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Main
Date: 28 Aug 2006 06:02:45
From: Buck
Subject: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
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I was nearly hit this morning. I was on a two-lane road approaching the
intersection with a 5 lane road (two lanes each way, one center turning
lane). I ALWAYS take the lane by moving to the left tire track because
the road curves to meet the bigger road square.
I was passed in the no-passing zone immediately before the curve. I was
sure the guy was going to hit the center median. I was right behind him
at the stop sign and felt compelled to inform him of the danger of the
situation.
He ignored me.
But he turned into my workplace. I followed him to his parking spot. I
introduced myself. I asked him politely to be more careful when passing
cyclists. He put the blame on me. "It was hard to see you since you are
wearing all black." He spoke these words while staring at my bright
blue cycling shirt. Perhaps it was the dark black glasses he was
wearing.
His last words to me were... "I don't know you."
Does this make it ok to run over me?
I think I will discuss this one with the boss.
-Buck
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Date: 04 Sep 2006 03:35:03
From:
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck wrote:
> Bob wrote:
> > On second thought- human nature being what it is- maybe you should just
> > mention it to your boss so if and when the offending driver tells *his*
> > boss that, "some nut that says he works here confronted me on company
> > property", you've already got your version of events out.
>
> After some critical thought, I decided to speak with our head "Public
> Safety" officer about it. He will be speaking with the offender and is
> planning on installing "Share the Road" signs along the main drives.
>
> I thought I would also point out one part of the conversation that
> rings in my head. I said that he needs to respect my right to the road.
> His reply was "When bicyclists start respecting stop signs, then I'll
> respect their right to the road." I told him that I can't be held
> accountable for other people's actions. That was when he walked away.
>
> So, for those of you who don't believe your actions, especially those
> disrespecting the traffic laws, have repercussions on other riders,
> here is an example of where they do.
>
> -Buck
I'll begin stopping at stop signs on my bike, just as soon as cars stop
COMPLETELY at stop signs. I'm doing them a favor, and forcing them to
stop.
duped
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Date: 03 Sep 2006 17:30:48
From: Veloise
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck wrote:
...
> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
> assaulted.
[incidents]
> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
> mind.
In the days and weeks following 9/11, I took to picking up all the US
flags that had fallen off of cars. Just for grins, I festooned my bike
with them (inserting the broken pole under the commuter basket on the
rear rack, sticking out horizontal). Traffic seemed a little nicer
passing me and my decorations.
Worth a try? US flag at dollar store, $1.00. Increased respect,
priceless.
HTH
--Karen D.
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Date: 04 Sep 2006 01:29:47
From: R Brickston
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
On 3 Sep 2006 17:30:48 -0700, "Veloise" <galena3066@mypacks.net >
wrote:
>Buck wrote:
>...
>> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
>> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
>> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
>> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
>> assaulted.
>[incidents]
>> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
>> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
>> mind.
>
>In the days and weeks following 9/11, I took to picking up all the US
>flags that had fallen off of cars. Just for grins, I festooned my bike
>with them (inserting the broken pole under the commuter basket on the
>rear rack, sticking out horizontal). Traffic seemed a little nicer
>passing me and my decorations.
>
>Worth a try? US flag at dollar store, $1.00. Increased respect,
>priceless.
>
>HTH
>
>--Karen D.
It wouldn't surprise me to see Baka coming down the road with the
Jolly Roger flapping in the breeze.
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| | | |
Date: 03 Sep 2006 21:19:19
From: n5hsr
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"R Brickston" <rb20170REMOVE.yahoo.com@ > wrote in message
news:6a0nf21loe0b3ka9nf55d46sp19vid3tld@4ax.com...
> On 3 Sep 2006 17:30:48 -0700, "Veloise" <galena3066@mypacks.net>
> wrote:
>
>>Buck wrote:
>>...
>>> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
>>> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
>>> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
>>> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
>>> assaulted.
>>[incidents]
>>> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
>>> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
>>> mind.
>>
>>In the days and weeks following 9/11, I took to picking up all the US
>>flags that had fallen off of cars. Just for grins, I festooned my bike
>>with them (inserting the broken pole under the commuter basket on the
>>rear rack, sticking out horizontal). Traffic seemed a little nicer
>>passing me and my decorations.
>>
>>Worth a try? US flag at dollar store, $1.00. Increased respect,
>>priceless.
>>
>>HTH
>>
>>--Karen D.
>
> It wouldn't surprise me to see Baka coming down the road with the
> Jolly Roger flapping in the breeze.
Hey, wait a second. During Bristol Faire season, I'm supposed to be flying
the Jolly Roger. But tomorrow's the last day of the Faire season. If it
wasn't so far, I'd ride my bike up there. Saturday somebody actually did,
and parked in the motorcycle lot.
