early years starting in 1986, The Lemonheads rose to fame in the mid-1990s when they did a cover of Simon and Garfunkel's famous song, Mrs. Robinson. Today, The Lemonheads tour regularly with old favorites and plenty of new songs. Mark your calendar for Friday November 26 to see the show that starts at 8 p.m. You can find the Baltimore Soundstage at 124 Market Place. Before seeing the Lemonheads, you'll want to fuel up by stopping at any of these taco stands in the Baltimore area. Sell Your Car at Koons Not only will you get superb customer service while shopping for your favorite new or pre-owned vehicle at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, but you can also sell your car to us. Whether you want to trade in your well-maintained older car for a new one from us or just sell your car, give our team at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC a call and you can get a True Cash Offer in minutes. We look forward to speaking to you today about the value of your car. Image via Flickr by TrishaLyn

Appropriate car insurance is a valuable investment. While you need a certain amount of coverage to drive legally in Clarksville, Maryland, additional insurance options provide extra coverage and protection from situations that could be catastrophically expensive. Gap insurance is one such option. What Gap Insurance Is Image via Unsplash by goldencoastgrams Gap insurance is a type of automobile coverage that compensates you for the difference between what you owe on your vehicle and what your vehicle is worth if it's stolen or totaled. This insurance differs from other types of coverage because it provides for a sum above and beyond the car's actual cash value. Actual cash value (ACV) is what your vehicle is worth after taking mileage, age, and damage into account. To determine the ACV for your vehicle, subtract its depreciation from its replacement value. This amount is very close to the car's trade-in value. Insurance companies use ACV to determine whether a car is a total loss after an accident. If the cost to repair the vehicle exceeds the ACV, the company deems that vehicle totaled, and standard insurance will only compensate you for the vehicle's value rather than the repairs. Some states consider a car to be a total loss if the repair costs exceed a percentage of the ACV. For example, in Maryland, your car is totaled if the repair costs are just 75% of the ACV. How Does Gap Insurance Work? Gap Insurance covers the gap between what you owe on your vehicle and what your insurance will pay you for it. For example, say you put $2,000 down on a brand-new car and take out a $23,000 car loan to cover the rest. With a 60-month loan and a 6.6% interest rate, you'll pay $451 a month, or $5,412 a year on your car. Over the life of the loan, you'll actually pay $27,066 for the vehicle. After you drive off the lot, your $25,000 car has depreciated by 10%, so it's now worth $22,500, but you still owe $27,066. After the first year of ownership, your vehicle has depreciated 20% to a value of about $20,000, yet you owe $21,654. If your vehicle gets stolen or totaled during this time, your standard insurance plan will only compensate you for the car's value, potentially leaving you with thousands of dollars outstanding on your loan and no car to show for it. Gap insurance steps in and covers that amount, paying off your loan so you're free from that debt as you look for your next vehicle. Who Needs Gap Insurance? Gap insurance is designed for individuals who owe more on their vehicles than they're worth. As you can see from the example above, the instant depreciation of a new car once driven off the lot puts many drivers in that category as soon as they take their vehicles home. You should consider gap insurance if: You put down less than 20% of the purchase price as your down payment. Your car loan lasts for 60 months or longer. You're leasing a vehicle. You're driving a vehicle with an exceptionally high depreciation rate. You drive more than 15,000 miles a year, accelerating your car's depreciation. If one or more of these statements applies to you, you can calculate the difference between your car's value and what you owe on your loan to see how much value gap insurance offers in your case. Compare this with the cost of the insurance itself to see how much you might gain from this coverage. How Can I Get Gap Insurance? You typically need to get gap insurance within 30 days of purchasing a new vehicle. If you're leasing your vehicle, the contract might already include gap insurance, so check the fine print to see if you're covered. Not all insurance providers offer gap insurance, so you might need to shop around for this special type of coverage. It's typically best to begin by contacting your current insurance agent to find out what they can provide. If gap insurance isn't an option, you can purchase this coverage separately or move your car insurance plan to a company that will meet all your needs. The bank or credit union that's financing your vehicle might also offer gap insurance. In this case, the lender usually calculates the total sum for your gap insurance and adds the cost to your auto loan. While this seems convenient, it means you're paying interest on your gap insurance, which increases the overall price of your coverage. When Should I Cancel My Gap Insurance? You should cancel your gap insurance when the amount you owe on your vehicle is less than the vehicle's ACV. Once a year, look up the trade-in value of your vehicle or have it appraised at a dealership. Then, look at your car loan and determine what you still owe on the vehicle. The difference between these two numbers will help you decide if it's worth investing in gap insurance for another year. If the cost of the gap insurance itself exceeds what the insurance would pay out for you, it's no longer worth the investment. What Exclusions Apply to Gap Insurance? Gap insurance offers helpful coverage in specific situations, but it's important to know what it does and does not cover. Gap insurance will not help with: Late loan payments. Damage costs associated with a previous accident that did not total the car. Insurance deductibles. Financial penalties assessed on a leased vehicle for excessive use. Security deposits on leased vehicles. Costs associated with extended warranties or other coverage. Carry-over balances from previous loans. Equipment added to the vehicle after it was purchased. If you're leasing or purchasing a new vehicle from Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, gap insurance is definitely something to think about. Calculate how much you can afford to spend each month on car expenses, including insurance, using our convenient payment calculator. Then get the right coverage for your needs, so you can drive off the lot confidently in your new vehicle.

