Comments made in the editorial obituary for Gerald Hausman require clarification. (See July 1 issue.)

Being one of those industry veterans hired by Mr. Hausman more than 30 years ago, I feel it necessary to set the record straight regarding the description of him as 'not graduating from charm school.' Mr. Hausman, as I referred to him for the 30 years I knew him, was an old-fashioned, traditional businessman. His word was his bond and the customers he built his business and success upon were often his lifelong friends and as close as family.

Mr. Hausman was a World War II veteran and a product of the Depression. He was a self-made man with high expectations of the people he surrounded himself with, whether you were family, employee or friend. He often shared the adages he lived by which included: 'Surround yourself with people smarter than you are and pay them what they are worth if you want to succeed.' 'Be close to your friends but closer to your enemies.' 'Your first loss is your best loss.' And, 'sometimes you have to smile when things don't go your way and win another day.'

He was tough but generous. Also, stubborn, but right most of the time. He was dedicated to this industry and never stopped until the day he passed away, caring about the growth and future of the operators who chose owning and operating motorcoaches for their life's work.

In the end, he got a bit less patient, less able to participate in the events and trade shows he enjoyed, and did not reach out as often to make new acquaintances. But this is not the way he should be remembered. He should be remembered as the man who created the used bus and parts network still used today and who recognized the opportunities for the North American motorcoach business by creating alliances and partnerships that created the framework for Motor Coach Industries today.

Let's remember him respectfully and properly as a one-of-a-kind man who created stability and a legacy for the industry we all share today.

Patricia Ziska

Vice President and

Chief Customer Officer, MCI