Definitions by Ben Schumin

Mecca switch 

A function that, when activated in a database, is a "smoke and mirrors" device to make features on a site appear to be nonexistent to the computer-clueless. Originally named for Mecca Marsh, hall director of Potomac Hall at James Madison University from 2000 to 2003. The term was first used in reference to menu items on The Schumin Web.

A: What happened to your page about (whatever)?
B: Oh, it's still there. I Mecca switched it, though, because my friend didn't approve. It'll be back on there before too long.

Mecca switch by Ben Schumin November 25, 2003

metro 

Common term for Washington DC's subway system, short for Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority.

Take Metro from Franconia-Springfield to Smithsonian, and then meet me by the Natural History Museum.

metro by Ben Schumin November 25, 2003

WMATA 

Short for Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, which operates subway and bus systems in the Washington DC area. Also called Metro. The initials are normally pronounced, particularly in regards to their Web site.

Look for a WMATA employee. They'll be able to help you.

WMATA by Ben Schumin November 25, 2003

Redbird 

Class of New York subway cars that were painted red to prevent vandalism. Car classes are R36 and R33. Retired in 2003.

I took a Redbird to Grand Central as part of my commute today.

Redbird by Ben Schumin November 25, 2003

Target 

Department store, competitor to Wal-Mart. Upscale-ness indicated by alternate pronunciation with a French twist on it.

I went shopping at Target.

Target by Ben Schumin November 25, 2003