The Ludi Romani
The Ludi Romani, or Roman Games, were among the oldest and most celebrated public festivals of ancient Rome. Dedicated primarily to Jupiter Optimus Maximus, the king of the gods, they combined religion, theater, and spectacle in ways that underscored Rome’s civic identity and divine favor.
The origins of the games are traditionally traced to the monarchy. Livy (in Ab Urbe Condita) credits Tarquinius Priscus with instituting public games after his military victories. By 366 BCE, the festival was celebrated annually under the oversight of the curule aediles, whose offices were created that year (Livy).
Originally, the Ludi Romani were held on September 13, the day of the temple dedication of Jupiter on the Capitoline Hill. Over time, and though sources vary, the festival expanded to a two-week celebration, lasting until September 19, by the late Republic. Cicero (On the Laws) notes the religious centrality of these types of festivals, while Livy records their use as thanksgiving after successful campaigns (Livy).
The events opened with a pompa circensis, a solemn procession in which priests, magistrates, and statues of the gods paraded through the city to the Circus Maximus. Sacrifices were offered to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva. Then came the entertainments: chariot races, athletic contests, and later theatrical performances (ludi scaenici), which were added in the third century BCE. Dionysius of Halicarnassus (Roman Antiquities) describes the grandeur of the circus spectacles, emphasizing their role in binding citizens together.
The Ludi Romani were not merely diversions or simple contests, but a sacred duty.
They affirmed Rome’s covenant with the gods and reminded citizens of Jupiter’s protection. As festivals grew in scope, they were used to display generosity, hospitality, and, as is the Roman way, secure political favor. The enduring importance of the games reflected Rome’s belief that divine favor and civic prosperity were inseparably linked.
Beale Street Hoodoo History and Folklife Museum Opens in Memphis
MEMPHIS — A new chapter in Memphis’ rich cultural tapestry begins with the grand opening of the Beale Street Hoodoo History and Folklife Museum, a one-of-a-kind institution dedicated to preserving and celebrating the vibrant traditions of hoodoo, rootwork, and the lives of the people who carried and preserved these traditions in the African-American community.
The Beale Street Hoodoo History and Folklife Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories, practices, and cultural heritage of hoodoo and folklife in Memphis and the Mississippi Delta. Through exhibitions, education, and community engagement, the museum seeks to honor the past and inspire future generations.
The museum is located in the heart of the historic Beale Street district on the third floor of the historic A. Schwab. The museum invites visitors to explore the deep roots of hoodoo and its enduring influence on Memphis music, art, and community life. Through various exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling, the museum shines a light on the spiritual practices, herbal remedies, and folklore that have been passed down through generations.
Highlights of the Museum
Permanent Exhibits: Discover the origins of hoodoo in the Mississippi Delta, its connections to African American history, and its role in shaping the unique sound and spirit of Beale Street.
Artifact Collection: View authentic herbal remedies, amulets, and photographs of legendary Memphis spiritual workers.
Interactive Experiences: Participate in hands-on workshops, storytelling sessions, and guided tours that bring Memphis hoodoo history to life.
Community Programs: Engage with local artists, musicians, and tradition bearers through lectures, performances, and cultural events.
A Celebration of Heritage
The Beale Street Hoodoo History and Folklife Museum is more than a repository of artifacts—it is a living tribute to the resilience, creativity, and spiritual wisdom of spiritual workers in Memphis and the Mississippi Delta. The museum’s mission is to foster understanding, respect, and appreciation for the traditions that continue to inspire and empower people today.
Grand Opening Details
The museum will celebrate its grand opening with a reception and free tours on October 11th, 2025. Admission is free on opening day, and all are welcome to attend.
Beale Street Hoodoo History and Folklife Museum
163 Beale Memphis, TN 38103
(731) 693-1790
Crossings of the Veil
Lady Cara (October 28, 1945- September 6, 2025)
Lady Cara
The Wild Hunts is saddened to share the passing of Lady Cara, who peacefully crossed the Veil in the arms of the Goddess on September 6, 2025.
Lady Cara began her journey in Wicca in 1975, and by the late 1970s had risen to the role of Gardnerian High Priestess. For decades, she guided seekers with wisdom, compassion, and a deep commitment to service. She became a Reiki Master and shared her gifts of healing alongside her spiritual leadership.
In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Lady Cara established The Magical Forest, a beloved crystal shop that became one of the central hubs of the Pagan and Wiccan community in South Florida. There she provided not only tools for practice but also a gathering place where countless individuals found guidance, support, and friendship.
Many remember her as an incredible resource who helped them shape careers, nurture dreams, and discover their spiritual paths. Her mentorship and friendship were described by those who knew her as a shining gift, a guiding star in South Florida who illuminated the way for so many.
Lady Cara is remembered as one of the community’s most cherished elders. Those whose lives she touched speak of her ability to bring clarity, purpose, and direction, even in life’s most difficult times. Her legacy lives on through the wisdom she shared and the family of heart she helped bring together.
