TAROT IN THE NEWS
Here's a sampling of mostly mainstream news articles focused on the Tarot, psychics, and other related topics. The articles featured may or may not be positive representations of the tarot/psychic world. They also may or may not take positions I personally agree with. They're simply the straight stories as told by whatever media outlet they came from.
If you have any comments you'd like to share regarding any of these items, I'd love to hear from you.
For Good Or Bad, Channeling The Paranormal Has Become The Medium Of Choice - Denver Post - February 21, 2010
Between-world spirits, reincarnated beings and plain old dead folks are casting shadows all over the network schedules. It's a good time to be a ghost on TV. Some are old-fashioned spooky phantoms, others are figments of quantum physics, having fallen out of their places on the space-time continuum. That can be pretty spooky, too. read full article . . . .
Ribble Valley Businessman Unveils Psychic School Plans - Lancashire Telegraph - February 17, 2010
A RIBBLE Valley businessman is bidding to buy a huge castle to open Britain’s first ‘psychic school of excellence’. Clitheroe-based Kevin Horkin has put in an offer of £850,000 to buy the derelict Grade I-listed Gwrych Castle in Abergele, North Wales. read full article . . . .
Tarot-Inspired Flashforward Ads Offer Glimpses Of A Shiny Future - iO9 - February 17, 2010
If FlashForward's plotting was half as sleek as these Tarot-themed Brazilian ads, maybe fate wouldn't have dealt the show the "Apathetic Audience" card. read full article . . . .
Woman Convicted In Fortune-Teller Murders - Orange County Register - February 16, 2010
A North Carolina woman sat motionless in court Tuesday as she was convicted of murdering a Westminster fortune teller and her daughter in April 2005 after she received a fortune that did not come true. read full article . . . .
Hong Kong to have more luck in Year of the Tiger - AFP - February 15, 2010
Hong Kong's luck will improve in the Year of the Tiger according to the results of an annual Lunar New Year fortune-telling ceremony held on Monday. In a closely watched ritual, lawmaker Lau Wong-fat shook a bundle of numbered bamboo fortune sticks until one fell to the ground, number 53, which was later interpreted by a stick-reader to be the harbinger of better times. read full article . . . .
Italians Spend £5 billion a Year on Fortune Tellers and Astrology - Telebraph UK - February 7, 2010
Italy's worst recession since the Second World War has prompted Italians to spend a staggering £5 billion a year seeking financial advice not from banks and brokers but fortune tellers and astrologers. read full article . . . .
Pink Ouija Board Game Aimed at Young Girls Prompts Boycott - Digital Journal - February 6, 2010
A pink version of the Ouija Board game, made by Hasbro and sold at Toys R Us locations throughout the U.S. and Canada, has been targeted by Christian groups concerned that it is encouraging young girls to communicate with the spirits of the dead. read full article . . . .
Sign Of The Times - Indian Express - January 30, 2010
Does the surge in popularity of western forms of fortune telling like tarot card reading or crystal ball gazing fortell a bleak future for Indian astrology? While Anirban Mallick and Sushmita Bhattacharya, now a couple, bluntly refused to see an astrologer for horoscope matching, they did not mind going to tarot card reader to know about their future marital life. The recent trend suggests an upsurge in the popularity of western astrology among the youth. read full article . . . .
The Art Of Tarot At L.A.'s Craft And Folk Art Museum - LA Times - January 28, 2010
Earlier this week The Times' arts section ran this story on a new tarot card exhibition at the Craft and Folk Art Museum. "The Fool's Journey: The History and Symbolism of the Tarot," which opened last weekend and runs through May 9, places tarot cards in a cultural and artistic context. The show already has been unexpectedly successful, according to a museum spokeswoman. read full article . . . .
Chesterfield Looks To Change ‘Good Character’ Permit Laws - Richmond Times-Dispatch - January 26, 2010
Chesterfield County is looking to repeal its "good character" requirements for certain business permits after a spiritual counselor filed a lawsuit accusing the county of violating her constitutional rights. Last month, Patricia Moore-King, who operates under the name "Psychic Sophie," filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Richmond alleging that the county is discriminating by requiring her to go to great lengths to obtain a business license. read full article . . . .
Star-Gazers Sway Sri Lanka Election - AFP - January 25, 2010
While the end of Sri Lanka's 37-year civil war has shaped this Tuesday's presidential election, celestial alignments and astrologers have exerted huge influence on the contest behind the scenes. read full article . . . .
Spiritual Adviser Suing Chesterfield County - Richmond Times-Dispatch - January 21, 2010
A spiritual counselor has filed a lawsuit against Chesterfield County in U.S. District Court in Richmond, claiming that the county is discriminating against her and her beliefs through over-regulation. Sophie King says Chesterfield is violating her constitutional rights to free speech, free exercise of religion and equal protection by failing to differentiate between fortunetellers and spiritual counselors. read full article . . . .
Surviving Through Fortunetelling - Hurriyet Daily News and Economic Review - January 15, 2010
Coffeehouse culture dates back to the 16th century, in the Ottoman era, and has remained an indispensable part of our social life for centuries. As old-style establishments try to survive changes in consumption habits, fortunetelling is one of the best ways for traditional coffeehouses to compete against modern chains. read full article . . . .
On The Cards: Society Girl ‘Foresaw’ Battersea Blaze In Tarot Reading - Guardian UK - January 8, 2010
A former glamour model and society girl, who fled a raging fire that destroyed a popular Battersea restaurant on New Year’s Day, said her life was saved because of a meeting with a celebrity tarot reader. read full article . . . .
Otsego Business Owner Charged With Misdemeanor Under Ordinance That Bans Fortunetelling For Money - Kalamazoo News - January 7, 2010
The owner of a new business in downtown Otsego thought she had a way to get around a 93-year-old city ordinance that prohibits psychic readings for money. But police allege Melissa Lesterhouse and a part-time employee still managed to violate the ordinance. Late last month, Otsego Police Chief Gordon Konkle issued misdemeanor citations against them for allegedly charging an Otsego undercover officer $15 for a psychic reading at the store, Bewitching Wares. read full article . . . .
Chesterfield’s War On Fortune-Tellers - Richmond Biz Sense - December 21, 2009
A Chesterfield tarot card reader and spiritual counselor has filed a federal lawsuit alleging that the county has violated her constitutional rights after misclassifying her business and denying her a license. read full article . . . .
Survey Finds Complexity In U.S. Religious Beliefs - Washington Post - December 10, 2009
Can you believe in Jesus and in astrology? The answer is a resounding yes, according to a study that shows Americans' beliefs to be more complex than might be expected. read full article . . . .
Saudi Arabia Urged To Quash Witchcraft Death Sentence - BBC - November 25, 2009
The New York-based group Human Rights Watch has called on Saudi Arabia to overturn a death sentence given to a man convicted of practising witchcraft. The organisation said Ali Sibat appeared to have been condemned because of psychic predictions he had made on Lebanese TV from his home in Beirut. He was arrested during his pilgrimage to the Saudi city of Medina last year. read full article . . . .
Brazilian Senate Calls On A “Medium” To Explain Major Blackout Causes - MercoPress - November 20, 2009
Last week’s huge blackout in Brazil which left 18 of the country’s 26 states in the dark is becoming a major embarrassment for the government with opposition Senators summoning a medium to help explain the causes of the outage. read full article . . . .
Police Worker Wins Psychic Ruling - BBC - November 12, 2009
A police employee sacked for claiming psychics should be used to crack crimes has won a landmark ruling that his views should be seen as a faith. Alan Power, 62, from Merseyide, claimed he was forced out of his job with Greater Manchester Police because of his spiritualist views in October 2008. read full article . . . .
Police Probed Claims By Psychics - BBC - November 5, 2009
Police have defended an investigation into unfounded claims by psychics that a man who took his own life had actually been murdered. Dyfed-Powys Police said they had a responsibility to victims and families to investigate all deaths thoroughly. read full article . . . .
