If anyone thinks that Uber is anything other than another corporation seeking high profits and political influence, I would strongly reconsider that position. I know they like to position themselves as some kind of self-styled humanitarian organization, steadfastly dedicated to assisting both the individual and planet by, one, offering work opportunities, and two, reducing carbon emissions by providing people transportation alternatives. In other words, they present themselves as a benign company out to save the world while simultaneously giving all those bad cabbies the beating we deserve. Clearly they have achieved the latter, and now they are focusing upon their own independent operators. Is anyone surprised? I for one, am not.
I guess it might be considered old fashioned but I believe communication, especially written communication, to be sacred. Given that thought I begin this commentary concerning Uber's letter writing with a poem by Robert Graves (1895-1985), his "History of the Word."
Uber appears, at both first, second and third glance, to be little interested in either history or written propriety. Why care when you don't have to be, is seemingly their operational attitude. And my response to that is simple, that caring is the one and only correct approach, something unfortunately lost upon the majority; and certainly, minus doubt, upon rapacious corporations solely concerned with equity and remuneration. It is not a good situation, blind to life as it truly is, thinking money and money only the core sustenance for all individuals, ignoring any and all competing imperatives.
History of the Word
The Word that in the beginning was the Word
For two or three, but elsewhere spoke unheard,
Found words to interpret it, which for a season
Prevailed until ruled out by Law and Reason
Which, by a lax interpretation cursed,
In Laws and Reasons logically dispersed;
These, in their turn, found they could do no better
Then fall to Letters and each claim a letter.
In the beginning then, the Word alone,
But now the various tongue-tied Lexicon
In perfect impotence the day nearing
When every ear shall lose its sense of hearing
And every mind by knowledge be close-shuttered---
But two or three, that hear the Word uttered.
You might remember that the Seattle City Council voted 8-0 to allow for-hire drivers (Uber, Lyft, flat-rate, taxi) to form legal representational unions. This was, or is, the first effort of this kind in the nation, given that these kinds of drivers are usually considered independent contractors, and thus exempt from union organization or other related labor activities. To that end, both Uber and its highly influential and powerful surrogate, the United States Chamber of Commerce, have objected to Seattle's effort to balance the labor playing field.
Now it has been reported that the US Chamber of Commerce have just filed a suit against the City of Seattle in the United District Court for the Western District of Washington. Their point of view upon unionization is clearly expressed in the opinion that the new ordinance "will burden innovation, increase prices, and reduce quality and services for consumers." That this statement can be construed as self-serving should be obvious.
The two following quotes are from Amanda Eversole, the US Chamber of Commerce President of their "Center for Advanced Technology and Innovation.":
"This ordinance threatens the ability of not just of Seattle, but of every community across the country, to grow with and benefit from our evolving economy."
It is clear that the Chamber of Commerce fears, that if successful, union organization of Uber and Lyft drivers will, like a virus, infect similar workers across the country.
Another similar quote states:
"Technology companies are leading the charge when it comes to empowering people with the flexibility and choice that comes with being your own boss, and that is something to be championed, not stifled."
One problem with this expressed sentiment is that Uber drivers are not their own boss in any true sense, given that Uber at any time can sever drivers from Uber's operational umbilical cord minus warning or legal recourse. If they were their "own boss," they certainly wouldn't be firing themselves. Is Eversole perpetuating a fantasy? I will let you and the courts decide that one.
Prior to the Chamber's actions, Seattle's Uber general manager, Brooke Steger, wrote a letter to Seattle's Director of Finance and Administrative Services, Fred Podesta, stating in part, "four core principles to ensure fairness in decisions that will impact the livelihood of thousands." That this letter was truly directed toward Council-member Mike O'Brien and the other Seattle City Council members is transparently clear.
The "four principles" are as follows:
---Every affected driver should have the right to vote.
---Every affected driver should be fully informed before voting.
---Every vote should be fairly counted.
---FAS should look to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) rules and case law.
Steger also says, representing Uber's official stance that
"We look forward to engaging in the upcoming rule making to ensure drivers can make a fully informed choice about representation."
What this statement doesn't address is why does contention amongst the drivers exist in the first place? Is all this just some kind of plot to foil Uber's efforts to transform the labor world into something benefiting every worker? Uber seems to be saying that, with that nasty Seattle City Council not understanding Uber's corporate goodness. Why every new Uber driver receives a $100.00 bonus after their first ten trips. Isn't that just and fair and humane?
One might say of course that it was the City Council who created this whole mess by killing its initial ordinance governing Uber and other TNC companies. And the individual perhaps most responsible for the situation we are now dealing with locally, Mayor Ed Murray, has, so far, refused to sign into law the City Council Union Bill, saying it would be "burdensome administrating the law.'' Any less than the financial burden all of us are now carrying since his Uber intervention? I doubt that.
But there is someone who does know personally the implications demonstrated by Uber and the US Chamber of Commerce, and that is my "Uber insider," telling me Uber has been lobbying him for months to not support unionization. He says that full-timers like him serve 80 percent of Uber business, meaning that he, and others like him, should decide whether to organize or not, not the part-timers who have little to no true investment in their Uber future." He did say that he has, now over five months later, finally received his for-hire driving license. It also allows him to drive a taxi. Lucky him!
One point concerning this Seattle effort to allow union organization is extremely clear. Like many other labor efforts over the past 150 years of American worker history, management will not give in without a protracted fight, high-priced lawyers replacing thugs and "bought" police to enforce owner interests. Anyone historically familiar with owner and management statements will recognize the sentiments expressed by Eversole and Steger, nothing new spoken beneath the "Labor Sun."
One would think their rhetoric would change but clearly it hasn't, disinformation the same now as in 1915 as it was also in Catherine the Great's dialogue concerning Russia's serfs. Beware, brothers and sisters, is all I can say. At least Catherine left the world a great art museum. Was the abuse and death of millions worth all that beautiful art residing in the Hermitage along the Neva River? Certainly not! Is Uber and Lyft convenience, and a few dollars saved, worth the pain and suffering of countless independent operators? I don't think so. Do you?
I leave you with this quote taken from a New York Times article concerning oil prices, taken from the Tuesday, March 8th edition:
"In commodity circles, low prices cure low prices, just like high prices cure high prices," said Jason Schenker, founder of Prestige Economics, a market research firm.
What the hell does that mean? Whatever it means, I know it applies to Uber and their operating philosophy. Run for the taxi hills is all I can say!
Please note: The quotes and some of the information included in this posting was taken from articles written by Taylor Soper, Geekwire writer and columnist. See his website for many original articles concerning the transportation industry. He had the initial scoop concerning the letter. Good for him
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Old Home Week At First & University---4 Seasons Stand
Being at this "hack business" a long time I know all the "ins and outs" of what makes successful taxi. As my first two years featured me as a dispatch-less independent cabbie gadabout, I learned everything "I never wanted to" concerning working the hotel stands---the good and bad and the completely insane. So when my night driver Raymond (first behind the taxi wheel in 1973) told me that good things were happening at the Four Seasons Hotel I took note.
Understanding the taxi guide book page by page and knowing the percentages of "what does and doesn't work," I decided to try the stand early Saturday morning. Raymond told me that their doormen told him they preferred Yellow Cab so I thought I had little to lose, hoping for the best. The only real complicating factor when committing to a stand is whether to take a bell instead of just waiting the hotel out. Instantaneously getting first up bolstered my spirits, backing the thought I was making the right decision but of course when it comes to taxi, nothing will ever be simple or straightforward. It just doesn't work that way, taxi is not, and never will be, a straight line.
After sitting a mere five minutes, that choice was provided to me by the taxi universe, offering me a call that was supposed to be just one block away, at the 1500 block of 1st Avenue, with me waiting at the end of the 1400 block. Weighting the percentages I accepted the bell but finding the actual address provided, 1538 1st Avenue, questionable. Before leaving the stand I called the telephone number, confirming what I thought was true: it instead being a First Avenue SOUTH address, a strip club known as "Dream Girls," with the waiting dancer named someone who had two weeks previously tipped me 10 dollars. Armed with that info, and after being told A__ was waiting, I took off, picked up and delivered her downtown, and yes, another 10 dollar tip, meaning I got twenty for 15 minutes total time. Any cabbie would and will take that.
