The third annual zombie walk will take place at the Cornwall Volunteer Ambulance Corps bay. Hunters will try to “capture” the zombies attempting to take over the town.
The zombie invasion is coming to Cornwall – again. The undead have rallied their troops in preparation for another takeover attempt and it will once again be up to the hunters to save the town from peril.
On Oct. 22, from 5 to 9 p.m., Cornwall High School student Abigail Moore will conduct her third annual zombie event.
The first year was kept relatively simple. Participants dressed as zombies and walked from Brid’s Closet on Main Street to Town Hall, and then back again for a potluck dinner. That year about $260 was raised for the Hudson Valley SPCA.
Last year, the event was modified. Rather than a walk, hunters were invited to try and capture the zombies by grabbing the flags they were wearing, similar to a game of flag football. The hunt was confined to Main Street in front of Brid’s Closest, Hazard’s Pharmacy, and the municipal lot. The event successfully raised $250 for the Woodbury Animal Shelter.
As she continues to fine-tune the event, Moore made another change heading into next month. Safety became a concern with participants running in the street, so the location is being changed. What could be safer than the grounds of the Cornwall Volunteer Ambulance Corps?
“Cars sometimes fly down the street, so it’s hard to make sure everyone is safe,” said Moore.
Police were not required to monitor the chase, nor were there any incidents.
Eric Noll and Elizabeth Moore spoke to COVAC’s chief, as well as the Town Board, and received permission to use the facility. Details are still being worked out in terms of where on the grounds the hunt will take place and how people will be able to get to the ambulance bay. It’s suggested those who can, should walk to the corner of Clinton Street and Hasbrouck Avenue.
Like last year, hunters can volunteer to participate while zombies pay $5 to receive five flags. Once all flags are captured, zombies may choose to pay $1 for an additional flag. In honor of the 15th anniversary of 9/11, Moore said the money will be donated to COVAC.
Puppy Paws, The Elizabeth Collection, and Brid’s Closet are sponsoring the event.
As to why Moore continues to invest time in organizing the event, she said, “I love dressing up, putting on make up and doing crazy stuff like that. It also gives back to the community.”
Moore also enjoys seeing young kids dressed as zombies and the costume choices of the older participants.
Come Oct. 22, expect to see a lot of (fake) blood, face paint to give that zombified appearance, as well as torn clothing. Some hunters will be taking their job seriously by trying to remain incognito dressed in camouflage.