Auto Care Saturday

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2011-12-24T11:00:00.001-05:00

Dear Auto Care Saturday Folks,

It is the Saturday before Christmas and only a few days before we turn the calender and start the New Year 2012. As you prepare for the Holiday's I wanted to share with you some of the ways God blessed us through serving you.

In 2011, we hosted four Auto Care Saturday events. At each event we served an average of 33 cars for a total of 132 cars in 2011. Each car holds around 4.75 quarts of oil. So we changed over 156 gallons of oil along with 132 oil filters. When you think about it, each oil change requires your hood to be opened at least twice, once for the inspection and again for the change. So in the course of a year, we opened and closed a hood 264 times. During each inspection we top off your fluids (transmission, coolant, power steering, brake fluid, and washer fluid), the one fluid every car needs is washer fluid. This year we used over 48 gallons of the blue fluid.

Each Auto Care event is the same yet unique. During the Spring Auto Care Event we used electronic registration for the first time. The result was more consistent information from you and more accurate supply purchases before the event.

The Summer Auto Care event is always more hectic than any other. It is when we change the air filter along with the oil and oil filter. The special thing about air filers is almost every one of the 36 cars we served requires a unique filter engineered to fit a specific engine. In other words we had over 32 different air filters compared that to only 14 different oil filters.

At the Fall event we offered our first "Basics of Auto Care Class". Bryan Conley headed up the class going over the basics of tire wear and tips on how to change a flat tire. We hope the class will help you become more familiar with your car and how to care for it. We plan to continue the class option during the spring and fall Auto Care Sessions in 2012.

At the Winter event, we made changes to our inspection sheet. The changes will help streamline the registration process and reduce some of the administrative preparation for each event. Look for continued improvements in 2012.

All these changes along with the regular Auto Care Saturday activities, would have been impossible without the support of Christian Services of Howard County who provides much of the practical support. Covering the cost of the oil, oil filters, air filters, and the rest of the fluids. The guys at the Ellicott City Napa Store, located on US 40. They always seem to have the filter or part we need. The volunteers who staff the registration table, respond to your electronic registration, bend over each engine looking at the belts and hoses, the driver who takes care to move the car safely between each work area, the guys who are willing to get their hands, arms, hair, faces, and clothing covered with oil, and the ones who bring us food and drink to keep us going through the day. Thank you standing and serving with us.

During the past year some of our volunteers had life changing events. Tim, one of the founders of this ministry, was in a motorcycle accident. While the injuries where minor for a motorcycle accident, the recovery will be long and painful. Dr. Michael, one of our faithful auto inspectors, had a massive heart attack and was thought dead several times. I glad to report he is recovering under the watchful eye of Anthony and Carl, his sons, and fellow Auto Care inspectors.

One more item, the current leadership of Auto Care Saturday is planning on stepping down at the end of 2012. At the moment God has not provided another team of leaders to take our place. Please join us in praying God will see it part of His plan to send us new leaders and continue this ministry into 2013.

I started this little note saying how we were thankful for you. You give us the opportunity to serve. The leaders of this ministry are all Christians and when the Holy Spirit changed our hearts, He gave us the desire to share that love with others. Auto Care is one of the ways God has given us to show our love for Him by caring for you. So thank you, and from the entire Auto Care Saturday Leadership Team....

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Your Auto Care Gang

410.442.7677 ext 299

autocare@chapelgate.org

http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/

A Day in the Life of your Auto Care Gang...

2011-09-30T17:08:00.000-04:00

After a week of rain, we had hoped Saturday would start off cool and warm as the day went on. NOT! It was like serving in England. The kind of cool that chilled you to your bones, since most of us where dressed for warmer weather. Thanks to Barb and Debby giving us extra blankets (always good to have in your car) several of us had warm legs and feet.

Our merry gang of Auto Care folks, quickly fell into our normal routine of service. Jamette, took charge of the front of the house checking in each guest. Melissa, Abraham, and Zack took care of greeting each one of the gals and recording relevant information about their car.

Greg, Dale, Abraham, Hanna, and Zack topped off the fluids, checked tire pressure, and prepped the cars for the next stage.

Mike, our driver, moved the cars from the inspection area, to the oil changing ramps, and finally to the pick up location.

Bryan, Fred, Stefan, and Dave changed the oil and oil filter on over 30 cars.

Mary Ellen, provided us with lunch, pizza, and warmed us up later with hot chocolate. A special thank you to everyone who brought us donuts in the morning.

This was the first Auto Care where we offered a class. These classes are designed to help our gals learn more about the basic operation of their cars. The teacher was Bryan and he had four students. The class was well received and we plan on hosting the next class in the spring.

We ended the day at The Burger Joint. It was a good way to end a cold yet busy day.

Your Auto Care Gang.

Register Today

2011-08-19T09:54:00.000-04:00

We hope everyone has been enjoying their summer. As you get ready for the cooler fall, it is time to get your car ready as well. The Fall Auto Care Saturday is September 17. We will begin our Auto Care Registration today. See link below.

As a reminder, we are a general auto maintenance ministry, with limited facilities and time. That is why we are restricted to oil changes and minor auto repairs.

New this fall we are offering a series of classes on “the Basics of Auto Care”. This series will to help you know more about your car, and give you some hands on experience working on your car. Register for the class at the end of the registration form.

Remember this is a first come first serve ministry. At the Fall Auto Care Saturday we will continue to be more mindful of your registered time slot and serve you accordingly. If you need to make a change to your registered time slot, please e-mail us at: autocare@chapelgate.org.

Last day to register is September 14th. --

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Gang

410-442-7677 ext 299

Click here to register for the Fall Auto Care Saturday - September 17

Thanks for the Summer....

2011-07-01T15:15:00.000-04:00

Team,

As we approach the 4th of July Holiday, we wanted to make sure we thanked you for all your hard work. Truly a reflection of the Holy Spirit taking our minds and hands to care for thus around us.

See you in the Fall on September 17.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Bryan, Dwayne, and Greg

Summer Auto Care Saturday June 11th

2011-05-20T16:33:00.000-04:00

Hey,

The June Summer Auto Care Saturday is less that 30 days away. Register today before the time slot you need is full.

Click here to Register Today!

Loving God by Loving Others,

Yout Auto Care Saturday Team.

New Year, New way to Register...

2011-02-22T11:07:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! Martin Luther King Day, Ground Hog Day, Valentines Day & Presidents Days,

I think those are all the holidays we have celebrated since last time we communicated with you. I hope you had time to give each holiday its appropriate celebratory expression.

As you recover from the series of celebrations, please mark your calendar and register for the next Auto Care Saturday scheduled to take place on March 19. Normally I would ask you to either call or e-mail your registration to us.  This year we are moving to an electronic registration form. It should help us with the administration part of the ministry.