Rushing back I again found myself first up at the Four Seasons, arriving in time to observe a Yellow cab being loaded up with luggage. Seeing it was a different driver from the one who had been sitting behind me, I guessed that the hotel had just dished out two consecutive Sea-Tac runs. Well, that is just how it goes but hey, it was still early, and why not a third Sea-Tac coming out the door? Well, why not was right, two hours later and "no nothing" coming from either hotel or dispatch I found myself stalled in that too familiar "taxi-no-mans-land," slowly losing my mind. But, I must tell you, that doesn't mean I wasn't entertained, as various cabbies drove by, nodding or saying hello, 1st and University located in the center of "taxi-land;" and I was sitting on a well known cabbie island. Unfortunately there were no coconut palms.
Because it was ME sitting there, many were curious if "something was happening" and whether they should join me. Jim, a well known "Queen Anne Player," someone I once shouted at, was clearly surprised to see 478 sitting there, flashing a friendly grin and inquiry. "No, not here," I told him, me and Jim patching up that conflict months ago, hard to remain angry with a fellow taxi "blood-brother."
Kaz, the High School math teacher, someone who had grumbled at me over 20 years ago, drove up in a new Kia Soul, saying he was still driving but "there is nothing, there is nothing." I don't even remember why he got mad all those years ago but whatever it was it was put aside and we have been friends ever since.
Most surprising was Bill, the former Yellow superintendent who twice drove by servicing Uber fares. Somewhat embarrassed, he yelled out, "If you can't beat them, join them!" after I called out "Bill!" Bill would have been my 478 day driver if Tom hadn't committed to the car first. Bill is a longtime cabbie, someone with more years than me in the business. Just shows what is happening out here, no business taking its toll upon the best of us.
Finally two half-drunk friends walk up from the street and I got the "hell-out-of-there." If the new call center hadn't screwed up the address, I would had gotten my Sea-Tac run. Oh well, that is just how it goes. The two guys went to two destinations, with me getting another twenty dollar bill for the effort.
Overall, the day went pretty well, later in the afternoon getting to back to back sixty dollar runs, one to Sea-Tac; and the other, a Hopelink run to Everett from the Northgate; just another taxi day when patience and persistence is required. If you don't stick with it, you only lose, never gaining. That has always been the case regardless of the business environment, meaning while much has changed, nothing has changed, the taxi roller-coaster being just that, you the cabbie holding on for "dear-life!" Always, welcome to taxi! Ha Ha Ha!
I wrote the following poem about sitting on stands nearly 27 years ago. It is about the original (at least to me) Space Needle cab stand. It was usually a real winner, considering that the Space Needle was, and remains, a tourist magnet. The poem itself is twice published, something rare for me given my fear of submitting. It was once found in a small Saint Croix, American Virgin Islands newspaper; and in my second poetry volume, "The Greyer Elements." No title. Sometimes with title-less poems the first line is the tile. Call this anything you want but truly call it realistic, real taxi minus embellishments.
I'd rather be first up on nothing
than fifth-up or worse
on no chance whatsoever
on a dead Sunday
sitting in late Autumn sun
knowing eventually
getting a fare somewhere, short
or otherwise,
(contrary to rumor, no cabbie ever died
upon a stand)
so I'll enjoy myself reading, writing,
or plainly doing nothing,
something I do best,
watching tourists idle by,
letting this day take its due course,
minus my usual frantic insistence.
Reading this over I realize the poem requires an important footnote. Taxi at that time was a bit of a lark because I had a very good paying "day" job. As I have said, currently all my income comes from taxi. Sitting two hours on a stand, like I did this past Saturday, is no joke for me now. I gotta make the money and I gotta make it now. It is something that separates me from all the (they have never driven a taxi) industry advisers who are currently assisting in various ways. They know nothing about "bleeding to death" hours upon a stand. It is a particular kind of torture, a suffering I do not recommend unless of course you want to understand fully and completely the taxi experience. Hell with that!
Direct Deposits Safeguards
Talking to the individual in charge. I was assured that Puget Sound Dispatch had contacted the banks and set up relationships. One thing that is truly important is to make sure ALL your information provided PSD is correct, including the routing number. The routing number can be found on your check, not your pre-printed deposit slip. I personally will be doing my next turn and the direct deposit experience next Sunday. Monday I will then go to my bank to ensure the money is there. I suggest you do the same. And use commonsense, saving all receipts.
Why Me, Taxi Lord, Why Me?
My only excuse for letting this woman in my cab Sunday night is that I was half-sick and coughing when her sister put her in the cab to do a commonplace "round-trip to the store" run. I noticed she was tilting a bit side to side which should have warned me to her true state. It is somewhat unusual when a passenger can't tell you clearly where they want to go, but she was having trouble communicating, losing her temper.
Arriving, she went directly into the store, where, a couple of minutes later, I observed her standing at the counter where suddenly, losing her balance, falling into a display case, cutting her mouth. Rushing to her assistance, she was "dead-weight" and fairly unresponsive. Making it worse, no one would help and somehow it was all my fault. This was all happening in White Center where a sizable demographic is afflicted by the lingering affects of poverty, meaning many have been driven nuts by their lack of opportunity and education. Some shouted. Some wanted to fight me. It was insane but finally a kid did help me get her off the floor and out the door but not to the car where she again collapsed to the most available surface. Finally another local ruffian helped me get her to the cab door. All this was occurring while I was talking to her sister on the telephone. It was totally nuts! If this was a medical emergency it was beyond local comprehension, everyone holding tainted perspectives.
Once getting her into the cab, I then had the problem of getting her out. What made this both appalling and amazing was her personal volition, sometimes cooperating and then not, either falling limp or actively putting up a fight. It all ended when, with the sister and neighbor pulling on her arms, and me, pushing with my legs from behind, extracted her from the cab. Last time I saw her she was on the parking lot asphalt, the sister pleading with her to get up. I tell you it might have been the hardest twenty dollar bill I have earned. And what was the cause? I sum it was to a combination of barbiturates, alcohol and a bad mixture of insanity dosed with immaturity. Another interesting dimension was that she seemed to be doing all this in part to receive attention. What a goddamn mess!
Understanding the taxi guide book page by page and knowing the percentages of "what does and doesn't work," I decided to try the stand early Saturday morning. Raymond told me that their doormen told him they preferred Yellow Cab so I thought I had little to lose, hoping for the best. The only real complicating factor when committing to a stand is whether to take a bell instead of just waiting the hotel out. Instantaneously getting first up bolstered my spirits, backing the thought I was making the right decision but of course when it comes to taxi, nothing will ever be simple or straightforward. It just doesn't work that way, taxi is not, and never will be, a straight line.
After sitting a mere five minutes, that choice was provided to me by the taxi universe, offering me a call that was supposed to be just one block away, at the 1500 block of 1st Avenue, with me waiting at the end of the 1400 block. Weighting the percentages I accepted the bell but finding the actual address provided, 1538 1st Avenue, questionable. Before leaving the stand I called the telephone number, confirming what I thought was true: it instead being a First Avenue SOUTH address, a strip club known as "Dream Girls," with the waiting dancer named someone who had two weeks previously tipped me 10 dollars. Armed with that info, and after being told A__ was waiting, I took off, picked up and delivered her downtown, and yes, another 10 dollar tip, meaning I got twenty for 15 minutes total time. Any cabbie would and will take that.
Rushing back I again found myself first up at the Four Seasons, arriving in time to observe a Yellow cab being loaded up with luggage. Seeing it was a different driver from the one who had been sitting behind me, I guessed that the hotel had just dished out two consecutive Sea-Tac runs. Well, that is just how it goes but hey, it was still early, and why not a third Sea-Tac coming out the door? Well, why not was right, two hours later and "no nothing" coming from either hotel or dispatch I found myself stalled in that too familiar "taxi-no-mans-land," slowly losing my mind. But, I must tell you, that doesn't mean I wasn't entertained, as various cabbies drove by, nodding or saying hello, 1st and University located in the center of "taxi-land;" and I was sitting on a well known cabbie island. Unfortunately there were no coconut palms.
