Part of Coldwell Banker ‘Ghostbusters’ display vandalized last week

Slimer, one part of Coldwell Banker’s “Ghostbusters”-themed entry in Benicia Main Street’s scarecrow contest, was stolen last Sunday then quickly recovered. (Photo by Nick Sestanovich)

When there’s something strange in your neighborhood, who ya gonna call?

Normally, the correct response would be Ghostbusters, but sometimes the problem fixes itself before that foursome arrives.

Last Sunday before 1 a.m., Coldwell Banker had part of its entry in Benicia Main Street’s scarecrow contest stolen, but the item was quickly returned. The First Street real estate office’s “scarecrow” is a “Ghostbusters” entry inspired by the recent movie featuring images of the characters from that film set against a painted backdrop with the signature car and other assorted items. The centerpiece is an inflated Slimer, the blobby green ghost. Assistant Sales Manager Jeff Dennis said it was originally an inflatable Slimer costume.

“We realized we couldn’t make it inflated, so we had to stuff it with plastic bags and packing peanuts,” he said.

One employee was a set designer who provided the materials, and others assisted with the painting. Dennis said the project took about a week to complete.

However, the display did become a target of vandalism last week when a young male walked by. Initially, he appeared to be either talking on his cellphone or taking pictures. He then proceeded to grab the Slimer from the wire it was attached to and ran off with it. The entire incident was captured by security cameras.

“From what I was told, (he) took him to a young lady’s house and left him on the front porch as a gift or peace offering,” Dennis said.

However, the girl’s mother learned what had happened and returned Slimer to Coldwell Banker where the ghost was reinstalled. Dennis said the real estate office will not be pressing charges.

“It was just kids being kids,” he said. “No damage was done. We are missing a couple beach balls that we used to stuff it, but we took care of that.”

Dennis was happy to have Slimer back safely, but he noted that future vandalism would not be tolerated.

“Any further issues will be dealt with,” he said.

In other news, Coldwell Banker ain’t afraid of no ghost robbers dampening their spirit. To coincide with the costume contest on Saturday, Oct. 22, Coldwell will be hosting a costume party of its own following the event. People can show up in Halloween garb and receive a temporary tattoo, enjoy popcorn from a popcorn machine and take part in other amenities. Coldwell Banker is located at 900 First St. For more information, call the office at 745-6000. Tomorrow is the last day to vote in Benicia Main Street’s scarecrow contest. Visit BeniciaMainStreet.org to cast votes for your three favorites. The scarecrows will remain up until the end of the month.

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