Leader Publications

By JESSICA SIEFF
Niles Daily Star

Mother Nature had a few tricks of her own up her sleeve Saturday when rain forced Niles trick-or-treaters inside for the annual costume contest at the Niles District Library.

Whereas children in costume normally take part in a parade around the library as part of the festivities, this year the route was marked by tape laid out along the library floor.

Children’s librarian Darlene Jackson said it was the first time trick-or-treaters were brought inside for the event.

“I thought it was a huge success,” she said.

There was still a strong turnout for the event and inside there was plenty to keep kids entertained with magic tricks and balloon animals.

Children as young as 9 months and as old as age 12 registered to win prizes for scariest, cutest, funniest and best book character.

Jackson said they counted 182 registered for the contest though she estimated more in attendance.

There were comic book superheroes, princesses, lions, pirates, ghouls, ninjas and even a Strawberry Shortcake or two.

Jackson said she received several calls of appreciation from parents who were happy the contest went on indoors.

“Everyone was happy to be warm and cozy inside,” she said.

Over 50 door prizes were handed out to those children who participated in the contest and even more were handed out for costumes.

“A good time was had by all,” Jackson said.

Some attending the contest were given a scare when one young child suffered an apparent seizure, forcing a call to 911.

The Niles City Fire Department responded to the call and worked on treating the child while onlookers were kept away and children were kept distracted with other activities.

Though the child seemed awake and alert when he was taken away with his parents and emergency responders, for some the incident was still quite a scare.

The fire department was unable to comment on the incident Monday morning.