More Than Just A Free Ride – LARC and NE ARES Volunteers Assist At The Lancaster County Super Fair

LARC and NE ARES Volunteers Assist At The Lancaster County Super Fair

The Lancaster County Super Fair is one of Nebraska’s most beloved summer traditions—offering 10 days of fun, food, family events, 4-H exhibits, and community pride. But what makes it truly special isn’t just the attractions—it’s the people behind the scenes who help make it accessible and welcoming for everyone.

This year, NEARES (Nebraska Emergency Amateur Radio Emergency Services) along with volunteers from LARC (Lincoln Amateur Radio Club) played a vital role in supporting fairgoers by providing golf cart transportation throughout the fairgrounds for guests in need. Whether it was helping seniors reach distant exhibit halls, transporting parents with small children, or assisting those with mobility challenges, NE ARES and LARC volunteers were there to offer a ride—and a smile.

A Helping Hand, One Ride at a Time

LARC Volunteer Starting A Shift Driving Guests At The Fair

“Navigating the fairgrounds can be a challenge for some guests, especially during the August heat.” said Ed Holloway, President of the Nebraska Amateur Radio Emergency Services.  Recognizing this, LARC and NE ARES stepped in with their team of trained, compassionate volunteers ready to serve. Golf carts stationed at various entry points made it easier for attendees to access all corners of the fair without the strain of walking long distances.

“Our goal is to make sure that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can enjoy everything the Super Fair has to offer,” said Holloway. “We’re proud to partner with the Lancaster County Super Fair and give back to the community in a meaningful way.”

More Than Just A Free Ride

While the golf carts provided an important physical service, the impact of NEARES went far beyond transportation. While volunteers offered directions, helped carry items, and created a welcoming atmosphere that made guests feel seen and supported, Nebraska ARES was continually monitoring weather and communicating with the National Weather Service.  If dangerous weather like thunderstorms or lightning is in the vicinity, NE ARES communicates with fair administrators.  LARC and NE ARES volunteers then use their radios to communicate within the fair grounds to safely shut down activities and direct guests to safety.

Ron Bohaty, Administrator for the Super Fair said, “The work of the Lincoln Amateur Radio Club along with the Nebraska Amateur Radio Emergency Services is invaluable to us.  It give us the peace of mind knowing that they are helping guests while simultaneously monitoring weather conditions and communicating potential problems when needed.”

For many fairgoers, a short ride turned into a memorable moment of connection—something that embodies the spirit of Nebraska hospitality.

Community Service in Action

NE ARES is known for providing emergency support and community assistance across the state, but their presence at the Super Fair highlights their ongoing commitment to proactive, people-first service. By anticipating needs and offering help before it’s even requested, the NE ARES team demonstrated the power of small gestures to make a big difference.

Looking Ahead

As the fair wraps up another successful year, the contributions of groups like NEARES remind us what community events are all about—people coming together to lift one another up.

So next time you hop on a golf cart at the fair, know that it’s more than a convenience—it’s a reflection of the heart and care that makes Lancaster County Nebraska shine.