Grand Opening Ceremony | The Adirondack Carousel

opening-event

The bell rang and there was no looking back!

On Saturday, May 26, we opened our doors, rang the bell and the magic began as we started the first ride. What was the dream of one local woman in 2001 is now a reality powered by a vision to enrich the lives, the education, and the joy of children near and far (and of all ages) while contributing to the local economy as a community family member.

As the crowd grew deeper and deeper outside the pavilion, Capital Campaign Director, Marge Glowa greeted them and expressed gratitude and thanks to the many, many “community hands” that made it all possible. She introduced visiting New York State Senator Betty Little, third-grader Adam Ellithorpe (who thanked the Senator for the new playground equipment), Congressman Bill Owens, Representative Janet Dupree, Saranac Lake Mayor Clyde Rabidou, and 6th grade local volunteer Skylar Snyder.

Paula Hameline, the Carousel’s new executive director, welcomed all visitors and stepped aside as the ribbon held by 15 elementary school students (representing all SL students who named the Carousel animals) was cut by Maria Clark (the local high school student who designed the signature Carousel t-shirt), and the doors were opened. The honor of the first ride went to the Carousel Carvers, second ride to the elementary students, and third ride to the Carousel artists. Formalities out of the way, all rides for the day were free, courtesy of Stewarts Shops, and there was still a line at the end of the night. A Grand Time was had by all!