The item on Craigslist stood out between the ads for "swimsuit models needed" and "KITV weekend weather anchor":

"Do you have a fascination with ghost stories? Are you familiar with Oahu's haunted sites? We have a part-time position for a Ghost Tour Guide."

Chris Spears, owner of Oahu Ghost Tours, says he's had about 50 applications so far. Part of it is the economy — people looking to make a little extra money with a side job. But it's also because some folks really love this stuff.

"Sure, it's about extra income, but they do it because it's enjoyable to them," Spears said. "It can be a fun job and it allows them to practice their craft."

In 1999, Spears started Real Hawaii Eco-Cultural tours, which caters to large groups and private tours rather than independent travelers. The idea for ghost tours grew out of a culture tour where guides talked about Hawaiian mythology. People asked for more spooky stories, so Spears started up the ghost tours 2 years ago.

Many of those who have applied for the tour guide position are from the local theater community, which fits what Spears is searching for. He's looking for performance skills, the ability to weave a good story and get people nicely scared. But he also wants people who know local lore.

Spears says he can vet the true believers from the "I'm a real fast learner — where's the script?" types in the initial phone conversation.

"The folks I've hired have been seekers of the supernatural all their lives," he said. "They've had experiences."

The employment ad spells out the job requirements this way:

"This position is intense and IS NOT for the weak of heart. If you cannot handle being up close and personal with some of Oahu's most haunted locations, and do not possess the skills necessary, then please do not apply."

All of the current tour guides have regular day jobs and do this at night. Some are musicians, one is a teacher. Their bios and their personal spooky stories are on the company's Web site, www.oahughosttours.com.

The pay ranges from $14 to $20 an hour, depending on experience. Often the guides receive tips, though they are not allowed to solicit tips in any way.

Spears says his clients are a mix of believers and non-believers, tourists and locals. It's the locals who are toughest on the tour guides.

"They know the stories," he said. "It's a challenge for us, it's what keeps us in check. They keep us true to form."

He hasn't yet hired anyone for the job, a part-time relief position that could lead to a more regular gig. The company is expanding its nightly tours from six days a week to seven. The economy may be scary but people still like a good spooky story.

Lee Cataluna's column runs Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Reach her at 535-8172 or lcataluna@honoluluadvertiser.com.