What is a Runde Monkey you ask?  Runde Auto Group has given out little stuffed Runde monkeys over the years to kids who are with their parents as they visit the dealership for service or when they’re purchasing a new vehicle.  The Runde Monkeys are normally outfitted with a small Runde bandana. The original band of Runde give-away stuffed “Monkey with Bandana” toys seemed dazed and confused today as a replacement model arrived on the scene. It seems that “Plain White T stuffed Monkey with Logo” toy will be taking their place as the first shipment came in. It’s always tough getting older, but it’s even more difficult to accept getting replaced by someone with less on-the-job experience. [...]

East Dubuque is having an Independence Day Celebration on Sunday, June 28th from 1pm ’til dusk. Runde’s is very excited that we are sponsoring and donating to this event but we are even more excited to go to it. We were so anxious for the event that we decided to kidnap Casey Klein, board member of the East Dubuque Business and Tourism Group, in order to gain more information about the event. So raise your hand if you don’t like to have fun. Those of you who raised your hand can stop reading this post now, thank you for your time. For the remaining fun-loving individuals still here, listen up.   So Casey, can you describe for me what the Old Fashioned Independence [...]

Michael Steiner from Potosi Wisconsin is one of the nicest college students I have ever had the privilege of getting to know. Recently, Michael sat down with me for a quick interview so that any wide web surfers like you could get to know him a little. Alright Michael, so why don’t you start by telling us what brought you to Runde’s today? I bought a Ford Focus. What led you to that car? Mine kind of went out on me. The price was right and the miles are right for the Focus.  It’s a good car. What are you going to use the car for? Pretty much going back and forth from school to work. Why did you look to Runde’s instead of other dealerships? A couple days ago I drove through all the lots in Dubuque and Lancaster, WI.   Turned out that Runde’s had a couple of cars that caught my [...]

Today I had the privilege of getting to know Mike and Traci Hernandez from Dyersville, IA who purchased a vehicle from Runde’s today as I sat down for an interview with them. This fun family had a lot character so they fit in perfectly at our fun and active dealership. What did you guys come to Runde’s today for? For the purchase of a vehicle. The used Saturn Vue. How was your experience at Runde’s? It was one of the few times I had to buy a car in my life so I don’t have much to compare it to. It was good, no problems. Your sales-person was Al Kloft, what you think of Al? He likes to talk! He’s a pretty good guy, we like him. He’s always eager to please. So, what led you to Runde’s in the first place?

What are Baskets Of Care?  Well in order to understand that, you’ll first need some background information about Dubuque’s very own Maria House. It’s almost time to decorate those eggs and indulge in candy – Easter is approaching quickly (April 12th) and some people may not get the opportunity to celebrate the holiday.  That’s why organizations like Maria House here in Dubuque, Iowa are starting to gather materials to build baskets.  The baskets are intended for families who receive aid from Maria House so that everyone can celebrate Easter and have fun during the Easter holiday. Sherry McDonell who has been a member of Maria House since before it opened explained to us the way the organization works.  Sherry, who “absolutely loves working for Maria [...]

Has Friday the 13th got you down?  Black cats, ladders and mirrors couldn’t stop the employee’s at Runde’s from coming in to work to help meet the needs of our customers. That doesn’t mean, however, that they do not believe in superstition.  The following video will show you the superstitions roaming around peoples minds at Runde Auto Group.   If you’re not sure where all the superstition came about from “a number attached to a day”, then you’re not alone. I had no idea why this day is associated with misfortune and bad luck … that is until I looked it up. I always assumed it had something to do with the Friday the 13th movies with Jason stalking campers.  But after much research and a quick visit to Wikipedia, I found out what all the hubbub is about.  Turns out that the reason why people dread the occurrence of Friday the [...]

Pat Timmerman – one of the longest lasting and friendliest faces at Runde Chevrolet. This week we got a chance to pull him away for a little bit to get to know him better. What do you do here at Runde’s? I’m the nut in the squirrel farm! I am the service manager aka “fixed operations” for the four stores. I make sure that customers are taken care of and always have staff in place to accommodate to the customer for their convenience. How long have you been doing this gig? Oh I’m not even sure… lets see… since ’96? yea, since 96 – so about 13 years. One of the originals, huh? You’ve been here so long, have you always been from the area? Yeah, [...]

