Haunt Club Traveler

Make and Takes at HauntCon

2011-04-30T16:45:00.004-05:00

Waverly Hills Sanitorium

2011-04-30T16:25:00.004-05:00

We went on the paranormal two hour tour of Waverly Hills last night. It was amazing. And HUGE! We all enjoyed it so much that we are going to try and get a group of 10 together for a private overnight paranormal tour next year. Sadly, they are already completely booked of for this year!

Video from HauntCon

2011-04-29T15:49:00.001-05:00

Melissa and Jason have been posting amazing video from HauntCon. Check it out. . .

http://youtu.be/Jh0UcbnpCng

Heading to Louisville!

2011-04-28T09:10:00.002-05:00

Here's hoping the half hour flight delay holds and I get there soon!

Barrelling down on HauntCon!

2011-04-26T16:47:00.001-05:00

Which means. . . more stories, more costumes, more seminars, more tradeshow floor, more haunts and more pictures!!!

Devil and the White City Ghost Tour

2011-03-27T09:45:00.002-05:00

I'm a sucker for ghost tours. Today we are doing on that promises to be creepy. I'll post stories and pictures of it afterwards.

Who's Got a Good Presentation Idea?

2011-03-23T13:03:00.003-05:00

We've all learned how to splatter blood. . . apply zombie make-up . . . create a scare with misdirection . . . Now, we want to see something exciting and new like . . . like. . . like . . .

WHAT? What do you want to see?!

ECHC is reaching out to it's members for presentation ideas. If there's something you want to learn more about, or how to build, now is the time to tell them. They are hard at work putting together the best darn Gathering for us they can. We can help by giving them our thoughts on kicking presentations.

If you have ideas, feel free to either post them in the comments section and I'll pass them along. Or, visit their page on Facebook.

A Haunter's Coming! A Haunter's Coming!

2011-03-22T13:03:00.002-05:00

It's so rare that any of the east coast haunters make it Chicago that I get totally geeked out when one does!

ECHC's co-founder, Pam, is coming here this weekend. We already have a few fun things planned. . . like a cemetery day. . . and a haunted tour. . . and a visit to the tiki bar . . . ok, that last one isn't hauntcentric, but, it will still be fun.

We'll make sure to take plenty of pictures of any haunted type places we go to and post them here.

And. . .YIPPIE!!!!

Stay tuned. . .

2011-03-12T16:39:00.002-06:00

I'm hoping that tomorrow the crowds will thin and I can get pictures of some more stuff without those meddling attendees around.

UPDATE: I made it back to the show, but, only for about a half hour and then only to say bye-bye to people. Others say they'll send me pictures and I'll get those up.

Few things that caught my eye . .

2011-03-12T16:34:00.004-06:00

A little someting from the Dark Zone

2011-03-12T16:00:00.002-06:00

More TW Godness

2011-03-12T15:46:00.002-06:00

The first one is sorta hard to see. Unfortunately, it's so large that there's no good way to video it and not see the folks walking by reflected in the glass. But, if you can focus on the hungry zombie, it'll be worth it.

That one was REALLY cool! When the window breaks, not only did the wind blow at you, but, you also get sprayed with water.

Hanging out at Transworld

2011-03-12T15:07:00.004-06:00

I'm here and barely survived the first night. Those Mystery Manor scoundrels kept me up and drinking until 5 am.

I finally hauled my cookies out of bed and went over to the show. There are some great things this year. I'll start with what I think mayve been my favorite booth. It had all kinds of creepy dolls doing creepy things. Check it out . . .

I just got the first Gathering notice!!

2011-03-09T13:15:00.003-06:00

Here it is!!

New England Haunter’s Gathering part 11 will be held on July 30, 2011, at the Radisson Hotel in Manchester, NH!

Count to 5 with me!

#1 - So far on the agenda....:

- Haunter’s Hangout –

Show off your homemade props

More to come as plans solidifyFor full presentation/demonstration descriptions go to: Gathering 2011.

#2 - Dinner and Costume Ball - Our first Dinner and Costume ball went over so well we’re doing it again... kinda like an annual thing....

#3 – The Radisson Hotel Manchester, NH is holding a block of rooms for us up to July 8.

If you call in your reservation, tell them you are with the "East Coast Haunt Club"

#4 - We have PayPal! Save time and pay for the Gathering and the Dinner/Costume Ball by using our PayPal option.

#5 - If you haven't already, please go to http://www.hauntclub.net and join the East Coast Haunt Club

** Please remember to RSVP if you are planning on going to the Gathering and/or the Dinner and Costume Ball.

Thank you for your years of support! The East Coast Haunt Club Staff

I've already booked my flights and reserved my room.

Transworld is getting closer

2011-02-15T09:19:00.000-06:00

And I have my ticket! I'll be hitting the hotel around 3:30ish.

Can't way to see you all!

Stay tuned for Gathering information. .

2011-02-09T12:43:00.001-06:00

The big honchos behind the East Coast Haunt Club are this/close to a date, time and location for the 2011 Gathering. Once I have that info, I will post it here.

Winter Get Together a Huge Success!!

2011-02-05T23:55:00.002-06:00

We had about 15 people show up last nigh and IT WAS AWESOME! Pam took some pictures and, hopefully, she'll let me post some of them here.

We did our fellow Haunters proud by arriving at Dave and Busters at 6ish and closing it down at 2:00 AM. Yeah us!

Thanks everyone for coming out. We had a great time. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. .

HAUNTERS ARE THE BEST! GIVE ONE A HUG TODAY!

Only two more days. . .

2011-02-02T20:28:00.002-06:00

Check out the countdown on the right! It's getting close to East Coast Haunt Club O'clock! (shaddup, I know I'm a dork)

Zombie Dean and I have been planning this trip since the end of October (what I like to call the high holy month) and can't believe it's almost here! There are a bunch of us meeting up at Dave and Buster's in Providence on Friday evening. If you're in the area, we would love to see you. Even if it's for a quick drink and a game. In the meantime, let me share this most recent Haiku, complements of Rachelle Coury -

Haunter family
Eating, drinking, raising hell
That is what we do

Tuesday's Hellku

2011-01-31T12:04:00.000-06:00

Snow doesn't scare us
Gathering from many gates
Haunters are the best

I will not be stopped by that tramp, Mother Nature

2011-01-30T17:22:00.005-06:00

On Friday, I'm flying into blizzard central, the East Coast. And now, they are calling for a massive blizzard here in Chicago as well? I will not be stopped! I will make it to Rhode Island and I will hang out with my beloved haunters! I don't care if I have to rent a dogsled to get me there. It will happen.

So, if you're in the Providence area on Friday, February 4th around 7pm, stop on by Dave and Busters and hang out with. OK?

Dave and Buster's soon
We will eat and play some pool
Haunters are the best

- A Haiku by Debbie and Pam (Dam)

TempleCon Anyone?

2011-01-26T11:23:00.002-06:00

Some of us ECH Clubbers are thinking of hitting up TempleCon in Warrick on Saturday, February 5th. If you're interested, let me know.

