MAY GREENE SURPRISES ITS RETIRING CUSTODIAN

Administrators, faculty and students at May Greene Elementary School turned out for an all-school salute to a beloved member of their family Friday.

Guest of honor Homer Turner was surprised by all the fuss on his behalf. Students sang, cheered and showed off their jump-roping skills for Turner, who after working 13 years as the school's custodian is retiring this year.

"We're celebrating Valentine's Day today, a day where we show people we love and care about them," the principal, Dr. Barbara Kohlfeld, said during the school assembly. "That's why today is a good day to honor Mr. Turner. We want him to know that we love him and we'll miss him."

Turner is an admittedly quiet man who likes working in the school setting. Teacher Donna Sanders said he had a special knack for keeping everyone calm in any situation.

He is always calm and never gets angry regardless of what happens, she said. He also comforted sick kids and kept them from getting nervous or upset about any accidents.

Students also recognized Turner as a comforter who always helped people. Many described him as "a nice guy" who kept the school neat and clean and always had a friendly word.

"I used to help him when people cleaned their trays at breakfast," said David Penny, 9. "He talked to me and made nice comments."

Turner said May Greene is a "solid old building" that has given him many good memories over the years. Watching students grow older, leave May Greene and perform well at the secondary level is what he said he enjoyed most about his job.

"I saw a lot of children go on to the other schools and do real good," he said. "It really makes you feel good. We've always had really good teachers here at May Greene. I think that's why they do well at the other schools."

Turner said he'll miss everyone at the school but it is time to let a younger worker take over. After retirement he plans to perform "honey do" work for his wife around their home, he said. Fishing and hunting are also on his leisure activity list.