Ghost Trackers Newsletter - Vol 11 No 1 - 1992 02

Magazine Overview

Title: Ghost Trackers Newsletter
Issue Date: February 1992
Volume: 11
Number: 1
Publisher: Ghost Research Society

This issue of the Ghost Trackers Newsletter serves as the official paranormal publication of the Ghost Research Society. Founded in 1980 by Martin V. Riccardo, the society is dedicated to researching the paranormal, with a particular focus on ghosts, hauntings, and life after death. The newsletter itself began publication in September 1982 and is edited by Dale D. Kaczmarek, the society's President.

Membership and Society Information

The Ghost Research Society offers various membership levels, including Regular ($12.00/year), Sustaining ($17.00/year), and Contributing ($22.00/year), each with increasing benefits. Regular members receive the newsletter, a GRS button, discounts, and a photo analysis service. Sustaining members gain the opportunity to assist with research and attend field excursions. Contributing members receive a newspaper clipping service for their state or country. Multi-year, Patron, and Lifetime memberships are also available. The society is actively seeking officers, State Coordinators, Field Investigators, and Area Research Directors.

Back issues of the newsletter are available for purchase by both members and non-members. The GRS also solicits photographs, newspaper clippings, articles, personal encounters, and anecdotes for publication, with full credit given to the contributors. All submitted materials become the property of the GRS.

Current Chain of Command

The leadership of the Ghost Research Society is detailed, with Dale D. Kaczmarek serving as President & Editor, Martin V. Riccardo as Founder of GRS, Howard E. Heim as Research Director, and Tom Perrott as Area Research Dir. Regular Columnists include W. Ritchie Benedict, Rosemary Ellen Guiley, and Maurice Schwalm.

Inquiries and subscriptions should be directed to the Ghost Research Society at PO Box 205, Oaklawn, IL. 60454-0205, or by phone at (708)425-5163.

Editors Page

The editors express well wishes for the New Year and note the mild Chicago weather. They extend thanks to various individuals for clippings, computer programs, books, photographs, and Christmas cards. The newsletter is now being published using Word Perfect due to persistent software issues with previous desktop publishing programs like Gem Desktop Publisher and Express Publisher. The editors apologize for delays in publishing submitted articles with pictures, as they await the full functionality of their desktop publishing setup. They also highlight the 'Ghost Newsletter' published by Rosalee Bailey Tipton as a notable publication.

New lifetime, contributing, sustaining, and patron members are welcomed, including Richard Holifield, Jr. (lifetime), John Dean, Katie Block, Karen Hughes, M.J. Richardson, Lynnda Kratovil, Charles B. Young, and Debbie Wojciechowski (contributing), Roy Smith, Patricia Boyce, Tom Hayes, Alan Stradtler, Margaret Pucci, Claudette Johnson, Paul McMurray, Kathleen Tully, and Mary Smesseart (sustaining), and David Noppe from Canada (patron).

Society Growth and Meetings

The society reports a rapid growth in membership, with 20 new members and 9 renewals since the last newsletter. There is a noted increase in actively involved members (Contributing and Sustaining) compared to those who only read the newsletter. Upcoming meeting dates at the Oaklawn Public Library are January 18th, March 21st, and May 16th, all from 1pm to 3:30pm. Attendance is strongly encouraged, especially for Sustaining and Contributing members, as some meetings are mandatory prior to field excursions.

Sustaining and Contributing members who wish to attend field excursions must fill out an active research application and include a recent photograph. Spouses can be added to field excursions for an additional $10.00 fee.

The society's ghost tours are expanding to include southwest and western suburbs. Several members, including Bill and Rochelle Zaszczurynski, Mike Shannon, and Julie Greenholdt, have been promoted to Field Investigators due to their dedication and involvement.

