Blog

Each year, Dimmitt Automotive Group celebrates examples of outstanding character. Everyday, these Brand Champions show the Dimmitt values, a customer-centered attitude, and dedication to our community. The Dimmitt Brand Champions show a willingness to serve and a commitment to making a positive impact on those around them. Each Dimmitt manager votes for a Brand Champion, then celebrates them during the Holiday Luncheon. We are thankful to work on a team with individuals that show such wonderful character. These individuals each show the Dimmitt philosophies. They go above and beyond, and brighten our lives. St. Pete From our St. Pete location, we want to thank Angel Baez, Robbie Booz, and Kathy Dunn. Angel works as an Internal Service Advisor and has been with us since August of 2017. The Dimmitt managers commented on his work ethic saying he is “Very hard working, willing to help with anything he is asked to do. Jumps in to help even when he has not been asked.” Robbie Booz. Robbie has been in our Detail Department since February of 2015. The managers also commented on his incredible work ethic, saying he “stays late, comes in almost every weekend to make sure everything gets done on time.” Kathy is an outstanding receptionist who has been with us since April of 2019. The managers commented that she is “Always looking to improve our processes. She is a great communicator and thinks about the big picture.” Cadillac Clearwater From our Clearwater location, we want to thank Richey Miscione, Clint Darres, Jeff Sarver, Jay Hannush, Corey Allen, Michelle Adkins, Ivan Sanchez, and Norb Kwiatek. Richey is an Aspire Technician who has been with us since January of 1987. The managers commented on his work ethic saying he “is always willing to help out even without being asked.” Clint Darres is a Parts Associate who has been with us since January of 2014. According to the managers, “He goes above and beyond the call of duty with customers and fellow employees. He is HAPPY to work here and an unsung helpful hero!” Jeff Sarver is a Porter who has been with us since October of 2007. According to the managers, he has “the absolute ‘whatever it takes” attitude. Jeff is often pulled in many different directions, but never complains.” Jay Hannush is an Internal Service Advisor who has been with us since August of 2012. According to the managers, he is “Always willing to help in any way possible regardless of within his job duties. He has a great attitude and cares.” Corey Allen is a Maintenance Tech who has been with us since May of 2009. According to the managers, “Corey is the unsung hero of the DAG. Every day, any time of the day, he is always available and willing to help everyone.” Michelle Adkins is an Accounting Clerk who has been with us since May of 2013. According to the managers, “Michelle is a key member of the McCormick team as she supports multiple dealerships and always does so with a smile on her face.” Ivan Sanchez is a Collision Center Technician who has been with us since May of 2017. According to the managers, he “is an all-around team player. No matter what the job is he never complains.” Norb Kwiatek is a Collision Technician (Painter) who has been with us since February of 2006. According to the managers, “His leadership is key to our success; assuring our guests are completely satisfied with the refinish of their vehicles.” Audi Wesley Chapel From Audi Wesley Chapel, we would like to thank Cecilia Daddio, Shane Brown, and Lisa McMonigle. Cecilia is a wonderful Service Advisor. According to the managers, “Cecilia will take a seemingly impossible task and make it possible. She is the root to my beer.” Shane Brown is an incredible technician. The the managers commented, “It’s difficult to put into words my appreciation for Shane. He is one of the most selfless individuals I have ever met. He treats everyone with respect and professionalism and prides himself on sharing his extensive knowledge with others.” When it came to Lisa, the outstanding Receptionist, the managers commented she “is not only a loyal employee, she is trusted as well. Lisa has shown the ability to manage multiple tasks at the same time as well as always maintaining a positive attitude while meeting our guests via phone or in person.” Village Cadillac and Toyota From our Village location, we want to thank Kim Garcia, Rebecca Owen, Brian Jennette, and Chris Barlow. Kim is an outstanding Service Admin. The managers commented on her attitude, saying she “Always willing to help the team and is always positive.” Rebecca is a wonderful part of the  BDC team. Her managers commented that she, “goes above and beyond for our clients.” Brian is an incredible Sales Consultant. The managers commented on his “Positive attitude. He leads the team by example.” Chris is an incredible Service Technician. The managers commented on his work ethic, saying “Chris will always work when it's his day off and if I am short  handed and need extra help.” The Dimmitt Brand Champions are leading examples of everything Dimmitt stands for. Thank you to each of our 2019 Brand Champions. You make Dimmitt a wonderful place to work. Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Holiday Luncheon! We are already excited for next year!

