CHIPPEWA COUNTY — After a rainy Wednesday, dry weather returned to the Chippewa County Fair on Thursday, bringing tractor pulls, carnival rides and a youth horse show, along with a special event for those with special needs.
The Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office hosted its seventh annual “Uniquely Able Day,” a free event for children and young adults with physical and intellectual disabilities up to age 26, along with their families. About 200 people attended.
From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., participants enjoyed a sensory-friendly carnival with slower ride speeds, lower music volume and no flashing lights. At 1 p.m., members of the sheriff’s office and other volunteers served lunch. The program also included a visit from “Safety Pup for Kids.”
Two mothers, Penni Clayton and Sam Warner, said they have attended the event every year since its start. “Every year they do really good stuff for these children,” Clayton said. Warner added, “I take the day off every year to take them. They always look forward to it.”
Sheriff Michael Bitnar’s staff also handed out stuffed animals and informational packets, while participants had the opportunity to explore sheriff’s office vehicles and equipment.