Jesus the Magician? Archaeological Find Unlikely As Earliest Reference to Jesus Christ

Underwater find

A bowl newly discovered in Alexandria, Egypt, and dated to the period from the late second century BCE to the early first century CE bears an engraving that may be the world's earliest known reference to Jesus Christ. The engraving reads dia chrstou ogoistais, translated by the excavation team as "through Christ the magician." According to French marine archaeologist Franck Goddio, co-founder of the Oxford Center of Maritime Archaeology, and Egyptologist David Fabre, the phrase could very well be a reference to Jesus Christ, since he was one known as a primary exponent of white magic.

Magician

The team found the bowl during their underwater excavation of the ancient harbor of Alexandria. They speculate that a first-century magus may have used the bowl to tell fortunes. They note that the bowl is very similar to one depicted on two early Egyptian statuettes that are thought to show a soothsaying ritual. Ancient soothsaying manuals describe a technique in which the fortune teller poured oil into water and then entered an ecstatic state while studying the whirling mix. In the hallucinatory state, the fortune-teller hoped to meet mystical beings that could field questions about the future. The inscription, the archaeologists theorize, may have served to legitimize the soothsaying by invoking the name of Christ, acknowledged to be a wonder-worker.

How weighty is the evidence?

o Is it "Christ" or "Good"? - The archaeologists may have mistaken one Greek word for another in their interpretation. A glance at the photograph of the cup reveals a letter between the rho ("P") and the sigma ("C"). The letter, though poorly formed, seems unmistakably the letter eta ("H"). If this identification is correct, then the lexical form of the Greek word inscribed is not christos, but chrestos, meaning "kind, loving, good, merciful."

The prepositional phrase, then, probably indicates that the bowl was a gift, given "through kindness" from some benefactor. It seems obvious that chrestou is much more likely than christou for the engraved word. Rather than referring to the power of Christ, the word chrestou might be a reference to the person who gave the cup as a gift-as we might write on a gift "from Donald with best wishes." This explanation seems as plausible as its alternative is unlikely.

o References to christos too vague to reach certainty - Yet even if christou is the correct word, we are still far from reaching certainty that it is a reference to Jesus Christ. We must remember that the word christos was not a personal name of Jesus but a title, the Greek translation of the Hebrew word mashiach ("Messiah, anointed one"). Like its Hebrew counterpart, this Greek term could apply to any number of people. It occurs in the Hebrew Scriptures more than 60 times, designating priests, prophets, and kings, as well as the anticipated Messiah. It even describes the pagan ruler Cyrus of Persia (Isa. 45:1, LXX). Calling someone christos does not necessarily identify that person with Jesus. Even the Greek Scriptures warn that many would claim that title (Mark 13:21-22).

o The meaning of goistais - In Theological Dictionary of New Testament, Gerhard Delling defines go-es, the lexical form behind goistais, as "imposter, charlatan, one who performs magic through formulae." Its only New Testament occurrence is in 2 Timothy 3:13: "...evil men and imposters will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived." Delling says that among ancient people, those who believed in demon possession tended to hold the gos in high respect, while the educated people tended to look down on such a person. (See also the entry for go-es in the Liddell-Scott-Jones lexicon, which defines it as "sorcerer, wizard" and secondarily as "juggler, cheat.")

If this term goistais, therefore, were a reference to Jesus Christ, it would be most inappropriate. Jesus did not perform miracles through such formulae as abracadabra, alacazam, or presto. When He did speak, he gave simple commands, such as "Be healed!" or "Rise and walk!" Even the words ephphatha and talitha koum of Mark 5:41 and 7:34, respectively, are merely "Be opened!" and "Little girl, I say to you, get up!", spoken in Aramaic, Jesus' native tongue. Rather than using formulae, Jesus constantly varied the means by which he healed people-sometimes touching (e.g., Mark 1:31), or saying a few words (e.g., Mark 2:11), or healing without touch (e.g., Matthew 12:13) or even without being present (e.g., Mark 8:13). Some scholars believe it likely that He varied His healing procedures for the very purpose of avoiding magical associations.

The archaeologists have apparently forced their translation, as if goistais is genitive singular, like chrestou, and functions in the phrase as an appositive. The word goistais, however, is dative plural, making their suggested translation impossible. The phrase dia chrestou goistais probably means "[Given] through kindness for the magicians."

o The dating is probably too early - At the time of Jesus, tens of centuries before the printing press, and two millennia before the digital age with its instant communication, events in one part of the empire often had little impact beyond the immediate vicinity. For the ripple effect of the ministry of Jesus to reach Alexandria would take some years, and at first would be felt only in Christian and then Jewish circles. For it to sweep across to pagans like the owner of the soothsayer's bowl would take even longer. And not only would the magician have to know of the miraculous power, but enough time would have to elapse for to be convince him or her that customers would also be aware of Jesus.

Yet the latest date assigned for the bowl is the early first century. Given that the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ happened no earlier than 30 CE, that only allows 20 years before we reach mid-century. One hundred years or even more might be needed for the ripple to flood the pagan consciousness of Alexandria.

What can we conclude?

If the engraving did refer to Jesus Christ, it would constitute an extrabiblical confirmation that Jesus was a miracle-worker. This is similar to the impact of what is now known as the Paris Magical Papyrus, dated to about 300 CE. It describes an elaborate exorcism ritual, which begins, "I adjure you by the god of the Hebrews," and then lists a number of mystical names, of which Jesu is the first. The adjuration continues with numerous references to biblical events and persons, some of which are garbled. The point for New Testament studies is the confirmation that in Egypt about 150 years after the resurrection, Jesus was known as a successful exorcist and called "the god of the Hebrews." This latest discovery would make a similar argument from evidence much, much earlier.

Such evidence opposes against claims skeptics have made for generations that Jesus' miracles all have rationalistic explanations. The eyewitnesses found sufficient proof in Jesus' works to discern the all-powerful hand of God. In the words of the Apostle Peter, Jesus "went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with Him" (Acts 10:38). Even if legitimate, this evidence would not constitute proof that Jesus was a magician, despite the claims of such books as Jesus the Magician: Charlatan or Son of God? by Morton Smith, published in 1978. (See Barry Crawford's largely negative review, published in the Journal of the American Academy of Religion [10/26/1978].)

The problem, however, is that the evidence is too early and that it is too ambiguous to be credible. It seems to be another example of archaeologists attempting to grab headlines be placing their latest discovery in the same sentence with the words "Jesus Christ." Such unwarranted coupling often contributes to unjustified conclusions about Jesus among the ignorant and the credulous.

Want to Go Deeper?

Recommended for purchase

Howard Clark Kee. What can we know about Jesus? Cambridge, 1990. - Kee explores both the biblical accounts of Jesus' life and works and the extrabiblical material touching on this. Extrabiblical references to Christ include the writings of non-orthodox Christians, pagan authors, and Jews. Kee analyzes all the relevant material to determine what precisely can be deduced about Jesus from these diverse accounts, written by both friend and foe.

Craig L. Blomberg. The Historical Reliability of the Gospels. 2nd ed. Inter-Varsity, 2008. - Blomberg reveals the faulty analysis and presuppositions that have led to mistaken conclusions about the Gospels, providing scholarly criteria for judging these books and biblical answers to our hard questions. Readers will find that over the past twenty years, the case for the historical trustworthiness of the Gospels has grown vastly stronger.

C. K. Barrett. The New Testament Background. HarperOne, 1989. Contains a discussion of the Paris Magical Papyrus along with its text in English translation (pp. 34ff). Also contains a wealth of other material relevant to New Testament studies.

Recommended for online reading

Details about the Paris Magical Papyrus in G. A. Deissmann, Light from the Ancient East. Hodder & Stoughton, 1910. pp. 254ff.

Gary R. Habermas, "The Late Twentieth-Century Resurgence of
Naturalistic Responses to Jesus' Resurrection." Trinity Journal, 22 NS (2001):179-196.

Larry W. Hurtado, Lord Jesus Christ. Eerdmans, 2005, pp. 358-364. - A short but helpful discussion of the title "Christ" ("Messiah").

