Think about it! The discussions, the ideas, the thoughts of change, the history, the legacy...created so many years ago that continues to serve as the foundation of our country.
Speaking of legacies...My best friend, Rosemary, lost her husband in March at the young age of 62 after a long illness. Joe Occhino (Dr. O) was one of the "good guys!" He had a bright smile, and a P2P attitude. Joe was always ready to chat, to listen, and, most of all, to laugh with you.
As a loving husband, dedicated father of three sons, faithful brother, dear friend, and administrator at the Fairley School in Hannibal, NY for 27 years, Joe has, indeed, left a huge legacy. Dr. O believed in the Golden Rule, to treat others the way we want to be treated. In school, he loved to catch students "being good." As principal, Dr. O passed out yellow business cards that read: "I'M SO PROUD OF YOU....I CAUGHT YOU BEING GOOD TODAY!!!!" DR. OCCHINO. (P2P connections!)
In 1974, “Happy Day” was born, thanks to Joe and a 3rd grade teacher. Through the years the school community's priority was to single out individuals to express appreciation for their efforts in creating a wholesome and safe learning environment. Individuals included administration, teachers, school nurses, secretaries, librarians, teaching assistants, cooks, lunch monitors, bus drivers, parent groups, and volunteers.(P2P connections!)
The "happy face" became Joe's signature and now represents his legacy of "doing good" with everyone who knew him – family, friends, students, parents, teachers, and administrators, alike.
Earlier this week, Rosemary attended the 34th “Happy Day” at The Fairley School. Here’s what she said of the event:
“It was an emotional, yet uplifting, end of year assembly where tribute was paid to Joe. The 3rd Grade Teachers at Fairley selected two students (a boy and a girl) from their classes that are frequently "caught being good." Each student received a framed certificate and a special book, I KNEW YOU COULD, from me and the Occhino family. Everyone was wearing a happy face at the Fairley School...it was contagious!” (P2P connections)
In front of Fairley School, there is the “Dr. O Forever Garden,” created by some students in 2000, when Joe retired. It is now being maintained by volunteers. In the fall, there will be an inside reading garden dedicated in his honor. Two kid-size Adirondack chairs, painted and decorated by two former students now in the high school art classes, were also presented to the classes. A fountain has also been donated to welcome the students to the special area when they return to school in September. (P2P connections)
Thank you, Joe, for being our friend and wonderful role model. Thank you for believing in creating a positive environment for educators and students. Thank you for teaching our children about the Golden Rule. Most of all...
Thank you for being you…Although we miss you…your legacy lives on.