Because it was ME sitting there, many were curious if "something was happening" and whether they should join me. Jim, a well known "Queen Anne Player," someone I once shouted at, was clearly surprised to see 478 sitting there, flashing a friendly grin and inquiry. "No, not here," I told him, me and Jim patching up that conflict months ago, hard to remain angry with a fellow taxi "blood-brother."
Kaz, the High School math teacher, someone who had grumbled at me over 20 years ago, drove up in a new Kia Soul, saying he was still driving but "there is nothing, there is nothing." I don't even remember why he got mad all those years ago but whatever it was it was put aside and we have been friends ever since.
Most surprising was Bill, the former Yellow superintendent who twice drove by servicing Uber fares. Somewhat embarrassed, he yelled out, "If you can't beat them, join them!" after I called out "Bill!" Bill would have been my 478 day driver if Tom hadn't committed to the car first. Bill is a longtime cabbie, someone with more years than me in the business. Just shows what is happening out here, no business taking its toll upon the best of us.
Finally two half-drunk friends walk up from the street and I got the "hell-out-of-there." If the new call center hadn't screwed up the address, I would had gotten my Sea-Tac run. Oh well, that is just how it goes. The two guys went to two destinations, with me getting another twenty dollar bill for the effort.
Overall, the day went pretty well, later in the afternoon getting to back to back sixty dollar runs, one to Sea-Tac; and the other, a Hopelink run to Everett from the Northgate; just another taxi day when patience and persistence is required. If you don't stick with it, you only lose, never gaining. That has always been the case regardless of the business environment, meaning while much has changed, nothing has changed, the taxi roller-coaster being just that, you the cabbie holding on for "dear-life!" Always, welcome to taxi! Ha Ha Ha!
I wrote the following poem about sitting on stands nearly 27 years ago. It is about the original (at least to me) Space Needle cab stand. It was usually a real winner, considering that the Space Needle was, and remains, a tourist magnet. The poem itself is twice published, something rare for me given my fear of submitting. It was once found in a small Saint Croix, American Virgin Islands newspaper; and in my second poetry volume, "The Greyer Elements." No title. Sometimes with title-less poems the first line is the tile. Call this anything you want but truly call it realistic, real taxi minus embellishments.
I'd rather be first up on nothing
than fifth-up or worse
on no chance whatsoever
on a dead Sunday
sitting in late Autumn sun
knowing eventually
getting a fare somewhere, short
or otherwise,
(contrary to rumor, no cabbie ever died
upon a stand)
so I'll enjoy myself reading, writing,
or plainly doing nothing,
something I do best,
watching tourists idle by,
letting this day take its due course,
minus my usual frantic insistence.
Reading this over I realize the poem requires an important footnote. Taxi at that time was a bit of a lark because I had a very good paying "day" job. As I have said, currently all my income comes from taxi. Sitting two hours on a stand, like I did this past Saturday, is no joke for me now. I gotta make the money and I gotta make it now. It is something that separates me from all the (they have never driven a taxi) industry advisers who are currently assisting in various ways. They know nothing about "bleeding to death" hours upon a stand. It is a particular kind of torture, a suffering I do not recommend unless of course you want to understand fully and completely the taxi experience. Hell with that!
Direct Deposits Safeguards
Talking to the individual in charge. I was assured that Puget Sound Dispatch had contacted the banks and set up relationships. One thing that is truly important is to make sure ALL your information provided PSD is correct, including the routing number. The routing number can be found on your check, not your pre-printed deposit slip. I personally will be doing my next turn and the direct deposit experience next Sunday. Monday I will then go to my bank to ensure the money is there. I suggest you do the same. And use commonsense, saving all receipts.
Why Me, Taxi Lord, Why Me?
My only excuse for letting this woman in my cab Sunday night is that I was half-sick and coughing when her sister put her in the cab to do a commonplace "round-trip to the store" run. I noticed she was tilting a bit side to side which should have warned me to her true state. It is somewhat unusual when a passenger can't tell you clearly where they want to go, but she was having trouble communicating, losing her temper.
Arriving, she went directly into the store, where, a couple of minutes later, I observed her standing at the counter where suddenly, losing her balance, falling into a display case, cutting her mouth. Rushing to her assistance, she was "dead-weight" and fairly unresponsive. Making it worse, no one would help and somehow it was all my fault. This was all happening in White Center where a sizable demographic is afflicted by the lingering affects of poverty, meaning many have been driven nuts by their lack of opportunity and education. Some shouted. Some wanted to fight me. It was insane but finally a kid did help me get her off the floor and out the door but not to the car where she again collapsed to the most available surface. Finally another local ruffian helped me get her to the cab door. All this was occurring while I was talking to her sister on the telephone. It was totally nuts! If this was a medical emergency it was beyond local comprehension, everyone holding tainted perspectives.
Once getting her into the cab, I then had the problem of getting her out. What made this both appalling and amazing was her personal volition, sometimes cooperating and then not, either falling limp or actively putting up a fight. It all ended when, with the sister and neighbor pulling on her arms, and me, pushing with my legs from behind, extracted her from the cab. Last time I saw her she was on the parking lot asphalt, the sister pleading with her to get up. I tell you it might have been the hardest twenty dollar bill I have earned. And what was the cause? I sum it was to a combination of barbiturates, alcohol and a bad mixture of insanity dosed with immaturity. Another interesting dimension was that she seemed to be doing all this in part to receive attention. What a goddamn mess!
Tuesday, February 23, 2016
No Time---Rapid Fire Taxi News
Only fellow cabbies will understand that adding a mere part of one additional shift is enough to upset your personal schedule, because that is what is happening to me since I took over YC 478. Since my night driver calls off on Mondays, my brief insertion in the cab impacts my entire week, requiring more sleep, and most importantly for what you are reading, a day to two day delay in composition and publication. I tell passengers and others that I don't have time to drive taxi, that I am too busy but since it is my sole income source for the moment, here I am, and continuing until I am somewhere else. Of course that means the ending of this blog but I never meant it to be a personal version of an expanding universe. I have had enough of the taxi world. I am ready for another planet.
Uber Driver Report Continued
About 3 weeks ago my Uber friend called me back, again on a Saturday night. While I find it all interesting, it is difficult to take down notes while negotiating a taxi and make money doing it. He did want me to say that his inspection took place immediately, finding my report about delays erroneous. He did say that he remained without a valid for-hire license. What is interesting about this is that I got my permanent renewal license last week, meaning it took about 3 weeks total to process all of the paperwork, check out my background and issuing my license. Why then is it taking 5 or more months (if not an entire year) for Uber and Lyft to finish their for-hire license processing? I have alerted the City regulatory authorities. We will see how they respond, or not. My friend did report that his minimum Uber fare translates down to $2.45 per trip, which means if he gets 5 minimum fares in one hour he nets $12.25 cents. Of course the usual Seattle taxi minimum is $5.00, equaling times five fares into $25.00, meaning Uber drivers are making half of what I do.
Another part of that slow Uber processing are the background checks. Per the incident in Kalamazoo, Michigan, it means that even if the guy's record had not been clean, how quickly would they have had known? Months, years? What clearly Uber and Lyft appears to be doing is putting drivers on the streets before they know they are qualified to be there. Does this mean that every Uber and Lyft driver is an unanswered question? I will let you answer that.
BYG No More
Yellow, once known as the BYG (Broadway-Yellow-Greytop) Co-op, is now known as Yellow Fleet. This is a new legal definition.
To Tow or Not
When a friend's broken down Yellow Cab was left sitting at the train station, I discovered a new, unbeknown reality: drivers must now pay for their own tow and deduct the cost from their lease. Two potential problems with this, especially if you don't have a credit card. One, you must have the cash on hand, and two, a simple tow within Seattle is okay but what happens if, after a long fare, say to Portland, Oregon, your taxi breaks down? The driver would have to pay for a $500-1000. or more tow. This arrangement has to be given more thought. At the very least everyone should be receiving a fleet-wide notification.
