For anyone wanting to learn more and/or contribute to the Post-Irene Halloween in Woodstock discussion, the Village Trustees will take up the matter at their regularly scheduled meeting Tuesday evening at 7pm at the Town Hall.
No firm decisions have been made, but as a result of a quite productive informal meeting about Halloween in the traditionally barricaded High Street, Golf Avenue and Maple Street neighborhood some modifications are likely to be made.
A bit of background, the barricading of that neighborhood originally was a decision made about “public safety” for kids trick-or-treating. However, the neighborhood has grown as a location for Halloween trick-or-treating for more than just Woodstock. Many surrounding communities enjoy the fun in the neighborhood driving in from isolated more rural areas to take part. It has often overwhelmed the capabilities of good-serving citizens to provide treats for one and all. Town estimates are some 800 to 1000 kids and parents come through the neighborhood every October 31st.
One new plan developed from last Sunday’s meeting is to collect candy donations for the neighborhood at three different locations: The Town Hall, The Emergency Services Building and possibly a local food store. Generally, the consensus was to continue the closed-off area and just do better at providing candy for the neighborhood.
Woodstock officials also want to make clear that not matter what is determined about the barricaded street neighborhoods, the entire Village IS open for trick-or-treating. We know so many other people beyond Maple, High and Golf will have their jack-o-lanterns out and their treats ready as they “ooooh” and “ahhhhh” at the goulish costumed sight of our local kids dressed up and having some fun.
Auntie “Early Bird” does have some concerns about the effects of sugar consumption on highly-energized kids but has been known herself to partake of a Butterfinger or two…or perhaps, a Snickers…yes, and that Smarties pack looks quite delicious…maybe a Tootsie Pop or two…and who doesn’t love SweetTarts??? I ask you?
For the low-down and to give your opinion about Halloween please join us all at the Village Trustees meeting this coming Tuesday.
Julia Carlisle
Woodstock Early Bird 