The Bittersweet Legacy of the Iconic Trio: Clarkson, Hammond, and May

As a self-proclaimed car enthusiast or not, the recent announcement of the end of the iconic British television show, The Grand Tour, has undoubtedly left a bittersweet taste in the mouths of many viewers. For over two decades, the dynamic trio of Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May have captivated audiences with their unique and often controversial take on the automotive industry, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of television.

Farewell to the Automotive Adventurers

The Rise and Reign of the Automotive Trio

Since 2002, Clarkson, Hammond, and May have been a constant presence on our television screens, first with the BBC's Top Gear and then with their Amazon Prime venture, The Grand Tour. Their shows have consistently provided a boisterous, chaotic, and often absurd exploration of the car industry, captivating audiences with their larger-than-life personalities and outrageous antics. For a generation of British men born in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the trio's television exploits were a must-watch, with their Sunday evening shows becoming a ritual for many.

Controversy and Criticism: The Divisive Legacy

While the trio's on-screen antics have undoubtedly entertained and delighted many, their conduct has also been the subject of much controversy and criticism. From accusations of xenophobic and homophobic remarks to physical altercations, the presenters have often found themselves at the center of media scrutiny. Jeremy Clarkson, in particular, has been a deeply divisive figure, with his dismissal from the BBC in 2015 and more recent comments deemed sexist by the press watchdog.

Exploring the World, One Adventure at a Time

Despite the controversies, Top Gear and The Grand Tour have also been praised for their ability to showcase the beauty and wonder of nations around the world. Through their numerous specials, the trio have taken viewers on challenging and often inhospitable journeys, from the Mississippi to Mongolia, and from Mauritania to Myanmar. While still fueled by their signature laddish hijinks, these episodes have provided a unique and informative perspective on the cultures and issues faced by these nations, often reflecting on topics such as road safety and the legacy of conflict.

The Lasting Impact of the Automotive Trio

As the curtain falls on the trio's television exploits, their legacy remains a complex and multifaceted one. While they have faced justified criticism for their past actions, Clarkson, Hammond, and May have also left an indelible mark on the world of television, captivating audiences with their unique brand of automotive-themed entertainment. For many, the opportunity to revisit their classic episodes will be a bittersweet experience, a nostalgic reminder of a bygone era in British television history.

Crafting a Festive Tradition: The Greater Tri-Town Area Historical Society's Annual Craft Show

The Greater Tri-Town Area Historical Society is once again hosting its annual craft show, providing a perfect opportunity for holiday shoppers to discover unique and handcrafted treasures for the fall and Christmas seasons. This much-anticipated event has become a beloved tradition in the local community, offering a diverse array of artisanal goods and a chance to support local artisans.

Discover the Charm of Handcrafted Delights

A Celebration of Local Artistry

The Greater Tri-Town Area Historical Society's annual craft show is a testament to the vibrant creative community that thrives in the region. This event serves as a platform for local artisans to showcase their exceptional skills and share their passion for craftsmanship with the community. From intricate woodwork to delicate textiles, the show boasts a diverse range of handmade products that reflect the unique talents and artistic visions of the participating vendors.One of the highlights of the craft show is the opportunity to engage directly with the artisans themselves. Visitors can learn about the creative process, the inspiration behind each piece, and the dedication that goes into every handcrafted item. This personal connection fosters a deeper appreciation for the art and allows attendees to truly understand the stories behind the products they purchase.

A Treasure Trove of Holiday Gifts

As the holiday season approaches, the craft show provides a unique and meaningful shopping experience for those seeking one-of-a-kind gifts. The carefully curated selection of handmade items, ranging from festive home decor to artisanal food products, offers an alternative to mass-produced goods. Shoppers can discover thoughtful and personalized presents that reflect the recipient's individual style and interests, making the gift-giving experience all the more special.The craft show's timing, just before the fall and Christmas seasons, is particularly advantageous for those looking to get a head start on their holiday shopping. Attendees can browse a diverse array of handcrafted items, from cozy knitted scarves to intricate ornaments, and find the perfect gifts for their loved ones. By supporting local artisans, shoppers can also contribute to the vibrant creative economy of the Greater Tri-Town Area.