Charles of Schaumburg
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Date: 04 Sep 2006 01:32:44
From: Bill Baka
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
R Brickston wrote:
> On 3 Sep 2006 17:30:48 -0700, "Veloise" <galena3066@mypacks.net>
> wrote:
>
>> Buck wrote:
>> ...
>>> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
>>> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
>>> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
>>> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
>>> assaulted.
>> [incidents]
>>> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
>>> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
>>> mind.
>> In the days and weeks following 9/11, I took to picking up all the US
>> flags that had fallen off of cars. Just for grins, I festooned my bike
>> with them (inserting the broken pole under the commuter basket on the
>> rear rack, sticking out horizontal). Traffic seemed a little nicer
>> passing me and my decorations.
>>
>> Worth a try? US flag at dollar store, $1.00. Increased respect,
>> priceless.
>>
>> HTH
>>
>> --Karen D.
>
> It wouldn't surprise me to see Baka coming down the road with the
> Jolly Roger flapping in the breeze.
Har, har, har, yee scurvy dogs.
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| | | | |
Date: 03 Sep 2006 21:21:36
From: n5hsr
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"Bill Baka" <bbaka@syix.com > wrote in message
news:0nLKg.15167$%j7.8247@newssvr29.news.prodigy.net...
>R Brickston wrote:
>> On 3 Sep 2006 17:30:48 -0700, "Veloise" <galena3066@mypacks.net>
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Buck wrote:
>>> ...
>>>> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
>>>> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
>>>> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
>>>> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
>>>> assaulted.
>>> [incidents]
>>>> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
>>>> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
>>>> mind.
>>> In the days and weeks following 9/11, I took to picking up all the US
>>> flags that had fallen off of cars. Just for grins, I festooned my bike
>>> with them (inserting the broken pole under the commuter basket on the
>>> rear rack, sticking out horizontal). Traffic seemed a little nicer
>>> passing me and my decorations.
>>>
>>> Worth a try? US flag at dollar store, $1.00. Increased respect,
>>> priceless.
>>>
>>> HTH
>>>
>>> --Karen D.
>>
>> It wouldn't surprise me to see Baka coming down the road with the
>> Jolly Roger flapping in the breeze.
>
> Har, har, har, yee scurvy dogs.
This episode of Stresame Street brought to you by the letter Arrr, and the
number 8, the pirate's favorite coin (Piece of 8 or Spanish Milled Dollar,
the ancestor of the US Dollar.)
Charles of Schaumburg
Aka Andrew MacGary, Quartermasters Mate of the Ursula, till tomorrow night,
at least.
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Date: 02 Sep 2006 10:37:24
From:
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
On 28 Aug 2006 06:02:45 -0700, "Buck" <bicyclebuck@gmail.com > wrote:
>I was nearly hit this morning. I was on a two-lane road approaching the
>intersection with a 5 lane road (two lanes each way, one center turning
>lane). I ALWAYS take the lane by moving to the left tire track because
>the road curves to meet the bigger road square.
>
>I was passed in the no-passing zone immediately before the curve. I was
>sure the guy was going to hit the center median. I was right behind him
>at the stop sign and felt compelled to inform him of the danger of the
>situation.
>
>He ignored me.
>
>But he turned into my workplace. I followed him to his parking spot. I
>introduced myself. I asked him politely to be more careful when passing
>cyclists. He put the blame on me. "It was hard to see you since you are
>wearing all black." He spoke these words while staring at my bright
>blue cycling shirt. Perhaps it was the dark black glasses he was
>wearing.
>
>His last words to me were... "I don't know you."
>
>Does this make it ok to run over me?
>
>I think I will discuss this one with the boss.
>
>-Buck
His "i don't know you" would have not meant he doesn't car about me,
but it gives me the inventation that he couldn't report who you are
when you let the air out of his tires later. :D
I was at a job site, where a supervisor was so this liked, someone(s)
visited his car during lunch, and using vicegrips, ripped out his tire
valves.
Disclaimer: This is meant as a joke, not advice to commit a violent
act.
TOM
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Date: 01 Sep 2006 17:14:49
From: Buck
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
n5hsr wrote:
> Remind me where you are near. Sounds like you're pretty close to vell.
> (Don't get caught going over 20 there.) I used to live in Jonesboro, and
> in Helena and in Arkadelphia back in the 80's.
Well south of vell, west of the delta, not quite into Louisiana.
I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
assaulted.
