Shafted by Virginia

"Dear military family,

Governor Warner can't seem to balance the budget, so we've decided to go after military families this holiday season. Two and a half years ago, you had the gall to purchase, via the internet, a suite of bedroom furniture from another state well known for their furniture. Somehow, we violated you privacy and found out you haven't paid VA state taxes on the items, nor have you filed our obscure personal tax form we didn't tell you about. You are a very bad man, and we're coming after you. Send us a check for $***.** by the end of next month or we'll charge you 30% interest on top of the interest we've already charged you. Thanks, and try to have a happy holiday season even though you can't buy your kids any gifts now."

That's the gist of the letter I received in the mail a few days ago. I'm going to visit the base legal office and see if there's any recourse, but I suspect I'll be writing a check soon. I don't mind paying taxes--"Render unto Caesar..." It's the fact they waited over two years and timed it with the holidays that really peeves me off.