Pass Me a Beer Please...

So I took my first real trip into San Francisco on the BART on yesterday, and it was quite an amazing trip. I got a little bit of everything going and coming. It was such a beautiful Saturday that I decided to make my way out to the well-known Dolores Park in the Mission District area (a beautiful park by the way). Coming from North Berkeley on the BART it's about a 30-40 minute ride, so there is plenty of time to catch the sights. So as I'm reading my magazine, I realized that today was a jammed packed day for sports in the Bay Area. This would turn my ride from calm to high-energy! Side-note: I must admit coming from Atlanta, the sports fan there are not as enthusiastic as those in the Bay (maybe because there are more teams here). It was Berkeley homecoming and the Oakland A's were in the post season playoffs. This can be a good thing and or bad one depending on the situation. It's a good thing if the area team wins because it's like a huge celebration on the BART. Everyone is cheering, smiles on everyone's faces, and the spirits are high. Bad if the team loses because it's like the world comes to end, or as if someone stole your lucky silver dollar. Going into SF, I got to see the adrenaline pumping and all the fans getting hyped for the game, however the ride coming back was the true test. Thankfully, the Oakland A's had won beating the Detroit Lions 1-0.

It was literally like a party on the Richmond line!! I was literally surrounded my green and gold jerseys (reminded me of my Oakland Raiders game day experience, except they lost), fans shouting, and of course I can't forget...drunk fans!! Unfortunately, I was in the midst of a sea of beer soaked fans. And the killer was that these fans wanted more, and to my surprise there were folks who still had beer left to share. Let me also make mention that I am still somewhat a novice to BART and definitely a neophyte to the sports and fans of the Bay Area, so I am learning as I go. I say this because I was somewhat taken aback when I saw several people partaking in open bottles and cans of beer on the BART, not sure if this is legal ( I don't think so...). And needless to say the guy sitting next to me was still craving another beer, so what does he do...he asks the first person in sight, "Hey man you gotta another beer, I'll give you a few dollars for it..." Within in a matter of seconds this total stranger pulls out another bottle and passes it his way (as if he needed another one)....say it ain't so...I'm sure this is normal behavior, but it's a new experience for me. I can only imagine how the situation could have been different had the A's lost...At least folks were sharing and getting along, nothing wrong with that!

So what's the lesson for today when travelling to the city on a game day...1) Pray for a W and 2) Just pass the beer...

Until next time...Stay tuned for more stories of Zimi's BART and MARTA tales ... Go A's (j/k) :-) #CubsFanAlways

Must be something in the water...

I know you are probably wondering, what is Zimi talking about today! Trust me I had to make this post quick fast and in a hurry, before I didn't believe what I saw.

So they say giving birth is like breathing life into the world.Well on this day the world should be fully stocked with air. So as I was making my way onto campus via the BART, I noticed a lady who was expecting sitting right in front of me. I could tell that she was glowing and in a very happy mood, it was written all over her face. I thought such a beautiful sight (maybe one day) :-). Then to my surprise another woman boarded the BART who was expecting, I figured when does that happen seeing back-to-back pregnant women. These days anything is possible. So my first initial thought was "oh that is so precious...", but that thought would soon begin to dissipate. Fast forward...Soooooo twenty minutes into the trip, (on my car alone) I would encounter 5 PREGNANT women of various ages and backgrounds....I'm thinking two pregnant women, coincidence, BUT 5 within that brief amount of time...CREEPY!! This began to scare me just a little bit. It was as though I had an invisible sign or magnet that drew them into my direction. Was this an indirect sign that my time is coming soon, was someone close to me going to share some joyous news, or was it simply just another day on the BART. I would like to think option two, but who knows these days. Now my other fear was that one or more of the women on the train would go into labor (that would be a sight to see right there). Thank goodness that did not happen, because Lord knows today would not have been the day to play doctor.  I know one thing is for sure life has a funny way of getting a point across. What that point was today is still a mystery, but at least I can say that I witnessed the carrier of life from every age, color, and shade. Best of luck to each of those women!!

You know there is this saying that when you see several cases of something, like the fact that there were several pregnant women on the BART in one car, "there must be something in the water..."


So as I got off the train to head to campus... I had to ask myself is the water really safe to drink?

Welcome to the Wild, Wild West!!

