[js2]

I set off the chemical detector at SFO once.

I'm convinced it was because I'd been to one of those indoor go-kart'ing places the day before as part of a company event, and wore the same jeans.

Extended screening was not a fun experience. I've always opted out so I'm used to the standard pat down. This was a lot more invasive. I was directed to a private area with two security officers (SFO uses a private contractor, not TSA). Besides a more thorough pat down, my bag was unpacked and its items were swabbed and chemical tested. I don't think the chemical tester went off a second time. The whole procedure took about 15 minutes. It's not the easiest situation in which to remain calm.

But, instead of getting annoyed at the security personnel (TSA or otherwise), I remind myself that this is ultimately the doing of congress and my fellow citizens. And then I send the ACLU another donation.