Just a few days ago I received a very special memento from my dad, Jack Gifford. It was the famous stop sign my grandfather, Maynard Gifford, used for years as crossing guard in Orono. As many of you know, Maynard passed away this summer. His illness, though unexpected and quick, brought us all together for a bittersweet family reunion. It gave us all a chance to look around and see what was more important than anything, family and friends. He left this earth with a proud legacy.

And now months later, I have the stop sign that was signed by the numerous friends and students my grandfather had the pleasure of “crossing” to school for so many years. You will all be remembered and passed on for years to come. Maynard was an icon of Orono. He was a man that took pride in his hometown. He was a man that took pride in his family. And now, as I look at the stop sign, I want to thank all those who took the time to wish my grandfather well while he was ill and those who remembered him when he was gone. I am sure that Maynard is still watching the children of Orono cross that street today.

Michelle L. Gifford-Frederick

Gulf Breeze, Fla.