It was a first time event for members of the Rico Community. And the April 9 Spring on the Green celebration brought several hundred area residents to the location at Campbellton Redwine and Rico Roads to enjoy food, races, rides, an Easter egg hunt and Easter bonnet parade, all geared to families and community spirit.

The family fun began with Easter egg hunts, a sack race at 2 p.m., a parade filled to the brim with Easter bonnets at 3 p.m. and a three-legged race an hour later. In between, there was an incalculable amount of barbecue served. The look on the faces as people had their fill told the story. And that look extended to the cookies, cake and someone’s world famous brownies.

Event master of ceremony Cleto Montelongo commented on the day’s festivities, adding that the celebration was also a time for young people honoring their elders and one of people helping each other.

“There are so many beautiful people here in Rico. We have open spaces and wildlife. And the kids get to grow up with it and be a part of it,” Montelongo explained. “We’re here today as one people, here to enjoy life and show our kids how to enjoy life.”

And enjoy it they did. Children and adults took horse and buggy rides, children enjoyed a barnyard full of critters and other activities, while kids of all ages took a turn on the Ferris wheel. Cookbooks and Easter baskets were available for purchase, as were plants and bulbs. The sunny, clear skies overhead combined with the smiling faces on children and adults alike to make the occasion something special.

Speaking from the grand stand just before the parade, Providence Baptist Church Minister Gene Tyre commented on the community’s first Easter event and its historic significance that spans 2,000 years.

“Today is a special time for this community, and it’s all about community. This is a time to reflect on the blessings of a great community, and it’s the people that make the Rico community great. This is a time of recognition, a time of remembrance,” Tyre said. “More than anything, it’s a time for a celebration of Jesus, the Christ, and for a reflection of Palm Sunday when Jesus entered Jerusalem.”

Following those words, the assembled group began their trek around the walking track, many carrying palm fronds to commemorate the occasion.

Spring on the Green was organized by Rico United Methodist Church and Providence Baptist Church. Mellow Mushroom was a contributing sponsor at the event.

Click here to view all the images of the Rico Spring on the Green

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