No Fortitude For Longitude, Part 22

Bar, Diner, Geography, History, Maryland, Stupid, Time, USA | Right | September 25, 2024

It is the nineties, and the US is caught up in the OJ Simpson trial. Our little bar and diner televises it when it’s broadcast as it seems to bring customers in and it’s all everyone seems to be talking about.

We get to the day of the verdict, and we’re packed. I’m serving food to a particular table and one of the customers is grumbling at me.

Customer: “This makes me so mad!”

Probably shouldn’t, but I bite.

Me: “What does?”

Customer: “It’s so unfair that California gets to find out the verdict three hours before us!”

Me: “Uh… I think everyone finds out as soon as they announce it.”

Customer: “No, California is three hours ahead! But it’s okay, I’m gonna get my friend in California on the phone so they can tell me as it’s given.”

My face must have done something because the customer suddenly looks concerned.

Customer: “Don’t worry! I’ll let you know too! I won’t keep it to myself, unlike those f****** Californians!”

Me: “…thanks?”