Autumn is a time of year beloved by many. Some for the crunch of leaves, some for the iconic and definitely not overused pumpkin spice, and some for the topic of today’s paper: Halloween.

There are so many traditions following this holiday, but some can stir up arguments. So…let’s talk about controversy!

First up to bat: how old is too old to go trick or treating? 

Technically there is no cut off for the age of trick or treating in Pennsylvania. However in some areas, such as Chesapeake, Virginia and Belleville, Illinois, they cut the age off as low as 12!

Some would say when you enter your teen years, it becomes inappropriate. I say, let people do what they want! If you’re in your prime teen years, enjoy them! Get candy! If you’re 95, who’s to say you can’t have some candy? 

I for one, will trick or treat every year until I physically cannot. You better believe that as an adult, I will be the mother of that family that has a corny family coordinated halloween costume. 

Here’s another hot topic.

Is toilet-papering a felony or a prank? Toilet-papering is defined as the act of covering a house in toilet paper, usually as a prank. Technically, no federal law is put into place to make toilet-papering illegal. However, if you are caught, you can be charged for misdemeanor vandalism.

 I think it is debatable. If I were to go over to my friend Hannah B’s house and toilet paper it, we would laugh and she would probably forgive me. It would turn out to be a very light hearted prank. 

However, If me and a group of my friends went at three in the morning to English teacher Mr. Miller’s house and threw raw eggs and toilet paper all over it, getting caught may not be a good thing. 

There are many varying thoughts about this topic here at Knoch. Sophomore Emma Salaski believes it is a punishment worthy crime, but only deserving of a small punishment. Whereas Junior Koen Sundie believes it is simply a light-hearted prank.

Band director Mr. Hayden elaborated on his standpoint for the topic stating that he believed it is “a light hearted prank as long as it’s not done with malicious intent.” He goes on to say, “I actually think it is a sign of acknowledgement, love and appreciation as it’s usually done to the seniors of a particular sport or activity”.

Personally, I would also not want to face the wrath of my parents and whatever punishment they have in mind if they ever found out that I had done that to another person’s house.

Though not quite a Halloween tradition, another controversy especially around this chilly time of year is wearing PJs to school. Many people are split on this idea. Personally, I agree with the minority. I am not a fan of wearing PJs to school

There is no hard evidence to prove that PJ’s decrease the concentration of students, but personally, I can’t concentrate as well when I’m wearing something that I usually sleep in. I believe there is a time and place for your plaid Grinch pants, and school just isn’t it. But, you do you!

There are so many unique and interesting fall traditions this time of year, it’s hard to keep track. Maybe next time you want to have a little bit of mischief in the neighborhood, you might rethink your decisions. Maybe you weren’t going to go trick-or-treating this year, but now you’re having second thoughts.

Whatever your decision may be, have a happy Halloween!