Y'All,
I don't know why I always get blamed for the things I do. But in response
to the request below I will give some techniques I have used to improve my
survival odds above those of just plain dumb luck.
Jay wrote:
"I'd be especially interested in comments from Gene Whitt, who said ATC has
been trying to kill him for 40 years, and anyone who might recognize the
airport from the runways described."
It takes more than luck to be an old pilot.

--I always clear the final and bases before taking a runway.

--My preferred departure request is always a "270 on course to my
destination.
--This puts me above the pattern altitude quickly and clear of the
usual arrival paths.
--The "On Course" request is a far more specific notice to other pilots of
my intentions and path.

--When I an at anything other than pattern altitude I always inform ATC, not
that it means anything to them, I am talking beyond ATC to any aircraft on
the frequency.
--When I arrive at an airport I never report at a reporting point. I
call-up 1-2 miles to one side of the point and always at an altitude that is
other than ending in thousands or five-hundreds. Usually at
2300 or 2700 above airport elevation.
--I do not arrive on IFR approach corridors.
--When choice exists I will take the smaller runway.
--My preferred arrival is a base entry
--My most interesting arrival was a base entry over the numbers at pattern
altitude with a 270 short approach to the runway.
--If a conflicting aircraft fails to give altitude I query ATC to find out
altitude.

There are others but this should give some ideas of how to survive
at a Class D airport.

Gene Whitt