Wasteland

I was watching a show on the Speed Channel this weekend that was talking about the lost future industry from the recent "Cash for Clunkers" fiasco. Many of today's clunkers could be the future rebuilds sold at Barrett-Jackson. Think of the body shops, reupholsterers, painters, parts sales, etc. that go into these thriving businesses. In our eco-concious, politically correct, crush it / melt it down world there may not be room for that type of industry in the future. Imagine some of the beautiful cars that aren't messed with today because of their poor fuel economy... Now imagine the not to distant application of solar energy, long range, high power electric motors being dropped into those beautiful, rebuilt bodies. I am just saying that there are far reaching effects of decisions that many people don't even think of (especially our government ruling class).

There is a new Eco-documentary coming out soon that will help people view these things as well as social and economic impacts of the wastefulness of our worldwide society. Check out this link, it may be something we should slowdown and ponder... Wasteland

A Study in Sad Contrast

My wife has an Uncle that lives in the mountains of North Georgia. Near his home is a small isolated junkyard with many old vehicles in various stages of decay, most with trees growing through the windows. Even as rusted and dying hulks you can still see the beauty of their design and elements of the glory they surely had in their day. Somehow it is hard to see an old car in the junkyard and not imagine what it's life must have been like. Who owned it? How long did it roam the roads, and where? What was the final nail in it's carburated coffin? Then, finally, how did it end up here... deep in the woods? Were these even woods back when it reached this final resting spot, or was this a field next to a home now long gone?

My children love to make up the stories and role play in their minds as if it was again that day and a cherished piece of the family has slowly rolled it's last. It is sad to see them go. I think that is one of the reasons old cars in great shape seem to universally bring happiness at car shows. Surely if this car can make it through there might even be hope for my longevity...

junkyard classic car