On Saturday, April 16, 2022, Springfield Recreation Department’s Egg Hunt & Kite Fest attracted one of the largest crowds in at least a decade on a day marked by warm temperatures and light wind. Following two years off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the popular spring event at Chisholm Park featured the return of kite flying and egg hunts for toddlers through teenagers. Prizes were awarded to children for finding the winning ticket eggs, bringing the most creative kites, and flying the highest kites, and were presented by Mayor Alex Kesier; Township Committeeman Richard Huber; Springfield Patriot Chamber of Commerce Co-Chairman Mike Scalera, who served as master of ceremonies; Director of Recreation Adam Lieb; and Assistant Director of Recreation Brendan O’Reilly. The gift cards were donated by event co-sponsors Mike Scalera State Farm, TD Pizza, Cardinal Land Properties, and Century 21 Norma Altman Realtors, to local establishments TD Pizza, Barnes & Noble, Dunkin’ Donuts, Spanish Tavern, Cioffi’s, Sofia’s, and Super Stuffed Burgers. Following the egg hunt, the Easter Bunny made an appearance and posed for pictures with families throughout the afternoon. In addition, a photo ring by Summit Soundz roamed the event taking pictures and instantly texting them to cell phones for posting on social media. Summit Soundz also provided the DJ music and dancing. Party Maniacs of Springfield was a returning favorite at the event with make-your-own sand art necklaces. TD Pizza partnered with the event for a second time, this year selling a variety of flavor ices to a line that stretched across the park. New in 2022 was a giant inflatable corn maze by Amazing Amusements that proved fun and challenging to hundreds of children. On hand at the event keeping the crowds safe were Office of Emergency Management (OEM) Coordinator Scott Seidel and Deputy Coordinators Ryan Westover and Frank Applegate, as well as Springfield First Aid Squad Chief and OEM Deputy Coordinator Apu Mullick, plus their crews. The Egg Hunt & Kite Fest received logistical support from the Recreation Department, Department of Public Works, Springfield Auxiliary Police, Springfield First Aid Squad, and several youth and adult volunteers. (post and pictures obtained from The Springfield Patriot)