I'll just leave the link right here:

http://www.templecon.org/11/

GO BEARS!!

2011-01-21T13:02:00.003-06:00

Just a quick side trip from Hauntersville to scream for the home team.

There's always next year!

East Coast Haunt Clubbers Hanging out 2/4/11

2011-01-20T16:37:00.003-06:00

Looks like we're getting the band back together! We have a group of at least 10 of us hooking up at the Dave and Busters in Providence on Friday, February 4th. If you are in the area and want to joins us, we'll be there about 6:30 or 7:00.

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!

Omaha has come and gone. . . for now

2011-01-18T19:27:00.002-06:00

It was great seeing the Omahomies. We laughed, ate, karaoke'd, hot tubbed, drank, and ate some more. We even crossed into the great state of Iowa (great state?) so I could have a drink and mark it off my list of states I've had drinks in.

What we didn't do was any actual Halloween stuff, with the exception of discussing which conventions we are all going to. It looks like they are a definite for TW and HC. SWEET!

Next up . . . East Coast. And, I'll be seeing haunters there and working on my costume for all the conventions this year. So, there will definitely be some Halloween chatter.

Countdown Clock

2011-01-10T16:16:00.003-06:00

I'm trying something new. A countdown clock is now at the top of the right column. See it? Right over there. No, a little up. . . ok, now over a little more and . . . THAT'S IT!!

After every trip I take, I'll reset it to countdown to the next one. Granted, the first two aren't industry-wide events, but after that there are several coming up.

Don't forget, if you have something you want folks to attend, especially on the east coast, let me know and I'll post the info here.

Planning the Hauntrips

2011-01-04T21:07:00.003-06:00

As I plan my trips, and realize I want you all to go with me, I thought I'd post the dates of the events I'll be attending.

Transworld
March 10th - 13th

HauntCon
April 28th - May 2nd

Midwest Haunters Convention
June 3-5

I'm also hoping to go to Mystery Manor's Ghoul's Gone Wild in April.

And, Charleston looks to be happening in Mid-May.

AND, I just confirmed my visit to Bachelor's Grove Cemetery. Well, sorta. It'll be late March or early April. Basically, as soon as it's warm enough.

New Year - New Blog Attitude

2011-01-03T20:26:00.003-06:00

I'm bidding 2010 a long overdue bye-bye (it was a crazy rough year which kept me from my beloved blog) and a big ol' open armed howdy to 2011. Heck, I may even give it a kiss full on the lips!

I have so many fun things planned for this year. Here's just a small taste . . .

I'm kicking it off 2011 with three of my favorite haunters, Patti, Matt and Mark. Patti and I will be tripping to Omaha over MLK weekend.

In February, I'm heading to Rhode Island to see Chris and Mark and, with any luck, Pam, Eileen, Jim and Brian.

In March - Transworld in St. Louis AND a trip to Charleston, SC for haunted goodness.

In April/May - HauntCon in Louisville

In June - Midwest Haunter's Convention in Columbus

In July or August - The Gathering in Nashua

On top of that, I FINALLY found someone to take me to Bachelors Grove Cemetery. SWEET! It's on every paranormal investigators list of top 10 most haunted places in the U.S. and it's in my own backyard. It just needs to warm up a tad first.

I will post links to all the conventions I'm going to because it's more fun if you're there too.

And, if you have a favorite haunted place, let me know. I'm always looking for new places to check out.

Happy New Year everyone!

Bobo Pole Dancing

2010-10-27T17:18:00.003-05:00

Mystery Manor has something no other haunt has . . . Bobo the pole dancing clown!!

Mystery Manor Puts The Heart and Skull in Haunting

2010-10-27T16:57:00.004-05:00

I had such a blast in Omaha! I got to work the gift shop the first two nights while rocking out to their kick-ass sound track. (I should have video soon) Beanie, the girl I was working with Saturday over heard this while she was running in for change:

"Look! It's one of the rocking chicks from the gift shop!"

Felt good to be famous, even if only to those in line.

On the third night, they had more than enough staff to go around so I got my run of the Manor. It was great. I hung out behind the scenes and went through the haunt. It was amazing! My favorite parts are the attic closet and the swamp.

They are open every night through Halloween. And then, in April, they will be having their spring break "Ghouls Gone Wild" show the first three weekends. I will be there doing my best to earn beads at least one of those weekends!

How I'm spending My Halloween Vacation

2010-10-21T16:59:00.002-05:00

I am off work (and a little "off" all the time) October 22 - November 1st! And, after a day in the editing bay tomorrow, I'm kicking it off with a trip to Mystery Manor. That's right, Omaha, hide your muggles cuz I'm a coming!

I can't wait to see the Manor during the season. I've been lucky enough to get behind the scenes tours a few times. And, last December, I got to see the Nightscare Before Christmas show. But, seeing it during the Halloween season is going to be a thing of beauty and I just can't wait.

Are you clawing at the keyboard hoping to find out more about it? We'll you are in luck because here is a handy-dandy little link . .

http://www.mysterymanoromaha.org/

A fun way to pass the time

2010-10-20T21:08:00.002-05:00

I was sent this a few year's ago and thought it was a lot of fun. So, enjoy!

http://us.mms.com/us/dark/dark_game.jsp

Pumpkin Martini's

2010-10-20T13:53:00.004-05:00

I happened across Pumpkin Spirits and alcohol infused whipped cream (pure genious) at my local liquor store, Binny's. Now, all I need are some good martini recipes. Anyone? Anyone?

Haunter Dave Hits the Airwaves!

2010-10-18T12:04:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite haunters, Dave from Hauntforum.com and Unpleasant Street, will be interviewed on the radio tonight! I'm so glad that radio stations now stream live since I live nowhere near Pembroke, MA and would have missed out.

Below is a link. Click "Listen Live" at 8:00 EST time tonight, October 18th, to hear all about his haunt.

http://www.959watd.com/

And, here are links to his haunt and the forum:

http://www.unpleasantstreet.com/
http://hauntforum.com/

Editing, Editing, Editing

2010-10-17T13:51:00.002-05:00

Every year, we support a charity by raffling off a part (or 4) in the following year's Halloween movie. About a month ago, we filmed the bulk of the movie, with tiny tidbits filmed over the last few weeks. Now, I'm editing it, and, I must say, I think it could be our best one yet. Maybe even good enough to post here? Yes, maybe.

If you are wanting to win a part in next year's movie, drop me a comment and I'll tell you how to buy a raffle ticket.

Back to the bay. . . .

Things to do in Chicago

2010-10-15T10:20:00.002-05:00

I know I've been MIA this year. Hopefully, next year, things won't be as crazy in my life and I can get to what really matters, all things haunt related!!

In the meantime, here are some fun must see's in Chicago . . .

