Whether you venture into the great outdoors every winter to pick out the best Christmas tree for your home or start a new tradition this year, nothing beats getting bundled up in cozy winter gear and getting a tree. Then, you can take it home and decorate it with your favorite ornaments, strands of garland, and everything else that makes your tree uniquely yours. Our team at Brewster Ford wants to help you find the best tree farms this year, so we compiled a list of the top five Christmas tree farms in and around Brewster, New York.

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm

Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm is about a 25-minute drive from Brewster to Yorktown Heights. The farm is ready for individuals to come and select their trees the day after Thanksgiving. Be sure to make reservations at the farm because of the limited supply of trees. There’s a reservation fee, which the farm uses as a credit for your tree purchase. You can use the farm’s website to book your time slot. For trees, choose between a Douglas or a Fraser fir tree. At this farm, you get to experience cutting down your own Christmas tree.

You can also choose from a selection of pre-cut trees. While at the Wilkens Fruit & Fir Farm, you can pick out wreaths and strands of garland to purchase and decorate your home. Additionally, there’s a bakery on the farm, and you can buy delicious sweets, such as:

• Apple cider doughnuts.
• Fancy-dipped apples.
• Strudel sticks.
• Fudge.

Enjoy a fresh cup of apple cider with every tree purchase. There are two other stores to browse while you’re here: the Apple Farm Market and Country Market, where you can purchase items like wreaths and other holiday decorations.

Hours: Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and closed on Tuesday

Address: 1335 White Hill Road, Yorktown Heights

Maple Row Farm

Get in the car and head to Easton, Connecticut, to visit the Maple Row Farm, which is about a 40-minute drive. This Christmas tree farm is a fun place where you can cut down your own tree with your loved ones. When you pick out your favorite tree, the farm can wrap it up for you at no extra charge. The types of trees available at this farm are:

• Balsam fir.
• Canaan fir.
• Douglas fir.
• Fraser fir.
• Norway spruce.
• White fir.
• White pine.

There’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy at the Maple Row Farm, including:

• Going on weekend hayrides through more than 200 acres.
• Tailgating.
• Purchasing wreaths and ornaments.
• Eating yummy snacks and drinking hot chocolate.

The weekdays and weekends have different pricing options based on the farm’s availability, such as only allowing tailgating on the weekends and offering an admission discount on the weekdays. While there are fewer attractions during the week, you can get the admission discount and enjoy the quieter farm as you’re searching for the perfect tree.

Hours: Every day from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Address: 229 Stepney Road, Easton, Connecticut

Abel’s Trees

Abel’s Trees is a 40-minute drive from Brewster to Verbank, New York. There are several fun activities to do at this farm, including tailgating. If you wish to tailgate here, the farm prefers if you let the staff know about your plans due to limited space and not having open fires. Some other winter activities to enjoy here include drinking free hot cocoa, eating freshly baked goods, going on wagon rides, and browsing handcrafted decorations, like wreaths and garlands.

The trees you can find at this Christmas tree farm are:

• Balsam fir.
• Blue spruce.
• Canaan fir.
• Concolor fir.
• Douglas fir.
• Fraser fir.
• Norway spruce.
• Serbian spruce.
• White spruce.

You can shop for trees during the weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas, but if you prefer shopping for a tree on a weekday, the farm asks you to make reservations using the site.

Hours: Open weekends from Nov. 25 to Christmas Day from 9 a.m. until dark

Address: 435 N. Clove Road, Verbank

Fairview Tree Farm LLC

Drive about 45 minutes from Brewster to Shelton, Connecticut, to pick out a Christmas tree at the Fairview Tree Farm LLC. This farm offers many winter activities to get you into the festive spirit and add to your enjoyment while picking out your tree. Here, you can go on a hayride with Santa, browse the Christmas Shoppe to pick out wreaths and ornaments, and drink hot chocolate while eating delicious apple cider doughnuts.

Find your perfect Christmas tree in one of these tree types:

• Blue spruce.
• Fraser fir.
• Norway spruce.
• White spruce.

Reservations outside of the hayrides aren’t required.

Hours: Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed Monday through Thursday.

Address: 2 Sawmill City Road, Shelton

Jones Family Farms

The Jones Family Farms is also a 45-minute drive from Brewster to Shelton, Connecticut. Here, you can cut down your own Fraser fir tree or choose from a selection of pre-cut trees. You can also enjoy a hayride and tractor ride during your visit. The farmers keep the trees inside a nursery for two years before they plant them in the ground. Each summer, farmers hand-prune the trees for eight to 10 years. When you purchase a tree here, you can find fresh-smelling trees with strong needle retention.

Other types of Christmas trees at this farm are:

• Angel white pine.
• Douglas fir.
• Balsam fir.
• Blue spruce.

The farm’s tree season goes through Dec. 24, but to help you save time and money, reserve your time to get your tree.

Hours: Depends on your reservation time

Address: 606 Walnut Tree Hill Road, Shelton

So, there you have it. Our team’s choices of the top five Christmas tree farms in and around Brewster, New York. What do you think of our list? Here at Brewster Ford, we value our customer’s opinions, so contact us and tell us about your favorite place to shop for your tree each year.

Before heading out into the great outdoors to pick a grand Christmas tree for your home this year, visit our Brewster, New York, dealership. Talk to our team of sales experts to learn about the best way to secure your tree to your vehicle for a safe trip back home. Or, browse our new or pre-loved inventory to give yourself a gift this holiday season.

Photo Credit: Christmas trees prepared for new homes by Sean Foster is licensed with Unsplash License

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Purchasing a used vehicle can be a very wise financial decision. Typically, pre-owned cars cost a fraction of what the same vehicle in the latest model year costs brands new. However, there are some unknowns when buying a used car. Has it been in any accidents? Has it sustained water damage? Have there been any major repairs or part replacements? Is the title clean? Luckily, we here at Brewster Ford can help you get a CARFAX used vehicle report to help you get all the details on the vehicle you’re considering before you make your purchase.

