The Gesa Carousel of Dreams just completed it’s first year of operation. With 45 horses, three chariots, a cougar and a husky; rounding boards featuring artwork by Tri-City photographer John Clement; the carousel is “a gorgeous piece of equipment,” to quote Eric Van Winkle, departing executive director of the Three Rivers Carousel Foundation.
Major donors like Gesa Credit Union, Toyota of Tri-Cities and Baker Produce, along with hundreds of other donors and volunteers, made the Carousel of Dreams a reality. But it takes more than money to make dreams come true, it takes leadership. Van Winkle has been a passionate champion of the project from concept through fund-raising, construction and a critical first year of operation. He deserves our gratitude and best wishes as he moves on to his next adventure.
Taking over for Van Winkle next week will be Parker Hodge. Hodge has served this community in many ways for many years, including being an important member of the Tri-City Herald leadership team. We’ll miss him at the Herald, but we’re happy to know that our carousel will be in such capable hands.