First-ever Rosedale carnival draws in crowd despite a rainy start

Tristen Trusiak patiently swayed her fishing pole in a kiddie pool full of prizes before reeling in another catch. The 9-year-old had taken advantage of the carnival games at the the Rosedale Carnival as her mom, Beth Bosco accompanied her.

“She’s been winning prizes all night,” said Bosco of Springdale, laughing.

The two were visiting for the first day of the carnival, which is being held at 5806 Verona Road in Penn Hills.

The carnival will run through July 3 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. each night.

The carnival is a collaborative fundraising effort between the Rosedale Civic Association and Rosedale Volunteer Fire Department No. 2.

Funds raised by the Rosedale Civic Association will go toward renovation of the Rosedale Volunteer Fire Department Park, which will cost an estimated $150,000. The association held a Chinese auction to encourage attendees to contribute funds. A percentage of the money going toward rides will also be donated to the park renovation.

Renovations include a new stage canopy, playground revitalization and a new walking path.

“Our goal is to keep generating revenue to support these kinds of projects for our community,” said John Petrucci, Rosedale Civic Association president.

The Rosedale Volunteer Fire Department held a separate fundraiser to help raise money for fire equipment and department activities. The fire department held a 50/50 raffle, lotto tip board and instant bingo.

Fire department president Derek Deakins said the money will greatly benefit the department, which has been stretched thin on funds. Deakins said the department is grateful for the association’s help.

“Having more manpower to receive grants and raising funds for non-emergency related services is a big help,” Deakins said.

The off-and-on rain didn’t damper the fun as attendees enjoyed the attractions. Various food vendors offered carnival staples, such as funnel cakes, friend Oreos, popcorn and hot dogs.

There were also plenty of rides and games to keep families entertained. Kids were sliding down the giant slide or catching a thrill from the mini-dragon roller coaster. Families took a chance at winning a prize at the various game booths.

Rosedale resident Monica Garrison lives around the corner from where the carnival was being held. She brought her 10-year-old son and 13-year-old daughter.

“Despite the rain, it was nice to get outside to attend an event that’s helping with a great cause,” she said.

Rosedale resident Joe Milfeit, who served as firefighter for the area for 20 years, was happy to see something fun and beneficial brought to the community.

“This is a good idea to bring something back into the community, especially to help the fire department’s fundraiser,” he said.