On Sunday, December 1st, 2019, Dimmitt Automotive Group started the holiday season with a bang! Every year for the past 18 years, Dimmitt has participated in a Toys for Tots Rally, and this year was no different.  Run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve, Toys for Tots distributes toys to the children of families who cannot afford to buy gifts for Christmas. [gallery size="full" columns="2" link="none" ids="307429,307430"] This year, there were 130 cars that joined the rally. Each brought new, unwrapped gifts to donate. There were trunks stuffed with toys, two Cadillac Escalades, and a Rolls-Royce Wraith completely full of toys. The cars wrapped around the McLaren Tampa Bay parking lot in two lines and ended behind Dimmitt Cadillac St. Pete. All makes and models were welcome, so a large variety of cars participated, including classics, Mini Coopers, and (of course) supercars. [gallery size="full" link="none" columns="2" ids="307424,307428"] After a safety meeting hosted by the Sheriff’s Department of Hillsborough County, the drivers set out. They drove from the Dimmitt McLaren Showroom in St. Petersburg to the Marine Corps Toy Warehouse in Tampa. There, they unloaded hundreds of toys for children. The rally ended at Armature Works in Tampa. [gallery columns="2" size="full" link="none" ids="307427,307426"] Thank you to the deputies of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department for giving your time to a wonderful cause and for escorting our drivers through Tampa Bay safely. Thank you to the generous drivers and others who donated toys to the program. And thank you to everyone who joined us and made the event a complete success. We appreciate your support and donations! [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="full" ids="307425,307423"]

On Friday, November 22, 2019, Dimmitt Automotive Group hosted Festival of Speed’s Wheels, Watches, Whiskey, & Wine event at the Sarasota Studio. [gallery link="none" size="full" ids="307414,307416,307417"] It was a glamorous night filled with exotic vehicles, fabulous time pieces, and unique spirits. The night was full of fun and luxury brands. There were tables presenting these timepieces, spirits, and more throughout our showroom. Attendees were able to enjoy tasting over 40 different wines and spirits. [gallery size="full" link="none" ids="307413,307406,307407"] The all-new 2020 Bentley New Flying Spur was showcased at the event! This is the first event showcasing the new model. Graceful yet commanding, the Bentley New Flying Spur is “a unique fusion of breathtaking performance, contemporary design and intuitive technology. It delivers an enriching experience for both the driver and those who prefer to be driven.” You can learn more about the Bentley New Flying Spur here. [gallery size="full" link="none" ids="307408,307409,307411"] It was an exquisite night all around. Thank you to all who joined us and all our lovely vendors. The night wouldn’t have been possible without you.

On Thursday, November 21, 2019, the Dimmitt Automotive Group was a sponsor at this year’s  Charity Works Golf Tournament. The tournament took place at Belleair Country Club and benefitted underprivileged families and children through a program called Give Hope USA®. “The main goal of the program is to strengthen the outreach efforts of others who are responsible for implementing programs and activities that promote health, hope and happiness. The program provides various personal hygiene kits, packs and special gifts at no charge to those who are eligible and agree to participate.” You can learn more about Give Hope USA® here. Dimmitt is proud to be a part of an event that does so much for our community. It is programs like Give Hope USA® that make our community stronger.

It was the perfect day for a car show. Visitors gathered Sunday, November 10 to enjoy a stunning display of vintage and classic vehicles on the waterfront of St. Petersburg. Hosted by the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, the annual Vintage Motor Classic did not disappoint. Dimmitt Automotive Group was a proud sponsor of the event. Grouped by era and by origin, the vehicles on the lawn of the yacht club could have driven right out of a classic film. Domestics and exotics alike impressed onlookers. Judges remarked to one another on the owners’ attention to detail. [gallery size="full" ids="307346,307347,307345"] All for Some Great Causes But the day wasn’t just about the vehicles. The annual Vintage Motor Classic is also one of the yacht club’s most popular fundraising events. While the crowd enjoyed the fair weather and the gorgeous display, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club sold tickets and t-shirts in an effort to raise funds for their supported charities, Pet Pal Animal Shelter and Music Sweet Music. [gallery size="full" columns="2" ids="307343,307342"] Pet Pal Animal Shelter Located in St. Petersburg, Pet Pal Animal Shelter (formerly known as “Pet Pal Rescue”) was founded by two driven women who wanted to decrease the number of animals being euthanized due to overpopulation and neglect. Pet Pal has grown from a two-women operation to a multi-tier organization and expanded to include a veterinary clinic and thrift store. And while they’ve grown to meet the needs of an overpopulated pet population, the organization has stayed true to their mission. Pet Pal Animal Shelter is a no-kill shelter which will only euthanize an animal in the event of terminal illness or uncorrectable aggression. [gallery size="full" ids="307340,307341,307348"] Music Sweet Music, Inc. Music Sweet Music, Inc. is a nonprofit organization founded in 2001 which seeks to bring music therapy to children and adults with illnesses, diseases and disorders. They use music therapy to address physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs in individuals. Currently, Music Sweet Music, Inc. runs programs in several hospitals, including Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, and Shriners’ Children’s Hospital, among others. Board certified music therapists bring calm joy to patients battling serious illness. Thank you to everyone who came out to see some truly remarkable vehicles and to support these wonderful local charities. We can’t wait until the 2020 Vintage Motor Classic!

