Imagine looking back into 2012 and having to admit to ourselves that we passed on the opportunity to bring to this community one of the last few hand-carved carousels left in the world today, especially knowing the horses had been restored, a safe location was approved and there was a plan in place that would not cost taxpayers any additional dollars.
The good news is the Carousel Foundation Board is unwilling to accept that outcome and with the renewed support from the City of Kennewick we are moving ahead.
Common sense and a look at the facts shows us the best location is the Southridge Sports and Events Complex at 27th and Highway 395 in south Kennewick. It's a gateway to this community and a growth area that soon will be a destination point we can really enjoy with family and friends.
In terms of a timeline, it appears that these projects take a decade or more which tells us we're right on schedule. With the horses already professionally restored it leaves only the final steps of building a structure and assembling the carousel.
It's a rare occasion that we get the opportunity to be involved with something as significant as the restoration and development of a one hundred year old carousel. This truly will become a community treasure when it's completed and we feel compelled to get involved in the completion of this legacy project.
We recognize that many before us have shared this vision and because of their commitment we are able to take these final steps. Thanks to those who had the vision to start this project, the city of Kennewick and the members of its city council for seeing this vision and having the patience needed to bring this kind of legacy project to fruition. All legacy supporters have been recorded and the goal is to make sure no supporter will ever be forgotten.
In a world where we accept "too big to fail," this is too important to fail. Now is the time for this community to act, rather than wait to be asked. It's time for each of us to step forward and say "here is how I can help complete this community treasure." If we raised $5 for every Tri-Citian it would be funded for eternity. Now that's what leaving a legacy is all about.
If you want to know more, go to our website at www.carouselproject.org or email me at ricvanwinkle@townsquaremedia.com. We need board and/or committee members, ambassadors for all kinds of projects big and small and all donations are welcome. The only requirement to be part of this legacy community project today is a passion to complete the carousel.
Did you know that during the current restoration of the horses, a hand-carved cougar and a husky were added to the herd. I can't wait to ride them all.
-- Eric Van Winkle, Carousel Foundation Board Chair
