This sort of reminds me of the difference between driving on the Beltway in VA and MD...
In VA, the big digital overhead signs flash messages about weather, traffic, and construction.
In MD, they flash an 800 number:
1-800-492-TIPS (8477)
and a message to "report suspicious activity". They've had those signs in MD for several years...
This program isn't actually being run by MD DOT, but by MCAC (Maryland Coordination and Analysis Center). If you want ot be REALLY creeped out by how they are doing things in MD (well, really, nationwide), download the "Suspicious Activities Reference Guide"...
Here are some things that qualify as "suspicious activities":
- Drivers who operate the vehicle in an overly cautious manner, attempt to abandon the vehicle or act nervously.
- Vehicle drivers who display noncompliant behavior, such as insisting on parking close to a building or crowded area.
- Wearing inappropriate attire such as heavy or bulky clothing inconsistent with weather conditions.
- With protruding bulges or exposed wires under clothing.
- With strange chemical odors associated with the individual.
And this one is the REAL gem of the list:
- Who display excessive sweating, mumbling to oneself, or displaying an unusually calm or detached demeanor.
So if you're sweaty, or you talk to yourself, or like to park close to the entrance of a building, or are wearing an ipod with headphones, or spilled Hoppes #9 on your clothes, or you are calm and self-assured (as opposed to being a compliant, cowering sheeple) then you MUST be a terrorist...
Essentially, what they are telling us is that anyone with a brain, some mechanical skills, some self-confidence, or who listens to PodCasts is "suspicious".
OK,
now, I think we're starting to get to the heart of the matter here...