PRESIDENT CHRIS introduced Marty Sennett, General Manager of City Bus. He began by quoting Lee Atwater, who quoted A. Einstein saying, “Perception is reality”. But perception should be based on fact. Here are some facts to answer four frequently asked questions. 1. Where do you get drivers? The selection process includes testing, BMV and background checks, work history and a physical along with drug and alcohol testing. 2. Why are the buses always enpty? Ridership has grown to 5.25 million riders in the past few years. An increase in revenus also indicates that more people are riding the bus. 3. How is City Bus funded? The state pays 29%; the federal government 27%, and local taxes pay 21%. 4. Why use alternative fuels? The turbines to generate electricity from wind power has produced $34,000 in savings so far. It’s difficult to put a price on cleaner air. Buses that use compressed natural gas cost a little more than diesel fueled vehicles, but the savings in fuel is substantial. Federal grants paying 80% of the cost to purchase new equipment, eliminate the need for duct tape and baling wire when fuel expenses can be redirected.

GUESTS:

Roselie Bambrey, guest of BETTY DOVERSBERGER;
Kathy Parker, guest of TERRY WEST on September 17.

Money Collectors: JIM TURLEY and GUS GUSTAFSON; Greeters: ROB GALBRAITH and RENEE ROAMES; Invocation: CHRISTA KECK; Piano: BOB GRIFFITHS; Song Leader:  ARVID OLSON; 50/50 RAFFLE:  CECIL BLIGNAUT and CHRIS BIANG; Help with attendance and facilitating a smooth meeting:  TOM MORAN, JO WADE, and JANE SMITH.  Webmaster: LARRY HUGGINS.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK:
"Your most unhappy customers are your greatest source of learning." - Bill Gates