I'm running FC6 on my T60 as well. Works great (but I still have to
configure the 3D desktop). There are reports it will run MacOS X too.
Lenovo now makes the ThinkPads and while their laptops with the Lenovo
brand are more-cheaply made, the ThinkPad brand is still a premium
machine. You can get a lot of community support (www.thinkwiki.org,
forum.thinkpads.com, ThinkPad mailing list), download specification and
repair manuals, and parts are widely available and reasonably priced.
I've had a dozen or so ThinkPads ('486 to Core Duo) and have never
regretted buying one. It's all I'll buy or let my wife get (because I have
to maintain it).
FWIW, IBM still sells used, warranted ThinkPads and you can get a good
deal from them. Lenovo offers educational discounts through schools.
Chris