Turning traffic into solutions

Danette Goulet

COSTA MESA -- When there were traffic concerns at Victoria Elementary

School, Ginny Suyla tackled them.

For two years, she has planned her days around safely guiding

schoolchildren in and out of their parents’ cars each morning and

afternoon.

The gridlock that once backed up into a busy street has become a swift,

organized parade of parents that moves -- on most days -- as quickly and

easily as a well-oiled machine.

This month, Suyla was recognized for those efforts as the recipient of

the Costa Mesa Mayor’s Award.

Initiated a year ago, the award is presented each month to individuals in

the community who are nominated for a variety of outstanding public

services.

Suyla’s nomination came from Jolene Kostenbader, a past president of the

Victoria PTA who wrote a letter to Mayor Gary Monahan describing Suyla’s

single-handed effort and determination in ensuring the safety of children

in the community.

“I was really touched by the letter Jolene wrote,” Suyla said. “The award

was nice, but it was really the letter that got to me.”

After witnessing Suyla tackle the problem last year, Kostenbader said she

was shocked to see the determined traffic fighter still out there this

year, directing parents and walking kids across the street.

“Her dedication is quite amazing, especially when you’re being yelled at

by parents who are parked where they shouldn’t be,” Kostenbader said.

For Suyla, however, the task is not so daunting. She said it takes only a

half-hour in the morning and another in the afternoon.

“I enjoy seeing the kids every day,” she said. “I know a lot more. I have

a good idea of what’s going on at school.”

In addition to protecting the students at Victoria, Suyla takes classes,

serves as a den mother for her son’s Boy Scout troop, is active in the

PTA and volunteers as a preschool teacher at her church on weekends.

There are a few parents who assist Suyla with her self-appointed school

duties, but she hasn’t had time to organize a formal schedule.

One parent helper, Kathy Weir, said seeing Suyla out there giving 100%

inspired her to become involved.

“She walks the kids from across the street to the driveway, she opens

doors every morning. If anyone deserves an award, she does,” Weir said.