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BREAKING NEWS - GM
RESCINDS DECISION
GARBER BUICK KEEPING 'BUICK' NAMEPLATE
Richard Garber, President
of Garber Buick, has met with representatives from General
Motors in continuing conversations on the appeal Garber
Buick submitted last week following the receipt of a
wind–down agreement from GM on June 2nd.
Dick Garber comments that “General Motors
is respectful of the outstanding job Garber Buick has
done in the past 100 years and of our history and legacy.
General Motors did listen to the overwhelming support
shown by our customers, business leaders, and community
citizens as well as our leaders in local, state and
national government and have rescinded their decision
to cut ties with our dealership. We are very, very excited
about this news.”
GM is offering a conditional agreement
to work with their channel strategy and Garber Buick
is committed to General Motors goals and channel strategy
in the Saginaw market.
Special thanks to all who wrote letters
or submitted comments online in support of keeping Garber
Buick in Saginaw. Over 1200 letters and emails were
collected and personally presented to General Motors
last week Tuesday, and it absolutely made the difference.
ABC12
News Story |
WNEM
News Story |
WEYI
News Story |
MLIVE
News Story
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Wednesday, June 10th,
2009
Thank you for the overwhelming support you have
shown Garber Buick, myself and my family. I am
humbled by the very kind words we have received
from our customers, friends and business associates.
You have my heartfelt thanks and gratitude.
On Tuesday, June 9th I personally delivered over
1200 letters and emails to General Motors Headquarters
in Detroit to show the unique relationship Garber
Buick is privileged to share with its customers
and community. It is our hope that in view of
the community's outpouring of support for our
dealership that General Motors will rescind their
decision. We will certainly let you know as soon
as possible the outcome of our appeal and future
direction for Garber Buick.
Again, please accept my deepest gratitude and
appreciation for your overwhelming support."
Richard
J. Garber
President & Owner
Garber Management Group
Thursday, June 4th, 2009
To our Garber Family of Customers, Employees
and the Greater Saginaw Community:
GM's recent announcement concerning Garber Buick
in Saginaw has raised many questions and concerns.
I'm glad to have this opportunity to personally
tell you Our Commitment to Our Customers, Our
Staff and Our Community is Top Priority. We've
been building relationships in Saginaw since 1907
and all of our efforts are focused on protecting
and maintaining these relationships. We are proud
of our century-long history of providing World-Class
Customer Service and that is not going to change.
First and foremost, Garber Buick is open for
business.
It is Business As Usual at Garber Buick. Our Buick
franchise agreement is in force through October
2010 and we are here to continue to provide quality
vehicles, both new and used, and to provide the
award-winning service you've come to expect from
Garber. We are honoring all our warranties and
our service department is here to provide care
and maintenance for all of your vehicles. You
can rely on the World-Class Customer Service you
have come to expect from Garber.
Garber has every intention of keeping the
State Street location open for many, many years
to come. For over 100 years we have been dedicated
to serving the people of Mid-Michigan, and Saginaw
County in particular, and we are resolute in continuing
this tradition. We are going to do everything
possible to encourage GM to review our situation
and hopefully reverse their decision. It is our
desire to continue to represent GM products, and
specifically Buick, for years to come. If that
opportunity does not exist we will review all
options but commit to be here to serve you, our
customers and our community, while protecting
the jobs of our dedicated Garber Family of employees.
The GM announcement does not in any way affect
our Garber Chevrolet location in Midland, our
Garber Nissan-Hyundai location in Saginaw or any
of our locations in Chicago and Florida.
I want to personally thank you for your support
and patronage of our dealerships. We are blessed
to have the opportunity to continue to serve you.
We value the relationships we've developed over
the past one hundred years and we're looking forward
to the next one hundred.
Richard
J. Garber
President & Owner
Garber Management Group
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1151 Comments as of 08/01/2010 03:17:08
Mike Stoll
2009/07/15 10:30:49
Dear Fritz,
I was a competing General Sales Manager in the Saginaw market against Dick Garber and Garber Buick from January 1981 until March 1995. I joined the Garber organization to assist with the opening of Sunrise Chevrolet in Glendale Heights, Illinois as the General Manager.
The Garber organization is the model organization to compete against, work for and learn the importance of associate development, financial responsibility and customer focus. I left the Garber organization in December 1998 to move back to the Michigan market with no differences of understanding.
The knowledge I gained under the direction of Dick Garber and his Senior Leadership team to run an automobile dealership operation with the customers/ associates as the center of focus drives me today as a Director, North American Operations and Implementation for one of the countries largest DMS vendors.
Dick Garber's Buick dealership delivers what most dealership groups aspire to model, delivers to the highest of expectations for customer sales/ services while managing to a respectable profit margin in all departments.
Garber Buick is the elite of the elite in development for aspiring GM Executive Managers.
Loosing Dick Garber's Buick flagship is not an option.
Respectfully submitted,
Mike Stoll
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Marc and Berni Bingham
2009/06/19 14:49:47
What a wonderful community we live in!! THANK YOU SAGINAW for rallying around such a worthy cause with so much support. Thank you Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Saginaw Future for spearheading the write in campaign. Thank you Congressman Dale Kildee for getting involved. Thank you media for your positive support. Thank you, Garber's for being the type of business and community citizen that so many were willing to support. And thank you GM for being willing to listen to Saginaw, take another look at and recind your original decision. We can all be humbly grateful and proud to be part of the great community that is the Great Lakes Bay Region.
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Paul Cavenaugh
2009/06/18 09:59:18
Congratulations.
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Cassandra C Carvajal
2009/06/13 17:26:26
Dear Mr.Mark Laneve
I am writing this letter in support of Garber Buick of Saginaw,I have been an employee with the Garber family for almost 7 years. I have always been proud to work for such a company that cares for their employees. I just can't believe the news and the decision to close the Buick dealership. I imagined that a company like this would value how they came to be such a success. I wouldn't think it be possible to close a historical Landmark. How can this decision go through without any morals, or how it would effect the community and to all people who believe that this is the foundation of success. I may not know alot about business but I know that to close such a place that brings and knows ( Values, Work Ethic, Respect, Honesty, Integrity, Pride, Empathy ) is a mistake and a big loss not just our future and present customers,fellow employees and the community, BUT! A big loss for your orginization for the FUTURE. How can one destroy the possibilities to grow and succeed, I guess common sense comes in to play when you really look at things. Please Make the right decision and keep what makes GM >>>> "To be the BEST automotive sales and repair operation in every market we serve."
Thanks for the oppurtunity to share my thoughts.
Cassandra C Carvajal
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Don Hemstreet
2009/06/11 10:22:24
To be in business this long must mean they are doing something right. How does GM expect to sell their products if they are closing dealerships. Does these dealers cost GM any money to be operating and selling their products ? The cuts need to be made at the top and also do away with paying board members. I would consider it an honor just to be a board member without receiving any pay.
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Dan and Theresa Kurtz
2009/06/10 14:44:47
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Dear Mr. Mark LaNeve,
Last week General Motors made the very hard decision to file for bankruptcy after fighting very hard to stay out of bankruptcy. All the decision leading up to this final decision will probably never surface in full detail to the average American. I am very sympathetic to your position and to General Motors. Our country has been confused for years about the quality of the General Motors product mainly from the one side view or opinion of our media.
The reason I decided to write this letter during this time when you have a lot on your plate is more of a personal matter. Part of your commitment to the federal government in GM’s restructuring was the highly publicized closing of GM Dealerships. What we know of your decision to close these dealerships had specific criteria. The dealership closings were highly concentrated in metro markets where there is just too many and the market share is down and the survival for each dealership was in major risk. The other criteria was based on sales effectiveness, customer satisfaction, facility condition or GM updated look, cash in bank to survive these tough times and community involvement and support.
This comes to the point at hand. Last Tuesday General Motors sent out a new letter informing the fate of all the GM Dealerships based on the criteria I mention above. You need to correct or stop a letter you sent to Garber Buick Saginaw Michigan ASAP. With all my heart I know this had to be an oversight with everything going on during these challenging times. Please go back and review the history of Garber Buick. This is the core foundation of GM and Buick and as we all now with no foundation there will be NO FUTURE! This is the first Buick Store in the country in business for over, 100 years. In addition to that it hits the highest marks of all your criteria. In fact looking at the criteria Garber Buick this should be your new model for all remaining dealerships in the New GM. Garber Buick is one of GM most profitable, highest volume stores in the country even during these economic times and needs to be modeled after and become a road map to the dealerships that have not figured out this game plan.
Garber Buick has always been the model for any American Company’s with its philosophy of business and community. Here are Garber’s Mission Statement, Vision Statement and Company Values.
MISSION STATEMENT
"We're only doing our jobs when we create an experience for the customers for which they choose to return and do business with us again."
VISION STATEMENT
"To be the BEST automotive sales and repair operation in every market we serve."
COMPANY VALUES
Honesty: Truthful at all times
Respect: To show consideration and honor for each other.
Empathy: To be able to understand another's position.
Integrity: To be of good sound moral principle, trustworthy, sincere.
Pride: Sense of self-worth. Making a difference in people's lives.
Work Ethic: Working as a team to meet or exceed expectations
In closing let me tell you a little bit about myself and family. My name is Dan Kurtz and my wife’s name is Theresa Kurtz. We have just celebrated our 33rd wedding anniversary on May 8th of this year and we have 3 children and one grandchild with one more on the way. My father was in the construction business for 28 years and in the early 1980’s during a very similar economic time he sold the business. He was a great man with great values to his business, customers and employees. In 1985 I entered into the automobile business and have been in it ever since. I have searched in our industry for business man very similar to my father and his values. Seven years ago I meet that man his name is Richard J Garber. I became a partner with Mr. Garber at Sunrise Chevrolet in Glendale Heights in the western suburbs of Chicago. I have served on many advisor boards with Chevrolet for future product that is in our showroom today. I have kept the promise to serve my community in the same model that Mr. Garber has served the communities of everyone of his dealerships. I have grown so much as a business man and a community leader thanks to the vision Mr. Garber has given me. I am very close to what is going on across this country in our industry and I know that the letter to Mr. Garber about his Flagship Buick Store in Saginaw Michigan is a MAJOR MISTAKE and was never intended to go out. So I am pleading with to reverse this horrible mistake ASAP.
Thank You for all your consideration in this matter.
Dan and Theresa Kurtz
Inverness, Illinois
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Joseph Zigray
2009/06/10 13:14:27
I have bought several GM cars and trucks. I bought my first new Buick (Enclave) last year. I must tell you that of all the dealerships that I have dealt with, Garber Buick of Saginaw, is the best. Best in salesmanship, Best in service. Those guys and gals do an excellent job. I find it hard to believe that you folks at GM would close a dealership that has such an excellent reputation. Please reconsider your decision. This is NOT a good one if you close this one. If you want to sell Buicks in this area, you have to keep this one open. Sincerely, Joseph Zigray
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Waheed Akbar, M.d.
2009/06/10 11:38:07
June 9, 2009
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
100 Renaissance Center
Detroit, MI 48265
Dear Mr. LaNeve:
I am writing this letter in support of Garber Buick of Saginaw, and perhaps encourage you to reconsider the termination letter sent to them. Garber Buick has been a Saginaw icon for 102 years. They are very much a part of this community, and unlike most dealerships, go out of their way to provide excellent service. In my mind, and the minds of the people of Saginaw County, the service they give is unparalled. Their sales and service departments have gone out of their way to keep their customers happy.
The third generation of the Garber Buick family is represented by Dick Garber. Mr. Garber personally, again like the rest of his organization, goes out of his way to keep customers happy. His organization is very much an integral part of this community. Buick has become the most popular brand of automobile in this area. I’m sure your sales statistics show that Garber Buick has become a national leader for this very reason.
I would encourage GM to reconsider their decision, and keep this dealership open. I respectfully think a mistake is being made. Saginaw County would like to protect its history and heritage with General Motors and ask them to reconsider this decision. It will benefit General Motors, Garber Buick, and the Great Lakes Region.
Sincerely,
Waheed Akbar, M.D.
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J. Ayres
2009/06/10 09:57:31
Dear BUICK Motor Division and GM, the TRI CITY area has an idea.
Make a good decision for once APPOINT DICK GARBER of Garber Buick in Saginaw, the new President of BUICK. Better yet, if you were REALLY wise...GM. You might learn something from him, and create a successful model for everyone to follow.
You might make CHANGE mean something positive and good.
The only problem you will have is that Saginaw would plead with him NOT to do it. No community would EVER give up a man like Dick.
Wherever Dick Garber goes, SAGINAW COUNTY GOES.
Respectfully,
J. Ayres
Saginaw
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Jack Provenzano
2009/06/10 09:07:36
Dear Mr. LaNeve,
Over the last 25 years I have had the privilege of being able to call Dick Garber a good and trusted friend. Dick and his family have done much for Saginaw and those of us who live here. The Garber Buick Dealership has always been a first class operation, with its customers always being treated fairly. For the life of me I will never understand why General Motors and Buick would decide to close this store. If General Motors had more dealerships like Garber Buick the problems it now faces would be much less. On behalf of my family and our community I to would also ask that you reconsider your decision.
Thank You,
Jack Provenzano
Vice President, Citizens Bank
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Thomas and Donna (Van Houtum) Rudy
2009/06/09 22:34:07
We have known the Garber family for many years. Our parents bought cars from Dick's father. The Saginaw area would loose a landmark company by closing the Buick dealership.
Michigan needs families who give back to the community.
I have known Dick for many years and have considered him an exemplary person and business man. Sincerely, Donna (VanHoutum) and Thomas Rudy
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Donna
2009/06/09 22:18:05
They must be crazy to take away a dealership that has had top sales and service in the United States. I have a Buick and have been a satisfied customer along with many of my friends in the Saginaw area. I have been looking forward to purchasing another new car from them in the near future. I am totally shocked by this outrageous development. This is very unfair and has no basis for this depressing situation. I truly hope this decision can be reversed for the welfare of our community.
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Mike Giese
2009/06/09 21:53:38
Even though we live in Chicago, this dealership has been a huge part of the lives of both my wife and me through the effect it had on my father-in-law (Tom Krzyzaniak). Tom sincerely appreciated everything about working for many years for Garber Buick in Saginaw. He was extremely proud of this reputable dealership, its hardworking and honest employees, the wonderful Garber family owners and a true class-act as a businessman in Mr. Garber. In many ways, Garber Buick in Saginaw is an essential part of our family and will always be treasured.
I took the time to read and enjoy many of these posted comments. I truly am moved by the postive thoughts that are being expressed on behalf of Mr. Garber, his family and this dealership.
I just want to say -- way to go Saginaw community, as even those of us from Chicago are proud of all of you !
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Caron Teenier
2009/06/09 14:24:06
I am having a difficult time understanding how an auto manufacturer, regardless of the financial situation, would close down a dealership that is so successful and has proven itself trustworthy over so many years. It seems to me that an auto manufacturer, especially one in dire financial straits, would need successful dealerships to sell its product. It goes farther than being just about a dealership - it is about a community that has benefitted greatly from the employment opportunities as well as the benevolence and community development it has provided over the many decades of its existence.
As a taxpayer and therefore shareholder in your company, as well as a member of a community which will be greatly effected for the worse, I would like to know the criteria by which the decisions are being made as to which dealerships are closed down and which are not. Thank you.
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Dan Troy
2009/06/09 12:14:18
Mr. LaNeve, let me first say that I do not envy yours or any GM employees position on closing dealerships.we all know that it is a difficult decision that must be made.
I have been in the car business for thirty years, I have only sold domestic cars, and I plan on being the last domestic car salesman standing. For the past 5 1/2 years I have been employed by the Garber organization. I cannot explain in this short space what a difference it has made in my and my families lives to work for this organization. We are not pushed to "sell cars" we are not pushed "to get more gross profit" we are motivated to "take care of the customer". This is the only organization that I have ever dealt with that takes care of the people first. This philosphy has become a culture in our business and our lives. Closing an excellent dealership because it is a "single point" is just not right in this case. In fact Garber Buick should remain open to show the rest of the automotive world, and every other business owner, that when everything is done right, for all of the right reasons, that their business will survive and flourish for over 100 years.
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Nichole Nowicki-Veritz
2009/06/09 11:52:43
I have been an employee with the Garber family for almost two years now. In that time period I have learned what it means to work for a real company who cares about there employees and there customers. Closing Garber Buick would be a huge mistake on General Motors part, but not matter what the decision, they will continue to be a strong company who is dedicated to there customers, employees, and the community.
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Charles Carter
2009/06/09 11:04:39
I have been a Buick car owner for at least 50 years and all but one of those cars were bought from Garber Buick. I started buying my Buicks at Garber in Bay City until that dealership was sold. Since then I have dealt with Garber of Saginaw even thought that dealership is more than 20 miles away. My latest model is the 2008 Buick Lucurne. I find it hard to believe that GM would ever consider dropping Garber as an authorized dealership because I have found them ro be absolutely top rateg in everything they do. Their customer service is certainly topnotch, their facility must rank at the top of any dealership in the country and I also know them to be generous supporters of their home town community. I certainly urge GM to reconsider any thoughts they have in closing this outstanding dealership.
Sincerely:
Charles M. Carter
2133 Third Street
Bay City, MI. 48708
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Nancy Riffel
2009/06/09 10:50:34
My husband Rick and I are asking General Motors to seriously reconsider the decision that was made to close the Garber Buick dealership in Saginaw Township. Dick Garber and the Garber Automotive Group are at the top of their league, and have done all the right things for our community and the automotive industry. We feel a serious mistake was made with this decision and are pleading with you to keep this dealership open.
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Stephanie Bauer
2009/06/09 10:01:23
I hope that General Motors will reconsider it's decision to terminate Garber Buick's franchise. In my opinion, Garber Buick symbolizes the epitome of what General Motors should strive to be: honest, reliable and committed to it's customers and community. The loss of Garber Buick would not only be devastating to the Great Lakes Bay Region, but to also General Motors as well. To close one of the top ranking and oldest Buick dealerships in the nation would be completely irrational. Please rethink your decision and do what's best for both Saginaw and General Motors.
Sincerely,
Stephanie Bauer
Saginaw Future Inc.
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MIKE HOGAN
2009/06/09 09:10:48
June 8, 2009
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GMNA Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
Mr. LaNeve,
I am writing this letter in an effort to have you reconsider a termination letter that was received by Garber Buick in Saginaw, MI. Garber Buick has been in business since 1907, and has been a long time leader in community involvement. Garber Buick was an intragal part of Buick Motor Division’s birth, as Guy Garber was the only Distributor for the Mid-Michigan area.
Garber Buick has met all of the requirements that you had outline as far as what dealers will, or will not make the cut through the Bankruptcy filing. It has always been a profitable dealer. It is one of only a handful of Flagship Buick store in the country. Recently, Garber was the #1 retail Buick Dealer in the country. In terms of civic responsibility, I would challenge any one to show me a dealer that gives back more to their community.
I am employed by Garber at their Illinois location. In the 22 years that I have been in the automotive industry, I have spent half of that time with the Garber Group. In my opinion, there is not a better run dealer group in the country. Dick Garber genuinely cares about his employees, his customers, and the communities that he serves.
I have to believe that the only reason that a letter was generated to terminate Garber Buick was because of their single point status. I would like to believe that if these facts are taken into consideration, Garber Buick will continue to service their customers for another 100 years.
Thank you for your time, and best of luck going forward with the New GM.
Regards,
Mike Hogan
Parts Manager
Sunrise Chevrolet
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Sharon Hopper
2009/06/09 08:27:14
Although I am a transplant here to the Saginaw Area, it didn't take me long to understand the impact that the Garber family has on this community. It is obvious that the Garber family has a passion for success not only in business but also with the development of the Great Lakes Bay Region.
It would be a disgrace for GM to rescind the Garber Buick Dealership. Their dedication to professionalism and integrity is apparent the moment you walk into the Garber Buick Dealership. This a top notch operation that will retain the loyal GM customers for years to come.
Our community associates Buick with Garber and Garber with Buick. They belong together.
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William A. Crane
2009/06/09 08:04:01
Our family have driving buicks since the early 1920 and been very pleased with sales and service. The Garbers have been the greatest public contributors for all those years. This is a GM town, and not to have Garbers is like the end of the automobile and Saginaw has arrived, let alone there will be no other other Buick dealer. This mistake must be reversed, but we don't even know who to write to. Please advise.
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Ron Harris
2009/06/09 07:33:03
Garber Buicks Most Prestigious Award.....
Congratulations to Dick Garber and all of the quality employees, (past and present), that over the last couple of days have received their most prestigious award. GBC has won every award that can be given by Buick and GM over the storied 102 year history. More importantly, the outpouring of support by the Saginaw Community and your customer base, tells the real story. We are reminded once Again in FL. and company wide that it is not about sales volume or CSI scores, but rather the CULTURE that the entire Team has created daily-monthly-yearly of treating each of our customers as family. Selling more units and getting high marks are only the by-product of doing what's right and earning the Trust of a community. GM may decide to wind down dealerships in the US, however, no one can ever wind down the relationships that Garber Buick has created. Congratulations on receiving the Highest Award any business can hope to receive, the Trust, Respect, and patronage from the Saginaw and Mid-Michigan Community.
Continued success for the next 102 years.
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Pat and Lou Ognisanti
2009/06/09 07:11:58
We are very upset at the decision to close your dealership. We do not understand the rationale. You have had a very profitable company for over one hundred years, you are the only Buick dealership in the area and we think you are the oldest Buick dealership in the country. Please let us know what we can do to help you convince G.M. otherwise.
Pat and Lou Ognisanti
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Robert Miller
2009/06/09 07:00:02
I am a loyal buyer of Buicks from the Buick Dealer on State Street, but to have to take my Buick to any other dealer would change my mind on whether I get a Buick or not. I have dealt with this dealer many times over the years and I trust this dealer with my car. If GM is going to make decisions like this, I don't want to be any part of GM. How can you close down a business that is an asset to both GM and to the Saginaw area for so many years? I hope GM management will reverse the decision to terminate Garber Buick on State Street and give this dealer the respect and support it has earned.
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Sallie Enszer
2009/06/08 23:19:58
The notice to close Garbers is beyond shocking--it's heartbreaking! With just one experience at Garber Buick it's evident why they're number 1. There isn't a dealership that can compare with them...they're in a class of their own. Chopping should start at the bottom--not at the top! I pray that GM will come to their senses and reverse their decision.
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Ellen Hatcher
2009/06/08 23:03:46
Mark LaNeve,
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Services & Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Detroit, MI
Dear Mr. LaNeve,
I want to add my single voice to the many that have been raised in praise of Garber Buick Dealership in the Mid-Michigan Region. Garber Buick Dealership and Mr. Dick Garber are living examples of the values GM wants their customers to think of when they think of GM: integrity, reliability, honesty, commitment, innovation and class.
In my community, Garber and Buick are interchangeable. Mr. Dick Garber has ensured through his high standards that owning a Buick is seen as a valuable asset in our community.
I am sure you have received many similar letters. I can only tell you that Mr. Dick Garber and Garber Buick stands out from other dealers because he brings a personal touch and hands-on approach to his business and to his community. He takes time with anyone, no matter who they are, because he knows that he is building a customer base for generations to come.
I know you have hard decisions to make. Keeping Garber Buick is a smart move for both GM and Mid-Michigan.
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Peter Ryan
2009/06/08 22:34:46
6-8-09
Mr. Mark LaNeve
Gm North America Vice President
General Motors Corporation
Dear Mr. LaNeve:
I hope you take the time to read the hundreds of comments regarding Garber Buick that have accumulated in the few short days since GM announced the closing of Garber Buick in Saginaw.
Garber Buick is more than just a dealership in the Saginaw community. It is a fixture that has represented a positive community based business that supports schools, private non-profit organizations and Saginaw County.
You are fortunate to have a dealership led by a successful businessman that truly cares about the community that he lives in. I have had the opportunity to work with Dick Garber in the community and in business and have been treated in a professional caring manner each time.
It is disappointing to see a company that is trying to reorganize under Chapter 11 in a quick and concise manner cut one of the dealerships that is one of the most successful in the nation. You have kept the Buick line because it is a quality automobile that can turn a profit. Why would you cut one of the few dealerships that actually turns a profit with that line?
This is a difficult time in our country and the economic landscape is changing dramatically. I would think if the NEW GM is going to change the minds of millions of people, it would want to keep its loyal customers. You should look at the dealerships and owners that have been successful in their communities and make sure that you will not alienate hundreds or thousands of current or future customers by closing dealerships.
I would be happy to discuss the contributions of Garber Buick and Dick Garber at further length. This community and state needs stability and forward thinking people and I would highly recommend you review your decision regarding the Garber Buick store in Saginaw, Michigan.
