By Commander Mae Carroll

J. C. Price American Legion hosted a Halloween Party for approximately 85 children, youth and parents on Oct. 30 at the Post home on Old Wilkesboro Road.

Leonard Hall, chairman of children and youth committee, offered the welcome and a prayer and introduced participating community co-sponsoring organizations who donated funds to the event.

Officer Cooper and cadets spoke about Halloween safety and distributed candy to the children. Members of the Ladies of Eloganze Social Club — Robin Taylor, Marlene Chambers, Barbara Summers and Lisa Shaw — set up booths and painted Halloween faces on the children. Post 107 Auxiliary President Joyce Symre donated cole slaw for the hot dogs. Johnny Moser Sr, Javories Wiliams and Ronnie Cook represented King Ahayuenis no. 127. Gary Hall and John Pharr represented the Cancer Social Club. Rowan Head Start, which donated toothpaste and candy, was represented by Elijah Caraway. The Pride of Salisbury Elks Lodge 1774 Was represented by Michael Taylor, Comrades Gary Hall and John Pharr. The Stepping Out Social Club sent a monetary donation.

Commander Carroll noted that this was the first time seven organizations had united to provide a high quality Halloween festivity for the West End neighborhood children. Councilwomen Karen Alexander provided more than 150 homemade cookies. Music was provided provided by DJ Neak (Shenita Russell) and sponsored by Wade Murphy. children’s books author Meesha Baig dressed in a witch costume and mesmerized the audience with Halloween stories and rules and tips for Halloween safety. She also danced with children and took photos with them.

Hot dogs, chicken, potato chips, sodas, cookies,candy and toothpaste bags were distributed to the children. Approximately 15 children won monetary awards for the best Halloween costumes. Sweet Frogs danced and took photos with children, parents, adults and Legionnaires.

Legionnaires participating were Leonard Hall, Meesha Baig, John Knox(photographer), Wayne Hill, Wade Murphy, Gary Hall, John Pharr, Elijah Carraway , Michael Chambers and Daniel Haddock.