Thank you for using the form to register. Registration starts today and end March 16th. We look forward to seeing you on March 19th.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Saturday Team

(410) 442-7677 ext 299

autocare@chapelgate.org

We have invited you to fill out the form Spring Auto Care Saturday Registration Form. To fill it out, visit:
https://spreadsheets.google.com/a/chapelgate.org/viewform?formkey=dEVNQXdMTjdlbFQtWmJ6Tk13T0RIbkE6MQ

God's Love for Us and Others...

2010-12-18T17:13:00.001-05:00

Last Saturday we held our Winter Auto Care Saturday at Chapelgate Presbyterian Church. The temperature was cold, but not as cold as the previous day nor the day to follow. There was snow on the ground, but none on the pavement. That allowed our guys to work on the ground without getting both cold and wet. We did not have every volunteer we desired, but we never felt overwhelmed or frantic.

It seemed that every time we had any reason to feel anxious, God would intervene and remind us that this was His event. Because He wanted to care for these women, He provided the best weather of the weekend. Because He knows we grow tired and discouraged, He limited the number of guests who could attend. Because He wanted to feed a homeless family, He provided two lunches for our volunteers. One we ate and one we gave to the homeless family.

As you prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, we hope the events at Auto Care will remind you just how much He goes out of the way to show His love for you.

Auto Care Saturday would be impossible without the help of the following people and organizations:

Melissa C
Bryan C
Dale D
Jesse
Nathan W
Mike C
Greg B
Abraham C
Zack O
Fred K
Tim S
Dave S

Lunch was provided by a small group from Calvary Community Church and Penny S.
All our automotive supplies were provided by Napa via Christian Services of Howard County
The following Churches provided volunteers

Calvary Community Church
Chapelgate Presbyterian Church
DaySpring Presbyterian Church
Oak Ridge Community Church

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys!

Served 35 cars and another 3 to 4 cars of the volunteers

American Made Cars - 16

Chevrolet - 5
Dodge - 4
Pontiac - 1
Ford - 5
Chrysler - 1

Foreign Made Cars - 19

Honda - 4
Mitsubishi - 1
Toyota - 7
Nissan - 2
Subaru - 1
Mercedes - 1
Mazda - 3

9 Cars made in the 1990 (Oldest Car 1993)
26 Cars made after 2000 (Newest Car 2010)

Last day to register...

2010-12-08T09:35:00.000-05:00

If you are a procrastinator like me, then you have waited until today to register. Well do not wait any longer. We need the next few days to complete preparations for Saturday. So if you still would like to bring your car on Saturday please follow the instructions below. Please note the morning slot (8:00 - 9:30AM) is full.

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

* 8:00 AM—9:30 AM - This slot is full
* 10:00 AM—11:30 AM
* 1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

* Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
* Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
* Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

* Name (First and Last)
* e-mail address
* Phone number

We will use this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299. The last day to register is 8 December.

--
Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys

410.442.7677 ext 299

autocare@chapelgate.org

http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com

Happy Thanksgiving...Sign Up Today...

2010-11-22T10:56:00.000-05:00

It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving is less than a week away. The weather is colder and the days are shorter. A perfect time for us help you get your car ready for the winter driving season. Over half the slots are taken. Sign up today before a time slot you want is full.

In order for us to be ready for your visit, we need the following information:

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

* 8:00 AM—9:30 AM
* 10:00 AM—11:30 AM
* 1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

* Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
* Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
* Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

* Name (First and Last)
* e-mail address
* Phone number

We will use this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299. The last day to register is 8 December.

--
Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys

410.442.7677 ext 299

autocare@chapelgate.org

http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/

Winter Auto Care Saturday Registrations Starts Today...

2010-11-11T10:49:00.000-05:00

Happy Veteran's Day! Make an effort to talk or pray for someone you know who served our country in a branch of our Armed Forces.

It is hard to believe the holidays are fast approaching. It is a good time to get your oil changed, fluids checked and new wiper blades installed for the winter. Your Auto Care Saturday team is getting ready to serve you on 11 December for the Winter Auto Care Saturday. In order for us to be ready for your visit, we need the following information:

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

* 8:00 AM—9:30 AM
* 10:00 AM—11:30 AM
* 1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

* Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
* Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
* Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

* Name (First and Last)
* e-mail address
* Phone number

We will use this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299. The last day to register is 8 December.

--
Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys

410.442.7677 ext 299

autocare@chapelgate.org

http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/

Falling Behind...

2010-10-25T09:23:00.000-04:00

Auto Care Folks,

Sorry about the delay in getting something out about the Fall Auto Care Saturday. It has been a crazy September and October for us and we are still not done. So this is just a note to let you know we are working on a blog report on the day and the celebration. We also have pictures from the celebration. We will post those shortly as well.

Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys!

Register Today...

2010-09-12T16:11:00.000-04:00

Things are coming together. There has been a great response from those called to serve you at Auto Care Saturday. Now we need to know if you are planning on attending. If you have already registered and received a confirmation e-mail, you do not need to reply and thank you for registering early. For the rest of us procrastinators, now is the time to sign up. Here are the times available:

Between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM there are five open spaces
Between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM there are five open spaces
Between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM, FULL

In order for us to be ready for your visit, we need the following information:

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

* 8:00 AM—9:30 AM
* 10:00 AM—11:30 AM
* 1:00 PM—2:30 PM - This time is FULL

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

* Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
* Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
* Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

* Name (First and Last)
* e-mail address
* Phone number

We will us this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299. The last day to register is September 15th.

Don't forget we are celebrating 10 years of Auto Care Saturday that evening. If you would like information about the event, please contact Holly Crawford
--
Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys

410.442.7677 ext 299

autocare@chapelgate.org

http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/

Auto Recall, but not for a car in your driveway.....

2010-09-01T20:46:00.000-04:00

Ferrari 458 Italias

Just when you thought auto recalls were limited to you and your $20,000 Honda, Ford, Toyota, Chevrolet, or Hyundai. Here is an article reporting that owners of the Ferrari 458, with a sticker price of $230,000, are not immune from the recall bug.

If you are one of the 1,200 owners effected by this recall, get your car serviced right away. Then stop by Auto Care on the 18th.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys!

Ferrari has issued a recall for its 458 Italias. The cause? Some of them are bursting into flames.

Since the sports cars left the factory in Northern Italy, at least six of the cars have caught fire, the Daily Mail reports.

The recall effects all 1,248 owners of the $230,000 luxury auto.

The problem seems to lie with glue.

"The wheel arch assembly and heat shield which incorporates both mechanical fasteners and adhesive may, in the case of particularly high temperatures and as a result of heat produced by the exhaust, cause the deformation of the assembly itself," a Ferrari rep told the Daily Mail.

"Such deformation brings the assembly excessively close to the exhaust causing the adhesive used to overheat and produce smoke or, in the case of particularly high temperatures, ignite."

The much-touted 458 has a 4.5-litre V8 engine which gives it a 0-62mph time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 202mph.