What’s a CARFAX Used Vehicle Report?

A CARFAX used vehicle report is a comprehensive document listing all accidents, model recalls, damage, title issues, previous services, and past owners. It’s incredibly helpful for prospective buyers to have this report to make an informed decision about whether the vehicle is worth the asking price or has too much liability based on past accidents. We here at Brewster Ford are happy to provide CARFAX used vehicle reports for our pre-owned cars, trucks, crossovers, and SUVs to help you make an informed decision about the vehicle you’re interested in purchasing.

What Information Is Included in a CARFAX Used Vehicle Report?

CARFAX used vehicle reports include a substantial amount of information prospective buyers can use to make a smart used vehicle buying decision. You can expect to see information and details on a CARFAX used vehicle report, such as the following:

• History of car accidents.
• Damage history and the severity of that damage.
• Location and point of impact of any damage.
• Records of repaired damage.
• Airbag deployment data.
• Structural damage to the vehicle.
• Oil change history.
• Tire rotation history.
• Open recalls for the make and model.
• Brake rotator replacement history.
• Transmission replacement history.
• Safety inspection history.
• Type of use the vehicle incurred, for example, personal vehicle, rental car, or business vehicle.
• The number of previous owners.
• The names of previous owners.
• States the vehicle was owned in.
• The length that each owner had the vehicle.
• The last reported mileage on the vehicle.
• Any evidence of odometer rollbacks.
• Flood damage.
• Lemon title information.
• Other title information as appropriate to the specific vehicle.

As you can see, a CARFAX used vehicle report is incredibly detailed and can help you understand the car’s life before it arrives on our lot. Understanding the vehicle’s history can help you assess the value of the used car you’re interested in purchasing and decide whether you think it’s the right car for you.

Where Does This Information Come From?

CARFAX gathers its data from an enormous number of reliable sources — over 100,000, in fact. The company uses the vehicle identification number (VIN) to search through appropriate vehicle databases to find valuable information about the car’s history. A few examples of where the used car information found on the report comes from include the following:

• Car manufacturers.
• Police and other law enforcement agencies.
• State inspection services.
• Vehicle auctions.
• Mechanics and other car repair businesses.
• Car dealerships.
• Car rental companies.

Benefits of Receiving a CARFAX Used Vehicle Report

CARFAX used vehicle reports are often indispensable for used car buyers. A few of the primary benefits of getting this report before making your purchase are as follows:

• Vehicle confirmation: A CARFAX used vehicle report makes it easy to verify that you’re purchasing the car you think you’re purchasing. Since CARFAX uses the VIN to gather data, you can quickly compare the VIN on the report to the one on the vehicle and make sure it matches.
• Red flags: Sometimes, used vehicles can look impeccable on the exterior and interior but harbor some mechanical issues under the hood. You’ll learn about any issues when you get a CARFAX used vehicle report.
• Service history: Knowing the service history of the car you want to purchase is incredibly useful. You’ll have the dates of the last oil change, tire rotation, and other regular services to help you plan these future visits for the correct time.
• Mileage verification: While it’s gotten harder and harder to turn back the odometer to make it look like the vehicle has fewer miles than it does, it’s not impossible. The CARFAX report can verify the mileage to ensure you’re not using incorrect information when purchasing the car.
• Title problems: The last thing you want when purchasing a vehicle is to have false information about the vehicle’s title. These issues can be challenging to fix if you discover them after completing the purchase. A CARFAX vehicle report can ensure you don’t buy a car with a bad title.

Used Vehicles at Brewster Ford

We’re proud to offer a range of used vehicles at various price points at Brewster Ford. We have several categories of used cars to help you narrow down what you’re looking for and stay within your budget. The categories of used vehicles you can find are as follows:

• Used cars: Used cars include any vehicle with at least one previous owner. This umbrella category includes all our pre-owned vehicles, and it can give you a good sense of price points and what’s currently available on our lot.
• Certified pre-owned: Certified pre-owned vehicles must pass a thorough multi-point inspection to receive this designation. These are typically the newest cars on our lot and usually, come with generous warranties for which other used cars might not qualify.
• One CARFAX owner: Vehicles in this category have only had one previous owner. These vehicles can be older models or newer models, but they’re often in excellent condition since they’ve only had one person own them in the car’s lifetime.

CARFAX used vehicle reports give buyers peace when searching for their next car. We proudly provide CARFAX used vehicle reports for our used cars at Brewster Ford so that our customers know the exact history of their potential car. Call us or stop by today to learn more about CARFAX vehicle reports and to see the excellent selection of used cars on our lot.

Photo Credit: Ford by Mike Mozart is licensed with CC BY 2.0

Tags: CarFax
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Whether you’re a small business owner who needs to transport cargo or passengers, or a large family looking for a spacious vehicle, the Ford Transit Connect could be just right for you. Developed by Ford as a little brother to the larger and better-known Ford Transit, the Transit Connect combines the advantages of a roomy cargo van with good fuel efficiency and handling for busy city roads. Read on to get to know more about what Transit Connect has to offer.

Ford Transit Connect Engine and Performance

You can choose between two engine options in the Transit Connect . The first is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 162 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque. This is fine for moving around town, but if you want a touch more acceleration for the highway or you plan on carrying heavy loads, you may want to pick the 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder unit. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and can help you reach the Transit Connect’s towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

All Transit Connects come in front-wheel drive, which improves handling in tight spaces. In addition, the Transit Connect is built low to the ground like a car rather than sitting higher up like an SUV or truck. This design style improves maneuverability and helps achieve this van’s impressive 38-foot turning radius.

