By Edwin Scherzer
There’s been a disappearance down in the Bay, as the crew of the SS “Boo Barge” went missing mysteriously after her maiden voyage.
Williams Bay Parks and Recreation director Jennifer Moore says the mystery has been solved, and will be revealed during the sixth annual Boo in the Bay Friday night.
Moore hinted, “It might have something to do with zombies.”
The brightly painted boat can be seen easily from Highway 67, proudly promoting the Halloween affair this weekend.
The two day event held at the Lions Field House and Kishwauketoe pavilion will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a haunted forest family walk through the preserve for the younger crowd, and an even scarier walk for those looking for a fright.
There will also be a bonfire with S’mores and ghost stories in the pavilion and more fun and games at the field house following the forest outing.
While event goers are asked to register at www.wbreccenter.org/ the event is free of charge.
“We purposely make it a free event so families can come and have fun,” Moore said
New this year are singing pumpkins, sponsored by local businesses.
The eerily lit pumpkins announce their sponsor’s name, then “sing along” to favorite Halloween tunes.
Saturday, the pumpkins will tag along with runners in the 11:30 a.m. pumpkin races starting at Barrett Memorial Library on Elm street. Wheeled pumpkins compete in a must-see event with major bragging rights and awards on the line.
A $10 deposit will get participants a wheel set which a cheerful orange clad Boo Crew volunteer will mount on their pumpkin.
Those who wish to make their own creations, can visit the recreation department’s website for instructions and material list. Competition is set by age range, and while some take it seriously, Moore says, “It becomes less about competition and more about having fun.”
Moore said multiple categories of pumpkins are judged, with awards for “most creative and scariest as well.”
The fifth annual event originated as a group of parents who used to do spooky walks in the Kishwauketoe, then the recreation department teamed up to make it an ongoing affair.
Last year 600 people attended the two-day event according to department estimates.
With any ongoing community attraction, those willing to give of their time, make the event a success, “Last year we had 34 volunteers not counting the people close to me I pulled in at the last minute” Moore said.
