18 Fascinating Facts About Halloween

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Have you ever wondered how much candy is sold and eaten during Halloween? Or do you wonder how many people trick-or-treat each year? Well, you don't have to wonder anymore! These 18 fascinating facts about Halloween are sure to answer any questions you have about the spookiest time of the year!

1. According to a survey conducted in 2016, the most popular Halloween candy in Michigan are chocolate M&Ms!
2. Last year, over 171 million people in the US celebrated Halloween. This year, over 70% of Americans are expected to partake in this year's spookiest celebration!
3. Americans are currently projected to spend over $8.4 billion on Halloween decorations, costumes, candy, and other holiday supplies.
4. Halloween is the sweetest holiday of the year. Chocolate sold on Halloween doubles the amount sold on Valentine's Day. In fact, over $1.9 billion a year is spent on Halloween candy alone in the United States. That's a lot of candy!
5. Any candy you get this Halloween will last a lot longer than you'd think! Chocolate can last up to two years if properly stored in a dry area, and hard candy can last up to a year.
6. If you're giving away candy this year, make sure you buy the right kind! 50% of kids prefer to receive chocolate candy for Halloween, compared to 24% who prefer non-chocolate and 10% who would rather have gum.
7. Salem, Massachusetts, is considered the Halloween capital of the world due to its haunted history of the Salem Witch Trials.
8. Halloween has gone by several names throughout history. It's been called All Hallow's Eve, Witches' Night, Snap-Apple Night, Samhain, and even Summer's End!
9. The first celebrations of Halloween began over 6,000 years ago in Ireland. Since then, the holiday has achieved global success and participants can be found in most parts of the world!
10. Halloween originated as an ancient Irish festival for the dead called "Samhain." On Samhain, participants would dress up as ghosts and demons and leave "treats" on their front porch to appease any spirits that might otherwise haunt them.
11. If you went trick-or-treating in the Middle Ages, you'd have to sing or dance to receive your treat! This practice is called "mumming" and is still frequently practiced in some parts of Europe.
12. Halloween isn't celebrated in Mexico. Instead, the Day of the Dead is celebrated on November 1st. Participants dress up like the dead and parade down the streets in honor of those who have passed on to the next life.
13. In China, the Lantern Festival takes the place of Halloween. Dragon-shaped lanterns cover the streets to help guide spirits back to their homes for the day, where families typically leave food and water by their ancestors' portraits to welcome them for the evening.
14. The first Jack-o-Lanterns were actually made from turnips and potatoes! They were given scary faces to ward off spirits that could potentially haunt families in Ireland.
15. The largest pumpkin ever weighed was over 2,624.6 lbs. That's definitely one big Jack-o-Lantern!
16. According to an ancient Halloween tradition, if you wear your clothes inside out and walk backwards on October 31st, you'll see a witch at midnight!
17. Currently, Boston, Massachusetts, holds the record for the most Jack-o-Lanterns lit at once (over 30,128!)
18. It is extremely rare for a full moon to occur on Halloween. The next full moon on Halloween is predicted to occur on 10/31/2020.

Halloween is the second most celebrated and universally recognized holiday in the world (with Christmas in first place). Now that you've learned these 18 interesting facts about Halloween, you won't be able to look at the spookiest holiday of the year the same way again! The best part about the fall, besides the candy, apple cider, haunted hayrides, and Halloween celebrations, is that it's also SUV season! Take a look at our new SUV inventory to find exclusive deals on the Ford Explorer, Escape, and Edge. Additionally, you can save money by taking advantage of our manufacturer offers to get a great deal on a new Ford vehicle. Plus, we frequently update our regional incentives as more offers become available, so check back regularly to find further savings at North Brothers Ford!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

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7 Dreadfully Delicious Halloween Desserts

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– On Halloween, sweets reign supreme! Candy, treats, and desserts are the best parts of October 31st and what better way to pay tribute to the spookiest holiday of the year than with some superb recipes? If you're planning on hosting or attending a Halloween party, these 7 dreadfully delicious Halloween desserts are sure to impress any partygoers, guests, or monsters that get the chance to enjoy them!

1. Strawberry Ghosts

These ghoulishly good strawberry ghosts will haunt your taste buds with their delicious flavor for days to come! Make these spooky and sweet treats for a fun snack before you go trick-or-treating to give yourself a boost of energy this year!

Supplies Needed: Chocolate chips, strawberries, melted white chocolate

Difficulty: Easy

2. Dracula's Dentures

Whether you're hosting a monster mash party or are simply a fan of vampires, give Dracula's dentures a try with this easy four-ingredient recipe!

