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Mahoning County senior fair is a success
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Neighbors | Elise McKeown Skolnick.Ron Choo Choo Harver and Gary Bonkers Farrant were at the Senior Fair Aug. 10 to provide entertainment and laughter.
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Neighbors | Elise McKeown Skolnick.Lucille Hlas said that she attends the Senior Fair at Emmanual Community Church every year.
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Neighbors | Elise McKeown Skolnick.Boardman High School senior Brittany Best sang the National Anthem and several other songs at the Senior Fair Aug. 10.
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Neighbors | Elise McKeown Skolnick.Mona Behnke, director of Senior Independence, participated in the Senior Fair at Emmanual Community Church Aug. 10.
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Neighbors | Elise McKeown Skolnick.Cpl. Larry Braickman, Vice Commander Don Brown and Commander Fred Schrock, of VFW Post 9571, presented the flag at the Senior Fair Aug. 10.
By ELISE McKEOWN SKOLNICK
Seniors had an opportunity to learn about area services at a senior fair Aug. 10. The fifth annual Mahoning County Senior Fair, at Emmanual Community Church, included food, entertainment, prizes and vendors. It was sponsored by the Mahoning County Sheriff Senior Services Unit.
“I’ve participated in this fair for many years,” said Mona Behnke, director of the Senior Independence Center.
It’s important to let seniors know they’re not alone, Behnke said.
“There’s always somebody to share good times with, and bad times,” she added.
Hot dogs, popcorn, beverages and cookies were passed out free of charge. New to the event this year was free busing from downtown Youngstown, provided by WRTA.
“Everything’s free. There’s no out-of-pocket expense at all. It’s free for every senior,” said Mahoning County Sheriff’s Deputy Kay Lavelle, senior service coordinator, senior services unit. “They just have to come out and enjoy.”
A variety of organizations participated, including the Alzheimer’s Network, the Austintown Senior Center, Senior News, Easter Seals and Small World Cat and Dog Rescue. Many area senior providers offered free screenings. Participants were also given an assortment of items, including flags, pens, note pads and sewing kits. Casal Aveda Institute provided free manicures and arm massages.
“There’s so much information through the entire fair,” Behnke said. “It’s important to be part of this and reach out to the community and teach them everything that’s out there.”
The event included more than information, however. Brittany Best, a Boardman High School senior, sang the National Anthem and led the seniors in a sing-a-long of patriotic songs. The Aut Mori Grotto Clowns performed and the Mahoning County K-9 Unit and USA Dance gave demonstrations.