My Dream: Whistling while she works

[Times photo: Douglas R. Clifford] Toni Dravis, school crossing guard in training, practices stopping traffic in downtown Clearwater. Standing in the path of moving cars is scary, but it’s worth it to keep the kids safe.

Hi! I'm Toni Dravis! Here's my story. I was born in St. Pete on Jan. 22, 1959, with some disabilities. I've had to struggle a little. I didn't walk until I was 3, and I had some memory problems. I had some problems with my eyes and some problems hearing. But with God's help, I've done okay.

I graduated from Pinellas Park High School in 1978, and I studied two years at St. Pete Junior College. I took preschool education and business courses. My dad is deceased and I live with my mom, and I'm as independent as I can be. I can drive. I have a 1997 Nissan Sentra, and I've had a number of jobs. I've done some telemarketing and I've worked in a mental health service program where you help people around their homes with housework.

My life is pretty good. I get up early now and eat yogurt and drink a Diet Coke -- never coffee! -- for breakfast. I have to admit I don't like to cook, but my favorite food is pizza. I like TV, especially the game shows, especially Wheel of Fortune. I read when I can. I read the Bible. It really gives me a lot of strength. In fact, at my church, First Christian, I'm taking a Bible study class. Right now we're reading Revelations.

My brother is a dentist, and sometimes he takes my mom and me places. We've gone to Las Vegas. I liked playing the slot machines! I even won some money and didn't put it back in the slots. I went to the Bahamas some time back on one of those big ships. They give you lots of food. It was fun!

I just got a new job through a vocational placement service. I'm a crossing guard here at Skycrest Elementary. I'm being trained by Brenda Mast. She's very nice. What I'm learning to do is help kids cross the street right here at Drew Street and North Corona. It isn't work, it's fun.

What I do is say to the kids, "Are you ready to cross?" and if they are, I step out onto the road with my sign to stop the traffic. I said it's fun, but it can be a little scary, I'm telling you. But I'm learning.

I guess my dream is to keep the kids safe. With God's help, I will.

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