Stohlman VW and Nova Dub Member in Need - Stay Strong Harry Vannie

(Stohlman VW's Harry Vannie and his wife, Kris)

We have sad news this week from Stohlman VW. One of our Certified VW Sales Consultants, Harry Vannie has fallen ill and is currently in critical condition at Georgetown University Medical Center. After what was thought to be just symptoms of a cold that was going around, Harry sought out treatment at Inova Loudoun Hospital early last week after encouragement from his wife, Kris. Unfortunately, his diagnosis turned out to be more serious than a little cold. He was helicoptered to Geogetown University Medical Center’s Critical Care Center, where his family was informed that Harry had developed a severe infection that led to Sepsis. Sepsis is a potential life threatening complication from an infection. Sepsis occurs when chemicals released into the bloodstream to fight the infection causes inflammation throughout the system. In Harry’s case, his sepsis led to septic shock, triggering multiple organ failure. He is currently fighting for his life in a medically induced coma and life support. 

(Harry's family with his 2013 Golf R - Photo by Alles Gute)

Harry was born in Liberia, a country in West Africa. At home, Harry and his wife Kris, have two beautiful daughters. Before joining Stohlman, he had over 14 years of experience in the automotive industry. A very knowledgable VW Product Specialist and true enthusiast, Stohlman was thrilled when Harry decided to join the the VW team in Tyson’s this year. Harry and his wife are also active members of the Nova Dubs community. He currently drives a beautiful 2013 Tornado Red Golf R. Red was a very limited color produced for the MK6 R, so if you ever saw a red R around Northern Virginia, you could bet it was Harry cruising. Before falling ill, Harry was looking forward to attending H20i with his wife in Ocean City, Maryland, which took place this past weekend. His wife Kris, drives a CC R-Line.

(Harry's 2013 Golf R - Photo by Alles Gute)

With Harry being in a coma, the bills at the hospital and at home are stacking up. In the car business, paid sick days don’t really exist. Ryan Berg, a member of the Nova Dubs community, was generous enough to set up a GoFundMe for Harry and his family. All donations go straight to his wife Kris, to help pay for living expenses and hospital care. Kris has been spending day and night next to Harry, praying for a speedy recovery. Please help us show support for Harry and his family. Because of his current condition, he cannot receive fresh flowers or fruit, so please consider donating to Harry’s GoFundMe instead. Every dollar counts and is appreciated. We’re praying for you Harry, and cannot wait for you to return to Stohlman VW, healthy and happy. 

To Donate for Harry and his family - http://www.gofundme.com/harryvannie

Follow us @stohlmanauto. Until next time.

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5

Rallycross to Classic - Scott Speed Still in the Hunt and Special Edition Beetle Released

(Scott Speed and #77 7UP VW Polo GRC. Photo by VWoA)

It was a big week for our iconic Beetle. The Volkswagen Andretti RallyCross team made some big moves in Los Angeles this past weekend. Both Scott Speed and Tanner Foust had an eventful weekend in the city of Angels, with Speed securing his third win for the Red Bull Global Rallycross Championship during Saturday’s race. Speed experienced engine problems while driving the #77 7Up Volkswagen Polo GRC during the semi finals on Sunday, finishing 6th for the day. He is currently overall third for the series, hoping to gain points in Seattle this weekend to catch up to current leader, Ken Block.

After months and months of teasing, Tanner Foust and Volkswagen Andretti Racing finally debuted the #24 Rockstar Volkswagen Beetle GRC in LA. With the 544 horsepower GRC Beetle, Foust qualified for Saturday’s final by winning the Last Chance Qualifier race despite also suffering from engine problems over the weekend. “The Beetle is fast off the line and very efficient in the corners, and the steering is so quick and direct that it's very easy to drive. The work we are putting into the Beetle is going to make it super competitive in 2015.” said Foust. He’s currently tenth overall in the championship standings, and hoping to widen the gap between him and Rhys Millen this weekend in Seattle. 

(Tanner Foust and #24 Rockstar VW Beetle GRC. Photo by VWoA)

Volkswagen Rallycross Seattle will take place this weekend, September 26-27. NBC will air Sunday’s race, the 28th at 4:30 pm ET.

(Photo by VWoA)

Also to debut this week was the limited edition Volkswagen Beetle Classic model. This new model adds features to enhance the extensive standard equipment already found on the Beetle. The most unique of the new features is a two-toned brown “Sioux” leatherette and checked cloth seating surfaces. These beautiful new seats truly give the car a “classic” look, definitely paying homage to the original with a modern spin. The Classic trim will also include:

• 17-inch “Heritage” aluminum-alloy wheels
• Rear spoiler
• Leather-wrapped shifter knob and handbrake lever
• Sirius XM® Satellite Radio
• RNS® 315 navigation system
• Multifunction steering wheel
• Comfort front seats with driver’s side lumbar support
• Six-Speed automatic transmission

 The Beetle Classic model is scheduled to go on sale this week starting at $20,195 for the 1.8T Coupe. The 1.8L turbocharged and direct-injection TSI four-cylinder engine produces 170 horsepower and 177 lb/ft of torque, with an estimated highway fuel economy of 33 mpg. This special edition will only be available in three colors - Pure White, Black Uni, and Reflex Silver. And for those who prefer a drop top, have no fear. With a starting price at $25,995, the Beetle Convertible Classic will go on sale early 2015, just in time for Spring. 

(Photo by VWoA)

Let us know if you’ll be watching Team Volkswagen Andretti race in Seattle this weekend, and what you think of the new Special Edition Beetle Classic @stohlmanauto. Until next time!

Esther Cho

VW Product Specialist

@esther_ch5