The May 25 edition of your newspaper contained an article concerning a new television that Elloree Elementary/Middle School received from the Lake Marion Kiwanis Club. I am so grateful for the support of the Lake Marion Kiwanis Club. They are a wonderful partner for our school. As the article explained, they have initiated the Terrific Kids Program and helped us with other successful projects.

Many people may not have read the article carefully and do not realize that we received the television because one of their members, Mr. Richard Zink, bought a ticket in the raffle and put our school’s name on it. Putting the school’s name on that raffle ticket was just the latest way he has helped the children and teachers at our school. This was so typical of Mr. Zink. He has been Elloree Elementary/Middle School’s friend for many years.

Many of us upon reaching retirement may find joy in “putting our feet up” and taking life easy. Mr. Zink finds joy in helping others. He always makes sure that the lists for the Terrific Kids Program are in the hands of the right people and that Elloree Elementary/Middle School is a part of any project that the Lake Marion Kiwanis Club sponsors or supports. For many years he read to classes and became a friend to us all. Through his volunteer efforts, many others have taken an interest in supporting our school.

Mr. Zink has become a role model for all of us. You don’t seriously think that only children need role models? The faculty and staff also see Mr. Zink as a role model. He challenges each of us to make full use of every minute of life, to never overlook any opportunity to help others.

Mr. Richard Zink found us because he wanted to help children. We will be eternally grateful for his kindness and concern for children. As a friend of mine says, he is responsible for many “positive childhood memories” and for gently reminding adults that service to others is the greatest gift.

 - Frankie E. Locklair, Administrative Assistant Elloree Elementary/Middle School, Holly Hill

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