Owners who will have to bring in their Ferraris for a check-up include musician Eric Clapton and British soccer player Louis Saha, reports the Daily Mail.
Ferrari will reportedly repair the pricey sports cars, free of charge.

Time is Running Out....

2010-08-30T15:43:00.000-04:00

According to the count down clock on the blog page, there are only 18 days left until the Fall Auto Care Saturday. The early response has been so good so space is limited. Between 8:00 AM and 9:30 AM there are only seven open spaces, Between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM there are only nine open spaces and between 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM, there is only 1 space left. Sign up today while all the time slots are open.

In order for us to be ready for your visit, we need the following information:

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

* 8:00 AM—9:30 AM
* 10:00 AM—11:30 AM
* 1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

* Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
* Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
* Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

* Name (First and Last)
* e-mail address
* Phone number

We will us this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299. The last day to register is September 15th.

Don't forget we are celebrating 10 years of Auto Care Saturday that evening. If you would like information about the event, please contact Holly Crawford holly_crawford@hcpss.org.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys!

Registration for the Fall Auto Care Saturday starts today...

2010-08-20T05:59:00.000-04:00

The summer is almost over. frankly I will not miss it. Did you know we had over 5 days where the real temperature was over 100 degrees! With Labor Day fast approaching, your Auto Care Saturday team is getting ready to serve you on 18 September for the Fall Auto Care Saturday. In order for us to be ready for your visit, we need the following information:

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

* 8:00 AM—9:30 AM
* 10:00 AM—11:30 AM
* 1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

* Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
* Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
* Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

* Name (First and Last)
* e-mail address
* Phone number

We will us this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299. The last day to register is September 15th.

The 3 H's just wore us out....

2010-06-15T20:57:00.001-04:00

Saturday was one for the record books. Maybe not in haze. The sun was very bright and hot on Saturday. Maybe not in temperature. The record for June 12th was 96 degrees we only experienced 92 degrees. Maybe not in humidity. The normal humidity for June 12th is 70%. We experienced 90%, that is very high. When we finished loading the last item into the 1993 Ford F-150 ministry truck at 4 PM, the Auto Care Saturday Guys, had worked on or looked at over 40 cars. That is 10 more cars than we have ever seen on a given Saturday. Between the weather and the amount of work, we were done, tired, exhausted, beat. It would take a day of rest before we would begin to thank God for using us to serve so many.

Now we could spend the rest of the blog telling you how the team was better prepared than in past Summer Auto Cares Saturdays. Maybe we could bend your ear with the story of a woman when we asked to turn on her lights so we could make sure they worked made the following statement, "I do not know how to turn on my lights. I don't drive at night". Maybe in later blogs we will tell you some of those stories. But this blog is just to say thank you.

The day would have been impossible without the army of volunteers who gave their time, knowledge, and sweat labor to help over 30 single women care for their cars. Thanks to Jamette, Melissa, and Hye Sook, for keeping the administrative stuff in order. Thanks to Greg, Dale, the Anderson family, and Mike for inspecting every car and driving them safely onto and off the ramps. Thanks to Bryan, Tim, Nathan, Jesse, Jim, and Stefan, for working on each car, draining the oil, changing the filter, and pouring in the new oil. Thanks to Mary Ellen, Linda, and Carolyn for providing coffee (yes caffeine is its own food group), food and drinks for our volunteers.

Because organizations like Chapelgate Presbyterian Church, Christian Services of Howard County, and Napa Auto Parts of Ellicott City we had the needed materials to change the oil and air filters in over 35 cars, checked the fluids (over 13 gallons of washer fluid), tires, and lights on over 39 cars and collect over 43 gallons of used oil. These numbers help us objectively understand just how much we worked. They give us a sense of accomplishment. But the real reason we serve in this ministry can be found in the following situation.

One of our guest requested help with her brakes, unfortunately we could not address her issue, but directed her to one of the garages in our area. As we talked about getting her car serviced, she told us about how she is currently disconnected from church. How friends and family have disappointed her in the past. How she was scared to find out just how much work was needed on her car.

While, we cannot address all her concerns, we could and did share with her how Christ has and continues to meet our needs. How being part of a church community is one of the ways God provides support during the most difficult times in our lives. As with all life stories, it doesn't end here, and we are not sure if we will be part of the rest of her story. But we do know the Holy Spirit is at work in her life as He is always at work in ours.

If you are feeling disconnected or lost? If you would like to meet people who have been changed by the love of Jesus? Then check out the churches listed at the bottom of this blog entry. These churches are places filled with people looking forward to meeting you and to tell you about this Jesus that changed their lives forever.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys (and Girls)!

Chapelgate Presbyterian Church
Calvary Community Church
Liberty Presbyterian Church, PCA
Oak Ridge Comunity Church
Dayspring Presbyterian Church

Register Today....

2010-06-08T08:45:00.000-04:00

If you HAVE already registered by e-mail or phone, you should have received confirmation by e-mail or phone. If not, please contact us again. If you have NOT registered, do so today. We will STOP taking registrations tomorrow midnight.

Remember, if weather prevents us from holding the Summer Auto Care Saturday, we will send you an e-mail, post the information to this web page, and update our phone voice mail message.

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys

Registration for the Summer Auto Care Saturday ends in 8 days...

2010-06-01T09:57:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note reminding you that registration for the Summer Auto Care Saturday ends soon. We are going to be changing air filters so we need your auto information in order to serve you best. If you would like to bring your car or know a women who fits the criteria and in need of automotive help, please have them contact us soon.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys

Only 20 Days Left....

2010-05-20T20:46:00.002-04:00

In order for us to be prepared to serve you we need the following:

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

* 8:00 AM—9:30 AM
* 10:00 AM—11:30 AM
* 1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

* Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
* Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
* Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

* Name (First and Last)
* e-mail address
* Phone number

We will us this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299. The last day to register is June 9th.

If you have a friend who would benefit from this ministry, please forward this e-mail on to them or direct them to our blog/web page.

Register Today....

2010-05-12T21:23:00.000-04:00

The next Chapelgate Auto Care Saturday is June 12 from 8AM to 2:30 PM. In order for us to be prepared to serve you better we need the following:

The time you want to bring your car. Below please find your three choices:

8:00 AM—9:30 AM
10:00 AM—11:30 AM
1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be served in each time slot, so register today to make sure you get the time you need. These are also first come first serve so if you need to us to look at your car quickly, come early in your time slot.

The following information about your car

Make (Ford, Toyota, Honda etc...)
Model (Focus, Sienna, Accord etc...)
Year (1999, 2005, 2010 etc...)

We need this information to order the correct oil, oil filter, and air filter for your car.

Finally we need some contact information from you:

Name (First and Last)
e-mail address
Phone number

We will us this information to confirm your time, your car information, and contact you case we need to cancel Auto Care due to weather. You can contact us to register by e-mailing us at autocare@chapelgate.org or calling Chapelgate Presbyterian Church at (410) 442-7677 ext 299.

