The Observer, February 10, 2006
Volume XXXVIII, Issue 16
A crash course in Greenie etiquette for new riders
I understand that the closest thing to fine china here at Case consists of plastic cups and plates, but etiquette is still important in every aspect of our lives.
No, I am not talking about using the outermost silverware first or having your drink on the right side. Although, now that I think about it, these are a few simple rules that will impress the ladies when you boys take them to Snowball or out to a nice restaurant for Valentine's Day. These things are coming up soon – as in four days from now – so start planning.
Chances are that you aren't the only nervous one who is out of the loop when it comes to the difference between the American (where your fork goes from your left hand while cutting your food to your right while eating) and Continental (where your fork stays in your left hand the whole time) styles of dining. Just make sure you chew with your mouth closed, and more dates will be in your future. Beyond these tips, well, you'll have to read those in a different column. You know, the column a few pages back.
The type of etiquette that I was actually referring to, before going on that tangent, is Greenie Etiquette. Yes, I made up the name, but there is an art to it, I can assure you. We here at Case are so high-tech that, as you are well aware, we now have a GPS system up and running. This means that more people are now catching the Greenies. While the GPS system has its benefits – less waiting or walking in the snow and being late to class – it does have its down side. The Greenies get crowded, and they aren't filled with just the "regulars" anymore. Now new riders pack the vehicles as well.
For these "newbies" I offer some tips. For the veterans, you could use a refresher, so don't stop reading now. First, move to the back. I know you want to be with your friends and not have to walk down the very short aisle, but it makes things so much easier for everyone. Take your friends with you, and you are accomplishing both things at once. Secondly, if the Greenie is really crowded and you happen to be near the door, just get off at the next stop – yes, even if it isn't your stop- so that others can get off. You wouldn't want to miss your stop, so don't let others miss theirs. After they get off, you can get right back on and continue your journey. Don't want to get off for others? Read tip one and you shouldn't be stuck with this dilemma. Tip No. 3 is something simple: move your bags. Don't have them taking up a seat – they don't get offended when you stick them on the floor. The ride might not be long, but sitting takes up less room. It helps everyone out.
If nothing else, just try to be polite. (Tip No. 4 for those keeping count.) You might not win an award or start a movement, like the late Rosa Parks, but you will be doing a service for your fellow greenie riders. Who knows, you might move your bag and the person who takes the seat could be that Valentine's Day date you have been searching for. Remember, mouth closed when eating!
