Public Employee Press

The horror, the horror
Ghostly ghouls invade DC 37

Ghastly creatures, scary witches, French maids and a masked bandito partied at a fright night of fun Oct. 28 at DC 37's annual Halloween masquerade party, sponsored by Local 1113 and the Black History Committee.

Volunteers transformed Rooms 1-3 into a ghoulish graveyard with tombstones, cobwebs and bats for the more than 200 members, families and friends who came to shake a tail feather to the master mixes of DJ Big Lou.

"This fundraiser supports the events the DC 37 Black History Committee organizes year-round, and the special month-long celebration of Black History Month in February," said Local 1113 President and Committee Chair Deborah Pitts.

Three-month-old baby Lenore, the daughter of Local 1507 President Sirra Crippen-Browne, sported kitten ears for the party and DC 37 members got into the holiday spirit with costumes inspired by Halloween, the Hollywood big screen and lively imaginations. Revelers enjoyed card games, board games, backgammon, dominoes and dancing and feasted on plates of spicy Caribbean and soul food.

Dressed as Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa, Local 371 member Gary Branch won the prize for best costume, a pair of store gift cards. Pitts said, "This year's party was a huge success. We got a lot of support from the committee and volunteers, DC37 members and several locals. Every year this party gets bigger and better."

The DC 37 Black History Committee uses the proceeds to support participation in Harlem's annual African American Day Parade, Black History Month opening night, Family Day and Finale Night at the Council, and other events that are publicized in the Public Employee Press.

—Diane S. Williams