Mild, sunny weather greeted youngsters and their caregivers for the eighth preschool trick or treat held at the Lodge at Strawberry Acres park and Holland Branch Library. Above from left, Riley Gibson, 2, was the first visitor to the lodge. Josie Smatlak, 2, wasn’t quite sure what to make of other costumed characters. Scott Stigall as Burt, and Heather Ford as Mary Poppins, of State Farm, photographed youngsters against this Halloween background. Makennah Luce, 4, looked lovely as a princess. The children were then able to take home the instant developing photos as a keepsake. The photos were sponsored by Walker Funeral Home. ( See more photos on page 11)
After a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the preschool trick or treat returned to the Lodge at Strawberry Acres and Holland Branch Library.
Pleasant fall weather greeted area youngsters and their parents/caregivers along with a host of area businesses and organizations with activities and treats.
Hosted by the Village of Holland, Holland-Springfield Journal, Holland Branch Library and the Dwelling Place, the event provided families with young children a safe alternative to evening trick or treat.
Leslie Ferman, village administrative assistant, expressed her appreciation to area businesses and organizations for their donations. “We really appreciate everyone who came out and provided treats of fun Halloween activities,” she said.
Added Jane Maiolo, cochair, “We received nice compliments from those who attended.”
Upon entry to the lodge, children and their caregivers See navigated the hall where they received sweet treats and Halloween activities.
The Lucas County Sheriff’s office and Holland Police and Springfield Township Fire Department provided treats, distributed safety literature and offered youngsters the opportunity to explore the inside of police vehicles.
Toledo Metroparks was on hand with treats and park literature describing upcoming family events.
Children also decorated small pumpkins to take home with them. The pumpkins were donated by Walker Funeral Home and Heartand-Soul, and Pastor Roger Trowbridge of the Dwelling Place assisted with decorating them.
Chick-fil-A’s cow greeted youngsters–some of whom approached him with a degree of apprehension– and distributed treats.
A special teal pumpkin station was set up by Maggie and Abbey Hall for children with food allergies. A variety of non-food treats were handed out, including children’s toothbrushes donated by Holland dentist Dr. Mark Becker.
Parents also had the opportunity to have their child’s photo taken in front of a Halloween backdrop. Scott Stigall of State Farm Insurance provided the background and snapped the photo, the film for which was donated courtesy of Walker Funeral Home.
The Springfield Area Prevention Coalition was on hand with coloring projects, and Florian Insurance provided warm donuts and cold apple cider to hungry youngsters and their families. In addition, Great Lakes Audiology donated treats.
After visiting the lodge, families strolled along a decorated path to the library for more activities and treats.
The Community Development Committee, an all-volunteer group that coordinates the event, thanks all who participated or provided treats.
“This event would not be possible without support from businesses and the community,” Ms. Maiolo said.
