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From geller-hotline Sat Feb 15 13:18:21 1992
Date: 15 Feb 92 06:46:58 EST
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline@ssr.com
Subject: Deposition Data
The tentative date for Mr. Geller's deposition (now to be held in
Washington) is now set for March 2nd to 4th. Whether it will REALLY
take place, we aren't sure. I'll keep you informed. Geller has now
announced that I will also be sued in Hungary, from whence I have just
returned. His lawyer there listed a long set of my comments from my
book, The Truth About Uri Geller, as if I'd stated them in Budapest.
Mr. Geller, who has also, within the last few days, also threatened the
Bay Area Skeptics and Nature Magazine with lawsuits, has taken to the
law as a means of silencing everyone who displeases him. I do hope
that the BAS will not panic at this latest move by Geller. We can't
afford him any victories of any sort, and making the skeptics run
scared is certainly a triumph for him.
In my careless haste (and, no doubt, a touch of Altzheimer's!) I
credited Rick Moen with setting up geller-hotline. While Rick has
been a faithful supporter of mine and has contributed in many ways, the
credit for geller-hotline is due to Scott Ballantyne, and my apologies are
hereby tendered to Scott. Many thanks!
I'll be speaking at CalTech on March 22nd for the newly-forming Los
Angeles Skeptics (replacing the Southern California Skeptics). Anyone
in that area can contact director Michael Shermer at (818) 794-3119.
Skeptical groups and individual skeptics wishing to encourage the LAS
at their inception, can fax Michael at the same number, or write him at
2761 North Marengo Avenue, Altadena, CA 91001.
I've been somewhat embarrassed at the fact that my essay for TIME has
been bumped ahead repeatedly. If Clinton and breast implants hadn't
interfered, it would have been published by now. I still expect it
"shortly." Sigh.
All for now. I'll keep you all posted, and thanks again, Scott. JR
From geller-hotline Sun Feb 23 23:53:52 1992
Date: Sun, 23 Feb 92 23:53 EST
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Uri Geller made a surprise appearance in Budapest, Hungary, to confer
with his lawyer concerning alleged comments that James Randi made about
him during the taping of an upcoming TV show in that country, and in
the Hungarian press. He appeared on TV and said he would use his
wonderful powers to locate an 18-year-old girl who is missing. It's
said that the girl's father imported Mr. Geller for this purpose, but
the feeling is that the girl just went away on her own. An examination
of Geller's past performances in this type of work would not prove
encouraging to those who may be depending upon his divine abilities.
Interesting, isn't it...?
From geller-hotline Sat Mar 14 03:20:42 1992
Date: 13 Mar 92 22:26:48 EST
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: geller-hotline
Subject: The Geller almost-deposition
Well, the best-laid plans.... The 3-day stay in Washington was
supposed to bring about two depositions: first, Geller's deposition of
lawyers took all three days deposing me. Now, we have to set my
examination of Geller for some time in April.
I had a couple of shockers. First, I was presented with a statement
from Joe Dunninger's wife that implies I stole a $20,000 (a VERY
unrealistic price!) first edition of Nostradamus' "Centuries" (1672)
from her now-deceased husband. I can't tell you how that hit me. The
copy I have was bought and paid for from California, and there's a
provenance available for it. I have the cancelled check, etc., so I've
no problem. But the preposterous, insulting suggestion that I robbed a
man I so loved, is more than I can believe. That book, which I bought
to prepare my last book, "The Mask of Nostradamus," is now up for
sale, but I can't part with it until this ridiculous thing is settled.
Then, I was shown a letter from a former best-friend of mine who has
joined the Geller camp and now denies an observation of Geller's
methods that he had, until quite recently, supported. I've really been
betrayed on that score.
But, the entire episode was made into a success, not only by my rather
excellent lawyer, but by the fact that Penn & Teller each showed up in
turn in Washington to show their continued support and co-operation. I
was just about in tears seeing them there, doing their best to assure
me of the friends I have who are standing by me. I was given shelter
by Chip and Grace Denman, two loving people who have always been there
when I needed them.