When you're browsing our inventory of Chevrolet and GMC SUVs and trucks at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, you're sure to notice that some of the vehicles from the two brands are very similar. You might ask yourself, “Should I buy a Chevy or GMC?” Well, both brands are owned by General Motors and offer superb quality, capability, and reliability, so you can't go wrong with either. Let's take a brief look at the history of the brands and what sets them apart. How Chevy and GMC Began Chevy and GMC have been inextricably linked since the early days of the American automobile industry. The General Motors Company was founded in 1908 by William C. Durant, but by 1910, Durant was forced out of the company. He subsequently co-founded the Chevrolet Motor Company in 1911. The same year, General Motors formed the General Motors Truck Company, which in 1912 became known as GMC Trucks. Chevrolet became so successful that Durant was able to regain a controlling interest in General Motors, and in 1918 Chevrolet was incorporated into GM. Over the years, Chevy introduced many engineering and design concepts and quickly grew to be one of America's best-selling brands. GMC went through several incarnations and was mainly involved in the production of commercial trucks and buses. In 1996, General Motors merged GMC Trucks with Pontiac Motors, and GMC expanded its lineup to include SUVs alongside its pickup trucks. Today, GM's automobile brand portfolio consists of Chevrolet, GMC and Cadillac. Chevy and GMC Platform Sharing In today's automobile industry, many carmakers collaborate with other manufacturers to create different vehicles based on the same platform. With a shared chassis and components, automakers can greatly reduce development and production costs while maintaining their brand identity. General Motors was one of the first car companies to implement platform sharing, using a single chassis for models from Chevrolet, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile. Platform sharing between Chevrolet and GMC goes all the way back to 1920 when GMC built a light-duty truck on a Chevy car chassis. Today, the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon midsize trucks share a platform, as do the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra full size trucks, along with the Silverado HD and Sierra HD. As for SUVs, the small Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain, and the midsize three-row Chevy Traverse and GMC Acadia utilize shared platforms. The same goes for the full-size Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon, and the Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. So, What's the Difference Between Chevy and GMC Vehicles? While several Chevrolet and GMC vehicles might share a platform, they are still very different brands which are marketed to different demographics. For example, Chevy trucks are aimed more at mass market buyers and recreational truck users, while GMC trucks are targeted at luxury vehicle buyers. GMC trucks and SUVs are priced relatively higher than their Chevy counterparts, but they offer better quality materials and come with more standard equipment and premium features. Most of GMC's truck and SUV sales come from its luxurious off-road AT4 and high-end Denali trim levels. That's not to say that Chevrolet doesn't offer off-road capable and high-end models. Depending on the vehicle, you can opt for the luxury High Country trim or vehicles designed to tackle the toughest trails like the Silverado Trail Boss variants or the Suburban Z71. GMC AT4 and Denali All GMC trucks and SUVs are now available in the off-road specialized AT4 and prestigious Denali trim levels, which have almost become sub-brands in their own right. But what do these trims have to offer? AT4 models come standard with all-wheel drive and unique, rugged styling inside and out. Depending on the model, you'll find features such as a black chrome grille, black wheels and trim, red recovery hooks, underbody skid plates, hill descent control, and a traction select system. Inside, the distinctive details include leather upholstery, AT4 embroidered head restraints, brushed aluminum accents, and stylish AT4 sill plates. The GMC Denali range of vehicles represents the pinnacle of luxurious motoring. These models create a dynamic impression with their bold exterior styling. Each model offers a signature Denali chrome grille, bright aluminum wheels, elegant chrome details, and an iconic lighting signature. The interior is crafted from the finest materials with supple leather upholstery, unique trims and stitching, and real aluminum accents. Chevy High Country Chevrolet buyers can also go for a luxurious option with the High Country trim level. The Suburban High Country, for example, gives you elegant perforated leather upholstery, heated and ventilated 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated second-row seats, power-release second-row captain's chairs, tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch driver information center, a head-up display, a surround view camera system, and a Bose 10-speaker surround sound system. You also get an extensive list of driver assistance features. Current Chevy and GMC Models Chevrolet currently produces the Trax, Equinox, Blazer, Tahoe, and Suburban SUVs. For cars, you can choose from the quirky Spark hatchback, the elegant Malibu sedan, the Bolt electric vehicle, and the new Bolt electric utility vehicle. If it's a sports coupe or convertible you want, you can opt for the legendary Camaro or the amazing Corvette Stingray. And Chevy also offers some of the most powerful and capable trucks with the Colorado, Silverado, and Silverado HD. GMC's SUVs are the Terrain, Acadia, and Yukon, while they also make the Canyon, Sierra, and Sierra HD trucks. Arriving in the fall of 2021 are the stunning all-electric GMC Hummer EV pickup and GMC Hummer EV SUV, both of which bring a whole new element of power and off-road capability to the electric vehicle market. Ultimately, choosing between a Chevy or GMC SUV or truck comes down to your personal preference and your budget. Koons of Clarksville Has Your Perfect Car At Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, we have an extensive inventory of cars, trucks, and SUVs, so make us your first stop today in your search for a new vehicle. We can also offer you the best price when you sell us your current car. Our dealership is conveniently located at 12421 Auto Drive, Clarksville, Maryland. Alternatively, contact us by phone or via the website to arrange a test drive of your choice of vehicle. Image via Unsplash by @ethancurrier Image via Unsplash by @bradkillen

