Three members of the Maciel family celebrated the end of their run as bus drivers for the Martha’s Vineyard Transit Authority (VTA) last week.
Robert (Bob) Maciel, his wife Barbara, and his cousin Gerry Maciel enjoyed a luncheon held in their honor with employees and staff on September 2 at the VTA offices in the Airport Business Park.
Barbara worked 13 years for the VTA, Gerry 12, and Bob 8. In addition to their cumulative 33 years as VTA bus drivers, the three Maciels spent many years as school bus drivers. Gerry started as a school bus driver for Island Transport in 1957 and transported many Edgartown School children and high school students over the years.
In addition to owning and operating Maciel Marine in Vineyard Haven, Bob and Barbara also alternated shifts driving school buses and operating the Lagoon Pond drawbridge. Bob continues to work as a bridge tender. Barbara drove a West Tisbury school bus run from 1978 to 2008.
At last week’s luncheon the three retirees were awarded commemorative plaques and certificates. In addition, Barbara and Bob received hand-blown goblet-style candleholders made by Martha’s Vineyard Glassworks. Gerry received a rope-style hammock.
