The Candle Lighters organization is proud to introduce its 2026 board of directors, a dedicated team of volunteers committed to continuing the iconic Ghost House, one of Fremont’s most cherished community traditions.
The 2026 board includes:
President: Sherri Krahne-Thomas
1st vice president (site): Julie Collins
Assistant site: Jeff Schinkel
2nd vice president (publicity): Alicia Barros
3rd vice president (sponsors): Rocio Keul
Treasurer: Irene Benavidez
Assistant treasurer: Rachel Cortez
Recording secretary: Mary Ann Stoermer
Corresponding secretary: Laura Winter
Communications: Mary Lang
Membership: Susan Algarne-Dickenson
Social: Ruth Lang and Sharon Candelario
Parliamentarian: Caroline Siebert
Founded in 1969, Candle Lighters has spent more than five decades bringing the Tri-City community together through its iconic Ghost House, a volunteer-built Halloween attraction that raises funds for local nonprofits and community organizations. What began as a small local project has grown into a beloved annual event that attracts visitors from across the Bay Area each Halloween season.
The success of the Ghost House is made possible by the tireless work of volunteers and the leadership of the organization’s board members who guide planning, construction, fundraising, publicity and community engagement throughout the year.
“It’s an honor to serve as president of Candle Lighters for the 2026 season,” said president Sherri Krahne-Thomas. “Our organization is built on the dedication of volunteers and the support of our community. We are excited to begin planning another year that brings people together while continuing to give back locally.”
Candle Lighters revealed the 2026 Ghost House theme on Friday, March 13. This year, the Ghost House is titled: Ghost Bride Manor.
The Candle Lighters Instagram set the scene for the upcoming ghost house: “A wedding that never happened. A groom who vanished without a trace. And a bride who never left the manor…For more than a century, whispers have echoed through the halls of the abandoned estate. Now the gates are opening again. Do you dare enter Ghost Bride Manor?”
Community members are encouraged to follow Candle Lighters on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for updates, volunteer opportunities and announcements as preparations begin for another hauntingly creative year.
