Family-Owned Cascade Tire Pros Celebrated as Salem‘s Business of the Year
Table of Contents
- 1. Family-Owned Cascade Tire Pros Celebrated as Salem’s Business of the Year
- 2. A Legacy Rooted in Family and Service
- 3. Generational Transition and Continued Success
- 4. Community Engagement and future Outlook
- 5. Maintaining Vehicle Health: A Long-Term Investment
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Maintenance
- 7. What specific contributions has Cascade Tire Pros made to the Salem economy over the past 50 years?
- 8. Cascade Tire Pros Celebrated as Salem’s Business of the Year After 50 Years of Excellence
- 9. A Legacy of Service: 50 Years in Salem
- 10. The History of cascade Tire Pros: from Humble Beginnings to Local Icon
- 11. What Sets Cascade Tire Pros Apart? Key Services & Expertise
- 12. Community Involvement: More Than Just a Business
- 13. The Impact of the “Business of the Year” Award
- 14. benefits of Choosing a Local, Award-Winning Tire & Auto Shop
- 15. Staying Ahead: Cascade Tire Pros and the Future of Automotive Service
Salem, Oregon – Cascade Tire pros, a cornerstone of the Salem automotive service industry for over five decades, has been honored as the “Business of the Year” by the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce. the award recognizes the shop’s enduring commitment to quality service, community involvement, and a legacy built on family values.
A Legacy Rooted in Family and Service
Founded in 1971 by lance Hazelbaker,Cascade Tire Pros began as a small operation fueled by a dedication to honest automotive care. The business moved to its current location at 1795 12th St. S.E. in 1981, becoming a fixture in the Northeast Salem community. Lance’s vision centered on providing reliable tire sales and comprehensive auto repairs, including oil changes, brake service, wheel alignments, and engine diagnostics.
the shop’s story is interwoven with personal milestones. Lance met his future wife, Becky, in 1973 when she sought studded tires for her vehicle. Their marriage in 1975 brought the beginning of a true family enterprise, raising two children, Ryan and Jill, within the bustling environment of the tire shop.
Becky Hazelbaker has been an integral part of the business since its early days, managing bookkeeping and advertising efforts, and continues to contribute in a bookkeeping capacity today. The Hazelbaker family’s commitment extends beyond transactions; they have consistently prioritized building long-lasting relationships with their customers.
Generational Transition and Continued Success
Ryan Hazelbaker took the reins of Cascade tire Pros in 2011, succeeding his father. While Lance initially encouraged Ryan to explore other career paths – earning him a Master of Business Administration from Willamette University – Ryan’s passion ultimately led him back to the family business.Lance then transitioned into an advisory role, supporting Ryan’s leadership.
“He really didn’t want me to work here,” Hazelbaker said. “He was pretty steadfast against it,and he forced me to go try some things,and I was,I’ll say,resistant to some of them…This is really what I wanted to do.”
The impact of Lance Hazelbaker’s guidance is still felt strongly within the shop. His office remains preserved as it was during his lifetime, a testament to his enduring influence – complete with photos of family baseball teams and accolades. Lance Hazelbaker passed away in 2020.
Business Performance: Auto repair Industry Trends
| Metric | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 (Projected) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industry Revenue (US) | $140 Billion | $148 Billion | $155 Billion |
| Average Repair Cost | $400 | $450 | $500 |
| Number of Auto Repair Shops | 220,000 | 225,000 | 230,000 |
Source: IBISWorld Industry Report, Automotive Repair & maintenance
Community Engagement and future Outlook
Ryan Hazelbaker has carried forward his father’s commitment to community involvement, actively sponsoring local festivals, sporting events, and school programs. A particular favorite is the annual Harvestfest at E.Z. Orchards in Northeast Salem. Recently, the shop donated tires and maintenance services to the Queen of Peace Catholic School, Ryan’s former school.
“There’s a lot of great businesses doing a lot of great things and so to get singled out amongst a whole group of businesses in this community is pretty special,” Hazelbaker remarked. The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce CEO, Tom Hoffert, lauded Cascade Tire Pros for their altruism and positive impact during the award ceremony.
Hazelbaker emphasizes creating a positive work environment for his team of over a dozen technicians, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect.He plans to encourage his daughter,Rory,to pursue her own passions,offering support and opportunities as she navigates her future.
Did You Know? Family-owned businesses account for 60% of all employment in the united States.
Pro tip: regular tire maintenance, including proper inflation and rotation, can significantly improve fuel efficiency and extend tire lifespan.
Maintaining Vehicle Health: A Long-Term Investment
The success story of Cascade Tire Pros underscores the enduring value of a customer-centric approach in the automotive service industry. Proactive vehicle maintenance, performed by skilled technicians, is not merely a cost but an investment in safety, reliability, and long-term savings. Prioritizing regular check-ups, timely repairs, and quality parts can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure optimal vehicle performance for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Auto Maintenance
- What is the recommended tire rotation schedule? Typically, tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure even wear.