 

Now that I have officially moved to the West Coast, I have now embarked on a new system of transportation...the BART and AC Transit. Let me first start out by saying that both of these systems puts lil ol' Atlanta's MARTA to shame. It's going to be quite and adjustment when I go home to visit during the breaks and holidays. But I digress, since being out in the Bay Area I have began to have great appreciation for the public transportation system. I literally can get to a destination in a very timely and efficient manner. I can get some good reading in and most importantly I have time to relax and reflect.

I will say this, I am sure my experiences will not be any different than when I was in Atlanta, however they will just have an added twist specific to the Bay. So buckle up and enjoy the ride!!

Last Day of MARTA...Reflection Time...

Soooooo today is my last day riding the MARTA (at least until I come back to visit), and on my ride into what is also my last day of work, I had a lot of time to reflect and think. It is not too often that you get to quietly sit in your seat and just simply enjoy the ride. Many folks take for granted those small moments, well I have learned to really savor them.

As I sat in my seat there were mixed feelings of sadness, happiness, heavy hearts, optimism, and high spirits. If I had sat their a little longer, might even have shed a tear (lol). I didn't think that with each day that I get closer to departing that it would be so hard. But, when I think about it I realize that its really one door closing and opening another. I even liken it to saying "see you later" versus "saying goodbye".

Now I know some folks may think I'm silly, or may be even strange, because I actually find the MARTA rather therapeutic. These rides allow me to release energy that is pent up, or that just needs to go. I have read a many books on my train and bus ride to and from work. BUT this is only just the end of the MARTA chapter and the beginning of the BART chapter.

So as they say..."Let the games begin..."

Birth Control and ATL's Next Rap Star...

And I have another story for you today folks. Sometimes I wonder why I did not continue to take MARTA after the serious gas hike back some years ago, needless to say I actually enjoy my daily rides on the bus and train. Now I know it is early in the day and you are probably thinking, "she got a story already?!!" Yep I sure do. This early day segment consists of Birth Control and ATL's "Next Rap Star".

Birth Control
Now while riding the bus or train there are a variety of stories, that one might be privy to while travelling to their respective destinations. Today's was no different. In my honest opinion there are just some things that do not need to be discussed loudly in a public setting. Case in point, on my way in to work this lady felt the need to sit in front of me and talk to her girl (on her cell phone) about her recent doctor's visit. She would go on-and-on about how long the wait was, and then the icing on the cake....check it:

"Girl yes, I am so glad that I am headed home. Waited in that cold a*& office and finally got my Depo-shot. I should be good to go now girl...Yeah cause (some man's name) and I are about to get it in."

OH BOY!!! Wow of all the things that I had to hear in the morning that would be the first....I must give her kudos because she felt comfortable enough to give a play-by-play of her doctor's visit AND what she plan to do afterwards with no shame!! I kid you not if she had only seen my facial expressions it would have been a wrap. And I can't be mad at her, she did take the necessary steps to avoid an unplanned pregnancy, however I have never seen someone so excited that they got it! As they "to each its own".

ATL's Next Rap Star
This next incident was less entertaining...well at least for me. As I was boarding the train at H.E. Holmes, I would hear the normal chatter of folks talking, babies crying, and an occasional humming, But there would be an overbearing sound that seemed to drown all of that out!! I swear I felt like I was live at the Apollo, the only thing missing was Mr. Sandman. This young man was rapping his little heart out. And so I figure he's going to stop once the train begins to move....oh no, not only does he not stop but he gets louder with each stop. Even with my headphones at the loudest bearable sound this guy was going in!! Can we say "Turnt Up!!" So the little reading that I did get in, I will probably have to reread just to make sure I understood that section.

And of course no one wants to tell him to be quiet, everyone just gives him these dirty looks. Let me tell you this guy was rapping so hard you would have thought he was auditioning for a record deal with ARISTA or DEF JAM. So let's be clear, this guy was no Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Talib Kweli, Lil Wayne or even Drake, it was just BAD (not the good kind either). Lord knows that was the longest 10 minute ride of my life. But I bet you this, I would not be surprised if I didn't see or hear him on Worldstar Hip Hop as MARTA's Next Rap Star!!

As I say all the time I couldn't make this stuff up even if I wanted too...Until the next trip!! #MARTA-BART-Tales

Cougars and Locs...