The Transit Connect’s maximum cargo hauling limit is over 1,500 pounds, which is ideal for a small business owner or tradesperson who needs to carry supplies for their next job. In terms of fuel economy, the base engine achieves up to 29 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg on city roads, while you’ll get 27 mpg and 19 mpg, respectively, with the turbocharged unit.

Another great benefit that improves the Transit Connect’s fuel efficiency even more, is the automatic stop/start function. This technology stops the engine each time you have to wait in traffic or at an intersection. The result is that your engine will use less fuel.

Ford Transit Connect Cargo and Passenger Capacity

The major choice you’ll need to make about the Transit Connect’s interior is whether you want the cargo or passenger configuration. Both setups have their benefits, so it comes down to what you plan on using your van for. The cargo setup offers seats for two people, while the passenger van can accommodate up to seven people. Other passenger configurations allow you to have five or six seats.

You can choose between a regular-wheelbase and a long-wheelbase model. The regular van should be fine if you carry modest amounts of cargo and want to prioritize maneuverability on busy city streets. If you’d prefer to have the extra space for more cargo or passengers, the long-wheelbase version is ideal.

The short-wheelbase Transit Connect is available only as a cargo van and has a wheelbase of 104 inches. The long-wheelbase model can either be a cargo van or a passenger van. It has a wheelbase of 120 inches and is 72 inches wide. You’ll find 49 inches of height in the cargo area. If you require more height in your cargo area, you may want to look at the larger Ford Transit , which comes in three height configurations.

Transit Connect Infotainment and Safety Tech

The Transit Connect counters many expectations of a typical cargo van, which often lacks the range of tech features you’d find in a modern SUV or sedan. Ford equips the Transit Connect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to link your phone with the van’s infotainment system. This makes it much easier if you have to take a business or personal call while you’re on the road. The infotainment touchscreen is easy to use and is offered alongside other helpful features, like a Wi-Fi hotspot.

You can upgrade to a premium stereo, a CD player, and wireless device charging. This latter feature is especially useful for tradespeople who are always on the go, since you can always keep your phone charged.

All Transit Connect models feature the Ford Co-Pilot360 system, which is Ford’s driver safety package. It includes several driver assistance features, like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning. The Transit Connect’s automatic high-beam headlights will adjust to poor lighting conditions, so you’ll always have good visibility. In addition, you get adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed on the highway, and enhanced active parking assist.

Transit Connect Trims and Packages

One of the best things about Transit Connect is that you can configure it to meet your business’s needs. Whether you’re a taxi service taking people to and from hotels, a delivery driver carrying parcels, or a construction worker requiring space for your tools, we can make adjustments to this van. Ford’s UpFit Configurator can create the perfect setup inside your Transit Connect to meet your specific needs.

If you plan on towing trailers regularly, you can opt for the towing package to add extra equipment to make this task easier. Other packages add extra driver safety features and get you access to additional tech options, such as more USB ports. The package that combines all of the available tech features is the XLT trim, which is a great choice if you want your employees to stay in touch wherever they are and benefit from the convenience of a navigation system.

As you can see, there are many great reasons why you should consider adding the Ford Transit Connect to your fleet of commercial vehicles. If you’d like to know more about any of the features we’ve talked about, don’t hesitate to contact us. Here at Brewster Ford, our sales experts would be delighted to provide you with further information about this compact cargo hauler or arrange for a test drive. We can also assist you with setting up competitive financing to close the deal and provide reliable maintenance at our Ford service center for years to come.

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Shelby is synonymous with fast American sports cars produced under this brand name for decades. Shelby speedsters have challenged some of the best-known names on the racetrack, including Chevy’s Corvette and Ferrari. But what is Shelby’s history, and is it owned by Ford? These are just some of the questions we’ve been looking into during our investigation of the history of the Shelby American.

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You don’t have to be near the border of Mexico to find some great spots for Mexican food. In fact, you don’t even have to leave the beautiful boundaries of Brewster. Among our trains, trees, brick buildings, and exquisite colonial homes, you’ll find some remarkably good restaurants to satisfy your craving for quality Mexican food. Whether you’re just passing through or live with us in Brewster, you won’t want to miss these Mexican food spots when the mood or occasion strikes.

Las Mananitas

The stateliest Mexican food experience in Brewster belongs to Las Mananitas. The thick, rustic woodwork, the soaring rafters with their crafted chandeliers, and the elaborate stonework both inside and out give the grounds and dining areas a rich, southwestern atmosphere. In warmer weather, the three tiers of the outdoor terrace offer stunning views of the treed hills and tranquil waters of East Branch Reservoir. This impressive layout makes Las Mananitas a spectacular venue for private and corporate events as well as a great place to take your family for lunch or dinner.

You’ll find the food and drink at Las Mananitas as compelling as its atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for excellent traditional dishes like burritos and fajitas, or carnitas made from superb verdes, rojas, and mole sauces, or something light like ceviche, or even the seafood flavor of paella marinera, you’ll find it cooked to perfection at Las Mananitas. There are fresh vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives and you can have your guacamole prepared right at your table. This popular restaurant may have a waiting list when you arrive, but it will be well worth it.

Location: 1250 Route 22, Brewster, NY

Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week

Phone: 845-279-4646

La Patrona Restaurant and Bar

Another Mexican restaurant with an extensive menu in Brewster is La Patrona Restaurant and Bar. At La Patrona, you’ll find many fantastic steak and shrimp options for burritos, tacos and tortas. You can even try lengua (tongue), if you’re in a daring mood. Although La Patrona has a bar that serves great margaritas and other drinks, it’s also a family-friendly restaurant with a menu that picky kids will appreciate, and it has a number of great gourmet hamburger options for the kids in your family who might be sensitive to spices from south of the border.