Sincerely,
Peter Ryan, CMAA
District Athletic Director
Saginaw Township Community Schools
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Mike Wolf
2009/06/08 22:23:35
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Detroit, Michigan
Dear Mr. LaNeve
Just Say Yes ?
This would make a great opportunity to Just Say No !
Stand up for Your Company's Customers vs. a 'Government spreadsheet jockey'... and Do the right Thing.
Spreadsheets don't make Profits.... Customers Do ...
Of course, As mere citizens and consumers, You really don't have to listen to any of us.
But, ... Can you hear the 3oo people writing above me ?
Don't they all have the same story ?
Do you have any more passionate customers than you see right here?
I don't think so ! Do the right Thing... Just Say No !
Mike Wolf
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Thomas Schomaker
2009/06/08 22:14:49
Mr. LaNeve
GMNAVP
GMC
Sir:
It saddens me to hear of the news you want to close GARBER BUICK in Saginaw. Do you have any idea what this family has done for GM and the Saginaw Valley over the past 100 years?
They have given GM a proud name and many sales of Buicks over these years along with world class excellence in sales, service and customer satisfaction.
In Saginaw, they have given themselves to our community. Through out the years, they have donated many dollars and time to various foundations, museums, hospitals, United Way and other philanthropic groups.
Your loss will be the sales and hard work those folks do to give GM a proud name at their dealership. Our community will lose another steadfast leader in helping a lending hand either in time or money.
Now is not the time to have this dealership close, for what they will do in the future for you and our community can never be calculated.
Finally, with the loss of Garber Buick, one must drive 30 miles plus to purchase or have their Buick serviced. I as a GM customer will not do that and would look at competive dealers that are closer to my home.
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Elaine Jackson
2009/06/08 22:10:26
I think it is terrible that GM even considered closing Garber, one of the best dealerships in the nation. I hope they appeal and remain in the community for years to come. We are hoping and praying for a successful outcome.
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Diane Naleson
2009/06/08 22:08:44
I am writig in response to the closing of Garber Buick.
I am a customer of the Garber Family through Nissian and now buick. No matter if your car is new or a older one the service is still the same.They are willing to meet your needs and treat you with respect. They con't treat the ladies like they don't know what they are talking about they listen to your concerns.
It would be a shame to close such a well respected dealership that has been around for 100plus years.Garber has given so much to the community and his employees and their families.
His employees give back also by going out into the city and cleaning up the parks and also going into schools and help children read. My daughter is one of those employees. How many of the other dealerships would do that not too many I don;t think. So please reconsider your postion on this matter.
Sincerly
Diane Naleson
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Thomas Schomaker
2009/06/08 21:57:33
Mr. LaNeve
GMNAVP
GMC
Sir:
It saddens me to hear of the news you want to close GARBER BUICK in Saginaw. Do you have any idea what this family has done for GM and the Saginaw Valley over the past 100 years?
They have given GM a proud name and many sales of Buicks over these years along with world class excellence in sales, service and customer satisfaction.
In Saginaw, they have given themselves to our community. Through out the years, they have donated many dollars and time to various foundations, museums, hospitals, United Way and other philanthropic groups.
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Bob & Kate Miller
2009/06/08 21:41:47
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Mr. LaNeve,
We are writing this on behalf of Mr. Dick Garber and Garber Buick of Saginaw. We were deeply saddened by General Motors decision to take the Buick dealership from Dick Garber. We believe it was a seriously misguided decision. This decision negatively impacts all of Saginaw and unfortunately General Motors.
Dick Garber is more than just a “car dealer”; he is one of the most respected citizens in this community. Because of his well deserved status he, more than anyone, could help General Motors regain the confidence of this community. Dick Garber has taken his family’s business and made it an icon of Saginaw. He has used his business to help make a positive impact on this community.
The decision to remove Dick Garber’s Buick Dealership appears to be one that did not take into account anything other than that he is a “single point” dealership. Dick Garber and his Buick Dealership are so much more. Realizing the importance of Dick Garber to this community is something that could prove to Saginaw that General Motors is a company that makes its business decisions based on the community and give this community a reason to continue to support it. Dick Garber is the heart of Saginaw, to survive General Motors will have to show it has heart to win back Saginaw.
Allowing Dick Garber to continue his century old dealership would be a win-win for General Motors and Saginaw. General Motors continues its partnership with a proven winner and one that will always make General Motors look good. Saginaw is allowed to keep its heart, its champion. In closing the dealership both Saginaw and General Motors lose.
As active members of this community, ones who are involved in many different groups and organizations, we can guarantee General Motors that this decision has been perceived very poorly, but one that can be rectified. Allowing Dick Garber’s dealership to remain active will allow General Motors and Saginaw to move forward in this difficult time with honor and the support that is necessary for both to grow and thrive.
Thank you for allowing us this opportunity to express our feelings in support of Dick Garber.
Bob and Kate Miller
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sybil paquette
2009/06/08 21:41:15
I grew up as the daughter of an hourly GM employee. My father said you buy what you make, or you're saying you don't do the best. He has purchased his cars from Garber, and never had a complaint. I also have always purchased GM cars, because I am greatful for the financial support they gave to my childhood and my community. The GM presence has been shrinking in Saginaw, but Garbers had remained a strong GM presence through the dealership and their commitment to this community. You still have a large group of committed second and third generation GM supporters, but every additional blow to this community will weaken this base.
I am respectfully requesting that you reconsider the closure of Garber Buick in Saginaw. They have always had a reputation for fair, ethical sales; and a reliable; prompt service. They have been supportive of this community, and if they are allowed to continue, I am sure they will remain an excellent example of "Buick" and all the quality and commitment that the name implies.
Thank you for your serious consideration.
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Mike Hall
2009/06/08 21:35:43
We would like to encourage GM to reconsider the decision to close Garber Buick. Dick and his employees have provided our family with excellent service for years. Saginaw appreciates and needs Garber Buick.
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Kim & Sue Cederberg
2009/06/08 21:19:49
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Dear Mr. LaNeve,
Shocked and saddened are we to hear of the potential closing of Garber Buick.
That dealership has been in the Saginaw community since 1907, it is an ICON; over one hundred years old and most impressive in its third generation of family ownership. Dick Garber operates his business with honesty, fairness, integrity and commitment. Commitment not only to his loyal customers but a commitment to the community in which he works and lives. He is an important asset to the GM family with his world class facility, excellent sales records, and top notch service. Other corporations/businesses should be so blessed, honored and fortunate to have their product represented on that kind of level.
To lose Garber Buick would be a crushing blow to the 70+ employees and their families, to the loyal customers, and to the community which is supported through the generosity and success of the Garber family.
Mark, please reconsider your decision and keep Garber Buick in business with the "new" GM for many generations to come.
Sincerely,
Kim and Sue Cederberg
Cederberg Funeral Home of Frankenmuth
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Douglas Woodington
2009/06/08 20:54:12
I don't understand why would GM close a dealership is one of there top dealers in the country. It just doesn't make any good business sense to kill on of your best dealers in the country. I wonder if GM kills all the good dealerships where would they be? Not in Business !! The need all the great dealers like Garber to keep them afloat thru these trouble times. Let the consumer decide if dealership survives or not. Not GM.
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Dennis Woods II Mental Health Therapist
2009/06/08 20:47:09
Simply put if Garber Buick closes you don't have to worry about me or my family buying a GM automobile in the future, I can not support an automobile industry that makes bad decesions.
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regina bensch-packala
2009/06/08 20:43:06
Corporations do many things that defy common sense in the name of betterment of the greater good but this is beyond comprehension. How is this for the greater good of Saginaw, the country, or GM? Garber is more than an icon or a"INSTITUTION" of 102 years. It is human investment and future. When will we get it people first--the greatest good--cmmon sense.
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stan sobol
2009/06/08 20:36:23
Dick Garber is a consummate professional and the Garber Buick dealership is an outstanding and extremely attractive business facility. In my opinion it is the highlight of the State street miracle mile as well as Saginaw itself. It would be a travesty for G.M. and Saginaw to lose such an asset. I hope G.M. will reconsider this decision for their own future and that of a community that has supported them for many years.
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Steve Sielinski
2009/06/08 20:17:28
June 8, 2009
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Detroit, Michigan
Dear Mr. LaNeve,
I am taking the time to write this letter in an effort to have you reconsider the cancelation of the Garber Buick dealership in Saginaw; I believe this to be oversight that needs to be re-evaluated.
Let me begin by first letting you know that when someone mentions the name Dick Garber in the Saginaw community immediately thoughts of integrity, leadership, trust worthiness and community support come to mind. Mr. Garber is an example of true community leadership; from his commitment to the not only the Dow Event Center with the Saginaw Spirit, the Saginaw Spirit Foundation, the Saginaw Children’s Museum, but most importantly for continuing the family business of offering a first class dealership that exemplifies quality and service second to none. My father in-law introduced me to doing business with Garbers and we both have had the pleasure of being not only a satisfied Garber customer in the purchasing of our Buick automobiles but my family has been a proud season ticket holder of the Saginaw Spirit since Mr. Garber brought the OHL to Saginaw. Mr. Garber has been demonstrated how to be a successful business man along with positively impacting our community, he has made Saginaw a better place.
In today’s society with the challenges the economy has gone through in the last few years I have problem in penalizing an organization that does not put their willingness to get ahead in front of offering the core values stated above that exemplify what a successful dealership should be. I trust with the challenges ahead for GM it only makes sense to have the Best of the Best representing your product line and with that said I feel it is in your best interest to reconsider the cancelation of the Buick dealership with the Garber family.
When you do business with the Garber Buick you feel that you have done right, you have not been taken advantage of, you got a fair deal that everyone wins at and you have an organization that will stand behind their word…in today’s economy that is worth millions…
Sincerely,
Steve Sielinski
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Matt & Jennie Doyle
2009/06/08 20:00:16
We hope that General Motors will reconsider its decision to close Garber Buick in Saginaw. Dick and his family have been a great asset to our community for many years. We hope that they are allowed to continue this tradition.
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Gregg Maekel
2009/06/08 19:54:38
June 5th, 2009
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President
General Motors Corporation
I am writing you this letter today concerning the third generation family owned business of the Garber family, Garber Buick of Saginaw, Michigan.
I have personally purchased in the last thirty years more than thirty new General Motors vehicles. My father, a proud retiree of The General Motors Corporation, has also purchased many new vehicles, all of them General Motors if I might add. Many of these vehicles were purchased at Garber Buick of Saginaw or another Garber Automotive Center.
As you already know the history of the Garber family and Garber Buick is second to none. Nowhere in The United States will you find a story like this. With a Vision Statement of; “To be the BEST automobile sales and repair operation in every market we serve.” It is not by luck they have become so successful in every market they serve.
As a native of Saginaw, Michigan the Garber family has provided people with automobiles for over 100 years. They have done this with honesty, respect, good moral character and a deep sense of personal responsibility. They have also been the leader in promoting Saginaw, Michigan and contributing both their time and wealth to the community. The Garber family has done more for this community than any other has ever done.
Garber Buick is a major ICON for the Saginaw Area. To see it change is disheartening to many. The fact is that Garber on State Street in Saginaw, Michigan will survive. We all hope and pray that it will include Buick Motor Division. If not, all the lifelong loyal families and customers of the Garber Family will continue to support whatever product they choose to represent. That is because we will not sacrifice our loyalty nor will we settle for less in professionalism and service.
I pray and hope the right decisions are made.
With much concern,
Gregg S. Matekel
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Kelly Ferchau
2009/06/08 19:35:39
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Mr. LaNeve:
I am writing not only as a customer of Garber Buick in Saginaw, but also as a Local History & Genealogy librarian at the Public Libraries of Saginaw. I would like to inform you of the deep commitment that Garber Buick has, and continues to have, in our community. They have been in business in Saginaw for over 100 years, which is a tribute to their dedication to their customers and their force in our community.
As a customer of Garber Buick, I have been impressed with their total commitment to sales and service. In fact, I recently wrote a letter to Mr. Garber after purchasing a new vehicle from his dealership. I was totally impressed with everyone that I came in contact with, from the receptionist, the salesmen, and service personnel. I wouldn’t think of purchasing a vehicle from another dealership, based on the excellent service that I have received from Garber.
I am petitioning you to please reconsider closing the Garber Buick dealership in Saginaw, Michigan. It would be a tremendous loss to our community and to all of the dedicated customers they serve.
Kelly Ferchau
Local History & Genealogy Collection
Public Libraries of Saginaw
505 Janes Ave.
Saginaw, Michigan 48607
(989) 755-9827
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Cheryl Zinz
2009/06/08 19:26:05
I am writing in support of Dick Garber and Garber Automotive Group. I am saddened to hear that GM does not support the oldest Buick franchise. Please reconsider your decision. Dick Garber and Garber Management operate a superior dealership in Saginaw Township that EVERY dealership should wish to emulate. Top notch salespeople and service department.... a true asset to GM and Buick. Garber has long been a sponsor of community events and takes great interest in the people of the area. I agree with the Slaggerts ... Garber IS synonymous with Buick. I believe a mistake has been made.
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Mary and Don McPhee
2009/06/08 18:48:17
We were shocked when we heard that GM was terminating Garber's Buick franchise.
How can they close a dealership that makes so much money for GM? Perhaps that is one of the reasons GM is in trouble today!
We have bought 5 buicks from Garber's - mostly from Dick Herzog. We think Garber's is a first class operation and wish you luck in the appeals process.
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Chester Andrews
2009/06/08 18:47:22
I am an owner of a buick. two of my family also own buicks purchased at Garber buick I find it very bad that you are closing the garber dealership they are one of the best in the whole United States. You should not close them down.
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Julie Behmlander
2009/06/08 18:43:38
I was shocked and confused at the news of GM wanting to close the dealership in Saginaw. I always thought if a business was thriving then you keep it open and model your other business like it. The Garbers have given so much to this community that it will be a shame to close a first class operation.
GM, I only have one thing to say: "You'll do better WITH Garber!"
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Bette Kitsch
2009/06/08 18:32:38
Mr Mark LaNeve
I have witnessed some pretty shocking things in my 87 years of life, but this one topped them all! I have known the Garber family and cannot believe that being voted the top dealership in the country doesn't mean anything. If working hard to represent the GM family for over four generations as well as playing an enormous part in the community doesn't keep your business intact, what are we teaching the future car buyers and community leaders? General Motors needs to wake up or it will be too late for us all! Please rethink your decision and keep Garber Buick open!
Bette Kitsch
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Ed & Ursula Slaggert
2009/06/08 18:30:49
As long-time and very satisfied customers of Garber Buick, it is indeed shocking that GM is closing this Buick dealership. We We are hoping for a reversal of this ill-conceived decision. In the Saginaw/Bay area of Michigan -- and indeed beyond -- the name GARBER is synonymous with Buick. Closing this dealership will be devastating.
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Dewayne Dailey
2009/06/08 18:27:48
Owner Of Digital Designs:
I cannot understand why GM would close a dealership that has the class a excellence of Garber Buick.
It will be a shame if GM ruins our community and forces Garber to close.
STOP GM! DO THE RIGHT THING!
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Anne and Mark Flegenheimer
2009/06/08 18:16:32
We were shocked and saddened to learn of GM's decision to discontinue Garber Buick's franchise agreement. We have been loyal customers of GM because of Dick Garber. The Garber family's business development and community involvement is unmatched in our region. Garber's philanthropy has had a positive impact on life in the Great Lakes Bay Region.
We hope GM will reconsider its decision and keep Buick at Garber in Saginaw. Dick Garber's reputation is exceptional and unparalleled. Losing the Buick franchise will not change his reputation, but it will do irreparable harm to GM's image and sales in our region.
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Joe Rigda
2009/06/08 18:13:34
Garber should be able to keep the Buick dealership, it is one of the oldest dealers and a mainstay in our community. their sales and service has been outstanding, their charitable contributions to the area also outstanding, GM needs dealers like GARBER who cares about employees and the community they serve. PLEASE SAVE THIS DEALERSHIP.SAGINAW NEEDS GARBER.
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Mark & Sheila (kitsch) Baumer
2009/06/08 18:12:49
Dear Garber Family
We could not believe the news of your dealership possibly closing. My mother went to school with Dick's father and I with Dick's sister Jill. I was not close to the family but am very aware of their dedication to their business as well as the community! This country could use more families like yours. I was employed by General Motors as was my father and my mothers father. I never thought I would live to see the day that GM would go bankrupt. We have felt the toll of this at home with pay and insurance loss, however what they are doing with these closings will have an effect on the whole community. Saginaw has suffered so much already; I do not see where there is that much savings to the company. Our government needs to look at the whole picture; the long run, not just the short. We have owned buicks for four generations in Saginaw and hope to for many more to come.
Our Best Wishes,
The Baumer Family
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Kelly Belcher
2009/06/08 18:04:52
I was shocked when I read about GM's unwise decision to close the Garber Buick dealership in Saginaw, Michigan.
After more than a century of good business practices and strong community ties, the Garber family should be used as an example for other GM dealerships. Their hard work and long standing loyalty should not be dismissed in this fashion. GM should think about the message their decision is sending to other auto dealerships and workers; is this how GM rewards hard work and loyalty?
Dick Garber and his family are as dedicated to this community as they have been to GM for so many years. The Garber's and their dealership are highly respected in Saginaw and GM should be proud to have such a family representing them.
Kelly Belcher
Synergy Medical, Community Relations
Downtown Saginaw Association, Member
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Chris & Dawn Gillard
2009/06/08 17:48:38
GM has made a huge MISTAKE!!! How can you take your the number 1 Buick dealership and shut it down? I understand you want a "stronger, leaner GM" but how can you achieve that when you shut Garber Buick down?? We have been a part of the Garber employee family for several years but my family has been a part of GM for more than 35 years. If the you cannot overturn your decision, you are not only going to loose loyal customers, but your overall standing with many in the area!
If you don't reverse your decision, we may think twice before purchasing another GM vehicle!
Good luck Mr. Garber. We are behind you 100%!
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Brian Crawford
2009/06/08 17:45:08
Garber is the best GM dealer in this area. The customer service and selection cannot be matched by any other dealer in the Tri City area.
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RENEE MCCOY
2009/06/08 17:41:53
June 8, 2009
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors
RE: Garber Buick
Garber Buick has been in business for over 100 years, they have made it through the worst depression this country has ever seen. Even today, with the current economic times, Garber Buick has out sold their sister stores, and kept their incredible CSI numbers intact, does that not say enough? If the name Garber is even mentioned in this community, you think of Garber Buick, and their commitment to Saginaw for as long as you can remember, and for me, my whole life. I have dealt with many dealerships in the Tri-Cities, and Garber Buick is by far the best. Their facility is state of the art, and most importantly their service is phenomenal. You walk in the doors of any of their facilities, and you can feel that they are in business to make their customers happy, not just to sell them something.
You may ask yourself, how did General Motors come to be in the position they are in at the moment? The answer is easy, when they take away the franchise of one of their number one selling Buick dealerships in the country; it is not surprising that they are where they are. Businesses and people make mistakes, that is the way of life, but when an obvious mistake is made, the only smart thing to do is correct it. This is your chance to take a step forward in getting General Motors back on their feet, and you will do that by correcting the mistakes that have been made in the past, and by correcting this most recent blasphemy of a decision.
Sincerely,
Renee McCoy
Customer…Saginaw, MI
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Terry Snook
2009/06/08 17:29:02
It is not just Garber's it is all the dealers getting the axe. GM needs to rethink on what they are doing for the simple reason people are not going put up with the problem of service. I wont wait forever to have service when only a few dealerships will be open. This will force people to buy from the auto company that has service, in a reasonable distance from their homes.
I worked for GM and love GM but in these times everyone has problems but you must be reasonable in your descision making, I hope and pray that GM will allow Garber Buick to continue to sell Buick, service Buick and have the outstanding service to the Michigan area and further more GM.
Thank you, Terry
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Mary Burns
2009/06/08 17:27:15
I find it very difficult to see what GM will get out of the downsizing of respectable dealers like Garber's. That is not the American way! "If" a business fails then they closes, on the other hand if it is "sucessful" it survives...that is the American way!
Go get them Dick Garber; you have alot of supporters behind you for the fine job you and your group have done for 100+ years.
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Nathan Selle
2009/06/08 17:25:15
We as a nation are facing some of the toughest economical times since the great depression. The government has initiated stimulus payments to get Americans to invest in America! Everywhere you turn, people are doing what they can to stabilize this troubled economy. GM has been the cornerstone of the U.S. automotive industry for a very long time, and they have built a loyal consumer base who buys American made cars year in and year out! Yet they have made an unwise decision to get rid of one of the BEST dealerships is Michigan... and maybe even one of the BEST in the Nation?
Is this the answer to solving our economic dilemma? Take a dealership that had outstanding marks in every category of business and throw them to the wolves when times get tough? I understand that GM needs to streamline its organization to get moving in the right direction... But shutting down one of Buick's BEST dealerships is not the answer to their problems! The Garber family has been selling cars since before GM was even GM! The Garber family has built a company that has surpassed anyone's expectations, a company that sees their customers as individuals, not numbers, facts, or figures. A company that outsells all of its competitors, but still knows their customers by name when they come through their doors! Garber Buick is a model dealership that sets the standard for the automotive business! A true example of what American business should be like... If GM turns its back on Garber, they are turning their back on AMERICA!
Garber Buick deserves the opportunity to continue being one of the BEST car dealerships in the Nation! Don't take that away from them! Any company that has been in business for over a century.... Must be doing something RIGHT!
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Pam Fagan
2009/06/08 17:20:22
GM should model All dealerships after GArber Buick. The emphasis on customer service and committment to the community should be repeated over and over again- I think everyone in the tri-city area values the Garber philosophy of working hard for both customers and community.
It is my sincere hope that GM will prove to its customers that they also value Dealerships that deliver such a high level of commitment and caring for all customers. Think twice, GM before you shut down such a positive influence for your company.Again, you need to use Garber as the MODEL FOR ALL DEALERSHIPS THAT CARRY GM PRODUCTS!
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Carolyn
2009/06/08 17:18:51
My husband worked for Buick for 36 years, they put out one of the BESR CARS and received AWARDS for it but "GM CLOSED THEM DOWN!!". You have Garber who has supported you for 92 years and you still have NOT LEARNED ANYTHING you are trying to "CLOSE THEM DOWN" when will GM learn. GM needs to SUPPORT those that support them. KEEP GARBER OPEN.
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Brian Kurtz
2009/06/08 17:17:56
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Re: Mr. LaNeve I would like you to reconsider your decision to close down the oldest and best Buick Store in this wonderful country. The Garber’s have been a staple in Middle Michigan throughout the generations with providing great vehicles to great hardworking people. They have started an organization that prides themselves on giving back to the community and to make sure that everyone they employee is treated in a way where they return to do work every day and enjoy every second of their jobs.
That is why I am writing to you today, my name is Brian Kurtz and I am an employee for Mr. Garber and the Garber Organization. I have been in the car industry for 7 years now and all I can say is that my best three years have been with the Garber Organization. My fellow employees and I would not have this opportunity if it was not for the success of Garber Buick. Garber Buick is the heartbeat that keeps our whole organization moving. It is where all the values of our organization were set in stone, and the store the rest of the organization sets as a benchmark for excellence.
I understand the responsibility of GM to make hard decisions during these hard times, but don’t make a decision based on a spread sheet, make a decision on good corporate values. The Garber Buick store has given back for many years; they shouldn’t lose their Flagship Store because some spreadsheet said they didn’t make the cut. You should allow them to stay open because the values they have and customer service they show can’t be formulated in numbers but can be part of what GM wants out of each and every one of their future dealers. I plead with you to overturn your decision on winding down Garber Buick and allow them to stay open so they can serve many more years as a loyal partner with GM and a wonderful dealership where customers would like to return to do business with them again and again and again. Thank you in advance for your consideration in this manner.
Sincerely,
Brian and Marisol Kurtz
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Dick Wolverton
2009/06/08 17:08:03
For the life of me, I don't understand where eliminating Buick dealerships is going to make more sales for GM. If anything, they should be adding more dealers to get their product out in the public. Hoepfully they will reconsider their idiotic decision.
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Bryan Wagner
2009/06/08 17:06:31
Garber Buick should keep it's franchise agreement. Garber Buick is one of the best dealers in the country. It is by far, the best dealer in the area. Garber Buick is exactly the type of dealership that represents Buick and GM the way they should be represented. They are a pillar in the community. Customer satisfaction is a way of life, not just an index that they strive for.
They have been selling Buick's for 102 years, and they should be allowed to sell them for another 102 years. Please reverse your decision to not renew Garber Buick's franchise agreement, GM needs dealers like Garber Buick to survive.
