Oneil Francis – While the sun rises over the skyline and hot coffee helps jump start early-morning motorists on their weekday commute along Pacific Coast Highway, there are few smiling faces. Oneil Francis likes to change that.
For two-and-a-half years, Francis has manned his post at the intersection of 8th Street and Pacific Coast Highway in Hermosa Beach. The crossing guard makes sure students, parents and other pedestrians reach the opposite side of the street in a safe manner, constantly aware that it only takes a small distraction such as using a cell phone, putting on makeup, or dwelling on the day’s agenda to cause an accident.
Although his duties as a crossing guard consist of only two hours – one in the morning and one in the afternoon – Francis is extremely fond of those he helps protect and considers his job a blessing.
“The good Lord put this in my heart,” Francis said. “Instead of just sitting down and playing dominos in the park, I get to help people. I really enjoy the work. The kids are so nice to me. Everybody’s nice to me.”
The pleasantries Francis has come to enjoy are not limited from those on foot. When not holding up his bright red stop sign while securing a safe passage across the busy intersection, Francis can be seen greeting motorists as they pass through Hermosa Beach. His fluorescent vest, waving arm and bright smile make the roadway icon hard to miss.
Francis is employed by All City Management Services (ACMS), also known as “The Crossing Guard Company.” ACMS is the only company in the nation specifically and exclusively providing school crossing guard services. It has a contract with the City of Hermosa Beach.
Francis admits that waving to the commuters was not originally his idea.
“Soon after I began working here, they started waving to me, so I started waving at them,” the Lawndale resident said. “They’ve been so nice to me and it’s my way of praising God at the same time and thanking Him for my life and this job.”
When not performing his duties as a crossing guard, Francis spends much of his time helping others through his church, Park Windsor Baptist Church in Inglewood. “I’ll drive sick folks to their doctor appointments,” Francis said. “Other times I’ll clean houses or apartments for people that need the help.”
He may not be sitting in a park, but Francis has created a domino effect with one friendly move.
