Senior shuttle adds another service day

Shuttle service will be more readily available to those who have difficulty getting around.
By SEAN BARRON
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
CANFIELD -- Certain fairgoers will find going through this year's Canfield Fair easier.
They also will find it less strenuous and more convenient.
For the first time, the six-year-old Canfield Fair Senior Shuttle will operate inside the fairgrounds on Wednesday and Friday during the fair instead of Friday only, said Bev Fisher, fair manager.
Parking lot shuttle: She added that each day of the fair, shuttle service will be available to get people from the parking lot areas to the entrance.
The service, which consists of 13 shuttles altogether, will be available to senior citizens, those with disabilities or others who have difficulty walking around the fairgrounds, Fisher said.
Junior fair board members will operate the shuttles, taking people to any of the 11 designated stops within the fair. Riders also will be given maps to help them decide where they can go.
"Maps with numbers on the reverse side will tell what is available near each stop," Fisher said.
Smaller crowds: Wednesday and Friday were chosen because of smaller fair crowds and because those days are easier for many nursing homes, retirement centers and other facilities to get their residents out, Fisher explained.
Even though the shuttle is not wheelchair accessible, operators will be on hand to help people off and on, including helping someone in or out of a wheelchair if necessary, she said.
Fisher predicted the shuttle service will provide peace of mind for seniors, along with a scenic, less-tiring way to see many of the fair's attractions.
"Many senior citizens like their independence, but want to know if something happens, there's help," she said.
Fisher added being in charge of the shuttle and its occupants will help the 14- to 18-year-old junior board members take on various challenges and responsibilities.
"They'll learn to adapt to different situations and learn what to do without running to an adult for advice or help," Fisher said.
The Canfield Fair Senior Shuttle will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days.
barron@vindy.com