Public Employee Press

Night of the ghosts and goblins at DC 37

Ghouls and ghosts, witches and wizards swooped down on union headquarters Oct. 29 as a macabre cast of strange characters celebrated Halloween and raised funds at the DC 37 Black History Committee's annual Masquerade Party.

"The committee and Local 1113 organize this annual fundraiser to help support the events we plan for February and throughout the year," said Local 1113 President and Committee Chair Deborah Pitts, who refereed the party in a striped top and cleated shoes.

This year about 200 DC 37 members and their guests gathered in colorful costumes and frightening masks to enjoy ghoulish fun for a good cause and danced the night away to music by DJ Tam Jams. Beating out Harry Potter, Raggedy Ann, and Freddie Kruger, Finance Dept. employee Raymond Escolin won the party's contest for best costume dressed as a buccaneer right out of "Pirates of the Caribbean."

The proceeds from the Halloween event go to the DC 37 Black History Committee, which sponsors DC 37's monthlong celebration of Black History Month in February, including the popular Family Day, and the union's annual participation in Harlem's African American Day Parade in September as well as cultural events at the union hall that highlight the African Diaspora and heritage.

— DSW