Supplies Needed: Chocolate chip cookie dough, red vanilla frosting, marshmallows, almonds

Recipe Difficulty: Easy

3. Cookie Dough Mummies

These cookie dough mummies are so good, they'll raise the dead! If you're a fan of chocolate chip cookies and white chocolate, you'll want to wrap your fingers around a batch of cookie dough mummies as soon as possible.

Supplies Needed: Butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, salt, flour, chocolate chips, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla candy melts, candy eyes

Recipe Difficulty: Easy

4. Sugar Skull Fruit Pizza

Whether you're planning on celebrating the Day of the Dead on November 1st or simply love the idea of a healthy skull-themed dessert, this sugar skull fruit pizza takes a lot of time to make, but the flavor makes all the effort worth it!

Supplies Needed: Flour, baking soda, baking powder, butter, plain yogurt, white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, kiwi, pineapple, sugar apricot preserves, water

Recipe Difficulty: Hard

5. Bloody Red Velvet Cupcakes

One bite of this deathly delicious recipe will make you realize that these bloody red velvet cupcakes are to die for! These sweet treats are filled with cream cheese and are a bloody good twist on red velvet cupcakes.

Supplies Needed: Flour, baking soda, sea salt, cocoa powder, sugar, vegetable oil, egg, buttermilk, red food coloring, vanilla extract, white vinegar, cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, raspberries, lemon juice, lemon zest

Recipe Difficulty: Medium

6. Witches' Brew Butter Cookies

These spellbindingly savory cookies are a magnificent blend of sugary and buttery flavors that are sure to impress your partygoers. The best part of this recipe is that it doesn't require any magic besides your cooking skills!

Supplies Needed: Flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, powdered sugar, butter, vanilla extract, green yellow purple food coloring, black sprinkles

Recipe Difficulty: Medium

7. Black Velvet Spider Cake

Trap your guests in a web of sugary sweetness with a slice of black velvet spider cake. Just like a spider takes its time spinning its web, so should you take your time as you craft your black velvet spider cake!

Supplies Needed: Cake flour, salt, cocoa powder, butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, black gel food coloring, baking soda, white distilled vinegar, vegetable shortening, vanilla bean paste, powdered sugar

Recipe Difficulty: Hard

Whether you're hosting a frighteningly fantastic party or are bringing some to-go treats before you hit the streets, these 7 dreadfully delicious Halloween desserts are bound to wow any ghosts, ghouls, or goblins that sink their teeth into them! If you're on the hunt for all things Halloween, check out our Pinterest page for recipes, costumes, DIY projects, and more! When you think fall, you probably think Halloween and hunting season, but did you also know that it's SUV Season at North Brothers Ford? Take advantage of this exclusive opportunity by looking at some of our specials and offers! You can find incentives, discounts, coupons, and other ways to save money on service, leases, and new vehicle purchases throughout SUV Season at North Brothers Ford! 

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

8 Last-Minute Halloween Costume Ideas

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Before you know it, the streets will be flooded with Trick-or-Treaters for Halloween! Do you have your costume yet? If not, or if you can't figure out what to dress as, don't worry! We're here to help! Whether you're dressing up by yourself or as a couple, these 8 last-minute Halloween costume ideas have clever and creative ideas for everyone!

Women: Pineapple

Want to dress up as the sweetest surprise of the Halloween season? Put on a yellow dress, craft a quick and easy pineapple hat, and voila! In no time, you'll be a fruity and fresh pineapple!

Materials Needed: Yellow dress, pineapple hat, toilet paper roll, hot glue gun, scissors

Budget: $15-20

Men: Marty McFly

Head back to the future this Halloween as Marty McFly! While Marty's famous self-lacing Nike shoes and hoverboard don't quite exist yet, you'll be able to find the rest of his iconic outfit at thrift stores around Westland.

Materials Needed: Jean jacket, jeans, tennis shoes, white button-up, orange or red vest, digital watch

Budget: $25-35

Couple: Spaghetti & Parmesan Cheese

Just like you and your significant other, spaghetti and parmesan cheese are the perfect combination! With just a little bit of crafting and creativity, you can be the best-dressed couple no matter where you go!

Materials Needed: For spaghetti - red sweatshirt, spaghetti-colored (yellow) yarn, plastic forks, a colander, scissors, hot glue gun, brown pom poms. 

For parmesan cheese - green dress or shirt, fabric transfer paper, white fabric, parmesan cheese logo (printed), green poster board, iron, stapler

Budget: $20-25

Unisex: Stick Figure

For a fun and clever last-minute look, grab a body suit, duct tape, and glow sticks and turn yourself into a stick figure! We recommend this outfit for trick-or-treating and haunted hayrides, as it can look a little silly if you don't wear it in the dark!