Scary Attractions
If haunted houses are your thing, there are some good ones located right in our own back yard. In Chicago, there are two within minutes of our offices:

The Fear at Navy Pier - Put on by Zombie Army, the geniuses behind Statesville Prison
http://www.thefearhauntedhouse.com/

Chronicles of the Cursed – located just west of the river on Grand
http://www.cursedchicago.com/

There are a two more that I’ve been to in the suburbs and highly recommend

Dream Reapers – Melrose Park
http://dreamreapers.com/

Statesville Prison – Joliet
http://www.statesville.org/

Ghost Tours
Do you want to know who haunts Excalibur and Harpo Studios? Or find out who Resurrection Mary used to be? Maybe you want to hear about the ghosts that linger on the site of the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre. If so, I recommend one of these tours. I’ve done both the Chicago Hauntings and Richard Crowe tours. They are both full off spooky good Chicago info. However, if it’s more of a fun atmosphere you’re looking for, I’d go with Chicago Hauntings.

Chicago Hauntings
http://www.chicagohauntings.com/

Richard Crowe Ghost Tours
http://www.ghosttours.com/

I haven’t tried the Segway Tour, but, c’mon! Who doesn’t love a good Segway tour?

Segway Tour
http://www.chicagosegway.com/halloween_tour.html

Halloween Parade
Every year the Lakeview neighborhood throws a big costume parade. This year, Halloween is on Sunday so it will be on the actual day, October 31st!

It’ll take off at 6:00 PM on Halsted at Belmont and head north to Addison.

Pumpkin Carving
A lot of bars and pubs sponsor pumpkin carvings the week before Halloween. Then, they use them as decorations for the actual big event. Here are a few in the Lakeview area:

Wednesday, October 27th
McGee’s - 950 West Webster

Thursday, October 28th
Sheffield's - 3258 N. Sheffield Avenue
Vaughn’s - 2917 N. Sheffield

Fright Fest – Six Flags in Gurnee
This is a good time for the whole family. The actors stalk you in a creepy, starring way and the whole park is re-dressed for Halloween. Check out their website

http://www.sixflags.com/greatAdventure/events/FrightFest.aspx

If I can think of more, I'll post them. Or, if you have events that will interest this haunt thirsty crowd, let me know and I'll post it.

Now, get out there and scare some kids!

New England, Columbus Day Weekend.

2010-10-12T18:14:00.015-05:00

I love Autumn on the East Coast and while I'm a New Yorker, I really love New England. This past Columbus Day weekend I made it to my friend's house in Portsmouth, RI who greeted me with some pumpkin soup. What's special about this soup, is that it is actually from a Japanese pumpkin.

Saturday we hit Black Spot Haunted House in Providence, RI. They can be found at Dave & Buster's in the Providence Place Mall. The crew actually had to build the haunt off site, dismantle it and then put it up again in their space. The detail of the sets are incredible and the actors are so enthusiastic.

Then we headed down to Highland Farms Trails to Terror in Wakefield, RI. The trail was fun, but the best part was going through with other haunters. (We all met through the East Coast Haunt Club by the way.) I liked the maze house the best. It wasn't your typical maze, but had tight corners and sharp angles, low ceilings in some spots and oh yeah, it was pitch black. I was happy to have finally made it out! The night was perfect for the hayride. The sky was full of stars and the night was full of screams. My favorite part was the living statues scene.

The next evening we headed up to Litchfield, NH to visit Nightmare New England and Spookyworld. Wow is what I have to say to that Halloween theme park. There were 7 haunted houses. Some of our group loved the Catacombs the best, but I liked Torment, House of Eternal Darkness the most. The Dead and The Damned played and they were awesome. A total horror heavy metal experience. I kind of wanted to dance.

I couldn't get any pics at the RI haunts, but here are a few form NNE/S-World.

I can't believe it's over!!

2010-08-09T18:01:00.003-05:00

The 10th Gathering has come and gone. I can't believe I have to wait a whole year for the next one.

Couple thoughts. . .

The party was flipping awesome (even though I got sick half way through - stupid chicken)
The costumes were amazing! Proof that you don't have to go slutty to go good.
The presenters were all great. I especially enjoyed Jim's because he's a funny fella.
The silent auction raised $1,116 for Breast Cancer Research (SWEET!!)
And, I already miss everyone.

So, all you East Coast Haunters have an open invitation to visit me here in Chicago . . . well, except you.

I'll post next year's haunters events soon. And, hopefully, the fates will be much kinder to me and give me more time to blog.

Once again, I'm a huge lame ass!

2010-08-02T12:15:00.003-05:00

Honestly, folks, this year has been kicking the crap out of me. And, sadly, the thing to fall by the wayside has been this blog. I'm really sorry.

This weekend, I go to the East Coast Haunt Club Gathering in Nashua, NH. It's the 10th annivesary and promises to be a hoot. If you're in the area, please, please, please c'mon by. The price for the days events is dirt cheap and includes lunch. The price for dinner & costume ball is really reasonable as well.

I'll try to post and get pictures up and all kinds of good things while I'm there.

Launch Sequence Has Begun for MHC

2010-05-31T15:15:00.001-05:00

I am almost completely packed (not a suitcase full of candy like someone suggested). I can't believe it's less than 48 hours away. Hope to see you all there.

Hoping for HauntCon Updates!

2010-04-29T21:52:00.002-05:00

I couldn't be at HauntCon this year (dang!) but I know several others who are. I've asked for updates from them so I can keep you all, my adoring half a dozen fans, in the know. Hopefully, they will come through for us.

And, next up, Midwest Haunter's Convention!

Titanic Exhibit at MHC

2010-04-27T21:56:00.002-05:00

Ok, I know that the Titanic is exactly haunty, but it is creepy. It's been an obsession of mine since I first heard about back in my early teens.

And, now, the good part. . . .

THE TITANIC EXHIBIT IS GOING ON DURING MHC THIS YEAR!!

I've only seen it twice (I mentioned my obsession, right?) so I can't wait to see it a third time in Columbus. Who's with me?

If you need help making that decision, might a suggest a stroll through the website.

http://www.cosi.org/visitors/exhibits/titanic/

OK, again, who's with me?

Things are looking up!

2010-04-23T12:32:00.002-05:00

Thanks to some fancy scheduling, I will be able to attend the Midwest Haunter's Convention pre-tour! It was really one of my favorite things all of last year. The haunts were really great. And, hanging with my fellow haunters for two solid days on a bus (with plenty of beer) was huge fun.

I'm hoping for bus #3 again, so, look for me!

Life has totally been kicking my ass lately

2010-04-18T20:48:00.006-05:00

Which has resulted in me traveling no where since January. Oh, the horror. I've had to make a hasty move to new digs, which means redecorating. I'm thinking this is a great opportunity to display some of the pictures of taken during my haunt travels.

In the old place I had goth crosses in the bathroom. I've decided in the place I'll switch it up to pictures from cemeteries I've visited. Here's a few of the pictures I'm considering.

Transworld - St. Louis

2010-03-24T14:08:00.003-05:00

Sadly, I can not make Transworld this year. However, the lovely and talented Patti has kindly agreed to take pictures and video for me and it'll be just like I was there.