- How often should I get an oil change? Most vehicles require an oil change every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but check yoru owner’s manual for specific recommendations.
- What are the signs that I need new brakes? Squealing noises,grinding sounds,or a soft brake pedal are all indicators that your brakes may need attention.
- How dose wheel alignment improve vehicle performance? Proper wheel alignment enhances handling, extends tire life, and improves fuel efficiency.
- What is the importance of checking tire pressure? Maintaining correct tire pressure ensures optimal handling, braking, and fuel economy, as well as prevents premature tire wear.
What qualities do you value most in a local automotive repair shop? Do you think family-owned businesses offer a unique advantage in customer service?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
What specific contributions has Cascade Tire Pros made to the Salem economy over the past 50 years?
Cascade Tire Pros Celebrated as Salem’s Business of the Year After 50 Years of Excellence
A Legacy of Service: 50 Years in Salem
Cascade Tire Pros, a cornerstone of the Salem, Oregon automotive service community, recently received the prestigious “Business of the Year” award from the salem Area Chamber of Commerce.this recognition celebrates five decades of dedicated service, community involvement, and unwavering commitment to quality tire sales and auto repair. For Salem residents, Cascade Tire Pros isn’t just a business; it’s a trusted partner in keeping their vehicles safe and reliable.
The History of cascade Tire Pros: from Humble Beginnings to Local Icon
Founded in 1975 by Robert Miller, Cascade Tire Pros began as a small, family-owned tire shop focused on providing honest service and competitive pricing. Initially specializing in passenger car and light truck tires, the business quickly gained a reputation for integrity and expertise.
Early Years (1975-1990): Focused on building relationships within the Salem community, offering tire rotations, balancing, and basic repairs.
Expansion & Diversification (1990-2005): Expanded service offerings to include brake repair, oil changes, and alignment services.Began carrying a wider range of tire brands, including Michelin, Goodyear, and Bridgestone.
Modernization & Growth (2005-Present): Invested in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and expanded the team of certified technicians. Embraced digital marketing and online appointment scheduling to enhance customer convenience.
Today, the business is lead by Robert’s son, David Miller, who continues to uphold the core values established by his father. The company employs over 20 local residents, contributing substantially to the Salem economy.
What Sets Cascade Tire Pros Apart? Key Services & Expertise
Cascade Tire Pros offers a thorough suite of automotive services designed to meet the diverse needs of Salem drivers. Beyond simply selling tires, they provide a holistic approach to vehicle maintainance.
tire Sales & Services: A vast selection of tires from leading brands, including options for all seasons, performance, and specialized vehicles. Services include tire installation, rotation, balancing, and repair.
Auto Repair: Experienced technicians provide a full range of repair services, including:
Brake Services (pads, rotors, lines)
Oil Changes & Fluid Checks
Alignment & Suspension Repair
Engine Diagnostics
Battery testing & Replacement
Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance packages designed to extend the life of your vehicle and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Commercial Tire Services: Catering to local businesses wiht fleet tire management solutions, including commercial tire sales, installation, and maintenance.
Community Involvement: More Than Just a Business
Cascade Tire Pros has a long history of giving back to the Salem community. Their commitment extends beyond providing quality automotive services.
Sponsorships: Regularly sponsors local sports teams, school events, and charitable organizations.
Charitable Donations: Supports local food banks and shelters with annual donations.
Community Events: Hosts free tire safety clinics and car care workshops for Salem residents.
partnerships: Collaborates with local automotive schools to provide internship opportunities for aspiring technicians.
The Impact of the “Business of the Year” Award
The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce’s “Business of the Year” award is a testament to Cascade Tire Pros’ enduring commitment to excellence. The award recognizes not only business success but also positive contributions to the Salem community.
“this award isn’t just for us; it’s for our amazing team and the loyal customers who have supported us for the past 50 years,” said David Miller during the award ceremony. “We’re proud to be a part of the Salem community and look forward to serving our customers for manny years to come.”
benefits of Choosing a Local, Award-Winning Tire & Auto Shop
Selecting a local, reputable auto shop like Cascade tire pros offers several advantages:
Personalized Service: Building relationships with technicians who understand your vehicle and driving needs.
Community Trust: Supporting a business that invests in the local economy and community.
Expertise & Reliability: Access to certified technicians and high-quality parts.
Convenience: Easy access and convenient appointment scheduling.
Long-Term Value: Preventative maintenance and expert repairs that extend the life of your vehicle.
Staying Ahead: Cascade Tire Pros and the Future of Automotive Service
Cascade Tire Pros isn’t resting on its laurels. The company is actively embracing new technologies and trends in the automotive industry. This includes:
Electric Vehicle (EV) Service: Investing in training and equipment to service the growing number of electric vehicles on Salem roads.
Advanced Diagnostics: Utilizing cutting-edge diagnostic tools to accurately identify and resolve complex vehicle issues.
Digital Customer Experience: Continuously improving online services, including appointment scheduling, online tire browsing, and digital vehicle health reports.
* Lasting Practices: Exploring environmentally friendly tire disposal and recycling options.
