musings

New York City is being slowly stripped of the quirks that once made it what it was. It all began with the conversion of 42nd street from cesspool of sin to one giant Disney fest. New Yorkers have become kinder, somewhat, gentler, and I venture to add, less combattive. The latest change is the additions to the list of rules for the subway, they are (in shortened form):

Rules of Conduct

MTA New York City Transit subway and bus rules make everyone’s ride better.
Failure to pay the fare or violation of any of the rules can result in arrest, fine, and/or ejection.

Please do not:

# Do not jump turnstiles – even if your MetroCard does not work properly
# You must show your fare card to a transit worker if it’s requested
# Do not straddle a bicycle, or wear in-line skates or roller skates
# No standing on a skateboard or small scooter while on the trains or buses
# Do not move between subway cars – even if the train is stopped
# Do not occupy more than one seat on subways or buses by putting up your feet or spreading your legs
# Don’t place bags on an empty seat
# Block free movement
# Lie down
# Engage in unauthorized commercial activity
# Carry open bulky items likely to cause inconvenience

The most preoccupying item is the last one. What NY-er hasn’t enjoyed a cup of coffee on their commute? Well, no more as most of these rules will be enforced under the guise of “safety.” All of this, of course, while we face a possible transit strike. Great.

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