From its stuccoed exterior to its wonderful floor-to-ceiling wall murals and elegant lighting, the atmosphere of La Patrona constantly makes you appreciate the culture of Mexico. The clean dining areas and friendly staff are the perfect complement to the great food. Your entire family will enjoy the food and fun of a visit to La Patrona Restaurant and Bar.

Location: 182 Route 22, Brewster, NY

Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week

Phone: 845-277-4140

La Guadalupana Restaurant

Once you walk through its Main Street brick facade, you’ll find great Mexican food with a home-cooked feel at La Guadalupana Restaurant in the center of Brewster. With a full menu of authentic Mexican dishes the whole family will enjoy, you can make La Guadalupana Restaurant your home base as you explore everything Brewster has to offer.

One of the wonderful things you’ll appreciate about La Guadalupana Restaurant is that it’s the only Mexican restaurant in Brewster that’s open for breakfast. You can order great ham and bacon breakfast sandwiches, but there are also many egg dishes that include the unique flavors of Mexico, like the tortilla and sausage of huevos rancheros, or the scrambled style of huevos revueltos. You can even add a plantain with huevos con platano frito. But whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll find that any time is a great time for Mexican food at La Guadalupana Restaurant.

Location: 64 Main St., Brewster, NY

Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week

Phone: 845-279-8891

El Dorado Restaurant and Bar

El Dorado Restaurant and Bar in Brewster is a spot that brings the influences of many parts of Central America to their authentic Mexican food. The menu includes items such as the flatbread appetizers known as pupusas in El Salvador, seafood dishes like the tasty fried fish of mojarra frita, and the stir fried beef and onion of lomo saltado. There are also many traditional Mexican chicken and pork dishes for your family to choose from.

El Dorado is a great place for family lunches and dinners where food is the focus, but if you’re looking for a casual place to watch your favorite pro soccer team while enjoying the satisfying taste of authentic Mexican food and a popular Mexican beer, you don’t need to look any further. El Dorado Restaurant and Bar is a great place for hanging out with friends, as well as a place you can bring your entire family.

Location: 542 N Main St., Brewster, NY

Hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week

Phone: 845-278-1645

Fiesta Mexicana

Tucked away among the busy storefronts of the Towne Center shopping area on the northeast side of Brewster, you wouldn’t want to overlook the fine Mexican food at Fiesta Mexicana. The food is complemented by a fun and festive atmosphere, which sometimes features live music in the evenings. The wood and tile tables, bright colors, and wonderful wall murals create an ambience that brings the warmth of Mexico to your dining experience.

The menu at Fiesta Mexicana features a variety of authentic Mexican favorites, including chimichangas, enchiladas, quesadillas, tacos, and burritos. And if they all look too good to choose from, Fiesta Mexicana offers several combination plates so you can have it all. The stylish and fully-stocked bar is ready to serve you generous margaritas, quality tequila, or beers crafted in Mexico to go with food that is both authentic and affordable. Don’t miss Fiesta Mexicana.

Location: 1620 Route 22, Towne Center, Brewster, NY

Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week

Phone: 845-278-4515

You can find even more Mexican restaurants to the west, in Carmel, or to the east, across the border in Danbury, but there’s no need to go the extra mile when you’re in Brewster and the mood for the fantastic flavors of Mexico. Stop by one of these great Mexican restaurants in Brewster and let them know how much they are appreciated for bringing the wonderful taste to Brewster, New York. And don’t hesitate to let us know if there are even more great Mexican Restaurants we can support in Brewster.

Photo Credit: carne asada by Ivette Degollado is licensed with CC0 1.0 Universal

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Christmas festivities begin this November, and there will be plenty of ways to see lights this year. If your family is excited to drive around and look at holiday displays, you’ll find that Brewster is full of great spots. The towns surrounding Brewster also have a variety of illuminated holiday events to offer. These Christmas festivities and light shows are perfect for those who love making the most of the holiday season.

Holiday Spirit Festival

Kevin McCurdy’s Holiday Spirit Festival opens on Nov. 25, and decorators will present brand-new attractions and displays. For over 18 years, the festival has offered excellent light shows and more. This year, the festivities will also include a Winter Wonderland Walk. You’ll see various lights and scenes during your visit, including Santa’s Workshop. The Enchanted Forest of Lights is a must-see attraction. If you’re in the mood for more lights, you’ll also enjoy the nightly tree lighting and the laser show in Christmas Canyon.

Armonk Frosty Day

If you’ve ever heard the song “Frosty the Snowman,” you may have wondered if you could visit your own winter wonderland. In fact, Armonk, New York, makes that possible. Held on Nov. 27 this year, the city’s Annual Frosty Day offers an entire afternoon and evening of Frosty-themed activities. Families will enjoy train rides, entertainers, ornament decorating, cartoons, and other festivities. At 4 p.m., a parade of floats decorated in lights will pass through, and a lighting ceremony will follow. This free festival celebrates the world’s most famous snowman.

Holiday Lights in Bloom

Holiday Lights in Bloom is another great option if you’ve been looking for a free event for all your family members. The Orange County Arboretum, located at Thomas Bull Memorial Park, hosts this annual event, which is now in its 14th year. While specific details for this year’s event are not yet available, Holiday Lights in Bloom is typically open on weekends beginning after Thanksgiving and ending after Christmas. It’s usually home to outdoor lighting displays in which the park’s flora is illuminated. In addition to trees, shrubs, and other plants, the arboretum also hosts a holiday boutique.

LUMAGICA USA

Usually, Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard offers apple picking, fresh products, tasty treats, and more. Between Nov. 18 and Dec. 30, however, the orchards will transform into an Enchanted Forest. LUMAGICA USA will feature over 750,000 lights to tell stories in a fun and exciting ways. The trail is just half a mile long, but the walk takes you through six unique themes, including Magical Trees and Into the Wonderland. Along the way, you’ll come across giant reindeer, light tunnels, and a synchronized light and music show.