Also this sounds like a new contractual agreement. Something needs to be put into writing.
Puget Sound Dispatching Direct Depositing
A new arrangement PSD is beginning March 1st is having our processed charges deposited directly into our back accounts. Two important questions. Can a driver, uncomfortable with giving out personal info, opt out? The other is what happens if PSD somehow loses your deposit, with your bank never receiving the transaction? What is the PSD backup plan? It would make sense to ensure that some safeguards are in place.
Last Tuesday Meeting With Teamsters 117
Last Tuesday I met with Teamsters officials about their opposition to HB 2733, a bill that might have lowered taxi insurance rates state-wide. They said it it was a matter of not lessening local authority.
One area I think we have some disagreement is the Seattle mayor's recent Uber decisions. Teamsters said Mayor Murray saved the local taxi industry by getting Uber to drop their state-wide referendum drive switching regulatory authority from the City of Seattle and King Country to the State of Washington. It is difficult to see how what once was a limit of 250 Uber cars to what is now estimated to be 10-14 thousand Uber operators as a victory for local taxi? If you needed to understand just why Yellow has dissolved into its present state, you have your answer.
One strong positive was the reopening of lines of communication and cooperation. This will be necessary if and when we, the drivers and single owners of the Seattle and King County taxi industry form some version of taxi union/taxi trade association. Teamsters support and backing and experience will be essential toward our ultimate success.
I Saw It
When coming back from Mexico, I saw the new Yellow taxi lot at 107th and Meyers Way South from the air as we made our final landing approach. It was hard to miss, all those bright yellow cars.
New Call Center
They are getting better. Yes, small mistakes at times do occur but they are eager to get it right. Clearly they are taking a "crash-course" in everything taxi. I can tell they are quickly learning both the taxi good and the bad. Good luck and best wishes to them.
Poverty
The older gentleman waved to me from his apartment building doorway. "I am hungry," he said, wanting to go to a restaurant at 12th S. and S. Jackson. He asked how much and I told him a million dollars but finally agreed to five dollars. Arriving, he tightly gripped his 20 dollars bill, not letting it go until I gave him his fifteen dollars in change. I showed him my wallet and he made a snatching motion. We both smiled. Poverty! and the human condition.
Concerning Taxi, Is Everything Backward?
When I took over YC 478, I bought new set of snow tires for the winter season. Instead of having them installed by the tire shop, I had the Yellow shop put them on. Well I am shocked to report that I was told, when taking 478 in to have the tires rotated and getting an alignment, that the tires were put on backward, causing some unnecessary tread wear. I have yet to determine whether my warranty has been destroyed by the mistake. Why is always the question. Why did the simple become something far different? Nothing like taxi is all I can say.
Tow Truck Sharks Swimming in Seattle
Sunday I got this call to the 1400 block of Alaskan Way (the waterfront) and found these distressed folks (visiting from Moses Lake) who just had their car towed away. Having parked in front of the Seattle Antique Market, they failed to heed the signs that Gary's Westside Towing would haul their car away. An important note is that Seattle's Puget Sound waterfront is both a popular tourist destination and undergoing many construction projects thus limiting parking. People like the country bumpkins I took to the tow yard have no idea about the predatory towing environment prevalent in Seattle over the past 30 years, shocked to discover that Westside Towing would, could and can charge them $435.00 for their errant parking violation. Listening to their pleading over the telephone, I was outraged by what I was hearing. The towing dispatcher even told them, in a fit of anger, that fine, they could wait until Monday to pick up their car. I called 911 and requested that the SPD meet us at the tow yard. First told that this was a "civil matter," I was put on hold, then amazingly the police non-emergency officer hung up on me. All this was complicated by the fact they didn't have a credit card with them to pay the outrageous fee, never thinking that something like this could happen to them.
Long and short of all this is that I had to take them to a Western Union office where they waited for the money to be wired. Once they had the cash in hand they called me back and I took them back once again to the tow yard. I told them to file a complaint with the City of Seattle. What appears to be true is that multiple cars were towed at about the same time Sunday afternoon. Something about this doesn't appear to be right. Are they using spotters to call the towing company? Are the signs not clearly displayed? Is this tow truck ballet occurring every weekend? I personally will contact the City of Seattle and tell them to check it out. Somebody has to take some responsibility for this. This is no way to treat Seattle visitors. Even if the tourist dumbbells are parking in the wrong places, how is this response reasonable? Is this how this so-called famously liberal city treats the innocent, because, believe me, if you had met the two sisters and their children, that is how you would have described them, as innocents. Criminals? The only thing criminal is how they were treated. The tow truck dispatcher told me they were operating totally within legal parameters. I believe him but that still doesn't make right and just and moral, taking advantage of simple mistakes. Where is the malice is all I can say?
Uber Driver Report Continued
About 3 weeks ago my Uber friend called me back, again on a Saturday night. While I find it all interesting, it is difficult to take down notes while negotiating a taxi and make money doing it. He did want me to say that his inspection took place immediately, finding my report about delays erroneous. He did say that he remained without a valid for-hire license. What is interesting about this is that I got my permanent renewal license last week, meaning it took about 3 weeks total to process all of the paperwork, check out my background and issuing my license. Why then is it taking 5 or more months (if not an entire year) for Uber and Lyft to finish their for-hire license processing? I have alerted the City regulatory authorities. We will see how they respond, or not. My friend did report that his minimum Uber fare translates down to $2.45 per trip, which means if he gets 5 minimum fares in one hour he nets $12.25 cents. Of course the usual Seattle taxi minimum is $5.00, equaling times five fares into $25.00, meaning Uber drivers are making half of what I do.
Another part of that slow Uber processing are the background checks. Per the incident in Kalamazoo, Michigan, it means that even if the guy's record had not been clean, how quickly would they have had known? Months, years? What clearly Uber and Lyft appears to be doing is putting drivers on the streets before they know they are qualified to be there. Does this mean that every Uber and Lyft driver is an unanswered question? I will let you answer that.
BYG No More
Yellow, once known as the BYG (Broadway-Yellow-Greytop) Co-op, is now known as Yellow Fleet. This is a new legal definition.
To Tow or Not
When a friend's broken down Yellow Cab was left sitting at the train station, I discovered a new, unbeknown reality: drivers must now pay for their own tow and deduct the cost from their lease. Two potential problems with this, especially if you don't have a credit card. One, you must have the cash on hand, and two, a simple tow within Seattle is okay but what happens if, after a long fare, say to Portland, Oregon, your taxi breaks down? The driver would have to pay for a $500-1000. or more tow. This arrangement has to be given more thought. At the very least everyone should be receiving a fleet-wide notification.
Also this sounds like a new contractual agreement. Something needs to be put into writing.
Puget Sound Dispatching Direct Depositing
A new arrangement PSD is beginning March 1st is having our processed charges deposited directly into our back accounts. Two important questions. Can a driver, uncomfortable with giving out personal info, opt out? The other is what happens if PSD somehow loses your deposit, with your bank never receiving the transaction? What is the PSD backup plan? It would make sense to ensure that some safeguards are in place.
Last Tuesday Meeting With Teamsters 117
Last Tuesday I met with Teamsters officials about their opposition to HB 2733, a bill that might have lowered taxi insurance rates state-wide. They said it it was a matter of not lessening local authority.
One area I think we have some disagreement is the Seattle mayor's recent Uber decisions. Teamsters said Mayor Murray saved the local taxi industry by getting Uber to drop their state-wide referendum drive switching regulatory authority from the City of Seattle and King Country to the State of Washington. It is difficult to see how what once was a limit of 250 Uber cars to what is now estimated to be 10-14 thousand Uber operators as a victory for local taxi? If you needed to understand just why Yellow has dissolved into its present state, you have your answer.
One strong positive was the reopening of lines of communication and cooperation. This will be necessary if and when we, the drivers and single owners of the Seattle and King County taxi industry form some version of taxi union/taxi trade association. Teamsters support and backing and experience will be essential toward our ultimate success.
