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Indianapolis Star
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indianapolis Star
Is the haunted doll Annabelle to blame for a plantation fire? The internet says yes
Is a demonic doll touring the U.S. to blame for the mishaps in Louisiana? That's what the internet is saying, which has led to a ghost tour company receiving multiple death threats. Ghost City Tours hosted and sold tickets to the public to see Annabelle, the haunted Raggedy Ann doll that inspired the movie "Annabelle," which is a part of the "Conjuring" universe. "It was nice to have our own weird event," said Tim Nealon, the founder, president and former CEO of Ghost City Tours. However, despite the success of the sold-out event, the internet began to blame the escape of 10 inmates from a New Orleans jail and a fire that destroyed the Nottoway Plantation on Annabelle's visit. Ghost City Tours teamed up with "Annabelle's Caretakers," an extension of the now-closed Warren Occult Museum, while they were touring the U.S. with the allegedly haunted doll. The doll was originally on display at the Warrens' Occult Museum, which permanently closed to the public in 2019 after Lorraine Warren, one of the original owners, died, according to Atlas Obscura. Annabelle's tour stopped in several states and cities, including the Ghost City Tours office in New Orleans from May 13 to May 14, where fans of the paranormal were able to visit Annabelle and learn more about her origin story. The event sold out immediately. "It was literally sold out within seconds," said Nealon. "I mean, I felt like it was some big-name concert." While some people took to social media to joke about the coincidence of Annabelle's visit, others didn't think it was a joke at all. "I did not think people were taking it seriously, (because) I kept seeing jokes about it on Instagram and TikTok," said Nealon. "But, I didn't realize people were out here like, actually thinking that this was legit." Some people online are "absolutely convinced that Ghost City Tour is responsible" for the plantation fire and the inmates' escape, according to Nealon. People are even sending them death threats. "I could never imagine sending anybody a death threat at all, let alone over a (expletive) haunted doll," said Nelon. Annabelle visited San Antonio, Texas, where the doll was displayed at the annual San Antonio Psychic & Spirit Fest from May 17-18. In 1970, a mom gave her daughter, Donna, a 28-year-old nursing student, the now-infamous doll, according to the New England Society for Psychic Research, NESPR. She'd purchased Annabelle from a hobby store. Donna and her roommate, Angie, noticed weird paranormal activity happening around the apartment, which began to escalate. Legend has it that the paranormal activity only became worse. The doll was thought to be inhabited by the spirit of a young girl, but Donna soon believed it was actually possessed by something "demonic and inhuman." The doll was later handed over to Ed and Lorraine Warren, a couple famous for collecting paranormal objects and artifacts.
Indianapolis Star
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Indianapolis Star
'That ain't no haint': 'Sinners' movie references evil spirit. But what is it exactly?
Turns out "Sinners" is more than just about vampires. Viewers have some thoughts about Ryan Coogler's subtle reference to another supernatural entity in the film, released April 18. While a select few might have had an inkling about what Annie (Wunmi Mosaku), a Hoodoo practitioner and herbalist, meant by "haint," others were completely in the dark. One viewer even thought Annie uttered the word "Hank" as she tried to determine the cause of Stack's (Michael B. Jordan) and Mary's (Hailee Steinfeld) death-defying transformation. Annie determines, through context clues, that her friends have turned into vampires, not haints like she previously hypothesized. Though haints are not the focus of "Sinners," the spectral beings are deeply rooted in Southern folklore, not unlike the film, set in Mississippi in the 1930s. Here's what to know about haints, including a compilation of viewers' genuine reactions to Coogler's subtle reference. What is a haint? A haint, for those unfamiliar with African spiritual traditions, refers to "evil spirits who escaped their human forms at night to paralyze, injure, ride (the way a person might ride a horse), or even kill innocent victims," Atlas Obscura reported in January 2020. Though haints are only mentioned by name once in "Sinners," some viewers noticed the way Coogler wove in the use of "haint blue" a shade of blue used by enslaved Africans and later by the Gullah Geechee to combat haints and "boo hags," in Annie's home and wardrobe throughout the film. "She's hoodoo, she's voodoo. She's of African diasporic tradition,' Ruth E. Cater, the film's costume designer, told lifestyle publication 21Ninety. 