You may want to study the earliest charge that Jesus was a magician, leveled by the anti-Christian debater Celsus in the third century. The church father Origen ably defended the orthodox view by pointing out that in contrast to magicians, Jesus' miracles all had a moral purpose. See Origen, Against Celsus, book 1, chapter 68. See also Justin Martyr's second-century anticipation of this argument in his First Apology, chapter 30.

If you are curious about Morton's Smith's book, take a look at the exchange Professor Smith had with Frank Kermode over the latter's review of Smith's book in the New York Review of Books. This exchange includes a summary of Smith's main points and the essentials of Kermode's critique. Be sure to read all four essays, the first two published on Dec. 21, 1978, and the second on Feb. 8, 1979. Unfortunately, Kermode's original review, "The Quest for the Magical Jesus," is unavailable without a subscription to the Review. Also available online is a brief review of Smith's book by Terrance Callan from the Library Journal (June 15, 1978).

Jesus the Magician? Archaeological Find Unlikely As Earliest Reference to Jesus Christ

Copyright ©2008 Steve Singleton

Steve Singleton has written and edited several books and numerous articles. He has been an editor, reporter, and public relations consultant. He has taught college-level Greek, Bible, biblical archaeology, and religious studies courses and has taught seminars in 11 U. S. states and the Caribbean.

Go to his DeeperStudy.com for Bible study resources, no matter what your level of expertise. Explore "The Shallows," plumb "The Depths," or use the well-organized "Study Links" for original sources in English translation. Check out the DeeperStudy Bookstore for great e-books, free books, and great discounts.

Crazy Hat Party

If you are looking for a party that is creative and will tickle your funny bones then consider having a crazy hat party. This theme is perfect for birthday parties, retirement parties, going away parties or coming home parties.

Create invitations in the shape of a hat. Write on the invitations for guests to wear the craziest, silliest, funniest hats they can find. You'll need plenty of plastic hats for decorations. Turn plastic hats with a flat top over to use as bowls for chips and appetizers. Look for hats that hold cans of soda on the top and have a straw attached for an easy way to enjoy your beverage. Raid party supply stores or find online shops that specialize in Hats. Provide different kinds of beverages in cans and one hat per guest.

Hat

If you have a hard time finding a tablecloth covered in hats make one on your own. Take a plain white tablecloth and draw pictures of different hats onto it. You can cut the top out of a hat or use a hat that already has a hole in the top to create an interesting centerpiece.

Place a vase filled with flowers through the hole in the top of the hat and place it in the middle of the tables. After all of the guests have arrived at the party you can hold a hat contest.

Guests can vote as to who has the funniest hat, the biggest hat or the weirdest hat. The winners can receive a prize. Buy hats that can be decorated for a kid's party; sun visors or plain baseball caps are a good option. Allow children to use markers and stickers to create unique hats they can be proud of. The hats the children make can be taken home as favors for the party.

Crazy Hat Party

We found silly hats at Bandanas And Hats. A huge selection from traditionalhat with different colors to unique new creative hats.

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino is the internet's leading authority on selecting the best possible party supplies, using proper etiquette and manners while also teaching organizational skills and fun facts. Free Party Games to help complete your event.

5 Keys to Understanding Tarot Card Meanings

Understanding the meaning of Tarot cards can often seem like a very difficult task for many among us. Each picture is different and contains many elements. There is a plethora of associations and correspondences within the images of these 78 beautiful cards which combine together towards forming the meaning of Tarot cards. In short, the key to understanding the meanings of the Tarot cards, you have to look at the cards from these perspectives.

Let's have a look at these various associations and correspondences:

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1. Symbolism: It is a well known fact that the Tarot cards are the repositories of many different symbols. These symbols range from the very simple (red rose stands for desire) to the very complicated (the Kabbala Tree of Life on the 10 of Pentacles card). For the ardent student of the Tarot, it is essential to gain an understanding of these symbols and understand the different meanings which can be derived from these symbols. The red rose on the Magician card adds the meaning of 'desire and intent' to all the actions performed by the person in the card, and the Tree of Life on the 10 of Pentacles adds the meaning of completion and perfection to the meaning of that card.

2. Mythology: Myths have been conveyed in the form of in the form of images on the Tarot cards. These myths add another level of meaning to the cards themselves, while giving a lot of background material towards understanding the deeper motives and philosophies behind certain symbols present on the card. For example, the pomegranates on the curtain behind the High Priestess refer to the mythological story of Persephone in Greek Mythology. Unless we read / know the story of Persephone, it would be difficult to understand how and why these pomegranates talk about fertility.

3. Psychology: Noted Swiss psychologist Carl Jung devoted his life to the study and analysis of the various symbols of Man. He considered the Tarot cards to be full of several Archetypes which human beings deal with in their daily life. Studying the Tarot cards from the perspective of psychology can also open up doorways into our inner self and can help us in our process of what Jung called 'Individuation'. A good example of this concept is expressed in the Empress card, which is a personification of the Mother Archetype.

4. Numerology: There are numbers on each of the Tarot cards (except for the Court Cards). Therefore, it may seem important for some of us to study the numerological aspect of these cards. Each number stands for something. And on the card, it certainly adds into the meaning of the card. For example, the Major Arcana card, the Emperor has the number 4 on it. Among other things, the number 4 stands for stability (any structure stands on four legs). So, this number definitely adds to the meaning of the Emperor card, and says that the Emperor is a provider of stability to his kingdom. Or it can also say that the Emperor has achieved a state of emotional, mental and spiritual stability in his life.

5. Astrology: All the cards in the Major and Minor Arcana are often linked to different astrological signs and so on. A study of these aspects can only serve to add to the meaning of that card. For example, the Magician card is linked to the planet Mercury. Mercury is the planet of communication. And the Magician is always a leader - so, this means that communication is his forte, simply because to be a good leader, one must have good communication skills.

If one studies the Tarot cards with all these different perspectives, it ensures that one is closer to the lessons of self development offered in these wonderful cards. If you want to study the different meanings of the Tarot cards, just visit my website and subscribe to my free email newsletter.

5 Keys to Understanding Tarot Card Meanings

Teresa Caro is a tarot card enthusiast and professional tarot card teacher. She has written a book on reading tarot designed to help the beginner read for them self and others. You can learn more about her book and sign up for her free newsletter at http://www.ReadingTarotCardsRevealed.com

Sound Effect - Thrill in Watching Magic Tricks

Fun, entertainment and amazement is what you will have in watching magic show. Great magicians are used to that applause of his viewers in every magic performance they have done. And as a spectator, you can't help it but give the appreciation that you have seen watching a great performance.

Performing magic is not easy, there are lot of things you need to learn and it actually takes time to be famous and known to people. As seen on TV there are magician who have been established a name in the field of magic. Doing different gimmicks is what they need to do to be recognized by their viewers.

Magician

Being a magician you should be creative enough in thinking what would the people want to see during your show. You must put your feet on their shoe to know and understand what viewers expecting want to expect on your performance. Of course there should always a sense of surprise and intensity, intensity that the audience are some how be carried away on what you are doing.

Learn how to get your viewers attention and focus on what you are doing. Make them involve on your show by asking someone to volunteer and be one of the props to make a magic trick possible. Of course there is a thrill on that, and will surely be an intense performance knowing that other viewers seen that you have ask someone to participate on your show. Of course those who have not volunteered will just watch you over and feel the intensity of the pressure that you have.

Most of these viewers are wise enough to conclude what will happen next, you should think of some twist so that your performance is unpredictable. That is what most audience like expecting the unexpected. And of course you should not forget to say some lines while performing a magic trick, viewers usually got bored if the place is too silent, if you are not a type of person who talks during a performance, you may ask someone to play a background music or sound effect during your performance. This will increase the intensity of the crowd watching you; it will add more thrill and excitement and feel the nerves of your crowd. Sound effect should be appropriate to your performance and it must put some reaction on your audience, it can be a beat from the drum or cymbals or any sound that add thrill on your magic trick performance.

Sound Effect - Thrill in Watching Magic Tricks

Article Author Eliza Maledevic from http://www.Jump2top.com a SEO Company.