Materials Needed: Glow sticks, duct tape, black bodysuit

Budget: $5-15

Women: Pinterest Board

If you've been browsing Pinterest for costume ideas and just can't seem to find anything, why not think outside the box and dress as Pinterest for Halloween? You can make your own board or dress up as one of ours if you'd like! 

Materials Needed: Corkboard, Pinterest logo, board items (printed), thumbtacks, thick ribbon, scissors

Budget: $0-10

Men: Brawny Man

If you're looking for the quickest, easiest costume you can make, the Brawny Man is instantly recognizable and incredibly simple. All you have to do is wear a red flannel shirt with jeans and comb your hair to resemble the Brawny Man. (You may want to bring along the paper towel for reference, though!)

Materials Needed: Red flannel shirt, jeans, belt, boots, (optional) Brawny paper towel roll

Budget: $0-10

Couple: Starbucks Coffee and Barista

Express your love for Starbucks with a cute and creative couple's costume! Plus, if you decide to go trick-or-treating this year, you can even use the always-amusing "thanks a latte" pun when you get candy!

Materials Needed: For the Barista costume: Green apron, Starbucks logo (printed), black shirt, jeans

For the coffee cup: Coffee lid, green straw, headband, hot glue gun, Starbucks logo (printed), brown cardboard "sleeve", white dress

Budget: $25-30

Unisex: Where's Waldo?

Whether you're dressing up your little one or want to become the iconic character yourself, going as Waldo for Halloween is a great throwback that's sure to be a hit no matter where you trick-or-treat! If someone tries to get a picture with you, though, make sure to hide so people have to look for you in their photo!

Materials Needed: Striped red and white shirt, striped red and white beanie, jeans, round glasses

Budget: $5-15

Are you in a hurry to find a great costume? Do you want to impress everyone with your almost-effortless look this year? These 8 last-minute Halloween costumes are exactly what you need! You can find more Halloween costumes, recipes, and decorations to help you prepare for this spooky celebration on our Pinterest page! If you're planning on traveling at all this fall, make sure you check your vehicle's important components, as long distances and changing temperatures of the fall season can affect their performance. Refer to our tips and tricks for more advice, and if you have any questions, feel free to contact us. If you find something that may require attention, schedule an appointment with us and we'll get your vehicle ready to take on the cold weather in no time!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

9 Carve-Free Pumpkin Designs

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– If you like to carve pumpkins, but hate how messy it can get, we have the solution for you! These 9 carve-free pumpkin designs are the answer to your Halloween woes. Discover the creatively clever carve-free solutions that will make your front porch stand out this October. Plus, if you're decorating pumpkins with your kids, you won't have to worry about the dangers of sharp knives and cutting tools.

1. Watermelon Pumpkin

If you want to add a little summer flair to your fall festivities, make a watermelon pumpkin to remind yourself of warm months, relaxation, and the deliciously tasty flavor of watermelon!

Difficulty: Easy

Supplies Needed: Paintbrush (large and small), light green paint, red paint, white paint, and black paint

2. Optical Illusion Pumpkin

For a truly eye-catching pumpkin design, this optical illusion pumpkin will definitely attract the attention of Trick-or-Treaters as they approach your doorstep for candy.

Difficulty: Medium

Supplies Needed: Paintbrushes (large and small) Black and white paint, foam pouncers, paint tape

3. Plaid Pumpkin

Give your pumpkins their very own flannel to stay warm this October! With a plaid pattern, your pumpkins will stand out against the backdrop of warm fall colors (and look great doing it!).

Difficulty: Easy

Supplies Needed: Black paint, white paint, grey paint, paintbrush

4. Melted Crayon Pumpkin

Want a great kid-friendly and paint-free pumpkin project? Glue crayons to the top of your pumpkin and melt them to create an amazing kaleidoscope of color!

Difficulty: Easy

Supplies Needed: Crayons, tacky glue, hairdryer

5. Doughnut Pumpkins

Want to make the tastiest looking pumpkins in the neighborhood this October? Paint your pumpkins with this doughnut design and top it off with real sprinkles, or paint them on for an extra tasty effect!

Difficulty: Medium

Supplies Needed: White paint, paintbrush, colored paint (for the "frosting" - we recommend pink, light blue, or dark brown), glue, sprinkles, and colorful paint for the "sprinkles"

6. Ombre Pumpkin

If you want to make a truly one-of-a-kind decoration for your front porch this season, blend your favorite colors together with an ombre pumpkin! If you want to add a Halloweeny touch, use orange and dark purple paints to bring out the spooky side of pumpkin decorating.

