For educational purposes only

The mysterious Cipher decided to send me a story about (shhhhh!) S-E-X. In Texas, no less. I remember being in San Antonio and thinking how funny it was in a local shop that sold comics, posters, t-shirts and smoking paraphenalia that the devices commonly known as bongs had to be referred to exclusively as "water pipes," or the shop could get into serious trouble. Extensive signage made this clear to any potential buyers before they even opened their mouths.

Apparently the same goes for the devices commonly known as dildos (I think I just earned myself fifty Hail Marys). They can be sold in Texas, but an elaborate lingo is in place to protect stores and customers from prosecution under Texas law.

The link features a video clip of the feisty Molly Ivins taking a look at some of the state's laws governing S-E-X, and the fundamentalist legislators who make it their business to keep the nineteenth century alive and well. Best viewed from a dry county.