A Ghostly Reappearance

One of the most wildly popular features of last year's Kansas City Irish Fest was the appearance of Barry FitzGerald, star of TV's Ghost Hunters International. He drew huge crowds of people to his talks on our heritage stage, where he regaled them with his true adventures in the supernatural world.

Well, I'm excited and a little scared to announce that Barry is back, making his second appearance at KCIF in 2009.

Barry FitzGerald, a veteran ghost-hunter with 18 years of experience in paranormal investigating, is memorable to Ghost Hunters fans for his work on TAPS' investigations in Europe, during the show's third season. Now, as a member of the new GHI team, Barry supplies his expertise in both ghost-hunting as well as his knowledge of the historical locations of each new investigation.

Haunted by supernatural events he experienced as a child growing up in Ireland, Barry developed an interest in paranormal research and went on to work for two different paranormal groups based in Northern Ireland. He now dedicates much of his time to the development of new investigative techniques and research methods.

A lifetime resident of Ireland, Barry previously worked as the warden for the Southern Education and Library Board, where he arranged weekends away for youths and worked on conflict issues and cross-border projects, allowing communities from either side of the cultural divide in Northern Ireland to work together and develop friendships. He is also an avid writer and cook.

You'll have plenty of opportunity to hear and meet Barry as he's here all weekend. Heritage stage schedules will be posted soon. Scary stuff awaits. Boo!