Local taxi operator, Mr. Philmore Lake, has made many contributions to The Valley Primary School in recent years. He has a strong passion for this school, in particular, because as a stern believer in the importance of education, he has been quite impressed by the value of the school’s contribution to his son’s educational upbringing.
On the morning of Tuesday, March 26th, Mr. Lake acted as a medium through which several mini lap-top computers and other essential school supplies were donated to the students. The items were generously provided by Mr. Austin Marxe and his wife Dianne, of New York, who have been frequenting Anguilla on vacations for some 25 years.
Mr. & Mrs. Marxe became well acquainted with Philmore as a taxi driver over the years, and his persona and hospitality have prompted them to make him their personal chauffeur whenever they are on the island.
Philmore explained the story behind the Marxe’s donation to the school: “It is always my desire to make contributions to Valley Primary. I have contributed to certain causes in the past, and I intend to continue.
“One day, last December, while driving Mr. Marxe and his wonderful wife, he asked, ‘Mr. Lake what can I do for you?’ I answered, ‘Well not for me, sir, but there is The Valley Primary School which I support heartily, and I would appreciate some form of donation for the students there.’ As a consequence, they decided to send the school these laptops and erasable markers, and this is only the smoke, ‘cause there is more to come.”
Tr. Toniquewah Ruan, teacher of Grade 5, was the recipient of the supplies on behalf of the students of her class. She said: “People donating to our school are always highly appreciated. This is a community school, and I am always so grateful for Philmore’s help because he is one who always says yes, no matter how big or small the need is. So, indeed, today I would like to thank the Marxe’s through him, who has influenced the presentation of these much needed items for our students.”
Mr. Michael Skellekie, the school’s principal, was also on hand to express his appreciation to Philmore and the Marxe’s: “I am as happy as Tr. Toniquewah today,” he said. “I am grateful that this presentation can be made on behalf of Mr. Austin Marxe. Philmore, please let Mr. Marxe know that we are very appreciative of this. These devices will come in very useful for our students. I really want to thank Philmore for looking out for our school. This is a large school and we do have many needs, but people like Philmore loves us, and he has done lots in the past for the school. We look forward for him and his partners to continue these worthwhile gestures.”
The Anguillian wishes to applaud Mr. Lake for his selfless, contributions to the school, and trusts that he would be encouraged to keep up the benevolent spirit.
– Staff Reporter, James R. Harrigan