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Arlene Carney
2009/06/08 17:05:30
GM needs Garber Buick. Saginaw needs Garber Buick. GM is just putting one more nail in the coffin.
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Britt Heinz
2009/06/08 17:01:35
As a local business owner in the Tri-City area I would like to comment on the decision that General Motors has chosen to terminate the Garber Buick franchise of Saginaw. Dick Garber and his staff have represented the Buick name by exceeding sales and giving overwhelming customer satisfaction in the 100 years they have been in service. Not only the commitment Dick Garber gives to the Buick brand he gives that same commitment to the Saginaw community. Please reconsider the decision on terminating a long standing symbol of the Tri-City area.
Britt Heinz
Heinz Tree Service & Landscaping
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JoAnn Coates
2009/06/08 17:01:33
General Motors "Are YOU Crazy"
Garber Buick represents GM with excellence and above customer satisfaction that extends over 102 years.
General Motors "Are YOU Crazy"
Garber Buick is a long term profitable service/sales franchise for Buick.
General Motors "Are YOU Crazy"
Garber Buick excels in trust, loyalty, with customers who remain not only year after year but generation after generation customers to the Buick/GM brand vehicles.
General Motors "Are YOU Crazy"
New "GM" you want to let Garber Buick go and risked this base?
New GM "Are you Crazy"
Garber Buick short/long term dependability, profitability, successful sale and service can bring this future to New GM.
Garber Buick customer's and GM customer's will return generations from now and the end to Garber Buick.
New GM "Are YOU Crazy"
Business sence you won't regret or be crazy.
Take a second look at Garber Buick and it successful business, Garber Buick is part of a strong future for GM.
Sincerely,
JoAnn Coates
Please Keep Buick at Garber Buick!
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Michigan Recovery Services
2009/06/08 16:57:14
Mr. LaNeve:
My company has both given and received services from Garber Buick and I can honestly say the service is top notch! No matter what the customer needs or wants there is always someone willing to do the extra step and make it happen.
It will be a sad day in the Saginaw area if GM truly does close this dealership. GM and the community have a lot to lose if this terrible decision sticks. Have you, Mr. LaNeve, done your homework and fully understand what a devastating financial decision that has been made, not only for the community of Saginaw but more importantly in your eyes I’m sure, for GM?? Garber has not only been a tremendous addition to the Saginaw area but also to General Motors. Just looking at sales alone, Garber Buick has performed! The “New GM” NEEDS Garber Buick!
The pride the Garber organization has in representing the Buick line and GM as a whole is unbelievable. If you want a Buick, you go to Garber – it’s that simple. My business and family will continue to support the Garber organization, regardless of GM’s decision – it will only benefit GM to continue to be a part of such a successful organization!
Sincerely yours,
Michigan Recovery Services
Saginaw, Michigan
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Don Donahue
2009/06/08 16:56:28
Through the years i have been more than pleased with the sales and service follow up from Garber Buick. I have Leased or bought 2 vehicles every 2-3 years since the early 1980's, it does not make sense to take away the franchise from Garber Buick. I would ask GM to reconsider their decision and reinstate Garbers for Buick sales.
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Joe Bommarito
2009/06/08 16:55:17
June 8, 2009
J & B Products, Ltd.
2301 S. Michigan Ave.
Saginaw, MI 48602
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North American Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Dear Mr. LaNeve,
I have been a customer of Garber Buick in Saginaw, MI, for my personal and business vehicles for many years. They have always had a very professional staff and have given me excellent service.
Our community’s (and the country’s) tax dollars are keeping certain corporations in business – not because they are well run, but because they are “too big to let them fail.” I urge you to reverse your decision to close the top dealership not only in our area, but in the country. Many businesses and residents share this belief. After all, Garber is a successful, well-run business and remains so after more than 102 years. They are one of the Saginaw region’s economic bright spots, and a generous donor of time and financial assistance to this community.
Dick Garber is a man of the highest integrity and understands the needs of our community. I do not know of a person who has anything but the highest respect for him and the people who work at Garber Buick. If you close Garber this region will lose much more than just a car dealership. Again, I strongly urge you to reverse this decision.
Sincerely,
Joseph C. Bommarito
J & B Products
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Carol Cottrell
2009/06/08 16:42:06
As a devoted Garber customer, I was incredulous that GM could make such decision in determining to terminate the Garber Buick dealership agreement. Garber has long stood for integrity, honesty, and commitment.....all values that reflected positively upon Buick as well as Garber. The legacy of Garber has been one of community leadership and service, not merely automobile sales and customer service. I remain deeply hopeful that GM will correct this gravely erroneous decision.
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Charlie DiMercurio
2009/06/08 16:30:43
We are surprised and saddened to learn of General Motors decision to close the Buick dealership owned by the Garber family. The Garber name has been a part of our community for over 100 years. Garber has set a wonderful example of leadership and more importantly generosity to the community. Garber is also a great supporter and stimulator of local businesses in the Mid Michigan area. The Garber Family has been and IS a foundation to the Saginaw Valley.
The DiMercurio Family
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Paulette Genco
2009/06/08 16:23:15
I am very concerned about General Motors decision to close the Garber Buick dealership in Saginaw Michigan. Dick Garber has been a dynamic leader in our community and has touched many lives through his philanthropic work. His positive nature and loyalty to Saginaw is immeasurable. Please reconsider your decision.
Thank you,
Paulette Genco
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James J. and Shirley A. Leibinger Sr.
2009/06/08 16:21:42
June 8, 2009
To: Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service sand Marketing
From: James J. and Shirley A. Leibinger Sr.
Subject: GM’s Decision to not Renew Saginaw Garber Buick’s Franchise to sell Buick Automobiles
Dear Mr. LaNeve:
Shock and disbelief best describes our feelings and that of many of our friends when we heard the GM announcement that Saginaw Garber Buick was on the list of dealers that would not have their Buick franchise renewed. As a GM retiree with 37 years of service and as a family that has purchased many new GM vehicles during this time, many of them Buicks, we can attest , that the Garber facilities, sales staff, and service department are second to none. This is truly a World Class Store with an excellent sales record that could be used as a model as to where all GM dealers need to be if GM is to recapture the position of its glory years.
For sure, the Saginaw area would benefit from a franchise renewal but we are convinced that GM would benefit the most.
We urge you to reconsider and restore the Buick franchise To Saginaw Garber Buick. It seems like the right thing to do for a Buick store that has been providing its customers with excellent service for many years.
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R. Howell
2009/06/08 16:13:33
Mr. LaNeve , I have always been very proud of my heritage. Born and raised in Flint, Michigan, the birthplace of General Motors ane home of Buick Motor cars. My pride took a huge hit a few years ago when the buick factory was closed. In fact mis-management and poor business decisions led to the closing of many GM plants. This once-proud city , with ten GM plants and thousands of GM workers has been reduced to a fraction of what it used to be. Events over the last week have reduced the greatest corporation in the world to mere puppet of the government. The termination of dealer contracts is the worst of all the bad decisions because it effects so many good people. You have the opportunity to reverse this decision in the case of Garber Buick of Saginaw, Michigan I have had the opportunity to be associated with the Garber Organization for the past ten years and I have never,ever, met a finer business man than Dick Garber or been involved with an organization that has done so much for a community and for General Motors. The definition of an asset is " a useful and desirable thing or quality ". The definition of a liability is "something disadvantageous , a debt or obligation. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to tell you that Garber Buick is an asset to General Motors. When the dust settles from all of this, GARBER PEOPLE WILL STILL BE STANDING. Shame on General Motors if they are not flying the Buick flag when it happens, thank you.
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Karen Pringle
2009/06/08 16:12:32
I cannot believe that after all the years of upstanding service this dealership has provided for GM that you now want to shut them down!
This is cutting off the hand that feeds YOU! It would be more cost effective/savings for you to cut back on your upper management, where there seem to be an overabundance of BIG salaries - just think of the savings you could make here. I feel it's another adage of too many Chiefs and not enough Indians!
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Kristin M. Karwat
2009/06/08 16:11:13
Dear Mr. LaNeve,
I am writing to you in response to General Motors decision to not renew the sales and service agreement with Garber Buick of Saginaw, MI. I understand that there a lot of factors that went into this difficult decision. What I don’t understand how anyone else could better represent General Motors and the Buick brand name than Garber Buick? This dealership represents everything the “New” General Motors wants to become and should reevaluate their position with this dealership. Mr. Garber has devoted his business to customer satisfaction and has built upon a family legacy existing more than 100 years. For General Motors to succeed it needs strong dealerships and the support of loyal customers. It will be a very sad day for our community and General Motors if we lose this dealership. Garber Buick has a proven sales record and a commitment to customers like no other. When you buy a car from Garber Buick you enter into a family and that alone is worth fighting for. I am just one voice but I hope you will hear my words and take another look.
Respectfully,
Kristin M. Karwat
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Mark Sikorski
2009/06/08 16:08:24
To: Mark LaNeve
I have purchased two vehicles from Garber Buick in the past 5 years. I will purchase my next vehicle from Garber. Garber’s service and commitment to Saginaw is unmatched by any company in the Tri-County area. It is because of this commitment that Garber has established a following that will survive these difficult times…whoever made the decision to revoke the Buick name from Garber needs to re think and reinstated the dealership. You may want to take Buick out of Garber….but you won't take Garber out of Saginaw. Mark, it is in GM's best interest to have Garber amongst your dealership profile moving forward.
Mark Sikorski
Saginaw, Michigan
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Jeff O'Deay
2009/06/08 15:54:55
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Dear Sir,
It is dissapointing news to hear that General Motors has decide to eliminate the # 1 Buick dealership in the country. Unlike General Motors, Garber exemplifies a winning team. The philosophy is simple. Create an experience for the customer so they will return. This has served Garber for 102 years. That is longer then General Motors has been in business. Garber needs General Motors. If General Motors wants to return to winning form, it is essential organizations like Garber are there to make that happen.
Jeff O'Deay
Saginaw, MI
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Beth Wooten
2009/06/08 15:52:11
My family and friends have bought our Buick's from Garber for many years.If Buick can no longer be associated with Garber, I doubt we will any longer be driving Buicks.
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Annie
2009/06/08 15:50:23
Losing Garber in Saginaw would be another great loss in a county that has been hit hard for so long by this reccession. Garber has done so much for our communtiy and I sincerely hope GM will reconsider it's decision. I drive a Buick and love it and I would like my next Buick to come from this community, from an establishment that has a proven reputation and ties to my wonderful home town.
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Jan Zlotnik
2009/06/08 15:44:41
This just doesnt make sense, that a dealership that has been in existance for 102 years is told to close their doors. I live in Macomb County and decided to buy a car from Garber's. I have been impressed with their outstanding customer service. I have driven to Saginaw several times to hve my car serviced, and would not want to take my car anywhere else. This organization is well tooled in every department. My only hope is that Garber's can continue to operate as they are now.
Jan Zlotnik
Sterling Heights, Mi. 48314
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Renee McGregor
2009/06/08 15:44:34
It is very hard to understand why Buick would be willing to terminate their association with Garber Management. If Garber Buick were not a successful dealership or were operating in the red, it might be more readily understood...I certainly hope GM will reconsider their decision.
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Jerry
2009/06/08 15:42:23
What a wonderful organization Garber Buick is and what a wonderful supporter of the entire Saginaw Community this organization is. Garber has always been the biggest booster of the Buick label and the GM company. Now, when we need them the most, GM is turning their back on Mr. Garber.
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Patricia
2009/06/08 15:30:43
Garber Buick is an asset to the GM Corporation. In order to survive a company should want to keep its assets and build upon that foundation.
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Mary Hart
2009/06/08 15:21:31
Garber Buick and their other GM dealerships have been a mainstay in the Saginaw Bay Regional Area for many many years. They are known for their excellent customer service and for the hundreds of jobs they have created and maintained over the years.
I am particularly impressed with the Garber Family's devotion to the Region. From the Saginaw Spirit, to The Children's Museum, to their support of leadership development, their support and leadership has been phenominal. I am a Midland resident and am not specifically in touch with many of their local programs. I became vitally aware of some of their endeavors while a participant in the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance Leadership Program.
Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland have embarked on a huge regional effort to promote our region as a "destination" in Michigan. Shutting down Garber Buick, or any of their other dealerships will create a devastating set back to our entire Region! Please reconsider and allow Garber to do the good work for this area that they have become famous for!
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Carmen J. Pasek
2009/06/08 15:10:25
The news of General Motors decision to eliminate the Garber Buick franchise is just shocking. Closing the longest standing Buick dealership in this country would be a huge loss to our community. No one embraces loyalty, commitment, excellence more than Dick Garber. He is a big part of Saginaw. There is no one in this community that puts people and employees first.
GM needs to reconsider their decision to take away Garber Buicks franchise.
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Doug & Tamara Dangelo
2009/06/08 15:08:14
Garber Buick is a role model to all local buisnesses as it has been well established for over 100 years, with their high quality reputation and rock solid customer service. This is the type of buisness General Motors should want to keep their doors open for at least another 100 years.
Doug & Tamara Dangelo
Freeland Michigan
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Karla
2009/06/08 15:07:09
There are many reasons why Garber Buick in Saginaw Michigan should remain, and only a limited amount of reasons why they should close. I think some decisions are made to be reviewed and in same cases, reversed. I hope GM will take another look at the overall dealership standing and reconsider their decision to remove Buick from Garber and Saginaw.
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Drs. Ronald and Sussan Bays
2009/06/08 15:05:14
We have known the Garber family and employees for years. I don't think that a company like GM could as for a better business model to market and sell it's products. I have never met a more honest and trustworthy auto company than theirs. We need this company in mid michigan as a successful and prosperous entity and GM needs them even more if they want to get back on track. The Garber name means quality and success.
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David Birkenmeyer
2009/06/08 14:59:06
I'm very disappointed to hear about your potential closing. I don't know why GM would choose to close such a fine dealership. You have always treated me and my family professionally and performed fair and honest work.
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Carrie Holzhei
2009/06/08 14:55:49
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Mr. LaNeve,
Hearing the news that Garber Buick may close was devastating. It takes me back to when GM made the decision to close Fisher Body in Flint, MI in 1987. As a child & grandchild of employees of that facility, I remember the heartbreak & uncertainty it brought to that area. Growing up in the south side of Flint all of my friend’s in the neighborhood had family that worked at Fisher #1. We lived in a nice middle class area that GM help build & where there was a sense of community. Eventually, my family got transferred throughout the United States when Fisher body shut its doors & we had to move out of our tight knit neighborhood. I’ve been by the old neighborhood over the years & it still gives me a lump in my throat just driving through it. It is no longer the same area where your kids would play outside until the street lights came on & an employee of GM could walk to work because it was safe to do so. It is now an area I feel unsafe in & that breaks my heart. I think of the Garber Buick Flagship located on State St. here in my hometown of Saginaw, MI. It is a beautiful piece of Saginaw history within walking distance of my own home that I share with my husband & two small children. We have always been treated like we are truly part of a family when dealing with the Garber Organization. The Garber name is synonymous with Respect, Loyalty, Community & Integrity. I think of the 60 plus employees at Garber Buick & their families-what decisions will they need to make due to the potential closing of Garber Buick? They most likely will be forced to make the decision to leave Saginaw, MI to find gainful employment elsewhere. Will the hometown of my children’s childhood become what my hometown as a child has become? That is very possible. Garber Buick stands as a landmark in Saginaw & is a cornerstone of this community. Dick Garber believes in this community, invests in this community & makes you proud to be a part of the Spirit of Saginaw. Mr. LaNeve, we have rolled with the punches for many years with GM & our people & towns have suffered enough. I am demanding that Garber Buick carry on business as usual for the next 102 years & beyond so that my children do not have to look back at their hometown & remember how it use to be. Thank you for your time.
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Jen Zehnder
2009/06/08 14:53:15
Garber Buick is more than a car dealership here. Dick Garber and his family have supported our community for as long I can remember.
Garber Buick has accomplished something very difficult for a car dealership; they have built trust in a community; Trust built by 100 years of exceptional service and investing in our future.
It is a shame that they have spent 100 years building a name for Buick in Saginaw and now it may be taken from them.
I hope GM will reconsider. Buick belongs to Garber!
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karol
2009/06/08 14:50:50
Mark LaNave
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
I am writing to urge you to reconsider pulling the Buick Franchise from Garber Buick in Saginaw, Michigan. My extended family, friends and I are still in shock that GM would even consider closing down Garber Buick.
Of course those of you at the top probably don’t even know about Garber Buick, Richard Garber, his father or Grandfather, Saginaw, Michigan or any of the history of the Garber family. Let me assure you that In Mid-Michigan and beyond, Garber IS Buick. Yes, Buick is a wonderful product....however my family and friends don’t just buy Buicks or GM cars because of their loyalty to the GM brand. They buy “The Package.” By this I mean that the loyalty is to Garber as well as the product line and the exceptional staff and service Garber Buick provides along with the purchase of a vehicle. If you think that anyone who sells a Buick (or any GM vehicle) can provide the same trust, honesty, integrity, follow through, service, reliability and dependability as Garber Buick, GM truly doesn’t know their customers.
The commitment to customers, GM and the entire region of communities by the Garber family is phenomenal...although Dick Garber and his family have never flaunted it. The family has always been the first to provide support to the community. They have always been first class citizens and our communities would be hard pressed to find a better corporate partner. What happens to our entire region if Garber Buick doesn’t exist? Do you have any concept of how involved Garber Buick and the Garber family is involved in our area? Do you even care? We’ll soon find out. Surely there must be a way to align other of GM’s brands with Buick and retain the Garber Buick location. It would be wonderful for potential customers to provide the kind of expertise and service to another GM brand that Garber is known for. If GM holds so little value in the well earned reputation and customer service satisfaction of Garber Buick, then all of our loyalties to GM need to be re-evaluated.
Karol Ruppel
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Robert Taylor
2009/06/08 14:32:35
I have been buying GM products since 1970 (Nova 350 Rally Sport) from many different places. However since 2001 i have purchased 3 cars from Garber Buick in Saginaw and would not think of buying anywhere else. Why would GM think of closing their number 1 in sales Buick sales?????
Maybe I will start to think about another type of car if Garber closes. I was always loyal to GM but if they do not show loyalty why should I????
Dick Herzog was my saleman and is great. he has sold me my last three cars. Everyone at Garber (sale-service-used cars-finance) have treated me great. Thanks to them all.
Shame on GM.
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Mitch
2009/06/08 14:30:56
Our family would like to thank Garber Buick and Dick Garber for the fine job they do in selling and servicing the vehicles they sell. They have performed much community service and the closure of their dealership would be a substantial loss to our community. Please reconsider your decision GM.
Mitch
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Katrina Marenich
2009/06/08 14:28:11
Wow! We heard the news last week about the Garber Buick store closing, and I have to say I'm still in shock! I THINK GM IS MAKING A HUGE MISTAKE. Not only is Michigan in trouble, BUT WHY WOULD THEY DO THIS TO A COMPANY THAT HAS BEEN AROUND FOR SO LONG. Seriously, do some research on the Garber Automotive Group, I have never heard a bad comment on their company. Plus they give back so much to the community.
General Motors, Please reconsider your decision.
Thank you
Katrina Marenich
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Jodi Frank
2009/06/08 14:25:11
I'm in the auto auction industry and with all of the closings in the news daily the one that shocked ALL in my industry most was Garber Buick. It's the leader, icon, foundation and role-model for dealerships everywhere. Garber as a customer is one of the most respected and honest customers we have. After reading some of the comments, the one that sticks out to me is Mr. Martin Zehnder of Frankenmuth. He's a man with a heavy weight and battle of his own in this business but took the time to try to help out Garber.
Don't let a leader die! True role-models w/integrity like the Garber Group are almost non-existant these days.
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Rhonda Spencer
2009/06/08 14:20:07
I can proudly say that I am an employee of the Garber Management Group. I have never worked for any other company that cares so much about the employees, their families and the community as much as Garber. And, this all starts at the top with Dick Garber himself. He has very stong beliefs about how to run his companies and treat his employees, and he gives back to the city of Saginaw more than any other business owner here. Garber Buick is and has always been one of the top Buick dealers around. Shame on you GM for even thinking about closing Garber Buick. My family has always purchased from Garber, and always will. If they don't have your line, then we will buy what they sell.
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Betty Evans
2009/06/08 14:19:32
Please do not close Garber Buick in Saginaw, this dealership has been a great asset to the Saginaw community.
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S/T Nacarato
2009/06/08 14:13:39
We have 3 main reasons for asking that GM reconsider this decision. Firstly,Garber Buick has been a quality employer to more than one family member. Secondly, the contributions Dick Garber and his family have made to Saginaw are too numerous to list. Finally, we have had our vehicles serviced by Garber Buick several times and we have always been satisfied w/their work and their customer service. We fully believe the dealership deserves this opportunity.
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TERRY KEYSER
2009/06/08 14:13:19
To whom it may concern:
Garber Buick in Saginaw, MI has been named as one of the GM stores slated for closing in the GM reorganization. General Motors should not close Garber Buick; instead it should do everything it can to laud Garber and to build it up as example of what iS good about GM and about Buick, which is near the top in initial customer satisfaction according to J. D. Power and Associates in their annual initial quality survey.
While it seems within the rights of GM to terminate any and all agreements with its retailers in the reorganization, it makes no sense to me to terminate the Garber Buick store. The store has dealt Buicks in this area for over 100 years. It is an extremely well known store over a wide territory with an outstanding reputation for service to its customers. Dick Garber has personally managed this store for most of his adult life and to very good ends; his family has been selling Buicks for a century. The store occupies a significant section of real estate on State Street in Saginaw, employs countless people in its organization, and cuts a wide swath of positive relationships across the Saginaw/Bay City/Midland area. Dick Garber has had a significantly positive impact on our area (in part using his success in car sales) in sponsoring the OHL’s Saginaw Spirit hockey team, a multitude of other community ventures for adults and kids, and in donating money and in-kind contributions to area agencies and establishments like schools, townships and the like. Garber Buick, and the Garber name, is synonymous with selfless support of our area.
While I am not privy to sales and other records of this dealership, if one is to believe the promotional materials disseminated by Garber Buick and GM itself, then one has to believe that the store is among the most successful in the GM family for sales and customer satisfaction. To have built the reputation that this dealership has in selling only one line of GM products for this many years, they must be doing nearly everything right.
In a region with a huge population of current and former GM employees, many of whom are of the age that fits the Buick demographic, it would seem a shame to take away this high profile local dealership and sends its potential future and/or former clients to other fairly distant cities in their quest to buy another Buick. It would also seem a shame to shutter a local landmark dealership at a time when GM needs to do as much as possible to preserve (and enhance) market share.
What a wasted opportunity to close Garber Buick at a time when many local GM dealers are losing a portion of their multiple GM lines; when local Chrysler dealerships are being shuttered, leaving one to drive past empty dealer lots with empty space available that formerly housed new and used car lots. All of this visible brand “decay” will do more to advertise the reasons not to buy GM than any amount of positive advertising you could hope to do in the Saginaw region. Saginaw, GM and Buick are struggling—that much is clear presently, although one hopes this is not a permanent condition. An empty, closed Garber Buick will send a huge message to the thousands of drivers who commute past the dealership each day; but I am not sure that is the message you want to send—it would be another signal to all of us that GM is dead.
My wife grew up in a Buick household—her father spent his entire adult life building Buicks in Flint. Many of my family members and my wife’s family members have been or still are active in the GM family. I drive a Tahoe; my wife drives a Pontiac. Before that I drove a GMC and she drove a Saturn. The legacy of GM is strong in our family with many reasons to buy GM. But that, too, may erode as GM shutters the good dealerships with the bad in the sort of decision this seems to be—closing Garber Buick only because it does not sell multiple GM lines.
General Motors should not close Garber Buick. Instead, it should opt to keep Garber Buick open, make it a beacon for the all the reasons that people choose to buy GM (and Buick in particular) especially at Garber, and then seek to cut only dealerships whose performance is such that eliminating them, or a portion of their lines, makes sense for the “new’ GM. A “new” GM without successful dealerships like Garber would soon become an “extinct” GM with no ties left in this area and providing no reason for loyal GM customers to maintain their loyalty. Cutting the Garber Buicks in the GM structure is akin to throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
Terry Keyser
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Carrie Kessel
2009/06/08 14:12:06
Mr. Mark LaNeve June 8, 2009
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle, Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Dear Mr. LaNeve,
I am saddened and dismayed by GM's intent to cease support of Garber Buick; a first class, award winning organization. I do understand the current state of GM's business along with the plethora of difficult tasks at hand but I wholeheartedly disagree with your decision and ask that you please reconsider. It is in times like these that GM can potentially win over lifelong supporters and customers. Times like these can reveal the true character and intent of General Motors. Garber Buick is more than just a dealership. It is a pillar of our community. It is a beacon of hope, pride and progress for Saginaw and far beyond. General Motors will be a better company having the Garber Dealership and specifically Mr. Dick Garber on your team. Align yourself with the BEST, Mr. LaNeve! Align yourself with Garber!! Please reconsider.
