Crochety courtesies

The Grill Party, at the risk of being called crotchety (which it has been), would like to again point out some simple courtesies. Courtesies which the party believes, if adhered to, would alleviate some of the horrible stress and tension abounding in our world.

People in customer service, this one is for you. Please look directly at the person you are addressing. The party despairs when someone looks down, away, every direction but at the person to whom the conversation is directed, whether restaurant wait staff who mumble, store clerks who don’t speak clearly, or other representatives of a business who seem to have forgotten that clear, direct, and proper communication is paramount. Be mindful of background noise and other distractions which may cause a problem.

The party went shopping for new shoes one day and was very disturbed to be ignored in the stores. Ignored by those who obviously draw a salary as they were standing behind the counter, or leaning on it, or on their phones, or doing anything but attending to customers. Store managers, please be aware of what your alleged employees are doing, or rather what they are not doing.

The party again points out the incredible simplicity of the car turn signal, the turn signal which continues to decline in use. Perhaps the Russians are behind this lack of utilization of such a beneficial device, their goal to overload the insurance and car repair systems.

The party points out these failings in courtesy to illustrate that such things would never occur at a tailgate. No, all who come by are welcomed, greeted, and offered sustenance. Perhaps that is the solution to the declining politeness and courtesy in society—more tailgating. Ah, but the party can but dream. As always—slow down and grill. DAVID KELLEY

Fort Smith