Bob Steiner reports that the James Randi Fund is continuing to receive
contributions, and that, too, is cheering to me. However, if any of
you folks out there know of pro bono legal help I can get in the
Baltimore area, I can sure use it. I've still a pending suit there
that needs legal representation. It's important.
I'm confident, after hearing the proposed attack of the other side and
seeing my lawyer in action, that we'll win this case. In fact, I've
never had any doubts. I'll keep you all informed, of course.
Cheers! JR
From geller-hotline Sat Apr 4 17:13:11 1992
Date: Sat, 4 Apr 92 17:13 EST
From: geller-hotline (Chip Denman)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: More on the D.C. Deposition of Geller
[Chip Denman is the President of the National Capital Area Skeptics,
and as Randi mentioned in his own description of the event (already
posted to this list) one of the people who provided significant moral
support. Thanks to Chip for this very interesting side light on
Geller's behavior during the deposition.]
Other than Randi and his attorneys, Penn, Teller and I were the only
ones who were around for the depositions. Unfortunately, none of us
were permitted by Mr. Geller to sit in on the actual proceedings.
When Mr. Geller arrived on our first morning, he dashed out of the
elevator, grabbed my hand and introduced himself warmly. "Hi, I'm
Uri!" Of course, he recognized Penn and gave him a hearty handshake
and a big smile. The fellow could have had a great career in retail
sales.
Once the depositions began, there was little to do. Mr. Geller seemed
to have trouble sitting still; even the receptionists were commenting
on his constant flitting in and out of the closed conference room.
Other folks associated with the law firm where this was taking place
would drop by just to catch the latest tidbits. Clearly this case is
not exactly the norm for Washington. On the rare breaks, Randi seemed
alternately disgusted by the various insinuations and renewed with
determination to see this mess through to its proper conclusion.
Of course, I wasn't inside to actually see it, but I understand that
things were livened up a bit when Randi, in making a point about the
simple nature of certain tricks, vanished a pen or pencil from the
table. That story even got a small mention in the Washington Post.
The next and final morning, Randi & I were there alone. Once again,
Randi's attorney asked permission for me to sit in; again it was
denied. But just before things got underway, Mr. Geller came out and
apologized to me up, down, and sideways for having to exclude me.
Right.
I mostly sat out of sight--but within earshot--of the reception area.
(I took advantange of the forced confinement to write a talk that I
was to give at Johns Hopkins on Spiritualism and psychical research.
There are some interesting parallels here to the 19th century.) I
could hear Mr. Geller coming and going, looking for his lunch, etc. I
wondered what would happen if I made myself more visable, so I took my
computer and moved to the outer area. Sure enough, on his next trip
through Mr. Geller sat down on the sofa beside me to chat. He wanted
to know ALL about me. Where did I live? Did I use computers in my
work? Do I ever do outside consulting? I had the distinct impression
that he REALLY wanted to know who the hell I was and whether I was
perhaps an expert digging up useful bits o' information. I suppose
the vibes just weren't clear that day.
As Randi has already said, the 1 1/2 days turned into 3 of Randi being
deposed. There was no time left to turn the tables. As things wound
down on the last day, Paul Kurtz and Barry Karr were there, getting
ready for their turn the next day. We stepped into a side room to
chat about the whole affair. What a surprise to find Mr. Geller,
literally ear to the door, every time we looked into the hallway!
Chip Denman
President, National Capital Area Skeptics
for whom I'm not speaking.
NCAS >encourages critical and scientific thinking
>serves as an information resource on extraordinary claims
>provides extraordinary evidence that skeptics are cool
From geller-hotline Sat Apr 4 17:21:42 1992
Date: Sat, 4 Apr 92 17:21 EST
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: Geller in Budapest
Recently, super-psychic Uri Geller was in Budapest at the request
of a rich Hungarian whose 18-year-old daughter went missing 8 months ago.
Geller was asked by the girl's father to help the Hungarian police find
her. Geller arrived there in a great flurry of publicity and after
visiting with the girl's family for 72 hours, he made a number of
statements, all unsupported, about how and when the "kidnapped" girl
would be found, the names of the supposed kidnappers, and various other
vague impressions.
