President's Message - Reprinted from the Spring 2009 Merry-Go-Roundup

Grabbing for the Brass Ring

By Bette Largent

This issue is meant to be fun for all, while focusing on operational assistance for our members who are responsible for keeping their carousels running and profitable. The theme is centered on some new discoveries and new innovations that have begun to emerge from the phrase "grabbing for the brass ring." Time and time again, the operating carousels of today are proving they know how to go for this goal whether they have a traditional carousel ring arm or not.

There are new challenges that face our cherished form of entertainment regardless of their operational status - waiting in the wings for their new home or trying to operate profitably in present locations. Perhaps it is because we do go round and round that we continue to think outside the box. "Stay-cation" has become the catch phrase of the day, as everyone deals with our economic realities while searching for ways to enjoy their summer. Our carousels are family oriented, offer magical rides, and with the right promotion can make a special and entertaining summer for many families.

We are non-allergenic, state of the art, and appeal to multi-generations. And there is nothing more green that a recycled carousel! No special equipment or training is needed to ride and to have some fun! Carousels have become a growth industry of both rescued carousels and new carousels, both commercially and community carved. Yes, we will continue to celebrate our grab for the brass ring, as we are the best ride in town, state, or region. Enjoy and take a ride on a merry-go-round and go for the gold with us this summer!