The last one happened on the way home tonight. I don't know what the
guy's problem was, but he blasted his horn continuously while
tailgating me for nearly two blocks. I was on the right side of the
lane to begin and there was plenty of room to pass. He didn't take the
opportunity. As he continued to follow me, I had to move left to cross
the tracks safely. So I was on the left side of the lane when we
stopped for the red light (my normal position).
He squeezed between me and the curb so he could hurl a string of
epitaphs worthy of a sailor. They generally consisted of improper
descriptors of my bicycle and the road which I should move off of. I
had to yell (the combination of his diesel engine and his foul mouth
were quite loud) to tell him that Arkansas law gives me the right to be
on the road. The next string of curses were about his extraordinary
lack of concern about the law. I pointed out that if I held him up at
all it was well less than 30 seconds and we made that up by being
caught at the same light. I left at the green light with him still
yelling.
Unfortunately, I was more interested in going home than getting his
license plate. When I thought about it, I had already passed through
the light and he had turned right. I suppose it's just another incident
that might be taken seriously in some places, but won't be here.
I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
mind.
-Buck
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| | |
Date: 02 Sep 2006 01:49:56
From: n5hsr
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"Buck" <bicyclebuck@gmail.com > wrote in message
news:1157156089.132567.268320@h48g2000cwc.googlegroups.com...
> n5hsr wrote:
>> Remind me where you are near. Sounds like you're pretty close to
>> vell.
>> (Don't get caught going over 20 there.) I used to live in Jonesboro,
>> and
>> in Helena and in Arkadelphia back in the 80's.
>
> Well south of vell, west of the delta, not quite into Louisiana.
>
There's not a lot of bicycle paths in that part of Arkansas. We used to say
the Arkies used to drive either 20 or 45 because that was the top speed of
first and second gear in the Model T's they used to drive.
> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
> assaulted.
>
> The last one happened on the way home tonight. I don't know what the
> guy's problem was, but he blasted his horn continuously while
> tailgating me for nearly two blocks. I was on the right side of the
> lane to begin and there was plenty of room to pass. He didn't take the
> opportunity. As he continued to follow me, I had to move left to cross
> the tracks safely. So I was on the left side of the lane when we
> stopped for the red light (my normal position).
>
> He squeezed between me and the curb so he could hurl a string of
> epitaphs worthy of a sailor. They generally consisted of improper
> descriptors of my bicycle and the road which I should move off of. I
> had to yell (the combination of his diesel engine and his foul mouth
> were quite loud) to tell him that Arkansas law gives me the right to be
> on the road. The next string of curses were about his extraordinary
> lack of concern about the law. I pointed out that if I held him up at
> all it was well less than 30 seconds and we made that up by being
> caught at the same light. I left at the green light with him still
> yelling.
>
> Unfortunately, I was more interested in going home than getting his
> license plate. When I thought about it, I had already passed through
> the light and he had turned right. I suppose it's just another incident
> that might be taken seriously in some places, but won't be here.
>
> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
> mind.
>
> -Buck
>
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| | |
Date: 02 Sep 2006 00:41:25
From: Bill Baka
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck wrote:
> n5hsr wrote:
>> Remind me where you are near. Sounds like you're pretty close to vell.
>> (Don't get caught going over 20 there.) I used to live in Jonesboro, and
>> in Helena and in Arkadelphia back in the 80's.
>
> Well south of vell, west of the delta, not quite into Louisiana.
>
> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
> assaulted.
>
> The last one happened on the way home tonight. I don't know what the
> guy's problem was, but he blasted his horn continuously while
> tailgating me for nearly two blocks. I was on the right side of the
> lane to begin and there was plenty of room to pass. He didn't take the
> opportunity. As he continued to follow me, I had to move left to cross
> the tracks safely. So I was on the left side of the lane when we
> stopped for the red light (my normal position).
>
> He squeezed between me and the curb so he could hurl a string of
> epitaphs worthy of a sailor. They generally consisted of improper
> descriptors of my bicycle and the road which I should move off of. I
> had to yell (the combination of his diesel engine and his foul mouth
> were quite loud) to tell him that Arkansas law gives me the right to be
> on the road. The next string of curses were about his extraordinary
> lack of concern about the law. I pointed out that if I held him up at
> all it was well less than 30 seconds and we made that up by being
> caught at the same light. I left at the green light with him still
> yelling.
>
> Unfortunately, I was more interested in going home than getting his
> license plate. When I thought about it, I had already passed through
> the light and he had turned right. I suppose it's just another incident
> that might be taken seriously in some places, but won't be here.
>
> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
> mind.
>
> -Buck
>
You just reminded me of why I sold my father's house in Arkansas when he
died in 2002. I wouldn't live in the south on a dare.
