Symbols of Newark’s Pride
Roderick Osborne and Adrian Chaney
Ambassadors
Roderick Osborne
Ambassador
Over the 14 years Rod has been an Ambassador, he has seen the job change a lot: the workers have transitioned from using simple tools like shovels and picks to having sophisticated machines and heavy equipment at their disposal.
But their most powerful tool is teamwork. As a Team Leader, Rod begins the day with a briefing of the daily tasks. He listens to his co-workers’ questions and concerns. “I always say, there are no dumb questions,” he smiles. He enjoys the daily challenge of getting a plan, deciding how they will tackle the day, and being around the team. “Coming to work is a joy. Coworkers give me motivation,” he says. “I respect them, and they respect me.”
“Coworkers give me motivation. I respect them, and they respect me.”
That kind of pride is a hallmark of the Ambassadors. They are very well respected everywhere, by residents, store owners, and visitors to the city. “Everybody respects yellow and black.”
Outside the job, Rod’s priority is his family. His eight-year-old son is the light of his life. Along with his wife, they attend church and take time to enjoy the pleasures NDD can offer: such as the parks, the petting zoo, and the many family-oriented events.
Favorite NDD event:
The Holiday Tree Lighting
Adrian Chaney
Ambassador
As an Ambassador, Adrian is aware of the important role he plays in NDD. He understands that people depend on the Ambassadors, and he takes pride in meeting those expectations. He has been on the job for six years; being elected to Team Leader has been a career highlight.
He enjoys the challenge of being a Team Leader: dealing with all the different types of personalities and situations. Adrian has a strong appreciation of individuality, which helps him to succeed as a Team Leader. “Everybody is different,” he explains, “so I deal with everybody on a different level.” He is proud of his team, and he enjoys delivering great service and receiving all the compliments they get. “I’m a motivated person,” he says. “I like making the city look good.”
In his free time, Adrian takes advantage of the events NDD offers. He loves to bring his young son to the Downtown Market and the Holiday Tree Lighting.
Favorite quote:
Teamwork makes the dream work.
“I’m a motivated person. I like making the city look good.”