Some Thoughts On Halloween

Despite the bad economy, Halloween is still a big thing, with an increasing number of adults since the 1950's buying outrageous and funny costumes. But for my money, Bill Maher's outrageous and tasteless "Crocodile Hunter" costume with the stingray bark sticking in his chest still rates among the worst adult Halloween costumes ever, but certainly reflects his controversial personality.

But I was deeply surprised when the number of "trick or treaters" continues to fall off each year in my neighborhood, which is a very good and safe neighborhood. But it might reflect a trend where many parents are wary of crime, weird personalities, or might have not had money to buy their children costumes or other financial concerns. All of these are sad reflections on challenges to a long tradition since the 1950's that has become one of the biggest holidays for adults as well as children.

Surprisingly, many parents now want to bring their children out closer to 6pm, which seems very early, as many parents or homeowners are barely home from work at this early hour, as though they are so concerned about crime or safety as it grows later. This is also sad. Halloween should reflect Americans taking their community back.

Some societal problems seem to be casting a long shadow on the Halloween tradition that survives despite a seriously lagging economy and safety concerns with crime.