Hat Yai Arrivals and Depatures

You will find Hat Yai located deep in southern Thailand, right on the border with Malaysia. Because it is the second largest city in Thailand, getting there is no problem whatsoever, even if it isn't a usual stop for western tourists. The 3 best ways to get to to and from this city are by airplane, train or bus.

By Airplane

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Hat Yai International Airport is located about 5 miles outside the city making it quite easy to get into the city proper once your plane has landed. You can get direct flights from Bangkok (both Suvarnabhumi and Don Muang), Kuala Lamphur in Malaysia and Singapore. There are also flights from cities in the U.S., Asia and Europe as well as domestic flights from most cities in Thailand. Because of the large Muslim population in Hat Yai there are also many direct flights to and from the Middle East.

By Train

There is a large train station in Hat Yai and it is cheap and easy to get trains here heading north to Phuket and Bangkok as well as south to Kuala Lamphur. The rapid overnight trains are a good bargain and if you can get a sleeper car you can arrive at your destination fairly well rested. If you are interested in a sleeper train you should contact the station in advance to book tickets as they can sell out, especially during Thai holidays and the Hajj when local Muslims will be making their journey to Mecca.

By Bus

Buses are the cheapest way to get around in Thailand and Hat Yai is no exception. You can get a bus from here to most of the Thai southern cities as well as Bangkok and also to the cities in Malaysia. The government buses run on a standard schedule and the rot air buses (air conditioned) are actually quite comfortable, at least for shorter trips. The rot thammada buses are not air conditioned and I wouldn't recommend taking them unless you really need to save the extra that a rot air bus would cost you. In addition to the government buses there are also many private bus companies that can transport you almost anywhere in Thailand or Malaysia.

As you can see, getting to Hat Yai is quite easy and you have a wide variety of options depending on your budget and how quickly you wish to arrive. Likewise, you can find many transportation options leaving for points north and south. Traveling to Malaysia and Singapore by train of bus from here can actually be quite a bit of fun if you aren't in a hurry.

Hat Yai Arrivals and Depatures

To learn more about Hat Yai and Hat Yai attractions please visit the authors website.

Criminal Profiling and the Magic of the Fashion Police

Is criminal profiling the latest fad in law enforcement? Does fact merge with fiction to produce sleight of hand deceptions? Has Hollywood capitalized on the public's imagination of myth and magic? If recognize the fiction over the fact, how come some many have bought into it? Are we so obsessed by quick and easy solutions to crimes that we pursue any possibility? Okay, so these are just a few questions we could ask the myriad of so-called experts. You know, all those who've surfaced over the past decade. They show up on news shows offering they're self-induced solutions to some heinous crime. Some are retired law enforcement types. Others are ensconced in the protective realm of their academic regalia. As such, the collective of mental mayhem clouds and confuses the reality of human criminality. So, instead of crime analysis, we have profiling. New names for old ways of following the same processes and procedures. But, in an era of fast food, quick answers, instant gratification and rapid solutions to every puzzle, we'll chase any alleged new scheme. The fad of new fiction is easy to accept, so long as they are well-marketed, dressed nicely and look pretty. Smoke and mirrors are everything to the deception of public reception. That's at least what we see on TV. Where else, other than police work, can so many outside the profession come to aid the police? The wide-eyed glee of solving sensational crimes comes from the drama of fictional portrayals.

But, that's not very encouraging. If the police need so much help, from people who've never been inside a patrol car, or walked a beat, then why do we need the police? Isn't that what we recruit, hire and train the police to do in the first place? That is, be highly skilled, proficient and expert in the field of criminology. And, at the same time, aren't we supposed to provide the resources to ensure that expertise? Okay, that said, why all the psychic gurus any way? Wait, maybe it's that old idea about the "expert'? You know, if you come from out of town, carry a briefcase, wear an expensive suit, charge a huge consulting fee, you're an expert. It also helps if you appear on major networks, give a few opinions, and guess about a bunch stuff. Actually, you can make things up. We call those theories. And, if you look good on camera, we'll actually believe what you're saying a lot easier.

Magician S Hat

Why can't we keep it simple? Get back to basics and pursue the fundamentals of good police work. One answer is, we're too impatient. Another is that we have to look good. The press, politicians and the public want window dressings. They think they need "feel good stories with happy endings" in order to "feel safe" in a world of predators. Myth, magic and metaphor are important within the psychological necessity of explaining the world around us. However, at times, the illusions are translated into literal interpretations that foster dogmatic acceptance of ancient superstitions. So, with silver bullets, wooden stakes and holy water, we pursue the "demons". Chasing the "monsters" as "mind hunters" on a medieval gothic landscape, we make sure the cameras are rolling. With cinematic invention, we rush to use generic templates of ever expanding complexity. The paradox of course is that we think we're making things simpler.

As opposed to dramatic cloak and dagger antics of the "hunt", why can't we admit that human behavior is not easily catalogued, defined or predicted? Let's just say, for example, that the old idea of modus operandi, or M.O., is a continuum. An ongoing process of thought and action to carry out motive, intent and desire. It's not some mystical notion about slaying "dragons" or getting inside the "criminal mind". If the "mind" is an illusion created by the cerebral processes of the brain, then how can you find it? Where do you look? Or for that matter, how do you get inside of it if it doesn't exist? And, if you want to get "inside" the "criminal mind", then just think like a normal human being. Because the only difference between them and us, is the criminal chose to commit a crime. Carried his or her ideation into reality. The rest of us are still thinking it over. We all do bad stuff. Yet, how can we tell? You decide along a continuum of ideation. Good versus evil, a process of personal decision making. Fantasizing about this or that, we make choices as to what we want. Some of us choose to do heinous and cruel things to others. We all look for targets of opportunity.

For most us, we'll eventually do something wrong. Will it be a stop sign violation, cheating on taxes, breaching a contract, hitting a spouse or something more devious? All depends on how we think doesn't it? The continuum continues from thought to fruition. M.O. is a way of thinking about capabilities, skill-sets and gain absent the risk of discovery. So, how easy is it to define, describe or define human behavior? Answer: not very easy. At best, assessing criminal behavior boils down to creative guesswork. That's what profiling does, makes guesses. So, basing the future success of an investigation on guesswork should be a suspicious endeavor. The neurological processes of human thought are individually far too complex. Thinking, which leads to behavior, is multidimensional while, at the same time, mysterious. We don't really know what a person is thinking at given moment in time. All that stuff is hidden and buried in the dark recesses of human motive, intent and desire.

We only know what people are willing to tell us. If they happen to be a criminal, then how can we believe with absolute certainty someone who commits crimes? Isn't that why we call them a criminal? They're deceptive, devious and dishonest. And, anything they say is subject to question. Using simplistic formulas, statistics and templates puts human behavior in little compartments. People can adapt, change motives, alter methods and otherwise change their behavior. But, in the movies, a different story of magic, myth and mystery are told. We tend to think major crime scene investigations are all too easily figured out. Just by "reading" the scene we supposed to be able to see "inside the criminal mind". Well, if the mind's an illusion created by cerebral chemistry, then how can we "see" something that doesn't really exist? So, while "profiles" summarize questionable possibilities, the necessity good forensic evidence remains crucial to the overall investigation. Instead, a continuum of effective and efficient police work is essential. Fads forming around fiction don't solve crimes. Good police work does. Crime scene reconstruction and analysis, proactive investigative tactics, aggressive patrol efforts, articulate documentation and behavioral assessment of the people involved are elements within this continuum of operational investigative strategy.

Television shows are great at adding to the legerdemain of police fiction. While entertainment is essential to our American culture, we get sidetracked from reality and slumber into urban legends. At the same time, these superficial and naïve approaches to real life sooner or later infect public policy. Pandering politicians, reacting to public and media pressure, sooner or later meddle in police operations. An urgency, or rush to judgment ensues, adversely impacting investigative efforts. Political acquiescence to find "feel good" solutions, stifle critical crime analysis. That interferes with proactive persistent police work. Instead, what we see is the magic of urban legend at work. Profilers have become magicians wearing psychic hats performing amazing fetes of profound criminological solutions. Movies portray such conjurers jetting coast to coast, consulting and solving complex acts of human behavior. With unlimited budgets, over-staffed teams and high-tech equipment, the performers cast the spell of rapid case closure. Proposing the most amazing assertions of type cast criminals, they come to the aid of the criminal justice community, rescuing the police in the nick of time. For some of us, we seem to be losing the skillful art of the investigative process. The percentage of major crimes being solved seems to be decreasing. In spite of stupendous innovations like the alleged successes of profiling, "reading crime scenes" and "getting inside the criminal mind", clearance rates appear to be suffering significantly nationwide.

