[Rhodes22-list] Bob Skinner's Car, Elle's buttons

[Robert Skinner]

Ed - 

You obviously mistake me for one of your pseudo-conservative 
reactionaries.  Actually, I have rarely spoken a word in 
favor of labor unions, and then only when they were the last 
alternative to complete subjugation by rich men lacking even 
the vestiges of ethical consciousness.

Throughout my life, I have resisted joining unions (labor & 
teaching) where I have been employed, as they have never 
provided me any tangible benefit.  As long as seniority 
rather than competence is the primary basis of respect 
within a union, it will get along without my support.

As to the origins of the autos, many Toyotas are made in the 
USA, and the components of many "US-made" autos are 
manufactured abroad.  The "Built In The USA" title is a bit 
muddy in the current world economy.  However, until the US 
auto manufacturers (some owned by foreign companies) come up 
with something like the European Smart car or improve on the 
hybrid concept, I'll put my money where it most directly 
benefits me.

As to the effect of buying goods NOT made in the USA, I 
believe that we have not adequately considered the social 
consequences of destroying our manufacturing capability and 
the adverse economic effect of our negative balance of 
international trade.  But the "free trade" movement needs a 
counterbalance that is absent today.  

Import duties may be necessary to mitigate social and 
economic consequences of the apparent contraction of the 
world due to communication and transportation developments.

As to a towing, it was not stated as a requirement, just a 
nice idea, but honestly not likely in a frameless body.

I have driven the Blue Ridge Parkway many times in cars 
and motorcycles, and regard it as one of our national 
jewels.  Please enjoy it for me until the next time I can 
experience it for myself.

/Robert

Tootle wrote:
> 
>  Bob,
> 
> As a known Democrat, how can you consider any car not made by your labor
> union brothers?  That leaves only the Ford Focus.
> 
> By chance, I have a '05 Ford Focus.  It is an o.k. car.  It meets many of
> your requirements.  Trunk is roomy.  But the towing requirement I question.
> It is only a little 4 cylinder motor and when I go to the North Carolina
> Mountains, such as yesterday, it is definitely underpowered going up N. C.
> Hwy 215.  You need to test drive any car you buy going from Rosman, NC to
> the Blueridge Parkway.
> 
> Attached is a picture from Mt Hardy (6110') looking at the Devil's
> Courthouse just off Blue Ridge Parkway.  That gray line between the Court
> House and the mountain just to north is the Parkway.  Come on down home
> rather than go to foreign lands.