Touch a Truck set for Saturday
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on August 24, 2017 5:50 AM
When the Partnership for Children of Wayne County began brainstorming the idea of hosting a "Touch a Truck" event, it was geared to the agency's typical population -- young children.
But now that the original goal of having 40 or 50 vehicles has nearly doubled in size and variety, organizers are hoping kids of all ages will show up at the fairgrounds Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.
Chrissy Smith, community liaison for the Partnership, suggested the family friendly opportunity "transcends our target demographics."
Patterned after an educational event that has done well across the state, response to the first-time local version has been great, she said.
As of this week, more than 85 entries have been secured.
And not just trucks, although there will be tow trucks, fire trucks, a dump truck, propane truck and a bucket truck, to name a few.
There will also be emergency vehicles and a helicopter, as well as construction equipment, a hearse and even a race car.
"It's gotten very big and I think it will fill up most of the fairgrounds," Mrs. Smith said.
What makes it even more exciting is the tactile element.
This is definitely not a hands-off situation, she said.
"It's a way to get up close and explore and have these kids meet the people who operate (the vehicles)," Mrs. Smith said. "It's just a fun thing to do in Wayne County on a Saturday."
Touch a Truck is a fundraiser, supporting ongoing programs at the Partnership. Admission is $5 per person, but children under age 2 will be admitted free.
Free tickets will also be handed out to the first 100 children, starting at 10, Mrs. Smith said, thanks to a donation by sponsor Jackson and Sons.
The first hour, from 10 to 11 a.m., will also be a quiet hour -- no horns or vehicle noises allowed -- for those with noise sensitivities.
Food will also be available at a moderate fee, Mrs. Smith said.
"We'll have a low-cost lunch -- you should be able to eat for $3 a person," she said. "We really made an effort to keep it affordable."
Patrons are asked to enter from Genoa Road, parking in the large lot typically used during fair events.