As a result of wishful thinking, the illusion of fallacies of inference, bring us to the edge of faulty beliefs. Guesswork gets transformed and packaged into the fad of fashionable deception supported by broad generalizations. Sometimes, we put on the cloak of the latest gee whiz in-thing to do. Such bias takes us into the Sci-fi of things like polygraphs and psychic investigators. Misleading us into the hoax of quick, easy and reliable solutions, we rush into the acceptance of nebulous notions. To reassure a naïve public and a ratings obsessed media, we rush unwittingly to embrace the latest trend of some theoretical criminological craze. Yet, in the end, the arrogance of investigative bias and preconceived notions must be controlled to every extent necessary. Identifying the perpetrator, gathering the evidence and solving the case, relies on dedicated and determined efforts of competent police officers. Such efforts are based on valid foundations of logic, reason and solid evidence.

References:

http://www.criminalprofiling.com/'Profiling'-as-Poison%22-by-Professor-David-Canter_s233.html;
"Profiling As Poison", an article by Prof. David Canter, December 12, 2001;

http://www.crimelibrary.com/criminal_mind/profiling/s_k_myths/6.html, article by Pat Brown, in re: The Real Serial Killer;

http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/jr000243b.pdf, an article by Wellford, C. and Cronin, J., "Clearing Up Homicide Clearance Rates;

http://skepdic.com/news/newsletter15.html, discussion by R. T. Carroll, Nov. 9, 2002;

Criminal Profiling and the Magic of the Fashion Police

Biographical Sketch of Randy Gonzalez
P.O. Box 19162
Sarasota, Florida 34276
941-915-8998
http://www.drgonzo.org
http://www.myspace.com/cryptocriminology

Randy Gonzalez has been an active member in the criminal justice field for the past 32 years. As a police officer, deputy sheriff and police instructor, he's taught and written on various criminal justice issues. Dr. Gonzalez is a former police chief. And, as a police academy director, he was responsible for basic recruit training, as well as career development courses for in-service law enforcement personnel. Dr. Gonzalez also serves as an adjunct professor of criminology on the faculties of a state university, community college, private university and local technical institute. He serves as an educational consultant to schools and colleges on matters of law enforcement education.

Dr. Gonzalez holds B.A. and M.A. degrees in Criminology, an M.P.A. degree in Public Administration, a Ph.D. in Philosophy. As well as law enforcement instructor certificates. He's a member of various professional organizations and writers groups.

Blast From the Past - The Renaissance Wedding Dress

With the definition of Renaissance being: "reconstruction" and "rebirth", most Renaissance wedding dress designers choose to create wonderfully ornate garments that combine the grandeur and luxury of the old with the sewing techniques of the modern age.

As your guide to anything and everything about Renaissance wedding dresses, we're providing you with a list of information on this wedding dress style.

Magician

What Is It?

As you no doubt already understand from its name, the Renaissance wedding dress refers to a specific gown style. The style and the design of the Renaissance wedding gown is patterned after the fashion trends during the 1400s until the 1600s.

Renaissance wedding gowns are more demure or covered than today's wedding dress designs, but are also just as elegant and stylish as their modern counterparts. These wedding dresses come in different colors and designs, with slight variations on skirt styles and necklines.

The similarities of all the different Renaissance wedding gowns include long-sleeves and a long, flowing or A-Line skirt.

Why We Love It

How can you not love something that pays homage to history? Although you may find it difficult to locate an authentic and still wearable Renaissance wedding dress, you will find that many designers these days give you the opportunity to have a historical themed wedding.

The intricate designs and detailing, and the fabulous use of texture and fabrics are all elements taken into consideration to create gorgeous Renaissance wedding garments. Most of the fabrics used in the creation of these gowns are luxurious and expensive, giving you an aura of being majestic and terrific, deserving only the best of what the world can give.

Luxurious, elegant and almost sinful in their opulence-these are just some of the adjectives we can use to describe these fabulous Renaissance wedding dresses.

Blast From the Past - The Renaissance Wedding Dress

Want to read more of this article? You can read more tips on Renaissance Dresses [http://fancyweddingattire.com/category/article-pages/wedding-dress-styles/renaissance-dress], plus other Bridal Tips only at http://fancyweddingattire.com

Amazing Facts About Mexico And Mexicans

Did You Know...

Mexico has 27 World Heritage Sites. It has more World Heritage Sites than Australia (17), Brazil (18), Canada (14), Egypt (7), Greece (17), Peru (10), Japan (14) and the United States (20). Some of the wonders of Mexico are the Historic Town of Guanajuato, the Historic Centre of Puebla, the Pre-Hispanic City of Teotihuacan, the Historic Centre of Morelia, the Historic Monuments Zone of Querétaro, the Pre-Hispanic Town of Uxmal, the Historic Monuments Zone of Tlacotalpan and the Ancient Maya City of Calakmul.

Magician S Hat

Did You Know...

Mexico now ranks 53rd of 177 countries in the United Nation`s Human Development Index.

Did You Know...

Mexico has the world record for beaches: Cozumel, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Escondido, Puerto Angelito, Puerto Angel, Playa Cementerio, Playa Canta Mar, Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco, Barra de Navidad, Zihuatanejo...

Did You Know...

Guadalajara hosts the 2011 Pan American Games. The Pan American Games will host more athletes from more countries and territories, competing in more Olympic sports for more Pan American medals, than ever before in the 55-year-history of the modern Pan American Games.
Did You Know...

The Chichen Itzá Pyramid in Mexico was named one of the new seven wonders of the world.

Did You Know...

The Zacatecas Cathedral is considered one of the world`s most beautiful churches.

Did You Know...

The most renowned Mexican painter after Frida Kahlo was Diego Rivera. Who was he? Diego Rivera was Frida Kahlo`s husband.

Did You Know...

More languages are spoken in Mexico than in Europe. That`s because that country is home to 60 Indian nations.

Did You Know...

In 2007, three Mexican teenagers won the Eight National Geographic World Championship. They were Emanuel Johanssen Campos (15), Carlos Franco Ruíz (14) and Angel Aliseda Alonso (16). Johanssen, was born in Tejalpa, Mexico, said, "To win gold, it`s really great. I don´t have any words". They had help from translator in the contest, which was held in English.

Did You Know...

Mexico is a study in contrasts. Bustling modern places with all the latest amenities are surrounded by mountains and rainforest.

Did You Know...

Lagunas de Montebello National Park is one of North America`s great wildlife sanctuaries. It is one of the most important tourist spots in Mexico.

Did You Know...

Anthony Quinn was the first Mexican to receive an Academy Award-as Best Supporting Actor for his 1952 performance in "Viva Zapata!". He played Emiliano Zapata, who was one of the leading figures of the Mexican Revolution of 1910.

Did You Know...

Felipe Muñoz was an Olympic swimmer who won one gold medal in swimming at the 1968 Olympic Games.

Did You Know...

Mexico is the richest and most highly developed country in Latin America.

Did You Know...

The national sport in Mexico is soccer. Many Mexican children begin playing football as soon as they can walk.

Did You Know...

Raul Velasco will remain one of the greatest television hosts of all time. He was born in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico.

Did You Know...

Mexico is nearly three times as large as Texas and more than twice as large as Venezuela.

Did You Know...

Benito Pablo Juárez García became the first indigenous president in the world. He was elected president of Mexico in 1858. Benito Juárez is admired for his integrily and steadfast principles.

Did You Know...

Mexico has many famous athletes: Soraya Jiménez (weighlifter), Joel Sánchez (athletics), Iridia Salazar (taekwondo), Fernando Platas (diving), Victor Estrada (taekwondo), Cristian Bejarano (boxing), Belem Guerrero (cycling), Oscar Salazar (taekwondo) and Ana Guevara (track and field).

Did You Know...