Bill Baka
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| | | |
Date: 02 Sep 2006 01:51:42
From: n5hsr
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"Bill Baka" <bbaka@syix.com > wrote in message
news:Vq4Kg.14046$1f6.1660@newssvr27.news.prodigy.net...
> Buck wrote:
>> n5hsr wrote:
>>> Remind me where you are near. Sounds like you're pretty close to
>>> vell.
>>> (Don't get caught going over 20 there.) I used to live in Jonesboro,
>>> and
>>> in Helena and in Arkadelphia back in the 80's.
>>
>> Well south of vell, west of the delta, not quite into Louisiana.
>>
>> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
>> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
>> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
>> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
>> assaulted.
>>
>> The last one happened on the way home tonight. I don't know what the
>> guy's problem was, but he blasted his horn continuously while
>> tailgating me for nearly two blocks. I was on the right side of the
>> lane to begin and there was plenty of room to pass. He didn't take the
>> opportunity. As he continued to follow me, I had to move left to cross
>> the tracks safely. So I was on the left side of the lane when we
>> stopped for the red light (my normal position).
>>
>> He squeezed between me and the curb so he could hurl a string of
>> epitaphs worthy of a sailor. They generally consisted of improper
>> descriptors of my bicycle and the road which I should move off of. I
>> had to yell (the combination of his diesel engine and his foul mouth
>> were quite loud) to tell him that Arkansas law gives me the right to be
>> on the road. The next string of curses were about his extraordinary
>> lack of concern about the law. I pointed out that if I held him up at
>> all it was well less than 30 seconds and we made that up by being
>> caught at the same light. I left at the green light with him still
>> yelling.
>>
>> Unfortunately, I was more interested in going home than getting his
>> license plate. When I thought about it, I had already passed through
>> the light and he had turned right. I suppose it's just another incident
>> that might be taken seriously in some places, but won't be here.
>>
>> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
>> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
>> mind.
>>
>> -Buck
>>
> You just reminded me of why I sold my father's house in Arkansas when he
> died in 2002. I wouldn't live in the south on a dare.
> Bill Baka
In the 1980's, I didn't have much of a choice. And I got to see nearly a
decade of Bill Clinton's unique leadership. (We looked to him for
leadership, but all we got was leadersh!t.)
Charles of Schaumburg
|
| | | | |
Date: 02 Sep 2006 18:04:43
From: Bill Baka
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
n5hsr wrote:
> "Bill Baka" <bbaka@syix.com> wrote in message
> news:Vq4Kg.14046$1f6.1660@newssvr27.news.prodigy.net...
>> Buck wrote:
>>> n5hsr wrote:
>>>> Remind me where you are near. Sounds like you're pretty close to
>>>> vell.
>>>> (Don't get caught going over 20 there.) I used to live in Jonesboro,
>>>> and
>>>> in Helena and in Arkadelphia back in the 80's.
>>> Well south of vell, west of the delta, not quite into Louisiana.
>>>
>>> I have to admit that I'm getting a bit tired of this place. It seemed
>>> like a decent place for the last few years, but someone gave licenses
>>> to all the jackass drivers this week. I've been honked at several
>>> times, passed way too close too many times to count, and verbally
>>> assaulted.
>>>
>>> The last one happened on the way home tonight. I don't know what the
>>> guy's problem was, but he blasted his horn continuously while
>>> tailgating me for nearly two blocks. I was on the right side of the
>>> lane to begin and there was plenty of room to pass. He didn't take the
>>> opportunity. As he continued to follow me, I had to move left to cross
>>> the tracks safely. So I was on the left side of the lane when we
>>> stopped for the red light (my normal position).
>>>
>>> He squeezed between me and the curb so he could hurl a string of
>>> epitaphs worthy of a sailor. They generally consisted of improper
>>> descriptors of my bicycle and the road which I should move off of. I
>>> had to yell (the combination of his diesel engine and his foul mouth
>>> were quite loud) to tell him that Arkansas law gives me the right to be
>>> on the road. The next string of curses were about his extraordinary
>>> lack of concern about the law. I pointed out that if I held him up at
>>> all it was well less than 30 seconds and we made that up by being
>>> caught at the same light. I left at the green light with him still
>>> yelling.
>>>
>>> Unfortunately, I was more interested in going home than getting his
>>> license plate. When I thought about it, I had already passed through
>>> the light and he had turned right. I suppose it's just another incident
>>> that might be taken seriously in some places, but won't be here.
>>>
>>> I have to admit, posting about it to sympathetic readers takes away
>>> some of the frustration. It's nice to converse with people of a like
>>> mind.
>>>
>>> -Buck
>>>
>> You just reminded me of why I sold my father's house in Arkansas when he
>> died in 2002. I wouldn't live in the south on a dare.
