The Chippewa County Fair in Kinross is in full swing with rides, food, vendors, displays, and of course animals.
On a sunny Thursday yesterday, it was a special day at the fairgrounds.
Those with special needs, and their families, were treated to free rides from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. without the added noise or loud people.
This is the fifth year the fair has held this event, and each year it has grown.
For the last four years, the Chippewa County Sheriff's Department has volunteered its time to help the event run smoothly.
After the rides, attendees had lunch provided for free at the Sheriff's Department's display.
Hot dogs, chips, potato salad, cookies and drinks were all provided.
"We are up this year. It was a really good turnout. It's fantastic," Sheriff Mike Bitnar said.
There were around a dozen volunteers just from the Sheriff's Department itself, but other organizations helped out such as the Michigan State Police, The DNR, and local businesses.
"We provided everything for free. We cooked out for them. It truly was a fabulous day," Bitnar said.
Bitnar added that it is very important for law enforcement to interact in a positive, fun way with people, especially those with special needs.
"Special needs children need to know that we are here for them. It is to let them know that we are friends in case they run off. They can come to us and not hide. It's very important to not only those with special needs but also to their families," added Bitnar.
Rachel McManus, a mother from Brimley, brought her special daughter, her granddaughter, niece and two nephews to this event.
She saw the information about Special Needs Day on social media and thought it would be fun.
"I had to bring her. It's not overcrowded, it's perfect with all children with special needs who can't handle the loud noises and big groups. It gives them the opportunity to have fun like typical children," McManus said.
McManus hopes the fair continues this special event in the years to come.
"I hope it continues every year and gets bigger and bigger and the word gets out more," McManus said.
The Chippewa County Fair continues through Monday, Labor Day, with many more events.
Make sure to visit the Chippewa County Sheriff's Department's display while at the fair.
