Easter Bunny stops at homes of area children to give baskets

Published 9:55 am Monday, March 28, 2016

Ryleigh Sabinish, 5, receives an Easter basket from the Easter Bunny Friday morning. -Sam Wilmes/Albert Lea Tribune

The Easter Bunny made dozens of deliveries to children throughout Albert Lea on Friday.

The bunny, portrayed by Albert Lea Parks and Recreation Department Recreational Program Supervisor Jenny Davis, delivered baskets filled with candy and novelty toys, such as frisbees, pinwheels, bubbles, tattoos and stickers.

Davis and Kelly Weitzel delivered 35 Easter baskets in the morning and 35 in the afternoon.

Davis said she was caught in the emotion of the moment, even if the children could not see her face.

“You are smiling behind the mask, even though they can’t see you,” she said.

Seven-year-old Addyson Haugsdal said she enjoyed receiving presents from the Easter Bunny, and added she liked not having to wait in line.

“It’s cool,” Haugsdal said.

Families were charged $10 for each basket delivered in tow, and $15 for each basket outside city limits.

Garrett, Addyson and Grant Haugsdal receive a visit from the Easter Bunny Friday morning. – Sam Wilmes/Albert Lea Tribune

Baskets were delivered to children within a five-mile radius of Albert Lea.

Five-year-old Kayla Wadding said she enjoyed the Easter Bunny’s delivery because she received lots of presents.

Davis said she has taken part in the program each year she has been with the Parks and Recreation Department. She plans on continuing the deliveries next year.