VIENNA, Ohio — Members of the Darkride And Funhouse Enthusiasts, a.k.a. DAFE (pronounced “daffy”), received a Halloween trick on the cover of their fall magazine in the form of the announcement of the “death” of the organization. Now, the board offers the treat: a newly-branded organization, magazine, and host of member opportunities for its sixteenth year in support of the amusement industry.

Now formally called the Dark ATTRACTION and Funhouse Enthusiasts (still DAFE), the group acknowledges the growing base of membership that includes fans and professionals who support seasonal haunted attractions, 4-D shows and simulators, other walkthrough experiences, and the growing list of “hybrid” dark attractions that do not fall under the traditional definitions of “darkride” and “funhouse.”

“DAFE’s roots involve promotion and preservation of classic amusement area rides and funhouses. The name change highlights the role of nontraditional amusements and venues continuing this tradition in the Twenty-first Century while continuing to share our love of attractions from days past” notes Chris Handa, DAFE PR Coordinator.

In addition to the broadening of categories of interest, DAFE will launch Dark Times, a quarterly magazine that replaces its predecessor, Barrel O’ Fun. The magazine will continue to include content related to both the history of dark attractions, news, and reports related to attractions and amusement areas on an international level contributed by the membership and industry professionals. The change in title increases awareness of DAFE to the growing haunted attraction community who may not be aware of the many opportunities and activities related to this specific interest.

As the Board of Directors works on a new logo to go with the name change, it also works hand-in-hand with amusement industry professionals associated with amusement parks, seasonal haunted attractions, and vendors who serve both sectors of the industry. The goal: increase membership in this growing sector while providing additional special members-only opportunities such as organized trips to dark attractions, behind-the scenes tours and articles, and a discount program for card-carrying members. Other projects include the revamping of the official website, dafe.org, and an expanded social media presence.

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