GAINING TRACTION. . . . SOME THOUGHTS FROM MISTER JIMMY

by Dave Friant

I had the pleasure of meeting 81-year-old Jim Van Orden, and his bride Grace, earlier this summer at their Richardson residence. Both were exceptionally grand hosts for the two-plus hours that I peppered the male of the home with a variety of questions while discussing some of life’s secret sauces.

The Van Ordens shared their “I do’s” in 1967; within shoutin’ distance of 6 decades together as husband and wife. He cites compromise and a commitment to “being able to argue and come out of it smiling” as a major key in the longevity of a marital relationship. They’ve been blessed with two children, one short of a half-dozen grandchildren, and four great grandkiddos.

Van Orden was born in Maplewood, New Jersey. Journalism has been his primary field of educational studies over the years, with both undergraduate and graduate degrees having been earned from the University of Miami and University of Alabama. Employments over a 40- year career have ranged from a Reporter in Coral Gables, Florida to media relations work for Bell Labs/AT & T. His last full-time and substantive pursuit took the form of the Van Orden PR Agency with Grace in Richardson. This previous Garden State resident is, as can be expected, an avid writer having successfully tapped the keys on over 15 books and thousands of short-stories, reports, etc.

Competitive and recreational bicycle riding has been associated with his life since receiving a two-wheeler at the age of four. The pedal pusher extraordinaire has been to many parts of the world fulfilling his spirited challenges. Tending to a variety of adverse pavement conditions combined with the occasional tumble has been a part of his road warrior endeavors. He estimates that a total of 50,000 or so miles of cycling have been traveled since his pre-school years. Van Orden owns several bicycles; one a recreational/non-racing type that he rides locally and a few “skinny wheelers” that bring back memories of his competitive days. The most noteworthy is a Peugeot PX-10 that he has owned for 50 years.

Van Orden took over duties as crossing guard for Canyon Creek Elementary School in 2016. He replaced Norm Gaut, a 20-plus year friend and mentor who inspired within him the value of such duties for the school kids with whom he interacts. The man donning the assigned garb is known as Mister Jimmy by students, joggers, parents, and others seeking access to his bailiwick where Lawnmeadow and Copper Ridge Drive meet. “I establish relationships with the students and others on the corner. Kids are too serious at times. I try to make them feel good about themselves,” says the master of connections who makes it a point to remember names. He lightens up their days through the occasional wearing of costumes and the telling of dad jokes. It’s an assignment that Van Orden takes very seriously given the positives he can instill within young minds.

Mister Jimmy took for a logical spin the “Life is Like Riding a Bicycle” phrase in 2024 when interviewed by his granddaughter, “Cat” Frisby, for her Pep Talk podcast. Referencing some Rules for Life, he noted that balance is critical in both endeavors. Handling the “vulnerabilities in life” as he points out often mirrors difficulties that occur from time to time when riding. He cited a tool kit that he carries when peddling away from home base. It’s crucial when adjustments are to be made concerning pavement conditions, gear selection, or other bicycle dilemmas that arise while on the road. Life too carries with it situations which require “choice selection.” “You’ve got to get up from a fall and not give up,” mentions Van Orden. He noted in the interview that it’s “often an uphill battle,” but it’s one that “can begin at any age.” Frisby’s papa additionally noted that “laughter is a healer that helps to establish and maintain relationships. It aids in the setting off of neurotransmitters in our brains that result in joy.”

So what goes with this physically and emotionally stable conveyor of positivity? From where does he draw the favorable forces necessary to establish solid footing when matters associated with advanced age come calling? Mister Jimmy references a “respect for all people while maintaining a faith in yourself.” He cites the value of hard work and other principles reminiscent of The Great Depression as the secret sauce for achievement.

When in the area, stop and say “hi” when he’s aiding the efforts of our youth in finding effective traction during these trying times. Guaranteed that it’ll be an inspiring experience for both you and him.