Chapter 63

5/8/2005 

Ch 63 Bus Security

Go Greyhound                                  

Aunt Carol suggested that readers enjoy the danger themes, so I threw caution to the wind, disregarding Kevin's advice, and tested the security system on various bus lines.

Had to pick up a Silver BMW 325i- 5 speed at the Herb Chambers Charlestown AutoPort in Boston. Took Upstate Transit Bus from Clifton Park to Albany (20mi) using my four year old $1 DEC coupon. Knew the bus driver, ex cop Bob, so no problem there. Did notice additional security entering Albany Plaza. Now an aluminum I beam swing arm gate controlled by security shack. Believe it could be breached by ramming with a small rental truck.

Greyhound Albany to Boston $34. Things started to get dicey. Albany cop with drug sniffing German Shepherd. But he smiled at me in a friendly way, intuitively knowing I was not a Perp. On board I was surrounded by unsavory characters. Sat behind a stocky black dude who didn't seem menacing until we approached the Boston South End when he tied on his colors. A red nylon skull cap doo-rag with flap down over the back. Across the isle was a Muslim reading the Al Jeezera newspaper written in Arabic. Chinese, Hispanic, all sorts of multi national cultures aboard. Bus driver had a clear hardened plastic swing gate shield and signs protecting him from hijacking (would be easily compromised).

In Boston after third taxi attempt, was able to establish communication channels with English speaking driver to get to my destination. Security Officers (foreign) at Port guard gate took my drivers license, but with promise to return when I returned their visitor pass. There was a glitch as Jose informed me the car was not there amid the thousands of BMW's and Mercedes. 

Was invited to await in the inner bowels of the warehouse where I stumbled upon  an European Eastern Bloc car smuggling ring. Yuri was "prepping" a black 540 and was friendly until he became suspicious after a few too many questions. Had been in country for 6 years and claimed to be Albanian, but I detected a slight Russian accent. 

Not wanting to offend members of the Russian Mob, I backed off and started wandering around the warehouse. 

Found a big duck in storage, probably the same vehicle that Yuri services. Hope he didn't forget to fill with antifreeze. Boston duck tours have a spotty record.    Seattle and other cities face similar problems. Taking the tour is on my list of the Top 50 Things to Do. If only could get Dale & Barb interested. Like a duck in a noose (remember the DC sniper quote), I used the Photoshop Elements to enhance these old 3 megapixel photos 6/28/17 for reissue.

Trip exiting Boston uneventful.

Taking the train to NYC- LI again Tuesday. Believe if I turn off my flash, I'll not be detected and avoid the $25 fine and 10 days in prison prescribed for violation of last November's new ordinance.  See protest brethren and other neat photo sites.

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