Sincerely,
Carrie Mahar Kessel
VP Mahar Tool Supply
A GM Tool Supplier for over 60 Years
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Troy Hiser
2009/06/08 14:11:47
Mr. LaNeve,
The news of General Motors decision to eliminate the Garber Buick franchise has honestly caught me by surprise. It was only months ago that I received the news of Garber Buick being the top selling Buick dealership in the country. This achievement is extremely admirable in this industry and I believe that this type of excellence should be rewarded rather than penalized. We all understand that in the current state of General Motors that difficult decisions must be made. I also understand that several more complicated decisions will follow as the restructuring of General Motors transpires. We cannot fault anyone at this point for protecting the best interests of GM as a global organization, but we can as a community offer you and your team rationale of why we believe an enormous error has occurred in your decision process.
I have read the letters in support of the Garber Buick franchise but there is much more that you and your team need to consider as you re-evaluate your decision. The Garber name represents much more than just Buick. Economic Growth, Community Development, and most importantly, Loyalty just to name a few. The Garber family has served as upstanding citizens to Saginaw and surrounding areas in many other verticals than just automotive. Richard Garber supports hundreds of individuals with their livelihoods and at the same time instills value’s and motivation for success in the community.
Richard Garber is a leader and has played a colossal role in the preservation of Saginaw Michigan. He too has made difficult decisions in past years, one that you should have knowledge of was moving his Buick Dealership to a deteriorating Saginaw Township. A stretch of State Street which in the 80’s and 90’s was a thriving stretch of real-estate that fell subject to a sluggish economy. While wood covered business windows Mr. Garber seized the opportunity to built a state of the art facility which has become one of your largest Buick stores in the country. Since the construction of the new Garber Buick, we have seen many other business’s open and prosper. My point is simply that Mr. Garber is indirectly responsible for so much more than owning Garber Buick, He is responsible for the re-building of a town that was losing its morale and headed in the wrong direction.
People don’t buy cars from dealerships, people buy cars from people. People don’t necessarily buy a Buick, People buy a car from Garber Buick. Garber Buick is a household name and has had a proven track record in the community and across the country for over 100 years. The decision to eliminate Garber Buick will resonate in many more ways than one. This decision will prove that hard work does not pay off and that loyalty and dedication are ineffective. It will give the impression that GM and Buick have simply given up faith in everyone that has helped build its very foundation. It deeply pains me to see such a concrete success story come to a close like this.
I believe I speak for thousands when I say that your decision would be doing a huge disservice to the Garber Buick legacy, loyal hard working employee’s and most importantly, a city that has supported the Growth & Success of the Buick nameplate. I sincerely hope that you and your team base your final conclusion of Garber Buick on facts and statistics as I know that an entire community is relying on you to make the right decision. Thank you for your time.
Troy Hiser
Royal Oak, MI
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Keisha
2009/06/08 14:10:03
My family has been purchasing cars from the Garber Buick family for as long as I can remember. I can remember going to the showroom with my Aunt and looking for our next new car. Garber Buick is not only an important part of the community, it is an important part of my family! Though GM is going through a difficult stage, we have been devoted consumers of GM products through Garber. Please consider all the good that Garber Buick has offered the Saginaw community and how this will effect people in our community. At times, you have look beyond the numbers and look at what is best for the people. I pray that GM allows Garber Buick to continue providing wonderful services to our community and many others. Thank you.
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Eric
2009/06/08 13:58:49
It is a shame that General Motors is even considering closing the Garber Buick store in Saginaw. The effect of closing this dealership would be devastating to Saginaw County and the Garber family. I know that Garber Buick places an emphasis on customer serice and Garber Buick has been one of the leaders in this area for Buick for years. I also understand that Garber Buick is has been one of the most sucessful Buick dealers in the country. It would be terrible to close a highly sucessful dealership that has served customers in the Saginaw area for over 100 years.
Please General Motors, reconsider your decision.
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Phil Moon
2009/06/08 13:55:40
I bought my first Buick at Garbers 53 years ago. I have bought other cars from dealers in Saginaw and the Saginaw area. Garbers has always been the Best of the Best in every area including Community. I know there has been a lot of pressure put on decision making at G.M. Mistakes can be made by anyone. I'm sure someone made a mistake with Garber Buick. Our community and all Buick drivers need Garbers.
Thank you,
Phil Moon
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Peter D. Boyse
2009/06/08 13:54:26
When I was growing up in Saginaw during the 40s, 50s and 60s, I remember that Garber Buick was always a name you could trust for quality and value in both sales and service. Dick Garber has continued to provide and improve upon that reputation for quality and value. Given Garber Buick's fine reputation and the data that demonstrate that the Garber Buick dealership continues to be a one of General Motor's shining stars, it is difficult to understand the rationale that GM is using to close dealerships. My hope is that the same leadership that put General Motors in bankruptcy court is not making the decisions of which dealerships to close.
Dick Garber is not only an astute businessman, he is also an asset to our community and has demonstrated time and again his leadership ability and his care and support for the Great Lakes Bay Region community. I strongly support Dick's efforts to keep Garber Buick open and I urge General Motors to reconsider their decision.
Sincerely,
Dr. Peter D. Boyse, President Emeritus, Delta College
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Sheryl Cunnings
2009/06/08 13:53:40
My husband has worked for Garber Buick for over 18 years in the service department. Over the years he has become very familiar with the large group of repeat customers that come into Garbers for sales and service. Our own family has purchased many cars from Garbers. Many customers that have purchased their cars from other dealers have come in an said that they would only have their cars serviced at Garbers because they trust them and can always be assured of 100% customer satisfaction when they have received their car back. Garber Buick is the only dealership in Saginaw that I have never heard a bad comment about. If the buick line gets moved to any other dealer in Saginaw I will never purchase another Buick. We believe in Dick Garber and Garber Buick and know that he will do everything in his power to assure that Garbers on State Street will surrive another 100 years! GM please reconsider this decision!
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Tom Clark
2009/06/08 13:46:10
It is extremely difficult to discern, let alone understand, any logic behind the announcement of Garber Buick in Saginaw being forced to close. While every dealership has a story to tell, few could begin to tell a story the likes of which Garber Buick in Saginaw has to tell. Let's start with the beginning, no not just Garber Buick's beginning but BUICK'S beginning. Back to the early 1900's when the fledgling Buick Motor Cars needed some way to distribute and sell their automobiles- Garber was their Guy - pun intended. Through the years the Garber family has made it much more than just an automobile dealership. They made it a community asset sponsoring hundreds of community projects with thousands upon thousands of dollars from the Garber Tennis courts right up through the present day Saginaw Spirit Hockey. In addition hundreds of Saginaw area families have enjoyed a slice of the American Dream because of the income their job at Garber Buick provided. At the same time Garber Buick was serving the Saginaw Area Community they were also serving Buick Motor Divison with outstanding customer service. Look at your own records Mr Henderson, Garber Buick of Saginaw has consistently been a sales leader not just in Michigan but across the United States. Check your customer service indexes for all the years you measured dealer customer service, Garber Buick is at or near the top, month in month out, year after year. Before you further jeopardize the chances of a General Motors recovery, you must seriously reconsider the decision to close Garber Buick and the criteria you used to decide which dealerships will close. For over 100 years the people of Saginaw have gone to Garber Buick for their new Buicks and the service those Buicks needed. Do really think Saginaw folks are going to go Bay City, Frankenmuth, or Flint to buy their Buick and keep it serviced? Can Buick really afford to give up three or four generations of loyal Garber Buick customers? Remember Mr. Henderson, loyalty is a two way street. If General Motors and Buick don't see the need to be loyal to Saginaw, perhaps the Garber dealership could be converted into a Mercedes, BMW or Infiniti store. Last I heard those companies were looking for more market share...
Tom Clark
1740 Champagne Drive
Saginaw, MI 48604
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Kristine Beckrow
2009/06/08 13:38:36
Very shocked GM would even consider shutting down one of the top rated Buick dealerships in the country. GM bases their dealerships on the customer satisfaction index. GM should reference their very own dealer report card for Garber. The customer satisfaction level should be enough in itself to keep Garber Buick open.
Garber has always been, "The New GM". Garber has always ensured customers the best service no matter what capacity they had visited the dealership.
General Motors will definitely be doing a dis-service to loyal GM customers by shutting down the Garber location.
Thank you, Kristine
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K. S.
2009/06/08 13:28:50
I know so many people that travel out of town just to come to Garber Buick. They will not go anywhere else because they can’t get the same service as they do at Garber Buick. GM don’t push these people away from your line by closing one of the best BUICK dealerships in the country. Rethink this decision and think if this is really a good decision.
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Tom Mayan, Sr.
2009/06/08 13:27:44
As a member of a family business established in 1915 in the community of Merrill we can certainly relate, but not understand, GM's reasoning for withdrawing the Buick line from the Garber facility on State St. in Saginaw. The Garber family is and has been much more than a local business, they have been one of the backbones of Saginaw. We certainly hope and pray that GM will reconsider and allow this state of the art facility to remain as a very valuable dealership to GM and even more so an important assett of the communinty.
The Mayan Family
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Mike Stelter
2009/06/08 13:26:25
Pretend you are making the decision to close one of your dealerships in your business model and you look at Garber Management Group’s information.
· One of the top dealerships in the country for sales
· One of the best for customer satisfaction in the country
· Top notch Management Group
· 100% commitment to the community in which Dick lives
· People buy Buicks because of Dick Garber not because it’s a Buick
· Family owned for 102 years
· Knowing this franchise with Garber will help General Motors in the future.
Your decision is to close Garber Buick…………….Excuse me! Would you please repeat that. I thought you said your decision was to close Garber Buick.
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Ken Pacholka
2009/06/08 13:25:54
Garber Buick has been an icon in mid Michigan many, many years It would be a shame to lose this icon. Keep Garber Buick.
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Mary Huyck
2009/06/08 13:13:50
If loyalty means anything to GM and I hope that it does, they will reconsider closing the Buick Flagship store. Many points and stories (too numerous to mention) prove the loyalty of the Garber family and the Buick dealership to GM. How can General Motor's expect the people of Mid-Michigan to be loyal to them if they are going to close a dealership that has proven itself time and again to be a shinning example of how a dealship should be run. It will be a sad day not only for the Saginaw community, but for General Motor's too; they can't sell Buicks if they lose their number one dealership.
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Dave and Debbi Albrough
2009/06/08 13:10:24
It is a absolute travesty that GM would even considered closing the Garber Buick dealership. It's not just the dealership....Dick Garber and the Garber group have done so much for the Saginaw community over the years. It is just inexcusable that GM would even consider this!
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Rick Mackintosh
2009/06/08 13:07:06
Mr. Garber,
I have been employed at Garber Management Group (Sunrise Chevrolet) for just under 5 years. It has been a great learning experience. It is sad to hear that GM is trying to close the doors of what is the FOUNDATION of what GM has become. Garber Buick has been in business over 100 years. There was a time when Garber Buick picked GM off it's feet when times were tough. That goes to show what kind of company values Garber Management Group has. It would be nice if this time GM returned a favor to a 100 year old friend. I hope GM realizes that if they move forward with closing the store, they will have destroyed the foundation on which this great empire has built it's success on. With that being said let us keep this foundation and build a bigger and better GM.
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Derrick Harge
2009/06/08 13:02:06
As a customer of Garber Buick/Garber Nissan-Hyundai for the past 24 years, it's with extreme disappointment that General Motors has seen fit to snatch Garber Buick's franchise. The Garber Buick company is an extremely important part of the Saginaw community. They've been totally involved in the philanthropic rebirth of Saginaw as well as providing hundreds of jobs. From a business standpoint, Garber Buick is a leading Buick dealer in Michigan, so I don't see the logic of closing this dealership. Most people from the Saginaw area will have to drive at least 15 miles to the nearest Buick dealership. Not sure how that's going to help people become new Buick owners. I hope General Motors decides that the Garber Buick dealership is too important a dealer for not only the Saginaw community, but also for General Motors to lose.
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JOSE S MARTINEZ
2009/06/08 12:57:46
Hi my name is Jose S. Martinez. I have worked in the car business for about 11 years & after I left my 1st dealership I found out that in our industry who you work for makes all the difference in the world. I work for a co. named Garber Management Group. They are based of Saginaw MI. I work for one of their dealerships in the west suburbs of Chicago Ill, our commitment to customer satisfaction & employee satisfaction is there main concern. Everything else just follows. Every single employee knows the Garber history & how we got to where we are standing now. going back in time there was a man by the name of Guy Garber. he was one of the 1st sales reps if this is the right way to phrase ..but the point is the he was selling buicks, gm`s product & i can only assumed that he likes & trusted the product. that is besides the fact that is a american made product. When we got the news that our Buick dealer was one of the stores affected by gm`s dedication of dealers going to be no longer supported by gm was very surprising not only for the fact that co. been standing & standing tall with all the areas that according to gm we need to have going forward such as csi volume & company`s stability. not only they have all this but more they have the vision & the potential to keep there door open for business & doing business the right way..with all this i can only hope gm will consider keeping Garber Buick operating the same way they have done for so long...
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Lori Lillie
2009/06/08 12:56:13
I have attended BNI meetings held at Garber Buick as well as had my vehicle serviced there. It is a beautiful facility with a caring staff. The Garber Automotive Group has done a wonderful job of grooming leaders in our business community. I have heard Dick Garber speak at several important events and know him as a key leader in the mid Michigan area. I have had the opportunity to meet Kevin Parker, and his story of working for this organization is an amazing one. Laura Biggins has been very active in our Women In Leadership group (www.wilmidmichigan.com). Kevin and Laura are important leaders in our community. It is my impression after having worked in the small business community for the past two years that Garber is in the business of creating leaders in addition to everything they do for the automotive industry. Knocking out one of the pillars of our business community would lead to monumental consequences.
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Sheri
2009/06/08 12:53:30
I was shocked to hear of the decision of GM to close Garber Buick. I could not believe my ears. Here is a business that is a cornerstone of our community. As many people have noted, they were rated the top in the country just this past Spring. It this decision is not reversed, this will cause unbelievable consequences for this area and for Buick. This is such a reputable company, I would think that GM would want to keep them in business and continue to do the fantastic work that they do currently. They are first class all the way.
Please reconsider your decision GM.
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michael j.gomez
2009/06/08 12:43:20
I've been a resident of saginaw my whole life,my father worked for GM for over 30yrs!,we he always drove a Chevy and my mother a Buick, we even had a Caddilac, but mom always loved her Buicks which is what she is drining now purchesed from Garbers. One of my fondest memerorys as kid growin up in Saginaw was driving threw Garber Buick when it was located on E.Gennesee, with my dad checking out the new Biucks to see which one they were going to get next for my mom.This dealership has been a staple of this community!, Mr. Garber has givin so much to this community when everyone else has turned there backs on the city of Saginaw, he has always been there!, it's my hope that they reconsider closing Garbers! 100yrs that says it all!!!!
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Patti Steinman
2009/06/08 12:42:49
I am writing to ask GM to reconsider closing Garber Buick. The trickle down effect from this maneuver will reach far and wide in the Great Lakes Bay Region. We need them! Don't do it! RETHINK your thoughts, PLEASE.
Proud owner of a Garber Buick Lucerne!
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Rev. Dr. Robert L. Emrich
2009/06/08 12:42:10
To Dick Garber and to all GM executives who have any say in the closing of Garber Buick State Street Saginaw, MI: I was more than shocked to hear that GM plans to shut down Garber Buick on State Street. I find this too hard to believe. How one shuts down one of the top selling dealers of Buick autos for 102 years. Garber is respected in Saginaw. That respect even exceeds the respect people have for the Buick nameplate. People in my congregation are beside themselves believing that Garber is the best place to buy a Buick. Their service is absolutely fabulous. Also the Garber family in the Saginaw community is a name that has won the respect and confidence of people from all walks of life. Please reverse this decision that could not have anything to do with common sense or decency. Sincerely, Dr. Robert L. Emrich pastor/head of staff First Presbyterian Church of Saginaw Michigan.
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Bob & Wanda Gilman
2009/06/08 12:31:04
We have done business with the Garbers since the 70's. Their service has been top notch ALWAYS. They CARE about their product and it shows to the customer. Why do you think we returned again and again. If GM continues with the closing of Garber Buick, that is sorely needed in Saginaw, MI then you may as well close up shop. We are on the verge of NOT buying GM at all if this continues!!!!
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Tom Toporski
2009/06/08 12:22:41
Garber Buick has been an example of excellence to my friends and family for numerous years. Their service and sales departments have been the best I have ever used in the Tri-City area. Community involvement is also greatly appreciated. I hope GM re-thinks the closing of this fabulous dealership.
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W. L. Case and Company
2009/06/08 12:20:29
Our family and company were greatly disappointed to learn that GM has tentatively designated the Garber Buick franchise in Saginaw as a dealership to be closed. This decision must have been made with only superficial review and we strongly urge that GM reconsider.
W. L. Case & Company has conducted business in Saginaw since 1881. We thus have a long-standing relationship with the Garbers, as well as a common knowledge of the type of commitment a community such as Saginaw deserves. Cities like Saginaw do not thrive without businesses and individuals such as the Garber people. They are extremely knowledgeable about the Buick product which is the subject of a prospective sale. Their sales department is professional in both appearance and assistance. The service department is top-notch.
Dick Garber exemplifies, as the hockey team is so named, the true “Spirit” of Saginaw. When the community needed an event to bolster the Dow Event Center, the Garbers responded with the Saginaw Spirit hockey franchise of the Ontario Hockey Association. When there was a civic need for a youth-education center, the Garbers donated the property for the Saginaw Children’s Museum. In a community that represents a significant loyalty to GM product sales, particularly Buick sales, the Garbers made sure that Saginaw received a derivative benefit from their prosperity. They are an asset to the community, one that generates much goodwill for GM. Not only does Saginaw need Garber Buick, General Motors needs Garber Buick.
Terminating the Garber Buick franchise is obviously detrimental to the Garbers; but it would be disastrous to the Saginaw area and GM on a personal, financial, and community level. As we all face these many challenges today, it is important to remember that Garber Buick in its 100 years has weathered the nation’s financial ups and downs and has proven itself capable of facing the current one. Please reconsider the ill-advised decision to revoke the Garber Buick franchise. Saginaw has been a very strong supporter of GM products and deserves this consideration.
The Case Family
W.L. Case & Company
Funeral Directors
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joe schultz
2009/06/08 12:19:14
i cannot understand why gm wants to shut down a dealership that has been around for 100 years. i think that they should shut down dealerships that have not been around for a long time and that are not as successful as garber. garber has done a lot to help out the comunity also. please reconsider shutting down garber.
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Donald M. Mazany
2009/06/08 12:08:34
My first reaction to the loss of Garbger Buick was one of disappointment, which turned to anger at GM/Buick for the decision to pull the franchise. We have owned a Riviera, two Park Avenues, a LaCrosse and currently a Lucerne. In addition, because of the par excellence service and treatment, we also own a Suburban through then Garber Midland Chevrolet dealership (owned Suburbans since 1976). At this point in time, my gut feeling is to not buy any GM products in the future without Garber's help. I put service and the human element first, although I also want a quality vehicle. I have dealt with 9 dealers in my adult lifetime and the service and consideration given to me has always been superior at Garbers compared to my other experiences... I don't want to drive out of town for a Buick and I certainly am not willing to put up with the treatment I have experienced at other dealerships. If Garber cannot service me and I continue to be a loyal American car buyer, Ford will have my business.
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Denise
2009/06/08 12:08:32
I can't believe that GM is going to close Garber Buick (an icon in Saginaw) and they still want to us buy American. We can't afford to buy anything, let alone American, if we don't have the jobs. Keep Garber Buick open!
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Mike Holzhei
2009/06/08 12:04:42
When I graduated from college I had opportunities to move to other states but I chose Saginaw because I have strong ties to the area. I became a GM/Delphi employee by choice. Dick Garber also has made choices over his lifetime to strengthen his involvement in the community. Whether it is moving his offices to downtown Saginaw or supporting a local hockey team he consistently makes choices that are in the best interest of Saginaw. Losing Garber Buick would be a great disservice to Saginaw and I strongly urge GM to reconsider.
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A.B.
2009/06/08 11:53:14
I am writing to express my desire that Garber Buick remain as a Buick dealership in the Saginaw, MI. area, Garber has been with GM over 100 years and they should be part of the "New GM", not discarded as a liability of the old GM. Garber's reputation for service is #1 and the loss of Garber Buick would be devastating for all.
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Richard Resler Sr.
2009/06/08 11:45:54
My wife and I have been customer of Garber's since 1976 when first moved to Saginaw to establish my Orthodontic Practice. We have continued to be loyal customers up to now, not because of the GM products, but because of the wonderful service we received from Garber and our loyalty to our GM patient families. We think its a travesty that GM is closing Garber Buick. Obviously, their loyalty to their customers does not reciprocate with the customers loyalty to them.
How does closing one of the most productive dealerships in the country assist GM in sales? We truly think that GM must have its head in the sand. No wonder they are bankrupt! If GM plans on truly turning things around they can start in Saginaw by reopening Garber Buick.
Sincerely,
Dr.and Mrs. Richard Resler Sr.
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G.T.Sands
2009/06/08 11:40:55
Garber Buick has been a mainstay in Saginaw County for as long as I can remember. For the most part there are three reasons for this. The first is the service one receives when he or she is looking for a new car. The second is the service he/she receives when needing to have work done on their automobile (either under warranty or not). Finally, Garber has remained in business for as long as they have because of the work its owners and its employees offer to the entire of Saginaw County. To close this dealership would be devastating to the tri-county area and especially Saginaw County. Its absence would be a great loss to the area and only add to the astronomically high unemployment in the State of Michigan. Garber Buick's closing would have absolutely no effect on the GM bankruptcy, and it is imperative that GM rethink its position and keep this dealership open.
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Theda Wallace
2009/06/08 11:39:00
Please keep the location in Saginaw, Mi open!!!
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Dawn Valle
2009/06/08 11:33:50
Gentlemen, I would strongly urge you to reconsider the closing of Garber Buick of Saginaw. Garber has over 100 years of excellent service to the area both in automotive service and community service. This is a third generation business and it was always said, of G.S. Garber, that his word was his bond. I would that GM's would be also. You cannot sell cars without dealers!
Martin and Dawn Vallee
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Susie Nielsen
2009/06/08 11:29:44
I cannot understand how pulling the franchise of a successful dealership will benefit GM. It will certainly not benefit Saginaw. There are loyal Buick buyers who would have gone back to Garber to buy their next vehicle; many of them will now shop around and may end up buying a non-GM vehicle. This is not a small dealership in the middle of nowhere; it is a successful dealership in a small town. GM needs to realize that small-town America does not operate like metro-Detroit. We like to have personal relationships with the people we do business with.
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Cammy and Brent Domine
2009/06/08 11:29:08
Dear GM - we were very sad to hear of the news reporting GM had choosen to close the Garber Buick store. I am a loyal customer of GM, BECAUSE OF DICK GARBER AND HIS COMPANY. The loyalty and trust I have is with the Garber Buick, not GM. If he is no longer a buick dealer, I am no longer a buick driver. Please consider this, you supply a product and Garber buick provides a quality service that has amassed a great following of loyal customers for 100 years. This is a credit only to Dick Garber and his employees. When you consider this and the long and loyal service of Garber Family to GM, your decision simply flawed and should be reversed.
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Karnitha
2009/06/08 11:27:33
This is very sad that because GM is in a hardship it is willing to let go one of its most profitable locations. I would like to say to GM that you want the people to stand by you, you have to return the favor and stand by the dealership who stood by you.
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Burt and Linda Fettig
2009/06/08 11:23:10
We were surprised and disappointed to learn of the GM decision to drop Buick from the long established dealership of the Garber Automotive Group. What a shame for our community! The Garber Family has exhibited a strong leadership influence in our community for over a century.
Most recently the Garber effort has included the establishment of the Saginaw Sprit Hockey Program and was instrumental in the development of the Mid-Michigan Children's Museum. Saginaw desperately needs strong leaders and supporters such as the Garber family.
It appears that the Garber loyality to GM has not been recognized. We hope that this decision can be revisited for a better result for the Garber family and their employees as well as our community.