Clarksville is a booming city with a pleasant small-town feel. The town is filled with tons of outdoor activities, a growing restaurant scene, and a newly revitalized downtown. Clarksville has a lot to offer for families that choose to tour. Listed below are a few things that you can enjoy doing with your children when in Clarksville, Maryland. Enjoy Playing Games at GameTruck GameTruck has it all for kids of all ages. Established in 2014, the company has gone out of its way to make certain that players of all ages get to enjoy their favorite mobile or PC games, including video games. If you want to have a birthday party for your kids, there is no better way to celebrate than to gift them a game setup from GameTruck. The team from the company will come to your desired location and set up a play station where your guests can enjoy all types of games. Play At the Bubala Playground Looking for great activities for your kids to do on the weekend? You can now take them out to have some little fun at the Bubala Playground. Bubala is an indoor playground designed for children up to 7 years old. The area is safe and offers children an environment to learn social skills and independence. It is also a great place to celebrate your kid's next birthday party. The team here is well-organized and committed to throwing your child a memorable party. The entrance fee ranges between $9 and $13 for individual kids, while parties average between $299 and $449. Visit Everkids Playhouse Another Indoor playground, Everkids Playhouse offers kids a variety of game options. The center is suitable for children 6 years old and below. It provides them with toys and tools that encourage them to be creative and explore their immediate world. The area offers adults a large seating area with coffee spots, massage chairs, and free Wi-Fi. The playhouse holds birthday parties, so you can organize your child's party to be held here. The center also sells and promotes arts from kids hailing from underprivileged areas. You can call in advance and book an event space with Everkids. ShadowLand Laser Adventures If you are looking for adrenaline activities for you and your kids, ShadowLand Laser Adventure has you covered. Improve your sensory experience by going through magical spacescapes and battle wonderfully weird creatures. Geared in high-tech, lightweight combat suits, you'll travel through a multi-level arena and meet creatures that you must fight. You can look forward to narrow alleys, bridges, and towers in your quest to find your targets. The search will not be an easy one. You'll have to find your opponent while contending with thick fog, lasers, and some disorienting music. For this reason, this adventure is not suitable for children under 6 years old. The adventure at ShadowLand Laser provides a powerful way to increase your child's sense of teamwork, social skills, concentration, balance, and coordination. The teams that win will have earned a sense of achievement or victory, which can help boost their confidence. Go Ape at Rock Creek Park Watch the world below from a bird's-eye view by heading to Rock Creek Park. The park has a Go Ape Treetop Adventure that allows teams to move through trees using zip lines. Here, you must overcome all the obstacles in your way and make it to the endpoint. The adventure is not for the faint-hearted, so come prepared. Rock Creek Park is the first Go Ape Course in the USA and boasts six zip lines, 44 crossings, and two Tarzan swings. Of the six zip lines, one is a skateboard skate line. You can be sure to have an enjoyable time at this park if you have the courage to swing from tree to tree like Tarzan. Little Medical School of Maryland Is your little one fascinated by all things medicine? If so, take them for a day at the Little Medical School of Maryland. The center offers great opportunities for pre-school, elementary, and middle school kids to take part in the world of medicine. The Little Medical School provides a curriculum that was developed by a team of certified physicians and experienced educators. Its goal is to engage and inspire children to use medical instruments, navigate the body's systems, write prescriptions, give first aid, and many other things related to medicine. Children can have fun as they learn. The Little Medical School of Maryland is a great place to take your children for summer camps and pre-school programs. Visit Bohrer Park If you want to have some water fun or unwind near a water body, Bohrer Park is the ideal place to visit. The park offers a great place where families can swim and relax on inflatable animals. The pool has a zero-depth entry area, which makes it accessible to swimmers of all ages. Your kids will be excited about the splash pool, where they can play in a customized play structure with open and closed flumes. Adults and older kids will enjoy the double water slide, which is a major thrill if you are brave enough to take on the ride. If you want to relax, you can rest at one of the shady spots provided by the park. Go Skating at Skate Zone If your children enjoy or want to start skating, Skate Zone is the place to go. Skate Zone is a roller-skating and entertainment center that was established in 1996. For all skating lessons, you can trust the experts in this center to aid and educate you. The center is open throughout the week, so you can pop in any time. They also host parties including, birthdays, private events, corporate events, and many others. Skate Zone also has a cafe, Rolling Cafe, so grab something before you leave. So, you are in Clarksville with your family and are looking for a spot to have some great family time? Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC has listed some of the top activities you can do with your kids. You are welcome to contact us and let us know of any other activities that we may have left out. Image via Flickr by Honza Soukup

