City to observe Halloween on traditional date
By Kenneth Fine
Published in News on October 25, 2005 1:47 PM
Ghosts, goblins and other costumed creatures of the night will be turned loose in neighborhoods across Goldsboro next Monday as city officials observe Halloween.
Mayor Al King announced Monday that trick-or-treaters will take the streets between 6 and 8 p.m. on Oct. 31.
King said he hopes all children living in the city have an opportunity to get dressed up, take home some treats and maybe even frighten a few people with their scary costumes.
"We want the kids to come out and have a ball," King said. "They love this time of year."
Before walking door-to-door, children and parents are also invited to attend the "Boo-It" celebration hosted by the Downtown Goldsboro Development Corp. from 4 to 6 p.m. The event will offer entertainment and of course, lots of candy.
The event is scheduled to take place on Pedestrian Plaza at the corner of Chestnut and Center streets.
King added that Halloween is also a time of the year for vandalism and other criminal acts. He said children should be accompanied by parents and held to the timeframe, wrapping up neighborhood walking by 8 p.m.
"Parents are asked to supervise their kids and respect the times that have been set," King said. "Sometimes, treating can turn into tricking once it gets late."
Wayne County Sheriff Carey Winders said he also hopes the evening will be fun, but he is stressing the importance of safety as well.
In a statement released Monday, Winders gave parents a few tips on keeping children safe on Halloween. He suggests that all children wear some type of reflective clothing, carry bright colored bags and flashlights. Additionally, he said adults should accompany small children.
Other safety tips include traveling in large groups, looking both ways before crossing streets and making sure scary masks have adequate holes for breathing and good vision.
Winders also asked that children avoid eating candy before they get home to allow parents to inspect each piece for suspicious looking material.
"Halloween is meant to be a fun time," Winders said. "But let's make it a safe time as well."