In December 2018, Pine Island Elementary School hosted the Hoop Shoot sponsored by Greater Pine Island Elks Lodge #2781. During the competition, SRO Cpl. W. Rivera noticed that the school’s basketballs were worn and in need of replacement. After the Hoop Shoot, Rivera was speaking with a lodge member about the school’s need for new basketballs. Lodge Exalted Ruler, Judy Hopkins, overheard the conversation and agreed to help with the purchase and donation of 10 new basketballs. The balls were purchased with funds from Greater Pine Island Lodge’s charitable trust and presented them to the school Jan. 24.
Pictured at the basketball presentation to Pine Island Elementary School by Greater Pine Island Elks Lodge Jan 24 are Cpl. W. Rivera, SRO; Judy Hopkins, Exalted Ruler; Lee Wilbur, Treasurer; S. Hook, principal; and J. Whitt, coach/PE teacher.