According to the Insurance Information Institute, over 870,000 vehicles were stolen in 2020, increasing 9.2% over the previous year's data. So, what can you do to prevent your vehicle from getting stolen? Experts suggest locking your car, closing your windows, parking in well-lit areas, and using a car alarm. But, of course, these seem like obvious ideas, and they don't always deter a theft. Savvy car thieves can circumvent locks and alarms, and some thieves have no problem taking a vehicle in broad daylight. In 2019, authorities recovered 56.1% of stolen vehicles, and of those, 30% sustained damage to some degree. You might not be able to prevent a thief from stealing your car, but you can take steps to recover it. The faster you retrieve your vehicle, the less opportunity thieves will have to cause any real damage. Installing or activating a GPS retrieval system such as OnStar gives you a real chance at getting your car back quickly. Here's how it works. What Is OnStar? OnStar provides subscription-based communication services for automobiles. As a subsidiary of General Motors, you'll find OnStar-equipped vehicles throughout the Chevrolet and GMC lineup. Most new cars come with a free trial subscription allowing you to test the service. OnStar provides various services, including navigation, emergency, hands-free calling, remote diagnostics, and security. OnStar has a menu of various plans offering different levels of services. OnStar's Safety and Security Plan includes Stolen Vehicle Assistance, which provides the tools to recover your vehicle if the unthinkable happens. Stolen Vehicle Assistance If you have a factory-installed theft-deterrent system in your car and you arm it, OnStar's Stolen Vehicle Assistance will send you a theft alarm notification when your vehicle alarm activates. This early warning allows you to see what happened. If you go outside and see your car driving away, you can immediately report it stolen to OnStar. Once you contact OnStar, an advisor will contact the local authorities and report your vehicle as stolen. Then, they can activate your car's GPS and begin tracking it. The technology can be used to find your vehicle and can remotely slow your vehicle down in some cases. Once your stolen vehicle comes to a stop, OnStar can activate the Remote Ignition Block system. Once activated, the Remote Ignition Block prevents the thief from restarting your car. At this point, the thief typically abandons the vehicle, leaving it for the authorities to pick up. Car thieves steal cars for various reasons. Some might be looking for a joy ride, while others might want to take parts off the vehicle to use or sell. Professional car thieves might sell the entire car to a chop shop or some other illicit group. A joy ride loses its appeal when OnStar starts slowing down the vehicle. Taking parts off a stolen car takes time, and OnStar's GPS locator can cut that time drastically, sometimes before the criminals can get to work. In addition to the Stolen Vehicle Assistance service, you get access to five other services. Automatic Crash Response OnStar uses built-in vehicle sensors to activate the Automatic Crash Response System. A specially trained OnStar advisor connects to your vehicle via a hands-free call when the sensors detect a collision. The advisor can help by contacting emergency services and first responders to report your location using the GPS locator. Also, you can ask the advisor to contact someone from your emergency contacts list. If you need a tow truck, they can help with that as well. The advisor will automatically notify first responders if you get injured in an accident and can't ask for help. OnStar sensors can predict the likelihood of serious injuries using their Injury Severity Prediction algorithm. Emergency Services You don't have to get into a car accident to need emergency help. For instance, you might have injured yourself or someone with you, and getting to a hospital on your own might not be possible. With the push of a button, you can connect with an OnStar advisor. Your advisor can dispatch an ambulance to your location, getting you the help you need fast. Crisis Assist When severe weather or a natural disaster strikes, OnStar can assist you in many ways. OnStar coordinates with first responders and emergency services personnel during a crisis and will give you information, special routing to safety if necessary, and the comfort of talking with a human being. In addition, your OnStar advisor can connect you with loved ones to let them know your situation, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Roadside Assistance Sometimes, the situation doesn't require medical personnel or the police. For example, you might have a flat tire, run out of gas, or have a dead battery. Again, with the push of a button, an OnStar advisor will answer the call and dispatch a tow truck, more fuel, a jump start, or whatever you might need to get you to your destination. Turn-By-Turn Navigation You might find yourself lost and maybe even misplaced your cellphone. Not to worry, OnStar can help. When you connect with an OnStar advisor, they can download turn-by-turn directions right to your vehicle. Then, if necessary, they can call out the turns to you as you drive. OnStar advisors have access to databases with over 1 million businesses, landmarks, and locations that don't even have an address. You don't want your vehicle stolen any more than you want to break down, or get in a car crash. Yet, these situations do occur. So, do yourself a favor and prepare for these incidents by enabling the OnStar system in your car, truck, or SUV. You'll be glad you did the first time you need to push that blue button to call an OnStar advisor. If you live in the Clarksville, MD, area and want to learn more about OnStar services, you can contact us at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC. One of our friendly, knowledgeable staff will answer any questions and happily demonstrate how the system works. Remember, with OnStar you don't have to drive alone. Help is one blue button push away. Image via Flickr by cletch

