The Lawrence County Courthouse lawn was transformed into a field of dreams yesterday as approximately 150 children scouted for eggs during the annual Ironton Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Ironton Business Association.

"This one has candy in it," 4-year-old Emma Grace Bare said as she showed her grandmother, Wilma Bare, one of her new-found treasures.

Twenty eggs contained more than an antidote for a sweet tooth: those eggs had a ticket for cash prizes.

Presiding over the day's festivities was one serene white bunny who arrived in grand style on an Ironton Fire Department truck, and then sat obligingly for photographs with the children after the eggs were all collected.

"There was a real stampede when it started," Ironton Mayor Bob Cleary said as he watched the children scamper through the grass. "The weather's been great. It's just been a good event."

IBA President Pat Murphy agreed. "I think the good weather had a lot to do with it. I'm pleased with the turnout." IBA members were busy at 7:30 a.m. hiding the eggs and preparing for the onslaught of children.

Cleary said the Easter Egg Hunt is almost a kickoff for a long list of activities scheduled this year for Ironton, including the annual spring cleanup, Ironmaster Days and this year's new addition, the Megafest at the old Honeywell site.

Some of the adults who watched from the sidelines were nearly as excited as the children. IBA member Betty Adams said she comes every year just to share the fun with the children.

"I love it," Adams said. "It's such a joy to watch they children's faces when they see the Easter Bunny. I wouldn't miss it. If more adults would come out and watch this, the kids would make their day."