THUNDER BAY — The Friend of Chippewa Park Save Our Carousel committee is looking to raise the $30,000 it still needs in order to reach its $1.4 million goal.
The committee is now giving supporters a chance to contribute by buying large or small paw prints that will be attached to a replica image of Horse 15B which will go on permanent display at the carousel.
Horse 15B, which features the image of a puppy on its saddle, has been designated Favourite Animal Companion.
Donna Gilhooly, the committee's co-chair, said "We are excited to announce that we have created an opportunity for people to memorialize their favour animal companion as part of the restoration."
Large paw prints are available for $50.00 each, while small prints sell for $25.00 online, at www.saveourcarousel.com.
The committee has also created other opportunities for the public to participate.
It's expanded the number of horses on which individuals can choose a particular feature to designate as their own through their donation, from horseshoes to the saddle blanket and reins.
A total of 20 horses are now available for people to donate to the restoration by "buying" one of the elements.
A range of carousel merchandise continues to be available, from t-shirts to Christmas ornaments.
The money that's raised will go toward the remaining aspects of the restoration, including purchase of materials and services.
Construction of the replacement chariots will resume this fall once Hammarskjold High School reopens.
The painting of iconic scenes on the 16 rounding boards located on the upper exterior of the carousel will also be completed by students at Superior Collegiate.
All the restoration work is expected to be completed by the spring of 2021.
