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Money For Nothing

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Eric,

Glad to help out.

What was your first car? A 1970 Mercury Montego. It was my grandfather’s and he passed it on to me after his health got such that he couldn’t drive anymore.

Any significant memories w/that car? I was pulling up to a turn lane at a busy intersection with two of my friends in the car shortly after I got it. The brake fluid was apparently so old and hadn’t been refreshed for years. When I started to brake, the car didn’t stop. I pumped the brake which snapped something and the car started to spin. We did about 720 degrees in the middle of an intersection with cars whizzing by us on either side, ended up back-first in a ditch along side the road and never got a scratch on the car. We got out, one of the friends said, “That was so freakin’ cool.” I punched him harder than I’d ever hit anyone.

What’s parked in your driveway now? A 1998 Nissan Altima. It’s got 140,000 plus miles on it and (knock on wood) still runs like a charm.

Does your car reflect your personality? A little. It’s practical, never wears out, is somewhat stylish but not flashy and I’m sure you could theoretically pour a lot of bourbon in it. Heh.

Favorite vehicle(s)? I’ve always enjoyed driving luxury sporty sedans. The two-seater, convertible BMW is cool. I can’t afford a vehicle that unreliable in terms of maintenance, though.

Favorite vehicle…if money were no object? I’d love to have a Toyota Tundra, extended cab with all the bells and whistles. But, with respect to the environment and my gas budget, that ain’t happening.

Vanity Plates? I like them. Had one once when I worked at a college. I’ve always wanted “Falls” since that’s what most people call me, but it’s always taken. One day I’ll find that person and bribe them appropriately.

Must have car gadget? Hands free speaker phone. I can’t stand fidgeting with stuff while I’m driving. Either that or an assortment of “I’m and idiot” car magnets to throw at people who can’t merge.

Favorite driving tunes? When I was about 13, a friend’s older brother took him and me cruising. I grew up in Eastern Kentucky where the two-lane roads wind through the hollers (and that’s the way we spell it, not “hollows”). If you leave the road on one side, you’re in the side of the mountain, the other side, you’re in the creek. The guy driving tried to scare us by going about 90 through a stretch of road where the maximum safe speed is about 35. “Money for Nothing,” by Dire Straights was playing. Now when it comes on, I give it a little more gas.

Favorite Hollywood movie car? The blue Mercedes with gold trim Patrick Swayze drove in “Roadhouse.” Don’t know why. Not a Mercedes fan. Just always liked that car in that movie for some reason.