First Person: A community-wide Halloween party for grown-ups
For adults out there who are looking for a good excuse to dress up in costume and celebrate Halloween, listen carefully; it’s the “Haunted” Hodag Howl! In its second year, the Howl takes place November 1 at Rhinelander Quality Inn. Downtown Rhinelander Inc. Executive Director Maggie Steffen spoke about the event and why everyone should attend.
Buyers’ Guide: What is the “Haunted Hodag Howl?”
Maggie Steffen: It’s a Halloween party for adults, first and foremost. Everyone is invited, and wearing a costume is encouraged.The Haunted Hodag Howl is also the only opportunity people will have to buy one of the painted Hodags that have been seen around town. It is also the only true DRI fundraiser held each year; the proceeds are used to expand our efforts to help the downtown businesses.
BG: How are the Hodags sold?
MS: We will have an auctioneer on hand. We are auctioning off one large Hodag and five minis. People who attend are not required to bid on the Hodags, but again, if you want one, this is the only place you can get one.
BG: What else is happening that night”
MS: The party starts at 6:30 p.m. at the Quality Inn. There will be raffles, games and music. Everyone wearing a costume will get five free raffle tickets. Last year about 90 percent of attendees came dressed up. The party is catered and there will be a cash bar. It’s really a lot of fun.
BG: How do the Hodags get decorated for the sale?
MS: Artists from all over submitted designs to us, and from that, we selected several to put their talents to work on the statues. Artists this year are Linda Ferzacca, Wendy Hoffman, Irma Peterson, Kristi Bant, Sara Lee Walters, and I painted one, too. I also want to thank our sponsors – WPS is helping with the party, and Trig’s, Wipfli, People’s State Bank, Ripco Credit Union, Co-Vantage Credit Union, Rhinelander Honda, Rhinelander GM and Bucketheads are Hodag sponsors. Because we are a non-profit, we really couldn’t do these things without community support.
Tickets are $15 and are available for sale at Rhinelander Trig’s and Rhinelander Café and Pub, as well as at the door. Any questions, contact Downtown Rhinelander Inc. at 715-362-7374.
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