To the editor:

I pen this letter with a heavy heart,

As a fox, I must speak up and impart,

The shocking news that left me in dismay,

For I, Stormy the sweet Fox, was pushed away.

I sought to be the village’s mascot true,

Representing Red Storm with pride and hue,

Yet accusations came, unfair and unjust,

That I embodied traits of cunning and lust.

Oh, how absurd, this false portrayal,

To deem me sly and sneaky, what a betrayal,

I stand here innocent, with pure intentions,

To cheer the team with joy and no pretensions.

My family name, “Fox,” they dare replace,

With vulgar words that bring disgrace,

But I assure you, dear editor, it’s not my aim,

To perpetuate a word that’s crass and profane.

I simply yearned to raise my kits with grace,

In a world that doesn’t twist words in haste,

Where “foxy” doesn’t imply allure or lust,

But signifies nimbleness and spirit robust.

Oh, how I longed to represent with pride,

Red Storm’s legacy, fierce and North Country wide,

To bring joy and cheer, my only mission,

And foster unity, beyond division.

I’m just a humble fox, full of grace,

Seeking a chance in this sacred space,

To embody the values we hold so dear,

And banish misconceptions, loud and clear.

So I extend my sincerest luck to the finalists three,

The moose, red-tailed hawk, and storm hero, you see.

May they carry the banner with pride and might,

Representing SL Red Storm with joy and light.

As I bid farewell to my mascot dream,

Know that I still cherish this Red Storm team.

For in my heart, I’ll forever be part,

Of Saranac Lake’s legacy, etched on my heart.

With grace and joy, I roam through the trees,

Watching over the team with a spirit that frees.

Though not as their mascot, I’ll still stand tall,

A sweet fox, cheering loudly for one and for all.

Yours sincerely, Stormy the Fox.

Vanessa Pillen

Saranac Lake