And Pinellas County isn't immune. Mobile phone use has become so annoying that churches and synagogues have spoken out against them. Restaurants have been transformed into playgrounds. The thought of children using courtesy titles has long past. It's the price we pay for living in places that are so large, so disconnected.
Neighbors know neighbors in small towns.
Sherman ought to know. Today, even society's most sacred moments are being chipped away. Because adults can't seem to unplug from the business of their lives for even an hour or two, sermons are increasingly interrupted by the high-pitched ring of mobile phones. Calvary Baptist Church posted a sign at the entrance of the Clearwater church thanking people for turning off their phones. First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks flashes a similar message on huge screens moments before the sermon.