Journal of the Fortean Research Center - Vol 4 No 2

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Journal of the Fortean Research Center, Volume IV, No. 2, published in Summer/Fall 1989, is dedicated to the theme "Do You Believe in Ghosts?". The cover features an illustration of a haunted house with a ghostly figure and lists several feature articles including "Things That Go Bump in the Night", "Who Goes There? The Haunting of a Lincoln Home", and "Into the Unknown". The price of the issue was $3.50.

Editorial

The editorial welcomes readers to the Summer edition, acknowledging the lateness of the issue due to the staff being busy with the upcoming Autumn issue. It expresses hope that the Autumn issue will be published within the next month.

Editor's Notes

Dale Bacon, the Editor, provides a welcome. The layout and paste-up were handled by Erik Hubl, with photography by Ed Rumbaugh. Mailing and distribution were managed by Kathryn Colborn. The issue lists contributors including Lin A. Bacon, Frank Drier, Wade Erickson, Stephen Johnson, Ida M. Kannenberg, Bill Knell, and Peggy Jo Marshall. The Director of the Fortean Research Center is Scott H. Colborn. The printing was done by T.S.A. Graphics in Omaha, Nebraska. The Journal is presented four times annually with a subscription cost of $15.00 (USA). The Fortean Research Center is located in Lincoln, NE.

From the Director

Scott H. Colborn, in his column "Loving/Hating the Alien", discusses the prevalent dichotomy in public perception of aliens, categorizing it into "hate the alien" and "love the alien" camps. He suggests that much of the information surrounding alien/human contact might be disinformation, both intentional and unintentional. Colborn advocates for a "don't know" attitude, which he believes leaves one open to future knowledge, whereas a fixed belief can lead to dismissing contradictory information. He highlights the ongoing efforts of the Fortean Research Center to discuss controversial topics and encourages an open mind. Colborn recounts his experience at the MUFON conference in Las Vegas, where the discussion of John Lear being dis-invited sparked debate. He argues that Lear's unusual material warranted a platform for presentation and discussion, even if not for belief. Colborn expresses a belief that there are struggles within the government and military regarding the disclosure of "truth" about UFOs, with some elements wanting to continue a decades-long cover-up. He also mentions enjoying meeting Timothy Good and commends his book "Above Top Secret". Colborn concludes by advising readers to "Keep an open mind, but not so open that your brains fall out!"

Editorial (Continued)

The editorial continues, detailing the busy summer schedule which included attending the 1989 Conference for UFO Investigators in Laramie, Wyoming. This conference focused on women in UFO research and featured speakers like Vickie Cooper discussing underground UFO bases in Dulce, New Mexico, Linda Moulton Howe on cattle mutilations, and Dr. Edith Fiore on alien abductions. The Fortean Research Center also held a pot-luck/video/meeting on July 15th. Both Director Scott Colborn and the author gave public presentations at the Omacon IX Convention in Omaha, Nebraska, with Scott discussing the RAF Bentwaters alleged UFO landing and the author presenting on apparition, ghost, and poltergeist phenomena. A recent presentation on the RAF Bentwaters sighting was given to a group in Omaha, lasting over three hours.

Into the Unknown

This article by Dale Bacon explores various paranormal phenomena, starting with the infamous "Borley Rectory", known as "the most haunted house in England". It also references newspaper reports of a "spectacular poltergeist-type haunting in Horicon, Wisconsin" and a 1987 Lincoln, Nebraska JOURNAL story about a haunting. The article discusses common explanations for paranormal experiences, such as afterimage, hallucination, and overactive imagination, while also posing questions about their sufficiency in explaining certain events, like a mother's vision of her deceased son or the appearance of a young woman in a dormitory.

Apparitions, Poltergeists, and Haunts

The article differentiates between apparitions, poltergeists, and haunts. An apparition is described as the non-living part of a personality that has survived physically after death. A poltergeist is explained as a psychokinetic disturbance, often associated with young individuals, and is sometimes referred to as Recurrent Spontaneous Psycho-Kinesis (RSPK). A "haunt" is defined as a location or object where individuals witness apparitions, poltergeists, or other ghost phenomena.