Article: A Very Personal Ghost

Author: Beverly C. Jaegers

This article explores the concept of spirits and ghosts from a scientific and psychical research perspective. The author, Co-Chairman of the Research Committee of the St. Louis Society for Psychical Research, discusses the challenges of researching the paranormal within a scientific framework that often requires measurable evidence. Psychical research, however, aims to study these phenomena without necessarily proving or disproving their existence.

The author recounts a specific ghost hunt at a large old residence in the mid-City area. During the investigation, the team documented several peculiar occurrences. In the living room, a misty, irregularly outlined shadow, estimated to be seven feet tall, was observed on a wall, unaffected by light or furniture arrangement. Additionally, an old rocker chair in the same room produced physical sensations akin to a heart attack, followed by heat and cold, and a feeling of being watched. The house owner later revealed that the chair belonged to an elderly man who had died in it.

On the third floor, the author experienced a strong sensation of being watched and observed a shimmering blob of brownish mist, approximately five feet high, which was identified as a male apparition. This apparition disappeared before detailed impressions could be gathered. The author notes an unusual phenomenon where sound waves seemed unable to penetrate the room where the disturbance occurred. The apparition was described as possibly a gardener or servant.

Further corroboration came from an acquaintance whose fiancé, a police patrolman, had investigated reports of strange noises and lights at the same house over a twenty-year period. The house on Pine Street, where the investigation took place, was scheduled for demolition.

Article: The Phantom Photographer

Author: Maurice Schwalm

This article presents a bizarre case involving a family with both sane and crazy ghosts. The author initially reports on a house where a teenage boy was allegedly raiding the refrigerator for 10 years and disappearing through walls, and a woman claimed to be pushed down stairs by unseen hands. Historical research into the area revealed no prior tragedies on the property.

The investigation focused on a teenage daughter who had unhappy 'Romeo and Juliet' dreams. It was discovered that two youths known to the family had died in a car crash around the time the family moved into the house. The blond youth was believed to have exploited the daughter's unhappiness for an astral plane romance, while a dark-haired boy was trying to shield her. An 8mm film made by the boys showed a stop-motion shot of the dark-haired boy.

On a second visit, the author took flash photos and discovered a spectacular ectoplasmic profile formed on a lamp, attributed to the dark-haired boy. The blond youth appeared only as blue strokes, suggesting his ectoplasmic presence had been altered or deleted.

Book Review/Recommendation

The issue includes a recommendation for the "Quest for the Unknown" book series published by Reader's Digest. This 18-volume series, released in November 1991, offers detailed information on topics ranging from poltergeists and prophetic dreams to Stonehenge and shamans.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are paranormal investigation, ghost sightings, and the challenges of researching unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry and detailed documentation of reported experiences, encouraging active participation from members in research efforts. The society emphasizes the importance of collecting and analyzing data, while also fostering a community for those interested in the paranormal.

This issue of Strange Magazine, identified as Issue #7, features a collection of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, ghost stories, and related topics. The cover highlights "UAC'92 Washington D.C." as a major event, alongside a list of articles within the magazine, including "The Mystery of the Mono Grande," "The Ultradimensional Mind," and interviews with notable figures in the field.

The Silent Shipmate

Authored by Rev. Speaker Gerald A. Polley, this story begins with the author discussing his articles in "Ghost Trackers" and a listener's tale of a ghost saving a life. The narrative centers on a young man working on a fishing vessel who finds his shipmates suffering from food poisoning. He is aided by an elderly man who guides him in steering the ship through rough weather. Upon reaching shore, the young man recognizes the spectral helper from a faded portrait in the captain's home as his deceased father, who had promised to always look after the family. The story suggests divine intervention and a father's enduring love.

