Fresno Bee: Pawnshops full of people trying to get gas money

[Newsjock]

http://fresnobee.com/local/story/12225535p-12966212c.html

... Ancient Ibarra pawned a 14-karat gold bracelet. He needed gas money to get to work.

With gas prices hovering just below record highs as many families prepare for out-of-town Memorial Day weekend trips, drivers are searching for ways to save money.

... High gas prices are part of the reason the Fresno Hock Shoppe on Belmont Avenue is packed with gold rings, guitars and weed whackers.

"It seems like every third person" is pawning or selling an item because they need gas money, said manager Rob Van Gronigen.

Ibarra, of Fresno, got a $100 loan for his gold bracelet.

"You got to get across town for work," he said. "You can't move without gas."

more

[Jed Dilligan]

1. Not really news...

People in Fresno are hocking things to pay for necessities in the best of times. Big Ag, it's medieval times down there.

[maxsolomon]

2. like burning furniture for heat

nice to see that cheney energy policy really kicking in.

also: "Ancient" Ibarra?

[greekspeak]

3. AmeriKKKan Feudalism

All in good time my pretties...all in good time. Eventually people will be selling the clothes off their back for morsels at the back door of the homes of the rich.