News Release

Release date: April 27, 2001

Birthday bash on bus honors eight decades of loyal ridership

One of Metro Transit's most loyal riders got a big surprise today after boarding her favorite bus route.

Bee Dyer of Lake City discovered that Route 65 had been turned into a rolling party in honor of her 80th birthday. The impromptu celebration was arranged by Metro officials and Dyer's granddaughter.

"It's not unusual for Metro to receive nice letters from happy customers," said Metro Transit General Manager Rick Walsh, "but the letter from Mrs. Dyer's family really impressed our entire organization."

Jahna Dyer sent compliments to Metro last week via e-mail, and thanked the transit system for taking good care of her grandmother who uses buses daily.

"I am writing this to thank you for the wonderful service you have always provided to this city, and a bigger thank you for my grandmother's safe arrival to every destination for 80 years, and counting."

Bee Dyer was born in Ballard on April 25, 1921, and has been riding streetcars and buses almost from the day she was born. Her father was a streetcar driver. She loves buses so much that she never got a driver's license, preferring to rely on Metro Transit.

Her family says she takes up to six bus trips a day to shop, visit with friends, attend classes and volunteer. Dyer is also a walking bus schedule, and can tell you -- without looking -- which buses to take anywhere from Des Moines to Everett, and what times to be at the bus stop. Some of her best friends are Metro drivers.

At today's party-on-wheels, Dyer received cake, flowers, Metro memorabilia and an official bus driver's sweater, which was donated by the uniform supplier.

"We felt this kind of customer loyalty needed to be rewarded," said King County Executive Ron Sims, who participated in today's surprise party. "Plus, we are proud to celebrate the quality transit service we provide for Mrs. Dyer and more than 10 million senior citizens every year."

"Faithful rider celebrates 80th birthday at party on Metro bus," Seattle Times, April 28, 2001

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