To the editor:

On Jan. 30, Kennebunk Elementary School Parent Association (KEPTA) held a Winter Carnival. Through the help of volunteers, we provided our school community with live animal and magic shows, live theater, arts and crafts and many more carnival activities. We had a wonderful turnout of parents, students, and teachers. While the carnival was lots of fun and very successful, we do have some bad news.
The Winter Carnival is a low cost event for families of Kennebunk and not a fundraiser. Our intention was to cover our costs only. During the course of the event $1,000 was stolen from KEPTA’s fund as well as volunteers’ personal belongings. The Kennebunk police were notified and reported to the scene. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Kennebunk Police Department tips line at 985-2102, ext. 1622. Anonymous e-mail tips can also be submitted on the department’s site, www.Kennebunkpolice.maine.org.
We are deeply saddened by this situation. Our hope is that the money will be returned and can be put to its intended use to benefit the children of Kennebunk Elementary School and Sea Road School.
We will not let this theft deter our mission to enhance the educational and social experiences of each and every elementary school child. We thank you for your continued support.

Melanie Shmalo, KEPTA president
Cynthia Furber, KEPTA vice president and carnival committee chairman