Editorial: Mary Talaga — Our beloved school crossing guard

Mary Talaga retired Jan. 18 after serving 57 years as an elementary school crossing guard at the corner of East Huron River Drive and Edgemont.
She’s helped thousands of children cross the street safely, and their children, and their children. She’s had many close calls with inattentive drivers. A lot are looking at cell phones while driving these days.
Mary’s husband Tony was Belleville fire chief and head of the city’s DPW. Mary has always been in the midst of city activity. After Tony died, Mary continued with her crossing guard work. She still works as a lunch lady to help the children in the Edgemont Elementary School cafeteria.
She is close friends with members of the police and fire departments and officers from both departments come to her home to help with her flagpole or other needs.
Gary Bubar from AAA was present at Monday’s city council meeting to present some gifts. He said the AAA’s highest award pins are for “more than 25 years,” so she got another one of those. Gary knew Mary was getting a plaque from the city, so he asked her daughter what gift she could really use and came up with a $100 gift card. That’s what made Mary smile the brightest.
The public is invited to Saturday’s 1-4 p.m. retirement party for Mary at Trinity Episcopal Church. You’re sure to get a hug from Mary when you attend.