Friends, family and local residents gathered at Wilson and Western avenues on Saturday, June 19, to honor crossing guard Cynthia Eckner for her 37 years of service at that intersection. Students from both Queen of Angels School and Waters School have to cross the streets here, and there is always a lot of traffic. Through good weather and through bad, Mrs. Eckner protected children; she was injured twice while on duty. Naming the intersection the “Honorary Cynthia Eckner Way” was the idea of Scott and Roine Michaels of B.V.M. Florist and her daughter, Robin.
On hand for the dedication ceremony and the unveiling of the brown-and-white street sign was Ald. Gene Schulter (47th), who presided over the festivities. He also presented “Mrs. E.” with her own sign. 19th District Commander Mary A. West and Sgt. William Looney attended. As a complete surprise Mrs. Eckner's two sons from out of state were also present. Family members and friends were invited down the street to the new offices of Investors Realty at 4541 N. Western Ave. for a reception.
A few days later, on the last day of school, students from Waters School marched over to the intersection to say goodbye to Mrs. E, with drum salute and banner, bringing tears to her eyes.
Mrs. E will enjoy her well-deserved retirement and plans to move to Reno to be close to her grandchildren. Those privileged to know her will remember her whenever they see the “Honorary Cynthia Eckner Way" at Western and Wilson avenues. |