How awesome would it be if you had a teacher in high school that let you play games in class? In a society being driven by a formula of technology and entertainment, it is important to teach our kids with something that integrates this formula to interact and visually communicate with our kids. The “Activboard”, by Promethean, is a perfect solution for the seamless integration of fun and technology in the classroom. These boards are a fully interactive and totally immersive means to teaching using an up-to-date and involving method of course structure. Runde is helping out in this exciting new way of teaching by donating the money needed to purchase one of these boards to the East Dubuque High School. Students at the East Dubuque High School can claim as to how “awesome” it is to play with the board as they have had one for about a year and a half now. According to [...]

The sixth annual Ice Golf Classic at Midtown Marina was a huge success according to Sandy McDowell, owner of the Marina.  Naked babies flinging arrows at lovers and enough “love” in the air to make Romeo sick didn’t stop people from smacking around tennis balls while playing golf on the ice.   The tournament was originally mapped out in 2004 by a group of men from the area, named the A.M. Hacker, who were just not satisfied by the restrictions winter seemed to place on their golf game. The group got together and started the Ice Golf Classic event shortly after they realized that they could raise money for a good cause while giving people the time of their lives as they play golf on the [...]

Buying a first car for your kid can be a nerve-racking process and making up your mind about how much horsepower is too much can definitely cause stress. Worries of them being in a safe, reliable car can lead to an endless search of what you should buy and with what features. To ease the process a bit, here are some quick tips to follow while making a decision on purchasing your kid’s first vehicle. 1. Size (buy a tank) Several people may think that mid or small-sized cars are the way to go in terms of a first car as they are the “common” type of car that people are comfortable driving. In actuality, however, having a larger car might be a better bet for your kids if you are thinking safety. Larger cars often absorb more force impact from accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration these beasts score significantly better than compact or small sized vehicles. [...]

The announcement of the Corvette Centennial concept car at the Chicago Auto Show, introduced by GM, has received various opinions here at Runde. When employees were asked what their opinion was about the concept car there was emotion in the air. Some were taken back, like Al Dellabella of Runde Buick, who said “That looks like something from the 60’s with the front fender and the torpedo rear window.” Others were shocked by the build. They call it a concept car for a reason…” The car is modeled from the original 1959 Stingray racer and will be featured in the upcoming movie Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen which will be released on June 26th. The Corvette will be the character Sideswipe from the movie (shown below).  There is no plan of the [...]

Becky Kuhl who works in the upstairs office of Runde Chevrolet in East Dubuque was kind enough to give us a little of her time and a little insight into what makes her tick.  It’s been said here at Runde’s that Becky is “so very Mary Tyler Moore”.   You can be the judge as you checkout what she had to say:   What do you do here at Runde’s?   I am the Incentive Administrator for Runde Chevrolet. Basically, I report to GM the new Chevrolet units that are sold and then I apply for the correct incentives for each model. For some customer rebates, certain documents are required. I’m the one who ensures that customers present us with the proper documentation at the time of the sale.  [...]

Check out the most recent reviews from Runde Customers. These reviews come from a variety of sources. Some are from reviews that customers posted online and others are from surveys that were mailed out to customers.  Whatever the case, it seems the word on the street about Runde’s is all good.   My fiance, Don Stadel bought his new truck at Runde’s last October or November …. Looking forward to doing more business with Runde’s…We were so pleased with your service and honesty. It was nice to work with such an awesome team….Don was a Ford man and I changed his mind….CHEVY IS THE BEST !!!! and he is so pleased of his choice….we do BRAG on the choice that we have made….. [...]