Grandpapa

Written by B.M. Perry, this personal account details the author's experiences with the ghost of "Grandpapa" in a house built by her husband's grandfather. The house, built in 1910, was a grand cottage designed as a gathering place for artists. Grandpapa, a tall, gaunt man with piercing blue eyes, died shortly after his wife. The author and her family moved into the neglected house, and soon began experiencing strange occurrences. A plumber reported seeing the ghost, and the author herself had a chilling encounter in the attic. Later, she confronted the apparition, demanding the return of her Japanese prints, which were found. The ghost, described as a tall, whitish, vapor-like form with menacing blue eyes, appeared to her and her children, causing them to feel cold and frightened. The author speculates on the ghost's motives, wondering if he was seeking help or if her opening the house disturbed his solitude.

Ghosts Of The Tribes

Authored by Rev. Maria D'Andrea, this article discusses how modern activities can leave sensitivities open to the past and spirit world. The author suggests that ghosts are found in varied environments and that one needs to be open and pay attention with sensitivity rather than intellect. She recounts an experience on a highway where she saw translucent native American spirits. She explains that these spirits are on another plane but still connected to nature. D'Andrea emphasizes that individuals have control through free will and that spirits are bound by Divine Providence to answer questions. She advises using psychic protection, such as prayer, before attempting contact and encourages using intuition to gain information, particularly in areas known for being old native American sites.

Old Ironsides

This is a poem submitted by W. Humphries. It describes a derelict gymnasium, "Old Ironsides," which was destroyed years ago. The poem contrasts the current state of the gym – a gaping void with furniture stacked to the walls, a visible basement with old fixtures – with its past as a vibrant place for gym classes and basketball. Despite the decay, the poem ends with the sound of a ball bouncing on the floor, suggesting a lingering presence or memory.

Book Reviews

The "Book Reviews" section features a review of "True Ghost Stories Of Our Own Time," compiled and edited by Vivienne Rae-Ellis. The reviewer notes that the book compiles real-life ghostly experiences from various individuals, changing the editor's own attitude towards ghosts. The book is divided into four sections: "Varieties of Ghost," "Ghosts Hear Smelled, Felt and Perceived," "Hauntings," and "Poltergeists." The review highlights the diverse locations of hauntings and mentions a chapter on "timewarps." It also recounts a specific story from Mrs. S.M. Woodyatt about an encounter with spectral soldiers in chain armor and mentions the legendary Borley Rectory.

Advertisements and Submissions

The issue includes advertisements for "STRANGE MAGAZINE" subscriptions, offering a 4-issue subscription for $17.95 and sample issues for $5.95. It also promotes the "UAC'92 Washington D.C." event, detailing registration fees and contact information. Another advertisement is for "TOTAL ECLIPSE! Illustrated Journal of the Occult, Bizarre and Unusual," with subscription rates and sample issue information. The "National UFO Museum" also advertises its membership options and quarterly journal, "Notes From the Hangar." Submissions for the magazine are noted from Rev. Speaker Gerald A. Polley, B.M. Perry, Rev. Maria D'Andrea, and W. Humphries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are paranormal experiences, particularly ghost stories and hauntings, with a focus on personal accounts and the exploration of unexplained phenomena. There is an underlying stance that these experiences are real and warrant serious consideration, as evidenced by the personal narratives and the inclusion of expert opinions and book reviews that validate the study of the paranormal. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in the occult, bizarre, and unusual, encouraging readers to be open to different realities and intuitive input.

This issue of the Ghost Trackers Newsletter, dated October 5, 1991, is Volume 12, Issue 12. It focuses on paranormal phenomena, featuring reviews of several books and announcements related to the field.

Book Reviews

ESP, Hauntings and Poltergeists by Loyd Auerbach

Reviewed by W. Ritchie Benedict, this book is described as a comprehensive volume for ghost hunters. It covers various aspects of paranormal investigation and phenomena. The reviewer notes that the book is well done and will amaze skeptics. It includes sections on initial questions for investigations, patterning of disturbances, phenomena, interactions, organizations, and further reading. The book is rated 7 out of 10.