Difficulty: Easy

Supplies Needed: White spray paint, enamel paint (we recommend purple and orange to get the Halloween look you want), and cotton balls to blend the colors

7. Eyeball Pumpkin

If you're on the hunt for a truly unsettling Jack-o-Lantern, "look" (get it?) no further than the creepiest carve-free design you'll ever find! It requires a little bit of extra work, but the end result will give you an extra pair of eyes on your home. (The puns stop here, we promise!)

Difficulty: Hard

Supplies Needed: Small, medium, and large paintbrushes, red paint, white paint, green paint, black paint, yellow paint, paint blender, and tape

8. Floral Moon Pumpkin

Want to capture the spirit of Halloween without the spookiness? Create a floral moon pumpkin to pay tribute to Halloween's history with a breathtakingly beautiful decoration. Use a craft pumpkin to keep this perfect centerpiece around for years to come!

Difficulty: Hard

Supplies Needed: Paper, scissors, black spray paint, pencil, drill, fresh flowers, and (optional) craft pumpkin

9. Silhouette Pumpkin

Give your pumpkins a mess-free and stylish look with pumpkin stencils! Create these spooky silhouettes in a matter of minutes with some black paint, creativity, and some patience!

Difficulty: Easy

Supplies Needed: Small paintbrush, black paint, Halloween stencil

Whether you prefer to go all out on Halloween or just want to try something new, these 9 carve-free pumpkin designs are sure to be a hit this October! Looking for more Halloween-themed DIY projects? Follow us on Pinterest! We'll be posting recipes, costumes, designs, and all things Halloween this October. Also, before the snow starts to fall in Westland later this year, schedule a check-up for your vehicle to make sure it will be able to take on the changing temperatures. Use our tips and tricks to keep your vehicle in peak condition through the transition from warm to cold weather, and contact us if you notice anything wrong with your vehicle or have any questions about service.

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

5 Cider Mills to Visit This Season

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Looking for fall fun? Spend time with family, go out on a date, or catch up with friends at the cider mill. Enjoy cider and doughnuts, hop on a hayride, and warm up by a bonfire at these 5 cider mills to visit this season! Read on to discover all the great cider mills in the Westland area and what makes each of them worth visiting this fall.

1. Plymouth Orchards - Plymouth, MI

Just a short drive from Westland, celebrate Plymouth Orchards' 40th anniversary this fall! Start off with some fresh-pressed cider, warm doughnuts, and crispy caramel apples in the market before heading into the cider mill. Once you make your way in, enjoy a wagon ride and get ready for the Halloween season by picking your own pumpkin! Check their newsletter frequently to discover events that run through the season.

2. Diehl's Orchard & Cider Mill - Holly, MI

Head out to Holly, Michigan this year to check out Diehl's Orchard & Cider Mill. After tasting the famous Diehl's cider, get lost in the twisting and turning corn maze. It's a fun challenge for all ages and is open 7 days a week from 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Group events, like an evening hayride/campfire night, tent rental, and group tours, are available upon request. Make unforgettable memories this year at Diehl's Orchard & Cider Mill in Holly!

3. Parmenter's Cider Mill - Northville, MI

Stop by Parmenter's Cider Mill in Northville, Michigan, for a mouthwatering experience! Parmenter's carries a wide range of fall foods, including doughnut chips, apple cider, cinnamon roasted almonds, fudge, maple sugar candies, and much more. Parmenter's is only open till November 19th, so if you want to get your hands on authentic fall foods, you'll want to visit as soon as you can!

4. Franklin Cider Mill - Bloomfield Hills, MI

The Franklin Cider Mill in Bloomfield Hills is renowned for its tradition and history. Enjoy seasonal apple flavors, authentic German doughnuts, and freshly-pressed and bottled cider at the Mill. You can feed the ducks, explore the beautiful riverside mill, and stop by during any of their seasonal events for a truly unique cider mill experience. You won't want to miss out on the famous Franklin Cider Mill candied apples, either!

5. Long Family Orchard - Commerce, MI

There's plenty to do at Long Family Orchard in Commerce! Pick your own apples, explore the Doughnut Kitchen, and get lost in the corn maze at night. You'll find plenty of activities for families to enjoy, including the play area, petting zoo, and the Fun Time Fall Area! Activities and events change all the time, so make sure to call in advance to see what's going on for the day. There's something to do for everyone any day of the week at Long Family Orchard.

