Ghost Trackers Newsletter - Vol 11 No 2 - 1992 06

Magazine Overview

Title: Ghost Trackers Newsletter
Issue Date: June 1992
Volume: 11
Number: 2
Publisher: Ghost Research Society
Editor: Dale D. Kaczmarek

This issue of the Ghost Trackers Newsletter, the official paranormal publication of the Ghost Research Society, delves into various aspects of the paranormal, with a particular focus on haunted locations and personal accounts of ghostly encounters. The publication aims to collect, analyze, and research paranormal phenomena.

Editorial and Society Updates

The "Editors page" by Dale D. Kaczmarek expresses enthusiasm for summer and its opportunities for outdoor research. Kaczmarek thanks numerous individuals for their contributions, including Wanda Bloomfield, Tom Perrott, Andy Jarett, Robert Swindell, Howard Heim, Michele Fehr, Mari Huff, Mike Shannon, Maurice Schwalm, and Jeanne Youngson. He also mentions a visit from Rosemary Ellen Guiley and Jeanne Youngson, who participated in a Vampire Fan Forum sponsored by Martin V. Riccardo.

A significant portion of the editorial addresses issues with renewal checks being made out incorrectly, emphasizing that all checks and money orders must be payable to "Dale Kaczmarek" to avoid lost revenue. The newsletter reports a steady growth in membership, with 24 new members and 17 renewals since the last edition, noting an increase in Sustaining and Contributing Memberships.

The issue also highlights "The Wild Places," a newsletter published by Kevin McClure, providing subscription details.

Current Chain of Command

The newsletter lists the key personnel of the Ghost Research Society, including Dale D. Kaczmarek (President & Editor), Martin V. Riccardo (Founder of GRS), Howard E. Heim (Research Director), Tom Perrott (Area Research Dir.), Mary Huff (Secretary), and Regular Columnists W. Ritchie Benedict, Rosemary Ellen Guiley, and Maurice Schwalm.

GRS Appointments and New Members

William Hauck of Sacramento, California, is congratulated for becoming the California State Coordinator. Hauck, who appeared in a documentary titled "Mysteries Of The Gods" with William Shatner, will be assisted by Robert L. Swindell, the Area Research Director for California. Dave Miller has been appointed as a Field Investigator for Ohio. The newsletter welcomes new Contributing members: Dave Miller, Chris Woodyard, Bryan Buckel, Jessica Albieri, and JoAnne Lee. New Sustaining members include Roberta Vacker, Donna Hilmers, David Goodwin, Lisa Pizano, and Robert Fairman.

Book Release: "Dead Zones"

The long-awaited book "Dead Zones," edited by Sharon Jarvis and printed by Warner Books, is announced as available. Dale D. Kaczmarek personally contributed four stories to the collection, including accounts of the Orland Hills Poltergeist, the Ozark Spooklight, and haunted battlefields in Tennessee. The book costs $4.50, with an additional $2.50 for shipping and handling. Autographed copies are available upon request.

"THE GATE" Publication

"THE GATE" is described as a publication offering factual articles and newsclippings on scientific and occult paranormal topics from around the world. A sample copy can be obtained for $2.00 from P.O. Box 43516, Richmond Heights, Ohio 44143.

Article: A Ghost-line Phone-in at The Sun

Written by Tom Perrott, this article recounts his experience participating in a "Ghost-line Phone-in" organized by The Sun newspaper. Perrott describes answering calls from readers who claimed to have had ghostly experiences or psychic problems. He notes that while some calls were frivolous, others were from genuinely distressed individuals. He shares two specific examples: a barman in Exmouth who heard footsteps and saw lights activated by unseen hands, and a housewife in Chichester, Sussex, who reported significant poltergeist activity, including exploding ashtrays, whistling, and levitation of objects. The article also mentions a case of a man whose sexual powers were allegedly impaired after a psychometrist examined his watch.

