Fired Bus Driver

Re “Bus Driver Fired Over Burger Promo,” June 8:

You could rightly say that a bus driver’s job description covers a wide variety of important tasks--information officer, psychologist, baby sitter, policeman, tax collector and expert driver. But handing out hamburger coupons shouldn’t be part of the job. If the board members of the Orange County Transportation Authority think otherwise, maybe they’re the ones who ought to lose their jobs.

BYRWEC ELLISON

Lakewood

Three cheers for Bruce Anderson, the vegetarian bus driver who was suspended for “insubordination” for refusing to hand out hamburger coupons (June 6). He shows a great deal of class, and pardon the pun “guts” for standing up for what he believes in.

I knew Orange County was going through some rough times. This serves to confirm it, as we now realize that they have to resort to passing out Carl’s Jr. coupons to entice bus passengers to come back. I would like to know if the police will be placing Pizza Hut flyers under windshield wipers, or what about discount carwash coupons with each ticket issued?

I am now very confused about what it takes to drive a 20-ton machine filled with people around a busy city. Apparently John Standiford, representative for the Orange County Transportation Authority is, too. He apparently thinks that passing out coupons is part of operating the bus. I would like to know just when does refusing to hand out coupons to passengers play a big part in the safe operation of a bus?

Seemingly, Anderson was thinking public safety when he refused to hand out the belly-bomb coupons. I wish him luck.

BILL FUNK

Van Nuys

Anderson had final words on his actions: “What I did probably saved at least half a cow.” Unfortunately, the other half of the cow died.

PATTI GARRITY