Tammy’s 33-Stanyan bus yesterday. Photos: Greg/Muni Diaries.

Rather than hit you with another story of Muni’s budget woes and labor battles, we were thrilled to read this charming account on Muni Diaries of a bus driver named Tammy on her 33-Stanyan route who bedecked her coach with balloons and bunting. According to the account by a Muni rider named Greg, Tammy offered candy to everyone getting on and welcomed them aboard. She even crafted a sign with her operator number (2442) and her bus number that reads: "Until Muni realizes that without our passengers there is no Muni, thank you all for the great ride."

Greg tells the story of his commute and Tammy’s infectious smile, which had spread to most on her bus:

It’s like a Fourth of July party inside Tammy’s bus. There are red
white and blue streamers, balloons, coils that say “happy,” banners and
party lanterns hanging from the railings. Large handwritten posters
adorn the windows thanking her riders…

As I sit in the bus watching new passengers board, I witness a Muni
miracle: a sea of frowns turn into big grins as people enter and see
what awaits them. I overhear nearly every newcomer commenting on the
scene to either Tammy or their fellow straphangers. “How cool is this,”
they ponder aloud. “Is this for Mother’s day?” “Is someone retiring?” “I
can’t believe I got candy.”

Pretty much everyone who boarded asked Tammy a quick question about the
decorations. “I just want to show appreciation for my passengers,” was
her standard response. Those who pressed further often heard “If not for
the passengers, drivers and managers have no job.”

Unfortunately for those who ride the 33, Tammy’s last day driving the route is today. Fortunately for those who ride the 24-Divisadero, Tammy’s going to be one of your newest operators in the coming week. Thanks Muni Diaries for the charming story and thanks Tammy for giving us all something good to write about Muni!

Pretty hard not to smile with her.