Outlook Not So Good on Jay Leno’s Psychic Sit-Down - The New York Times - November 4, 2009
... Mr. Leno didn’t make a much stronger case for himself in a segment that ran Tuesday night on “The Jay Leno Show,” in which the “Paranormal Activity” stars Katie Featherston and Micah Sloat had the host sit down with Sylvia Browne, the psychic and spiritual medium. (This was somehow part of the penance that Ms. Featherston and Mr. Sloat had to pay to promote their film.) read full article . . . .
Cumbrian Tarot-Reader Hoping To Have Set Guinness orld Record - Times &Star - November 2, 2009
Mark Hankin, 44, of Whitehaven, saw a total of 75 people’s futures during the mammoth Halloween stint at the Helena Thompson Museum, Workington, on Saturday. And, though he didn’t realise his “ambitious” target of 240 readings, he still hailed the event a success – and hopes his efforts will land him a place in the Guinness Book of Records. read full article . . . .
Cristiano Ronaldo Cursing His Luck After Witch's Spell - goal.com - October 22, 2009
Cristiano Ronaldo may put fans under his spell with his magic and trickery on the ball, but he is now the subject of a curse that a witch claims is going to ruin his career. read full article . . . .
Sask. police cold toward psychics - CBC - October 19, 2009
Saskatchewan police charged with investigating unsolved cases are reluctant to appeal for psychic intervention when leads run dry, according to a Saskatoon psychic. Barb Powell, a psychic medium, said she rarely is approached by local police to help in ongoing cold case investigations, but does get criminal case work from some southern U.S. states. read full article . . .
Fortune-telling returns to Ocean Front Walk - Santa Monica Daily Press - October 16, 2009
Palm reading, tarot cards and crystal balls can soon make their way back to Ocean Front Walk. Following concerns about First Amendment protections, the City Council on Tuesday approved an ordinance that expands the areas where fortune-telling is allowed to Ocean Front Walk, Lincoln Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard. The activity was restricted to the Santa Monica Pier. read full article . . . .
Psychic wins battle with Gilbert over permit - AZ Central - October 3, 2009
A Gilbert psychic has challenged the town's license and permit fees and won. Paula Parris said the requirements to get a license and permit as a fortune teller in Gilbert were "excessive," costing her $1,300 more than most other businesses. The Town Council agreed, and removed the fortune teller fees and authorized staff to reimburse Parris and anyone else charged in 2009. read full article . . . . .
Fears Occult Centre Will Target Students - Cambridge News - October 1, 2009
CHURCH leaders fear an occult centre due to open on Christmas Eve will target Cambridge University students. read full article . . . .
North End Business Not In The Cards For Psychic - WBZTV - September 29, 2009
Boston - You could call her the psychic who didn't predict her own misfortune. Sophia Anderson set up shop in Boston's famous Italian North End neighborhood September 19th. "I do psychic, tarot cards, palm readings. I do candles, crystals, incense," she explains. Her vision never included the chilly reception she's now getting from some locals who feel she just doesn't fit in. read full article . . . .
Santa Monica allows fortune tellers to expand territory in future - LA Times - September 25, 2009
Fortune tellers may soon be able to expand their fortunes in Santa Monica after the City Council voted to allow them to operate on three main tourist-friendly streets. Previously, fortune telling business had been restricted to Ocean Front Walk at the Santa Monica Pier. read full article . . . .
Smashing Pumpkins to release free 44-track 'album' - Guardian - September 17, 2009
. . . . According to a statement, the music "hearkens back to the original psychedelic roots of the [band]: atmospheric, melodic, heavy, and pretty". It is inspired by the tarot, Corgan said, "breaking down the journey of our life here into four phases as made by these different characters; the Child, the Fool, the Sceptic, and the Mystic". read full article . . . .
China issues new TV regulations - Variety - September 14, 2009
China's State Administration of Radio, Film and Television has issued a raft of new regulations aimed at curbing the amount of airtime given over to commercials and also banning ads for a number of products. read full article . . . .
Gypsy Challenges MoCo Fortunetelling Ban - NBC Washington - August 17, 2009
Oops, did we refer to him as a Gypsy? As the Washington Post tells us this morning, "Some descendants [of Gypsies] find the term and the stereotypes associated with it offensive." But not 40-year-old Nick Nefedro, who is happy to label himself a Gypsy, and is also suing Montgomery County. read full article . . . .
Ocean City Fortune Teller Predicts ‘Hell' For Gay Customer - New Jersey Newsroom - August 7, 2009
She should have seen it coming. A Los Angeles man on vacation in Ocean City stopped for a Tarot card reading on the Boardwalk. But card reader June Mitchell's dire prediction about her client's hereafter led to a public dust-up, a police investigation and a petition drive, the Press of Atlantic City reports.
read full article . . . .
What Does the Future Hold for the Sale of Jeane Dixon's Possessions? - Washington Post - July 19, 2009
Of course you are dying to see Jeane Dixon's crystal ball first. And here it is. It made the trip to the auction house in someone's lap and then was placed in an illuminated vitrine for safekeeping. It was the celebrated seer's most powerful tool, or prop, if you don't believe in soothsaying, astrology and other hocus-pocus. read full article . . . .
ACLU To Challenge County's Fortunetelling Ban - Gazette.net - July 10, 2009
The American Civil Liberties Union is taking up the case of a man who hopes to open a fortunetelling shop in Bethesda, citing first amendment violations. An ACLU lawyer representing Florida resident Nick Nefedro said a county law that bans all fortunetelling is unconstitutional. read full article . . . .
Psychics See Magic in Michael Jackson's Life - July 10, 2009 - CNN
Jackson's talent was discovered when he was 5 years old, he came to fame as a member of the Jackson 5 and he planned a series of 50 concert dates in London, England, as part of a comeback tour before he died on June 25 at the age of 50. read full article . . . .
Company Behind Irish Psychics Live Sees 22pc Fall In Profits - Independent.ie - June 22, 2009
The company that operates the controversial Irish Psychics Live premium phone lines last year sustained a 22pc drop in pre-tax profits to €1.7m. read full article ....
George Clooney: Channeled dead pig through psychic - Examiner.com - June 21, 2009
Actor George Clooney is still mourning the loss of his potbellied pig Max, who died in 2006, so the "Ocean's Eleven" actor sought the help of a medium to get in touch with his beloved pet. They 48-year-old hottie reportedly told a friend: "The psychic told me Max had a great life with me. He is very happy in spirit and still hangs out with me sometimes." read full article . . . .
St. Pete Fortune Tellers and Psychics Claim City Discriminates - ABC Action News - June 5, 2009
The St. Petersburg City Council was trying to update its ordinances and wound up upsetting local fortune tellers and mystics. The city passed a new fortune telling ordinance, requiring any phrenologist, astrologer, palmist, soothsayer, fortuneteller, character reader, spirit medium, absent treatment healer, or mental healer to obtain a license and go through a background check. read full article . . . .
Certain Art For Times Of Uncertainty - The Prague Post - June 3, 2009
Tarot card readings and cell phone text messages have very little in common. Or didn't, until recently. Among seven artists now part of the "No Reply Necessary" exhibition at the newly opened Galerie Vernon City, is Darina Alster, who seeks "to connect new media with really archaic ones." read full article . . . .
Fortunetellers Have Zzoning Restrictions In Their Future - Chicago Tribune - May 29, 2009
If you want to get paid to read fortunes in Will County, you'll have to open up shop in a commercial district. Before a zoning ordinance mandating that was approved by the County Board last week, those who dealt in the occult could pretty much do it anywhere. But the change came as the county decided to go over its long list of ordinances -- some of which were outdated because they were enacted when the county was mostly rural and didn't take into account such "new age" businesses as tattoo parlors, body piercing studios, dog watchers and, yes, fortunetellers. read full article ....
St. Petersburg Proposes Rigorous Rules For Community Gardens — And Soothsayers - St.Petersburg Times - May 26, 2009
. . . . community gardeners in St. Petersburg are not alone in falling under the yoke of municipal regulation. So are soothsayers. Soothsayers! No, really. Another proposed city ordinance says: "It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the business of a phrenologist, astrologer, palmist, soothsayer, fortune teller, character reader, spirit medium, absent treatment healer, or mental healer, or any occupation of a similar nature for hire in the City without first obtaining a City business tax receipt." read full article ....