Eating out provides a break from preparing a meal at home and then having to clean up afterward. However, if you have special dietary needs, finding a restaurant that offers a variety of plates for you can be difficult. For instance, over the years, many people have learned that Paleo diet plays a role in reducing inflammation and improving your gut health. Unfortunately, not every restaurant serves Paleo diet. So, it can be difficult to find a suitable option on the menu when you're out and about with loved ones. Thank goodness Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC has come to the rescue. Read on for our top five Paleo-friendly dining options in Washington, D.C. Elizabeth's Gone Raw Elizabeth's Gone Raw is an upscale vegan restaurant. Their entire menu is plant-based, with minimal cooking, so you don't have to worry about oils. Each item on the menu is created with seasonal ingredients to provide customers with the highest quality available. The only caveat is, the unique nature of the menu — and the limited hours dedicated to bringing them to your table — greatly limits the menu. Currently, they're featuring Purple Potato Foam. It's grilled fava beans, spaghetti squash noodles, and charred vegetable jus. Customers seem to love the Salt Baked HoneySweet Onion Soup. This option is gruyere espuma served with summer truffles and cheese crisp. The flavors mingle in your mouth for an experience unlike any other. What's more, their menu is provocative and ends on a high note with Prickly Pear Raspberry Mousse. The lemon verbena ice cream provides the perfect balance with a bit of tartness. The restaurant is located at 1341 L St. N.W. in Suite 1 and only opens Friday and Saturday nights from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. This high-quality establishment offers guests a special fine-dining experience with a full six-course vegan tasting menu. The tasting menu is $85 per person, and the wine pairing is $60 per person. You can make a reservation online at OpenTable or call 202-347-8349. They can prepare all items completely raw. Just be sure to make arrangements with the restaurant ahead of time so they can accommodate your needs. The Fainting Goat Go for brunch at The Fainting Goat to take advantage of their bottomless bubbles. The mimosas are enough to make anyone faint (certainly not literally). For brunch, they have quite a few menu items of all diets. Keep things simple and grab yourself an Avocado Toast. It comes with pickled red onion, a soft egg, and arugula. For dinner, we suggest you try the Fennel and Citrus Salad. It's a healthy serving of arugula, Cara Cara oranges, and grapefruit. Follow it up with the Before the Butcher (meatless) burger for a satisfying meal. The Fainting Goat, at 1330 U St. N.W., offers brunch on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 11 a.m to 5 p.m. Sunday dinner is served from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, they open from noon to 10 p.m. They're closed on Monday and Tuesday, though. The outfit offers takeout and delivery options as well. If you want to dine in with a large party, call ahead (202-735-0344) for reservations. Flower Child Flower Child has the perfect variety of menu options that can be customized to satisfy most dietary demands. And they have a serene atmosphere that befits their name. Also, the welcoming staff has brilliant suggestions if you're at a loss for what to order. This hidden gem has great open seating and wonderful decor that manages to put you in the best of moods. Their hibiscus tea is divine. If you go, order the vegan coconut curry. It is smooth and so filling. Flower Child is located at 2112 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. To order or pick up, call 202-919-3646. NuVegan Cafe This little surprise delivers delicious food at an affordable price. NuVegan Cafe has a mission, which they take very seriously, to expose your taste buds to fresh food that tastes great. They serve 100% vegan soul food made fresh daily. The casual dining establishment hopes to generate awareness, promote responsible living, and encourage healthy choices. They serve their food cafeteria-style and in line. NuVegan Cafe also has macaroni and cheese for the kids, kale salad, and cinnamon rolls for dessert. They have two branches in the D.C. area to make healthy and responsible eating accessible and convenient. Hours of operation are Monday through Saturday from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. For information about their menu or to ask about their catering services, call 202-242-1700. The Pig The Pig is unique because it's a barbecue establishment with Paleo options. Just be sure to read the menu carefully before you order. The friendly wait staff is happy to help you customize your order where possible and will work with you to get your ideal meal on your plate. Everything on their menu, including alcoholic beverages, is available to go if diners prefer to eat in the comfort of their own home. A loyal Paleo favorite off the menu is the Eatwell Farm Salad. It's perhaps the most satisfying salad out there. It's a lovely collection of fresh greens, carrots, radishes, tomato, and focaccia croutons topped with a citrus vinaigrette. Check their website for updated hours of operation. To place an order for takeout, call 202-290-2821. There it is. Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC has enjoyed sharing with you our picks for the top five Paleo-friendly dining options in Washington, D.C. What do you think of our suggestions? Did we miss your favorite spot to score some Paleo-friendly lunch? Let us know. Leave a message and we'll be happy to include your ideas on our list. Why Choose Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC? Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC offers one-of-a-kind service to every customer. With years of experience and a comprehensive understanding of our vehicles, our dedicated team of professionals stands ready to help you. We promise to try our best and get you into the new or used vehicle of your dreams. If you're looking to trade in or sell your current vehicle for something that better fits your needs and lifestyle, you can start the process right away. Start your two-minute appraisal process right now and get your true cash offer.? Image via Flickr by Mark Bonica

