Alternative Transportation
With gas prices rising and no end in sight, it might be a good time to consider alternative means of transportation. There are, of course, the good old stand bys, walking, biking, and the bus; and there is, once again, discussion of a rail system in Southeast Michigan. Personally, I think we need to be a bit more imaginative, and consider still other ways to get around. For example, I think we should examine the practicability of bringing back the dog sled. The dog sled was in use in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan well into the 20th Century, and in some places may still be in use.
Now just sit back for aminute and think about it, as this is not as far fetched as it may seem. Think how nice it will be to wake up in the morning to the sound of cheerful barking dogs pulling sleds and people down the street. A dog team pulling a sled is a year round means of transportation; just replace the runners with wheels, and the sled is ready for the summer. A sled can carry a heavy load, depending on how many dogs are in the team. A person or two can ride on the sled, and only need to run behind the sled to keep from freezing to death.
There are a few problems that will need to be addressed, of course, such as the care and feeding of all of the dogs. Then there is the question of what to do with the wast product. Still, these questions can be dealt with in due course.
So let us consider the return of the dog team, as an alternative means of transportation. Then try and come up with a better idea. Have fun.
posted by James @ 11:01 AM
6 Comments:
Your idea is unfeasible. What exactly should I do to house 9 dogs at my workplace while I am at work? Also, dogs are less controllable than cars; by what route would you have me steer them to my workplace in AA? In addition, I note that you drive a car and do not bother to avail yourself of alternative forms of transportation such as the bike you own, or the bus. So your recommendations are, in a word, worthless tripe.
I remember from my Irish literature course that WB Yeats believed he could communicate telepathically with Lady Gregory over many miles.
I'm only jesting in part when I say that this would be an ideal means of communication that would alleviate transportation needs.
If employers would loosen their bonds on their working legions, more people could work from home. Unfortunately, I believe the ingrained urge to stand over workers with a big stick disallows such industrious work.
I know some would not want to work from home, but enough of us exist—who think sitting in a robe, surrounded by one's own things and quietude is the very definition of serene productivity—that the gas shortage would be lessened and the roads would be freer.
Dear Teaspout,
I think you are right, if moe of us worked from home, which computers can allow us to do, we will need to travel less and free up the roads. Still, I fear you are right about the need of the boss to stand behind everyone with a big stick and force everone to obey. Personnal needs such as that keep the world from becomeing a better place.
Have you ever had someone come up to you and personally hand you a tin box full of 19th cetnury documents?
Deeds, letters (Care of Ypsilanti Farm Store), photos, probate judgements, lists of property from 1856. Ypsilanti High, Stone School Dilplomas, 4th of July on the porch, wedding on the west side, momma and baby sitting by the stoves.
I need to know more about the Reads. Fuller. And Campbells.
Dear Anonumous,
No, I ahve never had anyone come up to me and hand me a box of 19 th century documents. What you have sounds interesting, and I hope you will keep us informed on how this develops. To try and find out more about the people named in the documents, first try the Ypsilanti City Archives. The Archives are located in the building behind the museum on Huron Street. Look up the names in the bilo files, and in the obituary card file. Then you can go to the old newspapers, these are on microfile at the library at Eastern and the Ypsilanti library, to find the published obitoury. Then tell us what you find.
James
There was a time when communities would seek counsel from the elders. More experience usually translated into lessons learned. Having picked up a pearl of wisdom here and there over the years, I am now able to share a thought or two. The main lesson is to never stop learning. Seeking other points of view and new ideas like visiting your blog are steps in the right direction. Finding what is ultimately important leads one to appreciate actuality, efficiency and mindfulness. Helping others to see some of the forest through the trees is its own reward. synergistic lifestyle
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