Some of the statements reported to me by friends in Budapest, were
quite interesting. Accoding to them, Geller said that the girl was
either alive or dead, that she was either in Hungary or outside, that if
she was outside the country she could be in Brazil -- or in Austria, and
that he would come back to Hungary if he gets further impressions.
When the great psychic then returned home to England, he was
interviewed by the London Daily Star and got front-page coverage on what
appeared to be his astounding success, under the headline, "URI HUNTS
KIDNAP BEAUTY," "Geller uses mystic powers in a kidnap riddle" and
"GOLDEN NEEDLE IN A HAYSTACK." Geller is referred to as a "psychic
detective." Said Uri to the Daily Star, "The trip was a success. We got
there after conventional methods failed." The article was illustrated
with color photos of the heiress in provocative glamor poses.
Those in the scientific and skeptical community in Budapest who
heard about the Daily Star piece, were astonished at the differences
between Geller's version of his visit and what had actually taken place.
On March 18, the Hungarian newspaper "Esti Hirlap" (Evening News) ran a
front-page article titled, "URI'S HUNT: Why do the English see the
Hungarian police as stupid?" The newspaper even reproduced the Daily
News article.
I've had a translation of the article done. It is highly
critical in nature, effectively comparing Geller's claims with the
actualities of his visit, and it ends with an astute observation that,
"The gullible will believe anything."
JR
PS: I'm now told that my essay WILL appear in TIME next week. This
time, it's almost positive.....?
From geller-hotline Mon Apr 6 16:26:19 1992
Date: Mon, 6 Apr 92 16:26 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: Isaac Asimov
[While not strictly on the subject of geller, Asimov was a great
leader of the skeptical movement and certainly an enemy of the
irrationality Geller represents. I felt all readers of this list
would be interested in reading this tribute to Asimov from James
Randi. Apologies to all those who feel it might be inappropriate. sdb]
The news came this morning that Asimov has died. His passing has
to be a loss to the community of skeptics, and I feel that I should share
with you a few observations on the phenomenon he represented.
In recent months, Dr. Asimov suffered greatly from depression.
He'd undergone a triple bypass operation some two years ago, and I'm told
that depression often follows that procedure. He'd given up writing and
even corresponding with friends. My last card from him says merely, "I'm
very ill, and unable to become involved in new projects." That was very
unlike Isaac.
A prodigious talent, he possessed the ability to express clearly
and concisely the beauty of science and technology while also sweeping us
away with grand, fabulous scenarios set on imaginary planets in remote
and wonderful galaxies. Isaac probably wrote more lucidly to express
science to the layman, than any other person we can think of. Everything
from the Sun to the Bible came under his analytical eye and was the
better for the experience. All of us were certainly well served by our
teacher.
He had an ego. A prodigious ego. But I've often said that the
man had a perfect right to it. He was paradoxical in some respects;
while he freely wrote of faster-than-light space vehicles streaking among
the stars, he had a life-long fear of flying here on Earth, and could
often be found standing in New York's Grand Central Station consulting
train schedules, rather than at an airport.
Years ago, when I timidly wrote him to ask for an introduction to
one of my first books, he graciously replied by postcard (his favorite
form of postal communication) and merely asked how many words would be
required. Having just seen Isaac on a television interview in which he
used a triple redundancy ("Some authors only write one book or poem, but
it becomes an eternal classic for all time"), and in a feeble attempt at
pulling his side-burns, I wrote back. "Perhaps," I said, "one who uses
such figures of speech might not be capable of writing an introduction
for my new book!" Almost instantly a postcard response was before me.
"Then tell me, sir, what horse's ass, when he wished to say, `The
unkindest cut,' would say instead, `The most unkindest cut of all'?" I
surrendered the field quickly, having been unwise enough to attempt
fencing with Zorro.
The man will always be with us through his books. That is his
immortality; he can never be truly gone from among us. And, for all we
know, that fear of flying may not have kept him from now soaring among
the nebulae and perhaps chasing down an interesting comet for closer
examination. Thank you for being here, Dr. Asimov, and sharing your wit
and wisdom with us all. We cannot forget you.
JR
From geller-hotline Mon Apr 13 04:23:01 1992
Date: Mon, 13 Apr 92 04:22 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: Wednesday deposition...
