Krolicki will take over Halloween duties at mansion

With Gov. Jim Gibbons confined to a wheelchair and in rehab following his accident, Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki will handle Halloween duties at the mansion on Oct. 31.

Nevada's governors have traditionally handed out candy to the several hundred trick-or-treaters who visit the mansion each Halloween.

But, following a horse riding accident last month in which Gibbons fractured his pelvis, the recently divorced governor is in no condition to do so this year and there isn't a first lady to fill in for him.

"The only person who could adequately fill in would be the lieutenant governor," said Chief of Staff Robin Reedy. "I know he and his kids are looking forward to giving out candy at the mansion."

Krolicki said he, his wife Kelly and three daughters would all join in the fun.

"Nevada's second family is just delighted to host what I think is one of the most special evenings at the mansion," he said. "It'll be our absolute pleasure. My daughters are exceedingly excited. I think they've already managed to invite some of their friends."

Gibbons suffered severe pelvic injuries when he was thrown from a horse last month north of Pyramid Lake and is undergoing rehabilitation therapy at a Reno hospital. He still was in serious pain from the injury when interviewed last week and said he expects to be confined to a wheelchair for up to eight weeks.

Reedy, however, said Krolicki was asked to sub for Gibbons even before the accident because the governor was scheduled for a trip to Taipei at the end of October. The accident forced cancellation of that trip.