Don't miss out on any fun this fall! These 5 cider mills to visit this season will be sure to keep the whole family entertained. While you're out and about on your fall adventures, use our tips and tricks to make sure your vehicle is ready to go for the cooler weather ahead. If you're looking for a job this season, we're hiring in all of our departments! Start your career as a body shop estimator, automotive technician, salesperson, or somewhere else. Check back on our employment page frequently for more information and job updates. We hope to see you soon at North Brothers Ford!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

Scare-Proof Neighborhood-Driving Tips for Halloween

WESTLAND, Mich. –– Halloween might be all tricks and treats for kids, but for drivers it can be a night of fear-driven anxiety and goose bumps as they cruise down neighborhood streets hoping the goblins, ghosts, and ghouls stay on the sidewalks as they creep from door-to-door shouting for candy.

While we recommend that you don’t drive on Halloween in order to avoid any potential hazards due to an influx of kids strolling the nighttime streets, if you must drive somewhere, be sure to follow these scare-proof neighborhood-driving tips for Halloween that will help you keep the trick-or-treating kids in your area safe.

Stay off neighborhood streets.

That is, stay off neighborhood streets if you’re able to. Of course, this is a lofty demand, and we don’t expect that everyone will be able to carry it out. If you have to drive somewhere during trick-or-treating hours, try to find the safest possible route out of your neighborhood based on where kids are and aren’t trick-or-treating.

Take it easy on the gas pedal.

It’s important to keep your driving speeds low during Halloween when you’re traveling through a neighborhood. Driving slowly give you more time to react in a situation that could require quick thinking, such as a group of trick-or-treaters running across a street without looking your way first.

Be a beacon of light.

Meaning, don’t be afraid to use your brights, or fog lights, when you’re driving in dark areas of your neighborhood that may not be lined with streetlights. Using your brights will give you a broader scope of vision in these instances and allow you more time to react quickly in situations like those mentioned above.

If you see a stop sign, stop.

You know who you are, rolling stoppers. The truth is the majority of drivers never come to complete stops at stop signs, although we all should because it’s a safety law. But specifically on Halloween this law is vital for drivers to follow religiously. Most kids don’t look both ways before crossing a street, despite what their parents taught them. By rolling through a stop sign, you aren’t giving yourself enough time to check your surroundings before continuing, but if you come to a full stop you have plenty of time to make sure there aren’t an ghosts lurking on corners, ready to take flight in front of your vehicle.

Yield sign or no yield sign, slow down at intersections.

This tip dovetails with coming to complete stops at stop signs. However, in this case we’re recommending that you slow down at intersections and check your surroundings before proceeding, even if there aren’t any yield signs telling you to do so. Again, most kids aren’t paying attention to anything but candy and creepy costumes on Halloween, so it’s your job to look out for them.

We hope with these scare-proof neighborhood-driving tips for Halloween, you and all your little ghouls and goblins make it home safe with loads of candy in hand! One easy way to stay safe on the road and keep your vehicle running well is with routine maintenance. Check out all our Fall Car Care tips and schedule your auto service online!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

6 Reasons Thanksgiving Is Not Your Average American Holiday

WESTLAND, Mich. –– With turkey at the center of Thanksgiving, it's easy to overlook the myriad oddities that make it a unique holiday Americans love. But if we look beyond the hours spent on meal preparation involved and the debates between white and dark meat, what might we find? We did a little fact hunting and came up with six reasons Thanksgiving isn't your average American holiday. From turkey trivia to historical holiday moments, these facts will change how you look at Thanksgiving.

1. The first TV dinners were Thanksgiving leftovers.

In 1953, Swanson had over 260 tons of frozen turkey leftover from Thanksgiving. To use up these leftovers, the company scooped turkey, potatoes, peas, and corn-bread into aluminum trays. The meals could be frozen and heated when ready to be consumed, and the concept of families eating around the dinner table was forever changed.

2. The first Thanksgiving football game.

The history of Thanksgiving football originates with the Detroit Lions, who hosted the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving Day in 1934. The Lions lost 19–16, which isn't surprising by today's standards, though they were a second-place team in 1934. Today, only two NFL teams––the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys––host Thanksgiving football games each year, while a third game with no fixed opponents shifts between the rest of the NFL teams each year.

3. Tryptophan in turkey doesn't make you sleepy.

It's not the tryptophan in Turkey that is making you sleepy, it's your potatoes––and every other side dish replete with carbohydrates. Eating a huge plate of simple carbs and washing it down with alcohol will make you want to take a post-meal nap, but turkey won't.

