Air Force photo by Becky Pillifant

You don’t want to meet this troll looking character in a dark alley, especially on a dark Halloween night. Did you know Halloween was originally a Celtic holiday? Immigrants brought the traditions to America where, on Oct. 31, they celebrated the harvest around a bonfire, told scary stories and fortunes, sang and danced. (Air Force photo by Becky Pillifant)

Youth Center gearing up for Halloween Carnival

Published Oct. 22, 2007
By Services Marketing

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE -- The changing leaves signal the beginning of fall with cool crisp air, the smell of fireplaces and suddenly, the serene quiet broken by the sound of screams.
   It's Halloween and little ghosts and goblins can be seen strolling the hallways and rooms at the Tinker Youth Center.
   The center's annual Halloween Carnival is set for 6 to 9 p.m. Oct. 31. There will be many games at the free event. Children will have an opportunity to win prizes or candy. Children under 9 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. The carnival is a safe and fun family event.
   The youth center is looking for individuals or squadrons to donate bags of individually wrapped candy to help offset the cost. Candy can be dropped off at the center by Oct. 30. Trick or treating on base will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 31.
   Families going trick or treating from door to door can use the following tips to help keep children safe:
   · Be sure costumes are reflective and can be seen in the dark.
   · Have an adult or responsible person accompany children.
   · Take a flashlight to use in areas without good lighting.
   · Stress safety and courtesy by using sidewalks and saying "Thank you."
   · Carefully check all treats to make sure they are carefully wrapped and sealed. Only accept homemade treats or unpackaged food from people you know well.
   · Divide up children's treats over a period of days so they do not become ill from eating all the sweets.
   For more information, call 734-7866.
   Also, don't forget to visit the Haunted House at Iszard Pool Oct. 31 beginning at 7 p.m. and ending when the ghouls get finished rattling around.