Harrowing Halloween happenings

Byline: Cooper Hillman, Assistant News Editor

All Hallow’s Eve is on its way and there is a lot to look forward to, as well as important things to keep in mind through all of the candy, costumes and other festivities. For one thing, candy prices have gone up around 15% this Halloween season compared to last year, raising concerns for families prepping for trick–or–treaters. 

Higher costs for transportation of candy is a large benefactor to this increase in prices as the cost of diesel has gone up recently, which ties directly into moving candy products across the country. Leona Lede, the owner of Janco Distributors in Detroit, Mich., has noted this change in price and compares it to the price of Halloween candy when her great–grandmother owned a candy store over 100 years ago. She estimates that there has been around a 75% price increase in candy since the COVID–19 pandemic. Lede stated, “A penny got you all the candy you needed. They would think the prices now are ridiculous.”

In addition to the rise of prices in candy, safety is key on and around Halloween. People have started the celebration of the spooky season early this year, with some enjoying it more than others. 

A recent story from Dallas, Texas reports that two individuals were shot and one was involved in a hit–and–run at a local Halloween party. On Oct. 26, Dallas police responded to an early morning call at 2:30 a.m. and arrived to find a man and a woman already taken to a hospital after suffering gunshot wounds. They were able to respond to a woman injured after a mystery driver struck her and sped away from the scene after panic caused by the gunfire. An ambulance arrived to bring her to the hospital with reports of a leg injury, and all three individuals are stable and expecting full recovery soon. A gun was also found at the crime scene with a woman detained with detectives in contact with her to uncover what may have started the altercation.

Some extra news for the holiday discusses advisories on how to keep man’s best friend safe on Halloween night. It is important to keep candy out of the reach of your pets if you receive or give out any, as chocolate and even the candy wrappers themselves can be dangerous for your furry friends. Also, if you would like to give your animal companions a costume, it is advised to make sure that they have clear vision and that it is comfortable for them. And be sure that their mobility is not impaired by said costume, and keep watch of your pets to be aware if they are distressed by their attire because costumes aren’t for everyone.

Despite some concerns, this holiday season is shaping up to be frightfully fun and scrumptiously spooky, so stay safe and enjoy your Halloween night.