>> Bill Baka
>
> In the 1980's, I didn't have much of a choice. And I got to see nearly a
> decade of Bill Clinton's unique leadership. (We looked to him for
> leadership, but all we got was leadersh!t.)
>
> Charles of Schaumburg
>
>
All I can say about Clinton, aside from being a horndog is that he did
not run the deficit (and debt) through the roof with big war games.
I say games because if it was an actual war Iraq would be a big crater
by now.
Bill Baka
|
| |
Date: 31 Aug 2006 12:47:29
From: Buck
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Pat Lamb wrote:
> Back to the OP, though, was there some reason for not calling the
> police? The incident could be construed as an assault, and happened
> away from work, so ISTM the police would be the people to talk to
> instead of bosses, etc.
It could be construed as assault in some places, but here in Southern
Arkansas, it hardly qualifies for the police's attention. You should
have seen their reaction when they had to respond to an the incident
involving me (on a bicycle) and a dog.
I thought it would be resolved with a friendly conversation between
colleagues. I now realize that there is no real resolution other than
having his thinking adjusted by someone with authority over him.
I did chat with another of our "safety officers" yesterday. He asked if
I was the one "run off the road" the day before. I had to correct him
that I wasn't really run off the road, but I was involved in a conflict
on the road. He knew who the driver was and said "We'll just have to
teach that boy a lesson." That "boy" is in his forties. I guess some
stereotypes are based in truth.
He did mention putting together an article for our newsletter. I
offered to contribute. I guess this means that public safety will be
getting the word out. I'm not holding my breath.
As a final note, I have to say that this new school year has brought me
more trouble than years past. This morning's ride brought a near-pass
in a no-passing zone (she was ignoring the oncoming truck but slowed
when I put up the universal "stop that and wait a second you idiot"
signal), and a honk from three feet behind (a different old lady
thought I was crossing the railroad tracks too slowly). It looks to be
a banner year.
-Buck
|
| | |
Date: 31 Aug 2006 21:50:02
From: n5hsr
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"Buck" <bicyclebuck@gmail.com > wrote in message
news:1157053649.399892.247370@m73g2000cwd.googlegroups.com...
> Pat Lamb wrote:
>> Back to the OP, though, was there some reason for not calling the
>> police? The incident could be construed as an assault, and happened
>> away from work, so ISTM the police would be the people to talk to
>> instead of bosses, etc.
>
> It could be construed as assault in some places, but here in Southern
> Arkansas, it hardly qualifies for the police's attention. You should
> have seen their reaction when they had to respond to an the incident
> involving me (on a bicycle) and a dog.
>
> I thought it would be resolved with a friendly conversation between
> colleagues. I now realize that there is no real resolution other than
> having his thinking adjusted by someone with authority over him.
>
> I did chat with another of our "safety officers" yesterday. He asked if
> I was the one "run off the road" the day before. I had to correct him
> that I wasn't really run off the road, but I was involved in a conflict
> on the road. He knew who the driver was and said "We'll just have to
> teach that boy a lesson." That "boy" is in his forties. I guess some
> stereotypes are based in truth.
>
> He did mention putting together an article for our newsletter. I
> offered to contribute. I guess this means that public safety will be
> getting the word out. I'm not holding my breath.
>
> As a final note, I have to say that this new school year has brought me
> more trouble than years past. This morning's ride brought a near-pass
> in a no-passing zone (she was ignoring the oncoming truck but slowed
> when I put up the universal "stop that and wait a second you idiot"
> signal), and a honk from three feet behind (a different old lady
> thought I was crossing the railroad tracks too slowly). It looks to be
> a banner year.
>
> -Buck
>
Remind me where you are near. Sounds like you're pretty close to vell.
(Don't get caught going over 20 there.) I used to live in Jonesboro, and
in Helena and in Arkadelphia back in the 80's.
Charles of Schaumburg.
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Date: 31 Aug 2006 12:21:32
From: NYC XYZ
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
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You should have cracked his nose sideways with your hand pump.
On Tuesday my colleague was nearly run over by our boss. The moron cut
her off (they're both motorists) and nearly hit an old lady with a
grocery cart blowing past a yellow light. Idiot showed up in the
office after she did, anyway, since where he parks isn't manned and he
has to use some ID which evidently didn't work and held him up.
Goddamned motorists. The most courteous people become well-practiced
assholes behind the wheels.
Buck wrote:
> I was nearly hit this morning. I was on a two-lane road approaching the
> intersection with a 5 lane road (two lanes each way, one center turning
> lane). I ALWAYS take the lane by moving to the left tire track because
> the road curves to meet the bigger road square.
