Heather Latter
Youngsters from pre-school to Grade 8 across the district will be receiving reflective armbands this year to wear when they go trick-or-treating this Friday night so they are visible to drivers.
“We’ve distributed glowsticks for a number of years but we’re doing the armbands now because they are reusable and environmentally-responsible,” said local OPP Cst. Anne McCoy.
She noted with the light-weight armbands costing the same as the glowsticks, it’s a good investment for the sponsors.
The distribution of close to 3,000 is part of “Project Safe Hallowe’en,” which has been running here for the past 12 years.
It is supported by the local OPP detachment and the Rainy River District Community Policing Committee, as well as other local sponsors and the Moffatt Family Fund.
Presentations were made at all schools, focusing on the “Do the BRIGHT Thing!” message while offering a brochure full of safety tips.
A YouTube video by 3M entitled “No White at Night,” which highlights the importance of wearing reflective material instead of only light or white-coloured clothing, also was shown.
But Cst. McCoy noted “Project Safe Hallowe’en” is hosting three events in unison this year to promote its safety message.
Besides the armbands and school presentations, there also will be a spaghetti take-out dinner Friday from 4-7 p.m. at the Memorial Sports Centre auditorium and “Trunk or Treat” event—a new Hallowe’en afternoon celebration at the Fort Frances Public Library parking lot from 4-6 p.m.
“A quick and fun event for all, everyone is encouraged to register their vehicle and decorate their trunks in colourful Hallowe’en themes,” Cst. McCoy said.
She added 17 vehicles—including businesses, organizations, and individuals—had registered as of Monday.
Those manning the vehicles will hand out candy as costumed children visit each “trunk.”
“The event is designed to celebrate community togetherness and safety in support of children,” Cst. McCoy stressed.
“When you hold creative events that engage youth, families, and the community, you demonstrate that they are valued,” she explained.
“And it helps build the ties to support youth.”
There also will be a pumpkin carving contest and a “Zombie Cat Walk” fashion show at the library starting at 5 p.m.
All registered pumpkins must be dropped off at the library by 3 p.m. tomorrow (Oct. 30).
Questions can be directed to Nicke at 274-2282 while those interested in the “Zombie Cat Walk” can contact the library.
Meanwhile, the spaghetti take-out dinner is being held as a way to provide a nutritious meal to families who will be busy with Hallowe’en activities.
“What busy parent wouldn’t love a quick, affordable, and nutritious meal for their families on Hallowe’en night?” Cst. McCoy asked.
Tickets cost $5/person (those four and under free), which will be available at the door.
All proceeds will go to support youth initiatives by the local Community Policing Committee.
Cst. McCoy noted “Project Safe Hallowe’en” has grown to include more than 25 community partners.
“As more and more partners come together, we continue to work to intentionally build assets in youth to help build a healthy and resilient community,” she remarked.
“We look forward to delivering a message of safety, encourage a connection to community, offer nutrition, and help offer families events that will provide them an opportunity to spend quality and memorable time with their children,” she added.
For more information, or to get involved, visit www.rainyriverdistrictcpc.ca
