Carnival opens early for special needs day

The carnival at the fair got going a little earlier than usual Thursday, with the gates opening for a really lucky group of people.

That's because hundreds of people in the area attended the Yuma County Fair on the special needs day.

It's an opportunity for those with special needs in Yuma County to experience all the sights and sounds of the fair.

And even a few clouds and a chilly morning didn't stop the participants this year.

Melba Killingsworth, with Palm View Rehabilitation and Care Center, was one of the more than 500 people at the fair Thursday morning.

Killingsworth said she has some favorites when it comes to fair activities. "This is fun to see the art displays and the animals."

She said she was looking forward to coming this year. "And of course, we always like to eat. They always make it pleasant."

For five out of the seven attendees from Palm View, this was the second year in a row.

Elga Martinez, who works at Palm View, said she's been coming with the group for more than 10 years. "They look forward to it. It's like tradition for them and they enjoy it."

Organizer Linda Lerma said more than 500 people attended before 10 a.m. Thursday.

Individuals along with local groups such as the Saguaro Foundation, the Excel Group and Easter Seals attend the fair - and the day always remains the same: Thursday of fair week.

She said she's been helping for more than 25 years, and it's a "special day for special people. Even the adults get so excited."

Lerma also has a favorite part of the day: "The smiles."

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Stephanie A. Wilken can be reached at swilken@yumasun.com or 539-6857.