Enjoying a plate of fresh seafood is a great way to end a long day or just take a break. Crab cakes are very popular in Maryland, and it's a great place to try lots of delicious recipes. Here are some of the best spots in Maryland for crab cakes. Jimmy's Famous Seafood Jimmy's Famous Seafood is a Marylander favorite and was founded by a Greek immigrant in the 1970s. This Baltimore restaurant's food truck often appears in popular places around town, and you can look online to check their schedule. At the restaurant, you can enjoy gourmet crab cakes, crab cake sliders, crab toast with garlic bread, or Crabby Chicken, breaded chicken on a roll with their famous crab dip. The Crabquito is a crab taquito with queso sauce, salsa crema, and Old Bay guacamole. With the seafood burrito, you'll get crab meat, shrimp, scallops, rice, vegetables, salsa, and nachos. The Crabby Waffle is a crab sandwich with waffles where bread would normally be, and the Crab Cake Egg Roll comes with cream cheese, mango ponzu, and spicy mayonnaise. The Crabby Dog is a hot dog with crab dip on top. This restaurant's soup menu is rich and delicious. You can choose from Maryland crab soup, oyster stew, half-and-half soup, and cream of crab soup. Beef lovers can't get enough of Jimmy's ribeye, New York strip, filet mignon, prime rib, and T-bone steaks. Thames Street Oyster House At Baltimore's historic Fells Point on the waterfront, you'll be able to taste crab cakes and other seafood dishes made from some of the best catches in the region. The Thames Street Oyster House offers 10 varieties of oysters, caught fresh daily. You can choose the ones you want to try with the raw oyster bar. The Cast Iron Crab Cakes are made with 100% Maryland-caught deluxe blue crab. Its tenderness and delicate sweetness make it one of the most sought-after forms of crab meat. You'll also get locally sourced grilled asparagus, potato salad, and Eastern Shore cocktail sauce. Other main entrees include traditional New England fish and chips, Block Island scallops, Kent Narrows rockfish, Gulf of Maine lobster and risotto, and a 16-ounce Black Angus bone-in ribeye steak. If you want to grab some seafood that's easy to eat on the go, consider one of their sandwiches. Customers love the New England lobster roll, the Rhode Island fried clam roll, and the Old Bay shrimp salad roll. Bouillabaisse seafood stew is available on Fridays, and whole fish is prepared fresh every Saturday. One-Eyed Mike's If you prefer a restaurant with a calmer feel and a comfortable atmosphere, try a plate of seafood at One-Eyed Mike's in Baltimore. Crab cake lovers will love their unique variety. They're seasoned with stone-ground mustard sauce. The Bond Street Burger is named after the street One-Eyed Mike's sits on, and it comes with caramelized onion, blue cheese, mayonnaise, and tomatoes. Dinner entrees include the Bavette Steak, an 8-ounce USDA prime steak served with roasted fingerling potatoes, asparagus, herbs, and garlic sauce. Mike's Sea Scallops Plate comes with black-eyed pea succotash, lump crab meat, and tomatoes. If you want to fill up on crab cakes, choose the Crab Cake Dinner with Parmesan cheese Brussels sprouts, fennel slaw, and house tartar sauce. To impress a date with a rarer dish, ask if they'd be interested in Mike's succulent Duck Breast plate with warm German potato salad and blackberry barbecue sauce. For a lighter meal, go with French onion soup, Caesar salad, or Jalapeno nachos with olives, tomatoes, charred scallions, and sour cream. One-Eyed Mike's has a full bar, so you can enjoy a Manhattan, a glass of wine, or a pint of draft beer with your meal. The Land of Kush If you prefer an entirely vegan menu with dishes inspired by ancient cooking tradition, take a seat in Baltimore at The Land of Kush. Every single item on the menu is 100% plant-based, so you won't find any actual crab cakes. The Land of Kush crab cakes are among their bestsellers, and they're made with Old Bay-seasoned seitan wheat protein. You can order them with honey mustard, mustard, barbecue, or tartar sauces. Another favorite among Marylanders is the chickpea burger. It comes with a chickpea patty seasoned with Kush's own mix of spices alongside all of the normal trimmings. For a quickly made and easy-to-eat meal, grab one of their wraps. They're available with lentil burger chunks, chickpea burger chunks, Kush rib chunks, Curry Chicken slices, carrot tuna, or crab cake pieces. American-style chicken salad and veggie wraps are also available. Avenue Kitchen & Bar Just around the corner from Wyman Park in Baltimore, you'll find Avenue Kitchen & Bar. This place has a variety of wonderfully presented and prepared dishes, including grilled octopus, Ahi tuna, crispy brisket tacos, smoked mushroom tacos, and crab cakes with garlic mashed potatoes. The Jumbo Lump Crab Dip comes with toasted bread, house-made tortilla chips, and pickled vegetables. You can also select a crab cake sandwich with lettuce, tomato, tartar remoulade, and a brioche bun. The Avenue Burger comes with Creekstone Farms beef, Cheddar cheese, caramelized onions, Old Bay aioli, lettuce, and tomato, and the A.K.B. Fried Chicken comes with jalapeno cornbread and buffalo sauce. You can also try chicken and waffles with honey butter, a vanilla bean waffle, chipotle syrup, and a crispy chicken breast. Finish off your dinner with ice cream or Jett's Cookie Sandwich. Each of these Maryland restaurants offers its own unique take on crab cakes and other seafood cuisine. If you have a favorite restaurant that we missed, contact us at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet BMW to let us know. Why You Should Choose Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC can offer you a great price on your current car, truck, or SUV, even if you don't buy another vehicle from us. We offer an extensive inventory of new and used vehicles, and you can complete the entire purchase and trade-in process online. Image via Flickr by SheriW

Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC knows that truck owners rely on their trucks not only for transportation but also for work and play. Buying your truck costs you a lot of money, so you want to protect that investment as much as possible. Unfortunately, many drivers ignore the basics of caring for their trucks. That's why we created this list of tips to help your truck last longer and save you money in the long run. Check and Change Your Oil Image via Flickr by nan palmero Nearly every driver understands that your truck's oil needs to be changed regularly. Yet, many don't know the interval. Mechanics generally agree that it should be changed every 3,000-6,000 miles, but that's a pretty extensive range. Some models require changing the oil at 3,000 miles, while others recommend 6,000, and some fall in between. Check your owner's manual for your truck's exact recommendation. In addition, you should use only the manufacturer's specified oil. Your engine operates at high temperatures, and the manufacturer designed it to work with an oil of a specific viscosity and weight. Using something different can damage your engine, seals, and more, leading to serious repairs. As your truck ages, a high mileage oil might be better as these protect older engine parts. Not all oils are created equal, so consult your dealer for a recommendation. Checking your oil between oil changes can help you avoid engine problems before they occur. It only takes a minute, and you can do this while you fuel up. You should look at the color and consistency as well as the level. The oil should be light brown, almost like maple syrup. If your oil looks black, it needs replacing. If your truck isn't due for an oil change for another 2,000 miles, you might have a more severe problem that's causing your oil to expire, or you might be using the wrong oil. Low oil levels could indicate a leak somewhere. Top off your oil and recheck it the next time you fill up your gas tank. If the oil level has dipped again, bring your truck in for an inspection right away. At Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, our service center technicians have the expertise to diagnose the problem and fix it. In most cases, your service takes less than 30 minutes, getting you back to your busy life quickly. Wash and Wax Your Truck Not only will a good wash and wax make your truck look shiny and new, it helps protect your investment from rust and corrosion. If you drive in wintry weather, salt and sand pose a constant threat of corrosion. If you live near the ocean, the salty air coats your truck, slowly corroding it. A good wash will clean this off. Spring for the wax while you're washing your truck. Wax provides the shine, but it also acts as a barrier to help prevent those corrosive materials from penetrating the metal. If you love off-road adventures, pay more attention to your undercarriage. Mud bogs are fun to blast through, but that mud gets everywhere underneath your truck and even in the engine compartment. It can cake on in warmer climates and cause all sorts of problems, from superficial rust and corrosion to damaged engine, steering, braking, and suspension components. So clean your truck as soon as you can after taking it through the mud. Take Care of Your Tires Your monstrous 33-inch off-road tires look great on your lifted truck and can handle the rugged terrain. However, taking care of them requires maintaining the proper air pressure, and this goes for any tire, not just off-road tires. Too little air causes uneven and quick wear. Too much pressure can lead to raised treads and more uneven wear. Many off-road enthusiasts lower their truck's tire pressure for more traction. This practice works, but return your tires to the proper pressure when you get back on the pavement. A portable compressor can do the trick and costs less than $100. Rotate your tires regularly. Your owner's manual will have a recommended interval. You should know that the pattern for rotating tires on a 4x4 vehicle differs from that of a 4x2 truck. In addition, directional tires change the pattern as these were designed. We know the difference at Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC and can rotate your tires correctly in minutes. An unbalanced tire can also lead to uneven wear. We attach small weights to the rims to balance a tire, which eliminates wobble as the wheels turn. Unfortunately, these weights can break off, especially on a truck that drives over rugged terrain often. Steering and Suspension Maintenance Your truck works harder and in different ways than cars or SUVs, thus putting additional pressure on your steering and suspension. You should have your steering system appropriately aligned to help avoid uneven wear on your tires. Unless you have a very expensive machine to align your steering system, you'll need to find a quality service center to do the job for you. At Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC, we can check your alignment and balance your tires, if necessary, in minutes. It costs much less than you might imagine and can save you money in more expensive repairs to your steering and suspension systems or having to replace those 33-inch tires due to uneven wear. You shouldn't ignore your truck's suspension either, especially if you love off-road excursions. Inspect your axles, springs, shocks, and coils after every adventure. That rugged terrain bites back every so often, cracking and breaking components that you might overlook. If you feel something different in the way your truck handles, you should take your truck to a competent mechanic for a thorough inspection. We Pay Top-Dollar for Your Trade At Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC we love trucks. We love them even more when they come in with 100,000 miles, 200,000 miles, and even the occasional 300,000 miles on them. When you have us service your truck, we take special care of it so that someday, you too might reach 300,000 miles. If you've taken extra special care of your truck, we'll pay top dollar for your trade. We are so confident in our trade offers, we'll buy your truck from you even if you don't buy another vehicle from us. You can use our online trade evaluation tool to get a true cash offer. When you're ready to sell or trade, come on in and we'll cut you a check.

