How Saying "May The Force Be With You" Transformed Lives

Photo: Chicago Tribune/RedEye

Photo: Chicagoist/Jill Howe

When the afternoon CTA Red Line train is packed with tired and hungry commuters who just want to get home, a friendly voice is there to soothe the nerves of passengers.  The voice is that of CTA Conductor Michael Powell.  His messages are always simple and gentle ("Welcome aboard, nice to see you!") and mixed with subtle humor ("Good night.  May the force be with you.").  Whether it was someone's first ride on the CTA or a daily commuter, Powell's announcements always managed to turn frowns upside down.  It wasn't necessarily because what he said was funny or even unexpected...but rather because his tidbits contained warmth (something that the CTA generally lacks).  With a face as friendly as his voice, it would not surprise many to learn that Powell dons traditional blue and white striped overalls and an engineer's cap on the job and also has a basement filled with toy trains.  With little fanfare, Powell retired on New Years Eve 2013 leaving a void that likely will go unfilled.  We'll miss you, Michael!