I Saw It
When coming back from Mexico, I saw the new Yellow taxi lot at 107th and Meyers Way South from the air as we made our final landing approach. It was hard to miss, all those bright yellow cars.
New Call Center
They are getting better. Yes, small mistakes at times do occur but they are eager to get it right. Clearly they are taking a "crash-course" in everything taxi. I can tell they are quickly learning both the taxi good and the bad. Good luck and best wishes to them.
Poverty
The older gentleman waved to me from his apartment building doorway. "I am hungry," he said, wanting to go to a restaurant at 12th S. and S. Jackson. He asked how much and I told him a million dollars but finally agreed to five dollars. Arriving, he tightly gripped his 20 dollars bill, not letting it go until I gave him his fifteen dollars in change. I showed him my wallet and he made a snatching motion. We both smiled. Poverty! and the human condition.
Concerning Taxi, Is Everything Backward?
When I took over YC 478, I bought new set of snow tires for the winter season. Instead of having them installed by the tire shop, I had the Yellow shop put them on. Well I am shocked to report that I was told, when taking 478 in to have the tires rotated and getting an alignment, that the tires were put on backward, causing some unnecessary tread wear. I have yet to determine whether my warranty has been destroyed by the mistake. Why is always the question. Why did the simple become something far different? Nothing like taxi is all I can say.
Tow Truck Sharks Swimming in Seattle
Sunday I got this call to the 1400 block of Alaskan Way (the waterfront) and found these distressed folks (visiting from Moses Lake) who just had their car towed away. Having parked in front of the Seattle Antique Market, they failed to heed the signs that Gary's Westside Towing would haul their car away. An important note is that Seattle's Puget Sound waterfront is both a popular tourist destination and undergoing many construction projects thus limiting parking. People like the country bumpkins I took to the tow yard have no idea about the predatory towing environment prevalent in Seattle over the past 30 years, shocked to discover that Westside Towing would, could and can charge them $435.00 for their errant parking violation. Listening to their pleading over the telephone, I was outraged by what I was hearing. The towing dispatcher even told them, in a fit of anger, that fine, they could wait until Monday to pick up their car. I called 911 and requested that the SPD meet us at the tow yard. First told that this was a "civil matter," I was put on hold, then amazingly the police non-emergency officer hung up on me. All this was complicated by the fact they didn't have a credit card with them to pay the outrageous fee, never thinking that something like this could happen to them.
Long and short of all this is that I had to take them to a Western Union office where they waited for the money to be wired. Once they had the cash in hand they called me back and I took them back once again to the tow yard. I told them to file a complaint with the City of Seattle. What appears to be true is that multiple cars were towed at about the same time Sunday afternoon. Something about this doesn't appear to be right. Are they using spotters to call the towing company? Are the signs not clearly displayed? Is this tow truck ballet occurring every weekend? I personally will contact the City of Seattle and tell them to check it out. Somebody has to take some responsibility for this. This is no way to treat Seattle visitors. Even if the tourist dumbbells are parking in the wrong places, how is this response reasonable? Is this how this so-called famously liberal city treats the innocent, because, believe me, if you had met the two sisters and their children, that is how you would have described them, as innocents. Criminals? The only thing criminal is how they were treated. The tow truck dispatcher told me they were operating totally within legal parameters. I believe him but that still doesn't make right and just and moral, taking advantage of simple mistakes. Where is the malice is all I can say?
Wednesday, February 17, 2016
Arriving In "Strangeville"----No Place I Want To Be
I always hate ending up in Strangeville" even though all the signs say I am actually somewhere in Seattle but I know that can't be true. You won't find Strangeville on any map because its boundaries are mobile, ever moving yet omnipresent. And what is frustrating is the complete lack of warning that you somehow made that fatal turn into unfriendly environs, instantaneously finding myself in my own private and personal "Twilight Zone". What isn't a mystery is not knowing that I am there, always too aware---the jangling keys to this invisible city rattling in my head, my cab having entered a web entangling body and mind. "I am trapped, I am trapped," and do what I will, I can't get out. Stepping on the accelerator and flying down Aurora not doing any good, the entire city transformed into a greater metropolitan Strangeville. It is a helpless feeling.
It was Saturday afternoon, about 3:10 PM, and I was elated, coming back downtown after a fourth airport run of the day. Knowing the Portland train was scheduled for sometime between 3:30-4:00 PM I was focused upon King Street Station when I was offered a Beacon Hill bell. Accepting it, the 4100 block of 15th Avenue South, I noted the commentary that "their cellphone was dying and they would meet me in front." This somewhat cryptic message alerted me to the possibility that this fare might turn out bad and it did, never finding anyone despite searching both the front and alley. And of course no one answered my telephone calls. What bothered me was wasting time better used getting to the train.
After throwing away ten minutes I resolved to head for the train only to get another call, close by but on a "confusing" part of 25th South that was just off Cheasty Blvd South, a lovely wood-lined street running behind the Jefferson Golf Course. Upon my arrival I found my passenger waiting, an older gentleman holding a walker on his way back home to the Center Park housing complex.. Heading south down S. Andover I ran directly into the street I needed but requiring an odd maneuver which, alerted to oncoming traffic, I quickly turned north, avoided all the raging cars but nearly damaging one of my new tires. This is when I knew beyond any doubt I was in Strangeville. And once getting him to his building it was confirmed because he had only $3.00 for a seven dollar fare. "I had to give my doctor $200.00 today," he said in explanation. His debit card declined. Yes, yes, not-so-lovely Strangeville, blowing my entire hour for three bucks!
If needing further confirmation, I got it when the next call, a $57.00 HopeLink run, was a no-show. Like too many of these, the client never showed up for their appointment , and of course the company (Yellow, etc.) are never told.
After that disappointment I decided to head up north and fill up 478 at the Arco AM-PM featuring $1.75.09 per gallon gasoline. After that I languished for another hour, getting a nine dollar fare, all adding up to 12 dollars for three anguished hours. What I have found is, is that no fun is allowed in Strangeville, a very Calvinist community, your head in some kind of mobile stockade.
And how did I finally escape? Not sure other than I grimly proceeded forward, pushing against the invisible envelope until finally breaking free. I knew I was back in Seattle after this happened while sitting second up on the Pier 69/Victoria Clipper stand.
A young woman comes out the door but instead of getting into the first taxi, she steps aside. Then an older woman comes out and asks the driver,"Can you take a card?" and jumps in his cab. Then the other passenger, someone I thought wasn't taking a cab that night, walks ups to me and asks me if I know where the Sea-Tac La Quinta is? Answering in the affirmative, off we go, a pleasant conversation ensues, becoming one of those fares where, if wanting to take it further, the possibility appeared to be there. Anyway, it was a good fare and a nice interaction, Strangeville now far behind in the rear view mirror. But why did she not get into the first cab? I think I know the answer. Wherever that cabbie was heading, it was to Strangeville and no place else. God help him!
And that, my friends, is a destination I wouldn't wish upon anyone, even an Uber driver! Who need the heartbreak and anguish? Not anyone I know, that 's for sure!
It was Saturday afternoon, about 3:10 PM, and I was elated, coming back downtown after a fourth airport run of the day. Knowing the Portland train was scheduled for sometime between 3:30-4:00 PM I was focused upon King Street Station when I was offered a Beacon Hill bell. Accepting it, the 4100 block of 15th Avenue South, I noted the commentary that "their cellphone was dying and they would meet me in front." This somewhat cryptic message alerted me to the possibility that this fare might turn out bad and it did, never finding anyone despite searching both the front and alley. And of course no one answered my telephone calls. What bothered me was wasting time better used getting to the train.
After throwing away ten minutes I resolved to head for the train only to get another call, close by but on a "confusing" part of 25th South that was just off Cheasty Blvd South, a lovely wood-lined street running behind the Jefferson Golf Course. Upon my arrival I found my passenger waiting, an older gentleman holding a walker on his way back home to the Center Park housing complex.. Heading south down S. Andover I ran directly into the street I needed but requiring an odd maneuver which, alerted to oncoming traffic, I quickly turned north, avoided all the raging cars but nearly damaging one of my new tires. This is when I knew beyond any doubt I was in Strangeville. And once getting him to his building it was confirmed because he had only $3.00 for a seven dollar fare. "I had to give my doctor $200.00 today," he said in explanation. His debit card declined. Yes, yes, not-so-lovely Strangeville, blowing my entire hour for three bucks!