Laura Elena Martinez Harring from Texas became the first Hispanic-American woman to be crowned Miss United States pageant (1985). She was born on March 3, 1964, in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico.

Did You Know...

Salma Hayek is a Mexican motion-picture actress who became a symbol of breakthrough of Latin American performers in U.S. films. She was born in Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico.

Did You Know...

Mexico is largely known abroad for producing great business leaders: Emilio Azcarraga, Roberto Hernández Ramírez, Angel Losada, Jeronimo Arango, Carlos Slium Helú, Joan Sanchez Navarro, María Asunción Arambuzabala, Lorenzo Zambrano, Isaac Saba Raffoul, Alfredo Harp Helú and Ricardo Salinas Pliego.

Did You Know...

The vast majority of Mexicans in the United Mexican States area now enjoy a greater quality of life than over before.

Did You Know...

The most famous Mexican song is "Maria Bonita" by Agustín Lara. "Maria Bonita" is a symbol from Mexico in the world. Agustín was born in Tlacotalpan, Veracruz, Mexico.

Did You Know...

Mexico is one of the most stable and democratic nations in the Third World.

Did You Know...

Eulalio Ríos attains his place in history as the first Mexican to win a Pan American gold medal in the 200 meter butterfly swimming competition at the 1955 Pan American Games.

Did You Know...

Acapulco hosted the Miss Universe 1978. For the first time, Miss Universe pageant was held in Mexico. Acapulco was chosen as hosts by Miss Universe Organization in June 1977. There were 75 contestants participating in this year´s pageant. Margaret Gardinier won the first Miss Universe title for South Africa. Miss Yucatan and Miss Mexico, Alba Margarita Cervera Lavat, qualified for the semi-finals at the Miss Universe. The judges were Christian Martell (Miss France and Miss Universe 1953), Dewi Sukarno (former first lady of Indonesia), Ursula Andress (Swiss actress), Mario Moreno (Mexican actor), Roberto Cavalli (Italian fashion designer), Anna Moffo (American soprano), Line Renaud (French actress), Melba Moore (American singer), Milos Forman (Czech filmmaker) and Wilhelmina (former Dutch supermodel).

Amazing Facts About Mexico And Mexicans

Alejandro Guevara Onofre: He is a freelance writer.Alejandro is of Italian, African and Peruvian ancestry.He´ve studied political science and journalism.He has published more than seventy-five research paper in English, and more than twenty in Spanish, concerning the world issues, olympic sports, countries, and tourism. His next essay is called "The Dictator and Alicia Alonso".He is an expert on foreign affairs. Futhermore, Alejandro is the first author who has published a world-book encyclopedia in Latina America.

He admires Frida Kahlo (Mexican painter), Hillary Clinton (ex-First Lady of the USA), and Jimmy Carter (former President of the USA). His favorite film is "Gorillas in the Mist".Some of his favorite books are "The Return of Eva Peron and the Killings in Trinidad" (by V.S.Naipaul), "Las Mujeres de los Dictadores" (by Juan Gasparini) and "Murder of a Gentle Land" (by John Barron and Anthony Paul).His personal motto is "The future is for those people who believe in the beauty o f their dreams" by Eleanor Roosevelt.

Does Wearing A Hat Cause Hair Loss?

They say that if you wear a hat too much, you will eventually develop bald spots. The question now is, is this fact or fiction? Will wearing a hat everyday cause your hair to thin out? It is high time that this issue gets straightened out.

In all reality, there is no evidence - clinical or otherwise - that shows wearing a hat or a cap on a regular basis would trigger hair loss. Many men who are fond of wearing baseball caps would be happy to know this. However, it is also a fact that hats may cause hair damage. And it is rather true that certain damages caused to the hair may trigger such a condition.

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Hats may also cut proper blood circulation on the head but only on a minimal basis. Actually, hats should be really tight before this becomes the case. Yet, the lack of air flow through your head somehow causes the hair to be soaked in sweat. The result is not so good, especially if there are dirt and dead skin cells present on the scalp as well. The effect will be clogged pores, causing the hair follicles to suffer.

When hair follicles suffer, things like hair loss may be induced. While this isn't always the direct result of such an incidence, having unhealthy hair follicles are not actually conducive to a full lock of hair. To reverse the condition, the use of the best hair loss shampoo maybe in order. Such a shampoo stimulates the follicles, thus decreasing the possibility of sensitivity.

The thing is, if you're wearing hats, you might have to stock a bottle of two of the best hair growth shampoo in your bathroom locker. This way, you can immediately cleanse your hair and invigorate your scalp so no hair loss problems would occur now or in the future.

While there is no direct evidence that wearing a hat can trigger the loss of hair, this doesn't mean that you should neglect the proper grooming of hair altogether. More so, the myth associated to hats and hair loss may be due to the fact that the men who use hats are usually the ones with scalp problems.
The thing is, you can wear hat everyday and never have to worry about hair loss for as long as you know the grooming regimens that go with hat wearing. Hair loss is mostly connected to bad genes, poor nutrition, and unhealthy lifestyle more than anything.

Does Wearing A Hat Cause Hair Loss?

Roger Peters researches, reviews, and examines hair loss conditions in both men and women. He checks and recommends the best hair growth shampoo that was proven to work optimally on thinning hair. He delivers information about the best hair loss shampoo in the market.

Wearing Hats With Style

Hats have become a fashion which were used only for necessity originally. Over a period of years, hats have become symbols of style. Some people use hats with skill while others intensify their attractive look with them. The right hat and the manner of wear it can make the difference. Learn how to wear a hat with confidence and be free from possible fashion faux pas:

Shape and color. On no account, choose a hat that does not match or complement the shape of your face or the color of your skin. For example, if you shape of face is quite long, it is not advisable to wear a tall hat because it would further enhance the length of your face. As for colors, find a hat that goes with your skin tone, for example, when you have reddish cheeks, wear brown hats.

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Should you try to match the hat to the clothes? It may not always be cool to match the hat with the clothes. Think about the textures and fabrics as well as just the color - putting a leather hat with a leather jacket is not a cool combination.

Match your outfits as per the need of the season. Wearing a sunhat during winter will make you look odd. This outfit can really make you look funny. Try to match the hat to the season, not only because it is convenient, but also to protect your personal image. No one wants to be a walking fashion disaster!

Match occasions with your hats. Think about an appropriate hat for the occasion or event you are attending. It may sound obvious, but be careful not to wear a tall hat to the movies, say, or a sun hat for an indoor event.

Always wear a hat that fits you well. Hats should be bought keeping in view they don't fall off every time you tilt your head! If you have lines on your head after wearing a hat, that means you are wearing a hat that is way too tight. A hat that does not fit well on your head will be obvious to others and will not be a good look.

Styling of hair with a hat will give you a new look. The main rule here is to wear your hair just as you do when not wearing a hat. Leave some bangs showing in front if you are wearing a knit hat. If you are trying a beret, set it back a little from your forehead.

Don't buy retro hats! Do not sport old fashioned hats - there was a good reason that they went out of fashion! It's merely due to the fact that they are no longer appealing - so stay away from this type of hat.

Remember that this is really good advice to help wear a hat the correct way - if it is not comfortable, then it's not fashionable or the right look for you and vice versa.

Wearing Hats With Style

Jacquie Generra writes about hats and fashion as a staff writer for HowToDoThings.com.

Every Successful Magician Sets Goals

Magicians, they are funny, mystical,magical, amazing and amusing. What does it take to become a successful magician? Is it easy to be a magician? No way, it takes an ability to plan and with that plan comes goals...both personal and business.

As magicians we sometimes forget there are two words in what we do. That is, Magic Business. It is the second word, business that counts. If you are not in magic as a business you are in it for a hobby. Today it does not matter, the thing is, with magic and your act, you must do what all successful magicians do. That is, Set Goals.

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Goal setting is the road map that will get you to where you are going. You don't always just get in the car and drive,sometimes you plan it out. Life is like that. If you set goals you achieve them. Failing to set goals and not plan you can never measure to see of you are on track.

When a magician designs a routine or a show, he or she (and yes, there are many female magicians) knows from start to finish where they are leading the audience. It's just like setting goals.

