FISH holding fundraiser at old state prison

Visitors who hold a fascination with the paranormal are invited to attend Friends in Serving Helping’s (FISH) Historic Prison Breakout fundraising event from 3 to 8 p.m. May 18 for a unique experience and to raise visibility, according to Executive Director Jim Peckham.

The event will offer self-guided tours of the 150-year-old Nevada State Prison, which once housed up to 841 inmates and was closed in 2012.

During the event, attendees can view a looping video telling a story of the facility and items of interest found within it.

“It’ll be Halloween in May,” Peckham said. “If they want to come dressed up in prison apparel, they can. It’s just a unique kind of site.”

There will be live music, food and magic performances by Phoenix Phenomenal. Packages will be offered focusing on Carson City and neighboring counties to generate interest in local businesses in Douglas, Lyon and Lake Tahoe, Peckham said.

“They can get a haircut here or come buy jewelry there,” he said. “There’s something we’ll bring together to make multiple visits for a particular community.”

Room rates also will be offered in hotels in each community to invite visitors to spend a weekend locally as well, he said.

Funds raised will benefit the preservation of the prison and FISH’s student housing project.

Tickets and sponsorships are available.

The Nevada State Prison is located at 3301 E. Fifth St. Guests must wear closed-toed walking shoes and be 21 or older.

For information, visit eventbright.com/carsoncity or call 775-882-3474, extension 0.