If needing further confirmation, I got it when the next call, a $57.00 HopeLink run, was a no-show. Like too many of these, the client never showed up for their appointment , and of course the company (Yellow, etc.) are never told.
After that disappointment I decided to head up north and fill up 478 at the Arco AM-PM featuring $1.75.09 per gallon gasoline. After that I languished for another hour, getting a nine dollar fare, all adding up to 12 dollars for three anguished hours. What I have found is, is that no fun is allowed in Strangeville, a very Calvinist community, your head in some kind of mobile stockade.
And how did I finally escape? Not sure other than I grimly proceeded forward, pushing against the invisible envelope until finally breaking free. I knew I was back in Seattle after this happened while sitting second up on the Pier 69/Victoria Clipper stand.
A young woman comes out the door but instead of getting into the first taxi, she steps aside. Then an older woman comes out and asks the driver,"Can you take a card?" and jumps in his cab. Then the other passenger, someone I thought wasn't taking a cab that night, walks ups to me and asks me if I know where the Sea-Tac La Quinta is? Answering in the affirmative, off we go, a pleasant conversation ensues, becoming one of those fares where, if wanting to take it further, the possibility appeared to be there. Anyway, it was a good fare and a nice interaction, Strangeville now far behind in the rear view mirror. But why did she not get into the first cab? I think I know the answer. Wherever that cabbie was heading, it was to Strangeville and no place else. God help him!
And that, my friends, is a destination I wouldn't wish upon anyone, even an Uber driver! Who need the heartbreak and anguish? Not anyone I know, that 's for sure!
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
The Demise Of "Little Fish": Yellow Dispatch Changes Colors To A Desert Hue
As the old 74 South Hudson Street cab lot was dismantled, and ultimately, moving to both South 128th Street (Puget Sound Dispatch offices) and the new Yellow Co-op (BYG) lot at South 107th and South Meyers Way, the question upon everyone's lips was just when would PSD transfer its dispatch operations to its new location? Upon my return from Mexico, I found out the answer.
Las Vegas, Nevada is the new location, meaning ninety percent of dispatch personnel was layed-off, dispatch in total minus Hopelink and school-run operations shifted to a Las Vegas call-center that has been dispatching for San Francisco Yellow for the past eight months. Ostensibly the justification for this shocking development (months in the planning) was the failure of dispatch call takers to properly do their job despite a recent two dollar per hour pay raise. While there can be no argument that dispatch held some serious problems, I never saw it as something completely broken, efficient management and communication correcting very resolvable issues.
Do I think it was necessary to do something as dramatic as what was decided upon? No, but it speaks to me what I see as a pervasive panic overtaking both Yellow and the American taxi industry on the whole. Having slept-walked for decades, the taxi industry has suddenly awakened to a newer and scarier reality. Like the sleepy-heads they are, instead of giving themselves time to fully awaken they are walking into walls and bruising their noses. Ouch!
But if you are puzzled by the posting title I will explain, which might also add credence to the PSD position that it was necessary to toss the louts out on their heads. The weekend prior to my Mexico trip I was belled-in to an early morning fare at 2401 2nd Avenue, which is a sushi restaurant. The passenger name provided to me was "Little Fish." When I got there a big, burly gentleman conducting some kind of "street business" took offense when I called out for Mister Little Fish. "Rufus," he growled, "my name is Rufus!" Calling dispatch, the then night supervisor told me the name change had been put out as a kind of joke. That I didn't find this funny goes, as is said, without saying, and neither did Rufus. In short, too many of the now dismissed call takers were simply incorrigible, doing anything they wanted. While missing friends like Jeffery and Fred, all I can say is that collectively, what happened to them is their own fault. Little fish indeed! Stupid! Working along that line of thinking, they must have thought they were "big fish" in their small dispatcher sea. Now, surprise, surprise to have suddenly found themselves flopping helplessly upon a wooden pier, waiting to be filleted. Such is reality when you think a professional task is some kind of game. It just isn't and never will be.
And what about the new Las Vegas crew? Well, the jury is definitely out. Already we are seeing omitted telephone numbers and short tempers. Why? Two plausible reasons could be, one, knowing nothing about the city of Seattle and King county and its streets, addresses, etc. And two, none of them have ever driven a cab, meaning they have no conception of who they are talking to and our inherent reality. As I always say, it takes five years for someone to become an actual cabbie and not just some mystified person driving with a meter and top-light. I think it will ultimately work out for the best but by nature I am inherently optimistic. Or again, maybe I am just delusional, just like every other garden variety cabbie. Funny I never noticed that my bedroom walls are padded. Gonna have to think about just why that is!
Las Vegas, Nevada is the new location, meaning ninety percent of dispatch personnel was layed-off, dispatch in total minus Hopelink and school-run operations shifted to a Las Vegas call-center that has been dispatching for San Francisco Yellow for the past eight months. Ostensibly the justification for this shocking development (months in the planning) was the failure of dispatch call takers to properly do their job despite a recent two dollar per hour pay raise. While there can be no argument that dispatch held some serious problems, I never saw it as something completely broken, efficient management and communication correcting very resolvable issues.
Do I think it was necessary to do something as dramatic as what was decided upon? No, but it speaks to me what I see as a pervasive panic overtaking both Yellow and the American taxi industry on the whole. Having slept-walked for decades, the taxi industry has suddenly awakened to a newer and scarier reality. Like the sleepy-heads they are, instead of giving themselves time to fully awaken they are walking into walls and bruising their noses. Ouch!
But if you are puzzled by the posting title I will explain, which might also add credence to the PSD position that it was necessary to toss the louts out on their heads. The weekend prior to my Mexico trip I was belled-in to an early morning fare at 2401 2nd Avenue, which is a sushi restaurant. The passenger name provided to me was "Little Fish." When I got there a big, burly gentleman conducting some kind of "street business" took offense when I called out for Mister Little Fish. "Rufus," he growled, "my name is Rufus!" Calling dispatch, the then night supervisor told me the name change had been put out as a kind of joke. That I didn't find this funny goes, as is said, without saying, and neither did Rufus. In short, too many of the now dismissed call takers were simply incorrigible, doing anything they wanted. While missing friends like Jeffery and Fred, all I can say is that collectively, what happened to them is their own fault. Little fish indeed! Stupid! Working along that line of thinking, they must have thought they were "big fish" in their small dispatcher sea. Now, surprise, surprise to have suddenly found themselves flopping helplessly upon a wooden pier, waiting to be filleted. Such is reality when you think a professional task is some kind of game. It just isn't and never will be.
And what about the new Las Vegas crew? Well, the jury is definitely out. Already we are seeing omitted telephone numbers and short tempers. Why? Two plausible reasons could be, one, knowing nothing about the city of Seattle and King county and its streets, addresses, etc. And two, none of them have ever driven a cab, meaning they have no conception of who they are talking to and our inherent reality. As I always say, it takes five years for someone to become an actual cabbie and not just some mystified person driving with a meter and top-light. I think it will ultimately work out for the best but by nature I am inherently optimistic. Or again, maybe I am just delusional, just like every other garden variety cabbie. Funny I never noticed that my bedroom walls are padded. Gonna have to think about just why that is!
Tuesday, February 2, 2016
Carelessness Or Simple Lack Of Comprehension?---Analysis February 2016
As many of you know, I began my taxi journey way back in the autumn of 1987, and if I had to use one word to describe what I have seen overall, it is "mess," as "in a mess" or "it's a complete mess," the kind of mess you would see splattered upon your kitchen floor if you tripped while taking the freshly baked lasagna from the oven to the dining room table. Splat! your nice shiny linoleum floor now covered with red sauce and creamy ricotta. "Oh my god!" your waiting family would exclaim, "What a mess you've made of our dinner! Which of course pretty sums up what I have witnessed from everyone involved all these too many years, creating an untenable mess and expecting someone else to clean it up.