So, stay tuned for all the latest and greatest in Halloween prop goodness.

Oh My GoE!!!

2010-03-20T12:32:00.002-05:00

The big live stream starts in under a half hour. Sign in, watch, chat, call. . .

http://www.ustream.tv/channel/goe-new-england-drink-and-think

The Haunt Club Pins Are Here!!

2010-03-11T15:04:00.003-06:00

We have four different colors this year! If you want one, make sure you run into me or Pam at HauntCon, Midwest Haunter's Convention or The Gathering.

Garage of Evil's First Live Streaming Drink and Think

2010-03-06T15:50:00.005-06:00

Hello my faithful reader or two. For those of us that don't live in the Rhode Island area but have a hankering to see what goes on at those Drink and Thinks we are in luck. The masterminds over at Garage of Evil will be streaming it live right to our 'puters. Exciting stuff, no? Wanna hear more about it? Well, lookey there, I'm including a link. Have at it!

http://www.garageofevilnetwork.com/profiles/blogs/new-update-with-an-awesome

ECHC Announces 2010 Gathering

2010-03-03T23:10:00.004-06:00

** New England Haunter's Gathering X **

A decade of Halloween and still going strong!

That’s right, 10 years! The East Coast Haunt Club has trick-n-treated you with haunted Halloween fun for a whole decade.

Thank you all for making our Gathering one of the longest running of its kind!

Visit our store on Cafe Press!

When......: Saturday, August 7th

Where.....: Radisson Hotel Nashua, NH

Time.......: 10:00 am

Admission: $20.00

** Ages 14 and over only please! **

* Check out our PayPal option and please don’t forget to RSVP so we know how much food to order!

So far on the agenda....

Haunter’s Hangout - Please bring one of your homemade props, decorations or special effects and be a part of the spooky show-n-tell. * This agenda item will depend on the amount of participation.

Other information....

Silent Auction: To Benefit Team Halloween!

** Last year we raised $1,400.00, let’s see what we can do this year! **

Once again, some members will be cleaning out and donating their Halloween items for a silent auction to raise money for Team Halloween. Team Halloween is a charitable project, started by Mike Krausert of Bad Boys Scenic Design & Terror on the Fox, Nightmare New England and Spookyworld that raises money for cancer research & support. All money raised will be donated to the “Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition” (MBCC). So, bring cash and maybe you will find a treasure while contributing to a worthy cause!"

For more information on MBCC, please visit: http://www.mbcc.org/.
For more information on Team Halloween, please visit http://www.teamhalloween.org/.

Hotel Information - Radisson Hotel Nashua, NH. Click on the following link for more information Hotels

Dinner & Costume Ball - Our first Costume Ball, hopefully the first of many!

$45 per person
Door Prizes - You don’t have to be a business to donate a door prize. Whether you own a business or simply have a prize to contribute, the East Coast Haunt Club and its gathering attendees would appreciate any donation! Please contact pam@hauntclub.net !

2010 Haunting Travels Begin

2010-02-15T11:55:00.002-06:00

So far this year, I've been to the East Coast. And, as usual, it was fabulous. Now, I start in earnest to book trips to all the Halloween events I want to go to. I've made a list on the side there (see, over there? no a little further to the right, now down just a bit and BINGO) of events I'm hoping to get to.

I've already booked tickets to HAuntCon (SWEET) and should have no problem going to the show in Chicago since, well, I live in Chicago. Still on the fence regarding St. Louis but will DEFINITELY be going to Midwest Haunter's Convention. And, of course, my life would be incomplete without the East Coast Haunt Club, so, Nashua is a must for me (as it should be for you).

If you know of any other events I should go to, or you think should be listed here, just drop me a line.

Now, ready the horses and prepare to ride!

2010 HauntCon

2010-01-22T15:17:00.001-06:00

I just booked my airfare for HauntCon!!! I think that means that the Halloween Season has officially begun, right?

See everyone there in April!

Boston's Museum of Science

2010-01-20T13:38:00.003-06:00

So, I'm in the museum and decided to take a few pictures of the scary looking cats. I take this one. . .
Then turn around to take one of the black kitty and it turns out like this. . .

That's wierd, so I take another. . .

. . . and another. . .

And a bunch more that look the same. So, I decide to put the flash on and see what happens . . .
I think there's a soul in that, there kitten.

'nother Project

2010-01-16T19:19:00.002-06:00

OK, Mark can't sit still for more than 5 minutes. He needs to always be making something. After the Friendly Plastic beer stein, battery packet for a LED black light and the dinosaur, he created this new boomerang canister.

Mark's Project

2010-01-16T19:03:00.002-06:00

Mark ran out of projects, so Chris gave him this to do . . .

Fun with Haunters

2010-01-16T18:57:00.003-06:00

As Chris hurried down the hallway, he caught a glimpse of this out of the corner of his eye and screamed.

Cool Hologram

2010-01-16T18:46:00.003-06:00

I'm trying to get Chris and Mark to make me this. They claim they can't.

Where'd I go?!

2010-01-11T17:08:00.002-06:00

I've been remiss in posting lately. Between the holidays and accepting a new position at work, it's been a mad house. A MAD HOUSE!!!

But, fear not, my pretties. I'm back. And this time, it's casual.

I'm heading back to the East Coast on Friday. A group of us are hitting the Harry Potter exhibit, getting some good eats and. . . wait for it. . .wait for it. . . DRINKING!! Ok, maybe our drinking won't be legendary this time out.

Then, Saturday is all about costume making for HauntCon.

So, I'll post pictures of me and all my East Coast Haunties upon my return.

Oh, and, HAPPY NEW YEAR! Here's to another great year of Halloween goodness.

Forgotten Horn Pictures

2009-11-11T14:57:00.002-06:00

Some how, I forgot to post some of my horn pictures. WTH?!Stupid flu

Zombie Dean Winchester - Drinking in Salem

2009-11-10T15:59:00.005-06:00

This place has all kinds of fun beersI think this one is a pumpkin lagerI get drunk quicker this wayOk, something seems a little offThe room is spinning!! Kids, stay in school and don't do drugs

I just want my normal life back!!! Next up. . . People I met in Salem

Zombie Dean-Salem Day 2

2009-11-09T15:00:00.006-06:00

Went here to hook-up with ChristopherThere he is!We did a little work on my Halloween costume. Hmmm. . . a ghost or Blanket Jackson?Or, maybe a frat zombie at a toga partyThat costume making is thirsty work.OMG! I have to pee like a racehorse.On to a little site seeing

Scary witch!

Some radom old timey house.Scarier witch!!!
Sweet gargoyle
My dogs are barking! Thank God for Debbie.

Next up. . . Salem at night with the Spirits (beer, whiskey, wine, etc)

Berwick Boys - Region 335

2009-11-06T17:39:00.003-06:00

Ladies and Gentlemen:

The one, the only . .. JIM HOUSE!

Run Dave!

