A vet who grew up in Schroon Lake has won approval to open an elephant preserve at his home in Hope, Maine.

Jim Laurita’s passion for elephants began when he began working for a circus – and ironically, the elephant that he hopes to care for at his new facility, Rosie, was one of the first he worked with decades ago.

Jim’s incredible journey began in 1977 when he joined the Carson and Barnes Circus with his brother Tom as a juggler. In his off hours he started working with elephants and eventually became the elephant handler.  You can read more of Jim’s story here.

Did you know Jim or Tom back in the day? Share your memories in comments.