By Shavonne Walker

shavonne.walker@salisburypost.com

SALISBURY — This weekend brings the 85th annual Memorial Week celebration at J.C. Price American Legion Post 107 to a close.

The celebration began May 26 and included veterans programs.

Post Commander Ollie Mae Carroll said this is the first year the post reached out to the school system and set aside a day for people with special needs. A small group sat in on a magic show Friday afternoon by magician Glen Yost.

ROTC students from Salisbury High School volunteered to help children who attended or those with special needs by making popcorn and cotton candy and giving away bottled water.

ROTC Corps Commander Keyshawn Eller, 18, was among the six students who volunteered.

“We always try to help out in the community,” Eller said.

This was the first time the students had volunteered to help at the Legion post.

“We’ve got a good group who work hard and strive to do good things,” Eller said.

Sweet Frog mascots Scoop and Cookie were on hand to greet the children. The mascots have participated in previous events at the post.

Carroll said the post got a grant to pay for some activities, including a bounce house for younger children.

The festivities continue today from noon to 8 p.m.

Many Legion members purchased bikes and toys for the children. The bicycles will be raffled today. There will be free cotton candy and free popcorn. Music will be provided by DJ Neak. Vendors will return today to sell fried fish, hot dogs, funnel cakes and other items.

From 9 p.m. to 2 a.m., entertainment will be provided downstairs at the Legion post by DJ Danny D. There is no cover charge.

This year, Carroll said, brought a decline in attendance and vendors, but the Legion members wanted to continue with the celebration anyway.

Post member Dan Haddock was instrumental in connecting with the school system to make sure that students with special needs knew they had a special invitation to the Friday afternoon activities.

Contact reporter Shavonne Walker at 704-797-4253.