There's a lot going on in the world today.

Escape from it for a little while and take in a local Halloween parade.It's amazing what you'll see in the lines of march.Participants, some as young as preschool age, make most of the costumes themselves. The various groups generally have themes, and you never know where their imagination will take them.In past parades we've seen children dressed as astronauts, flowers, dogs, and, of course, ghosts and monsters.There's cuteness. There's fright. There are some floats that will leave you breathless.It's virtually all local people in the parade. Some of the people you'll spot passing might be your neighbor, friend or even a relative.It's not just children you'll see having fun marching. Adult groups participate, too.There are also bands participating.The first local parade in the area is scheduled for 7 p.m. today in the village of Andreas. This is a unique parade because it allows you to see the marchers twice, and at one location, three times.You're guaranteed to enjoy the parades. A great part of this entertainment: It's free.There are numerous parades throughout the year, but none so unique as the Halloween parades. That's where creativity and craftiness peak as brilliant as the seasonal leaves.So far we're having the bonus of very mild temperatures. Even if the temperatures cool a little over the next two weeks when the parades are held, the weather is still comfortable enough to enjoy them.So take time off from the news of the world.Enjoy what local youngsters have to offer in the way of a retreat from the headlines.By RON GOWERrgower@tnonline.com