This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Iowa-Illinois Regional Auto Show in Davenport, IA.  This automotive extravaganza will be held once again at the River Center February 6th through the 8th.   If you are in the that area this weekend, definitely check it out. Runde Auto Group unfortunately won’t be represented at this auto show as it would be a bit of a long-distance haul to take our new vehicles all the way to the Davenport area.  So why are we taking the time to mention this auto show that’s approximately 70 miles away?  It’s funny you should ask.   Each year the Iowa-Illinois Regional Auto Show hands out at least one scholarship to a student planning to attend college or an automotive technical trade school.  This award is intended for a student who is actively involved in academic and extra-curricular activities.  The individual also is required to demonstrate achievement in [...]

We received the following note of thanks this week from the daughter of one of our newest customers … Barbara Schroeder.   We just want to let you now we are so happy with our mother’s purchase.  Wayne Konrardy of your Dubuque area store was great.    Our mother (Barbara Schroeder) was in a car accident and totaled her Chevrolet Malibu which she had purchased through Wayne, and we were able to have Wayne help us again to get her another Malibu which she really wanted because she really liked her other one.   Wayne was great with MOM and made her feel great even though it was a bad situation.  He was able to get her into something 4 years newer and very close in options plus she got heated seats and [...]

We all knew that once the world oil prices started to plummet, fuel prices would soon follow.   It’s nice to finally look up at gas station signs and see  numbers that don’t begin with “3” or “4” as the national average for gas is now at $1.67 a gallon.  Certainly no one is complaining about the current prices after what Americans painfully paid at the pumps for most  of 2008.  In light of all that’s going on in the world right now, it’s definitely nice to have some economic relief somewhere.  With Americans now bragging about how little they paid during their last trip to the pump, truck and SUV sales are appearing like they will be higher than car sales once the ’08 December totals are all [...]

Is the Key2SafeDriving the answer parents of teenagers are looking for?  Most parents dread the day their babies begin driving, and worry constantly each time they get behind the wheel. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of teen deaths, the 5th leading cause of total deaths in our country, and driving is often a privilege that gets abused by many people. On top of that, 6 percent of drivers on the road are talking on their cell phones while driving, and 10 percent of driving teenagers are either talking or texting. Xuesong Zhou, an assistant professor at the University of Utah, realized these statistics and developed a gadget to help decrease the numbers. He and a recent graduate, Wally Curry, created a cost-effective solution to these issues. The Key2SafeDriving is a gadget that attaches to the car key, and communicates via Bluetooth or RFID (radio-frequency identification) with the cell phone. The engine will only [...]

Chris Anderson can usually be found at the Hazel Green used car near Dubuque. I sat down with him for a few minutes this morning, so you all can get to know him better! Runde Auto Chat: How long have you worked for Runde’s? Chris Anderson: Just over a year RAC: What does your job entail? CA: I do a lot of the buying, and I also manage some of the deals the salesmen have going. RAC: What are your favorite parts of your job? CA: I like the people I work with, being a part of a successful business, and the company offers a lot of opportunities. RAC: What kind of vehicle do you currently drive? CA: Right now I drive a Suzuki SX4 hatchback because of the good gas mileage.  I drive about 35 [...]

Every wonder what are the safety leaders or the safest vehicles on the market?  The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ran their annual tests on the 2009 model year vehicles. For the first time in history, they have been able to pick at least one vehicle in every class. The tests are based on 11 categories, including front side, reach crash test rations, and whether or not the vehicles have standard or optional electronic stability control. Here are Runde’s Safety Leaders!! Large Cars  Ford Taurus — Optional AWD, 28 MPG, and standard stability control Midsize Cars  Ford Fusion — Optional AWD, 29 MPG, optional stability control Large SUVs  Buick Enclave & Chevrolet Traverse — 7 or 8 passenger, FWD-24 MPG, AWD-22 MPG, 3.6-Liter V6, 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive Midsize SUVs Ford Flex & Taurus X — 7 passengers, 3.5-Liter V6, FWD-24 MPG, AWD-22 MPG, 6 speed automatic transmission with overdrive Ford Edge — [...]

