SUNOCO, 3414 LONG BEACH RD OCEANSIDE, NY 11572

Last week, I attempted to purchase a pack of cigarettes at the above referenced Sunoco location.

The clerk asked for identification. I produced a valid driver's license issued by the state of Illinois. The clerk told me he would not sell me cigarettes because I did not have a NY driver's license.

I am over 40 and look it. That the clerk is required to ask for ID, I understand.

When I questioned the decision, the selfsame clerk produced a piece of paper on Sunoco letterhead that indicated no sale would be made if a customer did not have a NY DL. A passport would have been sufficient. I do not feel any need to carry a passport in the US.

Now, the state of New York (and every other state) allows me to DRIVE in that state with an Illinois DL. Every restaurant I've ever been to accepts my Illinois DL for identification for alcohol.

What really made this beyond tolerance was that this man was clearly enjoying humiliating me. It was intentionally malicious.

I drove to the next gas station, a Mobile and bought my cigarettes. As I related the incident to the clerk I was told that it was a frequent occurance, that the Mobile station sold many more packs of cigarettes (and beer and wine) because this particular clerk enjoyed dispensing his own off-shore law and humiliation.

I am posting this because I got tired of telling people about it. It is outrageous and insulting. I find it unlikely that Sunoco supports (or was responsible for the written policy I was shown).

What say you?

I'd like to see the station relieved of its ability to sell anything requiring identification since this is not a limited incident.

I'd like an apology. I'd like the clerk to be 'reeducated' and for Sunoco to either take responsibility for this or find him a job that does not allow him contact with the public.

I'd like not to have to send off this information to the Nassau County Consumer Affairs office, the state alcohol and tobacco licensing organizations, the New York State Attorney General and the Better Business Bureau.

But then, I've already typed it here, it's as simple as cut and paste.