An Easter egg hunt organized by the Ithaca Police Benevolent Association (IPBA) was a resounding success, with approximately 200 people, young and old, enjoying the festivities Sunday afternoon.
Families from across the community attended the event at Washington Park in downtown Ithaca, which offered a range of activities for children including face painting, prize giveaways and an appearance by the Easter Bunny himself.
The highlight of the day was the Easter egg hunt, with different areas set up for various age groups of children to search for eggs hidden throughout the park. Among these eggs were special ‘Golden’ eggs, which could be exchanged for bikes and tricycles, complete with helmets.
Legislator Mike Sigler, who is running for State Senate in the 52nd District, was among the attendees, enjoyed the day’s events with his family. Former First Ward Alderperson George McGonigal was also in attendance, as well as Ithaca Police Chief Thomas Kelly and No Mas Lagrimas Executive Director Ana Ortiz.
The event also served as an opportunity to support the families of two recently fallen officers from the region. IPBA President Lt. Thomas Condzella announced the PBA would be accepting donations to support the families of Endicott Police Officer Sean Ahern and Genesee County Sheriff’s Sergeant Thomas Sanfratello.
Officer Ahern, who tragically passed away from a respiratory illness, left behind a wife and four young children aged 1 to 8. Contributions to support his family can be made here.
Sergeant Sanfratello, who played a significant role in organizing past Easter egg hunts in his hometown, recently died after being attacked when he responded to a dispute at the Batavia Downs Casino. Contributions to support his family can also be made here.
The PBA extended its gratitude to partner organizations, the New York State Union of Police Associations and Zach Clark State Farm Insurance Agency, for their sponsorship of the event. The IPBA is seeking sponsors for future events. Interested parties are encouraged to reach out to the IPBA for more information.