Now I can already imagine the comments that will surface just from the title alone. But there was no other way to title it but to be direct and to the point. Today's post takes place on my travel home from work. I think I have come to realize that when I deviate from my normal routine that's when things happen "out of the ordinary".

Cougars
So as I made my way to the MARTA, I was talking with one of my aunts (using my earpiece) and sharing some awesome news with her. And for those that know me, they know that I am very focused when riding the MARTA, meaning I'm usually not smiling, but rest assured there is usually nothing wrong. I typically structure my face this way to avoid conversation from passing strangers [I'm beginning to notice this is attracting more attention versus the individuals not bothering me]. Needless to say, a gentleman approached me as I was finishing up my conversation, and so it begins. After hanging up the phone, the gentleman would approach me and give me a compliment regarding my locs (not complaining, but if I had a dollar for every compliment I get about my hair I would be set for life!!). I thanked him and went about my business as usual. However, the minute I stepped on the train and took my seat, this same gentleman would proceed to have a conversation with me. I figured I would be nice so I entertained it, until I learned of this "young man's" age. He was obviously spitting some game, but this was a new encounter. Why you say? Well during the "game spitting" he would mention that he attends Morehouse College (red flag)...uh oh...This would have been cool 10 YEARS AGO, but now oh boy (keep in mind I am one month shy of 32)!! I would literally become speechless, partly because he was an attractive and intelligent sounding brotha who I would have never thought was 21. Well I will just say this we had a very entertaining conversation, that ended once he got to his stop. Not saying I turned into a cougar that day, but it did get me to thinking....

Things that make you go hmmm....



Janet Jackson (47) and her 37-year old husband Wissam Al Mana

 Locs
Now this next incident would happen not too long after my "cougar" encounter. In addition to riding the MARTA train I must also take the MARTA bus. So while waiting for the "165" a young man comes up to me and says "do you do locs?" I replied, "no, but my loctician can and I can give you her information." So without really thinking I would tell him my loctian's name and where she is located. The next statement made nearly knocked me off my seat. He would say, "so you going to take me there, I'm from Cali and I don't know my way around here..." And with the quickness, I gave him her business card and told him he could contact her directly. Who just asks a total stranger to take them to get their hair done?? That was truly the icing on the cake! I was too through...lol

Locs on the train...

 Like I always say, I couldn't even make up these stories up...even if I tried! #MARTA-BART-Tales

Singing and Dancing...

You know I always wonder what it is that motivates someone to sing and dance on the bus, or even worse so close to the tracks at the train station. During my morning trip into downtown ATL and my return trip I would encounter three different individuals that just knew they were the winner of "The Voice", "American Idol", and "So You Think You Can Dance". Now don't get me wrong do your thang if you can actually sing and dance, but these folks were not the business!! Now there was one particular case in which the guy was singing Miguel's new joint "How Many". For my folks that are familiar with this song, one might would've had wanted to ask this gentleman "How many drinks did YOU have this morning?"  And to make matters worse this dude was inches away from falling into the tracks. All I could was shake my head, because Lords knows I did not need to see that type of accident go down that early in the AM.

I kid you not folks, I couldn't make this stuff up even if I wanted too, trust me!! I have come to realize that singing and dancing is just a part of riding the train and/or bus. But I must admit these individuals who do sing and dance are actually quite brave and willing. Brave because they are clearly putting on a show in front of total strangers in a very public space, and willing because they are not getting paid for this AT ALL!! To each is own!

Maybe these folks think they will be the next Tyrese....mmmmm don't think so....but at least they made a valiant effort....

Until next time... #MARTAandBARTTales

A Film Worth Seeing..."Fruitvale Station"

Seeing that this blog is about my MARTA and BART travels, I wanted to throw a small curve ball in the mix. In addition to this blog I also have a movie/film blog Black Savant Cinema where I give film reviews, feature new upcoming films, etc. So I was a bit torn about this specific post because it deals with an actual situation that took place at the Fruitvale Station (a stop on the BART) in Oakland, California. But what the heck, I can make it work!!

New Years Day 2009 would be a day to remember for the family of 22-year old Oscar Grant III. Fruitvale Station is an independent drama film (directed by USC graduate Ryan Coogler)  based on the true story of Oscar Grant, the young man who was fatally shot and killed by BART police offices at the California Fruitvale transit station. 