A Celebration of Community and Tradition

The annual craft show hosted by the Greater Tri-Town Area Historical Society is more than just a shopping event; it is a celebration of community and tradition. The event brings together local residents, visitors, and artisans, fostering a sense of unity and shared appreciation for the region's rich cultural heritage.For many in the community, the craft show has become a cherished annual tradition, a time to reconnect with friends, discover new local talents, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. The event serves as a gathering place where people can come together, share stories, and support the local creative community.By hosting this event, the Greater Tri-Town Area Historical Society not only preserves the area's artistic legacy but also nurtures the growth and development of the local creative economy. The craft show provides a platform for artisans to showcase their work, connect with potential customers, and build lasting relationships within the community.

Uncovering the Forgotten Gem: The Pontiac Can Am

The Pontiac Can Am, a short-lived model produced in 1977, has long been overshadowed by the more popular muscle cars of the era. However, this forgotten gem is now gaining attention as a rare and intriguing find at classic car shows and auctions. With its unique styling and powerful engine, the Can Am offers a glimpse into the Malaise Era of the automotive industry.

Rediscovering a Rare Muscle Car Treasure

A Chance Encounter at a Cars and Coffee Event

Recently, a pristine example of the Pontiac Can Am was spotted at a local cars and coffee event by YouTube's "The GALAXIE Marauder." The car, in immaculate condition with its original paint and Can Am-specific stripes, immediately caught the attention of the enthusiast. However, upon closer inspection, something rather unusual was discovered – this particular Can Am was equipped with a four-speed manual transmission, a rarity among these models.

Exploring the Unusual Transmission Swap

Typically, all Can Am models were produced with three-speed automatic transmissions, making this four-speed manual-equipped example a true anomaly. While it's possible that Pontiac may have produced a single prototype with a manual gearbox, it's more likely that this is an aftermarket conversion carried out by a diehard gearhead seeking to enhance the driving experience.

Uncovering Similar Modifications

Further research revealed that this isn't the only Can Am to have undergone a transmission swap. A Hemmings article showcases another example that had its original Turbo 400 automatic replaced with a Borg-Warner T-10 manual transmission. This particular car features a red interior, distinguishing it from the one seen in the video.

The Pontiac Can Am: A Forgotten Muscle Car Revival

The Pontiac Can Am was the brainchild of Jim Wangers, Pontiac's chief marketing manager at the time. Wangers, the man responsible for creating the iconic GTO, believed that the Can Am would revive the spirit of the muscle car, which had been discontinued in 1974. Named after the renowned Canadian-American (Can-Am) racing series, the Can Am was based on the LeMans Sport Coupe, but with several distinctive features.

Unique Styling and Performance

The Can Am featured the Trans Am's shaker hood scoop and a ducktail rear spoiler sourced from the Grand Am All-American show car. All models were painted white and adorned with tri-tone stripes in orange, yellow, and gold, along with "Can Am" decals on the front fenders and trunk lid, creating a distinctive 1970s-inspired visual package.Under the hood, the Can Am was powered by Pontiac's W72-series V8 engine, a 400-cubic-inch (6.6-liter) unit that delivered 200 horsepower – a 10% increase over the LeMans Sport Coupe. While high-performance engines were a rarity in 1977, the Can Am's power output was still respectable, with only the Corvette offering more than 200 horses at the time.

The Unfortunate Demise of the Can Am

The Can Am's production run was short-lived, coming to a halt when the mold used to produce the fiberglass rear spoiler broke. Pontiac executives, concerned that the Can Am was eating into Grand Prix sales, voted against investing in a new mold. Most sources agree that only 1,377 units were built over a six-month period, while Jim Wangers himself claimed the production figure was even lower, at 1,133 examples.

Rediscovering a Forgotten Gem

As the years have passed, the Pontiac Can Am has become a rare and sought-after classic car. With its unique styling, powerful engine, and the occasional unexpected modifications like the four-speed manual transmission, these forgotten gems are now being rediscovered and celebrated by enthusiasts who appreciate the spirit of the Malaise Era muscle car.