American women laud taxi driver

On June 28, 2000, a Blue Bird taxi driver was driving for a couple of American citizens who are relocating to Jakarta from Moscow in the near future. They were looking for a place to live and doing various other tasks involved in moving, one of which was stopping by the American Women's Association Center to purchase some books which we produce to help expatriates adjust to life away from their home country.

They had spent their last rupiah earlier in the morning and had only U.S. dollars left and were leaving in a day or two. The couple sent the taxi driver with US$100 in U.S. dollars to exchange for rupiah.

We are aware this is not a recommended procedure in any country, including the United States. As the time approached for us to close the office and the taxi driver had not returned we were concerned our fears were well founded. However, this gentleman returned with the correct amount in rupiah and the couple could make their purchase before leaving. We were very pleased with his extremely honest action. We are sorry we cannot name his name but he knows who he is and can be proud of his integrity.

VREDY HOPKINS

Vice President/Programs

American Women's Association

Jakarta