17. December 2008 by admin.

Let’s face it, there are just times when you want to have your own space and not really engage in conversation on the Bus.  Everyone has days like that or there is just someone that you don’t want to talk with.  It’s ok, don’t worry about it. 

 Here’s a little secret that’s proven to work on the Bus.  If someone sits next to you and you really would prefer them to go elsewhere, a simple cough and conversation with them about how awful you feel goes a long way.  If they are not sick, they will quickly get up and find another seat.  It’s got a proven track record. 

Posted in characteristics | 1 Comment »

31. October 2008 by admin.

Tunnel Bus passengers are a unique bunch representing many nationalities and walks of life.  In fact, many consider fellow riders as part of their extended family.  I have not seen this comradity in other mass transportation systems anywhere.  Others have expressed that same opinion.  Riding the Tunnel Bus is much more than simply a mode of transportation but a source of knowledge and experience.  We all share not only a common experience of traveling between two countries for employment but I think miss some of the common bonds of living and working in the same city.  I feel that it is a link that we draws the ridership together.  We often discuss issues facing us such as currency exchange rates, work visas, citizenship, shoping and taxes.  There are few people that truly understand the complexity of issues that we must handle.  There is a common bond that draws us together.

 From time to time, I will focus describing various characteristics on the Tunnel Bus.  It is not my intent to use names or identify them.  All of our characteristics add something to the dynamics of the whole.  In all fairness, I will start with myself.  Most of the time, you can find me seated near the driver.  There are no assigened seats on the Bus but we often sit in the same place everyday.  During the Detroit International Auto Show, we complain with the onslaught of additional passengers, that “our” seats are filled.  It’s always good to bond with the Transit Windsor drivers.  They have influence on making the ride a pleasant experience.  They look out for you.  You know, those days when you’re running just a minute or two late and they wait for you.  It’s nice when a one minute delay doesn’t turn into a 20 minute delay while you wait for the next bus.  It’s like the school days, make sure everyone, especially the driver, knows when you’re going to be absent.  No need to delay everyone else.

Chatting with other riders is very entertaining.  I think I have developed a good receipe collection, banking information and even information on how to rebuild my deck at home.  People go out of their way and look out for each other.  It’s a good feeling that I wish more people would embrace.

For years, I have said I have friends on both sides of the border.  But it’s not any easy thing to accomplish when you work  in a foreign country.  Our friends in our neighborhood, churches or civic groups are in different circles from our work friends.  You can’t see your “Windsor” friends during a coffee break or lunch.  It’s not possible.  Riding the Bus, provides the link of friendship across the border. 

 Well, more on me later.  It’s Halloween and Friday afternoon.  It’s time to head home!

Till next week!

Posted in characteristics | 1 Comment »