Former educators gather annually for Halloween fun

October 31, 2019 | 3:41 pm

Updated October 31, 2019 | 3:41 pm

Photo contributed by Jill Estes

The cold temperatures and high winds didn’t put a stop to the hocus pocus of a group of eight friends, who gathered for their annual Halloween get-together Thursday.

The eight women, mostly retired educators from Hancock County ranging from 60 to 70 years old, dress in elaborate witch costumes, gather for a quick “poison apple punch” before hitting the town and grabbing lunch together.

This year the ladies even made a stop at a funeral home for a photo op with a hearse.

“We do cast spells at a reasonable rate,” joked Sonia Emmick.

Five of the eight women were former educators at Lewisport Elementary School, while the others are friends that joined in on the fun. Many of the women have known each other for decades, with others boasting lifelong friendships.

The witches have been dressing in costume for the Halloween outing for three years, but the holiday isn’t the only occasion they celebrate.

“We go out to eat on the first day of school to celebrate our retirement and the last day before Christmas break,” said Jamie Estes, adding that ugly sweaters are always worn for the Christmas gathering.

The women take any opportunity to get together to celebrate — noting they even had a divorce party for one in the group.

“One divorce, two parties,” said Lisa Aldridge. “It took two to get it done.

After lunch at Friday’s, the crew of eight were headed to Maggie’s Cupcakes for dessert.

“Every good witch needs to eat a few cupcakes,” Emmick said.

Beyond that, the ladies weren’t sure what the day would hold.

“We may go to Kohl’s if we have a 30 percent coupon,” joked Karen Keenan.

The women said they always get reactions during their Halloween get-together. Customers in the restaurant stopped them for photos.

“People always come up to us and think it’s great that these old ladies get together and do this,” Estes said.

October 31, 2019 | 3:41 pm

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