Wow. More cost efficient, huh?

Now, I didn’t go to MIT – I went to a school that has a giant orange for a mascot – but even I know that the headline of this post (see above!) is a big “Duh”.

You see (she said patiently), take-offs and landings use up lots of fuel – so of course direct flights are more “efficient”.

Sheesh. I’ll bet even Harvard students know this.

And you thought it was just the airlines, didn’t you?

According to the always delightful “The Smoking Gun” website, an Indiana drug dealer sold cocaine to an undercover cop, and charged accordingly:

• One ounce of cocaine, $215
• Fuel Surcharge, $25

He was charged last week with two felonies for dealing – no word yet on whether or not he’ll also be indicted for gas-gouging.

From the crime blotter: Cops in Holly Springs, Georgia are Thieves.

Well, idea thieves, anyway.

They recently stole an idea from the airlines – the fuel surcharge! Beginning July 1, Holly Springs finest will add a $12 surcharge to all moving violations (no, not $350).

Saw the story in USA Today. It quotes some local whining about the new fee (“…government officials are trying to take money from citizens’ pockets…”).

Oh, boo-hoo.

Just don’t speed. Got that? And stay off the cell phone while you’re at it.

And it’s not just any official: it’s U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters!

But she’s not with a barnyard animal; she’s on her motorcycle. She’s an “enthusiast” and you can see her and hog on this PSA touting motorcycle safety.

Am sure this mode of transportation is giving her great miles-per-gallon. Certainly better than any 747.

Rick’s latest ABCNews.com column is about the high cost of oil and the future of air travel.

Sooooo, Rick fills in the blank with the word “grim”.

We fill in the blank with the word “MrHappyIsCrying”.

Now you try it! But better read his column first — yep, just click here.