You can follow the S.M.A.R.T. formula, That formula is around in books and websites all over the place. Do some research and you will find it.

My point here is simple, you must set goals regardless of the system you use. I urge you to take a step and write down your goals today. Pick five and write them down daily if you like. Remember also, goals change and that is okay. the thing is, every successful magician sets goals.

I don't care if you are a magician or a doctor or a farmer. Start setting goals today.

Every Successful Magician Sets Goals

Mark T. Joseph is a Professional Magician and World Record Holder whom you may know by his stage name 'Mark Mysterrio.' Mark was on a bed of nails for 283 hours and 5 minutes to get into the record books. Mark does over 300 plus shows per year, has authored books, dvd and tv series for children and has three dogs Mojo & Sasha -his two chinese shar-peis and a small dog named tripper.Mark has started a global mission in which 10% of his income will go to UNICEF. We call it: Mark Mysterrio's Mission Aardvark., you can read more here: http://ultimatemagicshows.com

Choosing A Beekeepers Hat

A face full of bees is a very unnerving experience for anyone, and it's something every beekeeper does their best to avoid. However it can happen suddenly and unexpectedly, which is why even experienced beekeepers wear a beekeepers hat and veil.

Even if you not confronted by this kind of alarming experience, the beekeepers hat and veil is a very necessary piece of safety equipment. Stings to head face a neck are more painful than any other area of the body.

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Many people also find that they experience a greater degree of redness and swelling with stings to this area. Not only is the skin more tender but It's impossible to quickly remove a stinger and reduce the amount of bee venom injected, without the aid of a mirror.

Now that you understand why you need to wear you beekeepers hat, you will need to choose a design that's best for you. There are several options available that fall in three general categories.

First there is the helmet style with detachable veil. The helmets are available in a plastic or woven material. This design still allows the beekeeper good peripheral vision as the veil is a very light net with nothing to obstruct your vision.

The downside of this design is that the light net can be easily blown against the skin which will allow the bees to sting you anywhere the net is touching.

Next there is a hat and veil combination, some of these have a regular hat and integrated veil, in others the hat is a formless double layer of fabric to prevent the bees puncturing it with their sing.

The veil of this design is held away from the face by a metal ring or other reinforcing. Some designs of reinforcing do restrict the beekeepers range of vision and you will need to make sure there is a means of preventing the veil from riding up while you work. If there are any gaps in the veil the bees could gain access to inside veil.

Lastly there is the beekeeping hood which is integrated into a bee suit or bee jacket. As the hoods is sewn to the suit or jacket and generally closed with a zip, there is very little chance of any gaps to allow the bees access.

The biggest down side of this increasing poplar style is that the beekeepers vision is restricted by the hood fabric and it's probably hotter to work in. As the best time to work with the bees are bright sunny days when most of the bees are out and about, You want to be as comfortable as possible.

The beekeepers hat is a really important piece of protective clothing and one that is considered the bare minimum by beekeepers. You want to choose one that is comfortable, practical to work in and that gives you good protection.

Choosing A Beekeepers Hat

Need more help with choosing a beekeepers hat, and getting started keeping bees? You'll find lots of articles, tips and advice that will help at www.SecretBeekeepingTips.com. A really good way to begin is by signing up for the 10 part Mini Course.

Bachmann Christmas Train Sets - Toys, Or Proper Railway Models?

It would come as a very big "Bah! Humbug!" indeed if the world's largest maker of model trains and model railroad equipment were to overlook the Christmas market. In the USA especially, the seasonally decorated electric train going round and round the base of the Christmas tree is something approaching the iconic status of the tree itself. A slight exaggeration maybe, but important enough for all the major players in the model railroad business to recognize the importance of the occasion - and the market - with suitably kitted out merchandise. Here, we're going to take a look at two of Bachmann's Christmas train sets and see what they offer the serious railroader or what paths into the hobby proper open up with the purchase of a Christmas tree train set.

Something for everyone.

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First amongst Bachmann's 2010 Christmas offerings is the Thomas Holiday Special - a Christmas train set in popular HO gauge, consisting of the now very familiar British outline 0-6-0 Class E2 tank engine in vaguely London and North East Railway powder blue livery, along with a candy-cane striped tank car, an open wagon with a Christmas tree inside and a 6 wheeler coach, in suitably Christmassy green. There is a 56" by 38" oval of Bachmann's E-Z snap-fit track, and a power pack and speed/direction controller complete the contents of the box. Thomas comes in wintery, but seasonal garb - with a snowplow on the front and a Santa hat on his smokestack. Oh yes, and the eyes on the front of the boiler, which do so much to humanize the locos in this series, move. This has a recommended retail price of 5.00, although street prices may well be less. As an actual model, it measures up pretty well too. Proportions of the locomotive and wagons are very nice and crisply detailed and the E-Z track is indeed, easily assembled and ready for operation in just minutes. More importantly, it's a great introduction to accepted standards of realism in HO gauge model railroading.

...and the big stuff!

Moving on up and into territory traditionally held by Lionel, Bachman Christmas train sets can also be had in G scale, or 1:20.3. For the newcomers to model-trainspeak, this means that the model is one-twentieth and point three the size of the real thing it is depicting. In plain language, these are quite satisfyingly big models. My personal favorite is the White Christmas Express, a late 19th Century wood-fired 4-6-0 ten-wheeler with the big balloon smokestack, tender and two vintage clerestory coaches. In this scale, the basic supplied oval of track requires an 8ft 2" by 4ft 3" space (compare this with the roughly 4ft by 3 ft space needed for the HO set) for setting up, but assembly and operation is no more challenging than in HO gauge.

The set contains, as you would expect, the track, plus a power pack and speed/direction controller and all the instructions for set up, if needed, on a DVD. The loco has operating headlights, realistic steam train sounds and the coaches have opening doors and interior lighting. But best of all, it looks so right! Bachmann have been very restrained in their decoration of the items in this set, so that if, heaven forbid, the days of steaming round the Christmas tree were to end, the locomotive and coaches could easily find new identities with new paintjobs in a highly detailed garden layout. At a retail price of 0.00, it isn't the cheapest option, but as with everything in this life, you get what you pay for.

Bachmann Christmas train sets are a great introduction to the hobby and to the range of product made by this model train giant. I have just briefly touched on a couple of my particular favorites, but the N gauge enthusiast hasn't been forgotten, nor has the On30 narrow gauger. Start dreaming now, because Christmas will be here before you know it.

Bachmann Christmas Train Sets - Toys, Or Proper Railway Models?

Liam is an avid collector of model trains and a gamer enthusiastic. He is also a webmaster of an online hobby shop: Spicy-Gifts-Hobbies.com.
So Stop by and visit his site for some great offers of Christmas trains, Lionel train sets, Bachmann trains and more..

Protect Your Western Hat Investment With a Hat Box

The perfect western hat can do so much for your country ensemble. Many of those who sport the western hat do so for it's fashion statement and for protection from the sun. A good, durable western hat isn't cheap either. Many people invest quite a bit of money into one. To protect that investment, maintenance and storage are necessary. A hat box can offer this and more.

First and foremost, you must keep the hat from sitting on the brim. Hats are not suggested to be set down anyway, at the very least they should be hung up. To avoid the risks of setting down or hanging up your hat, pop it into a hat box for protection. This way the shape will remain just as it should.

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The hat case also provides protection from sun damage. Left in direct rays of sunlight, a hat can lose it's pigment. A hat box keeps the light out and it's a cool, dry area for your cap to be when you cannot wear it.

When traveling with your hat, you have a place to store it. Instead of throwing it in the back seat of your vehicle or leaving it on a table in a hotel, place it inside the box. There is no dilemma as to where the best place is to hang the hat or wondering if it is exposed to heat; the box can give you peace of mind.

Worried about finding a hat box to fit the unique shape and size of your hat? Don't worry. Your dimensions are all you need. When ordering online, you will see what size hat the box holds. They come in different colors and offer a few different amenities like removable lid or a hatch lid. They can cost you between .00 and .00. If they don't have your size, they can customize a box to fit your hat's dimensions for little extra charge. Order online and you have the ability to look around for the best deals.