Zombie Dean Winchester's Salem Trip - Day 1

2009-11-06T17:27:00.004-06:00

Brain - check
Torn clothing - check
Throw brother over my shoulder - check

Let's hit it!
I'm not scared of flying, I'm not scared of flying, I'm not (gulp) scared of flying . . .

Weird . . . I do not see brains on the menu.

Also not brains! What the . . . .?!

Hello ladies! Check me out in my swinging safari bedroom.

Ok, just tell me. Is there something behind me?

Zombie Dean Winchester

2009-11-06T10:28:00.003-06:00

One of the perks of working in a media purchasing and planning company is the sweet gifts reps send us. Also, when you are known as the company Halloween freak, you get handed all the Halloween themed gifts.

This year, Gamespot.com sent us some fun zombies. As any good haunter would do, I've used them to raise an army of the undead. So far, my army is 5 strong.

Now, this guy here was given to me by a co-worker who shares my love of Dean Winchester from Supernatural. Her one request was that I name him Zombie Dean Winchester.

As it turns out, Zombie Dean Winchester is a wonderful travel companion. I brought him with me to Salem and he had a good time. So good that he started his own Facebook page with tons of pictures from the trip. He continues to update the page with pictures almost daily of what he's up to. I'll be share a few of those here as well.

Statesville Prison

2009-10-22T22:05:00.002-05:00

Ok, first of all, I was taken there by reps in a party shuttle with boooooze, food and music. And, would really like all future haunt excursions to start and end that way. Alas, I do not think that will happen.

Statesville is very good. I saw the guy who runs it give a presentation on basically wrangling his actors at HauntCon and he was extremely engaging. That's part of the reason I was really looking forward to it. And, for the record, his talk gave excellent suggestions on how to encourage your actors into being good haunt actors.

The haunt started out with a huge disadvantage in that it was rainy and cold. Luckily, the rep upgraded our tickets to VIP and we got in straight away.

I know I've become kind of numbed by going to so many haunts, so it's always great to go with non-haunters. And, let me tell you, these folks from work were definately non-haunters. The girl right behind me went through the whole thing screaming and near about pulled my shirt down and right off. I had to ask her to please let go because I didn't want to be walking around topless.

There were some really good scenes and scares in the haunt. The clown room particularly stands out. It was red and white checked with tons of misdirecting mirrors. The floors were slanted and the ceiling got lower and lower until you were completely hunched over. Then, it just stops at a dead end. While I was able to lead my group through the rest of the haunt with no problems, it took someone yelling at me from behind that it was a door to make me realize what a bloody idiot I am.

This is the first time that I've actually thought there may have been too many actors. You didn't get a chance to be startled because you could always see another actor right up the way.

The only other troublesome thing was that they had not one, not two, not three, but four of those squoosh you wall things. One would have sufficed. And, the last one was losing inflation so we were all tripping over the back half of it.

So, those two things said, I must say, the rest was very enjoyable.

Now, having been to three local haunts so far I can tell you my favorite has been Dream Reapers.

Next week, I hope to hit Fear at Navy Pier. I'll also be going to Franken Plaza to see Midnight Circus. I'll let you all (and by that I'm sure I mean 1 or 2 of you) know how it is.

Dream Reapears ROCKED!!

2009-10-19T10:59:00.001-05:00

So far, I've hit two haunts, Chronicles of Hades and Dream Reapers. As you can see by the heading, one of them was amazing.

Chronicles of Hades had virtually no scenery and absolutely no automated props. It was pretty much like going through a cattle shoot all the way through. Now, that said, the actors and the make-up were really good. But, for $20 (I got a half-price ticket online, thankfully), you expect a little more.

Now, Dream Reapers, on the other hand, was one hell of a good time. I have been to so many of these that I rarely jump or scream. I actually did here. And, the folks I was with pretty much screamed all the way through. There was something to see at every turn. The props and scenery were beautifully incorporated into the haunt. There were a few water features I want in my own garden.

And, the actors were great. High energy and not so much screamers as creppy or funny. The make-up was also insanely good.

So, if I were you, I'd by-pass Hades for Reaper.

Go forth and scare!

I've got my horns in a twist

2009-10-19T10:57:00.001-05:00

Another Halloweentastic Weekend

2009-10-16T11:21:00.003-05:00

So, here's this weekend's game plan . . .

Friday

Fear at Navy Pier- Revised - Not going until next week now. Steakhouse instead.
http://www.thefearhauntedhouse.com/

Then add my final touches to the halloween movie before previewing it for the others and getting their input.

Saturday
Final, FINAL run through on the halloween moving followed by seeting up all the props, decorations, etc for next week's HUGE Halloween party.

Sunday
Dream Reapers (after a fabu meal at Bull and Bear)
http://www.dreamreapers.com/index.php

Hope everyone's Halloween dreams are coming true!

Kinda windy out

2009-10-16T11:18:00.002-05:00

Blew my horns straight back.

More gray horns to match another gray day

2009-10-15T09:52:00.003-05:00

Plus, further proof that I style my hair with an electric beater.

Gray horns to match this gray day

2009-10-14T09:49:00.002-05:00

I enjoy being a girl (demon)

2009-10-13T13:01:00.002-05:00

Nothing says pretty demon like pink sparkley horns.

Who's Watching You in the Shower?

2009-10-10T22:53:00.003-05:00

There's an app for that!!!

Kate and I were perusing the iPhone apps online and ran across a "Ghost Radar". She bought the app and we've been enjoying it all night. It translates quantum flux readings into words. After hearing several, like escape, love, gold, bad, enough, loud, morning, may and others, I decided it was time to pull out the camera and videotape the device. We were able to catch two of the words before the world's tiniest memory card gave out.

Cool, huh? We're trying out this bad baby everywhere we go.

Halloween-centric Weekend

2009-10-09T13:56:00.009-05:00

Ok, ghouls and goblins, things are really reving up for me this weekend. Tomorrow is all about finishing up editing the Halloween movie and getting all the party decs ready to go for set up next weekend. On top of that, I'm hitting a haunt tomorrow, Chronicles of the Cursed (link below). And, as if that were not enough, on Sunday, it's time for my annual trip to the Scarecrow Festival in St. Charles (link below for that as well). I know the Festival seems cutesy, but there are these two little old ladies there that make the most amazingly scary candlesticks and serving dishes. That alone is worth the trip.

Then, next week, I will be hitting Dream Reapers (link. . well, you get the idea). And, the week after, Statesville Prison!! Oh, good times. I also have one more here locally, Fear, I'm going to try to see. Plus, Midnight Circus at Franken Plaza.

Here's all those links . . .

Chronicles of the Cursed
http://www.cursedchicago.com/?ref=chicagocursed.com

Scarecrowfest
http://www.scarecrowfest.com/

Dream Reapers
http://www.dreamreapers.com/index.php

Statesville Prison
http://www.statesville.org/

Fear
http://www.neofuturists.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=93&Itemid=%20201

Chicagoween's Franken Plaza
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/events/mose/franken_plaza__daley.html

Shout-out to Glen

2009-10-09T13:54:00.000-05:00

Hey Glen. . . we here at the blog (read as me) wish you a speedy recovery and really hope we (again, read as me) get to see you when we (I'm) out that way later this month.