I'll be arriving in NYC Tuesday to attend our deposition of Geller that
starts Wednesday. We've assembled a long list of authorities who have
colorful opinions of UG's "powers," and a number of scientists who were
actually deceived by him and are now aware of it. The big question about
all this is, when are Geller and his lawyers going to get real? There is
no way that I can see for him to win this case, and I'm a bit puzzled
about why he thinks he can win. My essay in this week's TIME magazine has
already caused some excitement (I don't yet know if it showed up in the
international edition) and I expect a lot of flack from it. The Natural
Law Party in the UK (the Mahareshi's political arm), I'm informed, did
zero in the election. Doug Henning, running in Blackpool, came in fourth
in a group of four candidates. Not bad. JR
From geller-hotline Sat Apr 25 03:42:03 1992
Date: Sat, 25 Apr 92 03:41 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: The Geller Deposition
My deposition of Uri Geller took place April 15-17th. It was to continue
over the following Monday, but I picked up a New York bug and was laid
up, unable to attend. As expected, when we asked Mr. G to demonstrate his
wonderful powers, he was unable to do so because there were not enough
sympathetic persons in the vicinity. We were denied the satisfaction of
witnessing, at long last, proof of his abilities. Sigh.
However, very interesting information was developed during the question-
ing, and we videotaped the entire proceedings.
At the close of the Friday session, Mr. G introduced us to his family,
though I was on the telephone at that time and unable to meet them.
The lawyer for CSICOP also questioned Mr. G for some period of time.
I really don't know what the next step is in this ongoing drama. However,
I've had overtures from three different PBS programs concerning coverage
of the entire adventure. Also, a major publisher is now discussing a
contract for a book based on my TIME magazine essay of April 16.
According to Bob Steiner, the James Randi Fund is doing well.
I'm off to speak in Baltimore on April 30th, in NYC May 1st, and then to
Frankfurt, Germany, and Sweden, Finland and Norway. I'll return here May
26th. I'm at MIT on June 9th. JR
From geller-hotline Sat Apr 25 03:42:17 1992
Date: Sat, 25 Apr 92 03:41 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: News from Hungary...
I've received a report from Hungary that the father of the "kidnapped"
girl, 18-year-old Helga Farkas, the one Geller was asked to locate, has
now offered the entire ransom money (about US$250,000) for information
about her whereabouts. It was specifically stated, I'm told, that
Geller's information was not helpful. That, inspite of all the fuss made
in the UK newspapers about his efforts. The Hungarian police have
refused to re-open the case. JR
>From geller-hotline Wed Apr 29 01:50:26 1992
Return-Path: <geller-hotline>
Date: Wed, 29 Apr 92 01:50 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: Timex...
I've been informed that the Geller suit against Timex, brought by him two
years ago for the use of an actor doing spoon-bending in one of their
commercials, has been dismissed. Out of four suits he has brought, that's
three down and one to go. Also, the Hungarian millionaire in Budapest is
now offering the "ransom" (US$250,000) to all comers who can add anything
to the case. It would appear that Mr. Geller's efforts weren't very
useful there, since the police have officially refused to re-open that
case. More anon, from Europe.
JR.
From geller-hotline Thu May 28 00:00:22 1992
Date: Thu, 28 May 92 00:00 EDT
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
Subject: Returned...
I've just returned from Germany, Sweden, Finland and Norway, and I'm
TIRED! All (with one exception) lectures were well-organized, well-
attended and well-publicized. A very successful trip indeed. Met new
friends along the way, too. Mr. G. is now apparently concerned about
the magicians' signatures I'm gathering after I show a tape of one of his
performances. Well, I've now been givenan additional tape (from Norway)
which is equally interesting. Mr. G. has informed me that he believes he
has some sort of "copyright" on these tapes, though I'm unable to deter-
mine any such fact. He dislikes my showing them, which indicates a
possible interest in an attempt to prohibit me from doing so! Interesting!