Grab a warm drink and take a crisp walk in this magical nighttime transformation. In fact, the scenes are so luminous that they almost make the dark winter sky look more like daytime.

Westchester’s Winter Wonderland

Westchester’s Winder Wonderland is a drive-through event in Valhalla, New York. Tickets are already available for the event, which includes thousands of lights on display. On the 1.2-mile drive, you’ll see thousands of lights adorning angels, doves, elves, snowballs, candy canes, and even dancing trees. You’ll drive through a light tunnel and even get the chance to see the 40-foot Christmas tree. Several displays are brand new for 2022, including a North Pole scene featuring a live Santa Claus.

Best of all, you can enjoy this interactive show from the warmth of your cozy vehicle. You’ll even be able to play music on your stereo system. The proceeds from Winter Wonderland also support the Westchester County Parks system, so it’s all for a great cause, too.

Pleasant Valley Festival of Lights

Each year, Pleasant Valley’s Festival of Lights includes a parade. This year’s parade will take place on Dec. 3. While the festival hasn’t listed its starting time yet, it’s bound to be one of the area’s biggest holiday events. Last year, the parade had over 60 floats, many styled with gorgeous lights. This year is certain to have plenty of amazing floats as well.

The event welcomes holiday-themed costumes, and you might even have the chance to see the Grinch and a few elves in the parade. After the parade, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus are available for visits at Cady Field. The parade is free and suitable for all ages.

Holiday on the Lake

Holiday on the Lake in the Hamlet of Carmel takes place on Dec. 3 this year. The free event begins at 3 p.m. The Christmas Village comes to life with live music, a parade, venues, and other types of entertainment. A variety of special treats are available, including hot soups and warm drinks. Don’t forget to show up in time to watch the Parade of Lights.

The event also provides several opportunities to see Santa Claus, including hayrides with Santa and a Santa stroll. Two tree lighting ceremonies are taking place on the same day. The first is at Cornerstone Park, and the other is on Lake Fleneida, complete with choral groups and more.

Travel To Your Holiday Festivities in Style

While you might be looking forward to seeing the holiday lights this year, you want to make sure that you have reliable transportation. The right car can make all the difference when you’re looking at holiday lights. Whether you’re exploring your neighborhood or you want to drive to another community for a parade, you’ll want a vehicle that fits the whole family.

Brewster Ford offers new cars that help you enjoy the holidays no matter where you’re going. For instance, a new car can help you stay warm and cozy as you drive through the neighborhoods of Brewster, looking at residential holiday lights and visiting local holiday festivals. Check out our inventory and financing options so you can feel comfortable as you explore New York.

Photo Credit: Image by Brandi Alexandra is licensed with Unsplash License

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The Ford Extended Warranty, also called the Ford Protect Extended Service Plan, extends your warranty coverage. There are several plans to choose from and various coverage levels, and each plan’s cost changes based on what’s offered. Some Ford owners may only want the minimum amount, while others prefer the peace of mind a premium protection plan covers. To help you decide which warranty suits your needs and budget, we had our experts break down the Ford Extended Warranty plans.

Ford Protect PowertrainCARE Plan

Ford’s lowest level of protection provides coverage for 29 critical engine and transmission components on vehicles, such as the F-150 pickup. This plan also covers your front- and rear-wheel-drive systems. If your Ford vehicle needs maintenance on these parts, you can have them serviced at Brewster Ford’s auto repair center or any Ford dealership. That means you’ll always have a factory-trained, certified technician performing repairs. In addition, they only use genuine Ford parts for all services, so you’ll know your vehicle will run the way Ford intended when it first rolled off the assembly line.

The plan includes a Key Services option that replaces or repairs your key fob. If you misplace it or it malfunctions, Ford will replace or reprogram the fob at no cost. Your PowertrainCARE includes 24/7 roadside assistance, protecting you with towing, lockout, fuel delivery, tire change, and jump-start services.

You also receive emergency travel expense benefits for up to $1,000 per occurrence for the first five days if your Ford Explorer needs emergency service. Lastly, you have rental car coverage for $60 per day for up to five days. Your PowertrainCARE plan covers you for three years, or 48,000 miles up to 10 years, or 175,000 miles.

Ford Protect BaseCARE Plan

The BaseCARE plan covers 84 vehicle system components that impact drivability and performance. You get all the benefits of the PowertrainCARE plan, plus you have coverage for your Ford’s steering, brakes, front suspension, electrical, air conditioning, and heating systems. In addition, you can customize your plan length to cover from three years or 48,000 miles up to 10 years or 175,000 miles, and you can transfer 100% of your remaining plan when you sell your Ford, adding more resale value.

Ford Protect ExtraCARE Plan

With the ExtraCARE plan, you extend the BaseCARE plan coverage to include 113 components critical to driving and performance. The most significant increase consists of several technology components, such as keyless entry, power-operated systems, and speed-control technology. The ExtraCARE plan also lets you customize your time and mileage options to give you the protection level you want.

Ford Protect PremiumCARE Plan

Ford’s most popular plan covers over 1,000 components in your vehicle. Failure of covered components due to defects in materials or manufacturing and normal wear and tear are included. In addition to all the components covered in the ExtraCARE plan, you also have coverage for your rear suspension, emissions, audio, and safety systems. This fully customizable plan lasts up to 10 years or 175,000 miles. It also lets you select your deductible. You can choose from $0, $50, $200, or a disappearing deductible.

What’s the Difference Between a Factory Warranty and an Extended Warranty?

Every Ford vehicle has a basic factory warranty with bumper-to-bumper coverage for three years or 36,000 miles. You also get up to five years or 60,000 miles of powertrain coverage with the basic factory warranty. After the factory warranty expires, your extended warranty coverage begins.

Do I Have To Purchase an Extended Warranty When I Buy My New Ford?

