by Victor Wong

Ghouls, goblins, witches, and Lusitano members descended on Humanist Hall in Oakland for the first Lusitano Halloween party in over two decades. The Humanist Hall (yes, they welcome humans) across from the old Sears, provided a perfect setting for family fun with its rustic charm and playground-like backyard for the kids. Children and adults alike got into the spirit with out-of-world costumes, like Cinderella, Wacky Priests, Sponge Bob, Bunny Rabbit, plenty of Witches, Wolverine, Fred Flintstone, and wait, an Elvis   sighting? The decorations, skeleton bones and all, and the music (Monster Mash!) really got us into the mood.  Thanks, Vanessa Roliz and Ken Harper for setting this up with helpers: Tania and Maria Roliz, Nuno and Maria Joao da Cruz, and Chris da Roza. We even had Halloweeners from Hong Kong and Switzerland! There were face-painting by Elaina Collaco, Lara Roliz, and Cassie Roliz Watson and games for the children highlighted by musical chairs and pumpkin toss, and, they were treated to ghost stories in the backyard by the resident witch, Nancy    Gorrell. Of course, we lined up all the costumers and cameras were flashing throughout the event with a photo shoot by photographer,    Cecilia Collaco  Naval.  Oh, don't forget the wonderful food! There were snacks and sodas at the tables followed by the usual line-up of great Macanese dishes for dinner (including minchi, chicken, feijoida, etc.) and wonderful desserts. Fun, laughs, and great food! The evening was a great success. Thanks to all those who helped out, including the chefs: Candida Collaco, Maria Joao da Cruz, Ken Harper, Dorothy Oliveira and Lulu Xavier. We look forward to doing this again next year!