Remembering
In this concluding column in this series, I am speaking to Eric Eberhardt of Eberhardt Motors in Egypt. This year, they are observing their 90th anniversary. The dealership has served thousands of satisfied customers, one being this "soo" called writer. The oldest customer is 95 years of age. Many senior citizens remain loyal customers.
I asked Eric what was his longest automobile delivery? With a smile and grin on his face he replied, "Always ask where the customer lives. One gentlemen was a native of Egypt but he now resided in Lexington, Ky. We drove the Dodge down to Lexington and flew back home on a plane.
"In another case we drove a Cadillac down to Maryland. The customer saw the car listed on CARS.com which is our website. We met the customer and he paid by check without even looking at the car. I always tell our customers, 'There is nothing here I would not put in my own driveway.'"
Eric said two courses which really helped him dealing with customers were sociology and psychology.
"There is still an old-fashioned way to conduct business," he said. "Talking and interacting with customers offers them a no-pressure, relaxing atmosphere, and this leads to a good buying experience.
"Most of our customers are greeted on a first-name basis. During my first years of marriage, I resided next to the garage. The phone rang frequently on a Sunday afternoon."
I asked about the busiest months at the garage.
Eric said, "March through May are very busy sales months. January and February are the slowest, but the service department is busy 12 months a year."
The end of Plymouth production by Chrysler caused the Eberhardts to alter direction without missing a beat. Today, they are proud of their "Advanced Star" dealership selling certified pre-owned cars.
The dealership walls are filled with many prestigious awards for business and public service. The service at the garage is provided by dedicated employees including Christopher Walz, Dan Frick, David Correll, Eric Eberhardt, Jeremy Snyder, Jimmy Wach, Lynn Eberhardt, Marc Deichmeister, Nathan Eberhardt, Nicole Eberhardt, William Gasdaska Jr. and Zachary Eberhardt.
Eric has been married to the former Lynn Berger for 30 years. She is a highly skilled title clerk. Daughter Nicole is office manager, Nathan is in the service department and Zachary is a part-timer.
Eberhardt Motors has not forgotten the community. When legendary Ron "Pumpkin" Miller requested a score board for Egypt Memorial Park where his team played their baseball games, the Eberhardts came to his aid. The Eberhardt boys always remember their youth playing on the park grounds.
They also recently helped in the restoration of the caboose on the well-walked Ironton Rail-Trail. Eric has served with the Wildlife Conservatory and the Whitehall Chamber of Commerce. Last year he had the honor to drive Egypt's finest, Curt Simmons, when the great baseball star was honored by his home community with a parade.
Mr. Frank Muldowney gave the typical comment about the business. The Danielsville resident said, "Good service and a good reputation is why I and many customers come here for service."
This writer was happy to write this series as a customer and friend of the Eberhardts and their employees. I received excellent cooperation from Mr. Eric Eberhardt and his daughter, Nicole. She's great. Thanks also to my loyal photographer Mr. Larry Oberly.
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I'll be somewhere in two weeks, please keep reading! Hope Larry brings his camera!