On Monday, November 11, 2019, the Dimmitt Automotive Group celebrated Veterans Day in a special way. Veterans in the Tampa Bay area were invited to stop by the Clearwater or St. Pete showrooms for our annual luncheon. Veterans and guests enjoyed a catered lunch of delicious barbeque by Jones Catering. The luncheon provided an opportunity for guests to mingle and show support to each other. Some of the veterans that attended served our country during the Vietnam War, World War II, and more. In addition to the guest veterans, some our own Dimmitt employees are veterans as well. Dimmitt is honored to serve those who have served us. We would like to extend our thanks and deepest gratitude for those who served our country. [gallery columns="2" link="none" size="full" ids="307335,307336"] Additionally, we extend a huge thank you to everyone who attended our luncheon. We are proud to have had the opportunity to serve our local veterans. We look forward to our next Veterans Day luncheon.

This past Saturday, November 11, 2019, the Dimmitt Automotive Group hosted the Rally for Hope - Jeeps vs. Cars, a cruise for Autism Awareness benefitting the organization Autism Speaks. Starting outside of the Dimmitt Ultra Luxury Showroom, cars and Jeeps lined up before the start of the rally. The morning began with a brunch in the showroom, followed by free time to take photos and check out the vehicles up-close. The kids were able to take a quick ride in some of the cars before they took off for their cruise for Autism Awareness. The Dimmitt Automotive Group is grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with Autism Speaks. “Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.” They aim to do the most good for the most people impacted by autism. You can learn more about them on their website. Dimmitt is thankful to have worked closely with an organization that is continuously making a positive impact. Thank you to all who joined us! We hope everyone had as great of a time as we did.

On Wednesday, October 16, 2019, the Dimmitt Automotive Group was honored to be part of the Perfect Bond event. It was a wonderful night full of live music, treats, and, of course, ultra luxury cars. The event took place in our Aston Martin Showroom and benefitted a local organization, My Hope Chest. My Hope Chest funds reconstruction for breast cancer survivors. “My Hope Chest was founded by Alisa Savoretti in the fall of 2003. A breast cancer survivor and Las Vegas Showgirl, she was 38 and without insurance at the time of her diagnosis.” You can learn more about My Hope Chest on their website, “ https://www.myhopechest.org/” This is the only organization nationally that funds the final stage of breast cancer treatment: breast reconstruction. As something that is so important to the survivor, this organization makes it their mission to make women whole again. The Perfect Bond featured delicious treats, a catered dinner, and more. There was lovely jewelry and shirts available to purchase, each unique and beautiful. There was a silent auction with incredible baskets- all proceeds benefitting My Hope Chest. To add to the amazing night, there was even some live music. The Tampa Tones, the University of Tampa’s competitive A cappella group, joined and provided two breathtaking songs. The live music featured left everyone speechless and added that much more to the night. [gallery size="full" link="none" ids="307292,307289,307290"] This incredible organization does so much for breast cancer survivors, in addition to educating the community. The Dimmitt Automotive Group was proud to host an event with My Hope Chest. Thank you to all who joined us and made the night such a success. [gallery link="none" size="full" ids="307294,307292,307288"]

This Saturday, Dimmitt Automotive had the opportunity to support the Exotic Car Festival presented by the Ferrari Drivers Group Sarasota. The Exotic Car Festival was held at Saint Armands Circle in Sarasota, FL. This event benefits  "Flight to the North Pole" which is a local charity by the Manatee Sheriff's Office for terminally ill children The mission of Flight to the North Pole, Inc. is to bring joy to terminally ill children during the holiday season. By partnering with various agencies within the community, Flight to the North Pole is able to transport “Santa” via helicopter to events to interact with kids. At these events Santa presents them with gifts, lunch, and entertainment. The circle was full of exotic cars and people enjoying them. We were thrilled to be able to showcase some of our cars, as well! Thank you so much to everyone in the community who came out to enjoy a day of exotic cars and a great cause.