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Philip A. Serier
2009/06/08 11:20:59
Integrity, loyalty, commitment, excellence...all virtues General Motors courts, but of late, have proven elusive for the once great automaker. Garber Buick has truly embraced and exemplified all of these for more than 100 years...it seems time for GM to look in their backyard for a good example of what loyalty and excellence look like!
Before the dawn of General Motors, Guy Garber and Billy Durant were selling Buicks in Saginaw, MI...Garber and Buick have had a great and profitable relationship through two world wars, a great depression, many recessions, and the current economic disaster. Where is GM's commitment now?
The decision not to renew the contract for Garber Buick can't be made on poor performance; Garber has been and remains one of the most revered dealerships in the nation! It can't be made on a lack of commitment; Garber and GM have remained committed to the relationship for more than 100 years! It can't be made on a lack of integrity; Garber Buick has and always will stand proudly behind their product and service! It can't be made on a lack of involvement in the community; Garber has given much back to this community! So what has lead us to this point? Stand alone store v. a multi-brand store? Politics?
Whatever the answer, it defies reason. Giving GM the benefit of the doubt, perhaps the bottom line proves the dealership should close...if that's the case, I hail from Missouri!
This community owes a great deal to the Garber Management Group and it is comforting to see all of the positive comments in support of Garber Buick. We can only sit by and hold our breath while GM executives, once again, play a dangerous game of chicken with Saginaw's future!
Philip A. Serier
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Dave Shooltz
2009/06/08 11:16:28
Dick Garber and his entire organization are CLASS from his dealerships, to his unwavering community support to the Saginaw area, to his employees. I have been in banking for over 25 years and can confidently say that I have never witnessed a better run organization where everyone understands the total meaning of customer satisfaction. To make a decision to take away Buick from Garber and this region, from their Flagship dealership simply could not have been done with a lot of forethought. Please reconsider this decision or the implications can not be good for the GM organization. If Garber is not selling GM products from this wonderful location they will be selling a competitive brand and that will simply mean less GM sales in this market due to their commitment to customer service and the strong following they command in this region.
Dave
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Gerald Niederquell
2009/06/08 11:16:10
As a GM employee of many years, I have always supported my town, my country and the company I work for. I’ve dealt with Garber Buick over the years and their reputation for service has always been #1. The loss of Garber Buick would be devastating for all in Saginaw. I hope that you will reconsider and let Garber Buick keep selling cars in Saginaw.
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Linda Jeffries
2009/06/08 11:15:47
Garber Automotive has been an industry leader and a pillar in the community for over 100 years. My parents have been purchasing Buicks from Garber since 1952.
GM needs to reconsider their decision to take away Garber Buicks franchise and present them with a new franchise for life recognizing their outstanding dedication, commitment and service both to their community and to GM.
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ron wandzel
2009/06/08 11:14:27
your making a big mistake garber buick is the best dealership not only in the tri citys but all the surrounding counties I was a claims adjustor for AAA ins. and their wasnt a better or more honest dealership.then garber buick also look at the longevity of their employees which you dont see in todays world car salemen who worked there for over 30 years ,mechanics & body shop personnal with over 30 years. of service and customers do notice that PLEASE reconsider & keep garber buick as our buick dealer . loyal friend of garbers ron wandzel.
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Ed Schneller
2009/06/08 11:10:41
Garber Buick has excelled in all areas of business. They have a first class sales staff and world class sevice. No other GM dealer has that kind of reputation in the Saginaw area. Closing Garber would cause GM to loose sales.
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Robert & Mary Ruppel
2009/06/08 11:09:27
We are very upset that the Garber Buick franchise has been pulled. We have been satisfied customers since the 60's.
Service at the Buick store is exceptional. We have been treated like family ever since we purchased our first Buick.
We do not understand how one of the bust Buick dealerships in the US has been selected by General Motors to close their doors. How can any company hope to stay in business when the close one of their best dealerships?
We certainly hope that General Motors will reconsider.
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Kim Phillips Farm Bureau Insurance
2009/06/08 11:09:17
I can't believe a company is trying to shut down the best dealership in America. A dealership that has always made money for GM and is top notch all the way.
Anytime you visit there location you are taken care of with friendly and knowledgable people. That's why they're the BEST!!!!
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Amy Fick
2009/06/08 11:06:17
I cannot begin to express how disappointed I am in the GM’s decision not to renew Garber Buick’s contract in 2010. I struggle to make sense of the decision to close one of the top performing GM Dealerships in the country.While I’m sure the closing was based on careful research and consideration, there are many other things that can’t be measured by numbers. Whether it be the Mid-Michigan Children’s’ Museum, the renovation of the Saginaw YMCA, the Dow Event Center, or any of the hundreds of organizations that Dick is involved in, he gives 100% to what he does. He has been the speaker at a number of events I have attended and believes in giving back to the community. He has served as the inaugural speaker for both the Midland Young Professionals and the Saginaw Young Professionals Group, and has volunteered his time and expertise in an effort to recruit and maintain young talented individuals in our community.
His passion extends from his managing the Garber companies to his un-relenting support of the Saginaw Spirit. Dick was a key member of the team that brought the Saginaw Spirit to the Dow Event Center, which created affordable, family friendly entertainment in our community. Without Dick, the Saginaw Spirit never would have come to the Saginaw Valley.
Garber Buick means so much more to our community than selling cars. Garber Buick is synonymous with Community, Philanthropy, Commerce, and Leadership… all of the things a community needs to help it through these trying economic times. Garber Buick has had a very strong presence in our community for 102 years, and we need them to maintain that presence in the Great Lakes Bay Region for the next 100 years.
Keep Garber Buick in Saginaw!
Amy Fick
Saginaw Bay Underwriters.
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Erin
2009/06/08 11:05:54
It disappoints me so to think that Garber Buick could close down. That is a landmark business in this area and has been for over 100 years. I know people who will NOT do business with anyone else and to me, that says something special. The foundation of the Garber Organization is the stellar treatment of its customers. No one is to walk out the door unhappy. To close this store would be a huge mistake for GM. Why would you want to close a top dealership with such a long and successful track record? In reading all the wonderful things that people have to say about Garber Buick and Dick Garber himself, I surely hope that you will reconsider this decision.
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LUCIANO GARCIA
2009/06/08 11:05:46
I WILL LIKE TO SAY . THE THANKS TO. MR. Garber I HAVE AT JOB TO SUPPORT MY FAMILY .. I KNOW THE MR. GARBER ON HIS MANAGEMENT CARES FOR THE EMPLOYEES ON THE CUSTOMER .. NOT JUST SELLING THE CARS HELPING ACHIVING OUR DREAMS AND GOALS ..
KEEP AMERCIA ROLLING ( LUCIANO GARCIA )
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Nathan Hopper
2009/06/08 11:02:48
Garber Buick is an icon of excellence in the Saginaw community and throughout the mid-Michigan region. Quality, service, integrity, and trust are just some of the words that are synonymous with Garber. Add to that a deep measure of philanthropy and good will and you have a brand, dealership, and CEO that GM should be proud to stand behind.
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Dave Adams
2009/06/08 10:58:53
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Mr. LaNeve,
I believe General Motors should reconsider their decision concerning the Garber Buick dealership in Saginaw. I have read that Garber Buick is being eliminated because they only sell the Buick-line, with no regard to sales numbers. If anything, this logic should lead GM to add GMC or Chevrolet to the Garber Buick dealership.
The Garber Buick dealership is important to the economic well-being of the entire Saginaw area. Many new businesses have located themselves near Garber on one of Saginaw counties busiest roads. I fear the closing of Garber could lead to more job loss and empty buildings than just the dealership.
When a business such as Garber Buick, which has been around for generations, is located in your community, they do so much more than provide employment. They support countless projects and charities that make the Saginaw-area a great place to live. Please help keep Saginaw and Michigan a great place to live. Please keep Garber Buick in Saginaw.
Sincerely,
Dave Adams
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M. Wheaton
2009/06/08 10:47:35
Dick Garber is one of the most philanthropic thinking and acting individuals in the community. The GM dealership is an icon here. How does the Garber Buick franchise affect GM's bankruptcy? Taking away the Garber Buick franchise is comparable to putting one more nail in the mid-Michigan coffin. Stop this nonsense, please.
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Kelly Hendrick
2009/06/08 10:44:10
Words cannot express how much Garber Buick means not only to Saginaw, but also to the surrounding areas. After speaking with my grandfather about GM's decision, he shared a story about the days when Garber was the supplier for the Kamm automotive dealership in Reese, where he was born and raised. He could not believe after all of these years, that vitally important and reliable dealership could be put to rest. He is not the only one that feels that way...
Please reconsider the decision and know what a great impact Garber Buick on State Street, along with its owners and workers, has on the Saginaw Community.
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ralph bedtelyon
2009/06/08 10:40:34
I sincerely believe that the l02 years of service to Buick and the top quality of service to this area should allow Dick Garber to continue his work for the future with his Buick franchise. A long time friend and customer. Ralph Bedtelyon
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Sandy Hansen
2009/06/08 10:32:50
As I have talked to different people about Garber Buick, they all agree that is the best dealership in the country and that it should stay in business. Please reconsider your decision and let them be around for another 100 years and continue to be the best.
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Pamela Miller
2009/06/08 10:31:11
I can't believe this is happening to Garber Buick on State Street. I am a loyal buyer of Buicks, but to have to take my buick to any other dealer would change my mind on whether I get a buick or not. I have dealth with this dealer many times over the years and I trust this dealer with my car. If GM is going to make decisions like this, I don't want to be any part of GM. How can you close down a business that is an asset to both GM and to the Saginaw area for so many years? I hope GM management will reverse the decision to terminate Garber Buick on State Street and give this dealer the respect and support it has earned. If this dealer is terminated, I will no longer buy a buick. I will buy a Toyota instead.
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Kay Thompson
2009/06/08 10:27:55
I have always supported GM, buying several GM vehicles. I have bought GM vehicles from four other GM dealers, none of which gave me the service Garber Buick has. Maybe you should look closer at customer reviews and comments for other local dealerships. There is one place that would not even speak to me but literally stepped on my foot to step in front of me to great and shake my husband's hand. Another disappointing visit to a local dealership was when I took my van in for an oil change. When I left, I could barely turn the wheel. I returned to the service department only to have the people laugh in my face. The problem ... they forgot to hook up some hoses or wires that were wrapped around the steering column when I drove. Although this was their mistake, they made me feel terrible. I have never returned. I would NEVER have received this type of treatment from Garber Buick. Last year my 21 year old daughter purchased her first car from Garber Buick. She too, was treated with dignity and respect by everyone. The Garber Buick staff is unique. They respect ALL of their customers. I am very disappointed by GM's decision and hope that you change your mind. Please allow us to continue doing business at the best dealership in the Tri-Cities - Garber Buick.
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Krystal Crosby
2009/06/08 10:24:37
Garber Buick has been a long standing staple in Saginaw County for years and years. Not only are the employees dedicated to their employer, they are very involved in the Community as well.
Garber Buick has given back to the community on various occassions.
Please reconsider your position of terminating Garber Buick of Saginaw. We need this growth to continue within the community.
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David W. Skiendziel
2009/06/08 10:24:05
I am writing to express my desire that Garber Buick remain as a Buick dealership in the Saginaw, MI. area, Garber has been with GM over 100 years and they should be part of the "New GM", not discarded as a liability of the old GM. Garber's reputation for service is #1 and the lose of Garber Buick would be devastating for all.
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Sean Donato
2009/06/08 10:24:04
Hi Dick,
I have been employed by you and Sunrise Chevrolet for just under six years now. Through these years I have seen and heard a lot of great things you do for the community and your employees. This is a great place to work. The people, facility and history of the company are what make this company so succesful. It's hard to believe Chevrolet would want to take away a piece of there history. For as long as I can remember, we base our company by the standards and success of Garber Buick. All we worry about on Saturdays is, " What's Garber Buick doing?". "We need to beat Garber Buick?". I also believe GM has made a mistake and back you 100%. I don't think GM should forget about their roots. Your grandfather was there for GM when they needed them. Now it's time for GM to be there for you. Thanks for the great work enviroment and I wish you the best luck.
Sean Donato
Sunrise Chevrolet
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Roger Ruppel
2009/06/08 10:21:48
I got to know the Garber family in 1957 when Guy S Garber sponsored our flag football team.Sence then Me and my family have bought many of cars from Grber Buick either new or used. For GM to take away Buick from Richard Garber and his employees is absurd. Garber has been here for one hundred and two years doesn't that account for anything with G.M? I guess not. May be they should go back in History and see when Guy Garber had to take money down to G.M for Gm to make pay roll that was back during the war days.
GM has obviously made some bad decisions and latley they seem to be getting worse. I hope that you will reconsider and let Garber Buick keep selling cars in Saginaw Mi.
Sincerely,
Roger Ruppel
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Michelle Herman
2009/06/08 10:21:25
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Detroit, Michigan
Dear Mr. LaNeve:
GM will be making a huge mistake closing this first class dealership. My family has purchsed vehicles from this dealership since 1976. We travel from Bay City and Byron Center Michigan to do business with Garber in Saginaw. My step-mother has had her Cadillac's serviced by Garber Buick for several years due to the quality and service she receives. You may ask why? Well her husband has long relationship with Garber Buick and is always satisfied with Garber's ability to take care of the family fleet, why not Garber Buick.
The team at Garber Buick is hard to beat. I have owned 14 Buick's over the years myself, due to the service after the sale Garber has alway provided.
Michelle Alarie Herman
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C. Blanchard
2009/06/08 10:15:57
As a former Chrysler District Manager and Assistant Professor at Nothwood University, I have been involved in the auto industry and cannot believe what GM is doing to Garber Buick. A dealer who is well capitalized, profitable, meets or exceeds the minimum sales reponsibility and delivers quality sevice should never be terminated by the manufacturer. Termination will lead to a loss of both sales and goodwill in the community. Garber is an asset to both GM and the Saginaw area. I hope that GM management will reverse the decision to terminate Garber Buick of Saginaw and instead give this quality dealer the support it has earned over the many years it has served Saginaw residents.
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Jerome Burns
2009/06/08 10:12:04
I hope GM continues your dealership. Your organization is the best I have ever dealt with, both from a sales and service point of view. Good luck, Jerome Burns
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Tammy and Ron Weighman
2009/06/08 10:08:36
Once you purchase a vehicle at Garber Buick, you will never purchase at another dealership. The Garber experience is exceptional!
The Garber staff has been a class act every step of the way during all of our family transactions.
To lose this long-standing Buick franchise would be a disgrace.
The Garber name is synonymous with quality, leadership and professionalism.
The Saginaw Spirit franchise offers these same qualities as it entertains 1,000's of individuals throughout their season in a positive, family-friendly atmosphere in Downtown Saginaw.
Saginaw has had enough economic disappointment. We have to maintain the strength and pillars of our community.
Please save Garber Buick!
Sincerely,
Ron and Tammy Weighman
Dornbos Printing Impressions
Another Long-Standing Saginaw Business
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Audrey Jeschke
2009/06/08 10:07:03
I urge GM to reconsider the decision to end the Garber franchise. When a dealer has been in business longer than the parent company says a lot for the men behind the business. They must be doing something right!! It's too bad we can't say the same thing for GM. The old saying about cutting off the nose to spite the face is true here.
Garber salesmen and their service department go out of their way to be sure you are properly taken care of. I've owned 2 Rendezvous and would buy a third if they were still produced. I hope Garber will still be able to supply me with Buicks in the future.
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Thomas J. Deisler
2009/06/08 10:05:23
The Garber Dealership and legacy of the Garber family has been a strong hold in the Saginaw Community and Tri City area. The Garber family has built strong bonds and has upheld this community by immersing itself here in Saginaw with continuous funding and sponsorship to many organizations and businesses.
In our current economic situation the Saginaw Community needs this cornerstone business to continue to thrive. General Motors needs to reconsider their decision and to let this fundamental organization continue to serve the community for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Thomas J. Deisler
Owner/Manager
Deisler Funeral Home
Saginaw, Michigan
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Matthew J. Spence
2009/06/08 10:03:55
MATTHEW J. SPENCE
4540 ASHLAND DR.
SAGINAW, MICHIGAN 48608
Phone: 1-989-793-3300
Fax: 1-989-793-3300
Mr. Mark LaNeve June 8, 2009
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle, Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Mr. LaNeve:
I want you to know that I support General Motors reversing its decision to terminate Garber Buick of Saginaw, Michigan as a dealer. Garber is a leader in Buick sales in the nation. Richard Garber and Garber Buick employees are leaders in the Saginaw, Michigan community. They are an asset to General Motors and it would be a huge lose to your organization to lose them.
I am sure you know that Garber has been in business for 102 years. Their Flagship dealership is beautiful and well run. Their service department is excellent. Their sales staff is always well dressed, courteous and knowledgeable.
I am a long time customer of Garber Buick. Please reinstate their dealership status.
Sincerely,
Matthew J. Spence
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Deborah Vaughan Stone
2009/06/08 10:01:30
Garber Buick is a Saginaw institution. The Garbers have been very good to Saginaw and have continuously contributed to this city which has been hit hard with economic strife. It would be devastating for Saginaw to loose this dealership.
Deborah Vaughan Stone
Heinlein Awning Co.
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Len Kruska
2009/06/08 09:57:08
G M don't close Garber Buick !!! They are a top of the line dealership; Customer friendly,efficient,and competent. G M don't make another mistake. A satisfied Buick owner for many years.
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Ivah Vega
2009/06/08 09:55:24
I truely think that GM needs to rethink taking away Garber Buick. Over 100 years of hard work and dedication, it's just ashame. I do realize that it is buisness not personel, however it doesn't say much about GM, when it is a proven fact Garber is great in sales and service. How GM forgets once upon a time, Garber helped bail out GM with payroll.
We appreciate Garber Buick, for being the icon and what this buisness has done for Saginaw.
Long Live GARBER BUICK
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Nick and Jackie Miller
2009/06/08 09:55:07
WOW, what else could you say. Just when you didn't think it could get any worse for a company, a community and a business as large as General Motors. GM has been making bad decisions for years and this is just proof that the future for them isn't going to be any better. To shut down Garber Buick makes no sense. If anything GM should duplicate the Garber company and learn how to run a business. We are in the roughest times of my life and you are shutting down a business that many, many customers want to do business with. I understand you have to make some changes, but I have to ask...Why in the world would you get rid of one of your companies that is been with you for over 100 years, has nothing but satisfied customers and is a business that puts back into its community...What else are you looking for in a company GM? It may not be huge to you but there will be a huge negative impact on your company in our community if you go forward with this decision. I'm sure I'm not the only one that will struggle buying your new product if this is the type of decisions you're making...
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Michael Miner
2009/06/08 09:51:42
We are behind you guys all the way!!! You have the best body shop, service center, and sales team in Michigan!!! Top notch client focus!!! We need you guys, your positive attitude and belief in Saginaw will keep us moving forward.
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Jim Biggins
2009/06/08 09:47:08
GM is obviously concerned about public perception of the company as it works through the bankruptcy process. One of the things the new GM will need above all else is an outstanding dealer network to sell and service their product. The vast majority of GM car owners will never have any direct contact with GM itself, so the importance of having top quality dealerships to the future success of GM is critical. The promise of a quality vehicle from GM isn't delivered to the customer till that handshake happens at the dealer level. Having lived in 2 strong GM states, Michigan and Ohio, and a half-dozen or so markets between them, I have never had the level of service and effort put forth by the Garber dealeships anywhere else. The future success of GM can only benefit by having the Garber staff working hard to get drivers in their cars. It's a marketing no-brainer!
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G. Rehmann
2009/06/08 09:42:02
Hopefully GM will reconsider their decision in closing Garber Buick. With their outstanding sales and service they should be allowed to be around another 100 years.
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Bill Richter
2009/06/08 09:37:48
It make's no sense to close this dealership for many reasons. What come's to mind first, closing will only hurt GM's recovery. Second, if this dealership is profitable why close it. Third, GM will loose more market share. Forth, GM will need rebuild it dealership base in the future if it want's to complete locally and nationally, so why close them unless they choose to on their own.
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Kathleen Laundra
2009/06/08 09:34:20
Not only is Garber Buick known as one of the best dealers in the area, but also of great importance is the fact that they have contributed greatly to the Saginaw area. Saginaw is having enough problems because of the auto industry; they do not need another slap in the face by GM.
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Norman Braddock
2009/06/08 09:20:57
From the Desk of:
Norman C. Braddock
1833 N Bond St.
Saginaw, Michigan 48602
June 5, 2009
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President
Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Detroit, Michigan
Dear Mr. LaNeve
I am a lifelong resident of Saginaw County. I am member of the Saginaw Public Schools Board of Education and Chairman of the Bridge Center for Racial Harmony of Saginaw County. I am also the President of the Michigan Caucus of Black School Board members and a member of the board of directors for the Saginaw Valley Manufacturers Association.
I worked for GM for 20 years and owned a small business that did business with GM for another 12 years. I am very much aware of the history and reasons for the GM bankruptcy. I could write a book about it.
I can assure you that the closing of the Garber Buick franchise is not in the best interest of General Motors. Simply put, if the Garber Buick franchise goes out of business in Saginaw, it will not only hurt the Buick brand but also all other General Motors brands in this region. I cannot imagine Saginaw without a Garber Buick franchise.
Saginaw needs GARBER BUICK…please reconsider your decision to close this store.
Sincerely
Norman C. Braddock
Director of Quality &
Business Development
SVRC Industries, Inc.
989.752.6176 ext. 2123
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Tom Weadock
2009/06/08 09:13:53
My grandfather was a leading salesman for Garbers in the late 1930's and early 1944's. Visting the Garber show rooms with him is among my fondest memories.Expreincing the sights and smells of the new cars continues today at Garber Buick. This is a tradition should not be lost.Our family has driven GM cars as far back as I can remember. It appears that GM has made another bad management decision.I have never seen so much disgust directed toward an issue that affects this entire community. I urge GM to reconsider their relationship with Garber Buick.I am certain that there decision will be reflected in there sales volume in the future.Thanks Dick for all that you contribute to this community.
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Anne Schultz
2009/06/08 09:08:13
Garber Buick is one of the bright spots here in Saginaw and a shining example of what it means to be a good corporate citizen to the community at large.
To have GM pull the Buick dealership from Garber would be another devastating blow to Saginaw not only economically but more importantly to the vision of Saginaw. The Garber family has a positive image of this community and we need to keep that.
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Bill Kessel
2009/06/08 09:05:36
I am 76 yrs of age and I owned my first Buick in 1955. It was purchased for me by my father. I have purchased several Buicks over the years since. My latest purchase was a 2008 Buick Enclave. I was in Naples,Fl. and decided I would call Garber Buick in Saginaw to make my purchase. I ordered the car over the phone and it was "drop shipped" to me in Dorado,Fl. I was very satisfied with the car and the advice I recieved from the Saginaw dealership was most important to me. Please reconsider your decision. Saginaw should stay open. It has been the "hub" to service Saginaw and places North for over 100 years. It is too "entrenched" in the lives of all of us mid-Michingan customers.
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Kathy Crawford
2009/06/08 09:03:23
I have been a customer of garber buick for years and everytime i went there they had great customer service.
until recently I had to buy a new car. I think it is wrong for what Gm is doing
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D Dean
2009/06/08 08:50:43
GM why would you want to close a dealership that has been with you for over 100 yrs??? AND been a top seller of your product??? Saginaw DOES NOT need more jobs taken away nor does Michigan!!!! I am a very satisfied customer of Garber and will definately follow their dealership..
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Chad DeBord
2009/06/08 08:45:04
Garber Buick has been a part of our community for over 100 years now. The news that GM would want to close down one of its oldest and best dealerships is a blow to all of us in the tri city area.
They have an outstanding reputation for service and support in our area.
I have had friends work for this dealership, I have been a customer of this dealership and they have been a customer at businesses I have worked at.
They are too big of a part of this community to have to close their doors after this many years of quality service.
I hope that GM is smart enough to realize that it is in their best interest, as well as this areas to continue to work with Garber Buick.
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Herb Berlin
2009/06/08 08:44:04
G. M. is in worse shape than I thought. They not only made a few bad decisions in the past leading up to their current problems, but it seems that they are still making some bad decisions.
I can't understand what the reasoning was behind the not renewing the dealership at Garber Buick in Saginaw. It has been shown to be one of the best performers in the United States in all respects (sales, service, and facilities).
It is by far the largest Buick dealership in the area. I for one and I have talked to others that agree with me , that we will not travel out of town to get a Buick and to go to for service work. As far as I'm concerned, they have lost a many year buyer of Buick cars as well as nothing but G M vehicles all my 65 years of life.
I plan on purchasing a new vehicle later this year and would have bought a Buick for sure, but now I think I will look at a new Ford product as there is a large dealership within just a mile of me. I didn't mind driving 6 miles to Garber as I felt it was well worth it in all respects, but this recent decision has changed my way of thinking.
