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Witchcraft shop casts its spell

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By MICHELE SAGER

msager@tampatrib.com

Published: July 1, 2009

TOWN 'N COUNTRY - While many independently-owned shops are struggling to stay afloat in these tough economic times, business is booming for one newly opened spot.

The Magickal Happenings witch shop recently opened its doors to offer services from the witchcraft world. Tina McCabe opened the shop on Memorial Highway after a year of steady business at the Oldsmar Market.

"I've always had these gifts but didn't really pursue them until recently," McCabe said. "My family was very supportive and I told myself I would give it a try for one year to see how it goes."

McCabe gave readings, brewed potions and made other magical products and demand grew. Now, she has a permanent shop where she can provide her services, teach classes and display her full line of products.

"My business has grown as people search for answers in these tough economic times," she said. "They want guidance and solutions."

The store's inventory ranges from cosmic to kitschy. Items include perfumes that offer protection, crystals that heal, brooms and DVDs featuring pop culture witches such as Samantha from the television show "Bewitched."

One of her popular items is the conjure bag filled with a custom-made mix of herbs that bring about the items you desire most, such as love, protection and justice. McCabe also makes a money powder customers can sprinkle on items to bring financial gain. She regularly sprinkles the powder around her shop to bring prosperity.

But McCabe said she is careful when casting spells.

"You have to be very specific in your desire," she said. "You don't want to broadly ask for money and end up getting an inheritance because a loved one died."

Donning a long, flowing black dress, a collection of bracelets with meaning and crystals around her neck, McCabe makes no apologies for her way of life and understands some people will always think she is crazy or a scam artist.

McCabe charges $35 for a reading and offers to tape it for no additional charge.

"I don't discuss my religion and I listen to all Gods," she said. "I'm not out to scam people, I just want to help them. That's why I keep my prices reasonable and have also offered money back if not satisfied, which has only happened once."

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Magickal Happenings

WHERE: 5915 Memorial Highway, Tampa

HOURS: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday

INFORMATION: (813) 786-3167 or www .magickalhappenings .com

Reporter Michele Sager can be reached at (727) 451-2344.

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