What is in your Glove Compartment?

2010-04-23T15:51:00.000-04:00

The other day I was pulled over by the my local law enforcement professionals for all things my driver side taillight was not working Another reason why we check your lights at every Auto Care Saturday. As the officer approached my window, I began to wonder if I had an up to date auto insurance card and current car registration information in my glove compartment. Suddenly, pictures of a crazy large fine and maybe the lose of my driving privilege popped into my mind. Thankfully, all the needed information (registration and drivers license) was in place and up to date.

So what belongs in the compartment designed to hold your driving gloves? You know the ones you use when you get out of the car and turn the crank on the front to get your model T started. Let me start by stating what is necessary:

Proof of insurance card - This is a card provided by your auto insurance company. The card should have your insurance number and a date showing your insurance is current.
Proof of registration card - This is the card that comes every time you register your car. It should match the dates on your rear licenses plates.
Proof of VIEP (Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program) - Proof your car passed your last emissions test

Spring is Here!

2010-03-24T17:17:00.000-04:00

You just missed the Spring Auto Care Saturday. Look for a report from the event later this month. Along with information about the Summer Auto Care Saturday to be held on June 12.

Enjoy the Spring!

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys!

Sign Up Today...

2010-03-08T09:20:00.000-05:00

The next Auto Care Saturday is March 20 only 11 days away. Auto Care is from 8:00 AM to 2:30 PM. Please call or e-mail autocare@chaplegate.org to select your time preferences. The time slots are:

8:00 AM—9:30 AM
10:00 AM—11:30 AM
1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be serviced in each time slot, so register today. Each time slot is first come first serve so arrive early. If we need to postpone Auto Care Saturday due to weather (rain, snow, etc), we will send a an e-mail if we have your e-mail address, post an announcement on this web/blog page and put a message at the church voice mail number (410) 442-7677 ext 299. Please check these locations before driving to Chapelgate on Saturday. The Last Day to register is March 17, so register today.

Snow, Snow, Snow, and Toyota

2010-02-10T16:55:00.000-05:00

The last week has been very eventful in our area. We have all expreieced record snow fall, some people have seen over 38 inches of snow. This is a historic event. If you have a picture of your car covered in snow or a picture of your new "snow garage"(the space once filled by your car), send it to autocare@chapelgate.org. We would like to post them to our blog page. Hopefully we will not see this kind of snow again!

The other major event is the recalls from Toyota. Over 1 million cars recalled to address acceleration and braking issues. At the 2009 Winter Auto Care Saturday, we worked on 9 Toyotas. That is 32% of all the cars we looked at in December. If you have questions about the recall, check the Toyota website for more information. If you have not been contacted by Toyota, give them a call. The closest Toyota dealers to Chapelgate are:

R & H Toyota - (410) 363-2000 - Owings Mills, MD 21117
Antwerpen's Toyota - (410) 531-5700 - Clarksville, MD 21029
Russell Toyota - (410) 788-8400 - Catonsville, MD 21228

Here is a complete list of effected cars (not sure of the year, call your dealer):

Avalon - 2005 to 2010
Camry - 2007 to 2010
Corolla - 2009 to 2010
Highlander 2008 to 2010
Matrix 2009 to 2010
Prius 2004 to 2010
RAV4 2009 to 2010
Sequoia 2008 to 2010
Tacoma 2005 to 2010
Tundra 2007 to 2010
VENZA 2009 to 2010

Remember the Spring Auto Care Saturday is March 20, from 8 AM to 2:30 PM. Registration begins on February 20. You can register by calling (410) 442-7677 ext 299 or e-mailing autocare@chapelgate.org.

We look forward to hearing from you after February 20.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys!

Happy New Year & The Auto Care Dates for 2010...

2010-01-20T21:59:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

We hope this post finds all of you enjoying the beginning of not only a new year but a new decade. At the start of any year, we make resolutions to change some part of our life for the better. Not sure about you, but just three weeks in and I am wondering what possessed me to make some of the resolutions on my list. Who thought just getting up 30 minutes earlier would be so hard to keep.

We hope one of your resolutions was to take better care of your car. It is the one thing you depend on to get to work, take the kids or grand kids to school, and run all those errands during the week and weekend. If that is your resolution, we can help. By participating in this ministry, you are taking a huge step in the care of your car in 2010. Below are the dates. Registration starts 30 days before the Auto Care Saturday event. We look forward to seeing in 2010.

Spring Auto Care Saturday - March 20
Summer Auto Care Saturday - June 12
Fall Auto Care Saturday - September 18
Winter Auto Care Saturday - December 11

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys

Some gifts come a little early...

2009-12-22T23:54:00.001-05:00

December is known for shopping, concerts, family, and gifts. As the Auto Care Guys put the ramps, tools, and supplies away for the last time this year, we have several things, gifts to be thankful for during this holiday season.

The gift of service - We had men and women come and serve from six different churches from three different denominations. These men and women served for over 10 hours. Getting up before sunrise, they worked long after the sun went down. Single mothers also provided food and drink to both the men serving and those being served.

The gift of generosity - We had suppliers that understand our mission and provided generously to it. The folks at Christian Services provided a truck to drive our supplies to the church and back again. They funded the purchase of the oil, filters, rotors, batteries, washer fluid, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and serpentine belts we used on Saturday. And Napa trusted us with enough inventory to service 28 cars.

The gift of Holy Spirit coordination - Saturday, we had father's teaching their sons about cars and service, we had medical doctors and mathematicians checking the air in tires, cleaning head lights, checking belts and hoses, and inspecting cars. We had engineers and mechanics, changing oil, collecting trash, loading trucks, and offering understandable advice.

The gift of good weather - Saturday was cold, but once the sun came out, it was pleasant. The work area was dry - no wind! A great winter day to workout side. If we had waited one week later, the parking lot would have been covered with snow. God once again providing just what we needed.

Finally, the gift of serving Christ - By changing the oil, your engine has a better chance to start on cold winter evenings. By checking and filling your washer fluid, you can clean off that salty mess kicked up by cars and trucks ahead of you. By checking your lights, you can be seen during the longer evenings. In serving you we followed in the tradition established by the wise men when they came to bring gifts to the new born King.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys!

Thanks for Saturday...

2009-12-17T09:50:00.000-05:00

Just a quick note to the organizations, businesses, churches, and volunteers. Thank you for the time, resources, and skills you brought to the last Auto Care of 2009. With your help we changed the oil and oil filter on 28 cars. Changed at least 2 headlights, cleaned the foggy plastic head light covers on several cars, changed at least one serpentine belt, a battery, two pairs of brake pads, and rotors. Quite the day. Below are a few stats from the day. More later!
Loving God by Loving Others,
Your Auto Care Saturday Guys

American

Dodge 4
Chevrolet 2
Ford 5
Chrysler 1

Imports

Honda 3
Mitsubishi 1
Toyota 9
Nissan 2
Mazda 1

Christmas Tree, Turkey, Cards,....