(Fruitvale Station in Oakland, CA)

Even before hitting theaters this film has already garnered success winning the Grand Jury Prize and the Audience Award for U.S. dramatic film at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival and winner of Best First Film at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival. So let's just its a MUST SEE on my list!! It is stories like this that open your eyes and mind to the jaw dropping events that take place at your local transit station. 

Check out the trailer below:

Even though this was not my personal experience, I felt it was still appropriate to feature on the blog. It's a story that should not be forgotten, and one that tells a heart-felt tale of the importance of family and the rarity of second chances.

So stay tuned Fruitvale Station is schedule to be released in theaters on July 26th, 2013.

Books and Headphones...

AM Ride:

Once again MARTA does not fail me by providing my entertainment for the day. Now my trip to campus was actually more quiet than my trip home. As I boarded the train at HE Holmes, I would take my corner seat and open my book to read. And you know that feeling when you feel like someone has invaded your space...BINGO that's what I felt. Seated right behind was a lady (probably in her late 30s/early 40s) leaning over her seat over my shoulder, it was if she was reading along with me. Now grant it I know the book is interesting (hence why I am reading it), but "BACK BACK!" So as I looked back to hopefully see the woman lean back she does the exact opposite. As a matter of fact she proceeds to tell me "Ma'am I wasn't finished reading that page..." REALLY?!?! I guess I had interrupted her flow, my bad!! So what did I have to do, close the book so neither she can read or me!! Why Me?

PM Ride:

Now the ride home was even more interesting....As I boarded the Georgia State station I would be greeted by a female police officer standing front and center. I guess they beefed up security just in case we had a "naked gymnast" of our own. And I kid you not, we didn't have a naked man, but we did have "America's Non-Singing Idol" on board. And sista girl really thought that she could blow...hot air...Even with my headphones she was still louder than my music. And after two threats from the police officer she finally calmed down, well actually she began to hum. But thank God she was getting off soon because I would have literally lost my mind!

So what did I learn today...We can't possibly share reading a book...and...Soundproof headphones along with an ALEVE are a MUST!!

Trust me when I tell I can't make these stories up...#marta-bart-tales

Just Had to Share...Naked Gymnast on BART

Now here is a story that I probably would have fell out if I had actually witnessed for my own eyes. But I just had to share, because it's things like this that just make your ride on public transportation that more entertaining!!

24-year old acrobat Yeiner Garizabalo made his acrobat debut in a San Francisco train station in front of many who just wanted to get from point A to B! Garizabalo who by the way was all the way live naked climbed on top of the turnstiles and proceeded to perform a number of gymnastic stunts. Can imagine having to be "privy" (sarcastically) to that show. The actual event actually took place on May 10, at the 16th Street Mission Station, but was uploaded to YouTube on this week.

See the video below:

Let me just say, I do not know what I would have done if this man came anywhere near! God forbid he even get close enough to where he touches me!! Can you just imagine some strange man, let alone a naked man, jumping on you?!! I would probably have a fit!! SMH!! For more of the story click NAKED MAN HERE !!

As I have said before you never know what you may see or hear while riding the MARTA or BART!! #marta-bart-tales

Summer MARTA Travels...

Since I have started back taking MARTA regularly, I find it very interesting the many different people that I meet during my travels. On today’s journey this gentleman sat next to me on the train (mind you there were plenty of open seat available) and proceeded to give me a history lesson. He would talk about everything from Islam, to John Henrik Clark, Egypt, Kemet, the Bible, God, to making sure I do my part in helping the Black community. It was actually quite interesting :-)! But the icing on the cake was he made sure to tell me to stay focused, stay motivated, and keep up the good work!! He would also (genuinely) tell me, “I know you are going to do great things!!” Amazing how total strangers see the good in you!! #BART/MARTATales

Welcome to BART & MARTA Tales!!

Welcome to BART & MARTA Tales!!

As someone who is riding the MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transport Authority) regularly now and will soon be riding the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) I figure I would share my travels with you all! On any given day many things can happen from good to bad...crazy to mild!!

Thanks to a good friend/professor/mentor, I figured I would share these stories with the masses. It is amazing the people that you run into and the stories that develop. I figure it can serve a multipurpose, to educate, entertain, and potentially bring awareness to what goes on a simple mode of transportation.

So come join me!! Trust me you are in for a treat!!