4. A turkey can grow to be the size of a large dog.

The heaviest turkey ever served on Thanksgiving was 86 pounds, about the size of a large dog. However, this is uncommon, as most turkeys weigh in at 11–24 pounds. We're still trying to figure out how someone fits an 86-pound turkey in their oven.

5. Americans consume 690 million pounds of turkey on Thanksgiving.

On Thanksgiving, the turkey takes center stage in American homes, so it's not surprising the nation consumes 690 million pounds of it in one holiday. To give you an idea of how much turkey that is, imagine the weight of 172,500 new Ford cars.

6. The first Thanksgiving lasted three days.

Americans generally take one day to celebrate Thanksgiving, unless you count the weekend after as a continuation of that celebration. Either way, today's Thanksgiving holiday doesn't hold a candle to the pilgrims' celebration. Over the course of three days, new inhabitants of American partook in plenty of good eating, games, dancing, and shooting to celebrate their arrival.

When you're at the table with family and friends for Turkey Day this November, test their holiday knowledge and see if they're aware of these six reasons Thanksgiving isn't your average American holiday. If you're traveling for Thanksgiving this year, make sure you plan accordingly and use our Thanksgiving travel tips to avoid traffic. Stop by our dealership to take car of any car repair or auto service your vehicle may need.

North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185, is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at (888) 806-7163, our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com
Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+ 

Delicious Side Dishes to Make for Thanksgiving

WESTLAND, Mich. –– Thanksgiving is known for the spectacular feasts and time spent with friends and family. To make your gathering unforgettable this November, we've gathered a few delicious side dishes to make for Thanksgiving, and they're sure to become a yearly staple at your Thanksgiving feast.

1. Classic Sweet Potato Casserole 

This mouthwatering sweet potato casserole is sure to be the talk of the town with crunchy pecans and sweet potatoes. For this recipe, you'll need:

• 4 1/2 lbs. sweet potatoes
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1 1/4 cups cornflakes cereal, crushed
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tbsp. brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees to start with, and then bake your sweet potatoes (whole) for one hour or until tender. Let them stand for about 20 minutes and then peel and mash them. Reduce the temperature of your oven to 350 degrees. Beat your mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, butter, milk, eggs ,salt and vanilla extract until smooth. Spoon potato mixture into a greased 11x7 inch banking dish. Combine cornflakes, pecans, sugar and butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle over casserole. Bake your dish for 30 minutes then remove from oven and sprinkle marshmallows on top of the cornflake mixture. After you do this, you'll want to bake an additional 10 minutes then let stand 10 minutes before serving.

2. Buttermilk Biscuits

This recipe has a surprising ingredient that takes the biscuit from good to extraordinary. You'll need:

• 2 cups self-rising flour (plus another cup for dusting work surface)
• 1/2 stick butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 tbsp. butter melted
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Preheat your oven to 500 degrees. In a large bowl, combine two cups of flour, butter pieces, and cream cheese. Use your fingers to cut in the butter and cream cheese until the mixture resembles cottage cheese. Add the buttermilk and mix with your hands or a small rubber spatula. Sprinkle flour over the dough, and then turn dough onto a well-floured surface. Take a rolling pin and roll out the dough into a 1/2 inch thick oval. Using a flour covered biscuit cutter, cut out the biscuits and brush the tops with melted butter. Place pan in the oven, immediately reduce temperature to 450 degrees, and bake for about 16–18 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.

3.  Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing. 

Thanksgiving is incomplete without stuffing. That's why we've gathered this delicious recipe that's great for stuffing inside the turkey, or just eating out of the banking dish. You'll need:

• 1 lb. fresh pork sausage, crumbled
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 lbs. prepared cornbread, cut into cubes
• 3 tbsp. finely chopped sage
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1–2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. You'll want to cook your sausage until browned and cooked through, and then transfer to a large bowl. Add the onion, celery and 1/4 cup water to the pan you cooked the sausage in. Reduce the heat and cook until vegetables soften. Season generously with salt and pepper and then add to sausage in bowl. Add the cornbread, sage, and eggs to sausage and veggie mixture. Bring broth to a simmer in a small saucepan and then pour 1/2 cup over stuffing and toss gently. If needed, add up to 1/2 cup more broth until stuffing feels slightly moist. You can stuff it into the turkey or spoon it into a baking pan to cook for 25 minutes.

With Thanksgiving rapidly approaching, we hope that these delicious side dishes to make for Thanksgiving have inspired you. While we're more than happy to supply you with great recipes to feed you and your family, our specialty is still with cars. If you have any questions concerning auto service like tires and brakes, don't hesitate to contact us or stop by our dealership!

