Looks as if it's time to purchase a new (to me) car because the repairs that the car needs are more than twice its value. I want to spend no more than $15K -- and less if possible. (I know, I know. I'm way too cheap.)

I will, of course, be poring over my latest Consumer Reports car buying guide but I'm also soliciting suggestions. My priorities:

1-5. Reliable: I'm serious. No garage bunnies need apply.

6. Fuel efficient: I'm currently averaging 30mpg and I do not want to lose ground.

7. Manual transmission: Better gas mileage, less expensive transmission repairs, more fun to drive. I only list this because I know there a few models that don't come in manual.

8. Reasonably peppy: I know, this is in contrast to #6 but I do have to get onto Houston freeways. My current ride is a 12 year old Mazda 626 and I've been very happy with its acceleration.

9. Addendum: If I go for a used vehicle (almost certain given that I don't want to spend much), is it worth it to pay a little more for a "certified" car or is that an expensive marketing ploy worth only the paper it's written on due to exceptions and other weasly words?

I would prefer a sedan type car but I'm open to other shapes that meet the above. Anyone love their car? Hate it? Any and all advice will be gratefully received.

The article by Joel "Cassandra" Bourne, Jr. that describes what happened in New Orleans during the past week.

Sounds all too familiar, no?

Only it was prescient in that it was published in October 2004. I remember reading the article and thinking that it sounded scary and, perhaps, a bit alarmist. Little did we know...

Perhaps we should take up a collection to buy FEMA and the White House subscriptions to National Geographic?