I'll be lecturing at MIT this coming 9th of June. JR
From geller-hotline Sat Jun 13 10:00:23 1992
Date: Sat, 13 Jun 92 10:00 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: Update
My recent trip to Europe was very productive. I obtained the
opinions of many more professional magicians and academics concerning the
nature of Mr. Geller's performances as seen on videotape, and Mr. Geller
is now actively trying to prevent me from referring to these tapes.
Perhaps he is now aware that there is exceedingly interesting evidence
there....
While I have your electronic ears, I'd like to put to rest a new
claim being made by certain detractors. Those of you who know me well
will find no new information in what follows, but there are some of you
who might not be as well informed.
The opposing camp has reached 'way down into the sewer, even
deeper than before, and they've come up with the accusation that I'm an
active anti-Semite. I hardly need assure you that they would pull off
the miracle of the age if they could produce one shred of evidence to
support that claim, but like any undenied rumor, this could perhaps color
the picture among those who don't know better. (Incidentally, this new
accusation includes CSICOP, the Humanist movement and all those who have
been supporting me.)
My record speaks for itself; I have never, ever, held any
racial, religious, ethnic or color bias of any sort, and all of my life I
have fought vigorously against bigotry. Years ago, when I really needed
work, I refused contracts to work in the Deep South where audiences were
segregated. More recently, I was offered big money to work in South
Africa, but I refused the employment because of apartheid. My major book
was dedicated to my Jewish landlady who was my second mother, and kept me
going when things were really tough; I revere her memory greatly. I am
angered and dismayed that in their desperation my enemies have chosen to
try this scurrilous tactic; their inability to produce a legitimate case
is perhaps best shown by this latest move.
My newest book, "Conjuring," is in the final stages of proofing,
revision and other necessary evils. I've just returned from lecturing at
MIT, where I gained further academic support in this battle, and I worked
on two PBS presentations that will be seen soon (I'll keep you informed).
Those TV programs will strike the enemy rather hard, I believe, and
further our cause yet more.
I look forward, along with all of you, to the appearance of the
next Penn & Teller book. If you thought "Cruel Tricks" was powerful, you
ain't seen nothin' yet, as they say. These guys are certainly prominent
allies in this battle. I can't wait....
Factum est. JR
From geller-hotline Sun Jul 5 17:04:39 1992
Date: Sun, 5 Jul 92 17:04 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: Fund Clarification, Request for Info, Update
Hello friends! I've been away for a while, and it's been weeks since
I've been able to issue a bulletin or even a simple update. Sorry about
that, but other issues have interfered. It seems, according to those
close to the Geller vs. Randi case, that Mr. Geller is now without the
same legal representative. It's not quite clear exactly why, though I've
heard various explanations. I'll update you when it becomes clear.
CSICOP, it appears, is in an excellent position legally. Mind you, I'm
not doing badly either, and I can smell victory. The problem is, as
always, that it is going to take many months to arrive at a resolution of
the case, both for CSICOP and myself. The Fund needs to be kept up, and I
will remind you that administrator Bob Steiner awaits further welcome
contributions at:
The James Randi Fund
c/o Robert Steiner, CPA
P.O. Box 659
El Cerrito, CA 94530
PLEASE: Do not send any contributions directly to me, and make them
payable to The James Randi Fund, not to me. Mr. Steiner informs me of
each contributor, and I try (boy, do I try!) to thank each person
personally. I think the ultimate thank-you will be when I am able to
announce the unconditional victory over the opposition.
I must make one thing quite clear: The latest issue of Skeptical
Inquirer has a plea for contributions to the CSICOP Defence fund. My
name is mentioned in the text as one of those who has been sued, and
though I am quite, 100%, sure that there was no intention for it to be
suggested that my defence would be supported from that fund, several
persons have called to point out to me that possibility. I am NOT being
defended from that fund, but I must tell you that individuals within
CSICOP have personally, privately, contributed to The James Randi Fund
(JRF), and their concern has been acknowledged by me. But, similarly, I
do not wish any false impression to exist, that CSICOP receives funds
from the JRF. The two funds are quite separate. Understood?