 North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185, is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at (888) 806-7163, our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help!

Visit our website: www.northbros.comFollow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+ 

8 Turkey Tips to Cook the Best Bird on Thanksgiving

WESTLAND, Mich. –– The cooking of a Thanksgiving turkey is considered an art form of which your dinner guests serve as the critics. This makes loading a bird into an oven a more daunting task than it should be, not to mention turkeys are easy to dry out or undercook. To combat the stress of preparing a palatable meal for your family and friends this November, check out these eight turkey tips to cook the best bird on Thanksgiving, and we guarantee you'll please the pickiest of eaters.

1. Decide what the right size turkey is for your party. 

If you're hosting a large gathering, you'll probably need a 20-pound bird to satisfy their Thanksgiving appetites. A good way to estimate the size of the turkey you'll need is to assume every person at your party will eat about 1 1/2 pounds of turkey, including the bones and giblets.

2. Properly defrost your turkey. 

It's recommended you thaw your turkey in the refrigerator to stifle the growth of harmful bacteria. Place the turkey breast-side-up onto a rimmed baking sheet and place it in your fridge. Allow a full day of thawing for every four pounds of turkey.

3. Properly clean your turkey.

Remove the giblets and save them for gravy stock. Rinse the turkey under cool running water and dry it, inside and out, with paper towels. Make sure your turkey is completely dry.

4. Cook your turkey in a stainless steel roasting pan. 

Stainless steel roasting pans distribute heat more evenly, and they last a lifetime. It's best to use a rectangular roasting pan with medium height sides and strong handles to contain the size and weight of your turkey.

5. Don't stuff your turkey.  

When you stuff a moist turkey, you run the risk of harmful bacteria growing on your food if your turkey or stuff is undercooked. Instead, consider breaking tradition and cooking your stuffing in a separate dish.

6. If you do stuff your turkey, do it like this.

Make sure to stuff your turkey right before it goes in the oven as opposed to stuff it ahead of time. Stuffing expands as it cooks, so fill the turkey's cavity loosely. A 12–15-pound turkey takes about 10 cups of stuffing, while a 15–20-pound turkey can hold up to 12 cups.

7. Don't overcook or undercook your turkey. 

To avoid overcooking or undercooking your turkey, set it on a rack in a shallow roasting pan. After the first hour, regularly baste the turkey with pan drippings so that the meat stays moist and browns evenly. Roast your turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

8. Let your turkey rest after it cooks.

When your turkey is done, gently tent your turkey with aluminum foil and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to absorb the pan juices and what you basted it in.

Hopefully these eight turkey tips to cook the best bird on Thanksgiving get you through the holiday stress-free. If you have any further questions about cooking a turkey or fending off grumpy relatives who have special bird preferences, we're sad to admit we may not be the best resource. However, we can offer you a few tasty appetizer recipes that may put them at ease here. 

Additionally, if you have any questions about oil changes, auto service, or car repair for the fall and winter seasons, we'd be happy to assist you. North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185, is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at (888) 806-7163, our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com
Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+

You Could Win the Phantastic Pumpkin Photo Contest at North Bros!

WESTLAND, Mich. –– It’s no surprise that fall is Michigan’s most festive season of the year offering plenty of fall activities to take part in, whether it’s visiting a cider mill, decorating your home, or, best of all, baking plenty with plenty of pumpkin recipes.

We took into account everyone’s love for pumpkins and decided nothing could be better during this season than to hold a Phantastic Pumpkin Photo Contest as Halloween draws near!

Between now and Oct. 31, we challenge you to take the most creative pumpkin themed photo you can come up with. All things go, including carving, decorating, painting, visiting a pumpkin patch, baking––anything pumpkin related!

Tag North Brothers Ford in your photo on any of these social media networks: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram, or post your photo directly to the North Brothers Ford Facebook wall! We’ll add your photo to our Phantastic Pumpkin Photo Contest album and enter you to WIN a $100 Amazon gift card! How simple is that?

You must tag North Brothers Ford in your photo or post it directly to our Facebook wall in order to be entered into the Phantastic Pumpkin Photo Contest. One winner of the $100 Amazon gift card will be chosen at random. You’re welcome to tag or post as many pumpkin themed photos as you like, but a higher number of photos won’t increase your chance of winning.

We’re excited to see what creative pumpkin themed photos our customers can generate between now and Halloween! We’ll notify the winner after Oct. 31. In the meantime, check out these pumpkin-carving ideas to get your creative juices flowing.