If your hat is sentimental to you and you don't want to have it ruined, then you should invest in a hat box and put your worries at ease. The life of your hat will be longer than you ever imagined so long as you provide proper care and maintenance for it.

Protect Your Western Hat Investment With a Hat Box

Shawn Nafziger is a content syndication expert for Effect in Indiana. For more information on a hat box, please visit the HammerPlastics.com website.

Sombrero Hat - The History & Origin

The sombrero hat is absolutely synonymous with Mexico, where it originated. It is a curiously strange looking hat, looking like a cross between a UFO and the hand piece from an air hockey game, or a giant Chinese wok with a high mound in the middle. Sombreros come in many splendid straw woven designs with great coloring, also they have a chin string to hold the hat in place. They were designed so wide to provide a big shade from the very sunny climate of Mexico, the super wide hat is big enough to cast a shadow over the head, neck and shoulders of the wearer.

Sombrero is a Spanish word which most likely developed from the word sombre, which is Spanish for shadow.

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If you are still slightly confused as to what a traditional sombrero looks like, think of the little cartoon mouse Speedy Gonzales. Although a sombrero in the truest sense of the word is this traditional Mexican hat, many fedora and other wide-rimmed hats also get called sombrero.

They are an absolutely unique and fantastic hat and can be bought hand-made from Mexico hatters for very cheap. You can also buy them from many places on the internet for bargain prices.

Sombrero Hat - The History & Origin

Please visit our website to buy sombrero hats, or for more information and pictures on the Sombrero Hat

Famous Magicians and Escape Artists

While the art of magic and the conjuring arts has existed since pagan times through priests, witches, etc., it is the ones who dare - the magicians who defy death and show acts that we ourselves wouldn't even dare think of - that have gained the most following and become the most remembered. Here are a few whom we believe rank among the best and most popular of all time.

Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin (1805-1871). Jean Robert-Houdin was the son of a French clockmaker, whose interest in magic began when he received from a bookseller - erroneously - a two-volume set of books on conjuring called Scientific Amusements instead of the books on clock making that he had reserved. He went on to study magic and opened the first magic theatre in France. Houdin is considered the Father of Modern Magic and it is from him that Harry Houdini took his stage name. Among his most popular acts were Second Sight, a two-person mind reading act where his blindfolded assistant (played by his son) described whatever it was that Houdin was holding or doing at the other side of the room; and Ethereal Suspension, where he suspended his son in mid-air, balanced only by his right elbow.

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Alexander Herrmann (1844-1896). Born to a family that was known as "the first family of magic," Alexander Herrmann's father was a physician who also performed conjuring acts. His elder brother Carl was a medical student who became a professional magician. When Alexander was eight years old, Carl kidnapped him from the family home after seeing his interest in magic and took him to Russia to teach him the art. The two brothers performed together until 1885, when they decided to go their separate ways. Dubbed "Herrmann the Great" by Russian society after his show stopping tour in Russia, Alexander eventually became an American citizen. He died in 1896 while on board a train on his way to a performance. Among his most popular acts are the Card Throwing act, where he would land a card on the lap of a spectator at the back of the theatre by throwing it through the air. Another is the Bullet Catch, an extremely dangerous trick, where spectators would fire loaded pistols at him and he would catch the bullets and remain unhurt.

Harry Houdini (1874-1926). Born in Hungary as Ehrich Weiss, Harry Houdini emigrated to America with his family when he was four years old. At age nine, he became a trapeze artist. He changed his name to Harry Houdini when he became a professional magician. The first name was chosen in homage to Harry Keller and his last name to Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin, both magicians who heavily influenced his art. Houdini specialized in escapism, of which his most famous act is called the Chinese Water Torture Cell, where he was hung upside-down with his ankles locked in stock, lowered into a glass tank filled with water, and the restraints locked to the top of the cell. In his later years Houdini set about exposing the frauds of self-proclaimed psychologists and mediums. He died at age 52 of peritonitis from a ruptured appendix after collapsing onstage during a performance in Michigan.

Harry Blackstone (1885-1965). Born as Harry Boughton, Harry Blackstone Sr. was one of the most famous stage magicians during the early 1900s, frequently appearing in the vaudeville circuits. His stage career started via a comedy act he did with his brother Peter Bouton. He was extremely popular during World War II through shows he did for the troops and was called The Great Blackstone. While he was considered an "elegant" magician with his white tie and tails, some of his acts, particularly his "Sawing a woman in half", could be quite imaginatively gory. This illusion is performed using a circular saw. Blackstone would demonstrate how it would be used by sawing a piece of lumber. Then an assistant would be placed on the table and sawn in half, with the saw seen to be going through her body. The woman's body particles are scattered by the blade, she shrieks, the blade stops, and of course her body is unharmed. Another famous illusion is the Vanishing Bird Cage where Blackstone invites children onstage and asks them to touch a cage with a canary inside. Blackstone then lowers the cage, throws it, and both cage and canary disappear in front of the children. In his later years Blackstone performed at The Magic Castle, a nightclub for magicians and magic fans. He died in 1965. His son, Harry Blackstone, Jr., followed his steps and is himself now a famous magician.

David Copperfield (1956-present). Described by Forbes Magazine as the most commercially successful magician in history, David Copperfield began practicing magic at age ten, and at twelve was admitted to the Society of American Magicians. Copperfield likes to work with large-scale illusions and huge magical feats. Among his famous acts are the laser illusion and flying illusion. In the laser illusion, Copperfield's body is sliced into two or more parts by his assistants using a laser beam. While his upper body sits down on a chair, the lower half continues walking. The flying illusion is a levitation trick where he flies around the stage, seemingly unsupported by any wires. Copperfield then invites a member of the audience, usually female, to join him and they both fly around ala Superman. Copperfield clinched his claim to fame when he made - in separate instances - a full size Learjet, and the Statue of Liberty, disappear into thin air before the eyes of the public.

David Blaine (1997-present). Of Puerto Rican and Russian Jewish descent, David Blaine White was four years old when his interest in magic began after seeing a magician perform tricks in a subway. Filming his own act and sending the tape to the ABC broadcast network led to his first television special, where he performed tricks for strangers, up close, as cameras filmed live. Blaine has since progressed to large-scale physical stunts such as Buried Alive, where he was buried in a transparent plastic box for seven days, underneath a tank filled with 3.5 tons of water. Blaine survived on two to three tablespoons of water daily for the entire week, and his only means of communication with the outside world was via a hand buzzer. In 2000, Blaine did another endurance test called Frozen In Time, where he was encased inside a huge block of ice for 62 hours with only air and water for sustenance. Two years later he defied vertigo by standing at the top of a 100-foot high, 22-inch wide pillar for 35 hours, enduring the high winds and cold weather with no food. His tour de force is the Self-levitation illusion, where he lifts himself up two feet above the ground. Blaine has been called the next Harry Houdini.

This list is by no means comprehensive. There are many, many more magicians - some from centuries ago, others in recent years - who have been famous and are probably some of the best. Magic continues to draw interest - in good times, in bad times - and has spawned a billion dollar industry of magic tricks, accessories, tools, books, kits.

Famous Magicians and Escape Artists

Ellusionist.com is considered to be the best online training grounds for people who want to learn effective, high-intensity magic tricks. Ellusionist is also home to the largest online magic forums on the web.

Magicians - Costumes and Accessories

When I took an interest on the subject of magicians, I immediately went to the internet to see what something like this would cost. What types of items were available for the costumes or accessories? If any literature was available that could be purchased so it could be read to get a better feel for the profession. Wow, there is a ton of information out there, so I started looking at the costumes and you have your basic cape, top hat and wand for men and for a woman or an assistant the sky is the limit.

So it gave me a little insight on why magicians like Houdini or Copperfield would wear jackets and pants. Vitelli normally wears a black suit and David Blaine is seen in jeans and T-shirt, like they say, "to each their own". It gives you more of a selection and allows you to create your own look. Although, I have to admit the little boys costume is very cute.

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Some outfits seen on the magicians were flashier than others and some appeared to be more comfortable to wear. Depending on the acts you do in your show would probably determine the type of costume you would wear; meaning if you use your arms a lot then you would not want to wear something restrictive.