Article: The Haunted Hotels of Highway 49

Written by William Hauck, this article explores haunted locations along Highway 49 in California. It details the history and reported paranormal activity at:

• Vineyard House (Coloma, CA): Built in 1878, this mansion is reported to have ghostly manifestations, including apparitions of former prisoners and the original owner's wife, Louise, who allegedly kept her second husband chained in the cellar.
• Hotel Leger (Mokelumne Hill, CA): The specter of its founder, George Leger, is said to glide through the halls, and unexplained laughter has been heard from his former room.
• Sutter Creek Inn (Sutter Creek, CA): This inn is reportedly haunted by the ghost of State Senator Edward Voorhies, with phenomena such as objects being moved by unseen hands and a spectral figure appearing in the office.

The article also mentions the current owners of the Hotel Leger trying to dispel ghost rumors and a specific incident where a couple fled the hotel after hearing sounds of murder.

Author Biography: William Hauck

A biographical section details William Hauck's extensive background in Fortean studies, his work as Chief Editor of the Phenomena Group, and his contributions to various paranormal publications and journals. He has written scripts for documentaries and consulted on films, and has been a featured speaker at numerous conferences.

Advertisements

Two advertisements are included:

• ENIGMAS: A magazine published five times a year by Strange Phenomena Investigations (SPI), covering UFOs, poltergeists, spiritualism, and life after death.
• PSI REVIEW: A publication that includes articles on paranormal topics, reports on seminars, and condenses research papers from parapsychological journals.

Article: The Shopkeeping Ghost

Written by Maurice Schwalm, this article presents a case involving a "guardian angel" of a commercial property. The report comes from an associate named "Roger" who inherited a restaurant property near the University of Missouri at Kansas City. The property was leased to an ethnic restaurant chain with a lease-option to buy for $40,000. Roger's father, "Richard," allegedly communicated with Roger, suggesting a mistake would occur. In 1970, the manager accidentally set fire to the building, causing a total loss, which Roger saw as an opportunity to use the lease provisions against the tenants.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Ghost Trackers Newsletter consistently focuses on the investigation and reporting of paranormal phenomena, particularly hauntings and ghostly encounters in specific locations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging reader contributions and providing a platform for researchers and enthusiasts. The society actively seeks to expand its membership and engage in ongoing research, as evidenced by the detailed information on memberships and the listing of key personnel involved in various research capacities. The publication also serves as a promotional tool for related paranormal literature and other publications in the field.

Title: UFO Universe
Issue: Vol. 10, No. 1
Date: 1983
Publisher: UFO Universe
Country: USA
Price: $2.50

This issue of UFO Universe magazine presents a collection of articles exploring various paranormal phenomena, including UFO sightings, hauntings, and unexplained occurrences. The cover boldly proclaims "UFOs ARE REAL: THE EVIDENCE IS OVERWHELMING!".

Building Fire Incident

The first account details a building fire that occurred when decorative materials caught fire in a booth. The fire quickly spread, igniting the second story and ultimately consuming the entire building within an hour. The building owner, Roger, faced the aftermath, obtaining construction estimates and informing contractors of the total loss. The former manager expressed that a "damned runaway fire ruined everything." Roger eventually rebuilt the structure as a one-story building and subsequently dealt with various tenant issues, including one who refused to pay or vacate, leading to problems with the air conditioning unit.

Echoes From The Past At Leamington

Written by Michael Shannon, this article recounts the author's experiences and research into the paranormal at Leamington, South Carolina, an area with a history dating back to a pre-Civil War cotton plantation. The area, once home to lighthouses and military facilities, became a site of alleged paranormal activity after 1948, following a hurricane. The lighthouse keeper reported hearing bizarre noises such as footsteps and rappings. Teenagers visiting the abandoned lighthouse keeper's homes reported seeing a woman in a blue dress and one girl claimed to have been pushed down the stairs by a woman in blue. A theory suggests the "Lady in Blue" was the daughter of a lighthouse keeper who died in a hurricane in the 1890s, and who may have returned to the area. The author recounts a personal encounter in the late summer of 1982 with what he believes might have been the "Lady in Blue" during a nighttime visit to the lighthouse area with a friend, Bill Vayda. The experience involved strange phenomena including loud bangs, impenetrable darkness, an odd bluish fog, and a horrifying scream that silenced the rain. The author concludes that "something happened in Leamington--something that can't be explained."

