Greetings, whoever you are; my name is John Huculiak. Whether you found one of the books I've set free or are just curious . . . let me answer the big question . . . Who the heck am I? - Good question!

I’m an amateur poet & professional researcher, who is currently working as the Assistant Museum Administrator for the Textile Museum of Canada (55 Centre Avenue - 1 block east of University off of Dundas Street).
Married for over three years to Toronto fashion designer, Sandra Huculiak, our original Masquerade Wedding outfits were made by Sandra . . .
(who is, BTW, the Owner of “Heretic” – www.heretic.ca / [email protected] / 416-364-4806. The former storefront operation at 465 Queen Street West, closed its doors on August 9th, 2002, due to her being tired of paying the enormous monthly rent, and the actual building being bought after three years on the market. The store still exists in cyberspace and Sandra takes private appointments at our studio. Shameless Plug ended for now ) . . .
on April 6th, 2002 at the University Women's Club, their wedding outfits (which were on display in the Moral Fibre exhibit at the Textile Museum of Canada, a year before I started working there), for our unique ceremony, written by your humble narrator.

Taking its inspiration from a mixture of oriental and occidental mythologies, the rite required the attendants to be in animal masks, representing specific totemic spirits. The Crane (Sandra’s Mask) symbolizes steadfastness, vigilance, and loyalty; the Phoenix (My Mask) symbolizes dynamism, and the immortality of spirit. Interesting to note, that in Ancient Egypt, the Crane and Phoenix were thought to be the same bird. It was a blast and if you are interested in more details (or my wife's expertise, whether for a corset or a corsair's shirt), feel free to e-mail me! Back to the "who" question.

I've been a devout reader and teacher of the Divinatory Arts for over half my life. A Graduate of Wilfrid Laurier University with Religion & Culture/History degrees to prove it, apprenticed under several experts in the field of Tarot, Bone Casting, I-Ching (yi-jing), and Runes; I'm now a recognized divination practitioner trying to help enrich peoples' lives without becoming "Divinationally-Dependant". I am currently working with the Esoteric Collective (see them at the Ear to the Ground festival September 16th to 18th) and the Royal Sarcophagus Society (their annual Autumnal Soiree is at the The Great Hall [Queen Street West, Toronto] on Friday October 28th – came and be entertained!), and run a diviners referral agency (if you ever need one for a party/fundraiser – let me know!)
Staff/Public reader for such places as Heretic, Lynn Robinson Gallery, and The Enchanted Forest Cafe, I've been approved by Project Oracle, recognized by NACPP as a Keeper of the Traditions, and involved in Roma affairs in the GTA. I have taught both the Introduction to Astrology and the Histories of Divination (which I created) for the Toronto District School Board’s Continuing Education Winter 2005 curriculum.

As a freelance archivist and lecturer, specializing in Rom History, the Histories of Divination Practices (both topics are as much to clarify what is factual or what is fabricated, as they are to enrich the serious-minded), and Faith Blending (very popular for families of mixed religious or individuals who lack faith). Lecturing at the Toronto Pagan Conference, February 4th, 5th & 6th, 2005 on Roma/Buddhist connection, has brought me to lecture next at the Toronto Pagan Pride Day 2005 @ Serena Gundy Park on September 24th.

Among the myriad side-projects in the past, I wrote for various magazine and web archives, my favourite was a monthly column called "Metaphysical Graffiti" for the now-defunct What's On Queen magazine (Still sad it’s no more - more often than not, you can find me walking along Queen Street, taking it all in) and was the Green Party of Canada candidate for the Etobicoke-Lakeshore riding in the 2004 Federal Election.

Well that's enough for now; I promise to keep this space update, for those who care. So, enjoy whatever book you're reading and hope that we will cross paths again soon. Peace be with you!