THUNDER BAY — "We as a community, owe these people a great debt of gratitude for keeping the kids safe," said Mayor Ken Boshcoff as he proclaimed this week crossing guard week in the city.
On Wednesday afternoon community members met at the Oliver Road Recreation Centre in Thunder Bay for the annual crossing guard luncheon.
The event included the granting of the 6P, a prestigious award for participation in partnership with police in the protection and prevention of injuries to kids by the Thunder Bay Police Service, and the honouring of four employees who have reached a decade of service.
“I do it because I love my job and I love to keep them safe,” said Linda Algerman, recipient of the 6P award. “I really appreciate the acknowledgement that what I'm doing does make a difference in Thunder Bay.”
The award was given to someone that makes a significant impact in watching for the safety of children, said Michelle Reimer, supervisor for crossing guards in Thunder Bay.
“They all do such an amazing job,” she said.
As a crossing guard, Algerman said, she is always encouraging drivers to slow down.
“The cars, they're not so good,” she said. “Often they don't slow down and they go too fast through the school zones.”
Drivers have also been seen going through a crosswalk that children and crossing guards were using, Algerman said.
“It's very serious, and they need to pay attention,” she said.
