AstroWorld to go on auction block

Even though we hadn't been to AstroWorld in years, reading about the public auction of the theme park's stuff brought on a wave of nostalgia. We remember the hoopla when Ultra Twister debuted, the headaches from being banged around on the Texas Cyclone and the urban legends about the SkyScreamer going out of control and plunging into the little lake at its base. Ah, childhood.

If you're missing the old times, too, you might want to head over to the park Jan. 6, 7 and 8. A staggering variety of things will be on the auction block, including bulldozers, barbecue pits, the little train that ran around the park, a statue of a bull, lampposts, a carousel, a cannon, enormous fans and a couple of warehouses — it's kind of like your neighborhood yard sale, but with much bigger things. And yes, you can also buy four roller coasters: Greezed Lightnin', XLR8, Viper and Looping Starship. They'll take cash or credit cards.

Remember, though: No items come with warranties, so don't come back crying when your coaster breaks down.