The papers in town have lapped up this story, so we're doing it too. The difference is that we are using it solely as a vehicle to deliver a more accurate graphic.

Perpetually vigilant Watch-man spammed Wash DOT today with a stern email, informing them that the ill-conceived and clearly failed HOV system's days are numbered. State transportation secretary Paula Hammond stated DOT received "15 or 16 copies." There was no word on how many LOLs and k thx bais those emails included.

This week, Eyman...is already making plans for what he calls a "Freedom Drive" on Dec. 4, in which solo drivers would travel in lanes that have been restricted to car pools and buses on Interstates 5, 90, and 405. He plans to lead the convoy in his pickup truck, which would carry a sign saying. "Drive in this lane. You paid for it. It's the law." [seattletimes]

...because, holy fucking crap in a bento box, the current HOV restrictions are so-o-o-o damn restrictive in a region where evening rush hour begins at 12:30 p.m. Also, how dare those selfish buses take up the lanes all for themselves! And wasting that measly one percent for art to beautify otherwise Stalinist grey infrastructure! No wonder Mr. Eyman has been having trouble these last few nights masturbating vigorously over newer and newer ways to de-fund basic civil services.

No matter, we've swallowed the Watch-man's Kool-Aid and we're already thinking of applying his sensible "you paid for it; use it" philosophy elsewhere: those firefighters sit around idling too much, for example, we should drill their preparedness by randomly pulling fire alarms (preferably in Mukilteo).

Meanwhile, for December 4th, Mr. Eyman, we suggest walking down the HOV lane instead. It's more photogenic...and it'll be a lot faster than driving.