Отмена благотворительного мероприятия «Ghost Walk» в Корнуолле из-за проблем со строительством

Ghost Walk for Charity volunteers dressed in spooky costumes. Photo: Jason Setnyk T he Ghost Walk for Charity has cancelled its 2026 season, affecting hundreds of volunteers, including students who rely on the event to earn community-service hours required for high school graduation, as well as local organizations that benefit from its fundraising. The Cornwall-based non-profit announced the cancellation on social media, saying “unexpected circumstances” beyond its control mean the haunted attraction will not take place this fall. Organizers did not publicly identify the circumstances behind the decision and apologized to those affected. However, City of Cornwall notices posted at 1 Water St. E., the Cornwall Square property where the Ghost Walk had been preparing a temporary ground-floor space, provide context around work at the site. An Order to Comply and Stop Work Order were both issued July 17. The first states walls were being constructed within a ground-floor suite without a building permit and required a complete permit application and permit by Aug. 17. The Stop Work Order directed that construction cease until authorized by the Chief Building Official. The City was asked to confirm the status of the orders and comment on the situation, but had not responded after approximately 24 hours as Seaway News went to press. The Ghost Walk has not publicly stated that the orders caused the cancellation. Founder and chairman Mike Turcotte said his biggest concerns are volunteers, the community and organizations that depend on the fundraiser. “I think what’s really important first and foremost are the 250 student volunteers,” Turcotte said. “These young kids, a lot of them, it’s their first sort of work-life experience and a chance to make friends. They learn what it’s like to be part of something bigger and giving back to your community.” Turcotte said the event has become a Cornwall Halloween tradition over nearly a decade. He said about 30 organizations applied for funding this year. “When you compile that all together, that’s the most disappointing part,” he said. Founded in 2017, the Ghost Walk grew from haunted-garage displays Turcotte created at his home into a large indoor attraction with themed rooms, actors and special effects. Last year, the organization distributed $36,000 to community organizations. Six groups received $5,000 each, while another $6,000 was allocated through its Community Grant Program. The cancellation does not mean the organization is shutting down. Turcotte said South Stormont has reached out and is actively helping the Ghost Walk look for a potential location for 2027. One possible site, about seven minutes from Cornwall, is being explored but has not been confirmed. “The Ghost Walk isn’t looking for a handout,” Turcotte said. “We’re just looking for the opportunity to continue giving back, and whether it’s in Cornwall or South Stormont, we’re gonna do it.”