Egg hunt unites families in fun, festivity

The annual Spring it On Easter Egg Hunt hosted by the Wasco Recreation and Parks District brought families together for a day filled with excitement, laughter and plenty of Easter eggs.

At Barker Park, parent Cristal Landeros appreciated the activity. "I came to bring my little one. He's been wanting to do activities for Easter, and I love that the city put this together for the kids and families."

Gayle Coleman brought her three grandchildren. "It's an excellent time for families to bond, and it's really nice to see Wasco doing this. It's special for the kids, giving them something to do and getting them out."

Others like Yannette Sanchez thought it would be a good way to celebrate the Easter holiday. She attended with her niece and her friend's nephew "so they could participate in the cute activities. They were so excited to meet the Easter bunny."

Gustavo Castro said, "My sons got their face painted, did arts and crafts and played games. They also got to pet the bunnies at the petting zoo. It was more than just the egg hunt."

Miss Wasco Rose Queen Esmeralda Rodriguez took pictures with some of the more than 360 children that attended. She said, "Today is a beautiful day for Wasco. It's so nice to see everyone come out and enjoy the event."

The Orange Heart Foundation sponsored the event and provided face painting for the children. Co-founder Orquidea Ocampo said, "This is our first time doing it. I enjoyed it, and it's a way to support the community and the WRPD. They support us, and we support them."

The WHS FFA group brought their bunnies. The nonprofit group Transitional Youth Mobilizing for Change was on hand to share information about their organization's mission. The California Highway Patrol shared traffic and car safety information and passed out stickers and coloring books for the kids. Other sponsors included Wasco Toys for Tigers, Wasco Elks Lodge and Wasco Elk Ladies. DJ S provided the entertainment with upbeat music for the crowd.

WRPD Manager Chris Serna said, "To be able to offer an event free to kids and see them enjoy the Spring it On Easter Egg Hunt is priceless to see their faces when they see the Easter Bunny. The partnerships are important, and it is what helps make this a free event."