The Office of the Prime Minister, in conjunction with the Department of Local Government and Road Traffic Department, hosted an evening of appreciation to honor School Crossing Patrol Officers who serve the Grand Bahama Community.

Minister of Transport and Local Government, the Hon. Renward Wells, who was unable to attend the event due to prior engagements, sent warm regards, noting the importance and value of Crossing Guards.

The Minister said that Crossing Guards are responsible for protecting the thousands of students who make the walk from home to school and back five days a week. These, he said, are outstanding and dedicated men and women who brave the weather and other obstacles to carry out their function.

The special event was held in December of 2018.

“Each year approximately 10 school-age pedestrians are injured in traffic accidents and without Crossing Guards that number could potentially increase,” the Minister said in his remarks.

“Crossing Guards are mostly known for their florescent vests and their hand-held stop signs, but they serve a greater purpose than just assisting children and adults across dangerous intersections. Crossing Guards are an important part of the school community, assisting with security and exposing the public to street smarts.”

Several government officials were present to offer their sentiments and express appreciation to these dutiful public servants, thanking them for continued outstanding service.

Among representatives from the government were Sen. the Hon. J. Kwasi Thompson, Minister of State for Grand Bahama; Harcourt Brown, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister, Grand Bahama; Wellington Bootle, Deputy Controller, Road Traffic Department; Yvonne Ward, District Superintendent, East Grand Bahama and The Cays, Department of Education; Kendal R.H. Culmer, Chief Councilor, City of Freeport; and Rev. Robert Lockhart, President, Grand Bahama Christian Council.

The Grand Bahama Crossing Guards include: Louise Williams (who has notably served for 18 years), Lauretta Mott-Rose (17 years), Kim Mose, Antoinette Belizaire-Sands, Rose Marie Jones, Madlyn Ingraham, Stacey Burrows, Shavonne Fox, Adra Sargent, Karen White, Lithera Williamson, Kendra Lightbourne, Sylvia Thompson, Demeritt Tromila, and Nicola Duncombe. 

THANKING CROSSING GUARDS – Minister of State for Grand Bahama, Senator Kwasi Thompson (seated third from left) and Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister (GB), Harcourt Brown (seated fourth from left) were joined by Christian Council President, Robert Lockhart (seated right) and other officials during a special dinner party to honor Crossing Guards who serve in Grand Bahama. Some 15 Crossing Guards were honored. (BIS Photo)

By Andrew Coakley