2009-11-20T16:22:00.000-05:00

The holiday season is upon us. As you begin to make preparations for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year, make sure you add "Auto Care Saturday" to your list. While it doesn't make you think holiday cheer like a "Christmas Tree" or laugh out loud fun like toasting in the "New Year"; it will help you be prepared for that first frosty morning of the winter, knowing your washer fluid is full to clear the windshield on the way to work or school. Its knowing your tires are at the correct air pressure to give you the best tracktion as you drive in the wintery mix. It is knowing your lights are working as you drive in the pre-dawn or post sunset darkness.

Take a moment and sign up for one of our three time slots via e-mail (autocare@chapelgate.org) or phone (410.442.7677 ext 299). Let us help you get ready for this Holiday Season.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys!

Time Slots:

8:00 AM to 9:30 AM
10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
1:00 PM to 2:30 PM

A Day Easy to Celebrate...

2009-09-23T21:32:00.000-04:00

He upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he bring to ruin. the Lord will reign forever, your God, O Zion, to all generations Praise the Lord! - Part of Psalm 146...

Saturday was one of the best days. The weather was great! Not Marriottsville great, but San Diego great. The sun was bright and the air was dry and cool. We had just the right number of volunteers all day. We had a steady stream of guests totaling 27 starting at 8 AM and ending at 3PM. It was the day we pray for every Auto Care. In mist of all that we celebrated a birthday, made a lawnmower house call and provided car pick-up service. Serving was a pleasure. Being part of the Lord upholding the widow was easy.

While we thank the guys at Napa for providing the parts, Christian Services of Howard County for supplying the support truck and the funds for the supplies, Chapelgate for providing the space, chairs, office supplies, tables, and trash cans. It is the Lord who get all the praise.

Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. Psalm 100...

Auto Care is Fast Apporaching....

2009-09-15T07:47:00.000-04:00

Today, your Auto Care Guys begin to ramp up with preparation for Saturday. Over the next few days we will be looking over the list of registered guest and review your auto information. We will contact volunteers to make sure they are ready for Saturday. We will inventory our supplies, and put together an order for whatever we might need. Finally, we will pray.

While it is the last item listed it is the most important action we will take before Saturday. It is the one thing we do that will help us see how the Holy Spirit will use us to share more than oil, filters, and good auto advice. It is how we continue to see this as part of God's work of bringing healing, renewal and peace to our community.

We are still looking for volunteers in several areas. Check out the window next to the blog. It spells out what we are looking for at this time. If you are single, divorced, separated, or widowed and have not signed up, there are still a few days to register. We would love to be part of how God shares His love for you.

Loving God by Loving Others,

Your Auto Care Guys

http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/

The Time is Now for an Auto Check

2009-08-26T03:28:00.002-04:00

The Time is Now for an Auto Check

For a Vehicle Checkup

Now is the ideal time to take care of important

preventive auto maintenance.

Most vehicles on the road today have high-tech engines which can be driven longer before tune-up services. Technology has not eliminated the need for preventive maintenance, however.

AAA recommends that motorists follow this car care checklist:

Radiator and coolant recovery tank - To protect your car's engine from oppressive summer heat, regularly check both the coolant level and the antifreeze/water mixture in the radiator. Visually check the coolant level when the engine is cool. If coolant is rust colored, flush the system.

Tires - Improper tire pressure causes premature wear and makes the car more difficult to handle. Keep a tire gauge in the glove compartment and regularly check pressure according to owner manual recommendations. Tires should be rotated every 15,000 miles to ensure even wear. Slippery winter weather and spring potholes are tough on front-end alignment as well. Uneven tire wear is a tell-tale sign of suspension problems.

Hoses - Check radiator and heater hoses for signs of deterioration and replace those that are cracked or leaking. A worn hose can burst anytime, especially during hot-weather driving. A new hose that costs $25 can save as much as $1,000 in repairs on an overheated engine.

Belts - Check the belts driving your alternator, air conditioner, water pump, air pump and power-steering. Loose belts reduce the efficiency of the devices they operate. Worn belts can fail unexpectedly and leave you stranded.

Battery - Check the battery to ensure it is held securely in place. Clean corroded connections. If your battery is not maintenance-free, be sure to check the water.

Oil - Change the oil every three months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first. Make sure the oil level is always in the safe zone on the dipstick. This basic and extremely important rule of auto maintenance helps prevent premature engine wear.

New School Year, New Season, New Oil....

2009-08-26T02:56:00.003-04:00

In most homes around the area Fall marks the beginning of the 2ND New Year. The holiday of summer is over and the faster paced routine of scheduled life is upon us. As you prepare to get the kids ready for the school year or just bracing yourself for a longer and heavier commute, remember your car is in need of preparation as well.

Clean oil will help reduce the ware of engine parts, increase gas mileage, and extend the life of your car. An oil change at this time will remove any dirt and grime captured in the oil and filter during the summer vacation time. Topping off your other fluids will is the best way to make sure your car is ready to take on the more strenuous driving season ahead. Check out the previous blog for other items you should check as the fall season starts. We are prepared to help you check most of these items, just sign up and stop by on September 19.

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys

Speaking without Words.....

2009-07-26T14:24:00.009-04:00

At the Summer Auto Care Saturday, the volunteers worked hard and the people we ministered to showed great patience. In our focus on doing a good job and care for the great number of cars, you might have missed just how the Holy Spirit used our deeds to share the gospel with a community in desperate need of that kind of love. Below please find such a note. I hope you find it as encouraging as I did.

Dear Auto Care Saturday Guys,

Your ministry has added to the seed of doubt that my son has regarding his decision to turn away from Christianity. Two years ago, after my now ex-husband was arrested, he decided to become a Buddhist...and he was serious. Last year he started to consider that maybe he was really agnostic (a move I felt was encouraging). There were many discussions between him and myself that ended with a truce, because he was so closed-minded and defiant about the "farce "of Christianity. He did not even like the idea that he had to go near my church and Christians to get his oil changed.

But lately he has softened a bit on his stance. When he asked me how much you got paid per car I told him that you were not being paid...you all volunteered your time to do this. He wanted to know why you would do this. This brought up the words "service" and"ministry"...vocabulary that has been off-limits for 2 years. He was impressed with this.

So thank you. He is passionate about 4 things now- his girlfriend, the computer, convincing me he does not believe in my faith anymore....and his CAR! Thank you for watering the seeds of faith in my son.

Auto Care Participant

In the Gospel according to Luke, the disciples on the road to Emmas, listed Christ's deeds before His words (Luke 24:19). What an honor for us to follow in His example.

