Kids Enjoy Second Annual Team Hart Easter Egg Hunt

By Jennifer L. Warren

BEACON – Omar Harper is always seeking ways to give back while uplifting his City of Beacon community, especially when it comes to the youth. So when the idea of having an Easter Egg Hunt-something that has been missing from the area for several years- surfaced with his work team, it quickly became a reality.

“When I submitted my request to the City, they told me if I wanted it, I could have it,” said Harper, who has also conducted an annual toy drive for the past four years. “Too many kids sit inside and play video games; this event gives them the opportunity to get outside in fresh air and move around.”

That multi-layered beneficial scenario could be spotted everywhere throughout the Memorial Park grounds Saturday afternoon, as over 100 youth, spanning a few months to 12 years old, could be seen eagerly pursuing (some alongside- carried by adults) over 2000 colorful eggs strategically planted by Harper and his “Team Hart” at Epique Reality crew.

Many of those eagerly hunted oval prizes contained highly desired candy treats; while an exclusive number were dubbed “Golden Eggs,” landing cash prizes. Regardless of how many, what color, and what kind of eggs each child filled his or her bag with, radiant smiles and unbridled laughter abounded.

“I really liked the playground and getting to see my brother play there before we went on our egg hunts,” said Noah Brown, age 11. “After that, it was super fun to run around and get as many eggs as possible and eat the candy inside of them.”

In addition to the three segments (ages 0-4, 5-8, and 9-12) egg hunt activities, several “Kid-focused” vendors, including; Hudson Valley’s Best, offering arts, dance, and after school activities, with locations in Beacon and Hopewell Junction; Prestige Dance in Fishkill, and Du Pros Pools, Spas, Home and Lawn were on hand, providing information on their offerings as well as signing up those interested. And of course, The Easter Bunny himself, animated as he waved to guests, clad in a sharp blue jacket and scarf with colorful, pastel ensemble was available, interacting with and taking photos with children.

“I really liked seeing the Easter Bunny all dressed up,” said 10 year old Reagan Hoffman, who collected eggs with her six year old sister, Riley. “This was really fun; there were a lot of kids, and everyone had a fair chance to get the eggs.” Reflecting further, smiling and showing her finds, she added, “I filled my whole bag with them, and it was just really nice to be outside today.”

Rounding out the many offerings was a raffle, which included prizes in the form of Home Depot gift cards as well as a free birthday party, valued at $500.

Whether it was racing up the hill with elation, seeking out hidden locations of elusive eggs, a parent chatting with a vendor about a potential activity for his or her child, giving the Easter Bunny a high five while posing for a treasured snapshot, or simply being outdoors in the fresh air, bonding with other community members, it’s exactly the kind of day Harper envisioned and one he is already excited about growing and improving upon next year. After all, it’s all about simply doing things to benefit the community he has been a part of since age 10 and dearly loves.

“This was a very well organized and fun event,” said parent, Jacqueline VonEssen, who came with her two sons. “It was a lot of fun; my kids had a great time running around and the setting was just wonderful, not only for finding the eggs but also having a playground here for in between the three hunts.”

Hoffman, marveling at her egg treasures, eager to open them up, saw still another plus to the day.

“Today got me really excited for Easter next weekend,” said Hoffman. “I can’t wait.”