One of the running jokes in the newsroom is neighborhoods; someone questions whether something happened in this neighborhood, or that one.  Inevitably, someone says "I think that's Dent."

One thing not in question is the Dent Schoolhouse, which has been repeatedly named one of the best spook houses in the United States.

Through the connections of one Brandi Srader, and the good graces of Bud, Jack Crumley, Bridget Doherty, (formerly the News Authority), and I, got a peek inside.

The one thing that really stands out is the attention to detail.  Because we were with the boss, we could go a little slower.  Brandi, Bridget and Jack weren't too keen on that, but I liked it, because I could look at the jars of fingers in one of the basement "scenarios".  Normally, in such an attraction, it's dark, and you're kept moving at a quick pace.  So, why bother with such details?  Because, I think, on some level of consciousness, you notice such things, and it creeps you out without you being aware you're seeing something unsettling. 

But, it's not just props.  There's a talented team of actors whose job it is to make sure you're freaked out.  Bud works with them; They're not just covered in fake blood and told to scream.

For instance, toward the end, I encountered a "scary clown".  I said "oh, Jack's gonna love you."  And the clown picked up on it, and mercilessly stalked Jack, who, quite coincidentally doesn't like scary clowns.  And so, like Brant freaked out at Kings Island, Jack had a moment or two trying to get out of Detention, the newest element at the Dent Schoolhouse, which is open until November 3rd.

And incidentally, Dent is technically in Green Township.

****************

Post Script: I tease Jack and Brant about being scared easily, but to be honest, it happens to a lot of guys.  Just not me.