This being the MotorCity, let's start with a pair of transportation tidbits. Several years ago, I told you that since the gospel makes nary a mention of camels, I was willing to speculate that the three kings drove to Bethlehem in a Honda. For tradition has it that "they were of one accord." But now I am able to offer an eyewitness report that Santa Claus (or his brother who dresses like him) drives an Audi ... a beige Audi ... a beige Audi wagon ... complete with a cell phone. For I followed Santa south on Southfield (from Lincoln to 13 Mile) at 1:15 on Friday afternoon. Full beard. Full suit. Hat on dashboard. Phone in ear. Going over his list. Checking it twice. So now you know. Mystery solved.

Would that we could have easily solved the one that has consumed our interest here for the l…