Halloween tradition goes on

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- It was a Halloween tradition that Mel Carnahan and his wife, Jean, enjoyed.

The annual Spooktacular at the Governor's Mansion was an event that thrilled children and adults alike -- and the Carnahans always dressed for the occasion.

For seven years, the mansion was transformed into a haunted house. Tombstones and inflated figures would dot the grounds while inside, costumed volunteers guided children dressed in Halloween garb.

The tradition abruptly ended after Mel Carnahan, his son Randy and close aide Chris Sifford died in a plane crash on Oct. 16.

Despite the cancellation of Spooktacular, a still grieving Jean Carnahan emerged from the mansion and handed out trick-or-treat bags on the building's front steps just a week after the accident.

Fondest memories

In a recent interview, now U.S. Sen. Jean Carnahan said the Spooktacular was one of her fondest memories from her days in the mansion.

"During the Spooktacular, the garden was filled with children and laughter and I can remember the good times we had down here," Carnahan said following the renaming of the Governor's Garden after her husband. "It was just overflowing with children and they were enjoying the Halloween celebration."

Gov. Bob Holden and wife, Lori Hauser Holden, have announced their own celebration: "Halloween Happenings at the Governor's Mansion," scheduled for Oct. 27.

"Governor Holden and I, along with our sons Robert and John D., are delighted to continue the tradition of a Halloween celebration here at the governor's mansion," the first lady said.

In keeping with tradition, the Holdens also will be decked out in Halloween garb. The first family will meet with visitors from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The mansion event will be held in conjunction with a local pumpkin festival and Octoberfest concert celebrations.

All activities are free to the public and the mansion event will be held rain or shine.