If this is the way G M is going to make their decisions now and in the future, I don't want any part of it. I agree that stopping some dealerships is probably a good idea as there is too many dealerships in some areas, I just can't understand the reasoning behind ending the Garber dealership.
Making this kinf of a decision makes me believe that G M doesn't want to be in the Buick business at all.
Re-instate the Garber Buick dealership and I will buy a new Buick there and only there. Buick is in a class of it's own, as I have looked at others and still bought Buicks.
Your consideration into this matter is appreciated and if a mistake was made, it's time to correct it right away.
Thankyou.
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Bakari McClendon
2009/06/08 08:43:53
It's increasingly difficult to support the decisions of General Motors when community institutions such as Garber Buick are in the line of fire. We are Saginaw, we are Michigan! We believe in supporting our own. Here is a business that has stood the test through the most difficult and turbulent times in our country's history (more than 100 years). It grieves me to wonder what the Great Lakes Bay Region would look like without the unending support, optimism and leadership of Dick Garber. If we are to continue to lend our support for GM, then the decision makers had better take a second look at the relative impact of ending a dynasty that predates General Motors itself.
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John W Wolf Jr.
2009/06/08 08:39:26
My grandfather was a judge in Saginaw for about 40 years and my dad was a practicing attorney in Saginaw until he died at a relatively young age. Ive now been practicing law in Saginaw for about 45 years. In all of my years of practice, I have never heard of nor seen a business decison that is as ill advised and unfair as what the governmentally controlled GM is doing to Garber Buick. It makes no sense to take a long standing franchise away from one of the most successful automobile franchisees in America. Aside from being a successful business, Garber Buick has been a leading citizen and supporter of a wide array of public services for a century in mid Michigan. It is particularily appalling to think that our tax dollars are funding actions like this.
Respectfully Submitted.
John W Wolf, Jr
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K. AUMANN
2009/06/08 08:38:40
G.M NEEDS TO RECONSIDER THE CLOSING OF GARBER IN SAGINAW. WE NEED TO KEEP JOBS IN MICHIGAN AND NOT CONTRIBUTE TO THE STEADY DECLINE THE AREAS JOB MARKET. GARBER HAS BEEN A LONGSTANDING SUPPORTIVE BUSINESS AND IT WOULD BE A SHAME TO LOOSE EVEN 1 MORE BUSINESS IN SAGINAW.
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Harold E. Nadler
2009/06/08 08:38:03
I remember when Garber was on N. Washington Ave. They sold Cadillac, LaSalle, Buick, Pontiac. I had a 58 Pontiac Convertiable. They have always been a reliable company to deal with. Their new dealership on State Re. is a outstanding place. Who is going to sell Buick in Saginaw??? I feel that Combining the Cadillac dealership and Buick for Garber would be a real winner. I will have my Cadillac serviced in Saginaw then. I also know Dick Garber from Church. He is an outstanding person for Saginaw.
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Andrea
2009/06/08 08:36:24
As most people in the Tri-City Area are, I too am shocked to see that GM would close such a reputable dealership known for an outstanding product, great employees and award winning service for 102 years!
If you live in the Saginaw Area you know the name Dick Garber because he has had a hand in so many good things that have happened in the area. A decision to reverse your (GM) decision to close them down would be the right thing to do!
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Pam Winters
2009/06/08 08:26:01
General Motors needs to reconsider it's decision to discontinue the Buick franchise in Saginaw. Dick Garber is the driving force behind the great reputation Garber Buick has earned in the Great Lakes Bay Region. Quality and commitment start at the top -- and that attitude is present in the employees of Garber at every level. What are we to think of General Motors if they follow through on the decision to pull the franchise from one of the top sales leaders in the country? GM, can't you see what Garber, with the support of the people of Saginaw, have done for you?
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John Murray
2009/06/08 08:19:06
I've never purchased a vehicle from Garber Buick in the 60 plus years I've lived in the Saginaw area....This probably brings the question, why I would be writing these comments?......Simply put, it's from Garbers' reputation.....All the people I know in this community who purchased Buicks from the dealership----NEVER--- have I heard a negative comment about the dealership or the SERVICE you receive....From two car families to fifteen car leases, Garbers has held their business for years.... When you work for a non General Motors competitor I couldn't buy a Buick, BUT if I could, there is NO question I would be on my way to Garber Buick..... G M you are making a grave error in closing this dealership..... a reconsideration is needed.... thank you.... DO THE RIGHT THING!!
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Craig and Joan Douglas
2009/06/08 08:13:27
We are writing in support of Dick Garber and all associated with Garber Automotive Group.
Our belief is that General Motors has been in a state of disequilibrium for the past six months, doing the best they can to try to save their business.
Clearly a mistake has been made with the initial decision to "close" their best dealership in the region and one of the best in the nation.
We join the thousands who are asking/demanding for a reconsideration to keep Garber Buick "open" and operational.
Our sincere appreciation to all at Garber Management; let us hope that calmer thinking will prevail, and GM will support you to remain "open."
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Jim & MJ Koski
2009/06/08 08:01:19
We are born and raised in this community and can't imagine it without Garber Buick. Besides their business history, what they do and have done for our community is priceless. We just hope everyone's comments can make a difference, as they have made a difference in our lives.
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Thomas Marsrow
2009/06/08 07:34:54
Garber Buick of Saginaw has always provided superior sales and service and to see GM eliminate them would be tragic. General Motors has rated their dealers on the CSI factor, bombarding customers with surveys, prior to giving Garber Buick the news they were closing them down, maybe GM should have referenced Garbers CSI. That alone, would tell GM, this is one dealership that should be spared. Again, Garber provides their customers and General Motors customers with world class service.
Thank you, Thomas Marsrow
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Bradley Eichstaedt
2009/06/08 07:30:29
Dear Mr. Garber,
I want to Thank you first for everything you have given to this community. I hope and pray General Motors will reconsider your dealership and keep it open. My grandparents are deceased now but every car they owned was a Buick and was purchased through Garbers. My first Car was a Buick Skylark which I purchased at Garbers, I currently drive a Buick Lesabre and even though I didnt buy it from Garbers my family did and I bought it from them. I enjoy the service I recieve at Garbers and the honesty that your service technicians have given me. Mr. Garber you have given a great amount of time, commitment, and service to the saginaw area, and again I pray that GM will not close your facility, we need honest, hard working, dedicated people like you out there helping people in todays society. I also am a season ticket holder for the Saginaw Spirit and have been since day one you brought the team here from North Bay. General Motors if you close Garber's in Saginaw you are making a terrible mistake, this company has been around for 102 years, how many other dealerships have been around that long. Thank you again Mr. garber and may God Bless you.
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Jerry Goodwin
2009/06/08 03:50:37
Having purchased my last 4 cars from Garber Buick-I can say without a doubt they are first class. They listen to your problems and try their best to fix them. I dont see how they get an award earlier this year for top seller of buicks and them Gm closes them down. My mother,dad,step-dad-my two brother and I all retired from GM. I always thought GM was first class but can see they only look-out for them selves. Mr Garber does so much for this community,just for that alone he deserve to stay open. Since he is the only buick dealer in Saginaw,this will be a burden on all us Buick owners. With all the cars they sell,how does GM think it will help to close them down?
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Ronald C. Barry, MD
2009/06/08 01:36:41
I have to admit that I am still shocked that GM would close a business that essentially is the type of organziation that everyone else is striving to match. Dick Garber's strong sense of service and committment to excellence is clearly demonstrated in everything he does. He leads by example. Garber Buick is not only at the top based on sales volume, but in my opinion, is number one for their attention to details, their service to their customers and their devotion to the community.
I certainly hope that General Motors will reverse its decision and renew its sales and service agreement with Garber Buick. But I'll have to admit, that I will support Mr. Garber no matter what happens (as he has supported this community). He has vowed to stay open for another 102 years. He will continue to sell vehicles at his dealership in Saginaw Township. Based on the outstanding service, top notch facilities and the outstanding character of Dick Garber and his staff, I will plan to buy what Dick Garber is selling.
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nkubiak
2009/06/08 01:09:12
My husband and I have been Buick people for years! I once told my mechanic at GARBER BUICK that I was good at MY job but knew nothing of HIS job as a mechanic and that I would have to trust him and the GARBER BUICK CO. completely on whatever they told me my car needed to keep it in good condition. They have been the BEST! All these years and years and I have never had one complaint about all of their people. Dick Garber even called my home one evening to see if everything was done to my satisfaction. I have never had a BUSINESS OWNER follow up with a telephone call to me like that, EVER! I have told other people this story over the years because I was so impressed with him for making sure everything was ok for me. Word of mouth by a customer can have a big effect and these were all good words. If they do not keep his dealership in Saginaw I will not buy another Buick. The service they gave meant more to me than the name of the car! I think big business sometimes forgets things like that. People do not just buy a product because of a name. The name has to mean respect, too and that comes with years of building a good reputation. The name Garber stands for a lot in Saginaw. I hope GM REALLY looks again at this poor decision they have made to close GARBER BUICK. WOW! Who at GM is making this decision and why I would like to know.
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Diana Young
2009/06/08 00:33:23
Garber Buick has been and still is a wonderful ambassador for the Buick brand. This dealership boasts award winning sales team, strong community involvement and a 102 year old Garber family legacy. They have served generation after generation of families in the Saginaw, Michigan area. The loyalty, pride and service that the Garbers have shown the Buick brand are to be lauded. These are the very core principles that General Motors once had, and once again needs to become viable. Please reconsider closing an American icon, Garber Buick. I hope and pray that you will listen to our collective voices, GM.
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sonya frost
2009/06/08 00:07:20
I am not a Buick owner, but I was so disappointed
when I heard of GM taking the Buick dealership
away from Garber Buick, this establishment has
been one of Saginaws top dealerships for many
generations. I have many family members and
friends who own Buicks and purchased them from
Garber Buick and they have nothing but good to
say about this dealership. Dick Garber has done
wonderful things for the Saginaw area. GM you
must reconsider your decision.....
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Steve Shaffer
2009/06/08 00:00:37
Although I, personelly, have not purchased a vehicle from the Garber dealership in Saginaw, I am a lifetime G.M. customer. I'm also a G.M. retiree of 36 years and a military retiree and I know, understand, and embrace loyality. Garber Buick of Saginaw is the benchmark of service to the Saginaw region and loyality to General Motors. To take this dealership away from the Garber family and Saginaw would be a travesty of epic proportion. Please reconsider this decision and let the dealer continue to serve Saginaw and help resurrect G.M.
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The Jamrog's
2009/06/07 23:43:46
Instead of pulling out the Buick franchise from Garber Buick of Saginaw, General Motors should be adding to it!!! Dick Garber and his staff are business people to emulate. They are great at their business as top performers in sales and service. They are also great at serving the Tri-City communities of Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland, Michigan. They brought the Spirit, an Ontario Hockey League team to Saginaw, but promoted it as an area team. That success lead to a group of business leaders in Midland, Michigan to open up another sports franchise, the Great Lakes Loons, a single-A baseball team affiliated with the Los Angeles Dodgers. That lead to many more jobs for this area, and success for the surrounding businesses as well. Garber Buick cares and has made this region a much better place to live. Closing this franchise makes no sense, unless for some reason our government WANTS to end all successful business; WANTS GM to fail; WANTS to kill the American Dream. Please reconsider this decision.
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Dave and Mary Morin
2009/06/07 23:41:33
We have purchases vehicles from Garber Buick for years. Our last two purchases was on the same day. We were looking forward to buying again from Garber Buick. I took my van in last week for a check up before I left for a road trip,
with my Grandchildren. I can say we have been blessed to have Garber's team look after our vehicles. We trust Garber buick. We are retired
couple. Dave worked for General Motors. We support General Motors and GARBER BUICK.
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Dan and Theresa Kurtz
2009/06/07 23:30:09
Mr. Mark LaNeve
GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing
General Motors Corporation
Dear Mr. Mark LaNeve,
Last week General Motors made the very hard decision to file for bankruptcy after fighting very hard to stay out of bankruptcy. All the decision leading up to this final decision will probably never surface in full detail to the average American. I am very sympathetic to your position and to General Motors. Our country has been confused for years about the quality of the General Motors product mainly from the one side view or opinion of our media.
The reason I decided to write this letter during this time when you have a lot on your plate is more of a personal matter. Part of your commitment to the federal government in GM’s restructuring was the highly publicized closing of GM Dealerships. What we know of your decision to close these dealerships had specific criteria. The dealership closings were highly concentrated in metro markets where there is just too many and the market share is down and the survival for each dealership was in major risk. The other criteria was based on sales effectiveness, customer satisfaction, facility condition or GM updated look, cash in bank to survive these tough times and community involvement and support.
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Richard Kuch
2009/06/07 23:27:49
This note is for Garber's to share with G.M. My wife and I bought our first new Buick from Garber's (Webb Colbert) in 1967. we didn't buy anew car very year, but we purchesed at least four more Buicks from Webb before he passed. Our last Buick after, I retired from G.M. was purchased through Dick Herzog. Now this is no reccord I realize, But the dealership treated us good enough as family that we continued buying From them.. We have not driven any other car model other than Buick since Dec. 1978. We also Have a Chevy-pick-up and have driven them since my first Elcamino in 1969.
Please forward this letter to G.M. Sincerly, Richard and Donna Kuch (Salaried retires of 35.5 years)
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Ken & Sarah LaPierre
2009/06/07 23:11:19
With GM facing the most difficult time of its history they should be concentrating on putting the best team forward – without Garber Buick GM has forgotten one of its BEST players. Garber Buick is not just another dealership – Garber Buick has made the Buick brand what it is in Michigan! Is that how you reward one of your top players, by closing its doors when it is STILL a top performer!?!?!
GM has obviously made some bad decisions and lately they seem to be getting worse. Garber Buick is a top notch dealership and has earned the right to continue to be a part of the GM Buick team for as long as the Buick exists. Garber has a lot of customer loyalty because of the loyalty they (Garber) have given in return – GM will be losing a lot of customers if Dick is forced to turn to another automaker – I truly believe Garber customers will follow Dick, not GM. Not only would that be a sad day for the Garber Family who has represented GM for 102 years but also for GM to lose such a great family. Please reconsider your decision GM.
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Trace Hendrick
2009/06/07 23:01:37
Dick Garber has known me since I was born. He has been a friend of my family and is now a friend of mine. Since I've become part of the Saginaw business community, I've seen firsthand what a good business can do for a good city. The great people and strong balance sheet have made Garber Buick essential to Saginaw and more importantly, essential to the future profitability of General Motors.
Our business is a five generation family construction company. For many years, our first call when adding a new car or truck to our company fleet is to Garber Buick. I hope that when the sixth generation is added to our company that I am still making that call to Garber Buick here in Saginaw.
Sincerely,
Trace Hendrick
R.C. Hendrick & Son, Inc.
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Pat and Steve Starke
2009/06/07 22:58:00
We bought our first GM product, a Buick Enclave, from Garber Buick in Saginaw just this past February. We have never had such wonderful service from any previous car dealership we purchased vehicles from in the past that could even begin to compare with the service and treatment we received from Garber Buick in Saginaw! Every single person that we encountered at Garber Buick was helpful, friendly and professional in every way. From the moment we walked through the front doors, we could tell that this was a car dealership that cared about its customers.
The new GM leaders must rethink their decision and reverse their present course of action. Garber Buick in Saginaw is truly a model dealership in every way. We feel that those currently in control of GM could learn a great deal from spending a few days observing this fine team of workers in action. If this is the type of decision- making that the new governmental leadership is providing, then we believe they ought to step aside and let those who actually know about making and selling and servicing cars do their job.
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William L
2009/06/07 22:56:16
GM keep Garber Buick around, they provide awesome service!! I am always satisfied with Garber Buick. I love the cars and service I get from Garber Buick. Don't take away such a good dealership as Garber Buick.
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Ruth A. Parker
2009/06/07 22:54:03
This just seems to unbelievable to me and the other people who have known and lived in the community where the "Oldest Buick Dealership in the United States" has been terminated. One cannot think of a Buick without thinking of the name "Garber Buick". It has been a namesake in Saginaw, Mi. since 1907. Dick Garber has worked hard to keep the legenacy of his Grandfather, and Father's name. This is a dealership that is #1 in customer service and has consistently been in the top ten in sales. I hope GM will reconsider terminating this dealership. Richard Garber (Dick)doesn't just own the Buick Dealership in Saginaw. He has done such a tremondous amount of community service for Saginaw. He is genuinly a wonderful and gracious person who will go to great lengths to help the people in the Saginaw Community. He has loyal Salespeople in both Mike Lazorchak, and Roger Ruppel,who in turn, are loyal to their customers. We live in Columbus, OH and still have traveled to Saginaw, Mi. to buy a car from Garber Buick. Please reconsider terminating this dealership in Saginaw for the good of the dealership and the people who have come to trust the name of Garber Buick. I'm sure if you have really studied their success in Saginaw, and what it means to be the oldest Buick dealership in the country, you would reconsider your act. Sincerely, Ruth A.Parker
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Herb Spence III
2009/06/07 22:53:23
It is simply AMAZING how many people I have talked to over the past few days from throughout our community who are shocked and angry at the decision by GM to discontinue the Garber Buick dealership next year.
Although we all know that many tough decisions have to be made for GM to survive, NOONE can believe that it is truly in GM's best interest to eliminate this dealership, which is not only a nationwide leader in sales and customer service, but is also probably the most respected and trusted corporate leader in our community.
Garber Buick has earned this trust and respect through over one hundred years of supporting so many important organizations. I have been very proud to have worked along side Dick Garber for the United Way, the Chamber of Commerce, the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance and many other community groups.
I know Dick expects nothing in return for his generosity, except a better future for Saginaw and our families and friends here. However, his efforts and contributions throughout our entire region have TOUCHED THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE, who know he truly cares about our community. It is no wonder that so many of those people, including me and many in my family, have become his EXTREMELY LOYAL friends and customers.
GM has benefited from that loyalty and the loyalty earned by everyone at Garber Buick for over a century and they will do so again, if this decision is reversed. If GM takes the time to objectively reconsider this decision, I truly believe they will reverse it, because Garber Buick would continue to be a leader in sales, service and the community for them. If the decision is not reversed, it should be clear from the overwhelming response from throughout our community, that Garber will continue that very successful leadership here for one of GM's competitors.
Herb Spence III
Spence Brothers
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Louise Smith
2009/06/07 22:48:26
My husband, Gerald and I have been buying Buicks from Garbers for many years. We have been more than happy with with their selection of models, follow-up service and above all the courtesy and caring exhibited by all members of the staff. Their beautiful facility is appreciated by all of us who are customers and is an asset in our community. I sincerely hope that GM will reconsider their recent decision.
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Dennis & Melodye Adomaitis
2009/06/07 22:48:09
Dear Dick Garber,
My wife and I have used your dealership since we have been in Saginaw Michigan. You have sold us cars and sericed them when we needed it. we feel cheated that your Saginaw dealership has been pulled by G.M.
You have been a strong supported of our community and made it a better place to live in.
As a small show of our appreciation may I present this petition.
WE NEED GARBER!
Dennis & Melodye Adomaitis
Patricia A. Conley
Lesly Becker
MJ Becker
Susan Shinkel
Mary Ann Becker
R. Clark
Rea Corcoran
Richard Roberts Jr.
Karen Francis
Marian Mihalic
Harold Evans
Pat Evans
Darlene Pope
Robert Conley
James gamett
Sandi Munson
Larry Auer
Lisa Randell
Kathy Newsled
Bonnie salgat
Christine Bodaft
Suzanne Becker
Tammy Olvarez
Albert Galinski
Jose Maday
Chris Powers
John Rice
Lois roggenbeck
Joanne Rick
Bill Rick
Marilyn Roberts
Aubert Roberts
Suzanne Short
Bill Mc Intyre
Cecilia
Thompson
kathleen Cruz
Randy Pruhx
Susan Walgreen
Mary Oliver
John Crampton
Cheryl Dahl
Donna Grill
Tammy Haynes
Carolyn Keene Rapson
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Victoria Schultz
2009/06/07 22:26:36
Garber Buick is the BEST dealership I have ever walked into. The staff at Garber Buick are there for their customers and will do whatever it takes to make them 100% satisfied before, during, and after service and sales. I can't even explain what wonderful people the Garber organization has (the best). The decision made by GM to close Garber Buick is so shocking to all and it shouldn't be that way. The Garber Organization does so much for the community and has such a great impact on it. I wish the best to Dick Garber and Garber Buick…continue to succeed!!!!
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Jim and Lori Girard
2009/06/07 22:09:16
We have been with Garbers for many years. We have loyal customers because we have been treated with respect and offered fair pricing. The services department makes customer service first priority. We find it unbelieveable that such a successful organization for 102 years can lose the franchise. This is a huge mistake on the part of GM administration, and we sure hope they reconsider and correct this decision!
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Carl and Laura Wilson Family
2009/06/07 22:07:54
It was with great disappointment that we learned recently that the new Governmental Motors had thrown a bureaucratic dart at the dealership closure wall and somehow considered their shot good aim when one landed on the Garber Buick name in Saginaw, Michigan.
One explanation for GM's decision that we have heard is that Garber Buick is a singly focused dealership solely on the Buick nameplate with no other GM divisions represented at this location. If this is true then this would be another sad note for Governmental Motors decision making. Doing one thing well, and in this Garber Buick case- extremely well, should be something that GM recognizes as rewardable achievement and success. Instead, someone somewhere may be thinking that the Garber Management Group should have diversified over the years and added other divisions to this site in Saginaw. For what reason, though, to become 2nd, 3rd or bankruptcy best?
Many a business person and/or corporate entity (even GM with their Locomotive Division at one time in the past) has learned that focusing on your core business and being the best with that core offering is one sure way of staying in business for the long term. 100+ years as a successful Buick dealership business is proof enough that Dick Garber and his family of leadership predecessors learned this long ago in Saginaw. We believe that there would be a lot of useful wisdom and guidance that GM could gain from a non-bankrupt businessperson like Dick Garber if only they had asked before tossing their dart.
That's the business side of Garber Management Group. If this recent dart throwing decision making could have included consideration of the philanthropic and community support activities that the Garber family of dealerships has provided to the Saginaw, Chicago, and state of Florida communities then GM's dart would have bent and bounced off their board because GMG's foundational commitment to their communities is too firm to be penetrated from outside influence. Even with this recent GM decision we have already read quotes elsewhere from Dick Garber that he is firmly committed to keeping OHL hockey on the ice at Wendler Arena in the DOW Event Center with or without Buick represented on State St. in this same city. One might say that is a business decision based on profit making and/or taking from the community. That person would need to be stood corrected, because once again as we understand it The Spirit hockey team franchise is yet to be profitable. Mr. Garber is not walking away at this time from the commitment he made to that organization, so he is somehow remaining committed to find a way to keep that team on the ice.
That is core focused commitment we can all learn from.....including GM (and government) leadership.
We're pulling and praying for your continued success in Saginaw and beyond, Garber family.
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Mike and Kathy Rogers
2009/06/07 21:54:59
My wife and I would like to take just a moment of you time to express our displeasure in GM’s decision to terminate the dealer agreement with Garber Buick. We have read many articles and tried our best to keep up with what’s going on in the automotive world, listening to the new CEO talking to congress about his decisions and that the choice of selecting the dealers to close was based on underperforming dealerships. How is it possible that a dealership would receive not only numerous awards for volume as well as customer satisfaction would be considered a “under performing dealership”.
Take the emotions out of the decision, forget about the people and the lives that will be affected, just base it on performance, well OK, then tell me why again you are ending the dealer agreement with one of your top performing stores in North America?
Richard Garber, his team at Garber Buick, are among the best in the industry both in taking care of their customer base as well as rolling out new Buicks, there is not another store that you could give the Buick franchise to that will do as good a job for you as the Garber team has.
I would assume there will be many dealers asking the same that we are for Garber Buick, I would ask that you ask yourself why did you ask Richard Garber to open a flagship store for Buick? Why would you put your trust and confidence in him then only to surrender it now. Garber Buick is Buick, from the inception of Buick till now they have been a corner stone for the foundation of GM, their history of customer service and productivity should stand on its own.
We would ask that you would just look at the facts, who are you going to entrust this franchise with that will be a better representative of what you want the “new” GM to look like? Please reconsider your decision.
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Marc and Berni
2009/06/07 21:53:28
Consistently meeting and exceeding ALL standards in sales, service and facilities, Garber Buick is undeniably a tremendously valuable asset to General Motors future growth. In fact, Guy S. Garber, the founder of Garber Buick, loaned his own personal funds to the founders of Buick Motors when needed, thus being instrumental in the early years of success for Buick. Consistently in the top 10 for volume sales in the United States, in fact the # 1 Buick volume sales dealership out of over 1800 dealers in the US just 60 days ago, Garber Buick has continued to be a major contributor to the success of the Buick brand.