>
> I was passed in the no-passing zone immediately before the curve. I was
> sure the guy was going to hit the center median. I was right behind him
> at the stop sign and felt compelled to inform him of the danger of the
> situation.
>
> He ignored me.
>
> But he turned into my workplace. I followed him to his parking spot. I
> introduced myself. I asked him politely to be more careful when passing
> cyclists. He put the blame on me. "It was hard to see you since you are
> wearing all black." He spoke these words while staring at my bright
> blue cycling shirt. Perhaps it was the dark black glasses he was
> wearing.
>
> His last words to me were... "I don't know you."
>
> Does this make it ok to run over me?
>
> I think I will discuss this one with the boss.
>
> -Buck
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Date: 30 Aug 2006 18:19:03
From:
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck wrote:
> He ignored me.
>
> But he turned into my workplace. I followed him to his parking spot. I
> introduced myself. I asked him politely to be more careful when passing
> cyclists. He put the blame on me. "It was hard to see you since you are
> wearing all black." He spoke these words while staring at my bright
> blue cycling shirt. Perhaps it was the dark black glasses he was
> wearing.
>
> His last words to me were... "I don't know you."
>
> Does this make it ok to run over me?
>
> I think I will discuss this one with the boss.
>
> -Buck
Shit man, you lost it when you had him at your workplace and then
meekly approached him- you should have been raging, grab him by his
lapels and slam him into his car and warn him if he ever crosses your
path again. Make sure that you don't get any pee on you when he pisses
his pants.
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Date: 30 Aug 2006 14:55:11
From: Veloise
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck wrote:
...
> I assume that you don't believe the driver meant what he said. I do
> believe what he said. His actions towards me on the road bear out his
> beliefs. He had no respect for me despite my speed (~20mph), lane
> position (left tire track), the double yellow line, and the rapidly
> approaching median. I think his initial claim that I was hard to see
> was an attempt to redirect the blame. I believe his second statement,
> made in response to my reply, was to redirect the blame to all
> cyclists. Either way, he was determined not to admit any wrongdoing in
> the matter.
The real problem was you distracted him from
texting/dialing/drinking/shaving so he had to put a hand on the wheel.
This could almost be considered harrassment.
HTH
--Karen D.
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Date: 30 Aug 2006 13:12:17
From: Buck
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Dane Buson wrote:
> Buck <bicyclebuck@gmail.com> wrote:
> > I thought I would also point out one part of the conversation that
> > rings in my head. I said that he needs to respect my right to the road.
> > His reply was "When bicyclists start respecting stop signs, then I'll
> > respect their right to the road." I told him that I can't be held
> > accountable for other people's actions. That was when he walked away.
> >
> > So, for those of you who don't believe your actions, especially those
> > disrespecting the traffic laws, have repercussions on other riders,
> > here is an example of where they do.
>
> After a fair amount of consideration I really don't believe that. It's
> essentially a rationalization to justify doing or saying crappy things
> to the "other" group. Bicyclists are a minority of the population, and
> anyone who uses a bike for transportation instead of a toy definitely
> puts themselves in the "outsider" group. Xenophobia and ignorance does
> the rest.
I assume that you don't believe the driver meant what he said. I do
believe what he said. His actions towards me on the road bear out his
beliefs. He had no respect for me despite my speed (~20mph), lane
position (left tire track), the double yellow line, and the rapidly
approaching median. I think his initial claim that I was hard to see
was an attempt to redirect the blame. I believe his second statement,
made in response to my reply, was to redirect the blame to all
cyclists. Either way, he was determined not to admit any wrongdoing in
the matter.
-Buck
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| | |
Date: 30 Aug 2006 13:24:05
From: Dane Buson
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck <bicyclebuck@gmail.com > wrote:
> Dane Buson wrote:
>> Buck <bicyclebuck@gmail.com> wrote:
>> > I thought I would also point out one part of the conversation that
>> > rings in my head. I said that he needs to respect my right to the road.
>> > His reply was "When bicyclists start respecting stop signs, then I'll
>> > respect their right to the road." I told him that I can't be held
>> > accountable for other people's actions. That was when he walked away.
>> >
>> > So, for those of you who don't believe your actions, especially those
>> > disrespecting the traffic laws, have repercussions on other riders,
>> > here is an example of where they do.
>>
>> After a fair amount of consideration I really don't believe that. It's
>> essentially a rationalization to justify doing or saying crappy things
>> to the "other" group. Bicyclists are a minority of the population, and
>> anyone who uses a bike for transportation instead of a toy definitely
>> puts themselves in the "outsider" group. Xenophobia and ignorance does
>> the rest.
