I was thinking about freedom to go where I wanted and do what I
                   wanted. It seemed appropriate on Independence Day. I picked up my
                   boyfriend John, who lives about an hour away. I routinely guided my car
                   to a toll booth at the Ft. Washington terminal, having often remarked at
                   the kindness of the toll-takers there. John had precounted fifty pennies
                   for toll fare. I handed the attendant the money.
                   Granted, I should have thought about the toll before hand. I didn't mean
                   to resort to pennies, but it was that or a twenty dollar bill.
                   A lot has been said about toll booth attendants, but this one was one of
                   the most insolent, unprofessional people I have ever encountered:
                   "Pennies? You think people your age would be able to afford tolls. It's
                   sad," he said, very condescendingly. He seemed personally offended. In
                   the food service industry, where I hold a summer waitressing job, I would
                   be instantly fired for making such an ageist remark.
                   I handed him the pennies in groups of tens, as he requested. I couldn't
                   help but reply: "Well, I hope by the time I'm your age, I won't be working
                   in a toll booth for a living." Furthermore, the irony was such that my
                   boyfriend had $80 hard earned dollars (in twenties) in his pocket! After
                   another beligerent comment regarding my age from the toll booth bigot, I
                   was sure to inform him that I couldn't wait until he was totally replaced
                   by the EZ-Pass system*, which I had formerly found to be annoying. It
                   was now clear that this man went beyond the grumpy toll-taker
                   stereotype. He was just plain mean. I used to fight the idea of EZ-Pass,
                   but given the attitude-enhanced alternative, I'll take it.
                   "Have a nice day, sir," John remarked sarcastically. I laughed and put my
                   foot on on the gas, only to hear a very obscene two word reply. I
                   gathered he wasn't saying "And you," or "You too." I'm sure you get the
                   picture- Thank goodness EZ-Pass doesn't talk back.

                   *EZ-Pass is an automated turnpike toll system. It is available in
                   Pennsylvania from PennDOT. You attatch something to your rearview
                   mirror, and a sensor reads it and bills you for the toll.
 
 

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