Witch School Closes

Its caused a stir since it first moved into town, now the Witch School in Downtown Hoopeston is saying goodbye. Owners of the school said they have felt "discriminated against" since the school first opened in 2003 and that led to the decision to leave. Ed Hubbard said when he opened the Witch School more than three years ago he thought it would be great for the city of Hoopeston. "When we opened our doors we got nationwide attention," Hubbard said. "We brought in 400 visitors." He said bringing in tourists and money was never a problem. It was the way they and their visitors were received that led to their final decision to leave. "They get flak personally. I actually had an employee quit on me several times here because their family members said you shouldnt work for the witches," Hubbard added. There are a number of people in town who want to see the school gone. But several people we talked with said they have every right to set up shop in their town. "I think they have every right to be here, as much as anyone else," said postal worker, Rita Carter. "They have been wonderful for the community. Theyve had some good ideas and some good economic ideas." Hubbard says they have had several offers from other cities to move the business there and as they close up for good here in Hoopeston he hopes something is learned. "Im very sorry this happened this way. I hope other businesses find it friendlier coming in here and I hope maybe this will open the eyes of city council members." The Witch School will still operate over the internet. Hubbard said that part of the business is continuing to grow.