Premonitions: Making Money With The Mind - The Huffington Post - May 7, 2009
"If people have the ability to sense the future, why aren't they rich?" This is one of the most frequent questions I've been asked by readers of my book The Power of Premonitions. The fact is, some are very rich, and they attribute their wealth in part to their ability to sense the future. As Bill Gates says, "Sometimes, you have to rely on intuition." Or as Oprah states, "My business skills have come from being guided by my inner self -- my intuition." And as Donald Trump admits, "I've built a multi-billion empire by using my intuition." read full article
Ordinances outlaw drunken elephants, stealing alligators, wrestling bears [and psychics]- Natchez Democrat - April 26, 2009
No pigs allowed within city limits, no roller skating on the street, no Dumpster diving — no drunken elephants? The City of Natchez has many laws that seem somewhat outlandish, but one dating back to 1810 is still on the books, and it all started with an elephant show. read full article . . . .
Most Britons 'Believe in Heaven' - BBC - April 12, 2009
The majority of Britons believe in heaven and life after death, new research suggests. The survey of 2,060 people showed 55% believe in heaven, while 53% believe in life after death and 70% believe in the human soul. It also suggested that nearly four in 10 people, 39%, believe in ghosts and 27% believe in reincarnation. A further 22% believe in astrology or horoscopes and 15% believe in fortune telling or Tarot. read ful article . . . .
Couple Given £4,500 of Taxpayers' Money for 'Psychic Academy' - WalesOnline.com - March 26, 2009
TWO psychics have been given thousands of pounds of taxpayers’ cash to help grieving relatives contact the dead. Paul and Deborah Rees were handed £4,500 through a businesses start-up scheme. read ful article . . . .
Watch it. Fortune telling timepiece - Austrian Times - March 24, 2008
Watch-makers have worked with Indian fortune tellers to design a watch with a bedpan-shaped section that predicts when the s**t is about to his the fan. When dark astral forces are about to strike, say Swiss makers Borgeaud, the bedpan turns brown and doesn't clear until the bad omens have passed. read full article . . . .
Peter Ross: Something Stranger Than Ghostbusters In Our Neighbourhood - Scotland on Sunday - March 22, 2009
CONTRARY to what many people think, Dr Caroline Watt is no Ghostbuster. She will not come round to your haunted single-end and sook up a spook in a trap. She is a cool-headed academic, a senior lecturer at Edinburgh University. The confusion comes because she is based in the Koestler Parapsychology Unit, which since 1985 has been the leading place in Britain for academic study of the paranormal. read full article . . . .
Good As Gold: What The Alchemists Got Right - The Boston Globe - March 15, 2009
THREE HUNDRED YEARS ago, more or less, the last serious alchemists finally gave up on their attempts to create gold from other metals, dropping the curtain on one of the least successful endeavors in the history of human striving. Centuries of work and scholarship had been plowed into alchemical pursuits, and for what? Countless ruined cauldrons, a long trail of empty mystical symbols, and precisely zero ounces of transmuted gold. As a legacy, alchemy ranks above even fantasy baseball as a great human icon of misspent mental energy. read full article . . . .
Advice For The Beginner Psychic - Macleans.ca - March 5, 2009
Beginner psychics are often bombarded by strange and confusing messages, says Roz Shakespeare, the co-founder of a new support group for psychics, mediums and clairvoyants in Vancouver. “Remember the old radios with dials?” she says. “Sometimes you’d be between stations and you’re trying to get your message but it’s too far away or the signal isn’t particularly strong. It’s all garbled.” The support group was set up so people could practise their skills and “for finding like-minded people who understand you when you say, ‘My mother appeared to me in a vision last night.’ ” read full article . . . .
Tindivanam MP Dons Fortune Teller Garb To Get Feedback On His Work - Times of India - March 5, 2009
Kings of yore were known to disguise themselves and mingle with their subjects to understand their problems and get feedback on governance. And taking a leaf out of the royals' book, Tindivanam MP K Dhanraj (PMK) disguised himself as a traditional fortune teller (guduguduppukaran) on Tuesday and visited various villages in his parliamentary constituency. read full article . . . .
People Turning To Temples Amid Economic Recession - Taipei Times - March 3, 2009
A growing number of people are visiting temples to ask the gods for career advice during the economic downturn, but they are donating far less than in previous years, sources at various temples around the nation said on Sunday. A large number of people who have been either laid off or forced to take unpaid leave have turned to the gods to help alleviate their distress, while even those with jobs have visited temples in search of comfort and a sense of security, the sources said. read full article . . . . .
Vision Of The Future Uncertain For Psychics - Phoenix Business Journal - February 28, 2009
The uncertain economy is conjuring a blurry picture for psychics, mediums, tarot card readers and other spiritually based businesses. Scaled-backed consumer spending is resulting in less business and canceled appointments for some of these enterprises, while others are reporting an upswing as more people seek answers about their financial futures. read full article . . . .
Antalya Hopeful Says Djins His Mates - Hurriyet Daliy News - February 19, 2009
A psychic medium in the Mediterranean city of Antalya is running for mayor on the promise to solve traffic problems through the help of djins, which are a type of spirit that has the ability to grant wishes. Ömer Çetin Yavuncu, who also ran for Parliament in the 2007 general elections but lost, now hopes to win the mayor’s race for the resort town in local elections to be held on March 29. read full story . . . .
Occult Fears Away With The Fairies - Chichester Observer - February 18, 2009
A row has broken out over Petersfield's fairy festival after a councillor said he was worried it could promote "occult activities."
Cllor Philip Aiston said he was concerned the town council was backing the event by allowihttp://www.chichester.co.uk/469/Occult-fears-away-with-the.4991137.jpng it to be held on Petersfield Heath. But one of the organisers of the festival, Jill Din, said she was “extremely insulted” by his comments. read full article . . . .
Hialeah May Cut Fortune Tellers' Operating Fee - Miami Herald - February 17, 2009
If you're a fortune teller in Hialeah, you need a permit. No proof required. But, like in many cities around South Florida, there's a fee to operate your fortune telling business. The cost for Hialeah seers: $1,000. That amount soon might be reduced to $250, if the Hialeah Council agrees to the fee reduction at its next meeting Feb. 24. The ordinance unanimously passed first reading Feb. 9. read full article . . . .
Psychics Plan To Bring Recession To An End - ST. Albans & Harpenden Review - February 17, 2009
PSYCHICS are going to attempt what Gordon Brown has been unable to accomplish - plucking Britain from the grasp of the recession. The all-female group, including psychic mentor Amanda Hart of Admirals Way in Colney Heath, will be undertaking the biggest psychic experiment in Britain using positive thinking to drive away the recession. read full article . . . .
Town Still Regulates Psychics - Metrowest Daily News - February 15, 2009
Selectmen Chairman Jason Smith had just one question for Debra Freeman before his board voted to approve her fortune teller's license during the last week of January. "So how much snow are we gong to get tomorrow?" he asked. Freeman indicated she was not a meteorologist. She gets that a lot. read full article . . . .
Defendant Removed From Court After Outburst At Fortune Teller - The Mainichi Daily News - February 9, 2009
A defendant was removed from court during his trial on Monday after an outburst left his victim -- who was appearing in court under the recently-introduced victim participation system -- in tears. The 43-year-old man was standing trial at the Tokyo District Court for assaulting a fortune teller in her 30s on a street in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward last November. read full article. . . .
Vivica's Psychic Friends ... Are Enemies! - TMZ.com - February 3, 2009
Vivica A. Fox is going to war with a bunch of telephone psychics -- and really, they should have seen this coming. The actress is fuming over a commercial that just hit the 'net -- in which the former actress looks into a camera and insists people should blow $2.99-a-minute on a call to the Psychic Friends Network. But that's not why she's pissed -- Viv claims she's mad because the fortune tellers are allegedly "using her unauthorized likeness, footage, voice and photographs as an endorsement of their service." read full article . . . .