The Auto Care Saturday Guys

Summer Auto Care Saturday 2009

2009-06-16T20:44:00.002-04:00

Let me set the stage, haggard ministry organizers. frantic last minute meetings, "short" conversations over the phone, and crazy hours in front of the computer. With to many cars, 26 known 32 actual, 13 of which needed to be seen before 10 AM, and not sure how many servant workers were committed to come. We were a little overwhelmed! Late Friday night getting the last part of the admin stuff together and attempting to pray about everything and be thankful, you know that Philippians 4:6-7 thing. But really still working to get as much done no matter the cost. Finally hit the rack at 11:30 PM for a 5 AM wake up call.

Saturday, the Holy Spirit provided and allowed us to see it and now bear witness to it. There was an army, OK a small squad of volunteers ready to help set-up tents, tables, chairs, and oil changing stations. God even provided a person to help get the paper work together. Then it was off to the Napa for the supplies.

We got there early, 7:45 AM shop opens at 8 AM. Some of the Napa contacts had changed. Howard, the previous manager, moved to Westminster and we were not sure if the new guy, Ken, would extend the same courtesy to this ministry. What courtesy is that? We get to bring supplies to the church and return what we do not use. That might not be surprising if we did it just once. But we make this exchange at least 5 to 6 times in the course of 7 hours. On one of our trips, Ken made the comment, "When I heard what your church was doing, I had to call my wife." Once again, the Holy Spirit showing me our service to others is being used to share the light of the gospel in a dark world.

By lunch (12:50 PM), we had served over 26 cars. Changing oil, oil filters, air filters, and checking fluids on at least 24 of them, replacing brake pads, rotors, and even checking an alternator on another. After a meal of the Best Fried Chicken in the World, from the Forest Dinner. We went back at it and cared for another 6 cars before closing at 3:00 PM.

There is more to report, but I will save it for future blogs. Right now, let me just share with you some of the numbers.

Total Cars Served: 32
- 26 Cars we have serviced in the past
- 6 Cars were new to us
- 10 people are Chapelgate Members
- 13 people attend Rebuilders
- 6 from other places

The servants came from: Chapelgate Presbyterian, Oak Ridge Community Church, Calvary Community Church, City of Hope Presbyterian and the Rebuilders at Chapelgate

--
Your Auto Care Guys!

chapelgateautocare@gmail.com

Our Blog Page: http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/

Time is running out....

2009-06-08T21:53:00.002-04:00

Auto Care Saturday is only a few days away. If you have not signed up please do so right away. Follow the instructions found on this blog page.

Auto Care Saturday is Just a Few Days Away!

2009-06-03T17:06:00.001-04:00

Fellow Drivers of Cars,

I think that includes everyone. The summer Auto Care Saturday is just a few days away. If you have not have not signed up for a slot (listed below), please e-mail us or call (410) 442-5800 ext 299 with the time you would like to have us look at your car. If you are helping us serve on the June 13, please contact us so we can have enough supplies and food to support everyone. Check out the survey on our blog page and vote for your favorite fried chicken, it could have an impact on what we feed the Auto Care Guys on Saturday. Looking forward to hearing and or seeing you on Saturday.

The time slots are:
· 8 AM—9:30 AM
· 10 AM—11:30 AM
· 1 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be serviced in each time slot, so register early. Each time slot is first come first serve so arrive early

In case of bad weather (rain, snow, etc), please look for an e-mail, check this web/blog page autocaresaturday.blogspot.com, or call the church (410) 442-5800 ext 299

Register on today by calling (410) 442-5800 ext 299 or e-mail chapelgateautocare@gmail.com Last Day to register is June 10

--
Your Auto Care Guys!

chapelgateautocare@gmail.com

Only a Month Away.....

2009-05-13T10:38:00.005-04:00

Just a quick note reminding everyone that the next Auto Care Saturday is exactly 30 days from today. Information about Auto Care Saturday can be found on our blog page and below. Please contact us for a time slot or volunteer opportunities. Look for more information as the date draws closer.

Your Auto Care Guys!

The Next Auto Care Saturday is June 13 from 8AM to 2:30 PM. Please call to select your time preferences.

The time slots are:
· 8 AM—9:30 AM
· 10 AM—11:30 AM
· 1 PM—2:30 PM

Only so many cars can be serviced in each time slot, so register early. Each time slot is first come first serve so arrive early

In case of bad weather (rain, snow, etc), please look for an e-mail, check this web/blog page autocaresaturday.blogspot.com, or call the church (410) 442-5800 ext 299

You can begin to register on today by calling (410) 442-5800 ext 299 or e-mail chapelgateautocare@gmail.com Last Day to register is June 10

How Long Will Your Car Last?

2009-04-21T20:21:00.003-04:00

Hey ACS Fans,

One of the Auto Care Saturday Guys (Norm) found this article on the web. While we are not sure how long anyone car will last, the article does encourage every owner to check fluids at least every 3 months, check your tire air pressure, take your time while driving, and keep up on regular auto maintenance. All steps we encourage and try to follow as well. How many miles are on your car? Maybe someone from our ministry will be a member of the million mile club?

On a more local note, Howard, one of the guys at our Ellicott City Napa Auto Parts Store, worked his last day on Sunday April 20. Most of you have not met Howard, but all of you have benefited from his generosity and willingness to make sure you got the right parts at "Auto Care Saturday". Howard, thank you for over 9 years of Auto Care Saturday support. We will miss you.

The Auto Care Saturday Guys

http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/Cars-That-Last-A-Million-Miles/

April is National Car Care Month

2009-04-08T14:28:00.003-04:00

Who knew it was "National Car Care Month"! Click on the link below to read an article confirming April as the month (I wonder why Hallmark doesn't sell any special cards for the month?). The folks at the Howard County Library agree and have a display of automotive books in the lobby. While we do not have an Auto Care in April, it is a great time to remind you to bring your car to our next Auto Care Saturday. Sign up starts May 13 for the Auto Care Saturday on 13 June. See you then!

Still looking for your opinion on the best Fried Chicken. Take a moment and check out the survey.

Happy Car Care Month!

Your Auto Care Guys

April is National Car Care Month

Spring & Spring Cleaning....

2009-03-24T10:47:00.003-04:00

It is offically Spring! No more snow days, no more salt and chemcial residue to coat the outside of the car. It is time to enjoy the outdoors once again! Cabin fever is a think of the past!

This is also the time of year folks get their house in order, clean up the yard, and maybe even clean out the car. I know I am looking into doing just that, well at least the car part.

There are so many things in my car that just did not make it into my home or the recycleing bin, or the trash can. Lets start with those things that do not make it into the house, items like shoes, notes, books, dvds, cd, toys, coats, etc. Then there are those things that just need to be recycled items like empty water bottles, paper, more empty beverage containers. Finally items that just need to be tossed out, old receipts, gum wrappers, coffee cups etc. What is the most unusual item you need to remove from your car? What is the most unusal item you keep in your car. Me, I keep a bocci ball set and a fire place poker. Ask at the next Auto Care Saturday.

