What’s New at the Carousel! We also consider ourselves fortunate in having been gifted with a collection of antique carousel parts to use in the replacement of our worn components. Replacement began during our annual shutdown period in January and will continue on a regular basis over time.
As we enter into our 29th year in operation, we find ourselves facing the realities of the time, which include the necessity to engage in the repair and refurbishment of our 106 year old Carousel framework. Over so many years of continual motion, parts understandably begin to wear out. In the past, we have been fortunate to have an eager team of volunteers ready and willing to come forward and tackle any task needed. We are now, however, facing the reality that people, like machines, also wear out over time and our team of volunteers, while still strong in the faith and supportive of the dream, are no longer able to step up as they have for so many years. We have now found it necessary to hire a Carousel Maintenance Engineer to oversee the refurbishment project and to keep a continual eye on the machinery. We are fortunate to have found an enthusiastic young man, Gregor Banister, who is excited to take on this task!
We can already feel and hear the difference in a much smoother and quieter ride and we look forward with great anticipation to the additional improvements that we are sure to experience! A major refurbishment and the hiring of a Maintenance Engineer, however, doesn’t come cheap and we are now busy brainstorming new ideas to generate income and to invite our community to be involved in the process. As we approach our 30th anniversary, we look back on the rich history of A Carousel For Missoula, at the amazing creation that became a reality due to a community’s willingness to support the dream of a dreamer, a man who knew what a gift the Carousel would be to our community and what it would come to mean to those who experience its magic. The Carousel is so much more than just a fun place to bring the kids. It represents all that makes Missoula special. The Carousel embodies joy and optimism and community spirit. It is a testament to what can be accomplished when people join forces for good. cont. on page 2