OBITUARY: Henry Gordon, 89: Magician, Debunker - The Toronto Star - February 2, 2009
Henry Gordon was a magician and a realist who wasn't afraid to take jabs at UFO believers, ghostbusters, astrologers and faith healers. The long-time Toronto Star columnist and debunker died Jan. 24 at the age of 89. He wrote several books quashing the claims of psychics and illusionists, including the 1987 hit Extrasensory Deception. His many appearances on television included Oprah Winfrey's show in 1988. read full article . . . .
Bible Study Banned From State DES Cafeteria? No Way, Says DES - Phoenix News Times - January 29, 2009
Contrary to a Tuesday report in the Sonoran Alliance blog, a spokesman with the state Department of Economic Security tells New Times that the agency has never prohibited Bible study in its cafeteria. The conservative blog site called on the Alliance Defense Fund and Governor Jan Brewer to look into the problem -- but DES spokeswoman Liz Barker-Alvarez says there is no problem to look into. read full article . . . .
Scamnesty Launched In East Dunbartonshire - Kirkintilloch Heral - January 28, 2009
RESIDENTS plagued by dodgy mail offering free holidays, psychic readings and lottery wins have been offered a lifeline - and that's no scam! Residents are being urged to 'drop in and drop them in it' as part of a new offensive by local Trading Standards officers, who are joining forces with the Office of Fair Trading (OFT). The Scamnesty campaign will run between February 2 and 15, with special collection points for scam mail at locations in Kirkintilloch and Bishopbriggs. read full article . . . .
Ghostly Events Are A Success - The Star (UK) - January 28, 2009
USINESS is booming for Fright Nights, the Sheffield company that lays claim to being Britain's leading ghost hunters and the worlds first ever paranormal events organisation. More than 2,500 people a month are taking part in the range of events Fright Nights runs at more than 170 of what are supposed to be the most haunted venues across the country. read full article . . . .
Bad Omens for Hong Kong - Business Day - January 28, 2009
Hong Kong people are gloomy about the city's economic prospects for the Year of the Ox after Chinese New Year festivities were overshadowed by bad omens. As celebrations to mark the New Year took place across the city of 6.9 million, which slipped into recession at the end of 2008, headlines on Wednesday were grabbed by two seemingly ominous events. First, a "fortune stick'' picked on Tuesday by a senior politician in an annual Taoist ceremony predicting how prosperous the year ahead will be produced the worst possible number - 27. read full article . . . .
Michelle Obama Inauguration Designer-Basher Previously Filed Frivolous Lawsuit and Claimed to Predict 9/11 - Associated Content - January 27, 2009
OH HAIAmnau Eele, credited as the co-founder of the Black Artists Association, has made headlines by criticizing Michelle Obama for not wearing any African-American designers during the inauguration in a report to Women's Wear Daily. This does not mark the first time Eele, a "divination artist" has made headlines with unusual claims. In 2007, Amnau Eele and her brother Clifton Mallery (a/k/a Enjai Omaa Eele), filed a lawsuit claiming that the idea for the NBC show "Heroes" was in fact stolen from a 777-page handwritten novel they had written along with a short film and series of paintings on the same subject. read full article . . .
The Year Of The Ox—Chinese New Year’s Predictions - WSAV3 - January 26, 2009
t’s that time of year—when many countries in Asia and Asian communities worldwide welcome the lunar new year. It’s a time to celebrate and look ahead to the future. In the traditional Chinese astrological calendar this year is designated the Year of the Ox. CNN’s Eunice Yoon visits with a fortune teller to find out what that means. read full article and see video . . . .
The Significance of 60 - DNA India - January 25, 2009
Mumbai: It is India's 60th Republic Day today. On that occasion, we asked some of the city's renowned tarot card readers and numerologists to outline what lies in store for the country in the year ahead. Tarot card reader Sunita Menon says, "In Tarot, the number 6 and 60 represent The Lovers and The Devil. The Lovers are about choices with long-term repercussions, and The Devil is about power and upheavals. World recession will impact India by 30-40% but we will still maintain a fairly decent economy, unlike the US and Europe who will take time to recover. The political scenario will be stormy. It will be a very hard won election with unexpected twists and turns." read full article . . . .
Year Of The Ox Is Looking Very Un-Bullish, Fortune Tellers Say - The Canadian Press - January 24, 2009
HONG KONG — If the global economy fails to recover in 2009, the housing bubble or credit crunch may not be to blame. It could be a lack of fire. Chinese fortune tellers say fire - one of the five elements mystics believe form the basis of the universe - is essential to financial well-being. And fire is nowhere to be found in the mythology of this coming Year of the Ox, the Chinese lunar year that begins Monday. read full article . . . .
Can The Mighty Ox Help Pull Us Out Of This Mire? - WA Today - January 24, 2009
IT'S not often that oxen take centre stage, but 2009 is shaping up to be a big year for the beast of burden. Tomorrow ushers in the Chinese Year of the Ox, and with astrologers — along with everyone else, it seems — predicting a year of financial instability, all of the animal's famed reliability, endurance, hard work, and patience will be required. read full article . . .
Now in Paris: Jackson Pollock and Shamanism - The Huffington Post - January 23, 2009
The "Jackson Pollock and Shamanism" exhibit at the Pinacotheque -- a rather unconventional private museum in Paris -- is startling. One walks downstairs into a red chamber -- a womb of sorts -- where one is met with a black-and-white video of Native Americans in ceremonial dance, next to early works by Jackson Pollock (in dark yellows and black), alongside text that explains that shamanism -- the key to Pollock's work, argues curator Stephen Polcari -- is a world phenomenon, where the shaman leads participants into an underworld, he himself turning into his otherworldly double, an animal. Shaman, we learn, is a Siberian word that means "he who jumps for joy and agitates." read full article . . . .
What Should They Do? - Suburban Chicago News January 23, 2009
But even psychics can't predict which financial investments are sound. Questions about specific investments are difficult to predict, said Kathy Georgen, a Lindenhurst intuitive reader. "A lot of people want to know what to do, what's the future," Georgen said. "I try to lay out the possibilities for them." People are concerned about foreclosures on their homes, retirement and pension plans, Georgen said. Many also worry that their career is going nowhere. read full article . . . .
Photo Coverage: BLITHE SPIRIT Auditions for 'Medium Consultant' at Sardi's - BroadwayWorld.com January 22, 2009
The producers of Blithe Spirit are looking for a real-life psychic or medium to work closely with the cast of the upcoming Broadway show to guarantee that each performance is every bit as genuine as possible. Auditions were held on Thursday, January 22, 2009 at Sardi's (234 West 44th Street), across the street from The Shubert Theatre, where Blithe Spirit will be beginning performances on Thursday, February 26, 2009. The official opening of the show is on Sunday, March 15, 2009. read full article . . . .
Saudi Religious Police Get Tough on Black Magic - Asharq Alawsat January 22, 2009
Riyadh, Asharq Al-Awsat- Sources within the Committee for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice [CPVPV] in Saudi Arabia have revealed to Asharq Al-Awsat that the CPVPV will move to combat magic and those who practice it, and regulate the exercise of legitimate spiritual healing, by instituting a system designed to deal with such practices which are against Islamic Shariaa Law. read full article . . . .
'Osho' Free From Trademarks - DNA India - January 17, 2009
A landmark ruling by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has put an end to a bitter trademark battle that raged for nearly 10 years between two factions of followers of Indian mystic Osho 'Rajneesh' (Chandra Mohan Jain). In the January 13 ruling, the USPTO's Trademark Trial and Appeal Board cancelled a series of trademarks with the word 'Osho' registered by Osho International Foundation (OIF, Zurich). read full article . . . .
Did The Reversal of Satyam to Maytas Spell Its Doom? The Economic Times (Indian Times) - January 17, 2009
These days all heated debates are about the Satyam debacle. After the initial shock, drawing room discussions seem to be verring towards the esoteric. rally – has the reversal of the name Satyam as Maytas reversed the fortunes of the company? That’s the question currently doing the rounds, even as some say Ramalinga Raju had been forewarned not to name his new company Maytas. read full article . . . .
