This month's Steel Valley Nationals will be dedicated to U.S. military

Budget constraints are forcing changes in law enforcement for the event.
CANFIELD -- The Steel Valley Nationals returns to the Canfield Fairgrounds May 27-29. This marks the nationals' second fairgrounds show.
Dave Ehret of Dave & amp; Ed's Super Auto Events of Canton said this year's nationals is dedicated to the armed forces. Entry is $5 for adults and free for children 12 and younger.
"We try to make this a very family-oriented event," Ehret said.
One element expected to bring crowds is the vintage car show. It's been 43 years since the vintage cars raced at the fairgrounds, he said.
"People are coming from all over the country for this," Ehret said.
But Boardman officials emphasize that the Steel Valley Nationals are at the Canfield Fairgrounds, not on U.S. Route 224.
"Boardman is thrilled to see this show come back to Canfield," said Tom Costello, a Boardman trustee.
He and Ehret have met to try to come up with ideas to lessen the traffic congestion and maintain order.
Ehret said it's not the people bringing their cars to the event that cause problems. But the event gives people, including young people who are looking for a good time, a place to go.
They want to discourage what he called a Mardi Gras-like atmosphere on the congested highway, Costello said.
Ehret said organizers are working to keep events such as cruise-ins to a certain time and place. That will allow some spectators to come, enjoy an event and return home, he said.
Law enforcement
Because of Mahoning County's budget crunch, the township won't be able to rely on the sheriff's department for additional manpower. Police Capt. Jerry Patterson expects 35 township officers to be working overtime to maintain vehicle and pedestrian traffic and keep control. Some will be in plain clothes.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Canfield Post, also will provide personnel to control traffic.
There were some problems last year with people drinking alcohol, authorities said.
During last year's nationals, both Shields and Western Reserve roads were closed for construction, adding to the vehicle load on Route 224. Both of those roads being open should help alleviate some traffic tie-ups, Patterson said.
Left turns will be restricted to certain locations during the event. Specifics will be announced as the event nears.