To the Editor,
It feels strange to think that it’s three years after COVID and many of us are still struggling to find our way. Yet its true. The past few years have left many feeling isolated, angry, and depressed. So, when the carnival rolled into town with its bright lights, nostalgic concessions, and over the top rides it was an awakening for many and a homecoming for those who grew up here. It reminded us how important community events are to people’s well-being.
Bringing back an event that had not occurred in over 13 years was no small feat. It required the support of our entire community including business owners, friends, neighbors, local officials, and that’s just what happened. I would send out a note on Manchester’s Facebook page, the What, When, Where, How, and 10 seconds later I would have at least 15 people offering help whether it was donating a tent, dropping & picking up tables, or delivering hay.
This group of people also became a hub for those who grew up here to share memories of past carnivals. The stories and memories shared were so vivid and rich with details that it became more than a fundraiser for myself and Tyler Pinstein, my partner in crime, it became a mission for us. We were both equally committed to giving people a chance to relive the glory days while also ensuring that younger generations could begin to develop memories of their own. Together, along with the help of my husband and Brian Sollosy we were able to create an experience that reconnected people, galvanized our tiny town, celebrated local, and raised money for Manchester/Essex Athletics. It truly was amazing, and Tyler and I want to thank all of you for coming and sharing the experience with us.
The best way to show our love and support is to share your words. We wanted to take them from online and bring them to a place where they would be preserved and protected. No better place than The Cricket.
I have kept every email, text message, messenger and Facebook comment, because for anyone who took the time to write a note, I wanted them to know it mattered, and it reminded me on those days where I was burnt out and feeling defeated to keep going.
This event was created for you, your children, grandchildren, and friends. A way to reconnect as a community and remind us that although we may be from different areas, different generations we all want to be happy and gather in a place with our families where we can smile, laugh, and maybe even scream a little.
Few Comments from Friends of MBTS:
Peter Koslowski:
Countless memories…helped them set up, ran a few rides from time to time, helped them tear down and got their subs and coffee for many of the Carni’s. I ate free lol. Interesting times when the carnival came the very end of June and August every summer for years.
Kathy Filias-Buroughs:
When we were kids the American Legion ran the carnival over 4th of July culminating with a bonfire at the end of Masconomo Parking lot. The firemen ran a similar carnival over Labor Day. Wish I could remember when they stopped. By the late 1980’s the Boosters had taken over and had the 4th carnival
Carol Beatty:
I’m so glad the carnival is coming back! So many great memories from the 4th of July celebrations 45+ years ago. Manchester sure knew how to do it.
Melissa Villa
We had so much fun and are so excited to go back. It was perfect. Thank You for your hard work!!
Stephanie Bell Rogers
You guys rock! So impressive and inspiring. We have great memories of the
carnival when the kids were little. Love that you all are bringing it back for so many families.
Christine Clifford Comparato
Can’t wait. Amazing! You can’t imagine the memories I have of the carnival! So special!!! Hope to see you there.
So, thank you MBTS for trusting us with this mission. Until next year….
Emily McCavanagh
Manchester
