Six years ago, when the Poulsbo Noon Lions roared that their beloved park at scenic 6th Avenue and Fjord Drive was in need of improving, the community heard them loud and clear. It was quite an undertaking as neighbors dove into the effort, working in concert with the city to poll youngsters on what amenities they would like at the park.

It was quite innovative because local kids helped determine what equipment they wanted to play on, making their own mark on the park.

Unfortunately, others have done the same since, breaking the merry-go-round there for the second time. The first go-round, vandals were to blame.

Now, no one seems to know — or rather no one’s coming forward with information about — who busted it. Misuse or outright vandalism, the result was the same.

This might seem like a “who cares?” issue to some. It’s broke, the city will pay for its repair, end of story, right?

Not really.

This is a community park after all and it’s a shame when a small number of residents ruin such a popular amenity for everyone else. It’s an even bigger shame when they get away with it.

It’d be nice if they realized that the merry-go-round isn’t just a toy — it’s a reflection of North Kitsap and therefore a reflection of themselves.

The amenity was the top choice of hundreds of local children back when the renovation plan was just getting started and even though it was one of the more expensive items on the wish list, it was granted by the city.

When the project was a go, the Lions showed their community pride and worked diligently to put the beautiful, new playground together.

Now its image has been marred.

Again.

But the merry-go-round is not without its life lessons and someday those who broke it will discover that what goes around, comes around.