Not many people who win a brand new Chevrolet Silverado pickup would give it up before ever taking a spin.
But that is exactly what Palmetto resident Paul Harloff did.
Harloff was the winner of this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival vehicle raffle from Stingray Chevrolet. With four vehicles already, including a Camaro and Silverado, Harloff decided not to take the truck.
“I just don’t need any more vehicles,” Harloff said. “Not to mention, the truck wouldn’t fit into my garage. I’d hate for that nice of a truck to have to sit outside.”
Although originally there was a “no cash value option” for the raffle, Stingray owner Steve Hurley made an exception for Harloff, presenting him and his wife, Soikaew, with a check for the value of the truck, during a presentation April 4.
NICE AND SHINY
Stingray Chevrolet celebrated its grand re-opening following a $2.5 million renovation. The improvements include remodeled bathrooms, expansions to the facility and showroom and improvements to the parts and services department, including the additions of computer stations.
High-ranking Chevrolet executives from across the state and country were in attendance for the celebration.
“This type of facility is what makes Chevrolet a proud company across the United States,” said Don Johnson, the VP of sales and service for Chevrolet. “It is a reflection of the broader resurgence of Chevrolet moving forward.”
Representatives from Disney and the Florida Strawberry Festival were also in attendance. Stingray has partnered with Disney as part of its “Everyday Hero” campaign.
“We have had a great partnership with Disney over the years,” Hurley said. “The Florida Strawberry Festival has been such a critical partner in these giveaways. There is no way we could do what we do without them.”
Bartow Chevrolet, run by Hurley’s son, Matt, also will be remodeled.
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Stingray has been involved with charity raffles at the festival for the past five years and has raised $385,000 for Unity in the Community, a local non-profit organization.
This was the first year Stingray has raffled a truck, after giving away Camaros the first three years. The majority of funds are raised from tickets, with additional money coming from donations from corporate sponsors.
Contact Matt Mauney at mmauney@plantcityobserver.com.