No, you don’t need to add the warranty right away. You can purchase an extended warranty later if you need extra coverage. For vehicles still under the factory warranty, your coverage begins at the date of signing and current mileage. Your coverage ends at the earlier number of months or miles purchased from the expiration of your factory warranty.

If your Ford no longer has a factory warranty, your coverage begins at the date and current mileage at signing. Your coverage terminates when you reach the earlier time or mileage purchased.

Ford Protect Premium Maintenance Plan

The Ford Protect Extended Service Plans listed above don’t cover routine maintenance. So, Ford offers the Premium Maintenance Plan for owners who don’t want to worry about ongoing regular service. The Premium Maintenance Plan covers engine oil and filter changes, multi-point inspections, tire rotations, brake pads and linings, shock absorbers and struts, spark plugs, clutch discs, engine belts, engine coolant, O-rings, clamps and seals, wiper blades, and diesel exhaust fluid fills.

The benefits of this plan include 100% transferability, which improves your resale value. Purchasing it lets you lock in a rate at today’s prices. Life happens, and sometimes that impacts your finances. Knowing your vehicle maintenance costs are covered if you suddenly find your budget shrinking will give you peace of mind. Performing routine maintenance extends the life of your vehicle and reduces the likelihood of unforeseen breakdowns. Your Ford will run at peak efficiency, and you can rely on its performance and safety systems.

Aftermarket Service Plans

Many companies offer extended vehicle service plans. However, we don’t recommend you use these plans. These aftermarket service plans don’t guarantee a Ford-certified technician will work on your vehicle’s maintenance. It also doesn’t ensure the mechanic will use genuine Ford original equipment manufacturer parts for your repairs.

Electric Vehicle Extended Warranty Plans

Ford offers similar plans to cover its lineup of electric vehicles (EVs), including the F150 Lightning. The BaseCARE EV plan covers 84 system components. An ExtraCARE EV plan extends coverage to 113 components, and the PremiumCARE EV plan covers over 1,000 components.

Purchase an Extended Warranty Today

At Brewster Ford, we want your vehicle ownership experience to be one you enjoy for as long as you own your Ford. Purchasing an extended warranty helps improve your ownership experience with quality service you can rely on and exceptional coverage you can trust. If you’re interested in purchasing an extended warranty, please contact us. One of our friendly and knowledgeable warranty experts will explain your options and find a plan that suits your needs and budget. Don’t wait until something goes wrong. Get the protection you need today.

Photo Credit: NAIAS 2016 F-150 Ford Raptor by F. D. Richards is licensed with CC BY-SA 2.0

Tags: Warranty
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If you’re considering an electric vehicle (EV) for your next car purchase, Ford has a great range of options for you to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an electric truck with impressive towing and hauling capabilities, a crossover to transport your family, or a van for the job site, Ford’s rapidly expanding EV lineup has it all. Here at Brewster Ford in Brewster, New York, our auto experts are on hand to answer any of your questions about Ford’s new EVs or what it’s like to own one. Contact us today to learn more.

Ford F-150 Lightning

The F-150 Lightning is inspired by Ford’s F-150 pickup, which has proven time and again to be the most popular truck in the country for decades. With this incredibly strong starting point, Ford retains what drivers like best about the F-150 during its shift to EVs.

A four-wheel-drive electric motor system powers the F-150 Lightning. This puts out an impressive 452 horsepower in its standard configuration and increases to 580 in extended-range Lightning models. The Lightning has one electric motor for the front wheels and another for the rear wheels to give it four-wheel drive. These two motors can shift the F-150 Lightning at an incredible speed, dashing zero to 60 mph in as little as 4.5 seconds.

The standard Lightning has a driving range of 230 miles when fully charged. You can increase this to 320 miles if you upgrade to the larger battery pack offered in the extended-range model. The Lightning’s towing abilities are also impressive. The standard setup can tow 5,000 pounds, while the extended version can achieve 10,000 pounds when paired with the Max Trailer Tow Package.

Inside the cabin, the Lightning offers seating for five people. Unlike some gas-powered pickups, the F-150 Lightning is available in only one cab and cargo bed configuration. The Crew cab offers plenty of headroom and legroom for adults in both rows, while the cargo bed measures 5 feet 7 inches in length.

Mustang Mach-E

Ford offers this all-electric crossover in rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive (AWD) models. The rear-wheel-drive setup has an electric motor on the rear wheels, delivering an output of 266 horsepower and a driving range of 247 miles with the standard battery pack. All-wheel drive adds a second motor to the vehicle and reduces the driving range slightly to 224 miles. The Mach-E’s extended battery pack can boost your driving range to 303 miles in rear-wheel drive or 277 miles with AWD.

If you use a 240-volt outlet to charge your vehicle, also known as a Level 2 charger, it’ll take between 12 and 15 hours to fully charge the Mach-E. You can access 240-volt chargers at a public charging site or by installing one at your home.

The Mach-E has a spacious cabin for you and your passengers to ride in. Both rows of seats are well suited for tall passengers, and there’s also equipment for installing child seating in the rear row. Behind the second row of seats, you’ll find over 29 cubic feet of cargo space. If you’re transporting bulkier items, you can fold down the rear row to open up close to 60 cubic feet in your storage area.

While the F-150 Lightning impresses with its towing abilities, the Mach-E stands out with an impressive infotainment system. Even base models have a huge 15.5-inch touchscreen paired with a six-speaker stereo. Other features include wireless device charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 10.2-inch digital gauge cluster. You can upgrade to a 10-speaker stereo for even better performance.

Ford E-Transit

The E-Transit van is an all-electric version of the Transit commercial van. Ford aimed the first versions of this van at commercial cargo carriers, but some reports have suggested that it may offer a passenger version in the coming years.

