CAROUSEL: Not done yet

I was upset by recent letters by Betty Martin and Judy Norton regarding the carousel. It is certainly a case of no good deed going unpunished! I believe both ladies would have held their comments had they done any research about the carousel and its recent rebirth in Coeur d’Alene.

I am particularly offended due to my personal connection. My sister, Cari Fraser, is the president of the Carousel Foundation. I have had a front-row seat to the true cost of this beautiful gift. Cari and the dedicated Carousel Foundation Board (notably Rita Sims-Snyder, secretary), have sacrificed countless hours, generously donated their time, talents and treasures to ensure the return of this beautiful work of art to our city.

They have been at it for SIX years. They are volunteers. They are not done!

Betty and Judy, this project was not funded by the city. These ponies would be collecting dust in another state had a handful of hardworking, selfless individuals not taken it upon themselves to see to its safe return. They have raised funds, hired contractors, organized events, hired staff and worked with city officials. There is still much planned, and the improvements continue.

All of this takes hard work, time and money! Cari, Rita and the board deserve our deep gratitude, not our petty criticism. Ladies, it is not too late to apologize for your hurtful remarks. It is NEVER too late to send in a donation, or to volunteer. Go to cdacarousel.com to make your contribution.

LaDONNA BEAUMONT

Coeur d’Alene