Research Organizations and the Fortean Research Center

Organizations like the Society for Psychical Research (SPR), the American Society for Psychical Research (ASPR), and the Parapsychological Association are mentioned for their past and present work in studying these phenomena, often in field research. The article notes that 20th-century technology has improved audio and video recording capabilities. The Fortean Research Center, based in Lincoln, Nebraska, is highlighted for its seven years of investigating the unexplained, including cases of haunts, poltergeists, UFOs, out-of-place animal sightings, and "big-foot" reports. The center emphasizes professional investigation with concern for the individuals involved. The article concludes by suggesting that while many occurrences have logical explanations, some scientific hypotheses might be considered "marginal" in fully explaining certain experiences.

Things That Go Bump in the Night

This article by Scott H. Colborn details a case he investigated involving alleged paranormal activity in a house in a small town near Lincoln, Nebraska. The case began with a phone call from a young man named Roger, who believed his fiancée Betty's house was haunted. Roger and Betty reported hearing footsteps on the second floor, originating from Betty's parents' bedroom. Despite ruling out normal explanations like drafts or pets, the footsteps persisted. During an investigation, Betty reported encountering a cold spot on the stairs while Roger relayed the events via phone. The article outlines a chronological list of alleged incidents, including water running in a shower stall that was dry and dusty, windows being rattled, door knobs being moved, a dog barking at a perceived voyeur, hearing female voices and whistling, and noticing an odor of perfume. The author notes that the definition of a poltergeist from Webster's New World Dictionary aptly fits the described incidents.

Chronological List of Incidents

• July 1982: Roger (17) and Betty (22) met. Highly strange events began in Betty's home.
• One night between 1 and 2 am: Betty awoke to the sound of water running in a shower stall, but found it dry and dusty upon inspection.
• August or September 1982: Betty began hearing windows being rattled and door knobs moved. Her dog barked loudly at someone looking in the living room window.
• July 1982 - mid-January 1983: Roger and Betty reported hearing "very feminine" voices, described as conversational, primarily upstairs. They also heard whistling, confined to the kitchen area.
• Fall 1982: Betty occasionally noticed an unfamiliar odor of perfume in the house.
• Ongoing: Betty and Roger reported hearing footsteps overhead, described as "not heavy or stomping...like someone pacing or walking around in an upstairs bedroom", ruling out Betty's parents.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, with a particular focus on ghosts, hauntings, and poltergeists. The journal also touches upon UFO phenomena and the concept of disinformation in relation to alien contact. The editorial stance, as expressed by the Editor and Director, is one of open-minded inquiry into controversial topics, encouraging readers to consider all possibilities without jumping to premature conclusions. The Fortean Research Center positions itself as an investigative body dedicated to exploring these phenomena professionally and with concern for those involved. The issue emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and the pursuit of understanding, even when dealing with subjects that challenge conventional beliefs.

Title: Fortean Research Journal
Issue Date: January 15, 1983
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the Fortean Research Journal presents a collection of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, UFO experiences, and philosophical questions about existence.

The Nebraska Haunting

The first major section details an investigation into alleged paranormal activity in a home in a small Nebraska farming community. The investigation team, including Gregory Case and Stacy Vornbrock, interviewed Betty and Roger, who reported a series of unexplained events. These included hearing footsteps on the stairs and in hallways, doors slamming, and dresser drawers being opened and closed. At one point, Roger reported seeing a dark, hooded figure standing over him, and Betty described a similar figure in a black robe with a hood. During this visitation, a street lamp that normally illuminated the room went out, making the room 'pitch black.'

Further incidents included heavy footsteps and loud noises upstairs on New Year's Eve. Later, Betty experienced a 'grayish mist' between her bed and the door, felt her hair pulled, and her bedsheets and blankets tugged. She also saw her Bible pages standing upright. The investigators noted that Betty's father was not home during these events, and her mother claimed not to hear them.

The investigation team questioned Roger and Betty separately, finding their accounts consistent. Mr. Case and Ms. Vornbrock expressed belief in their sincerity and found no reason to suspect a hoax. The issue also touches upon Betty's knowledge of the occult, specifically a book of spells she possessed, which the investigators requested be removed. The reported incidents ceased after the team's arrival in January 1983.