The E-Transit has a driving range of 126 miles. Its power train consists of an electric motor and a 67 kWh battery pack that puts out 266 horsepower. If you’d like an all-electric vehicle for hauling large items to work or delivering equipment to your clients, the E-Transit should be at the top of your list.

Ford Hybrid Vehicles

If you don’t want to opt for an all-electric vehicle, remember that some of Ford’s most popular models are available with a hybrid power train. Hybrid vehicles combine the benefits of an electric motor, which include improved fuel economy, with the support of a gasoline engine, so you don’t have to worry about driving range and charging your battery.

Ford offers Explorer and Escape crossovers with a hybrid powertrain. The Explorer is the larger of the two models, providing a third row of seating for additional passenger capacity. The Escape is a two-row crossover that does the job on the daily commute or for city driving.

Ford EV Plans

Ford has big ambitions for its EV sales over the next year. By late 2023, the automaker intends to sell 600,000 all-electric vehicles worldwide. This will include 270,000 Mach-E crossovers, 150,000 each of the F-150 Lightning and E-Transit, and 30,000 units of a new SUV for the European market.

This is just the first step in a transformational plan that will see Ford invest $50 billion in EV production. The goal is to have EVs account for half of its global production by 2030, with the company hoping to produce 2 million units worldwide by 2026. Over the longer term, Ford intends for its vehicles to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Would you like to know more about Ford’s EV transformation? Or how about having the opportunity to test drive a Mach-E or F-150 Lightning in Brewster? As your top Ford dealership, we can help you with that. Feel free to contact our auto experts to learn more about Ford’s electric vehicle lineup and discuss the attractive financing options we offer for your next purchase. We look forward to taking your call, responding to your online message, or chatting with you in person if you swing by our Brewster, New York dealership.

Photo Credit: Photo used with permission via Ford.com

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As fall festivities, such as Halloween and Thanksgiving, draw closer, you may want to participate in charitable causes and give back to society. What better way to do this than through volunteering? Luckily, there are several places you can volunteer and make a difference this season. With November being the peak volunteer season, you can choose from your pick of different organizations and groups that match your interests and values or try your hand at a new field.

Volunteer organizations can also help you develop new skills depending on the tasks you’ll execute. So, whether you’re looking to join a volunteer program for an animal shelter or a hospital, you can be sure to strengthen your community ties as you serve humanity. Here are some places where you can volunteer around Brewster.

Comfort for Critters

Volunteering at Comfort for Critters may be ideal for you if you’re an animal lover. For the past 15 years, the organization’s focus has been offering animals comfort by donating handmade pet blankets to animal shelters across the country. These blankets provide comfortable beds for pets while also giving them a sense of familiarity at the animal shelter and their forever homes upon adoption. Comfort for Critters also sells eBooks that guide people on how to make pet blankets. Profits from ebook sales cover the cost of blanket shipping to different shelters.

This year, you can volunteer your crafts skills to make pet blankets by knitting, crocheting, sewing, or quilting with yarn and fleece. Comfort for Critters then donates your blankets to the nearest animal shelter, and you can rest assured that the pets are comfortable and warm during these chilly fall months. You can also drop off or ship your blankets by viewing the animal shelters they support or contacting them for further information.

Green Chimneys

Green Chimneys is a 75-year-old non-profit organization that assists young people in achieving their full potential in a supportive environment. This supportive environment provides residential, educational, clinical, and recreational services that connect children to their families, animals, nature, and the community. Set on a farm with gardens and a wildlife center, Green Chimneys has gained global recognition for its animal-assisted therapy and nature-based educational services for children with special needs.

Children work in the gardens as part of the nature-based education program and treatment plan. With many positions available, you can apply for various volunteer roles and opportunities such as child-based, nature-based, single-day, and short-term volunteering. Green Chimneys also provides training for all the positions available. The volunteer period is six months and consists of a minimum of weekly volunteer services.

Second Chance Foods

Every day, a lot of food goes to waste because it isn’t aesthetically pleasing enough to stock in grocery stores or serve in restaurants. Second Chance Foods, a non-profit organization, recovers unsold or unserved foods that are still nutritionally beneficial and distributes them to community outreach organizations that provide meals for those in need. The organization collects food from farms, grocery stores, and restaurants to reduce food wastage and shortages. If you’re interested in such a worthy cause, you can join their team as a volunteer cook.

The only requirements for this volunteer position are a love for cooking and a minimum age of 13. As a volunteer cook, you’ll wash and prepare food, prepare the meals, label them, and clean up and package the meals for distribution to families in need around Brewster. The work schedule is a minimum of two and a half hours on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. Apply for this volunteer cook position and get a chance to improve people’s health by working in their kitchen at 116 Federal Hill Road.

SPACE on Ryder Farm

Located at 405 Starr Ridge Road, SPACE on Ryder Farm operates as a non-profit residency program for artists and innovators on an organic farm. SPACE creates a refreshing environment that allows artists and innovators to immerse themselves in their work. The organic farm uses natural methods that restore the soil to produce healthy and nutrient-rich food that feeds the residents on the farm thrice per day. Catering these meals means there needs to be plenty of planting and harvesting that you can participate in by applying for a volunteer position this fall.

Transport Resources Access (TRA)

Senior citizens and people with disabilities often need assistance with navigating the roads for activities such as grocery shopping or attending hospital appointments. This challenge may lead to limited community engagement, but they can live independent and satisfying lives with TRA. TRA is a collaborative, not-for-profit organization that empowers both the elderly and adults with impairments to live to their fullest potential through aided transportation from volunteer drivers.

To volunteer at TRATransport Resources Access, you need to be over 21 years of age and have at least two years of driving experience, have a reliable car, and have a valid driving license. You’ll also need to undertake a criminal history and background check and adhere to all safety protocols while driving. Since this is a vulnerable group, full COVID-19 vaccination is also required. Register as a driver to be part of this compassionate organization or contact them for further information.

