The Jaguar X-type, as an idea, sounded great. Classic styling meets modern efficiency and AWD. Seemed like a real A4, C-class & 3 series competitor. Who's with me?

And they still are. I've got a '71 Townsman and it's the best way to make new acquaintances. I can't fill the tank without the car sparking a conversation.

BTW, my tailgate's been frozen - fortunately in the up position - for years. Maybe you can come over and help while I work the keys.

The plane is made of coke.

If nothing else came of Horowitz's lighted pot, at least it finally justified its assessment of the kettle.

I know what you mean. Being three hours north of the Coast in Jackson, Katrina's effects amounted to a major inconvenience, an extra expense and a sprinkling of adventure. Like a lot of people here, I tried to keep perspective, given so many people on the Coast & in NOLA died and many more faced prolonged mental, physical and property damage. Living and reporting through it, though, proved the most eye-opening event for me in terms of function/dysfunction of American society.

The week following Hurricane Katrina brought 90+ temps with sticky humidity, widespread power outages, gas shortages and very limited cell service. Most nights, we drank hot beer in the blackness.

So I'm not crazy in thinking that meth-fed tea kettle turned me on.

Stick? Oh. Sorry, I must have the wrong stall. I was looking for AutoShit.