City of Advance changes Halloween hours, due to weather

This family finds the ideal vehicle for a night of family Halloween fun!

Advance was among a number of southeast Missouri cities which rescheduled the annual Halloween trick or tricking hours to avoid a band of thunderstorms that moved through the region on Oct. 31, 2013.

Mayor Carl "Pete" Ritter called the local television and radio stations on Wednesday, Oct. 31, when weather forecasts predicted severe weather for the evening hours. The Advance schools were also notified, and word spread quickly through the small town.

The Advance Community Library changed its plans, and librarian Bonnie Umfleet reported that only two children showed up on Thursday.

Ninja Turtle, perhaps? Whatever he is, this child had one of the best costumes of the night.

On Friday, three library volunteers were on hand outside the library door to distribute treat bags.

"I enjoy seeing my former students and their children at the library events," said retired Advance High School science teacher Nancy Lanpher, who dressed in a flowing Renaissance outfit.

Lanpher and this reporter were aided by faithful volunteer Crystal Richards, who can always be counted on to turn out for the annual event.

Two cuties!!

"I love Halloween!" Richards said. "The little kids always have so much fun."

Though attendance did not reach the nearly 150 children who came last year, library officials estimate a crowd of 50-75 participants.

Weather precautions were well warranted, according to news reports from Nashville, Tennessee, where a 9-year-old boy was electrocuted by a downed high line wire on Halloween night, while riding his bike through the streets, after a storm. When firemen found the boy, he was reportedly still holding his bag of trick or treat candy.

Best teen costume of the night!

Fortunately, the local weather on Friday was sunny and pleasant, as parents and children ventured out on their belated holiday trek.