Easter Bunny Visits Naples

By Judy Weeks

NAPLES — On March 22 the Easter Bunny hopped his way onto the grounds of the Collier County Museum to visit with the members of the Naples Seminole Community.

With approximately 50 people in attendance, the fabled hare had to deliver a multitude of baskets to the stage of the pavilion chickee, containing presents appropriate for all ages. Prior to his arrival, a magician and balloon artist entertained the children with his antics and taught them a few slight of hand tricks.

“Easter brings the promise of resurrection and renewal of life,” said Naples Liaison OB Osceola Jr. “What better place to enjoy this miracle than in the heart of a cypress head or oak hammock as our ancestors once celebrated the return of the growing season and cleansing of their spirit. The cypress trees are bursting with new green foliage and the resurrection fern and flowers are springing back to life.”

As with many family gatherings, the elders experienced a welcome opportunity to share in the enthusiasm. Tahama Osceola talked about college graduation with her granddaughter, Jessica, as Ingraham Billie and his daughter, Maggie Porter, took a family portrait. OB Osceola Sr. was seen nearby with grandchildren crawling all over him, while Mary Osceola Moore ate lunch with her great-granddaughter, Melinda.