Paul; If you lived in Central New Jersey, where a local post office was exposed to an anthrax-laden package and was closed for months as a result, you wouldn't think it was "ridiculous".

Personally speaking, I welcome the "inconvenience" when it comes to public safety. As Don Lueders posted ... they've got your picture at the post office while you are waiting in line being inconvenienced. Do I like the long lines? No, but the alternative is scary.