Evan Buchholz

Hello! One of the more interesting of Athens’ business and locations is, in my opinion, that of Zombie Farms – a haunted trail deep in the woods of Winterville, run by your seemingly average family. Last October it was my privilege to work for this charming lot, doing my part as the very first person people came across on their journey through the woods. Now, although I was indeed participating in this haunted trail, my job description was not - explicitly - to provide those much-desired frights. Instead, I managed the queue line and front door, making sure not too many people were in the trail proper and communicating via radio to those in place behind me to keep an eye out for security concerns.

When the first night rolled around, I wasn’t at all looking to be scary. My mindset would have been described as trying to be professional and helpful. As the radio crackled and I heard of the first small group of guests coming down the trail towards me, I opened the door and stood behind it since that was the only place I could be and not block the path. When the first group crossed the threshold and peered past the door, in my effort to be helpful, I kindly informed them to “Please follow the lights!”

Lo and behold, the first scream shook the night! Followed, of course, by my own surprised scream and apology! You see, there existed a light in front of the door that, when it was open, cast a deep shadow that perfectly hid me in my dark cape. It took about an hour for me to realize that this result should be encouraged! This was a haunted trail after all, and so I became better and better at manipulating my situation to accidentally scare as many people as possible. Even people I had been talking to seemed to forget my existence once I stepped behind my door, only to be reminded seconds later when I appeared to them again.

This was a great experience, and I must say I am happy to be returning to fill the same position this next Halloween as well!