I heard the best way to keep your car from getting old car smell is to clean out the numerous cup holders, whip down the interior, and vacuum out the floor and seats. Apparently most of our car smells come from dried food or sugary beverages spilled in our cars. Keep these areas clean, you have a better chance of of keeping your smelling wonderful.

Then there are somethings you need to make sure are in your car. Items like: Emergency contact numbers - the first name and phone numbers just in case your cell phone stops working, a waterproof flash light with extra batteries, jumper cables, multipurpose tool, a blanket, flares or reflective triangles, and a first aid kit.

If you have questions concerning our list, or have other suggestions, please e-mail us, we love getting feed back or just comment.

Your Auto Care Guys!

Great Weather and the Best Fried Chicken in the World….

2009-03-10T16:24:00.003-04:00

The first Auto Care Saturday for 2009 went extremely well. The weather was warm (between 60 & 70) degrees, we had a good number of volunteers come out, and we were blessed with few auto issues we could not address.

Here are the numbers:

10 Volunteers worked from 8 AM to 3 PM on 24 cars. That works out to be around 4 cars an hour. Our team was working. Because this is a ministry supported by donations, often we do not cover the cost of supplies and depend on the support of Christian Services of Howard County and Chapelgate Presbyterian Church to make up the difference. This Saturday, the donations covered our expenses for the first time in 5 plus years! This auto care had reminder stickers to place on the windshields created by Melissa (thank you Melissa!) so everyone getting their oil changed today knows when to visit us again (that would be June 13).

Just like an old time Church Social…

For lunch we had Fried Chicken from a local restaurant. That sparked the debate over where you can get the best Fried Chicken. We did not come to any conclusion so we would like your input. Below please find a survey of some local establishments selling fried chicken. Tell us which one you think is best.

Failed to be in awe…

At the winter Auto Care Saturday, we experienced cold, enough cold to freeze the drinking water provide our volunteers. Today the Lord provided wonderful weather, energetic volunteers, and all the supplies we needed. Often, when things go as planned we fail to be in wonder of how Holy Spirit worked it out. Father, thank you for the cold and the times when few showed up to help, so we can praise You all the more for the warmth of weather and the spirit of those who volunteered.

Check our blog or Face Book Page for our next Auto Care Saturday event. As you check out the pictures, you will realize we need an event photographer. If you are interested and have an eye for pictures, please contact us.

See you next time,

Greg, Tim, Bryan, Mary, Melissa, Dale, Lloyd, Fred, Jesse, and Dwayne

Your Auto Care Saturday Guys

chapelgateautocare@gmail.com

Great Weather Forcast for Tomorrow....

2009-03-06T16:09:00.004-05:00

What an amazing week weather wise. Monday & Tuesday schools were closed due to snow. I was getting concerned for the weekend. Then today and tomorrow the temperature should be well above 50 degrees. What a difference a day makes. Tomorrow, the Auto Care Guys would like to get a picture of you and your car. So come prepared to be photographed. It will help us begin to put cars with each name. See you in a few hours.

The Auto Care Guys!

chapelgateautocare@gmail.com

Our Blog Page: http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/

Broke Down....What Now?

2009-02-14T23:08:00.001-05:00

Hey Auto Care People,

Last week I received a call from one of our Auto Care folks asking for some advice concerning Emergency Road Side assistance. Her car had broken down in Washington DC and needed to be towed back to Ellicott City, MD for repairs. She had just spent $150.00 out of pocket just to get her car to a repair shop in Ellicott City. But some of the other issues, like who do you call when your car is broken down? How do I find a local tow company? The information below is based upon some web research and personal preferences. If you have questions or comments please do so in the space provided or talk to one of the Auto Care Guys at the next Auto Care Saturday 7 March.

As the person responsible for the car, you should have a plan to deal with the need for emergency road side assistance.

What is emergency road side assistance?
It is any service you need when you cannot move your car. This can happen in your drive way or parking lot as well as while driving to pick the kids up at school or on the way to work or on a trip to visit friends out of state.

What should you be looking for from a emergency road side assistance provider?
- Towing - to a recognized repair shop or a repair shop of your choosing
- Battery Jump - help getting your car started
- Emergency Fuel - gas to place in an empty tank to get you to the next gas station
- Gain entrance to Car - help getting into your car without your keys.

Who provides these kinds of services?
There are the traditional motor clubs like AAA or All State Motor Club. They will provide the services listed above for an annual membership fee.
- Your Auto Insurance Provider - some insurance companies will provide these services for an additional cost
- Car Companies - will provide some help in this area when you purchase a new or certified used car and it is still under warranty.
- Others - some other associations like SAM's club offers emergency road side assistance, cell phone companies and credit card companies are also beginning to offer these kind of services.

What is the cost?
- Most motor clubs I checked out charge an annual fee from $50 to $90 dollars a year. This is one of those instances where you do get what you pay for. The more you spend the more services they will provide.
- The insurance companies I checked out charge between $5 to $10 every six months.
- Car Companies like GM's On Star cost about $100 to $200 dollars a year - If you own a luxury car most of these services are covered.
- Others - to many variables to list here.

What do we suggest?
- Check with your auto insurance provider first. You might already be covered.
- Take into consideration the age of your car, older cars tend to have more problems. If your car is more than 5 years old, this kind of service should be part of your auto budget.
- Does the emergency roadside assistance cover your car or does it cover you. In other words, if you are driving or riding in another car, does your emergency road service help you if that car needs service.
- Have a plan - If you do not have emergency roadside service look into it.
- If you have emergency roadside service, keep the number in your cell phone
- Have some basic supplies in your car in case of an emergency-basic supplies will be listed in our next blog
- Keep a copy of important phone numbers in your wallet, in case you do not have your cell phone or the phone runs out of power
- Keep up on top of regular auto maintenance - just bringing your car to Auto Care Saturday will help with you in this area.

I hope this information has been useful. If you have any questions or comments please e-mail us and we will get back to you. Do not forget to sign-up for the next Auto Care Saturday on 7 March.

Loving God by Loving Others,

The Auto Care Saturday Guys

chapelgateautocare@gmail.com

http://autocaresaturday.blogspot.com/2009_02_01_archive.html

January is gone....

2009-02-03T17:37:00.004-05:00

Hey,

I just wanted to post a quick note on our blog page. As you can tell from our count down clock, the next Auto Care Saturday is less than a month away. This is our annual spring auto care. Now for most of you, this is a regular auto care. You send an e-mail to us or call the church and request your time. But from some of us, this is the time we place and receive our synthetic oil order. If you are part of this program, look for an e-mail from us in the next two weeks. If you do not receive and e-mail from us, then we do not have record of you being part of the program.

Synthetic Oil you ask. What is it and should I have it?

