Dear Baltimore Ecosystem Study Van,

Photo courtesy of the BBC

Please don't judge the ecosystem of the Baltimore area, specifically the outer loop of 695, by the unfortunate hatchback that was spewing a fog of exhaust for the six miles of the beltway that we three shared on Monday. Cars with this particular problem seem to happen upon the beltway every once in a while, but are certainly not a regular presence. Don't give our ecosystem a failing grade because this car owner hasn't gotten that smoke problem checked out. In all likelihood his car will die soon, so it should be a zero sum gain don't you think?

By the way...why does your van have New York license plates? Why is New York always so judgmental of the rest of the country? Can't you leave us alone?

Sincerely,

Me