We do not understand how anyone can assumeit is in GM's best future interest NOT to have Garber Buick on board as a team member in the “New GM”. We are convinced that this is an unfortunate oversight.
We respectfully request that GM review the facts in order to become more aware of the role Garber Buick of Saginaw, Michigan and the Garber Family have played - and continues to play -in the growth and success of the General Motors - Buick brand over the past 102 years.
We are convinced that a decision to keep Garber Buick as part of the GM Buick distribution network will, without question, contribute greatly to a stronger, more viable and successful future General Motors Corporation.
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Jack Luna
2009/06/07 21:28:10
Hello folks,
I purchased my first vehicle from Garber Buick back in November of 2008 and the service was outstanding. We need these kind of dedicated customer service oriented businesses in our community. I'm all about taking care of the customer and Garber Buick goes out of the way to do just that. Dick is a true community leader and really represents the Saginaw County like no one else. All my future vehicles will be purchased from Garber Buick. Please do what ever you need to do to keep this phenomenal business prospering for another 100 years. Sincerely, Jack Luna
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Wally Szunko
2009/06/07 21:27:09
I'm appalled that GM and the government would be able to close a successful and well established dealership such as Garbers. We have worked with Garbers for the past 30 years both professionally and personally and have had nothing but outstanding service. The decision to close this dealership is shortsighted and the reprecussions will ripple out far and wide for years to come. There must be some other solution that doesn't cause such a negative effect on so many families!
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David Sanford
2009/06/07 20:59:29
I had the opportunity to work with the Garber Management group several years ago. While I have moved on to other pursuits, I consider the knowledge I gained from that experience to be invaluable.
By way of practical demonstration of this fact, I am ranked 5th nationally of some 200 hundred managing associates of John Hancock Financial Network with 32 agents in my employ. Garber Management gave me much of the education necessary for this accomplishment.
General Motors has failed to appreciate the importance that this company is to this community. I echo Mr. Hendrick's opinion that GM continues to make poor business decisions. GM's management is simply unqualified to make such a unilateral decision.
Certainly the decision to remove Garber Management as a Buick Franchise holder is not the end of Garber Management nor the community it serves.
But it is yet another GM decision where everyone gets to lose. The clients that the Garber Buick franchise has faithfully served, the employees of Garber Buick, Garber Management Group, the community the Group serves in so many countless ways and finally General Motors itself.
One cannot help but wonder that if all GM franchise's were operated in the same superior manner that Mr. Garber has operated his, if reinventing General Motors, through the use of the bankruptcy laws, would have been necessary.
I suggest that General Motors in its "reinvention" of itself, begins to "reinvent" some of its recent decisions epecially the one not to renew the oldest Buick Franchise.
Dick Garber and his team certainly deserve General Motors' reversing this poor, unqualified decision that was clearly made in lieu of better discretion. They have not earned losing the franchise they have earned a reversal. A cursory review of the history of the franchise proves this.
David Sanford
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Erica Hiser
2009/06/07 20:55:09
I can't believe that a dealership like Garber's would be considered for closure when they have exceeded expectations both from a business sense and a community player. Over 100 years of service for the Buick Division of General Motors, rated #1 in the country for volume, and an organization of class and community involvement. Garber Buick has proved to be one of your outstanding dealerships. GM and Buick will never be the same without the Garber family. GM needs Garber
Buick to make the difference! Please reconsider your decision.
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Marilyn Eckenswiller
2009/06/07 20:51:25
It saddens me to see that GM, under new leadership, continues to make poor decisions by taking the Buick line away from Garber Buick. If the powers that be within GM believe that taking Buick from a company is the way to strengthen GM they are sorely mistaken. For the past 102 years Garber has not only supported & promoted the Buick product, they have reinvested in the company and community. Garber has not only employed our families, friends and neighbors; they have supported our Chamber's of Commerce, art museums, sporting events and countless other charities. Our community support will remain with them regardless of the product lines they sell.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Garber's and all their employees. Thank you for all you have done for Saginaw and Mid-Michigan.
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Mark Rohrkemper
2009/06/07 19:21:03
It's no wonder GM is in the state it is right now. It's made many poor decisions through the past 30 years and this announcement about Garber Buick is just one more example. When you have something that works well, you don't terminate it; you capitalize on it and expand it. As a taxpayer, and now stakeholder in General Motors, I urge "my" board of directors to resverse management's decision to terminate GM's association with Garber Buick, Inc. The company should remember that Garber is older and obviously wiser than GM and had it not been for men like Guy Garber Sr, the corporation may have desolved many years ago!
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kim manke
2009/06/07 19:20:24
I can't, believe GM's decision to cancel Garber Buick. They are to big a Corporation. Looking At all the excellent jobs they have done At Garber Buick, The whole Garber Dealership does an excellent job that everyone does at Garber Buick. They have complete trust with customer relationships and also they need more leaders like Dick Garber at GM. He is a top leader and also has given back to his saginaw commiunity.If GM,had any common sense,they wouldn't let Garber Buick go down for being the number 1# dealer in the state of michigan. It's quite an accomplishment.I also have worked for GM for over 35 years.and the new General Motors will force me,not to buy your products. I will buy whatever products Garbers will be selling. They are great people to due business with, excellent service's from the whole family at Garber Buick.I address this letter to Mr. Mark LaNeve GM North America Vice President Vehicle Sales,Service and Marketing General Motors Corporation. To come to Garber Buick,to see what you have missed, seeing an excellent team. They havebeen in business for over 102 years. You should reconsider letting Garber Buick sell Buicks for the next Generation.Also check out their General Motors benchmarks for Automotive excellence.If you know how to.
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Les & Sally Tacey, Essexville
2009/06/07 19:13:30
We have gone to Garber Buick since 1975 to buy our Buicks. We could have gone to Bay City to the Buick dealer here but we have always been treated so well and fair that we wouldn't consider another dealer. The salesmen were all very friendly and tried to help in any way they could. We have also bought our pickup trucks from Garber in Midland and received the same friendly service at their location.
I feel GM made their own mistakes, so why should they punish the dealers that sold the most vehicles. Sounds like they still haven't learned anything from this.
I sure hope GM changes their mind and allows their best dealerships to continue to sell Buicks.
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Steve Kelly
2009/06/07 19:13:10
As Chairman and CEO of one of the State's largest CPA firms, I have seen many examples of how various companies conduct business. I have never seen a better example than Garber Management Group and its flagship dealership, Garber Buick. Their unwavering commitment to customers, employees and community is unparalleled. I must admit that I am astonished that General Motors feels its financial future is enhanced by closing this premier dealership!!
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Carol R. Lechel
2009/06/07 19:13:03
For the last five years I have either leased and/or currently own a Buick Rendezvous and absolutely love the car. I have always received exceptional service provided by the Garber Buick Saginaw franchise, from sales to service. Not only am I shocked that General Motors has not awarded Mr. Richard “Dick” Garber and Saginaw Garber Buick a Buick franchise for the future, I am appalled and simply disgusted. What message is General Motors sending to the youth of this country: “Do your best, work hard, set your goals high, exceed customer expectations, give back to your community …. And you will NOT be rewarded!” This is exactly what GM has done to Garber Buick.
GM has made a serious mistake. I ask you to reconsider your decision, admit a mistake has been make (and we all make them) and then take action to extend a franchise to Garber Buick in Saginaw. It will be a decision that will move General Motors and Buick forward during these very challenging automobile times.
In addition to this online support, I am sending a letter to Mr. LaNeve.
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Jerry Brachear
2009/06/07 18:54:00
I find it hard to believe that GM would close a dealership that has lasted for so many years and has the reputation as one of the finest dealerships in the country. It is no wonder that GM is in trouble when they make decisions like that. I just hope that you can see your error and reverse such a stupid decision. I can see no good in it for anyone to close Garber Buick.
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Jeff Williams
2009/06/07 18:43:30
The process used to determine which dealers live and which ones die makes no sense at all. In many cases the dart score given the dealerships determined to close, does not match the real score they should have been given. There are only two scenarios that make sense. ... There is no common sense in closing productive dealers. If GM and Chrysler continue on this path, the government will continue to bail them out for many years to come.
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Chip Hendrick
2009/06/07 18:39:05
I dont find it easy to say this, but it is not hard to understand why GM filed for bankruptcy when it makes the decision to take Buick away from its oldest and recently top selling dealership. The decisions GM has made over the last 40 years propelled it into bankruptcy, and the decision to no longer allow one of its top dealerships, Garber Buick to sell its product tells me it continues to make bad decisions. Dick Garber about 7 years ago could have made the decision to build a normal dealership on State St. Instead he elected to spend more money and build a "Flagship" dealership and accept the challenges that went along with that. In addition, Garber Buick and specifically Dick Garber has done as much as anyone for our community in Saginw. If your decision stands to take 102 years of selling Buicks away from Garber, I along with our firm will still buy from Garber. It will NOT be Buick and probably not a GM product, but whatever brand even if foreign that he decides to sell. I grew up learning in school that old saying "What's good for GM is good for America". Unless GM reverses this poor decision to take Buick away from one of its BEST dealership's, I will only consider it a saying from the past because this certainly isnt good for anyone. Not for Saginaw or for America.
Chip Hendrick
R.C.Hendrick & Son,Inc
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JoAnn Noffsinger
2009/06/07 18:37:40
Garber Buick on State Street has affected our families lives positively in many ways.
I take pride in saying that my daughter works at Garber Buick. She is treated as a valued employee as well as a friend. She knows that she can offer great customer service because her company stands behind her with that same "great service goal".
My son has also benefited from Dick Garbers generosity. He works as a sheriffs officer in Ogemaw County, where Mr. Garber donated thousands of dollars to the counties safety programs after his family members accident. Because of the donation, we are safer as citizens and my son can do his job even better.
Last, but not least, I and many family members are extremely happy customers of the State Street Garber Buick...got to love that Rendevous and the service it has received!!!
We hope and pray that these fine business and community people are allowed to continue to service GM and our area.
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Chuck Jacobson
2009/06/07 18:12:03
Dick:
You and the people in your organization are in my thoughts and prayers!
Please know that I have great respect and admiration for your leadership and contribution to the mid-Michigan community.
Thanks for all the great things that you do to help others.
Sincerely,
~ Chuck
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Dr. Bill and Mrs. Mary Jo Scharffe
2009/06/07 18:07:11
To the General Motors Corporation and to the attention of the entire Garber Buick family of owners and employees:
My family, has been customers of Garber Buick in Saginaw, Michigan for over 90 years as best I can calculate. Garber Buick has served us well as customers and has made our Saginaw community a better place to live.
G.M.'s decision to terminate the Garber Buick franchise is short sighted, a bad business decision, and a slap in the face to the thousands of loyal Garber customers in Saginaw and across the state of Michigan. Any company that would show such a lack of judgement cannot be trusted to produce an improved product line or to spend wisely the billions of taxpayer dollars being poured into the operation. GM can no longer be trusted and that is sad.
We urge GM to reverse its decision so that we might continue to call ourselves loyal GM customers and so that such a vital part of the business and community scene in Saginaw, Michigan is not lost to political maneuvering and partisan pandering from Washington.
Sincerely,
Dr. and Mrs. Mary Jo Scharffe
Saginaw, MI.
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Vincent Buggia
2009/06/07 16:43:04
I purchased a used Oldsmobile from Garber Buick and have had is serviced there several times. The people there have always been friendly, courteous and efficient. They are the people the "New" GM needs to represent it in the future. The dealership is a cornerstone in the State street corridor in Saginaw Township. GM is doing a great disservice to Saginaw and the Company in closing it.
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Samuel J. Shaheen, M.D.
2009/06/07 15:58:59
I have outlined my thoughts in a letter to General Motors. After reading the online support, I felt compelled to highlight my thoughts. Richard Garber and the Garber organization "ARE" Buick to the Great Lakes Bay Region. Many years before Buick became GM's leading brand in quality, Garber was dazzling us with exceptional customer service. At the urging of GM, the dealership spent millions of dollars to be geographically "closer to the customer." I can assure GM that there is no GM dealership in this nation closer to it's customer than Garber Buick-- no matter where they're located. I am probably one of very few "young" men that have owned three Buicks--the reason is Garber and the Garber organization.
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Jeff Endean
2009/06/07 15:47:21
Saginaw is Buick Country! Garber Buick could not have reached its pre-eminence except for this fact: it sells the brand people want to buy. It is in GM's own best interests to maintain a sales outlet in Saginaw for one of Saginaw's most popular lines, Buick. Does GM really want the Garber organization to focus its local selling efforts on another brand in what is probably Saginaw's most modern dealership facility? Let's hope not!
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patricia Shek
2009/06/07 15:39:02
Our community has been blessed with the business accumen of the Garber family and most recently with the far reaching and inspired thinking of Dick Garber.It shakes my confidence in the future of General Motors to have them decide that the dealership that has set the standard for three generations is in question.I won the Govenors aAward for Civic Leadership two years ago and so very many of the Art museum, Saginaw Symphony Projects I worked on were funded by Garber Buick.Please say you made a typo so we can have faith in the future of General Motors. pPatricia T> Shek
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Polly Lynch
2009/06/07 15:21:10
I have been a Buick owner for the last fifteen years and have purchased all of them from Garber Buick. The service I received from Garber Buick could not be equaled anywhere. The Garber family have been great supporters of Saginaw for over 100 years and have added to the community in many, many ways. I can't believe that a dealership like Garber's would be considered for closure when they have exceeded expectations both from a business sense and a community player. We need Garber Buick and Dick Garber.
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Ron Feldman
2009/06/07 15:12:42
I have been a Garber Buick customer for many years. I purchased my Buick there, and have had it serviced several times. The staff are the best, and I consider them all friends. They give great service to all their customer's. Perhaps they are not selling lots of new cars now, but neither are other car dealerships. That is because the cost of a new car is way too high, and most people just don't have that kind of extra money to spend. Please keep Garbers open with the Buick dealership for years to come.
Ron Feldman
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Martin H. Zehnder
2009/06/07 14:44:39
Garber Buick has been around before GM made Buick a division of GM. Guy S.Garber, Dicks grandfather, loaned money to Alfred P. Sloan and Billy Durant to help them form Buick Motor Division. Guy S. Garber was a Buick Distribtor to all the Buick dealers north of Flint, Michigan. He helped many of them financially to get in business as Buick Dealers. My father, Elmer S. Zehnder started his Dealership in 1922, in Frankenmuth, and received all his buicks through Garber Buick of Saginaw untill 1960. Garber was also the factories Service program,which was handled by Garber employee, Norm Geyer, on behalf of Buick Motor Division. Guy S. Garber was a pioneer in the Buick dealership business, and always was a top Buick Dealer performer. To this day, Richard and his team hae excelled in sales, service and customer satisfaction. For GM to pull Garber's Franchise would be devastating to the area and will leave loyal Buick customers without a local dealer to do business with. i hope GM will study their decision further and change their mind and let Garber continue as a Buick Dealer in Saginaw.
Martin H. Zehnder, former Buick dealer in Frankenmuth, Mi.
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Al Brown
2009/06/07 14:02:50
Open letter to General Motors,
Integrity, loyalty, civic leader. All of these describe Dick Garber. However, as far as General Motors is concerned he has proved to be one of your outstanding dealerships. Corporations like General Motors spend millions of dollars developing public trust and brand loyalty. Dick Garber is emblematic in this regard. Starting with Dick's grandfather, father, and now Dick, the Garber family has for over a century given to the Saginaw community the very best that they could as a business and civic partner. With General Motors
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Donald LaPierre
2009/06/07 13:36:03
Over 100 years of service for the Buick Division of Gereral Motors, rated #1 in the country for volume, and an organization of class and community involvement. Yet this was not enough for the "New GM"
If this decision was based soley on the fact that Garber Buick is just a Buick dealership then give them Cadillac/Gmc. You reward loyalty, you don't punish it.
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Tom Bear
2009/06/07 13:33:27
I have bought GM products for forty-five years and Garber Buick has always been the place to go.
They have always had an outstanding location,
service, and people! I can't believe that GM
would drop a company that has been with them for over one hundred years. The Garber family has been great for Saginaw and the community.
I believe GM and Buick will never be the same without the Garber family. GM needs the Garber
family going forward to make the difference.
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Mort + Judy Weldy
2009/06/07 13:24:39
We have been Garber Buick customers for around 40 years. We started there because we liked Buicks -we stayed there because we liked Garbers. We are not particularly easy to please, but Garber's service was uniformly great.
In recent years, we have become more aware of Dick Garber's huge involvement in the community, which is another big plus.
If Garbers continues to sell Buicks, we will buy Buicks. If they sell something else, we will buy whatever it is that they are selling. Also, at a recent meal at the Saginaw County Club, we found our dining companions felt exactly the same way.
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Angela Barris
2009/06/07 13:01:07
The Mid-Michigan Children's Museum board of directors, staff, volunteers and guests place our support behind Mr. Dick Garber and the Garber Management Group. Dick Garber have the MMCM a home in the former Garber Buick dealership in downtown Saginaw.
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Richard Sylvester
2009/06/07 12:57:24
I can't believe that General Motors told Dick Garber that he will no longer be in the business of selling Buick cars. He is the biggest and best Buick dealer in this area!!!! He has done soooooo much kind work for the community. He is unselfish and has shared his all with us.
How did you ever choose him of all the dealers in the whole United States!!!!
When you hear the Garber name you think only of the oldest and best dealer ship in all the world!!!
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Becky Gilson
2009/06/07 12:27:44
My throat welds up reading and hearing talk about General Motors closing Garber Buick in Saginaw, just this past spring they were rated the top Buick dealership in the country for sales. In business you keep your successful stores open and close the dogs. Garber has done many different things for our community, besides selling fine cars and good service. We,the people of Saginaw and Buick need upstanding people like Dick Garber. Please reconcider this decision!!
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Adam Herbolsheimer
2009/06/07 12:24:15
My family and I have been customers at Garber Buick for many years and have purchased several vehicles from this dealership. Although we live in the Metro Detroit area where there are plenty of places to purchase a car and have it serviced, we gladly travel to Saginaw in order to do business with the staff at Garber.
All of the interactions we’ve had over the years have been pleasurable and the staff at Garber Buick has always gone out of their way to accommodate us. The sales staff has continually been able to find vehicles for us to purchase that precisely meet our needs, and the sales process has been incredibly smooth. When we have needed service for warranty issues or general maintenance, the service department has been very professional and friendly. And all of the work that we have had completed has been top notch.
We were very disappointed to hear that this successful dealership is slated for closure. One of the main reasons why our family has continued to purchase GM vehicles is because of the bond we have and the loyalty we feel for this dealership.
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State Rep, Ken Horn
2009/06/07 12:14:24
I've sent my letter of support to Garber Buick as Dick makes his appeal to General Motors. It's my sincere hope that each of you reading this garbernews.com page will share your thoughts with Dick, as well.
I'd like to see him go to Detroit on Tuesday with a thick stack of support letters from a grateful community.
Besides, it would be a shame to let this young whipper-snapper of a General Motors company dictate to the older Garber Buick how to do business :)
Let Dick and his team walk into G.M. from a position of strength that comes only from your thoughts and prayers.
It's time to give back. Only with neighbors helping neighbors, will our community thrive. And, Garber Buick has been a good neighbor
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Tom Sieggreen
2009/06/07 11:09:39
I was stunned to see GM's decision to pull Garber Buick's franchise.Closing one of the world's best Buick dealerships makes me highly suspicious of what possible criteria could have been utilized to come to this absurd decision---additionally,just exactly who were the people involved in deciding this?
I don't pretend to have all the answers.However,I am a local small business owner who has tried hard to do the right things in running our own business.I always felt Garber's treated me in that same fashion---honorably,with respect and an appreciation for how important any customer is to any business.Additionally, if there is a more community minded dealership/owner than Garber's or Dick Garber,I have yet to see the company or meet the person.
I hope GM will reverse itself on this ridiculous decision.
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rich perdue
2009/06/07 09:17:47
General motors has its hands full with some very hard decisions. We understand that but a blanket solution will not fix this! You are taking the best hitter out of your batting line up. This is like telling Babe Ruth that he could not play baseball!!! Garber is Buick to the tri- cities. When people say GARBER we think Buick. 100 years is a long time and this comunity needs to know that with all the change happening in a GM town that there is some sanity left out there. We will purchase vechicles from Garber GM or whatever brand they sell.
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Jim ,Shirley Cole
2009/06/07 09:13:46
I'm haveing trouble believing that GM in a time of need would even consider dropping Garber Buick as a new car Dealer.Our area needs a Buick Dealer with the trust that the Garber family has built thru years of busness with the community and surounding area.
When GM was in trouble back when, and they came Dicks Grandad and asked for his help they were only to happy to take his money.Sure they gave him a great area for a long time from here,Saginaw North,under his control for the loan,but they gladly did it. So now is Gm going to give the francise to Mcdonalds or someone in BayCity with ties to GM or what?
Thank you and your family for many many years of fathfull service to the Saginaw and surounding area Dick. and good luck in the Future.
GM if you do close this dealership, it will be a Huge mistake on your part for years to come. Please reconsider this Major decision, it would do the company more good to keep it open.
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Sam Kottamasu
2009/06/07 09:12:37
Garber's Buick has been number one in Sales, Service and Customer Satisfaction for 100 plus years and now they face closure. The mid-Michigan community has come to know Garber not only for the product it sells and services, but for the family that is truly involved with community service in mid-Michigan.
I am hoping that General Motors will consider sending one of the other GM product lines to Garber's. In doing so, you may find an increase in sales and satisfaction with that product line as well.
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Shawn Williamson
2009/06/07 08:49:13
I can not believe how GM is making these choices. They are clearly not think of the loyal customers they have in Saginaw. It takes years to get that kind of loyality and seconds to make it go away and I'm afraid that is happening with every new news that comes out. It makes me sick.
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Sally Finzel
2009/06/07 01:29:54
I hope that after more careful consideration General Motors's decision to close Garber Buick in Saginaw will be reversed. I have experienced the sales staff to be fair and the service department excellent. What sense does it make to close a dealership that is doing such a good job? Good luck to all the Garber staff.
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Mike Lazorchak
2009/06/06 20:52:23
I cannot believe the GM decision makers ever looked at Garber Buick's track record with Buick Motor Division when they decided NOT to include Garber Buick as one of their Dealers.
Garber has been building trust and customer relationships for over 100 years, exceeding General Motors benchmarks for automotive excellence. Garber Buick Customer Service is second to none.
The generosity and personal time given by Dick Garber in all the community endeavors that he is involved in to make Saginaw a better place to live and work is called Leadership. General Motors certainly needs leaders like Dick Garber representing Buick Motor products.
I have been buying GM products for over 40 years from Garber Buick, your decision to not include Garber Buick in the New General Motors will force me to Not buy your GM Products, I will buy what ever product Garbers will be selling because they are truly a great place to do business, they take wonderful care of their customers in sales and service.
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Gary Minard
2009/06/06 19:42:15
To Dick Garber and the entire Garber Buick Family,
GM has a great Buick product being sold currently by one of the greatest dealerships in America, Garber Buick of Saginaw! When you look at Garber Buick's customer satisfaction reports in all areas of the dealership business, they consistently rank at the very top amoung all dealers in the United States. What GM is currently considering does not make sense and must be re-evaluated!
I have been a dedicated Buick owner since 1975 and have enjoyed over those many years, the personalized service given by Garber Buick. From the sales staff, office staff, to the service department and body shop, I have never experienced anything but the very best. They have a way of making everyone feel like they are their most important customer. No one can represent General Motors and Buick better than Garber Buick!
I am hoping that the opportunity is there for Garber Buick of Saginaw to continue the family tradition of selling Buicks for another 100 years!
Good Luck to Dick and his entire Garber Buick Family. The entire community supports you!
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lee winterstein
2009/06/06 18:35:31
I hope and pray that Graber Buuick stays open. Why should a privately owen business that only buys their cars from a manufacture being told to close, when they hve the most sales. And why should poeple go miles for a buick? They are the ones that support the little league, chhildren's programs and the like. The goverment is going baackwards with their idea, since instead of creating jobs they are doing the oppsite.
Lee winterstein
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M Dean
2009/06/06 17:39:18
I am a Garber customer and would like to comtinue having a reliable Buick dealership in Saginaw. Michigan does not need to lose more jobs..!I am hoping they will reconcider and let Garber Buick remain open !
