When you’ve had as much success as John and Jaime Blanton, there is plenty for which to be thankful this holiday season. But the Blantons, who own an Alta Mere/SmartView store in Denton, Texas, are grateful for more than just their store’s prosperity. Their loving family, supportive community and dedicated employees are all reasons for which the Blantons can give thanks. John, an ASE certified technician and former member of the U.S. Coast Guard, opened Barebones Auto Repair in 2011. The goal was, and always will be, to offer customers quality service at a reasonable price. He and his wife, Jaime, expanded their business by becoming Alta Mere/Smartview franchisees in 2016 after cultivating a loyal customer base, and they continue to see success. Jaime, who earned her B.A. in Journalism from Texas Christian University and her M.A. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Louisville, play ... read more

With the sun setting earlier in the last few weeks after the end of daylight saving time, most commuters are driving home at dusk or even in total darkness each evening. To stay safe in the darkness, it’s important to take time for necessary safety precautions. That means properly maintaining your headlights to keep you, your passengers and other drivers safe on the roads. Clear, Bright Headlights Make a Difference Headlights are obviously a necessary component of your car, and it’s important to keep them in top working condition for many reasons. Properly adjusted and cared-for headlights can literally make the difference between life and death. Headlights allow you to see road markings, signs and unexpected obstacles. Over time, headlights inevitably get covered in grime, and the bulbs dim and burn out. Bright, clear headlights will give you the advantage of an extra second ... read more