So-Called L.I. 'Hot Dog Hooker' Hits Bump In The Road With Permit Snag

BALDWIN, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) — Cathy Scalia is down but not out.

The so-called "hot dog hooker" hit some bumps in the road Thursday. Her truck was in the shop in need of brakes and the peddler's permit she needs from the Town of Hempstead includes a criminal background check.

"It will be sent up to the New York State Department of Criminal Justice for a review. I can tell you in the past she has been denied," Town of Hempstead spokesman Mike Deary told CBS 2's Carolyn Gusoff.

Scalia went to the Town of Hempstead Thursday morning to inquire about getting a peddler's permit, but left without applying after being told that a $50 application fee and other fees would be required.

So for now, it means Scalia can't legally operate her truck and is out of business.

The 45-year-old, who vowed to keep soliciting for her stripper business from her hot dog vending truck after pleading guilty to prostitution, said she thinks the requirement of a peddler's permit is being selectively enforced because of how she peddles.

"There are 500 coffee trucks out there --I don't see peddler's licenses on them, so why does my truck need a peddler's license?" Scalia asked.

She also added to her continuing reel of memorable quotes, saying "I think if women have a beautiful bust, why cover it?  Show it off. If you got it, flaunt it."

"Shake what your mama gave ya," Scalia added.

Scalia has been outspoken about her rights, but civic association members contend they have rights, too.

"The community is furious about here being here. We're trying to recover from the economic downturn and this doesn't help," Baldwin resident Jessenia Mendez said.

But even with community members, police and now luck against her, Scalia said she is determined to make a living and a point.

"I'm gonna sell my sex and my hot dogs -- my Sabretts and my sex," Scalia said.

Town of Hempstead officials said Scalia has every right to apply for a peddler's permit. However, it is unlikely it will be granted. They said she was turned down seven years ago because of a rap sheet, which is now even longer.

Do you think Scalia will be back selling her "Sabretts and sex?"  Share your thoughts in the comments section below...