The Dimmitt Automotive Group hosted a Track Day at Sebring International Raceway on Friday, September 20th. This yearly event allows high performance car owners to rev their engines and go. There aren’t always a lot of opportunities for high performance cars to reach the high thrilling speeds they long for. Track Day offers that opportunity. The owners of these high performance cars are able to drive at high speeds around the track. Each driver takes five laps around the Sebring Track, allowing all expertise levels to have a chance to drive, from novices to experts. The Sebring Raceway offers a rich history for drivers. It is the oldest in road racing track in America, with over six decades of experience. It was originally a World War II Air Force Training Base. In more recent years, it was purchased by the US Government and transformed into the raceway we see today. There was an exciting energy all day. Drivers and passengers arrived first thing in the morning with their specialized high performance car and the air of adventure. After spending some time learning about the track and the safety rules, they were able to start driving. Drivers strapped on their helmets and took off. Each group raced around the track and after their five thrilling laps, the next group started. From beginner, to intermediate, to expert, each group brought a new exciting race to watch. [gallery size="full" link="file" ids="306032,306033,306034"] The break with the catered lunch allowed our participants to relax, take a break, and meet one another. Then, it was time to hit the track again. More groups continued their exhilarating laps. There is nothing that compares to these high performance vehicles revving their engines and racing off at top speed. The winding turns of the track allowed the drivers to navigate an exciting road. There was a wide array of high performance vehicles participating, including some McLaren vehicles, Corvette vehicles, an Audi, and more. Each car was highly personalized and quick as a whip. It was the adventure of a lifetime for drivers and passengers and a thrilling day for all car enthusiasts. Thank you to our participants for making the event such a raving success. Would you like to see even more photos and learn how you can download complimentary photos for yourself? Follow us on Facebook and keep an eye out!

80 luxury vehicles left Dimmitt Automotive as part of the Corsa America rally this morning. Sports cars and ultra-luxury vehicles met at Dimmitt Automotive and took off towards their next locations as part of the modern road rally, Corsa 19: Florida. Corsa 19: Florida is one of several events created by Corsa America, the largest exotic sports car rally in the United States. These rallies bring car enthusiasts together and offer events and excursions as you travel across North America and Europe. Those who participate create friendships and have the adventure of a lifetime. There was tons of excitement as the cars left Dimmitt Automotive. The rally will be traveling to Key Biscayne for two nights before finishing the trip in Orlando. From a McLaren 720s MSO to a  Corve tte Z06, the cars were jaw dropping. The community was invited to watch the cars head to the next location of the rally. It was great to see so many members of our community come and enjoy these exotic vehicles. [gallery size="medium" link="file" ids="305959,305956,305955"] Along with creating the memories of a lifetime, those participating in the rally were invited to bring a toy to help kick off this year’s Dimmitt Automotive’s Toys for Tots campaign. Between the participants and the members of the community, there was an abundance of toys! We are so thankful for those donations; we could not have asked for a better kickoff for this year’s campaign! The exotic cars filled the streets of Pinellas Park while the police escorted them down Gandy Boulevard to I-275 southbound and over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and I-75 South. One supercar after another heading through the street was a pure joy to watch. It was a sight unlike any other and we hope those who watched it enjoyed. [gallery size="medium" link="file" ids="305960,305961,305954"]

It doesn’t get sweeter than this! At Dimmitt Automotive Group, we truly are a family. We appreciate all of our wonderful associates who work hard everyday. Periodically, we try to take some time to do a little something to say thank you to our team. To show our team how “cool” they are, we decided to throw an ice cream social. [gallery size="full" ids="305930,305929,305928"] We had a social for the associates of Dimmitt Cadillac St. Pete, Dimmitt Cadillac Clearwater, and our Dimmitt Certified Collision Center. All associates were able to come by, relax, and have a sweet treat. If you are interested in joining the Dimmitt team, we have many jobs available on our careers page. We are thankful for all our associates, and know that it takes a whole team to be successful. We want to thank our extended Dimmitt family for the work they do every day. [gallery size="full" ids="305933,305934,305935"] [gallery columns="4" size="medium" ids="305936,305938,305931,305937"] Visit our Careers Page