It is time to build an accessible haunted attraction
By Vincent Martinelli, aka “V-Ry the Sports Guy”
As someone with a physical disability who loves the Halloween season, I am often left disappointed. Every year the Andover haunted house looks like a lot of fun but alas, the house is not accessible. I understand that making the Andover attraction accessible is not practical. I suggest a second “pop-up” haunted attraction accessible to everyone.
The Andover haunted house is a landmark and a favorite seasonal area attraction that has its place. When I lived in Henrietta there was a “pos-up” haunted attraction in a vacant storefront and it was amazing. Of course there would be a good deal of logistical issues to figure out but I don’t think it’s impossible. A perfect location for such an attraction would be the vacant Walgreen’s building on Bolivar Road in Wellsville. The building is one level, it’s wide open, it has automatic doors, as well as ample parking.
*Editors note, that space will now become a new Dollar Tree store and is unavailable. But that former Ponderosa/buffett restaurant is still vacant
Such an undertaking would require sponsorship and a lot of volunteers to not only construct the attraction but also to play the ghosts and ghouls. Wellsville and Allegany County as a whole are wonderful communities that are always willing to give back. I am confident that local businesses would be amicable to the idea of a unique advertising opportunity and a chance to give back to the community in which they operate.
Martinelli operates the local Facebook page, “Accessible Wellsville,” and is a sports writer for the Wellsville Sun. You can contact him anytime via email: martinvr55@gmail.com
