We’re in the process of making one very important addition to the Hall of Fame exhibit at the Carlsbad Museum. Several years ago, we held an induction ceremony for Bob and Barbara Forrest. We talked about Bob’s political career in Carlsbad as a mayor and city councilor, but the focus of the ceremony was largely about the fact that Bob and Barbara were inspired by their son, Gary, to establish a facility for those with special needs. The exhibit includes a beautiful picture of Bob, Barbara and Gary together.
Gary sadly passed away last year at the age of 59. The entire community mourned his passing. At around the same time, we received a letter from two Carlsbad residents, Mike Currier and Gene Harbaugh, suggesting that we include Gary in the hall of fame.
We thought this was an excellent idea, and we are in the process of modifying the “Bob and Gary Forrest” exhibit into the “Bob Forrest Family” exhibit, to include Bob, Barbara and Gary.
Gary was born in 1963. He grew up in a loving home with his parents and brothers, Bobby and Mike. Inspired by Gary, CARC was established in 1973. Bob and Barbara remain on the CARC Inc. board to this day. The facility has continued to flourish and often serves as a model for other establishments seeking to build similar programs.
While Gary was an inspiration that led to the establishment of CARC, he himself was an inspiration to everyone he met. He was an active participant in the Special Olympics, and the modifications we’re making to the display will include some of the awards he’s received. He worked at CARC and for CNB Bank, and he was always respected for his work ethic. We’re also going to put up a certificate honoring his years of service in the workforce. He was a huge fan of the Dallas Cowboys and always enjoyed stopping for a Dr. Pepper with his father.
Thank you to Mike Currier and Gene Harbaugh for this excellent recommendation. The City of Carlsbad is very honored to add Gary Forrest to our hall of fame exhibit. We will be holding an induction ceremony soon, once the modifications to the exhibit have been made. Thanks to Bob and Barbara for all of their assistance.
Our Hall of Fame committee met several months ago, and we are in the process of developing additional displays for the well deserving individuals who were selected.
Sincerely,
Carlsbad Mayor Dale Janway