Revving Up Style: Audi R8 Showcasing its Shine at Sham's Oasis

In the near future where analog gasoline vehicles are close to extinction, what initially appeared as a mirage turned out to be a breathtaking oasis. Nestled before our weary eyes stood a relic of the 1930s, a vintage gas station, beckoning travelers to replenish both their gasoline vehicles and spirits as they ventured forth on their journeys...

Two intrepid travelers, weary from their journey along Highway 99 towards Fresno, soon discovered that their car was caked in dirt, dust, grime and running low on fuel. Their parched throats begged for respite after a arduous Rally Drive through the Mojave Desert, and so the passenger reached for their 21st-century smartphone, seeking salvation in the form of the nearest gas station.

With a few taps and swipes, the device dutifully routed them through the digital labyrinth. Their destination: Rio Grande in downtown Fresno. Following its precise directions, they veered onto the 41, turned onto Van Ness Ave, and then wound their way onto Los Angeles St.

As they neared the juncture with Fulton St, their eyes met a seemingly desolate, brown and off-white gas station, devoid of most signs of life or commerce. A silent exchange of puzzled glances took place within the car before both occupants fixed their gaze on the open gates. A mutual decision was made, and they proceeded up the driveway toward the apparition-like gas pumps.

A rush of vivid red and white hues painted the gas station, and the airwaves resonated with vintage 1930s melodies from the car's radio station. It was like they've time traveled back into the 1930s. The driver, stealing a glance over his left shoulder, was met with the sight of an expansive mural that bore the words, "Sham's Oasis Rio Grande."

Guided by this enchanting oasis, they continued their approach towards the pumps. Just as they did, a voice from the smartphone chimed in, "You have arrived at your destination."

As the car rolled to a stop, a quick and attentive gas station attendant sprang into action, taking charge of fueling the vehicle. With a sense of anticipation, the driver exited the car and stepped into the old-fashioned gas station. Inside, he picked up a few towels and selecting two ice-cold colas, one for himself and another for his trusted shotgun rider. Stepping out of the building, they hurriedly approached the frunk of the car, reaching for a bottle of "X Square AD Waterless Wash & Wax." With a sense of urgency, him and his passenger commenced the task of washing the vehicle, the spray and wipe method allowing them to swiftly restore its luster. As the two finished, so did the attendant.

As they stowed away their cleaning supplies and made their way back to the vehicle, their eyes were drawn to the gas attendant. The attendant stated that he will add the items and fuel onto his tab. The driver looking confused, slides into the cockpit of the vehicle. With an effortless and nonchalant wave, the attendant bid them farewell, a silent acknowledgment of their visit to the mysterious and timeless oasis.

As the driver hand gripped the leather and suede steering wheel, the distinct scent of high-octane gasoline began to infiltrate the air, sending a thrilling jolt of adrenaline coursing through his veins. Turning the key, the V10 engine roared to life, and with newfound energy, the driver pulled away onto Fulton Street, leaving behind the quaint oasis of nostalgia. The driver peeked one last time into the rear view mirror and saw what looked like a desolate, brown and off-white gas station behind them.

At the end of that month, the driver was pleasantly surprised to find an envelope waiting for him in the mail. What immediately captured his attention was a vintage "Massachusetts Bay 2 cent" postage stamp, an unexpected relic from the past. As he examined the sender's name, "Sham's Oasis Rio Grande," his curiosity piqued, and he couldn't help but wonder what might be contained within this intriguing piece of correspondence. With a mix of anticipation and curiosity, he opened the envelope. Inside, he found a bill detailing the charges for the cost of three towels and the refueling of his car, amounting to 21 gallons of fuel.

Please follow and support Mark Baskin, the owner of Sham's Oasis on IG @shamsoasis and consider visiting this concealed gem in the downtown area.

Wash. Wax. Drive. Repeat.