I've been getting data input from all over, and I'm being made aware that
Mr. Geller has been denounced in very colorful and strong terms many
times in the past. I can use any such references to continue building my
case, so please send me any and all such information. Also, his claims
to fabulous wealth and income (I have many of these) are useful. You can
send all information to:
James Randi
12000 NW 8th Street
Plantation, FL 33325-1406
Since Mr. Geller launched his nonsensical claim about my "anti-Semitism,"
I've received welcome support from several Jewish organizations that are
aware of the truth about all that. One group within Israel are more than
just annoyed about it, and have promised strong action. To date, the
Geller camp has announced that I am:
an anti-Semite
a communist
a former jailbird
a child molester
a pornographer
a thief.
Alas, I admit that I'm only a conjuror, a skeptic, an escape artist, an
actor, a writer, an amateur archaeologist and an amateur astronomer.
Nothing there at all that would interest the National Enquirer. What
fascinates me is that I've NEVER been accused of anything to do with
drugs - using, selling or possessing any illicit substance! Maybe that's
being saved for a big surprise up ahead. Nothing, but nothing, would
surprise me....! I find that these folks are capable of any manner and
degree of character assassination.
I found out the source of the accusation that I stole a rare first-edition
of The Prophecies of Nostradamus from a now-deceased friend. The discovery
was no surprise at all, since this person has been involved in other brave
attempts to destroy my reputation. But, since adding this latest sin to
the list, our slimy little villain has make the ultimate error. When the
present matter has been resolved, we'll drop on this apostle like a ton
of stuff.
Stay tuned! JR
From owner-geller-hotline Sat Jul 11 13:45:14 1992
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 92 13:45 EDT
From: owner-geller-hotline (Scott Ballantyne)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: Good news for CSICOP!
The judge in the Geller vs. Randi et al case has just granted CSICOP a
dismissal with sanctions. This means that CSICOP may be able to
recover their legal costs, and perhaps much more. Even though Randi's prospects
are improved by this he still needs our help. (CSICOP's case is concluded,
but his must continue if we are put the final nail into this kind of
harassment of free thinking/free speaking skeptics.)
But it does look like the system works. And I know we are all happy
for the folks at CSICOP.
Scott
---
{owner-geller-hotline@ssr.com}
From geller-hotline Fri Aug 7 00:29:56 1992
Date: Fri, 7 Aug 92 00:29 EDT
From: geller-hotline (James Randi)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: The latest...
Things are quiet on the Geller vs. Randi front. Mr. Geller's lawyer is no
longer working for him due to a problem. My lawyers are working hard,
with surprises to come shortly. The James Randi Fund is sagging a bit, as
victory seems more apparent. CSICOP is exultant, since they can now
anticipate being granted specific sanctions by the judge. I hope they can
recoup their losses. I have a TV crew coming in here tomorrow, interviews
and photo dates next week. This case, and another investigation I have
coming up, will make a lot of news. The Italian TV people have granted me
rights to show tapes of Mr. Geller at work, tapes in which certain very
interesting things show up. The claim had been made that copyrights to
the video material would prevent my using these tapes. Not so. I'm free
to use them. The co-operation of the media has been very gratifying, and
a MAJOR television show will be doing a full hour on me and my battle.
I'm told that someone has been showing around a copy of the deposition
that Geller did with me in Baltimore. Not a wise move! That material is
federally protected, at present. Someone will be hearing from me. So,
things are improving more every day. Thanks to all you folks who have
supported me so willingly, we can anticipate an earlier victory. Stay
tuned to this station! JR
From geller-hotline Tue Sep 22 02:11:25 1992
From: geller-hotline (James Randi -- Wizard)
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Date: 21 Sep 92 22:55:49 EDT
Subject: Update....
Today I was served with an action that Mr. Geller has been talking about
and promising for over a year. It involves a magazine article that
appeared in Japan years ago. I have responded to the court.
In his complaint, Uri Geller repeats part of a story that appeared in a
UK newspaper. This he offers as an example of the kind of thing he
claims I have been saying about him and about others. I am said to have
referred to him as, "that insufferable psychic phoney." About another
matter, he quotes me as saying:
How I wish I had been on earth when that other psychic phoney,
Jesus of Nazareth, had been around. How I envy the Roman soldiers
who rammed the nails through that psychic phoney's wrists. How
I'd have relished to have done the job myself. How I wish I'd
been there to jab the life out of that psychic phoney as he hung
on that silly cross with that spear.
