September 25-October 1, 2003

city beat

Election Forecast

by Madame Laina

Madame Laina Yanni Hill, a Philadelphia-based "spiritual guide and medium" was the official psychic for the Allen Iverson All-Star After-Party and has been advising clients for 15 years. In the waning weeks before the election, sheíll review campaign events, consult astrological charts and use her intuition to give voters -- and the candidates -- insight into the race.

It’s All in the Stars

I am happy to bring to you my spiritual, sometimes spirited slant on the mayoral go-around between Sam Katz and Mayor John Street.

There has been a lot of turbulence early on in this campaign. Interestingly enough, the reason may not be just politics. During the past month, we were astrologically involved in a Mercury retrograde, a period when Mercury appears to be spinning away from earth. Mercury rules communication, travel and contracts, and during this time, it’s also called the planet of Murphy’s law. At least this campaign has gotten the retrograde out of the way early. Mars is also in retrograde at this time -- but don’t despair! It turns direct on Sept. 27, paving the way for a kinder, gentler campaign race. Getting over the new moon that passed on Sept. 25, Street and Katz should have clear sailing this week. Both candidates will gain strength to draw on from the universe as they promote themselves in the coming weeks.

Street

Mayor Street is a Libra and the scales love beauty and justice. Libras can be diplomatic but indecisive and they loathe conflict. Better that we all get along and move ahead than stray alone on angry paths, Libras think.

To Street: You have not had an easy time of it in the past few weeks! Your scales are a bit unbalanced and your desire to stay out of the limelight may be just what the planets ordered. Perhaps it's a good thing that you've stayed away from political forums. You're going through some rough astrological changes and meltdowns could continue temporarily.

Now may also be a good time for separation, as the unruly behavior of those that surround you detract from the wonderful programs and the progress that you have made during your first term in office. After the new moon, you will have renewed vigor and more positive energy. Take advantage of the spotlight! Venus will assist you in wooing your constituents. My intuition tells me that your meltdown is over and a remolded John Street will emerge.

Katz

Sam Katz, a Capricorn, is very educated and serious. Capricorns are ambitious, industrious and patient but can be unforgiving when others don't pull their weight.

To Katz: You are insightful in the areas of finance and business development, but you need to refocus. I sense a new attitude will go very far in suggesting that you are at ease with yourself. Smile more -- it will take you far this week! Do not focus on negativity. Play down your being a "victim" of the Street campaign. Past perceptions will not persuade voters. This new moon can bring a new you, adding closure to the past and opening the door for a new beginning!

Madame Laina can be reached at electionforecast@citypaper.net.