>
> I assume that you don't believe the driver meant what he said. I do
> believe what he said. His actions towards me on the road bear out his
> beliefs. He had no respect for me despite my speed (~20mph), lane
> position (left tire track), the double yellow line, and the rapidly
> approaching median. I think his initial claim that I was hard to see
> was an attempt to redirect the blame. I believe his second statement,
> made in response to my reply, was to redirect the blame to all
> cyclists. Either way, he was determined not to admit any wrongdoing in
> the matter.
Did he mean it? Sure. If every cyclist he saw in the future
punctiliously followed every traffic regulation would he stop having a
problem with cyclists. Probably not. He'd probably say something like
"You mess up traffic", "You don't pay for your fair share of the roads",
"You should get a real vehicle to get to work", etc., etc., ad nauseum,
ad infinitum.
I'm saying the whole "When bicyclists start respecting [X]" is a
strawman at best. I see plenty of motorists running red lights and stop
signs and nobody seems to paint all drivers with that brush. Because
the majority of people are car drivers.
Also, as he pointed out, it sounds like he really was just looking for
*any* reason to assign blame to you instead of himself. *shrug* Some
people are like that.
--
Dane Buson - sigdane@unixbigots.org
In my experience, if you have to keep the lavatory door shut by extending
your left leg, it's modern architecture.
-- Nancy Banks Smith
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| | | |
Date: 31 Aug 2006 03:11:36
From: Claire Petersky
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"Dane Buson" <dane@unseen.edu > wrote in message
news:5o8hs3-87a.ln1@zuvembi.homelinux.org...
> I'm saying the whole "When bicyclists start respecting [X]" is a
> strawman at best. I see plenty of motorists running red lights and stop
> signs and nobody seems to paint all drivers with that brush. Because
> the majority of people are car drivers.
Just for fun, yesterday I counted the number of cars that failed to make a
complete stop at the red, before turning right, while waiting for my light.
Of the eight that passed me on the right to make a right turn, two made a
complete stop.
Then, as I rode up to the Your Speed Is sign, not a single car was less than
5 mph over the 25 mph speed limit.
Lookit, motorists don't care if bicyclists or other motorists disobey the
law. What motorists care about is either:
a. bicycles that are "in the way"
or
b. bicycles that seem to suddenly appear out of nowhere, and therefore are
frightening.
You could ride all day and night doing stupid and illegal riding, such as:
riding the wrong way, riding on the sidewalk, failing to use proper lighting
in the dark, and as long as you neither startled nor got in the way of a
motorist, they'd be quite happy with you as a cyclist. But if you lawfully
ride on the street and delay them 3/8s of a second, most of them perceive
you as a nuisance and a scofflaw.
--
Warm Regards,
Claire Petersky
http://www.bicyclemeditations.org/
See the books I've set free at: http://bookcrossing.com/referral/Cpetersky
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| | | | |
Date: 31 Aug 2006 08:18:09
From: Pat Lamb
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Claire Petersky wrote:
>
> You could ride all day and night doing stupid and illegal riding, such as:
> riding the wrong way, riding on the sidewalk, failing to use proper lighting
> in the dark, and as long as you neither startled nor got in the way of a
> motorist, they'd be quite happy with you as a cyclist. But if you lawfully
> ride on the street and delay them 3/8s of a second, most of them perceive
> you as a nuisance and a scofflaw.
Ain't that the truth!
I've come up with a new <blessing > for some motorists: "You need to move
downtown, so you don't have to drive so far." It seems such a pity to
spend so much to live so far from where they work, shop, take the kids
to school, etc., that they can't enjoy life because of the drive to get
there.
Back to the OP, though, was there some reason for not calling the
police? The incident could be construed as an assault, and happened
away from work, so ISTM the police would be the people to talk to
instead of bosses, etc.
Pat
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Date: 30 Aug 2006 08:00:59
From: Buck
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Bob wrote:
> On second thought- human nature being what it is- maybe you should just
> mention it to your boss so if and when the offending driver tells *his*
> boss that, "some nut that says he works here confronted me on company
> property", you've already got your version of events out.
After some critical thought, I decided to speak with our head "Public
Safety" officer about it. He will be speaking with the offender and is
planning on installing "Share the Road" signs along the main drives.
I thought I would also point out one part of the conversation that
rings in my head. I said that he needs to respect my right to the road.
His reply was "When bicyclists start respecting stop signs, then I'll
respect their right to the road." I told him that I can't be held
accountable for other people's actions. That was when he walked away.
So, for those of you who don't believe your actions, especially those
disrespecting the traffic laws, have repercussions on other riders,
here is an example of where they do.
