The sign posted front and center in each PRTC OmniRide bus is quite clear, asking passengers to use cell phones briefly and only when necessary.
Yet from time to time, I have to wonder if that sign is either blatantly ignored, or if some riders are just completely unaware of its existence. And it just so happens that those same riders who disregard the sign also seem to be the ones lacking in the common sense department. I would assume that boarding a quiet bus full of sleepy commuters would be an indicator that noisy cell phone conversations are not appropriate. But we all know what happens when we assume.
I’ll be the first to admit that I’m not above turning around and giving the cell phone offender a dirty look, which is usually no problem, considering they’re almost always sitting directly behind me. Yesterday, I had to shoot the stink eye at a lady in a particularly loud conversation with her realtor. Yes, I’m sure the conversation was super important, but I’m guessing it probably could have waiting another 45 minutes for her to get off the bus.
One morning, I ended up taking the last OmniRide bus from the Route 123 Commuter Lot in Lake Ridge, as I was running a bit later than usual. The driver waited as a man, running even later than I was, hurried to catch the bus. He politely thanked the bus driver for waiting, but I noticed as he made his way back to a seat that he was holding a cell phone to his ear.
Oh great, I thought. So glad we waited for this guy!
I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who hoped he’d quickly end the conversation, now that he was on the crowded bus, but to our dismay, the casual conversation continued.
He chatted on and on until we were nearing the Pentagon, when suddenly a female passenger expressed her agitation and abruptly asked cell phone guy to cut it out. They bickered back and forth, until the female passenger called out to the bus driver to reiterate the cell phone policy. Keeping her cool, the bus driver used the intercom to remind all passengers that cell phones were to be used only in case of emergency, and that calls should be kept to a minimum.
But cell phone guy wasn’t going out without a fight. He refused to hang up, claiming he had a family emergency, and shot back by saying the other passenger was harassing him. I wondered if the bus driver felt like she was breaking up an argument between children, as she calmly asked him again to finish his conversation as quickly as possible.
Luckily, the argument didn’t last much longer, since we arrived at the Pentagon bus stop soon after. What impressed me, however, was how the bus driver dealt with the altercation between the two passengers. I’m sure she is used to grumpy people who aren’t exactly thrilled to be going to work every morning, but she remained unruffled and diplomatic in handling the situation. It certainly didn’t stop the rude passenger from being obnoxious, but at least the driver kept things from getting too out of hand.
Hopefully, her announcement was a good reminder of the cell phone policy to other passengers.
And if that fails, one thing is for sure – any passengers who insist on using their cell phone will get the stink eye.
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Traffic disruptions and lane reductions are set to begin on northbound I-495 (Capital Beltway Inner Loop) near Tysons, Virginia, as part of the 495 NEXT project’s Big Beam Weekend. The impacts will start tonight, Friday, January 24, at 9 p.m., and continue through 5 a.m. Monday, January 27. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and plan alternate routes, as significant delays and backups are anticipated.
Discover the hidden gems and rich history of Downtown Manassas on the thrilling Manassas Scavenger Hunt! This exciting walking tour will take you on a journey through the charming streets of Manassas, unlocking the secrets of its iconic landmarks and beloved attractions. From the historic Veterans Memorial to the majestic Water Tower and the Opera House, each location offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past.
Join the adventure and solve clues, unravel mysteries, and dive into the captivating stories that make Manassas unique. It’s a perfect outing for friends, families, or anyone looking for a fun and engaging way to explore this vibrant city.
Ready to embark on this unforgettable journey? Visit Manassas Scavenger Hunt for tickets and details.
With contraception rights under scrutiny nationwide, Virginia Democrats are doubling down on efforts to safeguard access, even as they brace for potential pushback from Gov. Glenn Youngkin, the Virginia Mercury reports.
House Bill 1716, introduced by Del. Cia Price, D-Newport News, passed the House of Delegates on Thursday, while a companion bill from Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Chesterfield, cleared the Senate Education and Health Committee.
Last year, similar bills passed both chambers with bipartisan support but were ultimately vetoed by Youngkin.
The Manassas City Council began its three-day retreat on Thursday at James Madison’s historic Montpelier, located over 80 miles south of the city. The event quickly raised concerns about public access after members of the public who traveled to attend the meeting discovered the venue was locked and inaccessible.
Virginia law mandates that government meetings remain open to the public unless they are specifically classified as legal closed-door sessions. According to Virginia’s open meetings laws, the Council’s work session and retreat did not qualify as a closed-door meeting, raising questions about compliance.
Former Councilwoman Lynn Forkell Green attended the event and confirmed the gate to the complex was locked. “I couldn’t get in. Had I not had the cell numbers of council members, I would not have gained access because the meeting space was more than a mile past the gate, and the complex was closed,” Forkell Green said. While she was able to contact a council member who provided the entry code, she noted that most members of the public would not have such relationships or access.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
