The Bent Spoon - Volume 1 No 10

Magazine Overview

Title: The Bent Spoon
Issue: 1
Volume: 1
Date: May 21st, 2011

This inaugural issue of The Bent Spoon positions itself as a unique publication in the paranormal media landscape, aiming to bridge the divide between fervent believers and staunch skeptics. Unlike traditional media that often caters exclusively to one group, The Bent Spoon seeks to create a dialogue by critically examining claims from both sides. The magazine's mission is to foster an environment where believers and skeptics can engage in conversation, offering in-depth analysis, interviews with investigators and thinkers, and a critical perspective on paranormal phenomena and skeptical viewpoints alike. The tagline, "The Bent Spoon. Where extraordinary claims meet ordinary explanations," encapsulates its core objective.

Editorial Team and Contributors

The magazine is created by Bobby Nelson and Nicholas Callis. The contributing writers for this issue include Bobby Nelson, Nicholas Callis, Jason Korbus, Kenny Biddle, and Myron Getman. Editing duties were handled by Jason Korbus, Amy Sroczynski, and Stephanie Bohn. Nicholas Callis is also credited with the cover design and illustrations.

Article 1: "Hemispheres & Toilet Drains"

This article tackles a common "mythconception": the idea that the Coriolis effect influences the direction in which water drains in sinks and toilets. The author explains that while the Coriolis force is a real phenomenon that affects large-scale systems like weather patterns by deflecting moving objects (to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere), it is far too minuscule to have any impact on the small scale of a sink or toilet. The article cites "The Atmosphere: An Introduction to Meteorology" by Lutgens, Tarbuck, and Tasa (2006) to emphasize the scale difference between cyclones and typical drains. The author concludes that the direction of water drainage is determined solely by "plain old ordinary structural conditions," such as the shape and levelness of the fixture. The author shares a personal anecdote of testing this by filling sinks and toilets, observing that they drained in opposite directions, confirming the myth's falsehood and finding satisfaction in discovering the truth.

Article 2: "Well, It Only Took A Year"

This piece, written by Bobby Nelson, revisits the magazine's first issue's topic: Harold Camping's prediction of the end of the world on May 21st, 2011. The author criticizes Camping, a radio evangelist, for using flawed biblical interpretations to predict the date, noting his previous failed predictions in 1994 and before 2000. The article highlights the sad reality of people who quit their jobs, spent their life savings, and even engaged in extreme actions, like a woman who slit her children's throats to save them from the predicted doomsday. Camping had claimed that a massive earthquake would occur at 6 pm on May 21st, followed by the true believers being called to heaven, and the final destruction of the world on October 21st, 2011. When the predicted events did not occur, Camping explained it away as a "spiritual rapture" and that the end would still happen on October 21st. The author expresses disappointment in Camping's lack of a genuine apology, his cognitive dissonance, and his self-serving justifications, such as claiming the campaign brought the Bible's message to billions. The author argues that Camping manipulated people's fears and irrationality, and suggests that if Camping were truly remorseful, he would reimburse those who lost money supporting his campaign.

Article 3: "The Mad Skeptic: Wakpominee Bigfoot"

This article, presented as a personal narrative, details the author's journey from being a believer in cryptozoology, specifically Bigfoot, to becoming a skeptic. The author recounts an experience from 1992 while working as an area director at a summer camp in Upstate New York. During a Fish and Wildlife Management merit badge class, the author and students were near a lake where the waterfront staff had reported hearing strange noises and experiencing what they described as "rock throwing" the previous night. The author, initially skeptical but open to evidence, was exploring the area for geological interest and potential Bigfoot signs. While examining a rock outcrop, the author discovered what appeared to be a Bigfoot footprint. This discovery, combined with the waterfront staff's story, led to the conflation of the two events, with the Bigfoot being blamed for the "rock throwing" to intimidate the staff. The author notes that this experience, while initially seeming to validate Bigfoot theories, ultimately contributed to a more critical examination of such phenomena over time.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The Bent Spoon's editorial stance is clearly skeptical, yet aims for a balanced approach that respects believers while critically evaluating extraordinary claims. The recurring themes in this issue include the debunking of popular myths and misconceptions (like the Coriolis effect's influence on drains), the critical analysis of failed prophecies and religious extremism (Harold Camping's doomsday predictions), and the personal exploration of paranormal phenomena from a skeptical perspective (the Bigfoot encounter). The magazine champions critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and a willingness to question established beliefs, whether they stem from paranormal conviction or scientific dogma. The overarching goal is to encourage open-minded inquiry and a more rational understanding of unexplained phenomena.

This issue of The Bent Spoon, dated February 19, 2012, focuses on skeptical investigations and critical analysis of paranormal claims and conspiracy theories. The magazine features articles that aim to debunk alleged supernatural events and highlight logical fallacies in popular beliefs.

