Purely On Principle

Did you know that having a plastic cover over your car license plate is illegal in NYC? As if the city doesn't have better things to do than to issue $65 tickets to out of town drivers. Today, purely on principle, I drove from Albany to NYC and back again to fight the ridiculous charge. I was confronted with tolls, bridges, gas, misplaced directions, parking garage fees and a 3 hour wait at the NYC Finance Bldg. But as I sat waiting in downtown Manhatten, my spirits lifted because defendents were walking out with big smiles and reassuring grins. Must be they were getting their tickets thrown out, I surmised. Furthermore, I knew no Judge in his or her right mind would let a frivolous charge like mine stand. The court officer called my name and brought me to a small room to plead my case. It was closing time and the Judge didn't appear to be in a good mood. I turned on the 'ol charm. The speech I practiced all 250 miles down was repeated for the record. The Judge smirked, adjusted his chair, typed some stuff on his computer, then handed me back my tickets.

"Sorry sweetie, there's nothing I can do - NEXT!"

"But, but, but Judge..."

"NEXT! Move along sweetie, it's a long day and I want to get home too"

Today, I hate NYC.