Brookdale Alum Designs Boo-DALE BITER Monster Trading Card

In Matawan, New Jersey, a deliciously spooky transformation is underway at the beloved Ice Cream Monster shop. The culprit behind this eerie evolution is none other than John T. Cahill, a talented Brookdale Community College alum with a passion for graphic design and a vivid imagination. Cahill has brought to life a mesmerizing cast of characters through the Ice Cream Monster Spooky Series trading cards, including a limited edition card for the visitors of the Brookdale Haunted Theater.

It all began a year ago when Cahill received a call about redesigning the logo for Ice Cream Monster, a local ice cream parlor known for its creative flavors and Halloween-themed décor. However, this project quickly took on a life of its own when John’s creativity soared to new heights. Instead of just revamping a logo, he teamed up with Ice Cream Monster Chad Simons and conceptualized an entire ensemble of eerie characters to accompany the ice cream shop’s spooky theme.

These hauntingly delightful characters, each with its own unique personality and backstory, have now come to life on trading cards. The Ice Cream Monster Spooky Series features a diverse lineup of monsters, from mischievous ghouls to charming werewolves, making it a must-collect series for both locals and enthusiasts of all things spooky.

To celebrate this eerie endeavor, the Brookdale Haunted Theater has partnered with Cahill and Ice Cream Monster to offer an exclusive limited edition trading card: the “Boo-DALE BITER.” Visitors to the haunted theater will have the opportunity to add the Boo-DALE BITER to their collection of trading cards, each showcasing a different character from the Spooky Series. Those who manage to complete their collection will be rewarded with a free sundae at Ice Cream Monster’s charming location at 347 Matawan Road, Matawan, NJ.

The artistic magic behind these captivating trading cards is attributed to Cahill’s creative talents, developed during his time at Brookdale Community College, where he studied Graphic Design. He continued to refine his skills by pursuing a degree in Cartooning at the School of Visual Arts in New York City. With over 13 years of experience in the graphic design field, Cahill’s dedication and passion shine through in every aspect of his work.

Cahill’s artistic journey led him to Bennett Realty & Development, where he serves as the Marketing Content Coordinator. In this role, he uses his creative mind and design skills to develop new eye-catching advertisements, brochures, and merchandise that tell the company’s story.

Outside of the office, Cahill is a tireless creator. His talents extend to designing illustrations and characters for children’s books, as well as crafting logos and mascots for various businesses. Moreover, he has undertaken a personal challenge, the “365-day workout challenge,” which underscores his determination and commitment to personal growth and well-being.

Reflecting on his journey, Cahill shares, “I’ve loved working with Chad on Ice Cream Monsters, he’s allowed me to combine my design and Cartooning skills in fun new ways! It’s like a dream seeing kids enter the shop for the first time and fall in love with these funny little creatures as they build their own monster sundae.”

The Brookdale Haunted Theater celebrates its 20th year as a multi-award-winning haunted house rated the best in NJ. The entire theater will again be converted into a crazy labyrinth of horror. Although the haunt occurs in a theater, this is not a show where you sit and watch the stage. This is a 20-minute haunted house throughout the facility, with frights and terrors around every corner.

Tickets for the Brookdale Haunted Theater are priced at $20, with an additional $3 service charge. To purchase tickets and learn more about the event, visit the official website.

As the Halloween season approaches, the Brookdale Haunted Theater has a series of thrilling events in store for its visitors:

Hocus Pocus 20th Anniversary Opening Night Event: On Friday, October 13th, at 10:30 p.m., there will be a preshow followed by a screening of the classic movie “Hocus Pocus” at 11:00 p.m. Tickets for this enchanting evening are priced at $12 plus service fees. Get ready for a spooktacular night of fun and magic! Join us for a Halloween celebration like no other. Come dressed to impress in your most enchanting, eerie, or hilarious costumes and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes for the best outfits. Munch on popcorn, candy, and drinks to satisfy your cravings during the movie. Grab your broomsticks and your friends for a wickedly delightful evening. Book your tickets now before they vanish into thin air!

Scaredy Cat Tours – “Fright-Free Backstage Tour”: On October 22nd and 29th, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., join us for a thrilling adventure at the Brookdale Haunted Theater, where even the most timid souls can participate in the fun! This tour is priced at $10 plus service fees. Embark on a delightful and fright-free experience as you guide yourself through the haunted house. Friendly actors await, ready to share fascinating behind-the-scenes features of the Brookdale Haunted Theater. Collect candy treats from the actors and enjoy an outside tent where you can paint a pumpkin (while supplies last). Take advantage of this family-friendly Halloween extravaganza where fear takes a backseat, and laughter and candy reign supreme!

Rocky Horror Picture Show: On October 27th, at 10:00 p.m., there will be a preshow followed by the movie screening at 11:00 p.m. Tickets for this electrifying night are priced at $12 plus service fees. Come dressed in your most extravagant costumes and enter our thrilling costume contest to win fabulous prizes. Immerse yourself in the Rocky Horror world with our entertaining virgin sacrifice ceremony and drag show. To fully participate in the fun, grab a Rocky Horror prop bag for only $5 (while supplies last). Delicious concessions will keep you energized throughout the night. Hosted by the fabulous Drag Queens Lady Celestina and Daisy Maize, this event guarantees a night of joy, laughter, and surprises! Don’t miss out on this spectacular celebration of Rocky Horror Picture Show fandom.

Haunted Theater Dates and Times:

October 13, 14, & 15; 20, 21, & 22; 27, 28, & 29

Opening Night is Friday the 13th

6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

(Parking is most convenient in Lot 2)

Tickets are available online HERE, and for inquiries, please call the BOX OFFICE at 732-224-2411 or email brookdalehauntedtheater@gmail.com

As Halloween approaches, the Ice Cream Monster Spooky Series trading cards promise to be the talk of the town. With Cahill’s artistic touch, the monsters have indeed come alive, leaving residents and visitors alike spellbound by this captivating fusion of art, ice cream, and the spirit of Halloween. So, why wait? Get your tickets today for the Haunted Theater, or head over to Ice Cream Monster and join the quest to collect all 10 Spooky Series trading cards—it’s the perfect treat for the season!