‘Scott Street Scare’ a success once again

Hallowe’en has come and gone like a ghost out of the corner of your eye, but the impression remains that local efforts once again were successful to ensure youngsters had a good time.
“I talked to a few people [Thursday] and they seemed impressed with the ‘Scott Street Scare,’ and were wondering if we’ll do it again next year,” said organizer Sandra McNay of Masquerade Costume & Novelty.
“I’ll definitely be doing it again,” added McNay, who has organized all four “Scares,” only taking a break in 1999 when Hallowe’en fell on a Sunday.
She noted the event, which drew about 1,000 kids to the 200 and 300 blocks of Scott Street from 4:15-6:54 p.m., was virtually problem-free.
“I just want to stress that I’m thankful the police were there,” said McNay, referring to an altercation that occurred during the evening involving an intoxicated woman, and several incidents with older kids stealing from younger trick-or-treaters.
While McNay wasn’t giving out candy herself, she strolled the street making sure everything went to plan. “There were some awesome costumes. Even the adults were dressing up,” she enthused.
She also was impressed with the kindness of participating businesses, and particularly the Borderland Thunder hockey team, who volunteered at the last minute to police the intersections at Mowat, Portage, and Victoria.
But as successful as it was, drawing about as many trick-or-treaters as last year, McNay said she’s focused on keeping the annual event going strong.
“The [Business Improvement Area] has really shown interest—they want to get involved,” she noted. “I’m open to suggestions. If anyone wants to get a hold of me, they certainly can.”
McNay can be reached at 274-0484.
In related news, the spooky trailer set up by Kitowski Trucking at McDonald’s parking lot here last Wednesday night also was a “howling” success—despite some wet weather.
“I think the rain affected [the turnout]. Even a lot of people who live near me didn’t go out,” said organizer Kim Miller. “It sounds like it was quiet all around [town].
“I think in previous years, we’ve been spoiled with the nice weather,” she noted.
Something new to this year’s “haunted trailer” was a collection of non-perishable food items for the local Salvation Army.
“I know the Salvation Army is happy with us. But next year, we’re going to go to the schools and put up posters,” said Miller. “We didn’t quite get the jump on things this year.”
Organizers there prepared about 1,000 bags of treats, and gave out more than 600. The remaining candy will go to the Salvation Army for use in its Christmas hampers.