By Sarah Campbell
scampbell@salisburypost.com
SALISBURY — Children filled Bank Street’s Hall Gym for an afternoon filled with tasty treats, dancing and games Saturday during Salisbury Parks & Recreations first Community Fun Day.
But the goal of the event was to provide more than just an enjoyable afternoon, said Jeff Holshouser, the department’s program manager.
A community interest survey was given out during the event asking for feedback about programs.
“This event is all about the community,” Holshouser said. “We want to know what kind of programs and activities they would like to have here.
Although Holshouser’s staff does a good job at brainstorming ideas, he wants to make sure the programs suit the community interest.
“We want to hear from them, this is their center.”
The idea for Saturday’s event came from Floyd Kerr, the retired parks and recreation manager .
“When I ride around the community I don’t see a lot going on,” he said. “So I called the mayor because I was concerned about adding more programs in this area.”
Kerr said after he and several other community members met with Salisbury Mayor Susan Kluttz and City Manager Dave Treme they decided to host a Community Fun Day.
“We came up with the idea just to see what kids want,” Kerr said.
Kerr said he’s hoping that finding out what sparks the interest of local youth will keep them occupied.
“If you don’t have programs for them, they are out on the streets and once they get out on the street you’ve lost them,” he said. “I can’t stand by and see kids doing nothing, I worked too hard to put together programs to see kids standing on street corners.”
Salisbury transit, fire and police departments as well as Fibrant provided information about their services.
“We wanted to highlight what the city offers that people might not know about,” Holshouser said.
Salisbury resident Linda Miller attended Saturday’s event with her son, Lyndon, 5.
“I love it,” she said. “The fact that so many community organizations came together for the kids is great.”
MacKenzie Malz, 11, said she enjoyed the face painting, which she volunteered to help with.
“I think it’s cool that this is an event that people can go to that’s free,” she said.
Community events
The Salisbury Parks and Recreation Department offers a series of upcoming events.
Fit Community 10K
A 6.2 mile, versatile course that loops through and around the City of Salisbury featuring the Salisbury Greenway. For competitive and recreational runners. Walkers and fun run participants are also welcome.
When: 8 a.m. Saturday, April 16.
Cost: $25 pre–registration by April 12, $30 day of race; $10 Fun Run.
Where: City Park Shelter No. 1.
Fourth annual
Touch A Truck
Participants of all ages will have an opportunity for an up close and personal, hands-on, educational experience to explore a wide variety of vehicles. Rufus of the Charlotte Bobcats will also make an appearance from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. sponsored by Ultimate Sports Apparel.
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 16.
Cost: Free.
Where: Downtown Salisbury – First Bank Parking Lot.
Fifth annual Mother and Son Dance
This event will be an evening of dancing, food and more. A limited amount of tickets will be sold. Tickets available at Civic Center, Miller Center and City Park Center. No tickets will be sold at the door.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 30.
Cost: $6 for sons, $8 for mothers.
Where: Civic Center.
Fifth annual Middle School Prom
Students get to dress up and enjoy dancing, eating and socializing with other middle school students. Purchase tickets in advance at Miller Center or City Park Center. No tickets will be sold at the door.
When: 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 14.
Cost: $10 per person.
Where: City Park Center.
Kids Fishing Derby
Kids are invited to come out and fish to win fun prizes during this annual fishing derby hosted by Salisbury Parks and Recreation.
When: 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday,  June 25.
Cost: Free.
Where: Salisbury Community Park Lake.

14th annual Run/Walk for the Greenway 5K  
This annual 5K race takes place on a certified 3.1 mile course that follows a portion of the Salisbury Greenway. Pre-registered participants are guaranteed a dry-fit t-shirt. There are 12 age divisions. All proceeds benefit the Salisbury Greenway. The half mile Fun Run will begin at 8:45 a.m. for children 12 and under.
When:  8 a.m. Saturday, July 23.
Cost: $20 pre–registration by July 21, $25 day of race; $5 and $10 Fun Run, depending on age.
Where: Knox Middle School/Salisbury Greenway.