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Dan Kuhn
2009/06/06 17:37:07
In any person and organization has ever deserved this communities support, it is Dick Garber and Garber Buick.
Below is an example of why....
Dan Kuhn
VP/Police Officers Association of Michigan
18yr patrolman for Saginaw City PD
A Hockey Game to Remember
by Dan Kuhn
It all started one day while I was talking on the phone to a resident of Arenac County named Kathy Wilk. I met Kathy during the “Sheriff Bouldin Must Go” campaign that the Police Officers Association of Michigan and I were involved in for several years prior to his defeat in the most recent sheriff’s race. Bouldin was our 2007 Award recipient. I spent a lot of time in Arenac County, and got to know many good people during the campaign. One of those people was Kathy, and the day we spoke on the phone she inquired about whether or not the POAM might be able to assist in some way with a benefit dinner that Sheriff Mosciski and numerous others were hosting for a young boy who had lost his foot in a tragic boating accident last summer. The effort was organized in attempt to raise some of the thousands of dollars needed to purchase a new prosthetic for the young boy. The POAM had endorsed Sheriff Mosciski and assisted him in his bid to become the Arenac County Sheriff, so Kathy thought we might be willing to help. After hearing the “Tyler Adams story” there was only one thing I could say, and that was “Heck, yes!” I told Kathy I would donate some Detroit Tiger tickets, and see what I could do about putting together some cash and make a donation at the benefit. After a little more conversation, I was told that Tyler was a big fan of Saginaw’s OHL hockey team, the Saginaw Spirit. I immediately thought to myself that it would be nice to get Tyler to a Spirit game before the season ended. I checked the schedule and realized that there were only two more home dates left this year, so I called a long-time friend Dick Garber who owns the Saginaw Spirit and asked him if there was any way to make this night out for Tyler happen on short notice. I was only looking for some tickets to the game, and maybe a signed Spirit jersey. Without hesitation, Dick said, “Whatever you need, Danny.” The plan started out as tickets, a signed jersey, and a visit to the locker room to meet the team. That was when I decided to check with some other businesses I was familiar with and see if they could help make the night even a little more special. Mr. Garber also told me he would do some checking and see what other surprises he could come up with for Tyler. After a couple of days, I contacted Mr. Garber and told him I had arranged for a limousine and dinner for the Adams group on game night. I had also involved the Arenac County Sheriff Department and the Saginaw City Police Department who both contributed to the cause. Dick told me that he had spoken with the hockey club, and the co-owner of the team Craig Goslin, and that all were on board with making Tyler’s night at the rink a memorable one. The other good news was that co-owner Craig Goslin had friends at Michigan Orthopedic Services and he would contact them to see if they might help the Adams family in their goal of purchasing Tyler a new prosthetic foot. On game day, I met the limousine from Complete Limousine in Saginaw when it arrived at Jake’s, where the group was having dinner. I was informed by the limo driver that a second limo was meeting us at the stadium before the game. This second limo had been sent to Brighton to pick up the staff of Michigan Orthopedic Services. It was then I began to realize that this night may end up being even more special then anyone could have anticipated. After dinner Tyler headed down to the Dow Event Center where the Saginaw Spirit Hockey Club had arranged for Tyler to meet and talk with the players before the game. After the introductions at the rink, Tyler and the group were led to the locker room where he met and spoke with the team. To try and describe that event is hard to do with words. You could have heard a pin drop in that locker room when Tyler told the players about his accident. At one point, he even toured the room and showed each of them his prosthetic foot by lifting up his pant leg. To tell you that everyone in the joint was touched would be an understatement. I think we all recognized just how lucky we all were to have our bodies intact and have the abilities we do to complete the day to day tasks we all have. It was also very clear what a special a young man Tyler Adams is. In just a few short minutes a 13-year-old boy humbled us, and made a memory that will no doubt be a lasting one for all of us, including the future NHL players sitting on those benches. I’d like to say “Thank You,” to the all of the Saginaw Spirit Hockey Players in the room that night. I was aware of how big of a game was at hand that Saturday, and to spare Tyler their time was an act of kindness that myself and Tyler’s family will never forget. Tyler loves his jersey, and still carries the hockey puck he received that night with him. Tyler’s next stop was center ice to drop the puck. Tyler and his father, Scott Adams, walked onto the ice with their Saginaw Spirit jerseys on. Tyler was even wearing a Saginaw Police Department ball cap which I thought was especially cool. The excitement on their faces was again one of the most memorable events I have ever witnessed. After the drop of the puck, a couple more special guests walked out onto the ice. Dennis Durco, President and CFO, and Scott Baranek from Michigan Orthopedic Services joined Scott and Tyler for what was announced as a special surprise presentation. As I stood and watched from the penalty box, the sold-out arena became very quiet as it was revealed that Michigan Orthopedic Services was donating a top-of-the-line, state-of-the-art special prosthetic to Tyler that will allow him to resume the active life that every teenage boy desires. Tyler especially wants to try it out on the baseball diamond this summer, and I plan on witnessing that feat when it occurs. After the presentation, everyone was finally taken to the area where we would get to watch the game. The area, not to my surprise, was directly at ice level on the glass. It even had a buffet set up for the guests. Between periods Tyler was kept busy too. He helped finish the ice on the Zamboni during one break, and he and his dad visited with Art Lewis on WSGW 790 to help promote the benefit fund raiser during the other. The hospitality exhibited that night by the Saginaw Spirit staff members was second to none; they are truly a top-shelf operation that the Mid-Michigan region is fortunate to have. I would like to finish this article by personally thanking again all of the people involved in Tyler’s night out. You all reminded this veteran police officer that courage, compassion, and kindness still exist. In this line of work, we can sometimes forget that. As police officers, I think we forget sometimes to realize the positive impact we can have on people’s lives with a little effort. Our job allows us to make contacts and network unlike many other professions. I certainly never could have predicted the impact on a 13-year-old boy’s life a simple phone call could make. The night’s events certainly provide evidence of something I always say: “The POAM is a much better friend than foe.” My employment with this organization, and the Saginaw City Police Department put me in a position to be able to really make a difference in someone’s life. They say everything happens for a reason, and how true that is sometimes! Even though the team didn’t win that night, the win I witnessed that evening can’t be measured by any scoreboard, any gate receipt, an NHL contract, or any amount of money. It was the biggest night of Tyler’s Adams’s life, and the most kind and decent thing I’ve ever had the privilege to be part of. I’m sure glad I made that phone call to Dick Garber, and I’m honored to call him my friend.
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Jeanne Mayan
2009/06/06 17:02:08
The announced closing of Garber Buick is one more example of idiotic decisions being made by G.M.'s leadership. As a stockholder and long time GM vehicle owner, I find this to be irresponsible action. I beg you, GM, reconsider and allow Garber Buick to continue making a profit for the Corporation.
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Judy Killmer
2009/06/06 16:40:57
I remember the original Garber dealership in downtown Saginaw & waiting for the paper to come off the windows to see the new models. My father drove Electra 225's, and by brother & me still drive Buicks; they have great quality & reliability. Dealerships don't come any better than Garber's for new & used car sales & service. This makes no sense whatsoever. You can't sell your product out of an empty building. What is GM thinking? No wonder they are in such trouble. If this goes through, I'll never buy another GM product.
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rosalee perdue
2009/06/06 16:07:52
I think it is unfair how GM has picked the dealerships for closing of the Buick line..How can GM decide in such a short amount of time with what appears to not having all the facts to close Garber Buick???? Garber Buick is one of the top selling dealerships for Buick and the reason for this is due to the owner, and all the hard working members of the dealership, who are always there for you, you would be hard pressed to find people as knowledgeable, and very professional caring people.. My husband worked for GM for 38 yrs as a dedicated employee....and Garber Buick has been a dedicatied dealership for GM and look where it has come to...You knew when you purchased your Buick from Garber that you would be covered 110% whatever occured. GM needs to know that Garber Buick dealership would make you proud to have purchased something built in th U.S.A. but maybe that is the problem...... please take into consideration to keep this dealership open the commentment of all and the 102 year histoy should tell you something about Garber Buick they are top notch!!!!!!
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Matt and Marilyn Bordeaux
2009/06/06 16:07:14
We watched and listened in dismay and disbelief the "breaking news" on WNEM TV5 informing the public that Garber Buick is one of the dealerships chosen to be closed by General Motors. We likened it to hearing tragic news about an old friend. We have purchased our last five cars from Garber Buick of Saginaw and have never received less than 100% professionalism and satisfaction from all of the Garber staff from the moment we walked in the door of the dealership until the moment we left. To say that the Garber Buick family is a class act is an understatement. In our experience, when you drive away from the Garber dealership in that new vehicle you just purchased you know, from the way you have been treated, that you are now considered part of that family and that the exemplary care and service you have just received won't end at that "point of sale".
We would like to say thank you to Dick, Mike, Roger and ALL of the Garber Buick family for enriching our community and our lives for so many years. You comprise the epitomization of what General Motors should be striving to be. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all that this rash "error in judgement" decision by General Motors will be rescinded and reversed. God be with you in this difficult time.
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Brian McGee
2009/06/06 15:33:59
My wife Jillann has been employed by Garber Buick for about five years now. I, like you, am having a very hard time with GM cutting their Buick dealership. I have had the privilege of getting to know many people involved in the Garber organization. I quickly found out why Garber has the unbelievable reputation it has had for over one hundred years. Their employees from top to bottom are friendly and professional individuals who's customer service is unmatched. I feel that GM is making a very reckless decision eliminating this dealership based on what brand they sell instead of the success of their business. Not to mention the phenomenal job Dick Garber does representing GM day in and day out. I cannot think of another family or any business for that matter, that has given more for their community than the Garber family. Loosing this dealership will not benefit GM in any possible way.
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Jack Provenzano CPA
2009/06/06 14:54:30
My family has been part of the Saginaw business community since 1920. My association with Garber Buick goes back to when I bought my first car from Dick Garber in 1978. Dick was a salesman at the time. He started out just like his grandfather.
Currently, I drive a 2006 Buick Lucerne. The service I have received from Garber Buick has been excellent. I also like the fact that I am supportting someone like Dick Garber, as he has done more for our community than anyone else I know.
Dick has been leading from the front0-bringing the Saginaw Spirit hockey team to a lifeless arena. Donating property for the Saginaw Children Museum and building the Garber Headquarters in downtown Saginaw. These are two of many examples of his dedication to the community.
I believe that the exception to the GM Restructuring would be to continue to have Dick Garber selling Buicks in Saginaw. I believe that
the loss of the Dick Garber family would be devastating to the Saginaw area.
To General Motors I say :
Good luck on your emergence from bankruptcy. A healthy General Motors is best for all of us. God bless you.
You have a friend in Saginaw,
Jack Provenzano
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stephanie ( Bay City)
2009/06/06 14:28:50
It is decisions such as this that has led GM on it's downward spiral. Businesses should care about their franchise's customers satisfaction, dedicated,community minded owners, and honest, respected sales end service employees. I can not believe any rational thought was used in GM's decision to no longer sell Buick's at Garber...when you think Buick you think Garber apparently they were not thinking at all...
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terry lynes
2009/06/06 11:07:23
It's a shame that politics has to get involved in the car business. I think the G.M. management got pressured into eliminating certain dealers; not because of performance... If it was based on number of cars sold and service, then Garber's would have never been given the AX.
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Eric Bitzer
2009/06/06 10:14:31
I have worked in GM dealerships for 36 years. I have to say that when GM announced dealership closing were going to have to happen, I would've never believed that one of those dealers would be "Garber Buick" Saginaw. I think it shows that GM doesn't really know their dealer-body. Garber has always been known, even from another dealers perspective as a top-notch, professionaly run dealership as well as the people that it employs. The Garber family over the years has given large to its community. I hope the best results for the dealership and its owner and of course, all of the people employed there that has made it one of the best Buick stores in the country.
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Harold Burk
2009/06/06 09:32:53
I just brought my second new Buick in January beliving that Garber would be around for the service of it. I had 3 new Olds before that plus 1 new Pontiac. Now GM want to close Garber Buick. Seem like they are forcing me to buy a foreign auto. I have been a loyal GM worker/retiree for over 40 years. I don't want Garber Buick to close especially since it is a good dealership and we don't have another Buick dealer in this area.
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Tim Novak,
2009/06/06 08:52:52
This is a sad day. But it is also a day to fight. Saginaw can ill afford Garber Buick to close. This is one family that is fighting for the future of Saginaw. They invest in things outside of cars. Write or call whomever you can and urge them to keep this award winning dealership and community invester open!
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DICK SAVAGE
2009/06/06 08:52:41
I HAVE DEALT WITH THE GARBER FAMILY FOR YEARS,MY FATHER DID BUSINES WITH MR. GUY GARBER IN THE EARLY DAYS. MY FIRST NEW BUICK WAS A 1967 LASABRE AND FELT VERY COMFORTABLE WORKING WITH THE ENTIRE STAFF. WHEN I MOVED TO FLORIDA IN THE EARLY 90S AND NEEDED WORK DICK GARBER GAVE ME A SALES POSITION AT THE DEALERSHIPS IN GEEN COVE SPRINGS FL. THATS THE OWNER OF A AUTO. DEALERSHIP YOU DONT LET GO ANYWHERE.
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Fr. Bob DeLand
2009/06/06 08:20:12
Dick and Garber Buick
Perhaps I don't understand the corporate world, but I do know good people. You are the "good folk".....and good will always win out. Please accept my prayers as you deal with this rather significant "bump on the road" of life.
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michelle lavigne
2009/06/05 23:25:45
I can not understand why any of us should have to write these letters. It would seem like ranking as one of the top 10 in the Buick Dealerships in the U.S. and being in business for 102 years should put Garber Buick on the top of GM's list. If those two things have no effect on keeping this dealership open, I would hope the people at GM, would consider the 70 employees and their familes and the State Steet corridor that dosn't need another vacant building.
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Dolores E. Kluck
2009/06/05 21:00:52
It is such a disappointmnet to learn that General Motors has withdrawn its franchise from Garber Buick. I have been buying and driving Buick automobiles for over three decades and so have appreciated the courteous, competent, efficient and helpful personnel at Garber's in all areas of the business - sales personnel, repair department and in the body shop.
It makes no sense to eliminate Garber Buick here in Saginaw. I am aware of the many well deserved awards Garber's has earned over the years for their excellent sales and service. However, even as a dedicated Buick owner, there is no way that I will consider going out of town to purchase my next auto and seek service other than here in Saginaw. There are far too many other car dealers looking for customers, and while I prefer driving Buicks, this last action by GM will push me away from purchasing another Buick in the future.
I'm hoping that Garber Buick can talk some sense into the people who have made such a bad decision and that GM will rethink their stupid decision so you will be able to continue to sell Buicks here in Saginaw and be the community leader you have been.
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John & Marcy Desonia
2009/06/05 19:18:56
Couldn't believe they would consider closing out this Buick franchise with Garber! This is the best dealership we have dealt with in the 40+ years we have been buying GM cars. The sales and service staff are great. We wouldn't think of ever changing dealerships!
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Donald Dale Milne
2009/06/05 18:35:56
Unbelievable that GM would close Garber Buick, as it ranks as one of the top 10 Buick dealerships in the United States. In March, it was even number one in sales volume! How in the world do they think they will sell any vehicles if they close dealerships like this one? It's also just ludicrous that a metro area the size of Saginaw would be left without a Buick dealer. I own a Buick and previously owned 2 Oldsmobiles until GM killed that brand. It appears they are trying very hard to get me to buy a Toyota next!
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Julie Stevens
2009/06/05 16:59:25
Dear Dick,
I was up north when I heard the news on TV and immediately called a lot of my friends including my new son-in-law Brian Eggers. We cannot believe it and it is just one more thing in this upside down world where we find ourselves all trying to hang on... We have to all pull together and hope that things will turn around and there will be mroe sense in what is ahead of us all. Your investment in your business and the community is astounding and this is not fair in any way. We are hoping that the decision can be reversed in some way once we know who is in charge. Julie Stevens
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Lindsey Sweet
2009/06/05 16:38:37
Michigan needs dealerships like Garber to keep people in Saginaw working. I guess the government wants to pay more unemployement?
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Scott Trinklein
2009/06/05 16:14:19
... They(GM)are absolutely crazy to close a dealership that actually builds long-lasting relationships with their customers. As a Garber Buick customer, I can honestly say that no other dealership in Mid-Michigan has given me the level of service that I receive here – Garber Buick is the only dealership I trust! And that says a lot when a business builds relationships and trust with their customers.
It really strikes me as odd that GM is trying to build upon Buick’s entry-level luxury image and then severs their relationship with a Flagship dealer. The Garber Buick facilities are the nicest and most comfortable in our area (comfy chairs in the waiting area, wireless internet access, cubicles for customer use, etc). I just don’t get it.
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Jan Daniels
2009/06/05 15:17:38
This is absolutely absurd!! Obviously, the Federal Government has no idea what they are doing. What can we do as citizens to get this "closing" rescinded? We cannot let government destroy capitalism.
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Leslie Hersh
2009/06/05 14:07:19
Saginaw needs Garber Buick. Why?
Informed, competent, customer oriented sales staff
Dependable, efficient service department
Long family history of standing behind the product they sell
Long family history of major contributions to the community
Garber Buick is a sales leader because they supply Buicks to a community that very much likes to buy Buicks from them. There is a proven customer need; that need will result in a significant number of GM cars being sold and an ongoing need for service for those vehicles.
Certainly it is in General Motor's best interest to retain this business.
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Leslie McDonald
2009/06/05 14:00:03
This decision by Buick makes absolutely NO sense to me. Garber has consistently been one of the top Buick dealerships in sales and service throught the COUNTRY. They have invested a considerable amount of money and built a beautiful dealership, representing Buick in an exceptional manner. The management and staff of the dealership are well trained; the service department is one of the best in the country. Dick Garber deserves better than this. I find it hard to believe that Buick wouldn't want Garber to represent them - what kind of criteria did they use to base this decision on? GM is making a horrible mistake and I hope they wise up soon.
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bart currie
2009/06/05 13:42:16
Obviously, General Motors has problems. One possible reason for GM's demise is GM's inability to react in a timely fashion to its customer's needs and wants. We all know GM needs to downsize. I was hoping that the NEW SMALLER GM would be better equiped to deal with the customer's needs and wants. Blanket decision making from afar is not an effective way of dealing with or servicing the customer. Hopefully, this appeal process will prove to me that GM is a new GM.
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Dale Hernden
2009/06/05 13:32:24
Many of us are forced to make difficult business decisions on a daily basis. We try to be objective and thorough in determining the facts.
I'm sure that somewhere within the bowels of GM someone has developed maps, ratios, percentages and forecasts and tried to reach objective conclusions. But what you haven't measured in this decision is leadership, integrity, and loyalty.
The Garber organization has been the heart and soul of Buick and General Motors in mid-Michigan for 102 years. There could be no better representative of your organization than Garber Buick.
Buick has made some very poor decisions in the past and its been difficult to maintain brand loyalty. Please don't make another one.
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Francisco H. Barrera
2009/06/05 13:30:42
Since the inception of knowing that many GM dealerships would close, never in my wildest dreams that I thought that Garber Buick of Saginaw would be chosen. Garber Buick IS MORE than just a car dealership...it is an icon in this community. From the leadership of Dick Garber, who I believe is the "real deal" of a professional, to the people who work for him, is what makes Garber Buick one of the most successful car dealerships and active community leaders we have today. If I could do more to prevent this dealership from closing, I would. I feel these thoughts are just not enough.
A passionate believer in Garber Buick, and a friend of Dick Garber
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Barbara Krzyzaniak
2009/06/05 12:35:52
How can a government owned corporation even consider this decision? Who drew this dealership out of the hat? For 102 years Garber's rank at the top; but now they face closure. Efforts that made Garber NUMBER 1 in Sales, Service and Customer Satisfaction, seem to have been forgotton with this selection. The community has come to know this name not only for the product it sells and services, but for the family behind the scene that takes care of GM's product.
I am just a whisper in the crowd, but I could think of a much better plan to make GM solvent than but cutting this fine dealership and its staff.
The community stands behind Garber Buick and its long standing in the Saginaw area. This selection is a mistake not only to the Buick product line but to those who have chosen and drove Buicks for years.
To GM, reconsider the Garber standing with the Buick line and instead of closing them, consider sending one of the other GM product lines to Garber's. In doing so, you may find an increase in sales and satisfaction with that product line as well.
I speak from experience, as I have been a member of the Garber family for over 28 years. And this is a family that I have grown to love.
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William L. Ruger
2009/06/05 11:54:28
I have been a customer of Garber Buick dealer in Saginaw, Michigan for many years. I feel rejected by GM's closure of this very excellent dealership. I have been buying my Buicks from them for many years and have developed a good rapport with my personal salesman and their service department. They have provided wonderful service to me in all ways. I feel that they are family to me as I can just drop in and chat at any time and see how things are going.
I cannot fathom how the decision to close this particular dealership was made. They have been tops in sales and service for many years. Mr. Garber has done so much for the City of Saginaw and the area. His people are always very helpful and friendly. Their service department is noted for being fair to their customers. It is a modern and clean facility, tops in Saginaw and the country. We have had occasion on trips to stop at other Buick dealers and haven’t found another that can measure up to them.
I don’t understand the criteria that was used to lead to their closure but it sure wasn’t one which leads to excellent GM service to the customer. I hope that GM can reevaluate this closure and spend some time actually visiting this storied dealer to see why we Saginaw customers are upset with your decision.
My salesman at Garber is Mike Lazorchak. He has become a true friend and not just a salesman. He has always helped us to select the best product for our needs. He is also a sounding board for any automotive issues that we have had.
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Timothy Ader
2009/06/05 11:45:22
Garber Buick has been extremely loyal to GM and Saginaw County for over 100 years!! For GM to pull the franchise and leave Buick owners without the dealership that they have grown to love and trust is very sad. There is a personality element that will be lost and will not be recreated at another location. Dick Garber deserves much more respect than this decision is showing him. He has always been a gentleman and Saginaw needs him as their Buick representative to maintain their faith in the company. GM will destroy 100 years of family tradition and customer loyalty with this decision! GM please consider what effects this move will have on Saginaw and Buick customers in the area. Garber Buick has earned the right to the Buick nameplate and is #1 in the country.
GM Retiree
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Ann Doyle
2009/06/05 11:37:27
When I heard the news on Tuesday, I like others was stunned. Why GM would cut a business that contributes to their bottom line as much as Garber Buick does just simply makes no sense. To make matters worse for GM, I don't know too many people in the northern half of Saginaw County that would travel to Frankenmuth to purchase a Buick and then have to take it there for maintenance.
I am writing GM today because I think they made a great mistake and I truely hope they reverse their decision.
On a side note, it is my opinion that Dick is a person we all could learn from. He puts so many before himself and I truely believe that he should be called Mr. Saginaw.
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Chris Thompson
2009/06/05 11:30:31
Your family's auto dealership has been a solid anchor in this community's commercial scene for 100 years. The Garber connection is legendary and has helped this region in countless ways through that long, honorable period of service. A loss of Garber Buick would mean more than a losing a place to purchase automobiles. It would be a death in the Saginaw family and its hope for the future. You are more than a General Motors dealership that provides reliable transportation. Losing Garber Buick would be a major rip the fabric of our community. Local businesses such as yours are more than a provider of products we need to function. The Garber family has been a benefactor to the Saginaw community in countless ways. You have made Saginaw a better place to live, thanks in no small part to your GM connection. Michigan -- and America -- cannot recover from our current economic crisis without contributions such as yours. Saginaw needs Garber Buick ... it is part of our community's lifeblood.
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Bob Marcoux
2009/06/05 10:28:01
I was astonished to hear that GM was terminating its relationship with Garber Buick, Saginaw. I was born in Saginaw and have resided in the area all my life. Garber has always been a prominent feature in that time. I have thoroughly enjoyed my visits to purchase Buicks from Garber and my salesman Roger Rupel. I have been loyal to GM but it seems as if GM has not been loyal to its customers in Saginaw.
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Avy Wyatt
2009/06/05 10:17:52
I am very disappointed by GM's decision. Garber has excellent customer service. The sales people, especially John Weiss, are friendly and helpful. The service department is run by an excellent manager. I can't believe that GM is willing to let one of the best dealerships in this area go.
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Travis George
2009/06/05 08:22:08
Greetings, This is very disapointing news. Dick and the Garber family have been a landmark in the Saginaw area. When I was a young child I truely thought that Garber was a brand of car, and Buick was the model. Dick you know you can call on me for what ever you need to help.
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Bob Charles
2009/06/04 15:35:59
Wow... this is just amazing. Did'nt Garber loan Buick the money they needed to stay in buisness back about 70 or 80 years ago? GM has a short memory.
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