There were also numerous books, DVDs and even music that you could use in the background for your show. It was nice to see that there is a large selection of reference materials. In reviewing some of the websites for props they range anywhere from the wand, to rabbits, to glowing balls, sponge balls, bronze hoops, cards and other things that are too funny to mention.

What was a relief to find is these things are affordable and for someone starting out and wanting to do this as a hobby they would be able to add pieces quickly. For example, a prop like the balancing coins would be in the price range of fifteen dollars and that was just a price from one website. In fact, the next time you are in the market for a unique gift you may want to look at a magic shop.

Magicians - Costumes and Accessories

The Pink Hatters - The Red Hat Societies Ladies in Waiting

Some of you, at some point, may have noticed young ladies, under fifty, dressed in stunning pink hats and lavender clothing? If you have, then you have seen a Pink Hatter. The Pink Hatters are the younger members of the Red Hat Society.

The Red Hat Society is a Society for women over fifty years of age. You might have seen these ladies, too. Ladies that are stunningly dressed in purple outfits topped off with an eye catching red hat.

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Pink Hatters hold the term Ladies in waiting because they are waiting to turn fifty to become a Red Hatter. This organization is a social group for women, so that women fifty and older could have the support of fellow women. It was also created to allow these ladies to really have fun. So what happens when a Pink Hatter, reaches fifty? A special ceremony is held. The Pink hatter will give up her Pink hat and be given a red one.

What caused this group to form in the first place? It was formed from the desire of many ladies. These ladies had reached the age of fifty and needed something to return the fun to their lives. The point of being a Pink or red hatter is to have fun, meet new people and be part of a community of women who have experienced life.

These ladies love to dress up. Dressing up in Pink hats and lavender for Pink hatters and purple with red hats for Red hatters is a requirement.

This organization of women has spread like wild fire. There are society chapters all over the world and many women are now joining well before their fifties. It is no longer a rare sight to have a twenty something Pink hatter. These women join to show support of women who have broken ground for them. Pink hatters sometimes join to support red hatter family members. Other times, it is to gain the encouragement and wisdom of a group of ladies who have lived life.

Because this society has gained such popularity, and has spread so far, conventions are held annually or semi annually in various countries. This gives the opportunity for greater networking. Pink hatters and red hatters from all over a state or all over a country have the opportunity to get together, and to make new friends.

Being a Pink or Red Hatter is all about having fun, as they say, you don't stop playing because you're old, and you get old because you've forgotten how to play. The Red Hatters remind not only themselves but also the younger women, how important play is. If you're a woman of any age looking for support, encouragement and wisdom why not consider becoming a Pink Hatter?

The Pink Hatters - The Red Hat Societies Ladies in Waiting

Pink Hat Society Ladies stop by to see a wide variety of Pink and Red Hat merchandise. Be sure to sign up for free coupons and sale notifications too!

Magician Or Illusionist

Often you hear people talk of "Magicians" or "Illusionists" as one in the same type of profession. You will hear people say that if you watch one do a trick then they are performing and illusion. On the other hand they will say an illusion is bigger than a trick because it takes more work to make a crowd see or hear something that is not there.

Vitelli is a Magician-Illusionist who is performing out there with some of the other names like David Blaine and Kriss Angel. He too provides an intense, exciting and elegant show that will have you speechless and wanting more. So what is it about magicians that draw us to their shows?

Magician

One of the things that have always made us smile both young and old is a magic show. For a brief time, while the show is going on this person has our undivided attention and it is a welcomed relief to enjoy something so entertaining. It makes you feel young again. We know it is not real and yet we play along enjoying the moment. It is when they want a volunteer, we shy away and hope they do not see us, because in some weird way we want to see the show and not be the show.

If we look and see what the definition is then a magician is considered to be an entertainer and someone skilled in producing illusions. When you read what illusionist is you will read that they are a magician who creates illusions, as by sleight of hand, or a visionary. In other words the terms are synonymous and can be exchanged to mean the same.

Thinking about what was just said above, let us go back and see what the difference in definitions of a "Trick" and "Illusion" would be since they are considered different things. Here is what you will read: a trick is a maneuver, the art of doing something skillfully, a practical joke, or an optical illusion. An illusion is a false or misleading impression of reality, being deceived, or the state or condition of being deceived. This came from the dictionary, so really an illusion is bigger just like thought in the beginning.

Magician Or Illusionist

Belle in the Slouch Hat - Author - Mimi Mathis - Book Review

Mimi Mathis's new book, Belle in the Slouch Hat, begins with describing Belle Brayden's Slouch hat in great detail. Belle and her brother Bud found this special hat together. This hat is not only sentimental on many levels, but also gives Belle a wave of added confidence when wearing it and facing challenging situations. The slouch hat plays a very crucial role throughout this entire story, as it becomes a character unto itself.

Belle and her family lived during the era of the Civil War. The author does a brilliant job describing the many hardships her family and friends faced as a result of the war. She describes the ugliness it caused to so many people. Unfortunately, one of the tragedies early on in this story describes how Belle's brother Bud is killed by the Yankees. Belle and her family are obviously heartbroken over the loss. However in the mist of darkness, Belle finds her inner determination to hunt for the person who is responsible for killing her brother, Captain Daemon Stryker.

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She began her journey by trying to find Captain William Quantrill, a friend who would ride with her brother. Both Bud and Quantrill were a part of the Confederate Guerrillas. During her search efforts, she met a woman by the name of Maude Madison, an Indian. Belle was friendly and engaging, telling Maude she is looking for Captain William Quantrill. Maude, rather aloof initially, soon began to trust Belle as they talked more. Maude shared with Belle the fact she too was a victim of Yankee violence. Both her son Zeke and her husband Ezekiel were killed by the Yanks. Maude talked at length about her spiritual faith and educated Belle about her culture. Maude's Indian beliefs hold The Great Spirit or Wah-ko-da as the master of life, as they have a high respect for nature and a unique view of the spirit world. They have spirit guardians that protect them from danger. Maude becomes Belle's spiritual mentor and by doing so helps Belle with her journey. Mimi Mathis does a wonderful job explaining the customs and the culture of the Native Indians for readers of all ages to understand.

In this amazing story you will read about Belle's many exciting adventures. Some stories are funny, some dangerous, but all tell of the love she had for her brother and her desire to revenge her brother's killers. You will read about her close friendship with Cherokee Sun, a horse that possesses magical powers. Cherokee Sun used to be Bud's horse. She writes about her "best-friend-cousin" Winnie and the loyal bond that Belle and Winnie formed.

Belle in the Slouch Hat is a beautifully written story that takes place in the South. It has an underling powerful spiritual message. Its biggest asset is the way the story draws in the readers by wonderfully describing the character's experiences and emotions. Mimi Mathis did a masterful job of bringing realism into her fictional characters. The cover is also tastefully done as it hints at what the reader will discover inside. I highly recommend Belle in the Slouch Hat to both teens and adults. There are a lot of lessons to be learned from this truly remarkable story.

Belle in the Slouch Hat - Author - Mimi Mathis - Book Review

Nicole Sorkin is the Managing Editor for pacific Book Review.
http://www.pacificbookreview.com

Bowler Hat - The History & Origin

The Bowler Hat, or Derby, as it is known in the U.S. was first created in London in 1850 by St. James Street hatters George and James Lock. The hat was created initially as a hard hat, custom made for an aristocrat-cum-game warden by the name of William Coke II, and for a short time assumed the name of a 'Coke Hat'.

The actual manufacture of the first prototype 'bowler hat' was handled by another London-based hatter named William Bowler. Due to the fact the hat was also bowl shaped, and manufactured by the William Bowler, the term 'bowler hat' soon replaced 'coke hat'.

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Because the bowler hat was initially created to be used as a hard hat for horse-riding people such as William Coke II, its use soon came to be standard for such horse riding events as the derby. One hatter from the United States duly noted the fact the hat was been used among those taking part in Derby's, therefore the term Derby hat took hold in the United States before the original - and still the traditional term in the United Kingdom - bowler hat term could.

Gradually, more sophisticated riding hats replaced the bowler hat and the bowler hat gained use as a hat to be worn on the street by well-to-do folk.

Bowler Hat - The History & Origin

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