The Long Island UFO Experience

Written by Bill Knell, this article focuses on the prevalence of UFO stories and legends on Long Island, New York. Knell describes himself as a 'catalyst' for these stories, having investigated UFOs in the area for years. He notes that despite the high level of UFO activity, it is often ignored by the press and debunked by authorities. Long Island is characterized as a regular transit route and rest stop for UFOs, with rumors of a UFO base existing under or off its coasts.

Knell mentions 'Project Saucer,' a possible UFO crash off College Point, 'Mount Misery' sightings of discs and strange animals, and reports of strange lights and disturbed ground near the site of the Amityville Horror house. He highlights the role of Viacom cable television show host Joel Martin in bringing these stories to light. The syndicated TV special 'UFO COVER-UP LIVE!' is also credited with bringing the UFO phenomenon to more households.

Knell receives numerous reports involving sightings, landing circles, abductions, government activity, and cover-ups. He acknowledges the challenges of investigating these reports due to limited time, funds, and general inexperience of local groups. He also notes that many Long Islanders prefer to ignore the phenomenon. Knell shares his own experiences, including finding six genuine UFO landing circles and investigating eight cases of possible UFO-related animal mutilations, and photographing a nocturnal light. He refers readers to Budd Hopkins for information on abductions in the area. Knell publishes a free monthly newsletter called 'THE NEW YORK U.F.O. REPORT' and invites readers to share their own UFO stories.

Why Are They Here?

This article, written by Ida M. Kannenberg, presents a dictated message from entities identifying themselves as 'three helpers—The Hidden One, Amorto, and I.' These entities claim to be guiding humanity on a project that involves steering research away from government cover-ups and towards a different focus. They state their primary reason for interference is to 'SAVE OTHERS FROM YOUR POLLUTION,' preventing Earth's contaminations from spreading to other planets and peoples.

The entities describe themselves as perceived differently by individuals—some as benevolent, others as hideous or evil. They explain that those with benevolent souls receive truths about them, while arrogant individuals are tormented. They aim to change humanity's thinking to prevent the destruction of God's creatures and to counteract the degradation of art, music, and love, which they see as reverting to base forms.

The entities, referred to as 'THE GUARDIANS OF THE UNIVERSE,' express concern about Earth civilization spreading its 'canker' into the universe. They have watched humanity's development and are concerned about its capabilities extending into space, potentially littering other planets with debris and spreading diseases. They state they watch and do what they can within universal laws to change humanity's thinking, enabling wholesome commerce and communication between planets.

The article concludes by referencing Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle's work on 'Cosmic citizens,' suggesting that the entities' goal is to teach humanity how to become 'GOOD "Cosmic Citizens"' before they 'clutter up space and their communities with our destructive and polluting ways.'

Who Goes There? The Haunting of a Lincoln Home

Written by Stephen Johnson, this article details a specific haunting case in a Lincoln, Nebraska home. Johnson, along with researchers Scott Colborn and Dale Bacon, interviewed a family claiming their house was haunted. The account, presented as an edited transcript from 'Judy,' describes a ghost initially appearing as a smoke-like cloud in the living room. The family's dogs also exhibited unusual behavior, seemingly following an invisible presence.

Judy recounts seeing flashes and a cloud-like thing, which her husband 'Scot' also witnessed. Their son also reported seeing similar phenomena. The haunting escalated with sounds of footsteps on stairs and in bedrooms, and the chandelier in the dining room shaking. A particularly disturbing incident involved 'Scot' seeing a woman at the upstairs window who called his name, sounding like his deceased grandmother. Another incident involved 'Scot' seeing a transparent old woman at the front door.

The article details how 'Judy' eventually learned from a neighbor that the ghost was likely 'Mrs. Kennedy,' who had lived in the house with her husband from 1920 until his death in 1940. Mrs. Kennedy had apparently loved the house dearly and cried when she had to leave it. Subsequent to these events, the paranormal activity became sporadic, with guests reporting hearing footsteps and sensing a presence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores the unexplained and the paranormal, presenting witness accounts and investigative findings. The articles touch upon themes of ghosts, UFOs, extraterrestrial contact, and potential government cover-ups. There is an underlying tone of seeking truth and understanding beyond conventional explanations. The Fortean Research Journal appears to be a platform for sharing unusual experiences and encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond the mundane, inviting them to share their own encounters and impressions.

