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-— CHURCH CHICKS UNITED — HERE COMES PETER COTTONTAIL Many of us have scrutinized magicians, as we watch them pull rabbits out of hats, but rarely have we seen anyone put hats on rabbits... or dogs... or for that matter, any type of pets. This year, however, that is all about to change, because the thirty- or-so ladies from the United Church (known affectionately as the Church Chicks United), have introduced Easter bonnets for pets. Easter Sunday will mark the third anniversary of the unofficial Port Perry Easter parade where everyone will once again have an opportunity to show off their hand made Easter bonnets and at the same time raise money for the teens and tweens programs at the public library. “T have never seen such enthusi- asm for an event, as I have for this one,” said Pam MARCH.FOCUS.82indd 17 Hollett, originator of the annual Easter bonnet extravaganza. “Last year we raised nearly $1,900 for the library and everyone had a fantastic time.” Initially the event began with people making their own Easter bonnets or purchasing one made by the CCU (Church Chicks United). Since then they have added a cat- egory for men, affectionately known as the ‘Manliest Man on Queen Street’ as well as the ‘Most Likely to Cause an Accident’ category, intended for the largest possible hat. Grandparents and grandchildren also have a grouping and this year a new category has been added: pets, dogs, cats, rabbits or gerbils, there are no restrictions. Beautiful prize ribbons have been created for win- ners of each category. The ladies have also added ‘Crazy Hat Day’, 5th. During that event any child, for a small donation, is allowed to wear any type of hat to school. This year’s entire event is Stephanie, who among paying for décor and incidentals, will supply a yummy cupcake to every registrant. The Nutty supply chocolate bunnies and the Church Chicks United will make hats for sale to those who \ do not have time or ® talent to create their own. Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary held on Thursday, April sponsored by Cakes by Chocolatier will once again Cathy Paviik-Griffin as Photos by Jonathan van Bilsen is aE Rosie is proud of her bonnet. On April 8, enter your pet. Each year the grand event is led by a favourite storybook character. In the first year Pam Hollett took on the role of Little Bo Peep and last year we watched Jill McMullen portray Little Miss Muffett. This year Cathy Pavlik-Griffin will be leading the pa- rade as Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary. You will also have an opportunity to join all three of these characters at the YMCA ‘Luncheon with the Easter Bunny’ on April 4 from 11-1 (to register contact Karina at the YMCA 905-985-2824). This event is a great opportunity for all family members to create hats and show them off at noon on Easter Sunday in downtown Port Perry. I could say, ‘hop’ to it or ‘chick’ it out, but there are too many puns out there already. Instead I will simply urge you to create the best possible hat you can, wear it with pride and help a good cause. So get crackin’ and enjoy this egg-cellent event, as there will be nothing more egg-citing happening downtown Port Perry on April 8th. ‘or more information please email chickbonnets@hotmail.com. HAPPY EASTER! By Jonathan van Bilsen Focus on Scugog FOCUS - MARCH 2012 17 42-02-20. 10:47 AM