The Clean Ghost Of Soho

Authored by Rosmary Ellen Guiley, this piece describes an experience at Hazlitt's, a hotel in Soho, London. Guiley defines "asports" as objects displaced by spirits. She recounts her stay where a small bottle of scented hand lotion disappeared from her dresser. Upon inquiring with the receptionist, she was told the hotel had a ghost that "seems to like to steal soaps and toiletries." The missing items, unlike some poltergeist effects, do not seem to be recovered. Guiley, an executive vice president of the International Society for the Study of Ghosts and Apparitions, notes this was her first encounter with an agent "stealing" an item.

Electromagnetic Disturbances And The Supernatural

David Goodwin, field captain and chief investigator for a paranormal research organization, discusses the correlation between unusual magnetic disturbances and the presence of supernatural entities. His teams use compasses to measure magnetic anomalies at haunted locations. One investigation noted a significant magnetic anomaly near a reported apparition. Goodwin acknowledges that physical factors like old wiring, piping, and geological iron deposits can also cause such anomalies, and his teams account for these during their investigations.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores unexplained phenomena, focusing on personal accounts and historical cases of hauntings, apparitions, and mysterious events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the paranormal, presenting evidence and experiences that suggest the existence of supernatural forces and unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs, ghosts, and poltergeists. The magazine aims to document and share these accounts with its readers.

This issue of the Ghost Trackers Newsletter focuses on paranormal phenomena, particularly electromagnetic disturbances and their potential implications, alongside a collection of book reviews on ghost stories and related topics. The publication appears to be a niche newsletter catering to enthusiasts of the unexplained.

Electromagnetic Disturbances and the 'Other Side'

The issue opens with a striking statement suggesting that electromagnetic disturbances could be the key to unlocking the 'Other Side,' urging scientists and investigators to pay attention when compasses spin without apparent reason. This submission is attributed to David Goodwin of Marquette, Michigan.

Visual Content and Local Interest

A photograph captioned 'Angles' by Joseph Saunders shows a view from beneath an old range marker at Palmetto Dunes near U.S. 278. The caption explains its historical use by ship captains in conjunction with a smaller light on the beach to navigate the Savannah Ship Channel before it was replaced by the Savannah Light offshore. The light itself is not open to the public.

Poetry Submission: 'Incubus'

A poem titled 'Incubus' is presented, submitted by Patricia K. Thorpe of Woodbridge, Virginia. The poem vividly describes a dreamscape filled with fire, ice, snow, fleeting veils, ghostly umbra, and a sense of walking among the dead.

Opinion Polls: Reader Feedback

This section features feedback from several readers:

• Paula Stanek from Downers Grove, Illinois, requests ghost photos and views on noteworthy strange events.
• Charles B. Young from Southampton, Pennsylvania, offers a critique, finding the publication 'home-spun' but good for light reading, giving it a 'B' or good evaluation.
• Bobbie Barth from Mt. Vernon, Illinois, expresses strong positive impressions, plans to purchase back issues, attend bus tours, and become a contributing member, also suggesting an article on Dug Hill Road in Jonesboro.
• Lynnda S. Kratovil from Lanham, Maryland, appreciates the newsletter's non-commercial nature and shares her experience teaching a ghost course for adolescents in Maryland, incorporating visits to historical sites like the Edgar Allen Poe house, Civil War battlefields, Fort McHenry, and Harpers Ferry.

