craigdailypress.com

Traditionally, carnivals in Craig are reserved for holidays - but not this week.

On Monday, 13 crew members from Brown's Amusements worked on setting up a carnival on the corner of Ranney and Fourth streets.

"Just because Craig needs entertainment," said Pete Pederson, manager of Brown's Amusements, about why the company decided to bring the carnival to Craig this week. "All I hear from these kids is there's nothing to do around here."

Brown's Amusements, based in Mesa, Ariz., sets up carnival rides during Grand Old West Days every Memorial Day weekend in Craig.

The company also sets up other carnivals across Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Arizona.

This week will be the first time the company has set up a carnival in Craig besides the one during Memorial Day weekend.

This week's carnival will be smaller than its GOWD version, with a few less rides and no food.

However, if it goes well, Brown's Amusements may offer more of them, Pederson said.

During set-up Monday, crew members unloaded the rides from at least four semitrailers and worked to get the rides set up, connecting pipes and tubes and making the implements sturdy.

By today, the rides will be ready to clean and test.

The carnival starts at 5 p.m. Wednesday and goes through Saturday.

Pederson said the company operates under tough state guidelines to make sure passengers are safe.

Among the rides that will be available are the swinger, Indy cars, the bulldozer, and several others.

Two houses also are being set up - a funhouse called the Thrasher and a haunted house.

Pederson said the smaller carnival is geared slightly more toward younger children but that he hopes many residents stop by.

There is no admission price, but each ride costs $1, or people can purchase a daily wristband for unlimited rides for $20.

"I invite everyone," Pederson said. "I expect everyone to come."

Yesenia Robles can be reached at 875-1790.