haunters

One of the first sites I ever listed on my links page way back when was HauntProject.com. I have always thought it was one of the best, straight-forward resources online for home haunters of all skill levels. It's also the only site I ever made a point to contribute links to as often as I could despite busy schedules and absences from online forums. And each time, the Perfessor and I would exchange a couple of emails back and forth, often wishing each other happy haunting.

This morning on Dave Lowe's website I was striken...literally stopped in my tracks...to learn that PerfessorEvil (Rik Cary) had passed away this weekend. My mind couldn't absorb the information. It's unthinkable. HauntProject has been such a constant in my life, and in the lives of countless other haunters. 

He leaves behind a legacy of links and resources that have reached thousands upon thousands of people. He was a champion of Halloween. He will be greatly missed.

I hope there are plans to keep the site running. It would be a shame to see all of his work and generously donated time be lost. 

Saturday was hot.

Humidex was over 100F.

There was only one make-and-take that lured me out into the heat, and that was to make the zombie crossing sign (above). It was so hot that the black sticker overlays were starting to stretch and melt in my hands as I tried to line them up on the yellow background.

Taking breaks in the air conditioned camper, I made a point of walking around the entire campground, taking pictures of some of my favourite displays.

While all of you south of the border are finishing up your long weekend, and Canadians are dreaming of what they did last weekend, I'm looking ahead to next Friday, June 3rd. It's the annual Great Lakes Fright Fest taking place in Petersburg, Michigan at Totem Pole Park.

A large group of haunters descend on the campground, decorate their campers and tents, and spend all day Saturday sharing ideas as they participate in workshops.

The cost? Free if you're staying over at the campground (you just pay for the campground spot you rent). If you aren't camping, it's $3.50 (the cost of a fancy coffee). They just ask you bring food donations to share during potluck meals and canned goods to give to charity.

Dave the Dead wanted to have something to set apart his campground display from all the rest, so I'll be attending solely to provide him with a Canadian decorative addition, stomping around his ghouls with a hockey stick.

Every year I miss Scarefest, a friendly, casual haunter event hosted by Boneyard Bargains. And every year I vow to attend the next one.

Scarefest is a gathering of people who share an interest in all things related to Halloween. In attendance will be people that own and operate professional Haunted Attractions, Home Haunters as well as Halloween product vendors. The event is free and open to anyone 16 years of age or older. Bring along your photos and stories to share with those who have the same passion as you. Food and beverages will be provided as well as a prize giveaway.

This year I'm keeping that vow. In fact, I will be one of the vendors.

So if you live in or around the GTA, come on out and meet fellow members of the Ontario Haunters Club.

Please send an email to Boneyard Bargains to RSVP by June 19th or call 416-266-7354.

It runs from 1pm-7pm on Saturday, July 3. Takes place in Kim and Paul's backyard - 115 Phillip Avenue, Scarborough Ontario.

So come on out, talk some Halloween, eat some snacks, and...oh...I don't know...buy some Ghoul Friday goodies. ;)