Attention Psychics! Broadway's Blithe Spirit Wants YOU - Broadway.com - January 15, 2009
Psychics wanted: That’s the message from the producers of the forthcoming Broadway revival of Blithe Spirit, who have announced auditions for a real-life psychic or medium to work closely with the cast on making the play’s onstage seance as realistic as possible. In a two-minute audition to be held on January 22 at Sardi’s, would-be Broadway consultants will be asked to conjure the spirit of Noel Coward or otherwise display their psychic abilities. read full article . . . .
The Futrue Is In The Cards - The Eyeopener January 14, 2009
Let the art of Tarot lead you into 2009. But don't expect an itinerary — take Tarot with a grain of salt.Salako Kalfou, Director of the Occult Research Bureau in Toronto, said Tarot readings don't actually determine one's destiny. "A Tarot spread indicates a likely or possible future. To know the future alters it." read full article (the tarot room is mentioned) . . . .
Heavy Coffee Drinkers 'More Likely to Hallucinate' - Star Tribune Minneapolis-St. Paul - January 14, 2009
Heavy coffee drinkers are more likely to have hallucinations or feel "the presence of dead people," according to new research. A UK-based study quizzed 200 students on their caffeine intake and found those with the highest consumption were also more prone to report seeing, or hearing, things that were not there. read full article . . . .
PNG Tries To Halt Sorcery Murders - BBC - January 13, 2009
The authorities in Papua New Guinea have announced plans to toughen laws against sorcery-related murders, after a surge of them during the past year. The chairman of the Constitutional Review and Law Reform Commission said defendants were using accusations of witchcraft as an excuse to kill people. read full article . . . .
Could Happiness Really Be Written In the Stars? - The Daily Mail - January 11, 2009
The world becomes an increasingly depressing place during these late winter months. Each day brings more bad news, from a crumbling property market to growing financial insecurity and turmoil in the Middle East. In such gloomy times, where's a girl to turn for even small crumbs of comfort? The answer, apparently, is towards the growing army of astrologers, psychics and clairvoyants for a peek into what the future might hold. read full article . . . .
Psychics See New Pet Bylaw in City's Future - The Windsor Star - January 10, 2009
This year, Windsor's shores will be visited by an "unusual bird." There will be new pet bylaws and perhaps best of all, the winter will not last much longer. Those are a few of the predictions made by psychic Charlotte Szivak about the city. She's one of the seers who is part of this weekend's psychic expo at the Caboto Club. read full article . . . .
Medium Charged With Fraud Turns Herself In To Police - Sun Sentinel - January 9, 2009
A self-proclaimed medium who authorities say stole $65,000 from five Broward County clients in seach of spiritual cleansing will soon return every cent, her attorney said Friday. Gina Marie Marks, 35, turned herself in to officials on Thursday but left jail later that day after posting $1,000 bail, according to James Lewis Jr., her Fort Lauderdale-based attorney. The Broward Sheriff's Office filed a warrant for Marks' arrest on Dec. 18 after investigators say she defrauded five women from April to October of 2008. read full article . . .
Popular Tarot Card Reader on the Downtown Mall Dies - Charlotteville News 19 - January 7, 2009
A well-known Tarot Card reader and a frequent presence on the Downtown Mall died on Saturday, January 3, at the University of Virginia Medical Center. A celebration of 54-year-old Edgar J. Rowe Jr.'s life will be held at the Tea Bazaar on the Downtown Mall from 5:00 until 8:00 pm. Gwendolyn Hall of the Twisted Branch Tea Bazaar says Rowe would spend time at the tea house six days a week, working on his autobiography. She says he became friends with many of the folks who frequented Twisted Branch. read full article . . . .
Jennifer & Patricia: Psychic Breakups - Extra - January 6, 2009
TV's supernatural stars Jennifer Love Hewitt and Patricia Arquette split with their significant others on the same day -- shocking even some of their close pals. Do these on-air psychics know something we don't? read full article . . . .
Psychics See Uptick In Clients - Glendale New Press - January 6, 2009
While most businesses have seen their profits suffer from the downward economy, some Glendale fortunetellers have noticed a boost in their clientele. Psychic Doreen Lee, 28, has seen a 20% to 25% increase in the number of people who go to her seeking advice and details about their future. But she is unclear whether the boost is linked to the economy or people wanting advice for the new year. read full article . . . .
Grab Those Ouija Boards - New York Press - January 5, 2009
In the interest of authenticity, the creative team behind the upcoming Broadway revival of Blithe Spirit posted a craigslist ad asking for real mediums in an effort to “guarantee that each performance is every bit as genuine as possible.” Their audition will consist of two minutes in which to “conjure the spirit of Noel Coward or to display any psychic abilities.” read full article . . . .
Fortune Telling Business Follows Trend Too - The Korea Times - January 4, 2009
Fluffy questions about love and friendship used to take up a good share of the queries fortune teller Noh Hye-jeong received from his clients, but now, he says it's all about serious business. ``In this kind of economy, people don't want to waste money on visits that aren't absolutely necessary,'' said Noh, the head of Saju Academy, a fortune telling institute in southern Seoul. read full article . . . .
Should Have Read the Stars: Daily Horoscopes Will Return Monday - The Bay City Times - January 4, 2009
All the warning I needed was right there. I would have known it ... if I hadn't stopped running horoscopes in the paper that very day. Astrology was cut as part of a tightening of the paper due to economic reasons. I addressed those changes in a front-page note to readers that day, and followed up with a column about the challenges facing newspapers nationwide. I've heard from advocates for each of the items trimmed from the paper, but horoscopes far and away are the most popular. read full article . . . .
Psychics Kept Busy In Faltering Economy - The Atlanta Journal-Consititution - January 4, 2009
As a psychic, Beth Bennett is used to people asking her questions about love and health. As the recession has worsened, however, an increasing number of her clients are asking her to predict their financial and workplace fortunes, much more so than in the recent past. “I’ve had people afraid of losing their homes to foreclosure and a huge number afraid of losing their jobs,” said Bennett, who works at the Inner Space, a metaphysical center in Sandy Springs. read full article . . . .
Mexican Warlock Predicts US Troops On Border - Associated Press - January 3, 2009
MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico's self-proclaimed "Grand Warlock" says the United States will pull troops out of Iraq in 2009 and send them to the border with Mexico in an attempt to expand its territory. The prediction from Antonio Vazquez comes with a word of warning though: his record of projecting the future is spotty at best. read full article . . . .
Soothsayers Call For A Great 2009 - Lehigh Valley News - January 2, 2009
The crystal balls and tarot cards say those who suffered 2008's financial crunch can expect relief in the new year. And if you think that's good news, just wait until 2010. Psychics and tarot readers shared their insight into the coming 365 days as New Year's Eve turned to New Year's Day 2009. They said the economy and housing market would rebound, and Barack Obama would enjoy early success. That, they say, will make for a prosperous 2010.
read full article . . . .
New York Psychics Predict Good (and bad) for 2009 - New York Daily News - January 1, 2009
When making New Year's resolutions, it's helpful to know what to expect in 2009. For most of us, it is impossible to predict the future, but a few trusted New York psychics have given us their 2009 forecasts. The first question on everyone's mind this year is "when will the economy rebound?" Psychics can't agree on the answer (but neither can economists). Some say the economy will get better in late spring or summer, while others say it won't improve until 2010. read full article . . . .
Tarot Card Reader Likes U's Chance of Victory - Deseret News - January 1, 2009
NEW ORLEANS — Torch lamps and candles were beginning to flicker to life as night fell on Jackson Square. It was the same time of day, in the same place I had met a witch named Brigitte six years earlier. In my first encounter with the dark arts, I sought her to inquire about the futures of John Stockton and Karl Malone. This time I was in the French Quarter to learn the Utes' chances in the Sugar Bowl. Who needs ESPN prognosticators when you've got access to the world beyond? But like a lot of New Orleans, Brigitte was no longer there. read full article . . . .
Psychics Sense Finances Outweigh Romances -- Detroit Free Press - January 1, 2009
When Mary Hamp first decided to meet with a psychic, it was for insight into her impending divorce. But then she lost her job, and her questions changed. "I ask her, 'Do I need to get some more education?' or 'Should I look out of state?' " said Hamp, 45, of Plymouth, who has been out of work in sales for more than two months. For her, it's sort of like therapy, but without the touchy-feely "how does that make you feel?" aspect. read full article . . . .
