Once a year there is a time where young kids can dress up as whatever they want and be able to safely go around their towns and collect candy and partake in other Halloween activities. At least that's how it used to be. However, in today's society that is not so much the case anymore.

The media tells us about snipers and terrorists and all the bad things that people do. We read warnings about children having to get their candy x-rayed for sharp objects so they don't choke or cut themselves. And of course Hollywood creates movies in which men wearing masks run around and kill people on Halloween.

It's rare that you'd find parents who are completely comfortable with letting their children go out on Halloween and not worrying about something bad happening. However, in Northfield, there is one group trying to help provide a safety zone this Halloween.

Norwich University is a safe place for the children to come to in a world of uncertainty. Here the community can trick-or-treat in the civilian dorms, enjoy fun thrills on the haunted hayride, and even enjoy the Halloween parade put on annually by the Corps of Cadets.

It is with peace of mind that so many parents from town bring their children to campus to enjoy the festivities and make sure they have a safe and enjoyable Halloween. We applaud those who put in the time and effort to create such a safe environment for the children and families of Northfield.

In a world where fear can dominate, Norwich students are providing a safe haven.

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