Advertisement: Continent Dowsers

An advertisement for 'Continent Dowsers and Other Phenomena' announces a Dowsing School and Conference from June 18-21, featuring topics such as Nature Spirits, Power of Thought, Runes, UFOs, Chiropractic, Big Foot, Radionics, Healing, and Dowsing. Contact information for John, Robin, and Veronica is provided.

Book Reviews

The majority of the issue is dedicated to reviews of paranormal and ghost-related books:

• 'True Stories From the Great Ghost Hunter' by Elliott O'Donnell, edited by Harry Ludlum. Reviewed by Mike Shannon, this book is described as a straightforward collection of engrossing ghost stories and legends, including chapters on banshees, the 'Weeping Tomb of Kilmallock,' and personal encounters by the author. The reviewer highlights 'The Miller's House' and 'The Trees of Fear' as particularly interesting. The review notes the lack of an introduction, forward, or index as a drawback. It is rated 7 out of 10.

• 'Ghostwatch' edited by Prof. Colin B. Gardner. Reviewed by Mike Shannon, this book compiles hitherto unpublished accounts from the Institute For Psychical Research's scientific files, focusing on British cases since 1960. It presents 29 different cases, some with recent dates like 1987 and 1982. Locations mentioned include Britain, Los Angeles, Memphis, Riverside, California, Arizona, and Alberta. The reviewer notes the absence of illustrations and the potential for the book's format to add to its atmosphere. It is rated 7 out of 10.

• 'Haunted Ohio' by Chris Woodyard. Reviewed by W. Ritchie Benedict, this book is described as a regional ghost story collection. The reviewer notes that while well-written with a good index and references, it lacks exact addresses and illustrations, making independent investigation difficult. Chapters like 'The Phantoms of the Opera' and 'The Happy Haunting Grounds' are highlighted. It is rated 5 out of 10.

• 'More Haunted Houses' by Joan Bingham and Dolores Riccio. Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this book complements a previous work and is praised for its structure as a guide to haunted locations across the United States, broken down by geographic sections with detailed information. Locations vary widely, from forts and cemeteries to entire cities. The reviewer contributed to chapters on Haunted Battlefields of the Civil War and The Neosho Spook Light. It is rated 9 out of 10.

• 'Werewolf: A True Story of Demonic Possession' by Ed and Lorraine Warren with William Ramsey & Robert David Chase. Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this book details the exploits of demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren, focusing on the alleged demonic possession of William Ramsey. The reviewer finds it 'too hard to swallow' but interesting, noting the Warrens' expertise and involvement in numerous exorcisms. The book is illustrated with photographs. It is rated 5 out of 10.

• 'True Tales of The Unknown: Beyond Reality' edited by Sharon Jarvis. Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this is the third book in a series compiled by Jarvis. The reviewer finds it weak in places and difficult to obtain, noting that some stories are dated, like the Smurls case. However, specific stories like 'Hellzapoppin' in Amityville,' 'The Ghost With Two Guns,' and 'The Haunting of the U.S.S. Forrestal' are enjoyed. It is rated 5 out of 10.

• '13 Hollywood Haunts You Can Visit' by Richard L. Senate. Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this book is described as leaving much to be desired due to its format (stapled 8 1/2 by 11 sheets) and repetitive artwork. While the stories are interesting and include addresses for Hollywood-area locations, the reviewer felt it was overpriced for the quality. It is rated 3 out of 10.

• 'The Ghosts of Fredericksburg ...and nearby environs' by L.B. Taylor, Jr.. Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this book is part of a series on Virginia. The reviewer recommends it, particularly enjoying chapters on Kenmore Houses and Chatham. It is rated 7 out of 10.

• 'A Storyteller's Ghost Stories Book 2: Tales from Nebraska and Iowa' by Duane Hutchinson. Reviewed by Dale Kaczmarek, this book presents two kinds of ghost stories: made-up-for-fun and those that happen to people. It contains 18 examples and is described as a very good and sometimes scary book. It is rated 6 out of 10.

