I am impressed with the many stories written about how Steve Widmyer has quietly and effectively helped businesses, schools, and youth in our community. Not long ago Mary Souza’s comments about Steve were “Steve Widmyer, (has) never surfaced as politically or financially trying to influence the McEuen park plan. (He) does not sit on any of the committees involved, nor any other local boards or commissions that I know of.” But as soon as Steve Widmyer opposes Mary (and the Reganites) he becomes part of the “old boys club,” “same old, same old” and part of the “conspiracy.”

The list of names of people in the community Mary has dissed, accused, and slandered is huge. Just a few of those names are Charlie and Susan Nipp, Steve and Judy Meyer, Scott and MaryLou Reed, Jim Elder, Denny Davis, Jack Riggs, Ed Morse, and Jon Hippler. Also interesting are how many times those same names appear as donors and sponsors of everything including the library, Kroc center, Hospice House, NIC, humanities, theatre, opera, and/or humane society. Rarely, if ever, do you see the name Souza as a donor or supporter.

Mary has done a great job dividing the community into those who do things, and those who complain about things. She should rename herself “The Great Divider” — not what our city needs for a mayor.

MARY SANDERSON

Coeur d’Alene