COEUR d'ALENE - Six months ago, businessman Dean Haagenson and artist Terry Lee decided to honor the often-overlooked foundation of our country: "The American Worker."

Thanks to Haagenson and his wife, Cindy, the bronze sculpture which was created by Lee, "The American Worker," won't go unnoticed in Coeur d'Alene.

The 6-foot statue was set in a deep concrete base just west of the intersection of Sixth Street and Front Avenue. It is on the promenade of McEuen Park, which was just remodeled by Haagenson's company, Contractors Northwest Inc.

Haagenson donated the $50,000 piece to the city in honor of all Americans who work behind the scenes to make our country a better place for all - often for little or no recognition.

The plaque at the foot of the bronze reads: "Dedicated to the farmers, loggers, miners, construction workers, factory workers and all who build America. Thank You. You have made our country great and prosperous." - Dean and Cindy Haagenson.

Lee said on Thursday that he was honored to be commissioned for the piece of art.

"The fact that it was specifically designed to pay homage to the American worker who doesn't get recognition meant something to me," Lee said. "It has a respect element to it. A respect for the people who are the gears that make American run."

Lee said he tried to capture and convey that in sculpting the piece. He is proud to have it standing in downtown Coeur d'Alene.

Lee's other works are the Mudgy and Millie sculptures, which are also downtown.

"Mudgy and Millie have been an exceptional big hit," he said, adding that tourists and locals are taking pictures with the sculptures all the time. "I think this will have a similar effect on a much more profound level."

Lee said he is proud to be a part of the Coeur d'Alene art scene.

"I think it is a real coup for our city," he said. "It's kind of fun and it really sets us apart from other cities."

Haagenson said he is pleased with the sculpture.

"I think it turned out great," he said. "I took a little pride in doing this, but my main motivation is to truly honor the people who I think don't always get the recognition they deserve."

Haagenson said he also enjoyed working with Lee on the project.

"I think he was pretty pleased with that commission," he said.