Everybody Has a Story: Several pumpkins were harmed

It was a few days after Halloween, in the evening. I only had lived in my quiet downtown neighborhood a few years and didn’t know my neighbors very well. But the lady across the street had two very nice young boys, one about 13 and the other maybe a bit younger.

That evening, I heard lots of laughing and yelling and peeked out my window to see what was going on.

The boys were having a pumpkin fight in the middle of the street! There weren’t just a few pumpkins. The street was covered with probably 15 or more smashed pumpkins. The first thing that went through my mind was, I hope no one comes speeding through here on a motorcycle.

I quickly called 911 (this was our only option then). I told them I wanted to let them know what was happening. But I also said, these are really good kids just doing something very stupid.

Only minutes later, one of the boys heard a car coming around the corner and armed himself with a pumpkin, ready to surprise the driver. But to his surprise, a siren came on, and a blue light. The pumpkin was dropped. Minutes later the officer was talking to the boys’ mother.

That night the boys were very busy cleaning the street. I don’t think the street has ever been as clean, before or since.

I wonder if they have kids of their own and if they pass this story down to them. I’m sure it is a Halloween they will never forget!

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