There's a lot of reasons why the Chevrolet Colorado is one of the more popular pickup trucks. People seem to love its power, reliability, and comfort. However, one common reason that so many people have chosen this truck is due to its towing capacity. With the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado, you can tow a wide range of stuff, from boats to small trailers. Before you go ahead and purchase a Chevy Colorado, you should ensure that it has enough towing capacity to suit your personal needs. After all, everyone has their own towing needs and while the Colorado can tow a lot, that doesn't mean it can tow everything. Below, we'll detail what you need to know about the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado's towing capacity and why you should seriously consider purchasing this as your next truck. The 2021 Chevrolet Colorado's Towing Capacity To start, it's important to understand that there is no single towing capacity for the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. How much you are able to tow with this truck depends on the style and trim you get. There are three trim options available with the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado: the WT, LT and Z71. For each of these trims, different options exist that can impact the trailering capacity, such as whether you get 2WD or 4WD, or the engine size. The WT trim, on the Colorado that has a crew cab and 5'2'' box, has the following maximum trailering amounts, depending on the options you get with it: 3,500 lbs. with the 2.5L engine and 2WD 7,600 lbs. with the 2.8L engine and 4WD 7,000 lbs. with the 3.6L engine and 2WD 7,000 lbs. with the 3.6L engine and 4WD For the LT trim, the specifications are the same, however, there is an additional option. With this trim, you can also get the 2.8L engine and 2WD, which has a max towing capacity of 7,700 lbs. Finally, with the Z71 trim, there is only the 2.8L/4WD, 3.6L/2WD and 3.6L/4WD options available, with the towing capacities remaining the same as the WT and LT models. All of these numbers are slightly different depending on if you get the extended cab or the 6'2''  box. As a general rule, if you're getting an engine with 2.8L or greater, you should have a towing capacity of at least 7,000. For the 2.5L engines, your towing capacity will instead be around 3,500. When browsing through Chevrolet Colorado models, it's a good idea to get the specific towing capacities for the options you selected so that you know exactly what you're getting. What Can You Tow with the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado? Of course, knowing the trailering capacity doesn't tell you the full picture. Knowing that your truck can tow 3,500 lbs doesn't help much if you don't know the weight of what you're towing. In addition, you also need to factor in the weight of the trailer you're using. To help you out, here are some average weights of common trailer sizes: Canoe or Kayak trailer: 200 lbs Fishing boat trailer: 600 lbs Small open utility trailer: 700 lbs Car trailer: 1,900 lbs Large boat trailer: 2,200 lbs Small travel trailer: 2,800 lbs Large travel trailer: 6,700 lbs 5th wheel camper: 12,700 lbs Once you know the weight of the trailer you'll be using, you then need to add in the weight of the item itself. This will largely depend on the item itself, but below are some additional averages that may assist you: Motorcycle: 400 lbs Kayak or canoe: 35 lbs Fishing boat: 3,500 lbs Camper: 5,200 lbs Finally, keep in mind any weight that you add to an item. For example, if you're towing a fishing boat and you load it up with extra equipment and supplies, this will add to the weight. You want to take everything into consideration before you attempt to tow something too heavy. Other Benefits of the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado As you can see, the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado is capable of towing quite a lot. Unless you have some serious towing to do, it can likely handle your towing needs. But the benefits of this truck don't stop with its towing capabilities. There are a few other great benefits that may convince you to get this truck over another. For example, this Chevy gets most of its towing power from its engine, which also provides a fun and responsive ride. There's also the available 4WD system, which makes driving off-road or in poor weather conditions much easier and safer. In addition, it comes with a spacious bed, which provides plenty of room to haul things around, whether you're going camping for the weekend or bringing back some supplies to work on your home. To top it all off, the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado has a comfortable interior. There's plenty of space for both the driver and the passengers, and the seats are made of soft, but durable, upholstery. Finally, there's an updated infotainment system in the center of the console that makes it easy to play your favorite media or get directions. Is The Chevrolet Colorado Right for You? If you need a truck that can tow just about anything, without sacrificing quality in other areas, then you should definitely consider the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado. However, only you know what sort of towing capacity you'll need. While the Chevrolet Colorado can tow a lot, it can't tow everything. Get Your Next 2021 Chevrolet Colorado in Clarksville, Maryland If you think the 2021 Chevrolet Colorado sounds like the truck for you, Koons Clarksville Chevrolet GMC is here to help you find the perfect one. Our expert sales staff is always available to answer any questions you may have about this truck or set you up with a test drive. Browse our online inventory to get started or schedule a time to visit our dealership by contacting us today. We look forward to showing you all that the Colorado has to offer and getting you behind the wheel of your new favorite truck. Image via Chevrolet