Here is a short story I wanted to relate. It is one of those amusing little incidents that always seems to happen when I'm out rambling around in my Jalopy. It entails a little Car Club History and a modern day application of it.

Years ago, many Car Clubs were trying to off-set the negative public image of Hot Rods and Car Clubs. Too many Hooligans and Street Racers were giving the Hot Rodders a bad name. Anyone in a fenderless Ford or a Roadster with loud exhaust were recieving consternation from the public at large and oftentimes zealous over enforcement from the local Police. Hot Rodders were viewed as a Menace, Criminals or Delinquents.

In an effort to counter a poor stereotype, Car Clubs would enact by-laws requiring members to lend assistance to motorists any way they could. Members were to aid in fixing flats, give directions to lost motorists, render first aid at crash scenes and bring fuel to the out-of-gas. Even Car Shows of the day required each vehicle to carry tools and emergency equipment in order to help others. The tool kit would be judged just as the rest of the vehicle, and points would be deducted if the kit did not have the minimum required items.

While I am just a junior member and have no authority to speak on behalf of the Good-Guys Organization, it is my belief that the selection of the "Good-Guys" name may well be a nod to the ideals of helping other motorists embodied into this present Club.

Well... That is the background... Here is my story:

Earlier this Summer, I wheeled into a neighborhood gas station to fill-up my Model "T" Jalopy. I pre-paid and was topping off when a Guy exited the Gas Station Convenience Store. He was carrying a just purchased pair of jumper cables and was talking on his cell phone as he walked past me. He never took his eyes off my old car. I could over hear what he was saying... "Wow! You should see this old car! Yes, I'll be there as quick as I can... I'm walking to you now". It was obvious, the Guy and his Gal were stranded with a dead battery.

I called over to him and offered him a ride and a jump start. He giggled like a little girl all the way to where his import was dead along the roadway. He was having a "Hoot" riding in the old Jalopy. I got him going no problem. His Girlfriend wanted us to pose for photos in front of the old Jalopy that came to rescue them. As I shook his hand and turned to go, the Guy tried to give me a $20. I refused to take it. The Guy insisted on paying me for the gas I used helping him. I refused again saying that I had driven less than a mile out of my way. The Guy replied "It was worth $20 Dollars just to ride in that old car"! Again I refused his money, but, I did accept what I felt was the best compliment I had ever recieved about my old car. I was just literally trying to be a "Good-Guy". Sometimes it is very rewarding to lend a hand!

That is my story. I'm sure I am not alone. I bet we could make a huge thread if everyone would share their story of how they were being a "Good-Guy". What is your story?

Good on you 2$Bill!! Sounds like just an excuse to drive the rod a couple of extra miles!! You can bet after that guy had a ride in a rod he was thinking "why am I driving this import"....and another rodder is born!!

All the points about helping others should be an unwritten code (maybe a written code) that all rodders should take part in because if you "drive'em" you might be in the same position one day. What goes around comes around.

God Bless Gramps! Thanks!

Thanks for a great story, and the reminder about helping our fellow motorist's in a positive way!

Love it!!!!!!!

Thumbs up!

Great job.

I keep a bunch of tools and spare parts in my hot rod. I try to stop and help every chance I get. I keep hoping that if I keep stoping to help others that it wont be me on the side of the road next time.