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by, or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

How to Inspect Your Vehicle for the Fall Season

WESTLAND, Mich. –– The summer is long gone and we’ve officially been thrust into fall, or maybe it’s best to say the season has descended upon us with its colorful falling leaves and autumnal aromas. It’s high time in Michigan to get lost in a corn maze, traverse through a pumpkin patch, and partake in as many cinnamon-sugar doughnuts and cider as possible.

But autumn is also a prime season to make sure your vehicle is as maintained as it should be. To ensure our customers are prepared to drive through the next few months and into winter, we wanted to share how to inspect your vehicle for the fall season. Follow these tips to enjoy the season without worrying that your vehicle isn’t in good shape.

Inspect Your Battery

The last thing you want to happen is for your batter to stop working. Considering that your batter is what allows your vehicle to run in the first place, it makes sense that you should check it on a regular basis. If your engine struggles to start or you notice other signs of old age like corrosion around the terminals, bring your vehicle to the certified service pros at North Bros. Our techs will test your battery and offer you the best replacement available if necessary.

Inspect Your Brakes

Fall means leaves, which means kids raking said leaves into huge piles, then proceeding to sprint and jump into them. In essence, fall is a season of kids playing outside. This is just one example of why it’s important for your vehicle to have high-functioning brakes that allow you to come to an immediate stop if necessary. Our brake techs can perform an ABS System Diagnosis and brake inspection for you if you notice these signs with your brakes: 

• The brake system warning light turns on
• The brake pedal is vibrating
• An inconsistent brake performance
• Your brake pedal feels soft or goes to the floor
• There is a squealing or grinding sound when applying the brakes
• You smell a burning odor
• Metallic flakes are peeling off the brakes

Inspect Your Tires

It’s always dangerous driving on worn tires, but it’s especially hazardous in the fall when a heavy rain plasters a coating of dead leaves onto the streets. Conditions like this can cause your vehicle to slide without warning if your tires are too worn. If you notice your tires are balding, tread worn, or are causing your vehicle to easily slip in wet conditions, you might need a tire rotation or replacement. This fall, head to our factory-trained tire experts for any of these services:

• Tire rotations
• New tire installation
• Tire mounting and balancing

Inspect Your Lamps and Bulbs

Despite its colorful exhibits throughout October and November, fall can turn out to be fairly bleak with plenty of gray skies. It gets dark early on in this season, so it’s important that your vehicle’s lamps and bulbs function at their best. You can check your vehicle’s lights to see if any are burnt out, then stop by North Bros for a quick replacement of your headlamp, tail lamp, or any interior cabin bulbs.

Inspect Your Wiper Blades

Autumn is a season of falling things –– acorns, leaves, those helicopters no one knows the actual name for –– that get stuck in the area above your vehicle’s hood, and then sometimes the rain decides to join in. Make sure your wipers are prepared to battle all of fall’s fallings so you can witness the beautiful foliage on the other side of your windshield.

Rather than worrying about the reoccurring issues with your vehicle, spend your time enjoying all Michigan has to offer this autumn. Take our advice on how to inspect your vehicle for the fall season and stop by our Dearborn dealer for the auto service you need.

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by, or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

North Brothers Ford Fall Frenzy Instagram Giveaway

WESTLAND, Mich. – The famous Anne of Green Gables took the words right out of our mouthes when she said, "I'm so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers." October is one of our absolute FAVORITE months! The air gets crisper, the leaves change to beautiful, bright colors, and of course, there are pumpkins just about EVERYWHERE we turn! What's not to love? We have decided to celebrate the charm of this cozy season with our North Brothers Ford Fall Frenzy Instagram Giveaway! 

Starting Monday, October 13th through Monday, November 3rd, join us in sharing some of your fall favorites through the North Brothers Ford Fall Frenzy Instagram Giveaway! To take part in our fall fun, all you have to do is upload a photo of anything and everything autumn related to Instagram with the hashtag #InstaFall, and the tag @northbros. Once the contest has come to an end, we will randomly pick 5 LUCKY Fall Frenzy winners! Everyone who presents their fall inspiration to us has the chance to win some INCREDIBLE gifts cards such as Starbucks cards, visa cards, and gas cards! 

What's your FAVORITE thing about fall? We want to see it! Whether it is a festive recipe, craft, an outing to the cider mill or your fashion picks, be sure to share it all! Check out all of our social networks (links below) to keep up with all of our wonderful fall ideas. We can't wait for all the autumn awesomeness ahead! 

Want to turn over a new leaf by purchasing a BRAND-NEW vehicle? Stop by, or give us a call at (888) 806-7163, our knowledgeable sales team would be happy to help find the perfect car for you!  North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185, is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com.
Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and Google+