New York – New York City transit riders won’t be called “ladies and gentlemen” any more — but they’ll still be expected to act like it.
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The linguistic throwback to the white-gloved era is being jettisoned as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority updates its communication methods.
An MTA memo says train conductors will now ask riders to “partner” with them in removing their backpacks, staying clear of doors and keeping stations clean.
MTA Chairman Joe Lhota (LOH’-tuh) tells the Daily Newsthat it’s part of an initiative designed to make announcements more informative and “cheerful.”
Lhota says “canned messages” don’t work anymore.
Conductors also have a list of landmarks they can mention at stops, from the Apollo Theater to Yankee Stadium.
How about “queers and freaks?”
What’s really sad is that we are getting used to these mishigasin and don’t even react when we hear them. Most people nowadays just shake their heads and continue on with their days while we are surrounded by dor Sedom.
Another remnant of the basic civilty and public decency of a bygone age falls to the wayside.