'She's every part of where our origin story led us in terms of our religious practices.' Haint blue was believed to trick haints into believing they had stumbled into water, which they were unable to cross or the sky, which led them farther away from their victims, according to Atlas Obscura. The color was first derived from the dye produced on indigo plantations across the South Carolina coast, Atlas Obscura reported. Some painted their homes in haint blue, while others hung blue glass bottles in trees to trap the evil spirit or spirits lurking in the shadows, according to Atlas Obscura. Not all Gullah Geechee, however, identify with the color's use. While the practice of using haint blue to ward off evil spirits might not be as common, the color has bled into the mainstream, with major paint companies like Sherwin-Williams and PPG Industries, Inc selling paint inspired by the shade. Viewers go on 'deep dive' after haint reference in 'Sinners' While some viewers knew what a haint was before they saw the film, others were intrigued enough by the reference that they proceeded to do some research on the evil spirt and for some, its connection to vampires. Those who were able to make sense of the reference in the moment remembered when they first heard about haints from relatives and the significance of "haint blue" in the film. Either way, those who heard the subtle reference were impressed by Coogler's attention to detail. Below you will find a compilation of posts that encapsulates the conversation surrounding haints in "Sinners."
USA Today
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
'That ain't no haint': 'Sinners' movie references evil spirit. But what is it exactly?
'That ain't no haint': 'Sinners' movie references evil spirit. But what is it exactly? Show Caption Hide Caption 'Sinners': A vampire wants to crash Michael B. Jordan's party Cornbread (Omar Miller) isn't acting like his old self when trying to re-enter the party in Ryan Coogler's period horror movie "Sinners." Turns out "Sinners" is more than just about vampires. Viewers have some thoughts about Ryan Coogler's subtle reference to another supernatural entity in the film, released April 18. While a select few might have had an inkling about what Annie (Wunmi Mosaku), a Hoodoo practitioner and herbalist, meant by "haint," others were completely in the dark. One viewer even thought Annie uttered the word "Hank" as she tried to determine the cause of Stack's (Michael B. Jordan) and Mary's (Hailee Steinfeld) death-defying transformation. Annie determines, through context clues, that her friends have turned into vampires, not haints like she previously hypothesized. Though haints are not the focus of "Sinners," the spectral beings are deeply rooted in Southern folklore, not unlike the film, set in Mississippi in the 1930s. Here's what to know about haints, including a compilation of viewers' genuine reactions to Coogler's subtle reference. 'Sinners' movie: Don't let them in! What to know about the vampire invitation featured in 'Sinners' What is a haint? A haint, for those unfamiliar with African spiritual traditions, refers to "evil spirits who escaped their human forms at night to paralyze, injure, ride (the way a person might ride a horse), or even kill innocent victims," Atlas Obscura reported in January 2020. Though haints are only mentioned by name once in "Sinners," some viewers noticed the way Coogler wove in the use of "haint blue" a shade of blue used by enslaved Africans and later by the Gullah Geechee to combat haints and "boo hags," in Annie's home and wardrobe throughout the film. "She's hoodoo, she's voodoo. She's of African diasporic tradition,' Ruth E. Cater, the film's costume designer, told lifestyle publication 21Ninety. 'She's every part of where our origin story led us in terms of our religious practices.' Haint blue was believed to trick haints into believing they had stumbled into water, which they were unable to cross or the sky, which led them farther away from their victims, according to Atlas Obscura. The color was first derived from the dye produced on indigo plantations across the South Carolina coast, Atlas Obscura reported. Some painted their homes in haint blue, while others hung blue glass bottles in trees to trap the evil spirit or spirits lurking in the shadows, according to Atlas Obscura. Not all Gullah Geechee, however, identify with the color's use. While the practice of using haint blue to ward off evil spirits might not be as common, the color has bled into the mainstream, with major paint companies like Sherwin-Williams and PPG Industries, Inc selling paint inspired by the shade. Viewers go on 'deep dive' after haint reference in 'Sinners' While some viewers knew what a haint was before they saw the film, others were intrigued enough by the reference that they proceeded to do some research on the evil spirt and for some, its connection to vampires. Those who were able to make sense of the reference in the moment remembered when they first heard about haints from relatives and the significance of "haint blue" in the film. Either way, those who heard the subtle reference were impressed by Coogler's attention to detail. Below you will find a compilation of posts that encapsulates the conversation surrounding haints in "Sinners."