Local Tarot Card Reader Jody Blackburn Makes Predictions For Upcoming Year - The Brownsville Herald - Dec. 31, 2008
Mayor Pat M. Ahumada Jr.'s check scandal involves "betrayal," according to Tarot card reader Jody Blackburn. Blackburn made his yearly forecast on Tuesday within his dimly lit studio on West Price Road, where he dispensed predictions thoughtfully, carefully choosing his words. "The six of swords is there with the ten of swords," Blackburn said. Some take his predictions with a grain of salt. For others, he provides solid predictions, good or bad. Take them or leave them. As he predicted for last year, the Democratic Party took hold of the White House and Hillary Clinton will be in the new administration. read full article . . . .
Psychic To Aid In Search For Missing Woman - News 10 Now - December 31, 2008
WATERTOWN, N.Y. -- The Watertown Police Department is looking for new ways to aid in the search for a missing woman, even accepting some offered help from a psychic. Watertown Police tell us a local Jefferson County psychic has offered to see what she can do in the efforts to find Annette Vazquez who disappeared December 8th from the city. Police say the psychic is out of town at the moment, but when she gets back to the area, they'll work with her and take another look at information she's already provided. read full article . . . .
'What Does 2009 Hold?', Mumbaikars Ask Astrologers - Times of India - December 31, 2008
In a shift from usual questions on health and love, the city's numerologists and astrologers are now being asked to predict events like terror attacks and global meltdowns. The year 2008 has not been an easy one for Mumbaikars, who've been buffeted by the raging storms of the global economic meltdown, political violence and terror strikes. While many are praying for a better and brighter 2009, an increasing number of Mumbaikars are taking a more proactive stance, by consulting numerologists, tarot card readers, palmists and astrologers in the hope of gaining some insight into the next year. read full article . . . .
Psychic Predictions for Tech in 2009 - PC World - December 31, 2008
Wonder what the tech world has in store for us in 2009? For the fun of it we asked bona fide psychics to look into their crystal ball. Countless people are trying to predict what 2009 could hold for the world of technology. Of course, it's all just guesswork -- these pundits aren't working with a crystal ball. So we decided to find someone who was. read full article . . . .
2009 --Through A Local's Crystal Ball - York Daily Record - December 31, 2008
From the meltdown of the world's stock markets to the election of Barack Obama, the news of 2008 was hardly predictable. On Tuesday, Pamela Knouse, tarot master with West of the Moon in West Manchester Township, took a look into the future and offered her predictions on what to expect in 2009. Obama - Knouse said Obama's inauguration will be a "sea of tears" for those who will watch the event across the country, if not across the world. And the puppy Obama famously promised his daughters will be either a poodle or a goldendoodle, which is a golden retriever-poodle mix, Knouse said. read full article . . . .
BANGKOK GOVERNOR ELECTION - Yuranan Follows Instructions From Fortune Teller - The Nation - December 31, 2008
Pheu Thai Party's gubernatorial contender, Yuranan Pamornmontri, is going to take a break from meeting voters over the New Year celebrations and get back on the road on Friday. Yuranan said he had decided to put off meeting and greeting voters because a fortune-teller had warned him that he would only be lucky after his birthday, which falls on January 2. read full article . . . .
Peering Into the Crystal Ball - Moosejaw Times - December 31, 2008
According to a psychic reading done for the city of Moose Jaw, 2009 is going to bring energy, sacrifice and opportunity.
Ianna, a local psychic, was able to make her predictions with the help of tarot cards, astrology and her own intuition. After discovering Moose Jaw’s birthday was Nov. 20, 1903, she said Moose Jaw’s behaviour makes more sense. Ianna said Moose Jaw represents the sign of the Scorpio. Scorpios are known for their intensity, determination and willpower. It is also known as a “thick sign.” read full article . . . .
ManyTurn To Psychics For Economic Answers - News 10 Now - December 30, 2008
SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Psychic Debra Crossman has been giving people insight into the future for decades. She says her list of clients, like that of many psychics across the country, is growing. "The holiday time is a very slow time and this year has been steady. I feel that it's because everybody's so much more nervous about what's coming, what is going to happen in their lives, so this is yet another way to have some assurance," said Crossman. A number of businesses like New Process Gear and Syracuse China have had recent layoffs. Crossman says a lot of her clients now are especially concerned with job security. read full article . . . .
What's In Line for '09 - Winnipeg Sun - December 30, 2008
The year 2009 is looking fine for Stephen Harper, the Blue Bombers and the North American economy -- but not so hot for Sam Katz and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, says local psychic Elbera. The St. Vital-based medium flipped her tarot cards for the Winnipeg Sun's benefit yesterday and came up with a few predictions for the coming year. read full article . . .
It's Confirmed, There's Trouble Brewing - Thai Takes - The Star - December 27, 2008
A celebrity fortune teller in a hurry to go places may have found fame, but at a price. Lately, Saranrat “Lydia” Wisutthithada, the Thai R&B singer with a sultry face, has been in distress because the public has become fascinated with her stomach. “Since last month, whenever I leave home, people look at my stomach, not my face, and asked if I am pregnant or whether I have had an abortion,” a weeping Lydia said on national television early this month. read full article . . . .
Area Psychics Share Vision For America - Colorado Springs Gazette - December 26, 2008
The world economy is unraveling. America is in the crosshairs of terrorist organizations. People are losing their jobs right and left. Sure would be nice to see how things turn out. With all the challenges facing the world, radio and TV pundits have been in overdrive, doing their best to predict what might happen in 2009. But there's another group making predictions: psychics. read full article . . .
Poor Economy A Boon For Psychics - CNN - December 26, 2008
Psychics and astrologers say business is booming thanks to the struggling economy. Sandra Endo reports. see video report . .
Fortune Tellers Also Feel Economic Hardship - The Korea Times - December 25, 2008
Every year around Christmas, Kim Yong-sang, a salaried worker, visits a fortuneteller. At noon Monday when his other colleagues were hurrying toward restaurants for lunch, he quietly broke away from the crowd. Roads were slippery due to heavy overnight snowfall. But his destination in Songpa-gu, southern Seoul, was already crowded with those who eagerly wanted to see their future for 20,000 won ($15). read full article . . . .
The Science Behind Psychic Phenomena - Time Magazine - December 24, 2008
In her new book The ESP Enigma: The Scientific Case for Psychic Phenomena, former Harvard professor Diane Hennacy combines philosophy, physics, and empirical data to examine supernatural traits like telepathy (the ability to access someone else's consciousness), psychokinesis (the ability to use one's consciousness to affect external objects), clairvoyance (the ability to broaden one's consciousness to remote time and space) and precognition (the ability to see into the future). She spoke to TIME about Abraham Lincoln's eerie dreams, Einstein's theories of time-travel and the idea that anybody can be a psychic. read full article . . . .
Crystal Ball Economics - The Toronto Star - December 23, 2008
Business is booming, say GTA astrologers and psychics, as hard times and a shaky economy have many wondering what 2009 has in store. It was shortly after the credit crunch hit that Toronto clairvoyant Deborah Levin started getting calls from the most unlikely places. "All of a sudden I'm hearing from business professionals calling on their private office lines or on their cellphones in the hall whispering," says Levin, who has been a professional psychic consultant for more than 15 years. "These are people who, in the past, were usually skeptical and not really comfortable consulting a psychic." read full article . . . .
Russia Licenses Faith Healers - Associated Press - December 21, 2008
MOSCOW (AP) — Mikhail Fadkin claims he can cure a long list of disorders — pancreatitis, bronchitis, digestive problems, even infertility — by using his hands to manipulate what he describes as a person's "bio-energy field." Many laugh at such ideas and might call him a quack. But the 63-year-old healer, who practices out of an office in a Moscow suburb, holds a license from the Russian government. For the past two years, the Federal Health Service has been issuing licenses to practitioners of what it calls "traditional medicine," meaning anything from the use of herbal treatments to the manipulation of "auras." His claims buttressed by officialdom, Fadkin charges patients 3,500 rubles ($150) per session. read full article . . .