Article: Bigfoot Sighting at 'Ape Bay'

The author recounts an experience at a Scout camp where a Bigfoot sighting was reported. He describes an "expedition" to the site where a large group of staff and campers looked for evidence. However, the author concludes that no Bigfoot evidence was found. He presents three possible scenarios: a genuine Bigfoot, a hoax, or misinterpretation of natural events. He dismisses the hoax theory as improbable due to the effort involved and the unlikelihood of staff participation. The author then focuses on the natural explanation, identifying beaver activity as the likely cause of the noises and perceived "footprints." He explains that beavers slap their tails on water when startled, which can create sounds mistaken for other phenomena. The "footprint" is attributed to a natural indentation disturbed by an animal. The author posits that the excitement and "mass hysteria" among the scouts and staff led to the misinterpretation of these natural events, fueled by confirmation bias.

Article: The Joe Rogan Experience and Conspiracy Theories

This article by Jason Korbus discusses an episode of Joe Rogan's podcast featuring Sam Harris, a prominent atheist author. The author expresses surprise that Rogan, known for his commentary on mixed martial arts and stand-up comedy, also entertains conspiracy theories, including the moon landing hoax, Kennedy assassination, and 9/11 Truther claims. The article highlights Harris's attempt to counter Rogan's conspiracy beliefs by explaining logical fallacies. Harris introduces the concept of "cascade logic," where a lack of evidence is compensated by claiming a larger number of people are involved in a cover-up. Harris argues that the larger a conspiracy, the harder it is to maintain secrecy due to the difficulty of aligning personal motivations and the tendency for individuals to reveal information. He suggests that "incompetence" is often a more plausible explanation than elaborate conspiracies, citing the 9/11 attacks and the lead-up to the Iraq War as examples where government incompetence, rather than a false flag operation, was the more likely cause. The author notes that Rogan seemed genuinely impressed by Harris's arguments and that the conversation, which lasted nearly three hours, covered various topics including free will and psychic phenomena.

Article: Selma Mansion Investigation

Written by Kenny Biddle, this article investigates a video of a door slamming shut at the Selma Mansion. The author examines two versions of the video, one from the Pennsylvania Underground Paranormal Society (PUPS) and another from "Ghost Detectives." He notes that both videos are edited and skip significant time periods. Biddle's initial impression is that the door movement is caused by air flow within the house, a phenomenon he has observed many times. He points out that the mansion has numerous structural issues, including broken windows and gaps, which would allow for significant air flow. He questions the claims made by the paranormal investigation teams that there were no open windows or drafts. Biddle conducted his own investigation at the mansion, measuring openings and observing air movement. He found significant gaps in windows and shutters, confirming his hypothesis that air pressure differences were the cause of the door slamming. He argues that the paranormal teams' claims about the house being sealed were incorrect. The author concludes that the video shows a door manipulated by natural air flow and pressure, and that the event is a case of misinterpreting data rather than evidence of a paranormal presence.

The Bent Spoon: Feedback and Submissions

This section is a call for feedback, criticisms, compliments, and article submissions for The Bent Spoon. It announces a new section called "The Open Forum," intended to foster dialogue between true believers and skeptics, with the believers' viewpoints presented alongside skeptical rebuttals. Inquiries and submissions can be sent to [email protected].

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism, critical thinking, and the debunking of paranormal claims and conspiracy theories. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational explanations, scientific reasoning, and the logical analysis of evidence. The magazine aims to educate its readers on how to approach extraordinary claims with a critical mindset, emphasizing that natural phenomena and human error are often more likely explanations than supernatural or conspiratorial ones.

Title: The Bent Spoon
Issue Date: March 2012
Volume: 2
Issue: 15

This issue of The Bent Spoon magazine features a collection of articles and interviews that delve into various controversial topics, including social issues, paranormal claims, and conspiracy theories. The magazine adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards many of the subjects it covers, while also providing a platform for alternative viewpoints.

Articles

Kirk Cameron's Dark Age Thinking

This article by Jason Korbus critically examines actor Kirk Cameron's public statements regarding homosexuality. The author argues that Cameron's views, particularly his assertion that being gay is 'unnatural' and 'destructive' to society, are not only hateful but also lack factual basis, citing the prevalence of homosexuality in the natural world. The piece refutes Cameron's reliance on historical arguments and biblical interpretations, suggesting his stance may stem from personal issues. The author concludes by reminding Cameron and his supporters that while he has freedom of speech, he does not have freedom from criticism.

The M.O. of Loren Coleman

Bobby Nelson writes a critical piece on Loren Coleman, a figure in cryptozoology, accusing him of using 'cheap' and 'shameless' tactics to gain website traffic and promote his books. Nelson argues that Coleman exploits real-world tragedies, such as the death of Osama Bin Laden, the Penn State events, the Chardon school shooting, and the Tucson shootings, by linking them to cryptozoology without any factual basis. Nelson provides examples of Coleman's blog posts that connect these events to cryptids, deeming this practice 'dishonorable' and a sign of a lack of integrity. The author expresses his belief that Coleman's actions are a deliberate attempt to capitalize on public interest in sensational events, regardless of their relevance to cryptozoology.

