Monday, May 6, 2024
Lovers of the paranormal will enjoy taking part in the Shad Ramsey Memorial Ghost Hunt on June 25 from 8 p.m. to midnight at the Langdon Music Hall, 305 E. Bridge St.
The event is hosted by Research and Investigation of the Paranormal, LLC, a local ghost hunter group founded by Greg Stephens, a former first sergeant E-8 and senior non-commissioned officer in the Army. Members involved with RIP are currently trying to get approval as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
“Our mission is to help as many people as we can, particularly veterans, first responders, historic associations and anyone who feels like they have any sort of a spirit in their home, something that is scaring them or they're just feeling like they're crazy. We hope by October to be nonprofit ourselves,” said Perri Parker, RIP coordinator. “He (Stephens) will go in and investigate and there's no charge. He doesn't ever charge anyone in need. He’s just got a heart of gold under that rough, first sergeant exterior.”
During the ghost hunt, attendees will be conducting their own paranormal investigation of places reportedly haunted in Hood County like the Langdon Chapel, Gordon House, the Baker Carmichael House and Carriage House. The last two homes have never before been investigated.
“We have all of our equipment that measures the activity, and we just help you to do the investigation,” Parker said. “It's your investigation, not ours. We've got some really cool equipment that picks up evidence; it's just fun.”
Leila Olivarri, an assistant regional director for the Warren Legacy Foundation, will be RIP’s guest investigator.
Acclaimed author Teal L. Gray will be reading an excerpt from her latest book, “Haunted Denton,” as well as signing her works.
Bestselling author Susan Hill, known for her book, “The Woman in Black,” will also be signing her latest book, “A Change of Circumstance.”
Vendors and entertainment will be starting at 2 p.m. Complimentary snacks and drinks will be available through every ticket purchase.
The event is scheduled to be an annual event, named in honor of well-known community photographer Shad Ramsey, who passed away on Nov. 9, 2021.
“Shad Ramsey was a really good friend to Greg and RIP,” Parker said. “He really supported Greg in everything he did. He opened many doors for RIP to be able to help the causes dearest to our heart. After memorializing Shad at our last fundraiser in February, we decided to create an annual event which would keep the legacy of his devotion to this community and RIP going.”
“Shad loved everything we did and was a huge supporter and friend. When he passed so unexpectedly last year, we wanted to find a way to honor him,” Stephens said.
All of the proceeds raised from the event will benefit the RALLY Project, a nonprofit organization that supports many military veteran causes locally including the Field of Flags.
Tickets were originally $100, but prices have since been reduced.
"Because the price of gas, food and everything else is hurting so many, we lowered the ticket price by 40% to $60 to make it affordable for more people. We know everyone is struggling," Parker added.
Tickets are limited, with only 75 available, and can be purchased at texasrip.org/ShadRamsey. Donations can be sent through Venmo @texasrip.
To learn more about the historic places RIP will investigate, visit the Research and Investigation of the Paranormal Facebook page.
“This event is special due to Shad Ramsey’s love of our little town called Granbury and we loved Shad,” Stephens added. “We are hoping to have a great turnout for this event, as it serves dual purpose, honoring Shad and supporting one of our favorite charities, The RALLY Project.”