No First Amendment Right For Fortune Teller - US News & World Report - December 17, 2008
Another entry into the case file of frivolous local regulations on entrepreneurs: Nick Nefedro, previously of Key West, Fla., said county officials violated his First Amendment rights to free speech and discriminated against his Roma, or Gypsy, culture when they refused to give him a business license to open a foretune-telling shop in Bethesda. Montgomery code dating back to the early 1950s prohibits collecting cash for predicting the future.... ...Clifford Royalty, an attorney for Montgomery County, told The Examiner the court upheld the law and he expected a judge to return a signed copy of his written order this week. read full article . . . .
Psychic Proseuted For Fiddling Benefits - Telegraph.co.uk - December 12, 2008
A psychic who gave readings to customers over a premium-rate phone line has been prosecuted for fiddling his benefits. Richard Jackson, 43, a clairvoyant and medium, was paid £37,000 over three years for giving the readings to customers from his flat in Whitefield, near Bury, greater Manchester. At the same time, he was claiming £5,000 in state handouts. read full article . . . .
We Should Have Seen It Coming, Psychic Say - International Online - December 3, 2008
Bangkok - The sight of planes landing again at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport may have brought some relief to thousands of stranded tourists, but there is little else to cheer about in the Land of Smiles, astrologers say.
read full article . . . .
Samart Foresees Opportunity - The Bangkok Post - December 2, 2008
Samart Multimedia Co, a business unit of Samart Corporation, has opened a fortune-telling outlet to benefit from bright prospects for horoscopes at a time of global economic uncertainty. The digital content arm forecasts that next year, as consumers grow increasingly anxious about their future, its horoscope services will generate almost 40% of expected total earnings of 840 million baht. read full article . . . .
Psychic Businesses Booming Amid Economic Downturn - CBS - December 1, 2008
NEW YORK (CBS) — With a lot of people cutting back in this tough economy, more and more people are looking to psychics for answers. Fahrusha is a psychic in the East Village and her clients' questions have turned from love and family to money and jobs. "As of September I've been getting many, many more questions: 'Will I keep my job?' And in the last three or four weeks people have been coming who have in fact lost their jobs." read full article . . . .
I Sold My Stocks (The Psychic Said I Should) - The Globe and Mail - December 1, 2008
It was late October, the markets were more than a little shaky and Ray Pambrun was pondering his financial future. How should he invest? Which way would the market turn? Should he wait to buy a house? While most Canadians were dialling up their financial advisers, Mr. Pambrun did what more and more disillusioned investors are doing: He consulted his psychic. Her advice? Get out of the stock market; it's only going to get worse. read full article . . . .
Japanese Turn To FortuneTeller In Tough Times - Reuters - December 1, 2008
TOKYO (Reuters Life!) - An Internet firm specializing in crystal balls, tarot readings, I-ching and horoscopes is raking in business as Japanese seek reassurance about the future in the midst of a global financial crisis. Fears of job cuts and an economy in meltdown have boosted business at Zappallas Inc, which operates Japan's largest network of fortune-telling websites, including "Your Future in Three Months" and "Certain Fate." read full article . . . .
Saskatoon Psychics Offer Economic Advice - The Star Phoenix - November 28, 2008
In these times of economic uncertainty and bear markets, many of Saskatoon's professional psychics have taken on an unlikely role. They've become financial consultants. Paulina, a self-proclaimed fifth-generation psychic and the woman behind Psychic Readings by Paulina, says more and more clients are coming to her with questions pertaining to their pocketbooks. She says people are asking about everything from RRSPs to pension funds and real estate investments. read full article . . . .
Future Scope - Indian Express.com - November 28, 2008
More and more people are returning to malls and multiplexes. And it's not shopping, but the occult that's compelling Puneites this time around The recession might explain a decrease in footfalls in the malls but there are other enticements that compel people to do the rounds of these places of activity and amusement. The future is indeed here and prophecy is pulling the crowd, as fortunetellers are making their presence felt. Be it a restaurant like Mirchi Kola, a multiplex such as Mariplex (Big Cinemas), Wonder Funky, a play land for kids; astrologers arrest attention like nothing else. read full article . . .
Business Good For Psychics - KNWA.Fox29 - November 26, 2008
Its no surprise to see people turning to the Spiritual world during tough economic times, but instead of going to church, some are looking for answers at the local psychic. Several psychics in our area say business has been great lately. Local psychic Maryanne Hooker says the collapsing economy is turning people to spirituality. see video newsclip . . . .
Psychics Cashing in During Troubled Economy - KTLA - November 25, 2008
LOS ANGELES -- Psychics, those in the business of reading minds, hands and even cards claim they see, what we can't. In these tough economic times, people are turning to spiritual advisors more than ever. "I guess when people get into the negative headspace they are looking for anything to give them hope," says Damien Vickers who says he believes in psychics. read full article . . . .
New Investment Guru: The Local Psychic - The International Herald Tribune - November 23, 2008
On a good day last summer, Thomas Taccetta, a stock trader, might have checked his financial charts before plotting his investments. Today, he is likely to check in with his psychic as well. "I'll play the broadest index, the S.&P. 500," Taccetta said, "and if she tells me she is getting a negative view, I will sell." read full article . . . .
PSYCHIC IN THE TEETH ; Mystic Banned for Dodgy Ads - iStock Analyst - November 21, 2008
Claivoyant Sister Charlotte never saw it coming... But her advert claiming she could cure everything from witchcraft to depression was banned - because she could not prove it. The 33-year-old fortune teller said she was able to solve problems in love, marriage, business, exams and even immigration. She even had a leaflet promoting her "100 per cent success rate". read full article . . . .
Citizens Plan Protest of 'Occultic' Events at Renaissance Theatre - Mansfield Newsjournal - November 13, 2008
MANSFIELD — A group of concerned Christians will hold a “Gospel Truth” demonstration protesting the presence of psychic readers tonight and the featured appearance Nov. 23 of a medium/clairvoyant. The peaceful protest is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m., just prior to the start of “Hormonal Imbalance: A Mood Swinging Musical Revue.”Vendors scheduled to be in the Renaissance lobby for tonight’s event plan to donate 20 percent of their sales to the Pat Kracker Breast Cancer Foundation. They will include psychic readers, as well as other businesses offering “girls night out” type items such as chair massages, jewelry, hats, cosmetics and books. read full article . . . .
Asia's Richest Woman Gave Away Fortune In Return for 'Eternal Life" - The Economic Times - November 12, 2008
Hong Kong - Asia's richest woman allegedly gave away her multi-billion-US-dollar fortune to a Hong Kong feng shui master in return for a promise of eternal life, a news report said on Tuesday. Nina Wang, who died of cancer last year at age 69, signed over her vast fortune to previously unknown feng shui master Tony Chan as a result of the promise, a lawyer quoted by the South China Morning Post said. read full article . . . .
Seeing But Not Believing: The Photography of Susan Hiller - The Independent - November 10, 2008
The poster campaign for atheism, promised in the new year, seems mild-mannered enough. "There's probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life": that's the slogan to run on buses in London and perhaps elsewhere. Its off-hand tone may or may not be effective – to me it seems rather well judged. At any rate, it puts the issue of belief out on the street. These questions should be public questions. read full article . . . .
South Korean Fortunetellers Gather For Peek at Tomorrow - Voice of America - November 7, 2008
A major power transition is under way in the United States, and the global economy is reeling from the ongoing financial crisis. So who knows what the future will bring? Perhaps South Korea's fortunetellers do. They held a conference this week in Seoul where, as VOA's Kurt Achin reports, many take traditional means of divining the future quite seriously. read full article . . .
In Troubling Economic Times, Consumers Flock to Online Psychics - Wired - November 7, 2008
While it doesn't take a psychic to see that tough times lay ahead for the economy, online practitioners of the divination arts say they're seeing a marked sift in the questions posed by their clientele, with anxious consumers increasingly asking what's in store for them financially in the months ahead. Believers who normally seek psychics for advice on a cheating spouse are now asking whether a pink slip is in their future, and internet psychics across the board saw a spike in traffic in the days following the initial market crash. read full article . . . .