I need not tell you that all that quoted above came from another person,
not me. I believe it shows just how desperate Mr. Geller is to destroy my
reputation.
Michael Shermer, in California, reported that he was called by Geller
last week, and was reminded by the caller that both he and Geller are
family men. What that is all about, I'll allow you to decide.
Mr. Geller is once more represented by legal counsel, after his former
lawyer was suspended from practice. The same lawyer is also handling the
Byrd case.
All for now. Life gets more and more interesting every day. JR
From geller-hotline Thu Nov 22 21:41:12 1992
From: James Randi<geller-hotline>
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Date: 22 Nov 92 21:41:12 EST
Subject: Recent stuff...
I'm told that UG did not show up for a scheduled deposition in Miami last
week for the Prometheus case, the reason given being that his lawyers were
suddenly too busy with another important case of theirs. The notice was
delivered 24 hours before the arranged hour, by fax.
There has been a further important development that is not yet complete.
I will report on that as soon as I have further information. This item is
very encouraging indeed.
I just returned from Russia, where I was filming tests of "psychics." I
have to report that the "psychics" there are no more "psychic" than those
here, and the parapsychologists are just as naive as you might suspect.
"Biogravity" is the big discovery for them. It takes place when spoons
stick to their faces. I kid you not. Real scientists are agog over this
wonder. Spoons seem to figure very largely in parapsychology, don't they?
On Thanksgiving Day (Nov. 26, for our overseas friends) I'll be seen on
the Larry King Live show. Do tune in.
JR
From geller-hotline Tue Dec 18 1992 18:18:38
From: James Randi - Wizard <geller-hotline>
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Date: 18 Dec 92 18:18:38 EST
Subject: The latest....
Hi folks! Things continue to improve. (1) Mr. G's lawyer in Florida (in
the case he has against Prometheus, et al) faxed in a message recently,
just 24 hours before a scheduled deposition of his client, saying that
the deposee would not be appearing, (2) Mr. G has just made overtures in
that case in the UK, suggesting that he would settle for a much lower
award, and (3) I have Mr. G scheduled for a deposition in NYC on Feb.
2/93. Very soon, interesting things will begin to happen.
Meanwhile, I have just signed another book contract. The present book,
"Conjuring," has received excellent reviews (except for one magician who
did not show up in the book) and in 1993 I will be appearing on at least
two major, major TV programs that will feature the Geller saga. Another
major TV news/investigative show will examine the Geller matter, as well.
I'll be doing a major lecture tour in Australia in '93, too. So, great
coverage is coming up and that can only end up going in the direction of
unravelling this whole thing in our favor. I'm much encouraged.
The ONLY down note is that The James Randi Fund is running low, and in
need of a major transfusion. If anyone out there knows of an agency that
might promote this cause, I'm ready to do some heavy listening.
JR
From geller-hotline Tue Dec 18 1992 19:13:38
From: James Randi -- Wizard <geller-hotline>
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Date: 18 Dec 92 19:13:38 EST
Subject: The Prometheus case in Florida.
I've just been informed that Geller has entirely dropped the case against
Prometheus et al in Florida. Just recently, he was saying he'd settle for
$50,000 instead of millions, and now he wants to drop it all.
Verrrry interesting! J.R.
From geller-hotline Wed Dec 26 1992 15:32:10
From: James Randi --- Wizard <geller-hotline>
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Date: 26 Dec 92 15:32:10 EST
Subject: The latest lawsuit....
UG's lawyers have just announced his intention of yet another pending
action against Prometheus Books, and another against Skeptical Inquirer,
both in Wisconsin. "Yond Cassius...." JR
From geller-hotline Mon Dec 31 1992 19:11:50
From: James Randi---Wizard <geller-hotline>
Date: 31 Dec 92 19:11:50 EST
To: broadcast-geller-hotline
Subject: 1993
To all my friends who have offered me their support and encouragement in
the past year, my very best, sincere good wishes for a great 1993. It's
the year in which the Good Guys will win. I have inside information.
JR