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Rand McNally's 2026 Road Atlas: A Delicious Celebration of America's 250th, Route 66's 100th and a Special Collaboration with Atlas Obscura
CHICAGO, April 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rand McNally, the most complete and most trusted source for maps and navigation, introduces its 2026 Road Atlas, the 102nd edition of this iconic publication. This year's atlas commemorates the 250th anniversary of America's founding and the 100th anniversary of Route 66, inviting travelers to explore the nation's diverse culinary landscape. Discover America's unique regional cuisine through 11 curated culinary road trips, spanning the country from New England seafood to Southern barbecue, Tex-Mex flavors of the Southwest, and Colorado's craft breweries. Each road trip includes a local celebrity chef's 'Chef's Day Off' itinerary, offering insider tips for maximizing your experience in their city. It's a guide to the heart and soul of America, one delicious bite at a time. "We are excited to offer Rand McNally's best of class road atlas that guides travelers and encourages them to explore the heart of America through its incredible cuisine and amazing vistas," said Rand McNally Chairman Joseph Roark. "This edition celebrates the cuisines and flavors that make our country unique, and we've packed it with insider tips and recommendations to make every road trip a memorable experience, especially as we recognize the significant anniversaries of America and Route 66." For the first time ever, Rand McNally has partnered with Atlas Obscura inviting them to ride shotgun and offer their signature off-the-beaten-path picks and unexpected discoveries for each trip, as well as an exclusive itinerary of unique Route 66 eateries, honoring the highway's century-long legacy. "Collaborating with Rand McNally on this special edition was a natural fit for Atlas Obscura," said Marc Haeringer, Director of Publishing and Print Media at Atlas Obscura. "We're honored to share our passion for uncovering hidden gems and unexpected stories, especially along the iconic Route 66. This atlas is a celebration of the unique places and flavors that make America so fascinating." Key Features of the 2026 Rand McNally Road Atlas: 11 culinary road trips that explore America's diverse regional cuisine Chef's Day Off recommendations that give an insider's view on the best local spots Atlas Obscura's offbeat picks and unique discoveries plus their exclusive Route 66 Roadside Eats itinerary The most up-to-date maps, plus more detailed city inset maps, and more travel planning information than competitors In a special collaboration, artist Marianna Fierro has created a delightful, limited-edition illustrated cover for a select number of Midsize Easy to Read Road Atlases All atlases are designed and printed in the USA and are available at our Amazon store, e-commerce outlets, bookstores, and other retailers. Visit for more information on all Rand McNally Road Atlas products. About Rand McNally – Chicago-based Rand McNally is the most trusted source for maps, directions, and travel content for more than 165 years. Learn more at About Atlas Obscura – Atlas Obscura is the definitive platform for discovering the world's hidden wonders, inspiring curiosity and exploration around the globe. 2025 Publishing Holdco, Inc., d/b/a Rand McNally Publishing. All rights reserved. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE RAND MCNALLY PUBLISHING Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
01-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Where did April Fools' come from? The history, origin and some April Fools' Day deals
The day that some pranksters look forward to all year long is here. It's April Fools' Day! April Fools' Day is an unofficial holiday centered around pulling pranks on your friends and family that falls on the first day of April each year. No one knows for certain how or where the holiday truly began, but there are some theories. Another fun, lesser-known thing about April Fools' Day, is that it brings freebies with it. A few chain restaurants have some April Fools' Day-only deals this year. Do you dare to trust them? Here's the history of April Fools' Day and which restaurants are running April Fools' Day price cuts instead of pranks today. Today, Tuesday, April 1, isn't just the first of the month – it's April Fools' Day 2025. Someone pull a fast one on you today? How April Fools' Day got started and why According to the Encyclopedia of American Folklore, the exact origins of April Fools' Day are uncertain – it most likely comes from multiple sources. April Fools' Day is most often attributed to France's switch from the Julian calendar, to the Gregorian calendar in the 1500s, according to The Library of Congress and the History Channel. 