Witches plan Halloween ball in Tampa

When it comes to witches, you might think of the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz. But Tina McCabe will tell you she is a witch, and she's not wicked.

McCabe owns the Magickal Happenings shop on Memorial Highway in Tampa. She sells stones, crystals, potions, perfumes, candles, and spells.

"It's nothing evil as long as you believe in love and light and the good," McCabe explained.

McCabe says she's always known she's different, but she didn't come out publicly as a witch until about eight years ago. She started her business in a booth at the Oldsmar Flea Market. Then, last May, she moved into the shopping center.

Toward the rear of the shop is a small room where McCabe does readings. She charges $35 for a look into the future.

McCabe and several other witches in the area are sponsoring the first Witches Ball on Friday, October 30 from 8 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the Hilton Airport/Westshore in Tampa.

For more information on the Magickal Happenings shop and the Witches Ball, visit www.magickalhappenings.com .