RUMFORD – Little hands explored gooshy, gross stuff in mystery boxes. Other kids tried their hardest to eat doughnuts on a string without using their hands, while still others raced to claim a chair to get a prize.

It was a Halloween Party at Mountain Valley High School for area children, sponsored by the school’s Peer Helpers.

“We want to connect with the community,” said Mahala Patrick, president of the high school group. “We want people to know we are here.”

Dozens of little kids and their parents, most dressed in Halloween costumes, showed up at the high school cafeteria Friday afternoon to take part in games, collect candy and just have fun.

Petra Hamilton-Denison, looking like the Wicked Witch of the West, read ghost stories to little witches. Cassie Clement, dressed as a butterfly, strung doughnuts on string for little mouths to try to eat. Marina Bitondo was sedately garbed as a black cat while selling chances so their little guests could guess how many pieces of candy corn were crammed in a jar.

If the group raises any money, and at $1 each, it’s uncertain that they will, the funds would be used for other Peer Helpers’ activities.

The group of 15 or so high school students generally sponsors in-school activities, such as freshmen events. But Patrick thought it was time to get out into the community.

“The high school is here for the community. It’s an open place,” she said.

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