Beyond her spiritual work, Eileen was a world traveler and a fierce activist for equal rights. She dedicated herself to justice, to protecting the Earth, and wore the name “Tree Hugger” with pride. She loved animals (especially frogs) and delighted in reading, writing, drawing, political debates, and engaging fully with the world.
Lady Cara’s life was a testament to love, service, and community. She leaves behind a legacy of knowledge, courage, and inspiration embodied by a vibrant community in Florida who are confident that she will continue to guide and uplift all who were blessed to know her.
What is remembered, Lives.
Jaeme-Adelle Hughes
Jaeme-Adelle Hughes
Between forty and fifty friends gathered to celebrate the life of Jaeme-Adelle Hughes on Sunday, August 31, 2025. Hughes, also known as The Druid Jaeme, crossed the veil on August 21, at the age of 71. She was a beloved member of the Pagan community in Northwest Pennsylvania for many years.
Jaeme was a perennial vendor at local events, such as Erie Pagan Pride Day, where she sold custom garb, beaded spiders, and sculptures she called Wise Guys, made from black walnut hulls and other natural elements. She was especially well-known for her affinity for dragons.
Many people in the Erie area Pagan community turned to Jaeme for advice, support, and comfort. In addition to her son Michael, she was everyone’s honorary grandma/favorite aunt, and many local Pagans grew up enjoying her dragon eggs, apple pastries, and exploding frogs (chocolate frogs with Pop Rocks inside). Many brides and grooms were hand-fasted wearing garb she created.
Although Jaeme identified as a druid, she was the ultimate hedgewitch. Every place she inhabited, whether in downtown Erie or in the middle of the woods, was surrounded by magic. She was a friend to wildlife, especially cats, raccoons, and opossums, and everything grew and thrived under her care.A more formal memorial service will be held at the Erie Unitarian Universalist Church on Sunday, October 5, 2025, under the direction of Whispering Lake Grove – ADF.”
What is remembered, Lives.
Hail the Travelers!
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Events and Announcements
Some events coming soon….
Do you have news to share with our community?
Announcements? Festivals? Elevations? Events?
We’ll share it with the community in the
TWH Events Calendar featured on the Front Page.
(Yes, it’s free, we just need your information.)
Let us know at pcn@wildhunt.org
More Events at our new Events Calendar
Tarot of the Week by Star Bustamonte
Deck: Curious Travels Tarot Deck by Amelia Rozear, published by U.S. Games Systems, Inc.
Card: Major Arcana (XVIII) 18 – The Moon
This week, anxiety, with roots embedded in traumas of the past, has the potential to reassert itself in ways that may feel overwhelming. It would be wise to remember that the landscape illuminated in moonlight can appear far different and even sinister when compared to its appearance in sunlight. The subconscious can direct attention to unresolved past issues via the dreamscape, challenging an individual to delve deep and confront their fears.
Conversely, it is likely that having already navigated pathways full of fear-inducing illusion, the way forward is much clearer. The ability to banish anxiety and self-defeating thoughts that previously created doubt and indecision can be easily summoned now. Trusting one’s instincts and intuition will help in getting to where one wants to be.
The Bumpy Snailfish
It’s been a rough week! But, we’re sure the super cute Bumpy Snailfish can help a little.
The bumpy snailfish (Careproctus colliculi) is one of three new deep-sea species described. via 2019 MBARI
In 2019, researchers exploring the seafloor off California discovered three unusual fish species with large heads—one pink and bumpy, the other two jet black. Collected with submersibles and later studied through DNA and morphological analysis, the specimens were confirmed as previously unknown snailfishes, members of the family Liparidae.
Snailfishes are recognized for their gelatinous bodies, loose skin, narrow tails, and in some shallow-water species, suction discs on their bellies that allow them to cling to rocks and curl like snails. In the deep ocean, these discs may also help them grip the seafloor or hitch onto other animals.
All three new species were found in the eastern Pacific Ocean at depths between 3,268 and 4,119 meters (10,722–13,514 feet). The bumpy snailfish (Careproctus colliculi), with pink skin, large eyes, and a distinctive textured surface, was collected near the seafloor less than 100 kilometers offshore from Monterey Bay. The other two species were discovered nearly 300 kilometers off Santa Barbara during a single dive. The dark snailfish (Careproctus yanceyi), notable for its rounded head and horizontal mouth, was named in honor of marine biologist Paul Yancey. The sleek snailfish (Paraliparis em), with a long, compressed body and slightly angled mouth, was named after Station M, the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute’s long-term deep-sea observatory where it was found.
“These discoveries remind us how much we have yet to learn about life on Earth,” said study lead author Mackenzie Gerringer. Deep-sea snailfishes, researchers note, reveal not only hidden diversity but also surprising beauty.
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