Please Don't Quote Me Now the quiet and privacy prevail. A modern bridge replaced the dam and even though the two rutted paths, once a major trail meet up top, a big mud hole seemed a portent of things to come so we turned back and, unlike Lewis and Clark, went into Polo for a piece of pie and a cup of coffee. It was, however, interesting to again think of the richness of the past of the place we live and the stories they have to tell.
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Ghouls Descend Upon Savanna's Haunted ForestBy Michael Miller For The Prairie Advocate NewsLock the doors and bar the hinges; the quiet town of Savanna, Illinois has been invaded by all manner of unearthly creatures for the second straight year thanks to the Haunted Forest attraction behind Poopy's. The annual event which was put on by a variety of area businesses and organizations including Poopy's, Tangles, Full House Flooring, First Savanna Savings Bank, the Savanna Fire Department, the Train Car Museum and the Savanna Historical Society, took citizens on a thrill filled wagon ride through the woods that induced both hearty laughs and bloodcurdling screams. Forty plus workers were involved in the setup and performance of the forest. Patrons got an approximately twenty minute ride wherein they met celebrated goblins from past and present, from Hollywood creations like Pinhead and Michael Meyers to folklore legends like witches, demons and werewolves. The barren, skeletal trees, the fog enshrouded sets and the creative use of lights and even music contributed to the eerie atmosphere, and patrons were advised to be on alert for sudden shocks and chills along the way. The Haunted Forest is located directly behind Poopy's, on Viaduct Road in Savanna. The brainchild of several people including city council member Merle Long, Paul Hartman and Poopy himself, the Haunted Forest grew out of the desire to use the 54 acres of city land for something productive that would benefit the community. Each group has the option of taking a portion of the proceeds, or leaving it in for the following year's expenses. A certain percentage of the proceeds are being donated to the Savanna Fire Department and should help finance various equipment and fireworks. Councilman Long says he's very proud of the way the event has turned out and that there are a variety of changes and improvements that are being considered for future years, depending on available funds. Animatronics are one such possibility, as is extending the trail itself. Event organizers have also considered making a bigger loop in the tour, which would allow them to add another tractor (currently three are used). Long says they want to hold the line on raising fees as it's a small town attraction and many people can't afford higher prices. The Haunted Forest is open during October every year. It's a unique holiday experience that you're not likely to forget, and one that will serve the double purpose of entertaining you and helping you help the community as well. So mark your calendars for Halloween 2009, bring a warm jacket and a steady nerve and get ready to be chilled to your very bones!
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