The only thing better than buying your dream car is helping a fellow Calgarian. Last month, you did just that.

Thanks to the generous support of our customers and our partnership with the Bank of Montreal, the Dilawri Automotive Group raised over $53,000 for two local charities in June: Gerry Forbes’ Secret Wish program on CJAY 92, which helps families bridge the gap during incredibly tough times and XL 103 Radio’s Don and Joanne’s Golf a Kid to Camp tournament, a fundraiser for Kids Cancer Care which sends kids who are battling cancer to camp. 

On July 10, 2012, Tony Dilawri and Mike Suzuki, District Vice-President of BMO, were pleased to present a cheque to Gerry Forbes and the morning crew.

“Many slip through the cracks with other agencies and with Dilawri’s help, we are saving lives and giving a lot of needy folks a hand up,” says Gerry Forbes. The Secret Wish program which began as a Christmas initiative quickly grew into a year-round program based on the need in the community.

The challenge is that hardship doesn't just occur at Christmas; it's year round. So every Friday at 7:40 a.m. you can tune in to hear a new Secret Wish being granted.

Listeners nominate families who are going through tough times for a Secret Wish. The families who benefit often are facing bleak circumstances due to illness or disabilities. In the words of one grateful recipient: “CJAY 92’s kindness has touched our hearts and given us strength to go forward with hope and a sense of renewal.” Thank you for helping to grant more wishes.

For more information on the program, please visit
Gerry Forbes' Secret Wish website at CJAY92.

Next month: Don & Joanne’s Golf a Kid to Camp

Now that the beautiful summer weather has arrived, you're likely to get out and travel around this great province and country. Whether it's a day-trip to Banff, or a long road trip to Vancouver, make sure you are car-ready.

When it comes time to pack the car, gather the kids, and get ready to hit the road, do not forget to go through a brief Pre-Trip Checklist. We have gathered a brief list of items to check before you take off on your journey. 

1) Get your oil changed before your trip

Modern oil and modern cars can go much longer between changes than in the old days. Most factory specifications are 10,000 km or more between changes. But if it's been more than 5,000 km, go get it done before the trip. That way, you know your vehicle is full of oil, the engine will run cooler, and you will get better fuel economy with fresh oil in the motor. 

2) Check and top off all the other fluids

If you run out of gear oil, or run low on coolant it can lead to expensive problems while you should be relaxing.

3) Check the tires

Make sure your tires are fully inflated before you go. Not only will you get better mileage, but an under-inflated tire, plus an increased load, plus lots of highway travel can cause the tire to wear out very fast and fail.

While you are checking the air pressure, look for bulges and cuts in the side walls, often times caused by hitting pot holes or curbs. Don't chance it, if you have a bulge or a cut, get a new tire before the trip. Most tires these days get dry and cracked, or beat up before the tread goes bald. Make sure you have plenty of tread. 

4) Check the spare

Make sure your spare has air in it, and make sure you have your jack and lug wrench.

5) Bring your cell phone charger

The weaker the signal your phone gets, the more power it takes to send and receive calls. The last thing you want if you become stranded, is having no way of contacting any help.

6) Check the belt

Cars today have just one long belt that runs all the accessories. If it breaks not only will you lose the AC, but also the power steering, and most importantly, the charging system. 

7) Check hoses

Like the belts and tires, make sure they don't look cracked and dry, or swollen or bulging. 

Seem like a lot to remember? Stop by Hyundai Gallery before your trip and we will be happy to make sure your car is ready to go. Happy travels!