I have known, admired and respected Patsy Scott for more than 20 years. Our friendship has often tested Patsy's patience, endurance and sense of humor. She instills in everyone, including me, a desire to better themselves, and to challenge themselves every day to thrive and succeed. Patsy shares these ideals by her own example.

Soon after the recent death of her husband, Joe, I saw Patsy on the local TV news. She was participating in a meeting for the Urban Improvement of Augusta-Richmond County. At a time when she is grieving her greatest loss, Patsy continues to take time to serve our community.

Patsy is a retired registered nurse from the VA Medical Center. When Patsy Scott decided to run for a seat on Richmond County's school board, a mutual friend asked me if I would write a letter to the editor in support of Patsy Scott. I said that I would be honored to introduce Patsy to any Augustans who may not know her.

I already had composed a letter in support of Patsy Scott -- a reverent task taken, by me, with much thought for the best candidate. She is a perfect choice for a school board member: a great role model for our students and an invaluable cohesive force in our community.

The Richmond County Board of Education needs Patsy. She is intelligent, open-minded and is willing to compromise for the greater benefit of our students. She is a recipe for an efficient school board member and will create a common path for everyone's mutual goal -- to inspire and provide for our students' educational growth, self-respect and success in life.

My only choice for District 5 Richmond County Board of Education member is Patsy Scott: my friend, my colleague, my rock.

Don Tate, Evans