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A Spooktacular Legacy: The Halloween Tradition at 3045 Young Ave, Ridgeway

Jen Wilkinson, FEO, October 24, 2024, VOL. 6 ISSUE 4 

The Halloween tradition that began 36 years ago when Paul, the son of Roy Trider and Debra, turned 8, has grown into a cherished community event. Located at 3045 Young Ave in Ridgeway, their spookily decorated yard draws countless trick-or-treaters each Halloween, bringing joy to children and parents alike.

“We do it for the kids,” Roy explains. “Watching their smiles is what keeps us going.” This festive attraction has evolved over the years, as Roy and Debra aimed to give back to the community that has brought them so much happiness.

Creating the elaborate display takes about 65 hours of preparation, complete with fog machines, spooky music, and an array of animated characters, including a 12-foot skeleton and horror icons like Jason and Freddy Krueger. “The number of kids keeps increasing,” Roy shares. “Two years ago, we counted 572, and this year we expect even more.” He chuckles, noting that a bus often arrives, unloading 50 or 60 eager trick-or-treaters!

Sons Greg and Paul lend a hand every year, while Debra, who Roy fondly remembers as the voice of reason, would often rein him in from extravagant purchases. Now retired, Roy reflects on Debra’s significant role in their Halloween festivities. “She was involved in everything,” he reminisces, recalling family parties filled with pizza and wings before the trick-or-treating began.

This year feels bittersweet, as Debra passed away last March, leaving a profound impact on their celebrations. “She had a knack for turning ideas into reality,” Roy recalls. “We’d shop together, and she’d say, ‘This year we’re not buying anything,’ but then we’d always end up with new decorations.”

In her memory, Roy is hosting a contest for the best-dressed zombie, inviting trick-or-treaters to submit their names for a chance to win a $20 gift card. “This year is dedicated to her,” he shares. “I know she’d want us to continue this tradition.”

As Halloween approaches, the spirit of community and family remains at the heart of the celebration, ensuring that the legacy of love and laughter continues to thrive at 3045 Young Ave.

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