And the parade of horns continues. . .

2009-10-09T13:16:00.004-05:00

Today's horns seem to be the favorites for everyone thus far. Here's yesterday's. I've already had to promise them to a co-worker to use for Halloween. Many people have suggested I rent them out. What's a fair price?Demon Down! The Human Flu took alot out of me. I had to stay safely tucked away in my underground lair for two days. Stupid humans and their stupid germs!

Monday's would stink without horns

2009-10-05T09:23:00.003-05:00

Hornucopia - Day 2

2009-10-02T09:18:00.002-05:00

Do these horns make my butt look big?

Hello you beautiful October!

2009-10-01T09:28:00.003-05:00

I have an extensive horn collection. Enough, in fact, that I can wear a different pair every day of October. Some call it obsessive. I prefer impressive. And. . . here is the first pair. (um. . . no. . . that's not my natural hair color. . shhhhhhhhhh)

Party Time!

2009-09-28T17:05:00.004-05:00

Chicago Halloween Fun

2009-09-23T16:12:00.005-05:00

As the season approaches, I've been noticing ads for all kinds of Halloweeny goodness in Chitown. Here are a few:

Dream Reapers is "a haunted house using a new genre of haunt. One of old technology, dark, misdirecting and actor based scares carefully merged with that of new technology. High tech. animatronics, high detail and touching 4 of your 5 senses. It's been around for 10 years and, having been there three times, I can tell you I really enjoy it.

http://www.dreamreapers.com/index.php

This is an Edgar Allen Poe themed haunt put on by The Neo-Futurarium. However, it's not just on stage. There are 6 different vignettes that are through out the entire theater.
http://www.neofuturists.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=93&Itemid=%20201

Chronicles of the Cursed is located on Grand just west of the Chicago River and promises that "victims will experience the rage of Hades, a killing factory, the dead coming alive, toys turning into demons, parking meters demanding blood, and other truly disturbing experiences."
http://www.cursedchicago.com/

If you are looking for something a little less scary for the kids, try Navy Pier. I've been there a few times in the past and there is good fun to be had there.
http://www.navypier.com/halloween/index.html

Another good spot for the kids is Daley Plaza, or Franken Plaza as they call it during the season. Midnight Circus is so cool to watch. And, bonus, FREE!!
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/events/mose/franken_plaza__daley.html

The Chicago History Museum does a really fun Haunted Pub Crawl. We did it last year and I actually had a little wierd experience at one of the stops. Looks like they only have one date left with availability, October 13th.
http://www.chicagohistory.org/planavisit/upcomingevents/tours/history-pub-crawls#booze

The Chicago Haunting Tours go year round. So, if you don't have time to do everything in October, save this for November. I've done this one as well and really enjoyed it. Of course, the one I went on was a pub crawl, making it all the more fun.
http://www.chicagohauntings.com/

I've also taken Richard Crowe's Ghost Tour. I will say he seems to be the most knowledgeable. However, be warned, he's not the most engaging. In fact, I found him more interesting when we were on the phone than on the tour. But, like I said, he does know every haunted story about Chicago.
http://www.ghosttours.com/

As I find more fun things to do, I'll post them. Or, if you know of something, let me know.

More Cemetery Pictures

2009-09-10T09:16:00.004-05:00

The crew from Ft. Wayne were in a few weeks ago for the Harry Potter exhibit. I met up with them and we went to two of our more famous cemeteries here in Chicago. And, for buffalo wings at my favorite place in Evanston. No pictures of that but, DAMN, they are good!

Enjoy these. . .
Since this isn't how you spell my name, it's not really all that creepy.

You gotta wonder who put the heart-shaped purse on this lady.

Is this why there haven't been any Vacation movies in a while?

East Coast Invasion?

2009-08-31T14:52:00.001-05:00

I've decided to try and lure all my friends from the East Coast here in May with promises of haunted pub crawls and ghost tours. Maybe I could talk the Omahomies into it to. If you are any of those folks, and wanna hang in Chicago in the Spring, contact me and we'll ge the ball rolling.

Costume Idea #2

2009-08-21T12:43:00.002-05:00

The Peter Griffin VS Human Size Chicken costume.

So, this would be a costume for two. You start out clean then keep going at eachother all night long. Bring lots of blood and bruising make-up so that by the end of the night, both of you are a ripped up, bruised and bloody mess.

Oh, hey, booze can help with that too.

Costume Ideas

2009-08-20T13:42:00.004-05:00

Until I can fill this baby with some real content, I thought I'd come up with costume ideas for the masses. Here is today's and it's for a group of women.

The Real Housewives Killingsworth Trailer Park

Just think of the tacky and/or gorey possibilities.

Oh, hey, booze can help too.

Until I can steal other photos

2009-08-03T07:46:00.004-05:00

So the event began Friday night with Mark's wicked evil jello shots in Nashua . . .
And, next thing I remember, I'm in Salem.

Haunters begin to pour in

2009-07-31T15:15:00.003-05:00

OK, pour could be a bit of an exaggeration. But, our numbers have swelled from 2 (Mark and myself) to ten. By night's end, we will most probably be up to 20.

I'm heading down to the hospitality suite any minute now (after chilling in my room for a few and having a beer) to hang with the cool kids. I'm sure I'll have tons of fun stories (read as drunken behavior) to post later tonight.

Ya'll come back now, hear?

Nashua Bound on the Morrow

2009-07-30T10:50:00.002-05:00

Water the horses and prepare the carriages! Tomorrow is when we all ascend on Nashua, and it can't happen fast enough.

I'll post pics and updates about what's happening. I've had problems sleeping this week because I'm so excited. Hope I dont' sleep through the weekend.

See some of you this weekend. And, see the rest of you on the blog.

One week from right now. . .

2009-07-24T17:26:00.003-05:00

I'll be hanging with my ECHC Haunties!! Yeah baby!! Now, if only I can get all my pre-Gathering chores completed before then. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.

In case you need a little info as incentive to attend:

When......: Saturday, August 1st
Where.....: Fright Kingdom, 12 Simon Street, Nashua, NH
Time.......: 10:00 am
Admission: $20.00** Ages 14 and over only please! **

So far on the agenda....
Haunter’s Hangout - Please bring one of your homemade props, decorations or special effects and be a part of the spooky show-n-tell. * This agenda item will depend on the amount of participation.

Ghosthunting 101 – by Laura Guiliano - Laura has been haunting for over 10 years and is also a part of Para-Boston Investigators, www.para-boston.org. She will show off some of her ghost hunting equipment and teach us the basics of this growing phenomena. She will also share some of the findings of the Para-Boston team.