Participate in a Volunteering Cause in Brewster

Besides making a difference in the lives of the beneficiaries, volunteering helps you connect with like-minded, compassionate individuals and build meaningful relationships. Volunteering also gives you a chance to learn about an industry or field you’ve probably been curious about for a while.

As a volunteer, you also get fulfillment by engaging in activities that align with your personal values or pique your interest. If you enjoy volunteering, what causes do you prefer and why? Interact with us and share with us those beautiful stories about your experiences. If you’ve never volunteered before but would love to try it, you can also tell us your areas of passion. Also, you can include any volunteer organization around Brewster that you’d like us to add to our list above. We look forward to hearing from you!

Photo Credit: Cat Heaven by Russell C is licensed with CC BY 2.0

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No matter the season, holiday breaks are a magical time to spend with family and friends. If you find yourself on the brink of one of these holidays, it might be time to start planning some activities to keep everyone in the family engaged. At Brewster Ford, we want you to have the best possible time whenever you go out and about in our beloved hometown. Read on to learn more about some of our favorite places near Brewster, New York, to take your family during holiday breaks.

Salinger’s Orchard

Any time of year, Salinger’s Orchard in Brewster is a great place to spend the day. This family-owned orchard grows fresh produce no matter the season, including peaches, apples, pears, plums, pumpkins, and even Christmas trees as the temperatures get colder. The orchard’s farm market sells fresh pies, honey, baked goods, candies, pastries, and so much more.

Children of all ages will love exploring the isles of the market and, if the weather permits, the rows of trees filling this luscious orchard. There’s even a cute cafe for you and your loved ones to grab a coffee and fresh-baked cider doughnut. If you want to spend your holiday snacking on some of the best local produce your town can offer, there’s no better place than Salinger’s.

Trailside Museums and Zoo

Located right within Bear Mountain State Park, Trailside Museums and Zoo is the perfect location for any nature-loving family. This self-guided nature trail is as unique as it is engaging, offering you and your loved ones the chance to explore the park’s trails while learning more about the local wildlife. Lace up your hiking shoes and get ready to discover what makes our area so geographically unique.

Check out signs that serve as your naturalist guide and offer historical stories about the grounds you walk. You can also marvel at historical statues and plaques that teach you more about your town. There are also small museums throughout that offer more information about wildlife, geology, and history. If that’s not enough, you can enjoy native wildlife exhibits that let you get up close and personal with some of your favorite critters in a safe and educational way. Fill a wild day to the brim at this local spot.

Green Chimneys Farm and Wildlife Center

If you and your family want to do some good over your break while never sacrificing the fun, check out Green Chimneys Farm and Wildlife Center. This Brewster nonprofit specializes in providing animal therapy for children with special needs and community support through family programming. Explore this unique center’s mission and be inspired by the work that’s going on right in Brewster.

On weekends, this organization opens up its farm and wildlife center to the public free of charge, allowing you and your loved ones the opportunity to hang out with the park’s 300-plus animals. You can take your time through a self-guided farm tour and discover more about the organization’s mission. You can also check out the farm’s list of events and learn how you and your loved ones can get involved. Feel and do good at Green Chimneys.

Xtreme Play Adrenaline Park

The whole family will love a day spent at Xtreme Play Adrenaline Park. This nearby Connecticut amusement center has many attractions to keep you busy, including an indoor play area, immersive experience, high ropes course, laser tag, mini bowling, bumper cars, rock climbing, obstacle courses, and more. A fully stocked arcade and prize center are just calling for you to impress your loved ones with a new high score.

This center becomes even more attractive when you find out that food and drink options include pasta, pizza, salad, flatbread, burgers, appetizers, and plenty of beer and wine for the parents. You can select individual attraction tickets or multi-event passes to customize your day at this fun-filled park. You better start exercising your pinball fingers now.

Stepping Stones Museum for Children

Sometimes you just need to play. That’s where the Stepping Stones Museum for Children comes into the picture. This nonprofit organization and museum have a goal to help children learn and grow by offering them opportunities to interact and play with some fun and educational games. Best for children under 10, this is a great spot to bring your young ones and relax as they take in all the fun around them. The museum is about 45 minutes away from Brewster, but it is more than worth the drive.

Visitors can explore educational activities and projects, kinetic sculptures, outdoor playgrounds, light galleries, and many more traveling and special exhibitions. To gain entrance, children must be accompanied by a parent, and a kid must accompany parents. Once inside, you’ll be hard-pressed not to have a good time, no matter your age.

Rocking Horse Ranch Resort

If you’d like to turn your holiday into a staycation, travel to the nearby Rocking Horse Ranch Resort, which is slightly less than an hour away from Brewster. This hotel and experience is the perfect weekend getaway. It comes complete with a wide range of activities when you stay, allowing you and your family to completely escape your normal everyday life without hopping on a plane. Enjoy horseback riding, rock climbing, and mountain sliding, along with seasonal activities like summer water sports and winter skating and snow tubing.

If you’d rather spend your time indoors, you can check out the ranch’s indoor water park for the perfect year-round 85-degree weather. There’s also an arcade, laser tag, a shooting gallery, and an archery range for you to explore. When the day’s done, you can even sit back and enjoy nightly entertainment options for the whole family while hoping that checkout never comes.

When you’re ready to move on to your next adventure, you can check out our site for more information on local events in Brewster. You may also want to learn more about our dealership and our impact on the community. At Brewster Ford, we love our town and hope you do too.

So, there you have it, some of our favorite places to take your family during a holiday break. Is there anything we missed on our list? You can always contact us to let us know. You can also explore our website to learn more about Brewster Ford and how much we love our community. We can’t wait for our fellow Brewster residents to get to know us a little bit better.

Photo Credit: autumn orchard by liz west is licensed with CC BY 2.0

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