MERIDIAN, MISS. (Queen City Newsfeed) – Families gathered Wednesday at Sowashee Park for one of the City of Meridian’s Spring Fling celebrations hosted by Ward 4 City Councilwoman Romande Walker, bringing children and residents together for an afternoon of activities during spring break.
Children enjoyed food, face painting and entertainment while families spent time together in the park as part of the city’s effort to provide safe, family-friendly events while students are out of school.
“It’s for the children and really our community,” Walker said.
Walker said she wanted to make sure children had something fun to do during their time off.
“Spring break is about fun, so I brought the fun to the kids this time,” she said.
Walker said she hopes events like the Spring Fling show young people that city leaders and the community support them.
“That somebody cares. That the councilwoman, the City, we care,” she said.
Walker also said the event reflects the spirit of unity she hopes to foster in Meridian.
“Fun, food, family, and fellowship. We have a variety of people here. All nationalities, all colors, all races, all people coming together. Having food, fun, fellowship … and safety,” Walker said.
One highlight of the event was a friendly basketball game between the Meridian Police Department and the Meridian Fire Department, which drew a crowd and plenty of playful trash talk from the players and spectators. The Meridian Fire Department won the matchup 25–21.
Mayor Percy Bland and Parks and Recreation Director Thomas Adams served as referees for the game, helping keep the crowd engaged.
City officials said events like the Spring Fling help bring the community together while also giving first responders — who often work side by side responding to emergencies — an opportunity to compete and have fun.
Another Spring Fling event is scheduled for Thursday at 3 p.m. at Highland Park, where families will again be able to enjoy food, activities and entertainment.