Vampires Among Us by Rosemary Ellen Guiley

Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this book is praised for its thorough research into the evolution, history, and current trends of vampires. It delves into areas such as psychic vampires, who can drain energy without blood, and dream vampires. The reviewer finds the book to be well-written and agrees with the explanation of psychic vampires based on their own research. The book includes information on organizations and publications related to vampires and is rated 8 out of 10.

The Ghosts of Tidewater, The Ghosts of Richmond, and The Ghosts of Williamsburg by L.B. Taylor, Jr.

Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this trilogy of regional books by L.B. Taylor, Jr. explores haunted locations in Virginia. Taylor, a native Virginian with a background in journalism and NASA, has written extensively on paranormal subjects. The reviewer purchased these books during a research trip and found them invaluable for identifying haunted locations. Autographed copies are available directly from the author. The collection is rated 9 out of 10.

Written Request

Catharine Bevona from Scarsdale, NY, is seeking ghost stories, legends, and personal accounts of strange happenings from the Long Island area for her college journalism club. She requests that stories about the Amityville Horror be excluded due to negative publicity. Anonymity will be maintained upon request.

Memo From Hal Speer

Hal Speer writes about a chapbook titled "Sunshine over Arkham," which explores the possible inspiration for H.P. Lovecraft's fictional city of Arkham. The booklet is described as a light-hearted account of a quest for Arkham and is available for $3.50.

When The Past Is Present

This section calls for stories about the weird and supernatural in Brooklyn for a book by J. Giles O'Brien. It encourages readers to share tales of ghostly encounters or unexplained phenomena in their homes or neighborhoods. Anonymity is guaranteed.

New Series: Quest for the Unknown

Reader's Digest is publishing an 18-volume book series titled "Quest for the Unknown," which aims to provide an authoritative and objective look at the unexplainable. The series covers a wide range of topics, including UFOs, near-death experiences, reincarnation, and more. Each volume is written in consultation with experts and features illustrations. The first three volumes are "Unsolved Mysteries of the Past," "UFO: The Continuing Enigma," and "Life Beyond Death." Future volumes will include "Mindpower" and "Charting the Future." The series is published in January 1992, with each volume costing $16.98 plus shipping.

The Gate

"THE GATE" is described as an entrance into the world of the paranormal, featuring factual articles and occult-related newsclippings. A sample copy can be obtained for $2.00.

Classifieds

The classified section includes advertisements for various paranormal-related publications and services:

• Voices From Spirit Magazine: Offers bi-monthly issues, tarot card readings, curse removals, and spirit guide readings.
• Aries Inc.: Presents books by Bevy Jaeger on topics like haunted house investigations, psychometry, and Ouija boards.
• The Journal of the International Fortean Organization: Offers a General Index to the INFO Journals (1967-1986).
• Psychic Pathways: A newsletter for those interested in quality of life and knowledgeable consumers.
• The Eagle's Spirit: A monthly newsletter seeking New Age writers, poets, and artists.
• Touchstone Newsletter: Covers positive "new age" topics, including reader participation, barter, and spells.
• Pan-Am Indians: Offers a free sample copy of a 16-page Indian tabloid newspaper covering news, history, humor, magic, and genealogy.

1992 Spring Astro-Rama VI Conference

Details are provided for the 1992 Spring Astro-Rama Conference, a weekend event for astrologers, metaphysicians, and the general public. The conference will be held at the Holiday Inn Hudson on Route 8 from April 24-26, 1992. It features workshops, luncheon lectures, open forums, a market place, and a reading room. Special attractions include spirit portraits and a "Flappers' Revue" banquet. Registration information, including pricing for various packages and early bird discounts, is detailed. Contact information for inquiries in Ohio and Pennsylvania is also provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ghosts, hauntings, poltergeists, vampires, UFOs, and other paranormal phenomena. The newsletter appears to be a platform for sharing information, reviews, and announcements within the paranormal and New Age communities. The editorial stance is one of openness to exploring unexplained phenomena and providing resources for those interested in these subjects.