NEWBURYPORT — More than a dozen trucks, thousands of soap bubbles and a big fat dirt pile were all part of the fun during Saturday’s annual touch-a-truck event at Cashman Park.
Sponsored each year by Newburyport Recreation and Youth Services, the event drew hundreds of parents and small kids, all with a seemingly endless supply of questions for city employees ranging from the Department of Public Services to the Newburyport Police Department and the Newburyport Harbormaster Department.
“There were so many smiling kids and parents,” NYRS Associate Recreation and Enrichment Director Joe Pauline said during a Monday interview. “Seems like everyone had a great time.”
Despite cool temperatures and a vigorous wind, the 21/2 hour event was well attended — especially the first 90 minutes — which, according to Pauline, is proof touch-a-truck has become a signature event in the city.
“It makes it all so worthwhile,” Pauline said of its popularity.
During the noon hour, every truck siren and every air horn remained dormant so those with sensory issues could enjoy the event without disruption.
One of the most popular truck for kids wasn’t a truck at all, but the police department’s utility terrain vehicle. The UTV made its first appearance at touch-a-truck, but the same couldn’t be said for event regular Officer John Gavin, who was letting kids get behind the wheel and answering plenty of queries.
Gavin said the event gives him a chance to spread the word that police officers do more than hand out traffic tickets and respond to crises.
“Personally, it’s a good day because it makes us more approachable,” Gavin said.
When asked what was the most popular question he got during the day, Gavin said it had to be what the UTV is used for during the week.
This year’s version of touch-a-truck featured the addition of community partners who each had tables set up along the closed-off section of Cashman Park’s parking lot. Among those greeting attendees were representatives from YWCA Greater Newburyport, the Newburyport Public Library, Family Connections and the Arc of Greater Haverhill-Newburyport, according to Pauline.
Also new this year, NRYS staff handed out cups that change color to any kid who wanted one.
Pauline and Gavin made a point of pointing out the popularity of a large dirt pile that allowed children — and parents if they really wanted to — a chance to jump right in and get grimy.
“It was a great time had by all,” Pauline said.
Dave Rogers is the editor of The Daily News of Newburyport. Email him at: drogers@newburyportnews.com. Follow him on Twitter @drogers41008.