'In the Julian Calendar, as in the Hindu calendar, the new year began with the spring equinox around April 1,' the History Channel says. 'People who were slow to get the news or failed to recognize that the start of the new year had moved to January 1 and continued to celebrate it during the last week of March through April 1 became the butt of jokes and hoaxes and were called 'April fools.'' Another potential origin is a New Year's tradition from the Middle Ages called the 'Feast of Fools,' which predates France's switch to the Gregorian Calendar. In medieval churches, hierarchy was inverted every New Year's Day and lower members of the clergy would swap duties with the higher-ranking priests and bishops. Outside of the church doors, chaotic celebrations would carry on. You might recognize this idea from Disney's 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame' movie. 'Officially banned in the 15th century, the Feast of Fools had its origins 300 years before, in the 1100s, and continued as a tradition well into the 16th century,' Atlas Obscura says. 'It was memorialized in church documents condemning its excesses and in paintings depicting streets full of merry chaos. It appears in Victor Hugo's famous 19th century novel, 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame,' when Quasimodo is swept up in the festivities and crowned King of Fools.' Another theory says that April Fools' Day could have gotten its start in ancient Rome, with Hilaria, which was a day of joy marking the end of an annual festival that honored the goddess Cybele. These aren't the only April Fools' Day origin stories and legends, but they're among the most popular and well-known. April Fools' Day freebies: Dunkin' has free coffee, more deals from Burger King, Cheesecake Factory April Fools' Day is commonly misspelled as 'April Fool's Day.' If you're trying to keep from looking like a fool (pun intended) in your Instagram or TikTok caption today, stick with the plural possessive version when you're spelling it out. After all, it isn't just a day for one fool — it's a day for all of them! If you're looking to soften the blow of being the butt of someone's joke today, there are some April Fools' Day deals that might ease the pain. Dunkin', Burger King and Cheesecake Factory are all celebrating with price cuts for their rewards members, instead of pranks. Free Dunkin' coffee for rewards members - 'Do you trust us? Because you definitely should,' Dunkin's April Fools Day Instagram post said. According to the post, today only, Dunkin' Rewards members can open their rewards app and enter promo code 'ThisIsNotAJoke' for a free hot or iced coffee of any size (offer good while supplies last). Free onion rings for Burger King rewards members - Burger King Royal Perks loyalty program members can get a free order of any size onion rings with a purchase of $1 or more on April Fools' Day only. To get the deal, you have to order with the Burger King app or online. Mystery freebie with Cheesecake Factory loyalty program - Cheesecake Factory's loyalty program members have a free mystery reward waiting on them in their app today, which can be anything from a free slice of cheesecake with your purchase, to one free slice per month for the rest of 2025, to discounts or dine-in credits of up to $25. Anyone who signs up for Cheesecake Factory's loyalty program today, April 1, will get the 'Slice, Slice Baby' reward, which is a free slice when you buy one to either dine-in or take out. Personalized Oreos at half-off: No loyalty program membership required for this one. If you have a graduation, birthday or any celebration coming up soon, you can save on a unique (and edible) custom party favor today only. Oreo is giving customers 50% off on personalized OreoID cookies ordered Tuesday from the Oreo website. Just use code APRIL by midnight on Tuesday, April 1. Contributing: Mike Snider, USA TODAY; Michelle Spitzer, FLORIDA TODAY This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: April Fools' Day 2025 pranks, history freebies, food deals April 1