Advertisement: Eclectic Directory of Psychic Services

An advertisement for 'Eclectic Directory of Psychic Services - A Quality Listing 1992' is included, offering a descriptive, international, and indexed listing. The price is $11.95 postpaid ($12.95 overseas), and orders can be placed with Judith B. Abel in Eclectic, AL.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently features reader submissions, opinion polls, and extensive reviews of books related to ghosts, hauntings, and paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the unexplained, providing a platform for diverse viewpoints and detailed explorations of reported supernatural events and related literature. There is a clear emphasis on documenting and analyzing these phenomena, often with a critical eye towards the quality and content of published works.

This document is a classified section from a magazine, identified as issue number 29. It primarily consists of advertisements and subscription offers for various publications and organizations related to paranormal, metaphysical, and new age interests.

Advertisements and Offers

VOICES FROM SPIRIT MAGAZINE

This section advertises subscriptions to 'VOICES FROM SPIRIT MAGAZINE' for a $4.00 donation, offering 6 bi-monthly issues. It also mentions availability of FREE TAROT CARD READINGS, Curse Removals, and Good Luck Blessings. For details, interested parties are instructed to send a SASE (Self-Addressed Stamped Envelope) to VOICES, PO Box 5104, Ellsworth, ME. 04605. Checks or money orders should be made payable to Rev. Speaker Gerald Polley.

PSYCHIC PATHWAYS NEWSLETTER

'PSYCHIC PATHWAYS NEWSLETTER' is described as an enjoyable and informative resource covering a variety of Metaphysical and New Age subjects. It is a bi-monthly publication. A one-year subscription costs $15, and a two-year subscription is available for $25. Orders can be sent to PO Box 418, Woodmere, NY. 11598.

COUNT DRACULA FAN CLUB

This advertisement invites readers to join the 'COUNT DRACULA FAN CLUB.' For $4.00, members receive a sample Journal, Bites & Pieces, or Letterzine (whichever is current), along with full membership information. Payments should be made via check or money order to DRACULA UNLIMITED, PHN, 29 Washington Square West, New York, NY. 10011 U.S.A.

The Journal of the International Fortean Organization (INFO)

The General Index for 'The Journal of the International Fortean Organization,' covering issues 1-50, is now available. This index is the result of many months of work and provides access to the wealth of Fortean material published in the INFO Journals from 1967 to 1986. The majority of the back issues of the INFO Journals are still obtainable from INFO. Dealer inquiries are welcomed. The index is 140 pages, softbound, and priced at $12.50 plus $2.50 for postage and packing within the U.S. and foreign countries. Orders should be placed with INFO, PO Box 367, Arlington, VA. 22210-0367.

THE EAGLE'S SPIRIT

'THE EAGLE'S SPIRIT,' a monthly newsletter, is actively seeking new age writers, poets, and artists. Interested individuals are encouraged to query for guidelines. Subscriptions are available for $10 per year. The contact address is 917 1/2 6th St., Clarkston, WA. 99403. The phone number provided is (509) 758-5825.

National UFO Museum

The 'National UFO Museum' is promoting its 'FRIENDS OF THE MUSEUM Association.' Membership levels and associated costs are listed: Annual Member ($25), Group Member ($100), Charter Member (lifetime, self) ($250), and Founding Member (lifetime, family) ($1,000). The museum also publishes 'Notes From the Hangar,' its quarterly journal (priced at $4.95 per issue). Interested individuals are encouraged to 'Join Today!' by sending their information to the National UFO Museum, PO Box 20593, Sun Valley, NV. 89433.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this classified section are clearly focused on the paranormal, the supernatural, and fringe topics, including metaphysics, new age subjects, Fortean phenomena, and UFOs. The editorial stance, as represented by the advertisements accepted, is one that caters to an audience interested in these subjects, offering resources, publications, and opportunities for engagement within these communities.