October 28, 2009 – Our Town – Delaware

The haunted swamp is featured on the first floor of Chi Phi’s 25th annual haunted house. The event is appropriate for all ages.

Photo by Emily Hastings ’10

Scares Galore
Everyone’s invited to Chi Phi’s 25th annual haunted house

Every October, 216 N. Franklin St. is transformed from the Chi Phi fraternity house into a spooky haunted house sure to scare even the bravest souls.

“Haunted House has always been one of the most spectacular things to happen in the fall, but since it is the 25th anniversary, it will be the best we have ever had,” says Will Heistand ’10, who is serving as co-chair of the project with fellow fraternity brother Neill McGrann ’10.

The two encourage everyone in the community to check out the haunted house, which they have been working tirelessly on for the past month. Though the event promises chills and thrills, Chi Phi will tailor tours to accommodate all ages.

Chi Phi’s Haunted House features four spooktacular floors, each with its own theme. The first floor is a haunted swamp, complete with an old dock and creepy shed. The second floor is the “brutal horror” floor, which uses scenes from famous slasher films throughout the decades. The third floor is the torture floor, which is sure to bring about many bloodcurdling screams. The last floor on the tour is the basement, which consists of the annual Haunted House maze—and a little extra surprise.

The men of Chi Phi and a group of Ohio Wesleyan students volunteer to work the haunted house. A few brothers are designated tour guides, each giving an eerie tale of the house. McGrann says alumni also enjoy coming back to help out and act as tour guides.

The house will be open from 8-11 p.m. on Thursday, October 29, and from 8 p.m.-1 a.m. on both Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31.

Admission is $6.25 for those over age 12, and $3.25 for those 12 and under. OWU students with a valid ID may pay $5.25 (or use $5.25 in food points). And everyone is invited to bring a can of nonperishable food to save a dollar off the admission price.

All funds collected benefit the Delaware Program for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Chi Phi will use the food points and canned goods to support People in Need, Inc., a family service agency for Delaware County residents.

“Be there and be scared!” says Heistand.

– Emily Hastings ’10