Local Crossing Guard Honored on 90th Birthday [PICS]

There was a special celebration at St. Mary's School in Waterford for a crossing guard who has been taking care of the children and parents for nearly three decades. I have met Joseph Avarello on several occasions. He is such a pleasant man who makes sure the children and families of St. Mary's School in Waterford cross safely to and from school. Ryan and the other kids affectionately call him "Papa Joe" and they celebrated his 90th birthday.

According to News 10 ABC, Papa Joe said he has been the crossing guard at St. Mary's for twenty-nine years. When asked how much longer he will do it, he said for as long as he can walk. Papa Joe turned 90 and the school celebrated him.

The Village of Waterford and the school presented a street sign on the corner of Sixth and Division Streets that reads "Papa Joe's Corner". The children sang "Happy Birthday" and the Principal and other faculty spoke about his impact on the school and the children.