-Buck
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| | |
Date: 30 Aug 2006 11:02:44
From: Dane Buson
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck <bicyclebuck@gmail.com > wrote:
> Bob wrote:
>> On second thought- human nature being what it is- maybe you should just
>> mention it to your boss so if and when the offending driver tells *his*
>> boss that, "some nut that says he works here confronted me on company
>> property", you've already got your version of events out.
>
> After some critical thought, I decided to speak with our head "Public
> Safety" officer about it. He will be speaking with the offender and is
> planning on installing "Share the Road" signs along the main drives.
That sounds like a pretty reasonably response. It sounds like he took
you seriously, which is a nice change from the sort of thing we
frequently hear.
> I thought I would also point out one part of the conversation that
> rings in my head. I said that he needs to respect my right to the road.
> His reply was "When bicyclists start respecting stop signs, then I'll
> respect their right to the road." I told him that I can't be held
> accountable for other people's actions. That was when he walked away.
>
> So, for those of you who don't believe your actions, especially those
> disrespecting the traffic laws, have repercussions on other riders,
> here is an example of where they do.
After a fair amount of consideration I really don't believe that. It's
essentially a rationalization to justify doing or saying crappy things
to the "other" group. Bicyclists are a minority of the population, and
anyone who uses a bike for transportation instead of a toy definitely
puts themselves in the "outsider" group. Xenophobia and ignorance does
the rest.
It's pretty much in the same group as things like:
[Ethnic group] is so [lazy
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| |
Date: 28 Aug 2006 17:37:11
From: Roger Houston
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"Buck" <bicyclebuck@gmail.com > wrote in message
news:1156770162.740165.212360@m79g2000cwm.googlegroups.com...
>
> I was passed in the no-passing zone immediately before the curve. I was
> sure the guy was going to hit the center median. I was right behind him
> at the stop sign and felt compelled to inform him of the danger of the
> situation.
>
> He ignored me.
>
> But he turned into my workplace.
That there isn't a "coworker". It's a Cow Orker. There's a difference, and
you've spotted it.
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| | |
Date: 29 Aug 2006 01:19:58
From: Tom Kunich
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
"Roger Houston" <houstonr@nasa.org > wrote in message
news:19idnZZYdb-U7G7ZnZ2dnUVZ_tednZ2d@centurytel.net...
>
> "Buck" <bicyclebuck@gmail.com> wrote in message
> news:1156770162.740165.212360@m79g2000cwm.googlegroups.com...
>>
>> I was passed in the no-passing zone immediately before the curve. I was
>> sure the guy was going to hit the center median. I was right behind him
>> at the stop sign and felt compelled to inform him of the danger of the
>> situation.
>>
>> He ignored me.
>>
>> But he turned into my workplace.
>
> That there isn't a "coworker". It's a Cow Orker. There's a difference,
> and you've spotted it.
Twenty Points!!!
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Date: 28 Aug 2006 20:59:22
From: R Brickston
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
On 28 Aug 2006 06:02:45 -0700, "Buck" <bicyclebuck@gmail.com > wrote:
>I was nearly hit this morning. I was on a two-lane road approaching the
>intersection with a 5 lane road (two lanes each way, one center turning
>lane). I ALWAYS take the lane by moving to the left tire track because
>the road curves to meet the bigger road square.
>
>I was passed in the no-passing zone immediately before the curve. I was
>sure the guy was going to hit the center median. I was right behind him
>at the stop sign and felt compelled to inform him of the danger of the
>situation.
>
>He ignored me.
>
>But he turned into my workplace. I followed him to his parking spot. I
>introduced myself. I asked him politely to be more careful when passing
>cyclists. He put the blame on me. "It was hard to see you since you are
>wearing all black." He spoke these words while staring at my bright
>blue cycling shirt. Perhaps it was the dark black glasses he was
>wearing.
>
>His last words to me were... "I don't know you."
>
>Does this make it ok to run over me?
>
>I think I will discuss this one with the boss.
>
>-Buck
I would find out who the guy is, whether he is higher or lower on the
totem pole first.
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Date: 28 Aug 2006 07:15:40
From: Bob
Subject: Re: @#$%*&^ Coworkers!!!
|
Buck wrote:
>
> His last words to me were... "I don't know you."
>
> Does this make it ok to run over me?
In that context I think, "I don't know you", means, "I refuse to admit
my error".
> I think I will discuss this one with the boss.
Why? It's not work-related so the boss can't really do anything and
given the above his boss already likely knows he never admits mistakes.
On second thought- human nature being what it is- maybe you should just
mention it to your boss so if and when the offending driver tells *his*
boss that, "some nut that says he works here confronted me on company
property", you've already got your version of events out.
Regards,
Bob Hunt
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