More than 335,000 Americans are employed by the Big 3 Automakers in our country, and Runde Auto Group employs over 120 people in the Tri-State Area. One out of ten people in America are employed in a service that is related to the U.S. auto industry. Please show your support:   and select “I’m a Concerned American” or call: (866) 874-9356!   Imagine what the lack of competition will do the the cost of your next vehicle….no matter what the make is.  The lack of any new domestic makes, will force Americans to buy new imports or used vehicles.  Every American should ask themselves: Will I have to wait longer for my new vehicle because there is a backorder on parts for it?  Will I have to pay substantially more than the suggested list price or book value because of a possible vehicle shortage?   If we were to lose the Big 3, [...]

Timmerman’s Supper Club in East Dubuque just off of Hwy 20 has been a mainstay of the Tri-State community for many, many years.  When Supper Clubs were the rage or the cat’s pajamas back in the 1970’s, Timmerman’s was normally packed with locals who were looking for good times and great food.  There used to be nightly live music from jazz to big band and couples would sip cocktails and enjoy their meals before heading out to the dance floor to trip the light fantastic.  Well supper clubs may have changed a little, but they still continue to thrive in the Dubuque & East Dubuque area and Timmerman’s is arguably the most popular one.  It is also on the Runde short list of favorite for places to eat. I [...]

Dale Bird was in our dealership waiting for his vehicle to get finished in service. I stole a few minutes of his time to discuss his experience with Runde’s. Runde Auto Chat: What kind of vehicle are you having serviced? Is it a routine appointment? Dale Bird: It’s a Chevy Impala. It just needed an oil change. RAC: Did you buy the vehicle at Runde Chevrolet? DB: Yes, I bought it new here. RAC: Have you bought any other vehicles from us? DB: Yes, probably about 4 or 5. RAC: What do you appreciate most about Runde’s and how they do business? DB: It’s convenient. I live about 2 miles from here in Dubuque. RAC: Do you have any children or grandchildren? DB: We have 3 boys, and 2 grandchildren: 1 boy and 1 girl. They live in Indianapolis, Indiana. RAC: What kinds of activities are they involved in? DB: Lots of sports, but [...]

The following appeared in the October edition of the Camp Courageous monthly newsletter regarding our salesman, Al Kloft: “Al Kloft and his wife, Sherry, of Dubuque dropped off cases of footballs, hats, stuffed toy Runde monkeys, and clothes for camp.  The Klofts have been long time supporters of camp.  A special thank you to Tim Runde and Runde Auto Group for providing many of the items for campers … the campers love the gifts!”   Camp Courageous is a year-round recreational and respite care facility for individuals of all ages with disabilities.  The camp is located in Monticello, IA and it is a not-for-profit organization.    It was founded on and continues to run on donations. Anyone with a disability can attend.  Vision, mental, physical, and other disabilities are typical of [...]

Dave Frazier who works in the Chevy Sales department at our store in East Dubuque welcomed the arrival of his 1st son, Jackson Frazier, last month.  Dave says that he is doing well and he’s currently 20″ tall and weighs about 9 pounds.   Runde Auto Chat: What are your son’s hobbies are so far? Dave Frazier:  Jackson enjoys laying around, eating, pooping, and sleeping.    RAC:  I guess it’s getting sort of cold for long walks in the park.  Does he have any hidden talents? DF:  I’m not sure about that, but he sure has a lot of hair. RAC:  What’s his favorite food? DF:  Right now he’s hitting the Similac Formula pretty hard. RAC:  You have a daughter, correct?  How is she reacting to the new baby?

Kurt Larson of Runde Chevrolet works behind-the-scenes in the Runde Auto Group detailing department. He is just starting college, but finds time to come back to Runde’s on breaks. ME: How long have you worked for Runde’s? What is your favorite part of your job? Kurt Larson: I’ve worked for them for about 4 years and I like getting to drive all the different cars. ME: Where do you go to school? Kurt Larson: Augustana College in Rock Island. ME: Do you have a major picked yet? Kurt Larson: Yeah, I’m going into Pre-Dentistry. ME: Do you play any sports at school? Kurt Larson: Only intramurals; Flag Football and basketball. ME: Who do you think will run for president in 2012? Kurt Larson: I think President Obama will probably run again, and maybe Hilary. I don’t know for the Republican side. ME: Do [...]