101 uses for PVC… OK, more like 10 - By Victor Bariteau (AKA Halloween Zombie) - Victor receives a lot of “How did you do that?” questions in regards to some of his props and surprisingly many of the answers have been “PVC”. As haunters we have all used, or experimented with, PVC at least once – right? If not, why? It's light, easy to work with and best of all, not expensive. Most of us know PVC can be bent and shaped with heat, but this presentation will take you to the next level. Victor has made rib cages, rusty pipes, wing frames, a fancy-shmancy cemetery fence; he has even made a “water cylinder” for a barrel pop-up. Along with PVC, Victor will also touch on how to work with fiberglass for water-proof corpsing.
Victor is Systems Administrator for State Street Corp. and has been Yard Haunting for 13 years in Fairhaven, MA.

Let there be light! - By Jim Wieloch - Jim will demonstrate how to automate lighting and sound effects using computerized Light Controllers. These systems are designed to control simple or elaborate lighting displays. The presentation focuses on the 'LightORama' hardware platform. He will review the available types of controllers from stand-alone controllers to synchronizing hundreds of controllers, motion detectors, animation servos and other devices using a personal computer or master controller. The information is intended for both home haunt and pro haunt applications and will provide examples.

Action packed build it yourself Hauntfomercial! - by Steve O and friends - In a tribute to the late Billy Mays, Steve O from the Garage of Evil has volunteered (begged) a few great haunters into helping him present a live how-to on building not one, not two, but three (THREE!) props in one seminar. These are "must have" props/tools for any haunter and easy to build for all skill levels. As the haunters build the items, Steve will explain every step and give the technophobic among us the knowledge and confidence to build them. When the presentation is done, the 3 projects will be completed and operational so you can see what they do and how they work.
You'll learn how to build:

* Laser vortex - Maybe the best bang for your buck. You can build this cool special effect for your home (or pro) haunt for around $30 bucks.

* Foam carving tool with variable power supply - This is not one of those cheap craft store special, but a real variable foam cutting power supply on par with those costing upwards of a $100 for around $25 bucks.

* Flicker circuit - The one, the only (the classic) fluorescent starter flicker circuit. For the soldering newbies, this is a great and very simple project to get you started on building your own haunt effects.

Doing all the actual work will be home haunters Jeff Durette, GoE Labs chief mad scientist Pete Flaherty, and the head honcho of Haunt Forum, Zombie-F. Basically we're going to leverage Steve O's strong suit - non stop talking. Steve, Pete, Jeff and Dave will be available later for brain picking, but we suggest you pick Steve's brain before the after Gathering festivities begin.

Tour Fright Kingdom - by Tim Dunne and Fright Kingdom staff
Not only has Tim Dunne (the owner of the Fright Kingdom) asked to host this year's Gathering. He has also offered to give us a full tour of Bloodmere Manor and a sneak peek of the front room of the Psycho Circus.

Dinner & Magic Show - It has always been our intention to keep the party going after the Gathering day. For those of you that have been with us a while know that finding a place for all of us to get together, to eat, drink (yes Steve, I said drink) and/or just hang out, is not an easy task. So this year we put together a dinner and a show… a Magic show to be exact.

Countdown to New England Haunter's Gathering

2009-07-11T19:05:00.002-05:00

OH My God, Oh My God, Oh My God!!! Less than a month until the Gathering!!! The Gathering is the reason I began this website, for all of you not in the know.

I have spent the day working on a presentation for one of the speakers (won't tell you which one but I've been privy to some cool stuff). And, later today, I'm working on the kick-ass name badges. Truthfully, they are pretty much done, and, yes, they kick ass!!!

I hope everyone has RSVP'd, for both the day long seminar on the 1st in Nashua and the dinner/magic show that night. If not, run on over to the website and do so post haste!

http://www.hauntclub.net/hcs/

See you there!

Team Halloween Information

2009-07-08T12:32:00.019-05:00

****UPDATE****

THERE SEEMS TO BE A GLITCH ON THE PAYPAL BUTTON ON THE TEAM HALLOWEEN SITE. NOW, I KNOW YOU WANT TO MAKE A DONATION, SO PLEASE CLICK ON THE BUTTON BELOW TO DO SO, UM'KAY?

Team Halloween is a charity near and dear to the East Coast Haunt Club's heart. For the last several years, we've been doing our part to raise money for it. What is it, you ask? Well, it's a charitable project, started by Mike Krausert of Bad Boys Scenic Design, that raises money for organizations that help people effected by breast cancer.

Once again, we will be holding an auction at this year's Gathering with all the proceeds going to Team Halloween. If you can't make it, you can still donate. Click on the logo and you will be swept away, lickity split, to the website where you can donate on-line.

New Pictures of Graceland Cemetery

2009-07-08T10:59:00.008-05:00

Graceland is so huge that I only get to see a small chunk of it each visit. Here's some photos I took during Chris' trip.

Daniel Burnham was the mastermind behind the Columbian Exposition here in Chicago. Anyone who's read The Devil and the White City should be familiar with him. Above is a close up of his grave marker. Below are shots from further away and the view from his marker. They have their own island within the cemetery. It's an amazingly beautiful setting.

Wack her? I don't even KNOW her!!!

I think this crying lady might be my current favorite.

Next Up - New England Haunter's Gathering

2009-07-07T17:31:00.002-05:00

Here's a link to their site. . .

http://www.hauntclub.net/hcs/?q=node/14

I'll be getting in at about 10:30 AM on Friday, July 31st. I think we'll all be meeting up through-out the day in Nashua. I hope, hope, hope to see you there. Normally, by the time it's over, I'm in pain from laughing so much all weekend.

Sorry for the silence

2009-07-07T17:13:00.003-05:00

Sometimes, life gets a little nutty and you have to let the things you like doing most fall by the wayside. That's what has been going on here lately. But, things have calmed down a bit, so I'm back on the horse.

Chris and I had a fabulous time during his visit. We saw all kinds of Chicago touristy things, most of which you guys probably don't care about. But, what do you care about? Well, the Pirate exhibit at the Field Museum, our stroll through Graceland Cemetery and our trip to The Museum of Science and Industry to check out the Harry Potter Exhibit.

Let's start with Pirates. It kicked off with a history of slave ships which threw us for a loop. Two or three rooms full of of information about the slave trade. Very disturbing stuff. Eventually, in or about the third room, you find out that the slave ship they've been talking about, The Whydah was taken by Pirates and became a Pirate Ship. YAAAARGH! There were tons of artifacts, which was way cool. And a replica or two that made us happy. Including the bow of the ship. There are 5 screens in front of you showing a boat floating out on the horizon. Even though you're perfectly stationary, it really feels like your bobbing up and down. A most excellent effect.

The next day we went to Graceland Cemetery. I've posted pictures from there before, but have some new ones I'll be putting up tomorrow. Chris got some ideas there for the tombstone he's making for The Gathering raffle. Each and every one of you should buy a ticket.

Sunday, we headed over to the Museum of Science and Industry for the Harry Potter exhibit. I'm glad we saved it for last because it was, without a doubt, the highlight of his visit (well, except for magic mic at Kate's). I can't even begin to count the amount of movie props, costumes, etc they had there. They also built a replica of Hagrid's hut and the Great Hall. If you can get to Chicago the exhibit is a must! We got so many great ideas of things to make for our Halloween stuff this year. And, all the guides (read guards) have wonderfully fake English accents.

