The 2025 Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Court (Provided photo)

To the editor:

What an amazing first couple weeks of February we had with all this snow and an unbelievable Winter Carnival in Saranac Lake. Hopefully everyone was able to enjoy many of the events during carnival and had a blast.

The parents of the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Court are very humbled and appreciative to have our children experience so many great memories and the smiles we saw are forever etched in our minds. This community embraced the court and our children with cheers, applause and celebration. We witnessed our kids engage and respond with high energy and pride.

None of this could have been possible without the dedication of many volunteers. Two individuals who stood out in their commitment to bringing our kids to their potential were Katie Fischer and Vanessa Pillen.

Many of these seniors had never danced before, and did not have much genetic guidance in assisting either. Vanessa not only showed them how to dance with a partner, but more importantly gave them confidence in leaving their comfort zone for solo performances as well. They have become much stronger young adults after this process and we thank you.

Katie Fischer organized a group of 14 young adults who play sports, have jobs and occasionally want to be lazy. She guided them on fundraising, commitment and personal growth. Katie also offered her home, her time and her dedication to ensuring they were feeling happy, comfortable and supported throughout a long 4-month process.

The moments as parents that feel the best is watching our children have great successes, to which they did these last two weeks. A better moment as parents is watching the people who have committed so much time and effort to the growth of our kids watch them perform. It was very clear through the tears and emotions; how very proud they are of our children.

We forever appreciate you both, and thank you so much for your commitment to them.

P.S. A special thanks to Sue Rice for capturing it all in photos for us.

Sincerely,

Jodi Gunther and the parents of the seniors on the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Court

Saranac Lake