Hop to it! Johnston City Easter egg hunt draws more than 400 kids

A crowd of 400 kids and at least twice that many adults took advantage of the few hours of sunshine and springlike weather last Saturday to crowd the Johnston City ballfieds for the annual Easter Egg Hunt.

H & R Block owners Eric and Cathy Lindner sponsored the event, a task they have undertaken for three years in a row.

"McDonald's used to sponsor," said Cathy Lindner. "They still donate to the event."

Lindner said the event is a community effort.

"It takes a village," she said with a grin.

Help came from many parts of the town.

"We had volunteers from the police and fire departments, city hall, and even some members of the high school honor society," she said.

Organizers prepared about 3,600 eggs filled with candy and toys. Local businesses contributed items, which were used to make goody bags.

"Every child got something," Lindner said. The event featured a DJ from Music in Motion, about 10-15 raffles, a color contest, and several "grand" prizes, including skateboards and scooters. A concession stand was going strong, raising money for next year's event.

"I already went shopping to get sale items for next year," Lindner said.