The Coolest Car on the Planet

Let's address the two main questions first. Whenever and wherever I go in my little "jeep", everybody loves it, and very few have ever seen one before. So, I frequently get stopped by people (including police officers), who ask me the same two questions:

1. What is it? and...


2. Where can I get one?

What it is... is an Austin Mini Moke, the most unusual variant of the old "classic" Mini from the 60's. It is about 4 1/2 feet wide and 10 feet long, has a 4 cylinder 1 liter engine, 4 speed transmission, gets 42 MPG and the book says top speed is 81 MPH.

The Moke was designed in the late 50's, to be a replacement utility vehicle for the British Army. The British Army chose not to purchase Mini Mokes, and a very limited number were produced between 1963 and 1993. They were never "cheap", and still aren't.

Where can you get one? You might find one on eBay, or I can connect you with sources.

Anyway I got my little Mini Moke out of it's garage just before Independence Day, and found that it needed new rear wheel bearings. My parts supplier had them in my hands two days later.

With the new bearings installed, a short test ride followed. Within three miles, I discovered that it was also time to install a new exhaust system. In the photo above, the old exhaust system has been removed and the new one should be installed before the weekend.

If you see me out cruising around Oriental, give me a shout.

Gift Idea for Someone Who Has Everything!

Among my messages this morning was one from Adam Savage (Mythbusters) informing me about a One Armed Clock! The very idea was so wild that I had to look. This is an awesome piece of artwork.

More information, photos and a short video can be found at: http://bit.ly/acGSp.

History of the Flag

While Americans recognize and celebrate collective achievements such as the writing of the Declaration of Independence, victory in the Revolutionary War, or the landing of a man on the Moon — it is individual accomplishment that is cherished the most. The "stars" of the aforementioned events — Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Neil Armstrong — outshine the collective constellation. One person's contribution can define the course and meaning of history.

When we view the flag, we think of liberty, freedom, pride, and Betsy Ross. The American flag flies on the moon, sits atop Mount Everest, is hurtling out in space. The flag is how America signs her name.

It is no surprise that Betsy Ross has become one of the most cherished figures of American History.

Find out more at the Betsy Ross Home Page - http://www.ushistory.org/betsy/