What is it...Synthetic oil is a man made oil that is engineered to last longer and lubricate the moving parts of your engine better than organic oil. Most of the newer cars (2000 and up) use this oil. Because synthetic oil lasts longer it doesn't have to be changed as often. Because it does a better job lubricating the engine, it helps the engine last longer and often improves your gas mileage.

Should I have it?

Yes and no. If you have an older car and you currently do not have engine issues, then I would not change to the synthetic oil. Just keep bring your car in for our quarterly oil changes. If you have a newer car (2000 - 2009), then I would consider making the change for the reasons listed above.

How will that impact my attending Auto Care Saturday?

First, if you want synthetic oil in your car, then you will need to pay for the oil and filter up front. Last year the average cost was 65 dollars. That includes your oil and filter for the entire year.

Second, you will only need to come to Auto Care Saturday twice a year. The Spring and Fall Auto Care Saturday's

What if I decide not to do synthetic?

Continue to come 4 times a year. You will be asked to make a donation but none is required.

If you have more questions about synthetic or organic oil, please e-mail the Auto Care Saturday Guys, we will get back to you. Those of you already signed up for our synthetic program. Look for an e-mail from us asking if you are interested in participating this year and what your cost will be. We are asking for payment at time of order this year.

Hope to hear from all of you soon,

The Auto Care Saturday Guys

Winter Auto Care Saturday - 2008

2008-12-19T12:44:00.005-05:00

Brrrrr! describes up what the weather was like on Saturday. Even with the cold, we were very happy that it did not snow or rain during the time we were out in the weather. That day we worked on 21 cars addressing issues from the regular oil change to bulb replacement. The day started at 6 am (dark outside) to 6 pm (dark outside). On a side note, I wish more auto manufactures would provide easy access to replace these important communication tools.

But as with most Auto Care Saturday's the story begins before Saturday. On Wednesday Greg, Mary, and I sat down to plan out the weekend. At that meeting, we had about 17 women signed up, it looked like only 3 guys to help change the oil, and no one to bring lunch. As you can imagine, the lack of lunch was the greatest concern.

By Friday, the count had blossomed to 22 cars, 5 guys, and still no lunch. NAPA, our auto part supplier, would not have our order ready until Saturday morning. Oh, we were struggling to get a truck to move the supplies. By that evening, God had supplied a truck. Thank you Chapelgate for providing a truck!.

Saturday morning arrived and all 5 guys showed. Between Mary & Robin, all the paperwork was ready to go. Greg, Bryan, Norm, and Dale, got the work stations ready. By the time we began to work on the first set of cars, the supplies were picked up from NAPA and little delay was experienced by the women we were serving. Still no lunch.

As the day wore on Holly, one of our former clients and a good friend, arrived just to say hi and get us up to date on the goings on in her life. When Holly found out we did not have any plans for lunch, she quick stepped into the gap. What a wonderful blessing. But the blessings did not end there, the Holy Spirit provided breakfast in the form of Mary and hot chocolate in the form of the Conley's.

Just as the sunset and the temperature began to drop, the used oil was properly disposed of at the recycle center at Howard Co Landfill. The truck returned to the church and the few of us who remained gathered to share dinner together. What a wonderful day of loving God by loving others.

The Auto Care Guys

Photos from Saturday

The Synthetic Auto Care Saturday Has Been Moved....

2008-10-21T12:31:00.007-04:00

Hey,

Just wanted to remind everyone that we have moved the fall Synthetic Auto Care Saturday to the Winter Auto Care Date or December 13. The tentative dates for 2009 are now on the calendar. They are listed below. Please mark you calendar early.

March 7 2009 - Organic Only
June 13 2009 - Both Synthetic and Organic Oil Changes
September 19 2009 - Organic Only
December 12 2009 - Both Synthetic and Organic Oil Changes

Here are some more pictures from the last Auto Care Saturday

The Auto Care Saturday Guys

Fall Auto Care Saturday September 20, 2008

2008-10-04T09:59:00.001-04:00

The Fall Auto Care Saturday saw 22 women take advantage of the ministry on September 20 in the lower church parking lot. The event was marked by so many things. First, with the help of Christian Services, we were able to gather the needed supplies by Friday. So the Auto Care Guys and Gals were ready to take care of the first car at 8 AM on Saturday. Next, we began to implement several of Mary's suggestions in improving the flow of the day. We had a folder for paper work, a sign-up sheet, a person responsible for information gathering, and a designated place “the grassy knoll” for the women to wait for their car. Next, Pam provided a wonderful lunch with enough to feed both the workers and several of the women waiting for their cars to be completed. We had a certified mechanic, Dave, on site to help with several more complicated auto issues. Just in case you forgot, that is a direct answer to prayer. We had a younger man join the group and get his hands dirty another answer to prayer. Finally, we had some of the best weather! When you work outside, that is one of those things you take for granted until the weather is not good.

Once again thank to Christian Services and Napa of Ellicott City for helping us offer this kind of help.

Below please find those offering the help
• Greg
• Bryan
• Dale
• Norm
• Fred
• Pam
• Mary
• Aaron
• Dave

I talked with one of the women after Saturday and she told me the following story.

At this Auto Care Saturday, all the ladies sat together as they waited for their car. It was a wonderful time to talk. In those conversations I got to hear some of the very difficult situations these women are struggling to endure. One women was looking for housing so she could take her kids to a Christian conference about dealing with divorce. Dwayne, we all stopped right then and prayed for her and her request, and do you know the next phone call she made was an answer to that request. God is at work in right now.

That is just one of the many ways God opened our eyes to his working in our mist. Greg received the following thank you note from a participate at Auto Care Saturday

"Thanks can't express the way everyone at the Auto Care Sat. morning touched my heart and soul. Thanks for giving so freely and without judgment. I was truly touched! Thanks again for everything, Debra 'Trailblazer', no headlights, remember?"

Auto Care Saturday...

2008-08-08T10:27:00.000-04:00

The Auto Care Saturday Ministry is focused on helping single women (widows, divorced, separated, and never married) take care of their automobiles. We do this by providing general maintenance four Saturdays a year from 8 AM to 3 PM. Because these Saturdays happen every three months, this crew of amateur garage monkeys have worked in miserable Maryland humidity and mind numbing cold, making for some long days.

Auto Care Saturday started when two men in our ministry to those going through separation and divorce, got tired of hearing stories from women being taken advantage by automobile repair shops. After prayer and conversations with the church staff, they came up with the idea of providing general maintenance; changing oil and oil filter and checking fluids, belts, hoses, tires, and lights for these women.

At the last Auto Care Saturday, our crew worked on over 25 cars. The team was composed of people from four churches; some had a PhD, and some a high school diploma. Some serve because they have worked on cars their whole life. Some serve because they know the need is great. All serve because this is how Christ is using them to bring Healing, Renewal, and Peace to this community.

For more information on how to serve in this ministry, contact

Caring Ministry (410) 442-5800 or Chapelgateautocare@gmail.com