April 11, 2009 — Judging from the smiling faces of hundreds of youngsters running, dancing, hopping and playing at Renaissance Park, the St. Mary's Cub Scout Pack 898 Easter Fun Day was a big success.
The scouts and organizers holding the celebration Saturday were calling it "the first annual," with events such as sack races, egg and spoon races and egg hunts.
One event that worked like a clock and gave youngsters the opportunity to get the thrill of shooting an arrow into a bulls-eye was conducted by William Coles, of the Division of Fish and Wildlife.
He lined 15 youngsters up at a time along a line, showed them how to stand and hold the bow and aim. Then he showed them how to notch the arrow in the string and pull back. Each child could then shoot three arrows.
On the other side of the field the Easter bunny sat in the shade of a sea grape tree in a white wicker chair encircled by children patiently waiting for a photo with him.
Along with a maypole with pastel colored ribbons, there were three blow-up bouncers where kids could burn off some of their energy. DJ Uniq, also known as Edwin Chambord, who said he was as scout more than 20 years ago, donated his time and provided family friendly music.
"This event lifts the whole community," said Ericson Etienne, who was there with his family. "It is good to get away from boring day-to-day activities."
"We wanted this to be a fun family event with old-fashioned fun," said Lydia Moolenaar, coordinator of the event. "We have very involved parents and an active fund-raising committee."
The 25 scouts in the pack were raising funds for summer and winter camp and working on badges. The admission was $1 per person and a can of food that will go to feed the homeless.
Numerous volunteers came out from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Masons Frederiksted Paradise Lodge 170, students from St. Joseph's School and parents of scouts.
"I think this was a very nice idea where parents could spend quality time with their kids," said Roberta Etienne.
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