Another way of portraying our shared dilemma, and how we got there, is I think best represented by Pieter Bruegel's great painting from the year 1568, "The Blind Leading the Blind." Based upon Biblical New Testament book passages from Luke 6:39-42 and Matthew 15:10-20, it is a very moving picture of six blind men stumbling over each other, the lead walker having fallen over a small wall. Not knowing it was part of the permanent collection in the Mueso Nazionale di Capodimonte in Naples, I too had stumbled upon it in November 2002, happy to have encountered such a terrific painting.
And that is essentially what I have witnessed since 1987--- a succession of City, County, Port, State officials and elected representatives bumping and colliding into all and anyone concerned with taxi and the various motorized passenger transportation companies in Seattle and the state of Washington. While Bruegel's painting is beautiful, what has been happening is anything but, a confused feral menagerie kicking and biting and shouting and screaming down the bureaucratic aisles. That anything has been gained and achieved in any direction is a major miracle. Functional? What could that mean? Functional in this context simply does not exist. Using my favorite term again, it is a mess!
Just how did this dysfunctional tradition begin? What are its roots? If it is carelessness, then why are the people entrusted with the public good irresponsible, not interested in carrying out assigned tasks? If that has occurred, which I believe I have seen in action, for instance the blotched creation of the Seattle & King County Taxi Advisory Commission, it appears to be a matter of having little to no respect for the individuals served.
But for the most part, what I see is, not carelessness as the primary cause but instead, more precisely, a complete lack of real and cognitive comprehension regarding what they are doing, and why they are supposed to be doing it. As many who have read my blog over the past five years, examples of incompetence from both the regulators and the business operators is seemingly endless, the mistakes an unabated river flowing and flooding over commonsense. Originally my intention with this essay was to list yet another series of stupid and destructive issues and decisions plaguing us, but really, what is the point, with one crisis being replaced by yet another blunder.
Again, most importantly, why can't the parties involved see that they have failed to functionally operate in their appointed sphere of operation? Do they have invisible blind folds preventing them from moving forward, bias, not reason dictating and controlling their internal decision making processes? Whatever it is, the cat or dog (or whatever animal you choose) is biting its own tail and going round and round and round the governmental and taxi (or flat-rate & TNC) tree. What has been passing as functional and operational is obviously not working. How can we make the people involved think and see?
If I had Darwin's ghost standing next to me, I would ask him why is it taking so long for the human animal to understand what is directly in front of its nose? I am afraid he would respond that it is all a matter of evolution, that we simply must wait for this animal to evolve, to develop more completely another part of the brain. Unfortunately, we who are alive now, in real time, don't have the luxury to watch the decades and centuries slowly past. By that juncture we will have all reached our natural ends. While death is a kind of final summation, it is not the required answer. We need a better response, and quickly, before our expiration is untimely and unnecessary, beyond and past all resolutions; true comprehension required now, and forever.
Adios from San Miguel de Allende
Sad to say that in less than 48 hours I will be leaving what has been a pleasant stay. Yesterday the temperature was nearly 80 degrees F., and today's early morning heat suggests that it will be even hotter. Again, especially for those unfamiliar with Mexico, or are just inexperienced travelers, San Miguel and area is an excellent place to begin. Sunday we embarked on a two bus journey to view the "pena de Bernal (rock of Bernal)" located in the small town of San Sebastain Bernal. The monolith, 65 million years old and 1, 421 feet high, is the largest freestanding rock in the world. This natural tower is just one of many good reasons to come here.
Another reason of course are the area thermal springs. Each morning we board a local bus (fare about 75 cents) and travel early to the La Gruta spa, a very non-pretentious hot springs where paying a mere $7.00 (120 pesos) at today's exchange rates allows one to soak the entire day (7:00 AM-5:00 PM). Check out the cave or grotto and splash around in the misty pool. I guarantee you will love it!
After the baths, take the about one kilometer walk to the village of Atotonilco and visit the most amazing Sanctuary (church) of Atotoncilco. The interior wall and ceiling paintings are unmatched anywhere. Art lovers will be pleased. And now, since you are hungry, eat some delicious tacos made with freshly made tortillas from the local stalls. They will cost you between 10-15 pesos. Viva Mexico!
Again, adios, amigos!
Another way of portraying our shared dilemma, and how we got there, is I think best represented by Pieter Bruegel's great painting from the year 1568, "The Blind Leading the Blind." Based upon Biblical New Testament book passages from Luke 6:39-42 and Matthew 15:10-20, it is a very moving picture of six blind men stumbling over each other, the lead walker having fallen over a small wall. Not knowing it was part of the permanent collection in the Mueso Nazionale di Capodimonte in Naples, I too had stumbled upon it in November 2002, happy to have encountered such a terrific painting.
And that is essentially what I have witnessed since 1987--- a succession of City, County, Port, State officials and elected representatives bumping and colliding into all and anyone concerned with taxi and the various motorized passenger transportation companies in Seattle and the state of Washington. While Bruegel's painting is beautiful, what has been happening is anything but, a confused feral menagerie kicking and biting and shouting and screaming down the bureaucratic aisles. That anything has been gained and achieved in any direction is a major miracle. Functional? What could that mean? Functional in this context simply does not exist. Using my favorite term again, it is a mess!
Just how did this dysfunctional tradition begin? What are its roots? If it is carelessness, then why are the people entrusted with the public good irresponsible, not interested in carrying out assigned tasks? If that has occurred, which I believe I have seen in action, for instance the blotched creation of the Seattle & King County Taxi Advisory Commission, it appears to be a matter of having little to no respect for the individuals served.
But for the most part, what I see is, not carelessness as the primary cause but instead, more precisely, a complete lack of real and cognitive comprehension regarding what they are doing, and why they are supposed to be doing it. As many who have read my blog over the past five years, examples of incompetence from both the regulators and the business operators is seemingly endless, the mistakes an unabated river flowing and flooding over commonsense. Originally my intention with this essay was to list yet another series of stupid and destructive issues and decisions plaguing us, but really, what is the point, with one crisis being replaced by yet another blunder.
Again, most importantly, why can't the parties involved see that they have failed to functionally operate in their appointed sphere of operation? Do they have invisible blind folds preventing them from moving forward, bias, not reason dictating and controlling their internal decision making processes? Whatever it is, the cat or dog (or whatever animal you choose) is biting its own tail and going round and round and round the governmental and taxi (or flat-rate & TNC) tree. What has been passing as functional and operational is obviously not working. How can we make the people involved think and see?
If I had Darwin's ghost standing next to me, I would ask him why is it taking so long for the human animal to understand what is directly in front of its nose? I am afraid he would respond that it is all a matter of evolution, that we simply must wait for this animal to evolve, to develop more completely another part of the brain. Unfortunately, we who are alive now, in real time, don't have the luxury to watch the decades and centuries slowly past. By that juncture we will have all reached our natural ends. While death is a kind of final summation, it is not the required answer. We need a better response, and quickly, before our expiration is untimely and unnecessary, beyond and past all resolutions; true comprehension required now, and forever.
Adios from San Miguel de Allende
Sad to say that in less than 48 hours I will be leaving what has been a pleasant stay. Yesterday the temperature was nearly 80 degrees F., and today's early morning heat suggests that it will be even hotter. Again, especially for those unfamiliar with Mexico, or are just inexperienced travelers, San Miguel and area is an excellent place to begin. Sunday we embarked on a two bus journey to view the "pena de Bernal (rock of Bernal)" located in the small town of San Sebastain Bernal. The monolith, 65 million years old and 1, 421 feet high, is the largest freestanding rock in the world. This natural tower is just one of many good reasons to come here.
Another reason of course are the area thermal springs. Each morning we board a local bus (fare about 75 cents) and travel early to the La Gruta spa, a very non-pretentious hot springs where paying a mere $7.00 (120 pesos) at today's exchange rates allows one to soak the entire day (7:00 AM-5:00 PM). Check out the cave or grotto and splash around in the misty pool. I guarantee you will love it!
