Oct. 16—Usually when a sports team hears a "boo," that's not a good thing. Come Halloween time, however, a "boo" can be good for business.
The Burnside Haunted House opened its doors to thrill-seekers this past weekend, and will continue to do so on weekends as the calendar creeps closer toward All Hallows' Eve.
Proceeds from the Haunted House go for good causes in the community — supporting both Burnside Little League and the Southwestern High School Girls' Basketball team.
"We had our opening this past Friday and Saturday," said Jerrica Flynn of the City of Burnside, who has been heavily involved in Burnside Little League as well. "We had a really good first opening weekend. Between 400 and 500 people came through. So it's a big fundraiser (for the above teams)."
Flynn noted that "a lot of work" always goes into the Haunted House, which is created and operated by volunteers and those associated with the teams — including participation by members of the basketball team themselves.
"It's month of planning and building," she said.
Junior Molden, Southwestern Girls' Basketball coach, noted that the fundraiser is his team's biggest each year. He's also been associated with Burnside Little League for a long time and is happy the haunted house can benefit both entities.
"I grew up down there playing and coached a bunch of baseball and softball down there, so for me, it's my hometown (and) I love the fact (that they can benefit)," said Molden. "We all enjoy doing it. ... Just the acting part and having fun with our team. My basketball girls all have been playing roles in it. It keeps getting bigger and bigger each year."
In fact, Molden said this year's opening weekend was the best ever for the Burnside Haunted House.
Adult volunteers have also played a big role. Local sports supporters Nathan Nelson, Matthew Nelson, Kevin Hall were identified by both Flynn and Molden has been putting a lot of "work and time" and "blood, sweat and tears" into making the Haunted House a reality.
This year, the Haunted House will be held in the former Bunker Hill Trading Post building.
"Little League bought it a year ago as the new headquarters and we are using it (for the event) this year," said Flynn. "So the house will have more indoor, climate-controlled rooms than last year and a small outside maze at the back of the building."
Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for kids ages 8 and under.