We were not allowed to take pictures in either of the exhibits (sad Debbie), but here's a link to their websites. There's sure to be some pictures on there:

http://www.fieldmuseum.org/pirates/highlights.asp
http://www.harrypotterexhibition.com/

Chicago Must Love Chris

2009-06-27T09:48:00.002-05:00

We have had the best weather we've had all year. I think it's because Chris is here.

We haven't don't much in the way of hauntie stuff yet, but, we did go to the Pirate's exhibit at the Field Museum. It was pretty wicked awesome. All kinds of Pirate items salvaged from a pirate ship just off Cape Cod. And, at the end, a fun gift shop with tons of Pirate themed stuff. I could have gone crazy there but managed to reel myself in and buy only two items, both for others. Debbie good girl.

Today, however, we are hitting a couple cemetaries. With the weather an amazing sunny and high of 82 (perfection again!), it should be a perfect day for being outside. I've already posted tons of pictures from one of them, Graceland. This will be my first time at Wunder's, so I'm really looking forward to getting some photos there and posting them here.

Talk at you all later.

Out of town haunter coming into Chicago

2009-06-24T14:50:00.002-05:00

My Rhode Island Haunter bud, Chris, will be hitting Chitown this weekend to hang with us. Very excited! We plan going to the Pirates Exhibit at the Field and the Harry Potter Exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry.

Also on the schedule is a trip to the north side to visit Graceland and Wunder's Cemeteries. I've never been inside Wunder's, so this is very exciting for me.

I'll fill everyone in and upload pictures through out the weekend.

Oh, it's very possible we're also going to start work on all The Gathering stuff. . . like fun name tags and the like.

Trade Show Floor

2009-06-06T14:57:00.005-05:00

A couple videos of the fun props on the floor. I especially like the door. Check out the dents that happen as she hits it with the axe

We're Number 3! We're Number 3!

2009-06-05T14:47:00.005-05:00

The chant for our bus could be heard at every haunt we stopped at. And, we stopped at many!

Unfortunately, at our very first stop, many folks walked away injured. The actors were just a little to energetic with the touchy and the feely. My Halloween partner in crime, Patti, ended up at a medical care facility for a boo-boo leg that, fortunately, turned out to be a deep muscle bruise. But, she did get sidelined for the rest of the night.

Injuries aside, the haunt, Wells Township Haunted House, had some really cool rooms in it. My personal favorite part was when they asked me to comfort a girl in front of a closet wall. (Thus begun the infamous "woo-woo, woo-woo-woo") You totally expect the closet door to open and some one to startle you. That happened with a bit of a twist. They grab the girl, who grabbed the door frame and my leg (I guess to keep me in place) and then the wall completely falls down towards you. It was amazing, unexpected and completely original.

Another room that was unlike other things I've seen before, had a girl quietly reading on a log. She sees us and tells us a story about her perfect sister and how she'd finally had enough and pushed her down the well in the corner. On cue, the strobe starts up, she starts freaking out and a soaking wet girl zombie comes crawling out of the well.

The guide took a real interest in singling me out for torture from our group, so I was put in the middle of many scenes. Another that I got to play the lead in was a tea party. The room was a scary little girl's room and she was having a tea party with her pet zombie. She was such a typical sweet girl all excited for visitors and the zombie was all chained up trying to steal my cup of tea. I think this room had the best effects off all because it was so simple.

After that it was on to the hotel to check in and get a little beer and food. We were running late so our time was cut from an hour and a half to a half hour. So, after power drinking a beer and taking a few more for the road, it was back on the bus.

Next stop, Demon House. This place was beautiful inside and out. We received an abbreviated tour since it was off season and there weren't as many actors. Didn't matter. What we got to see was so good.

It started off with a cue around a fire pit where everyone was just joking around. Then, when your group was called, you got a little background info on the place. (Turns out paranormal investigators have been there and they have caught a lot of strange things on film and recorders.) The tour itself kicks off out doors and a bit of a maze. Then, you make it to the front door and get greeted by a Svengoolie looking host. The actors were few and far between, but very good when they were there. The real star of this haunt was the house. The decoration and detail were insanely good. I think some of my group got some pictures, when I steal them from them, I'll post them.

Our last stop of the night was Hundred Acre Manor were we had dinner and a tour and a lights on tour. I was too tired for lights on, as were most everyone since we were running about two hours late and it was well after midnight by the point. My strongest memory of this haunt was the screaming. And the screaming. And the screaming. Not screams from the visitors, but the actors just screaming in your ear at every turn. It was a little too distracting. OK, a lot distracting. In fact, right now, I don't have a clear recollection of anything else from the haunt. I'll have to pow wow with my fellow haunters and report back to you all about the strong points of this haunt.

Mother Nature Can't Stop Me

2009-06-02T09:49:00.003-05:00

Though she is giving it her all. She and I will be having a no rules, bare knuckles throw down if this keeps up. Whatever happens, I have faith I will prevail and will be in Columbus tonight and on the pre-tour bus tomorrow.

I've got my trusty laptop and will do my best to keep everyone up to date on the happenings at Midwest Haunters Convention.

Hope to see some of you there.

***Update*** Mother Nature and either Southwest or Midway must be in cahoots. I've been delayed. WHY!?!?!?!?!?!?

Midwest Haunters Convention is next week

2009-05-29T11:53:00.002-05:00

And it can't come soon enough. This day job I got going on has been getting their money's worth out of me and I surely need a break. And, what better break than hanging with my fellow haunters?

I'll be hitting the road (or airways) Tuesday afternoon and will be in Columbus in plenty of time to board that pre-tour bus on Wednesday. I'm really looking forward to the pre-tour. Not just because of all the haunted places we get to see, but, it helps me reach my personal goal of having a cocktail in each of the 50 states. I'll get to add PA and WV. (It's good to have goals, especially if they involve alcohol.)

Check back in the next few days for more info.

Well, I'm totally behind

2009-05-26T14:56:00.005-05:00

And, I took very few pictures in NOLA. (quit yelling at me!)

Here a three that I took at night that are kinda cool. And, video of a parade in the French Quarter late Saturday night.

Partying Like a Highschooler

2009-05-17T23:25:00.003-05:00

Mercy, mercy me. I've done some seriously stupid partying this weekend. But, I did manage to get in a few things haunt related.

Went on a Vampire Tour which was pretty dang good. The tour guide (which means "out of work actor" in French according to him) was amazingly good. If anyone comes here, I recommend you ask for Tony for your Haunted Vampire Tour.

We also did a plantation tour at Oak Alley which has been visited by Ghost Hunters. And, they will be back in October. They don't think it's for the live show.

I'll include some of the stories from both of these tours a little later on. For now, I have to get back to drinking. After all, it's New Orleans and it's my Birthday!!!