After the baths, take the about one kilometer walk to the village of Atotonilco and visit the most amazing Sanctuary (church) of Atotoncilco. The interior wall and ceiling paintings are unmatched anywhere. Art lovers will be pleased. And now, since you are hungry, eat some delicious tacos made with freshly made tortillas from the local stalls. They will cost you between 10-15 pesos. Viva Mexico!
Again, adios, amigos!
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
More Uber & Lyft---The Story Has Only Become Stranger
Before I continue my examination of what King County and the City of Seattle is permitting the TNC (Uber and Lyft) industry to do, I first must greet you once again from the sunny environs that is San Miguel de Allende. Today we ( I am here with "she-who-can't-be-named") walked alongside a desert river, napping on a sandbank on a 75 degree F. afternoon. Prior to that we soaked in a thermal hot springs, the healing minerals telling me yet again that taxi driving is doing very little toward enhancing my physical health, hot water quickly addressing a sore and battered and fatigued body.
There are many Americans living here in San Miguel and area. Last night dinner cost us $8.00 including tip. There are many good reasons to make San Miguel and other parts of Mexico your permanent residence. If circumstances allow I plan on living a least one full year in Mexico City. I love that crazy, overcrowded city. Very exciting place. Saint Petersburg, Russia is another city I would enjoy living in. Maybe someday I'll ask Putin for a personal invitation. I am sure he would be very accommodating. I believe he is still hosting the American gentleman who caused a small stir in that once secretive world of cyber-spying and listening in upon your neighbors.
In my last posting I said that Uber (and also Lyft) were paying for their driver's (theoretical independent contractors) for-hire licenses. This point and others were confirmed by an email I received from King County's current Licensing Manager for KC's Records & Licensing Division, sum and part of King County's Department of Executive Services. If he doesn't know, no one does. The following quotes, I swear upon a stack of taxi regulations, are verbatim and completely accurate.
For those new to our local industry, King County serves as the City of Seattle's partner, jointly administrating licensing services for taxis, flat-rate for-hires; and now, the TNC (Uber and Lyft) companies. Some of what he said explained why my friend has not received his required "for-hire" driving license even though many months have now passed since his first moment behind the Uber wheel. What I found astonishing is that King County and the City of Seattle have, for unknown reasons, parcelled out some of their administrative duties to the TNC industry itself. This direct quote confirms this---"the burden of administrating the testing, training and background checking fall upon the TNC."
To me, and it might seem that way to you too, sounding like the proverbial "putting the fox in charge of the hen house." Now I cannot say for sure that King County and the City of Seattle have totally abrogated their regulatory responsibilities to Uber and Lyft but given my friend's situation, there appears to be a suggestion of poor oversight. Just who is paying attention to all of the finer details?
And concerning for-hire fees, another quote addresses this issue---"To the driver, they are still subject to the same requirements as if they visit our office for licensing except for payment of the fees which are covered by the TNC they are on-board with. It is a different fee structure but fees are paid by the TNC." One thing absent from this is any mention of driver reimbursement to Uber or Lyft. Again I would suggest that this might put in question the separation that must exist in this type of vendor/independent operator arrangement.
What interests me, and I hope intrigues you, is just how did this kind of new and unique regulatory arrangement come into existence? We in the taxi industry certainly do not hold this kind of freedom. Also please understand that Uber and Lyft are new entrants into the transportation sector, with no previous operational track record proving they are capable and reliable partners. Just how they earned this kind of trust is a mystery; and something worthy of an answer.
One question I have concerns TNC insurance coverage. Is the TNC driver covered even though they do not have a legal for-hire license, all the while operating thousands of passenger-carrying miles without one? If I was driving for either Uber or Lyft I would seek clarification ASAP. There is also some question, due to classification, on who holds ultimate regulatory jurisdiction over TNC companies. Is the responsibility local, or is it held by the State of Washington?
I predict that this potential bureaucratic "can of worms" will explode into a gigantic controversy if and when a serious accident occurs. The lawyers might certainly have fun figuring this all out. Could it even come to where we have the State Attorney General defending private companies in a court of law? That is too bizarre of a situation to comprehend! But given what I have been discovering, I am beginning to believe anything might be true. Many politicians, City, County, State composed in part of what we now see manifested in front of us today. You may have heard that "too many cooks spoil the broth." Just who wrote this confounding recipe?
And again I wonder why the local media outlets haven't been more interested in this wild tale. Just how did this all come about? I know an answer exists. The only question is, just who will answer it? Again, is this only the beginning of the story, with many chapters yet to be reported? Maybe.
Adios, amigos. Stay dry!
There are many Americans living here in San Miguel and area. Last night dinner cost us $8.00 including tip. There are many good reasons to make San Miguel and other parts of Mexico your permanent residence. If circumstances allow I plan on living a least one full year in Mexico City. I love that crazy, overcrowded city. Very exciting place. Saint Petersburg, Russia is another city I would enjoy living in. Maybe someday I'll ask Putin for a personal invitation. I am sure he would be very accommodating. I believe he is still hosting the American gentleman who caused a small stir in that once secretive world of cyber-spying and listening in upon your neighbors.
In my last posting I said that Uber (and also Lyft) were paying for their driver's (theoretical independent contractors) for-hire licenses. This point and others were confirmed by an email I received from King County's current Licensing Manager for KC's Records & Licensing Division, sum and part of King County's Department of Executive Services. If he doesn't know, no one does. The following quotes, I swear upon a stack of taxi regulations, are verbatim and completely accurate.
For those new to our local industry, King County serves as the City of Seattle's partner, jointly administrating licensing services for taxis, flat-rate for-hires; and now, the TNC (Uber and Lyft) companies. Some of what he said explained why my friend has not received his required "for-hire" driving license even though many months have now passed since his first moment behind the Uber wheel. What I found astonishing is that King County and the City of Seattle have, for unknown reasons, parcelled out some of their administrative duties to the TNC industry itself. This direct quote confirms this---"the burden of administrating the testing, training and background checking fall upon the TNC."
To me, and it might seem that way to you too, sounding like the proverbial "putting the fox in charge of the hen house." Now I cannot say for sure that King County and the City of Seattle have totally abrogated their regulatory responsibilities to Uber and Lyft but given my friend's situation, there appears to be a suggestion of poor oversight. Just who is paying attention to all of the finer details?
And concerning for-hire fees, another quote addresses this issue---"To the driver, they are still subject to the same requirements as if they visit our office for licensing except for payment of the fees which are covered by the TNC they are on-board with. It is a different fee structure but fees are paid by the TNC." One thing absent from this is any mention of driver reimbursement to Uber or Lyft. Again I would suggest that this might put in question the separation that must exist in this type of vendor/independent operator arrangement.
What interests me, and I hope intrigues you, is just how did this kind of new and unique regulatory arrangement come into existence? We in the taxi industry certainly do not hold this kind of freedom. Also please understand that Uber and Lyft are new entrants into the transportation sector, with no previous operational track record proving they are capable and reliable partners. Just how they earned this kind of trust is a mystery; and something worthy of an answer.
One question I have concerns TNC insurance coverage. Is the TNC driver covered even though they do not have a legal for-hire license, all the while operating thousands of passenger-carrying miles without one? If I was driving for either Uber or Lyft I would seek clarification ASAP. There is also some question, due to classification, on who holds ultimate regulatory jurisdiction over TNC companies. Is the responsibility local, or is it held by the State of Washington?
I predict that this potential bureaucratic "can of worms" will explode into a gigantic controversy if and when a serious accident occurs. The lawyers might certainly have fun figuring this all out. Could it even come to where we have the State Attorney General defending private companies in a court of law? That is too bizarre of a situation to comprehend! But given what I have been discovering, I am beginning to believe anything might be true. Many politicians, City, County, State composed in part of what we now see manifested in front of us today. You may have heard that "too many cooks spoil the broth." Just who wrote this confounding recipe?
And again I wonder why the local media outlets haven't been more interested in this wild tale. Just how did this all come about? I know an answer exists. The only question is, just who will answer it? Again, is this only the beginning of the story, with many chapters yet to be reported? Maybe.
Adios, amigos. Stay dry!
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