Banal Communication

Nicholas Callis recounts his experience attempting to interview a paranormal investigator who claimed to be part of a 'science based research group.' Callis details the investigator's evasiveness when asked to explain his methods and how he differentiates between paranormal and anomalous data. The investigator also employs the Sherlock Holmes quote, "When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth," which Callis critiques as a potential argument from ignorance. Callis further questions the investigator's use of physics and quantum mechanics in relation to paranormal research and his definition of 'pseudoskepticism.' The article highlights a communication breakdown and animosity between Callis, his co-author Bobby Nelson, and the investigator, leading to Callis being blocked.

Interview with Sherry Shriner

This section features an interview conducted by Bobby Nelson with Sherry Shriner, an author and radio host who discusses her beliefs about various conspiracy theories. Shriner claims to be a mouthpiece for God, revealing truths through Bible Codes and her research into the 'Alien Agenda' and the NWO. She believes in an ancient energy called Orgone that can combat evil beings and crash UFOs. Shriner interprets mass animal deaths as apocalyptic events, possibly linked to the NWO or Planet X. She describes 'lizards' as Reptilians who possess and control world leaders, and UFOs as their means of travel. Shriner also discusses her belief that certain historical events, like the JFK assassination and 9/11 attacks, were not as commonly perceived but were orchestrated by these entities. She explains that Orgone blasters are a defense mechanism against these beings and can dissolve chemtrails. Shriner posits that people who believe government-sponsored lies have their eyes closed to the truth and that her protection comes from the Christian God.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The Bent Spoon include skepticism towards paranormal claims and investigative methods, criticism of public figures for their controversial statements (particularly regarding social issues), and an exploration of various conspiracy theories. The magazine's editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, challenging unsubstantiated claims and exposing what it perceives as manipulative tactics. There is a strong emphasis on questioning authority, whether it be public figures, paranormal investigators, or government narratives. The publication encourages readers to think critically and not accept information at face value, particularly when it comes to paranormal phenomena and societal issues.

This issue of THE BENT SPOON, presented under the banner "PAREIDOLIA OF THE MONTH," features a Q&A interview with Sherry Shriner and Bobby Nelson, alongside a medical image presented as "Pareidolia of the Month." The content delves into esoteric topics, primarily focusing on Orgone energy and alleged paranormal phenomena.

Interview with Sherry Shriner and Bobby Nelson

The interview begins with Bobby Nelson inquiring about the toxicity of Orgone water. Sherry Shriner asserts that it is not toxic and is comparable to Holy Water, capable of burning 'evil beings.'

Nelson then questions the empirical evidence for Orgone's effectiveness, particularly concerning 'lizards,' and whether it is subjective. Shriner responds by referencing the '4th dimension' and 'astral dimensions,' claiming that those who can perceive these realms confirm Orgone's power, which she also states is revealed in the 'Bible Codes.'

Shriner describes the social reaction to wearing an Orgone pendant in public, noting stares and disdain. She further claims that people possessed by demons or 'soul scalped by the lizards' react negatively to Orgone, experiencing agitation, hot flashes, and anger. She provides examples of public figures like Benny Hinn and Obama reacting this way.

Nelson brings up a previous conversation about a 'base when giants are housed' in Lima, Ohio, which Shriner allegedly discovered. Shriner explains that Lima, Ohio, repeatedly appeared in the Bible Codes, prompting further research that was confirmed by a friend who knew of the base and provided its general location.

When asked about her plans for Lima, Shriner states her intention to 'saturate it with Orgone Blasters and other Orgone devices,' as these entities 'can't survive or thrive in Orgoned areas.'

The interview concludes with Nelson thanking Shriner for her time.

Pareidolia of the Month

This section features a grayscale CT scan labeled "Convert RGB US Non-Color to Monochrome, Force Owner CSA-DICOM." The caption identifies the image as a 'CT scan of a testicular mass' originating from Dr. G. Roberts of the School of Medicine at Queens University, Kingston.

The Bent Spoon Cover

The third page displays the title "THE BENT SPOON" in large white lettering against a dark, star-filled background. The central image is an abstract, orange-hued representation of a head with large, dark eyes, reminiscent of an alien or a stylized face, with a small constellation pattern near the chin.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary themes explored in this issue are Orgone energy, its purported supernatural and defensive capabilities, and the existence of hidden entities such as demons, 'lizards,' and giants. The content leans heavily into conspiracy theories and alternative beliefs, particularly those related to the Bible Codes and extradimensional phenomena. The editorial stance appears to align with the promotion of Orgone devices and the validation of these unconventional claims, as evidenced by the interview format and the presentation of the medical scan under the 'Pareidolia of the Month' title, suggesting a tendency to find patterns or significance in unrelated phenomena.