"Occult" Classes Banned From London Colney - Salbans Review - November 6, 2008
A THERAPIST has been banned from holding classes at the All Saints Pastoral Centre near London Colney because local Catholics feared that she was indulging in supernatural occult practices. Amanda Hart, who lives in Colney Heath and describes her classes as "hypnotherapy and a variety of philosophy-based techniques", said: "The staff and the director at the centre have no problems with what I do, but other people complained that it was related to cults and witchcraft, which is a total misunderstanding. read full article . . . .
Seoul to Host World Fortunetelling Conference - Digital Chosuibo (English Edition) - November 4, 2008
Some 300 fortunetellers and prophets from over 10 countries over the world will gather in Seoul and discuss the future of Korea and its president Lee Myung-bak. The association of Korean fortunetellers said Monday that the international conference of world’s fortunetellers will be held on Friday this week. This international event, which held its first meeting in Seoul in 1984, will meet for the 20th time already this year, although, having hosted the conference in 1984, 1988 and 1996, this is the first time in 12 years Korea has hosted the event. read full article . . . .
Financial forecast: What do psychics predict? - CTV - November 1, 2008
As the global economy spirals downward and fears of a recession abound, some Canadians are leaning increasingly on otherworldly advisers to get them through the hard times. Psychics say that since the financial crisis hit in September, their clients have been asking them more and more questions about their financial futures. read full article . . .
Teenager Who Conned Ex-President Apologizes - The China Daily - October 30, 2008
TAIPEI, Taiwan -- A 16-year-old boy who duped Taiwan’s former president Chen Shui-bian by posing as a fortune teller apologized yesterday. The teenager, identified only by his family name Huang, was arrested last week on forgery charges after appearing on television to boast about his scam targeting Chen. He was later released by a juvenile court judge pending a further investigation into the charges against him. read full article . . . .
Taiwan Nabs Teen Conman Who Targeted Ex-President - AFP - October 25, 2008
TAIPEI (AFP) — A 16-year-old boy who duped Taiwan's former president Chen Shui-bian by posing as a fortune-teller has been arrested on forgery charges, a prosecutor said on Saturday. The teenager, identified only by his family name Huang, was arrested on forgery charges late on Friday after appearing on television to boast about his scam targeting Chen, the United Daily News said. The Criminal Investigation Bureau confirmed the arrest without giving details. read full article . . . .
'Spy' Used Voodoo To Shield General From Taliban, Court Hears - Telegraph.co.uk - October 24, 2008
British Army translator accused of spying for Iran was a voodoo priest who used black magic to protect the commander of NATO forces in Afghanistan from the Taliban, a court heard. Iranian-born Daniel James, 45, who was the personal interpreter to General David Richards, told the Old Bailey that he used pictures, dust, candles and seashells to cast spells protect his boss. He also said he did Tarot card readings for other personnel at the Allied HQ in Kabul to predict the future. read full article . . .
Chen Met with Fortuneteller, Denies It Was Teen Imposter - The China Post October 23, 2008
TAIPEI, Taiwan –– Former President Chen Shui-bian’s office yesterday confirmed that he had met with a fortuneteller, but denied that he had his fate foretold by what the media was alleging to be just a 16-year-old impostor. Chen did visit the office of “Mr. Huang” to attend a prayer session presided over by three Tibetan monks, a statement from the ex-president’s office said. read full article . . . .
PM Appreciates Fortune-Teller's Warning Before Joining ASEM - Thaiindian News - October 24, 2008
Prime Minister and Defense Minister Somchai Wongsawat urges all Thai citizens to compromise and be patient while thanking a fortune-teller for his recent forecast. Today’s morning (October 23rd), Mr.Somchai, as prime minister and representative of Thailand, has traveled to Beijing, China, on Flight TG614 for his attendance at the 7th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM). During his brief interview before departing, he shows his appreciation in regards to the recent warning from a fortune-teller, which has been forecasted that, if the premier leaves Thailand at this time, he will not be able to return to the country. However, he explains that he has to prioritize his duties and to remain rational since his heed to such prediction would largely affect the country. read full article . . . .
Betting On Psychics To Predict The Futures - Staten Island Advance
October 13, 2008
More of psychic Adele Basil's customers are asking for a glimpse into their financial future. There are the people who have lost jobs and others who are losing homes. Many are just struggling to make ends meet in the midst of rising gas and food prices, Ms. Basil said of the customers who have come into her Port Richmond shop, Mystikal Wonders, over the last year. read full article . . . .
Psychics See Battle Ahead In Row Over Phone Curbs - Independent.ie October 12, 2008
Ireland - Next time you have your fortune told over the phone, get out your stopwatch -- your call could be cut off after as little as 20 minutes. Under the latest clampdown on tarot lines by the premium rate phone watchdog Regtel, any calls that cost more than €60 must be cut off by the service provider. Callers must also be alerted when the cost of their phone-call hits €30, and asked if they want to continue. read full article . . . .
MP Saera Khan (Labour Party): Rang Fortune-Ttellers for Several Hundred Thousand Kroner - Aftenbladet (Norway) October 10, 2008
Rang fortune-tellers 793 times within nine months. "She needs some peace now," says the parliamentary leader for the Labour Party, Hill-Marta Solberg. VG writes that Saera Khan (Labour) in the second, third and fourth quarter last year, made a total of 793 calls to numbers that NetCom classifies as “Special no.El-satelite destination”. The length of the calls for these nine months was 133 hours in total. Two fortune-tellers tell the newspaper that they had to stop Khan from ringing the fortune-telling phone. read full article . . . .
Judge: Rule Too Vague: Fortunetelling Ban Tossed -2theadvocate.com October 8, 2008
A Livingston Parish Council ordinance outlawing fortunetelling and soothsaying is unconstitutional, a federal judge ruled Tuesday. A Wiccan minister, Cliff Eakin, sued the parish over the ordinance, asserting inspiration from the divine transmitted by a Wiccan minister should be treated legally the same way as a message from God transmitted to a congregation by a Christian minister. “I would highly recommend that the council not appeal it,” Blayne Honeycutt, the council’s attorney, said of Tuesday’s ruling. Previously, Honeycutt had recommended to the council that it repeal the ordinance, which it enacted last year. Honeycutt had told council members the parish had little chance of successfully defending against the suit. read full article . . . .
The Unfortunate Fortune-Tellers of the City - Express Buzz India October 2, 2008
Their forefathers were ace archers.Their ancestors actually trained the erstwhile kings of the Ettayapuram samsthanam in hunting. Unfortunately, the present generation is hunting for ways to make both ends meet. Hunting went out of vogue long ago, so they switched over to fortune-telling and soothsaying. Take a drive through the city’s streets and you cannot miss the ‘parrot astrologers’ parked on the pavements. read full article . . . .
Psychics: Stars not aligned for Palin - Politico.com October 2, 2008
Well-known psychic Elizabeth Joyce has doubts there will be an election this November. Her instincts tell her that, come next week, there might be “rioting in the streets and martial law” and that President Bush will henceforth carry out his term indefinitely. But that’s next week. Tonight, there’s a vice presidential debate. And Joyce’s predicted outcome runs closer to conventional wisdom on the much-anticipated matchup between Sarah Palin and Joe Biden. She believes that the debate will ultimately go a long way in determining the next president, and that Biden will take the day so long as he doesn’t push her too much. read full article . . . .
Concerns Foreseen for Psychic Fair at Empire State Plaza - Daily Gazette October 1, 2008
ALBANY — A crystal ball might have come in handy for state officials hosting a psychic fair at the Empire State Plaza — maybe they would have seen the criticism coming. “There is certainly a Satanic element to psychic fairs and to the occult and to new age religion,” said Rev. Jason McGuire, legislative director of New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms. read full article . . . .
Gipsy Predicted Our £4m Lotto Snackpot - The Sun September 24, 2008
Snack bar owners Gary and Ann Henry scooped £4.5million on the Lotto — days after a gipsy they gave a free egg sarnie to predicted the win. The astonished couple told yesterday how the mystery woman read Ann’s fortune as she sheltered from the rain in their humble caff. read full article . . . .