Title: Fortean Research Journal
Issue: Vol. IV, No. 2
Date: Summer/Fall 1989
Publisher: Fortean Research Center
Country: USA
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Content Summary

This issue of the Fortean Research Journal delves into various unexplained phenomena and astronomical observations, offering a mix of personal accounts, book reviews, and observational guides.

Paranormal Accounts and Investigations

The journal begins with a transcript of an account from a woman who experienced hauntings in her home. The account details the presence of a ghost, unusual animal interest, and a feeling of cold air, which seemed to cease after the house was remodeled. The Fortean Research Center thanks the family for sharing their experiences, noting the lack of physical evidence but the presence of multiple witnesses.

Book Reviews

Several book reviews are featured:

• The Message of the Crystal Skull: From Atlantis to the New Age by Alice Bryant and Phyllis Galde (1989): This review discusses the fascinating archaeological find of a crystal skull discovered in 1924 at a Mayan ruin in Central America. The skull is noted for its anatomical correctness and is one of three such ancient artifacts. The reviewer expresses a desire to touch the skull and finds the book to be a fun read that leaves one with unanswered questions.
• A Living Dinosaur by Roy P. Mackal (1987): This book is described as an adventure story detailing an expedition to the Congo region of Africa in search of the Mokele-Mbembe, a creature identified by natives as a 'monstrous animal' or dinosaur. The review poses the ultimate question of whether a dinosaur could still exist in remote areas and recommends the book for its true adventure.
• The Forgotten Pilgrimage of Jesus compiled by James F. Forcucci: This review highlights a collection of writings by 19th-century Russian explorer Nicolas Noatovitch, who visited a Buddhist monastery in Leh, India. The monastery houses scrolls detailing the life of Saint Issa (Jesus) from his youth to his public ministry. The review notes that the scrolls offer a perspective on Jesus' life that has both parallels and differences with the Biblical account, combining archaeology, scholarship, and religious philosophy.

Astronomical Observations and Events

Erik Hubl's "Sky Watch" column provides guidance for observing celestial phenomena:

• Planetary Visibility: Venus is noted as being low in the southwest after sunset, appearing very bright and sometimes mistaken for an airplane or UFO. Jupiter is visible in the East after 9:00 PM and high overhead by sunrise. The column also mentions the location of Neptune and Uranus in the sky.
• Constellations and Galaxies: Cassiopeia is described as a constellation visible year-round, pointing towards the Andromeda Galaxy (M-31), which is 2.2 million light-years away and can be seen with the unaided eye or binoculars.
• Lunar Eclipse: The issue recounts a personal experience of witnessing a lunar eclipse on August 16th from Lincoln, NE, describing the moon as orange and noting surface features visible through a telescope.
• Solar Flare and Northern Lights: A significant solar flare on October 20th unleashed charged particles that caused a spectacular display of red, pink, and white northern lights across North America. This event is suggested as a precursor to increased aurora activity due to the sun's sunspot cycle approaching maximum.
• Winter Solstice: The Winter Solstice is noted as occurring on December 21st, marking the shortest day of the year.

The column also includes notes on astronomical magnitude and encourages readers to observe the sky.

Back Issues and Further Information

The journal lists available back issues of the "Journal of the Fortean Research Center" for purchase, along with their prices and ordering instructions. It also provides contact information for various organizations that deal with the unexplained, encouraging readers to support them financially and spiritually. Additionally, it lists businesses that carry the journal for those who cannot wait for mail delivery.

Editorial Stance and Themes

The journal consistently explores topics related to the unexplained, UFOs, paranormal events, and astronomical curiosities. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry and reporting on phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, encouraging reader engagement and support for research into these areas. Recurring themes include UFO investigations, alleged paranormal encounters, and the intersection of science and the unexplained.