The Medina County Fair, a tradition spanning 180 years, opens amidst heightened security measures following disturbances at a neighboring fair. The fair, which started at 8 a.m. and will continue through Sunday, August 3, will feature a variety of attractions, including livestock shows, fair rides, and performances, as detailed by the Medina Gazette. The entry fee is set at $8 with special free admissions on designated days for veterans and senior citizens.
Following recent security issues at the Summit County Fair, which included a teenage victim in a shooting, Medina County Fair officials are implementing advanced security technology to prevent such incidents. "It should be known that we're out here looking for those that would ruin the good time that everyone else is having, and we would encourage those people that are looking to spoil the good time to stay home, and those looking to have a good time to come on out," Sgt. Mike Lyon told Cleveland19. A mobile command center and four camera towers are among the new introductions, designed to facilitate a quicker response to any incidents.
In addition to the mobile command center, which provides a centralized view for law enforcement, a portable Verizon cell tower has been installed to enhance connectivity for both officers and attendees. "We're going to have 24/7 access to that as well and live time feeds, so that way we can get quicker responses and more direct responses to where we see issues or concerns," Sgt. Lyon explained in a statement obtained by News 5 Cleveland.
The security upgrades come not just in response to the nearby violence, but as part of a continuous effort to ensure the safety of around 100,000 anticipated visitors over the week. Despite the unsettling events at the Summit County Fair, fair board president Joe Aungst remains confident in the security plan, which has been a year in the making, according to his statement provided to Cleveland19. Among the week's lineup, the fair will offer adjusted hours on Friday and Sunday to accommodate attendees with sensitivities, turning off lights and loud music for a period in the afternoon.
