Friends with Disabilities Day a success at Lincoln Fair
Published 3:00 pm Wednesday, July 3, 2024
Lincoln schools cheerleaders pose with Marshall of the Paw Patrol. Photo by Lance Gaither
A misting station helped people beat the heat. Photo by Lance Gaither
Games were open in addition to rides. Photo by Lance Gaither
Ridegoers throw their hands up before the ride drops. Photo by Lance Gaither
Friends with Disabilities Day is some people’s first time going on a ride at the fair. Photo by Lance Gaither
Attendees go for a spin. Photo by Lance Gaither
A free lunch was provided. Photo by Lance Gaither
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lance.gaither@bluegrassnewsmedia.com
The Lincoln County Fair held the second annual Friends with Disabilities and Seniors Day on Friday, June 21, allowing people to enjoy the fair without the large crowds, noises, or lights. Lincoln County football players and cheerleaders assisted along with more than 50 other volunteers.
This year, nearly 500 people from multiple counties visited for the event. With Friends with Disabilities Day growing from last year, the day featured more rides and games, a karaoke contest, a sea lion show, and a sensory area. Free lunch was provided, along with fresh-made cotton candy.
“The turnout is fabulous,” said Lincoln County Fair Board Member Denise Bastin. “Everybody is enjoying it. There are smiles everywhere.”
The weather was hot, but a new misting station helped keep fairgoers cool. Lincoln Fair Director of Promotions Sadie Durham explained that the board tries to improve the fair yearly.
“It has been a wonderful day, we have a great crowd,” Durham said. “We start working after the fair every year to make it better next year. It takes a lot of people to put it on. Everyone puts in a helping hand, and it is a great day.”
The Lincoln County Fair was the first in the area to offer a day for those with special needs.
“There was a need for the families,” Bastin said. “Some of these kids and even adults have never been able to enjoy the fair at all. When you see someone jumping with joy because they have never gotten to experience going on a ride, it makes it all worth it.”
Lincoln County Schools is proud to support the Friends with Disabilities Day.
“We are proud of it and want to support it any way possible as a school system,” said Lincoln County Assistant Superintendent and volunteer Diana Hart. “We want to see as many families as possible take advantage. It is a special day.”
Sponsors of this year’s Friends with Disabilities Day were Hart Insurance, Aegis, Lincoln County Schools, Doodles and Dots, Leland Pike, Atomic Gym and Supplements, David and Betty Bridgeman, Martha and Denise Bastin, Big A** Fans, Lincoln County Fair board, and KISSEL Entertainment.
