Yes, today is the day! Not only do you get free candy from your neighbors (and possibly some free toilet paper from their unruly teenage kids), you get a slew of new material from The Weirding!
When we were growing up, it was the best day of the year next to Christmas! There were fantastic TV specials and neighborhoods filled with little ghosts, goblins, and princesses, bustling from door to door with their plastic pumpkins in tow. The days that followed found everyone beside a horde of candy, deep in talks of trade.
But Halloween has been dealt some serious damage in recent years, thanks largely to media scare tactics and religious zealots. So, in the interest of getting to the bottom of the whole thing, The OddBlog decided to take a spin around the ol' InterWeb and see what we could dig up on this ancient holiday:
And so, that's about as much digging as we needed to do - no sense rehashing the same, right? As well, you might like to check out the festivities we've been throwing over to The Rundown all day long - video after video of horrific goodies I toiled to turn-up on the ol' YouTube. And, last but nowhere near least, today is the big unveiling of a cornucopia of content over to The Weirding.
Happy Hallowe'en, y'all!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The paranormal, the Supernatural, the odd and Unexplained
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Operation: All Clear - The Oklahoma City Bombing
Oklahoma City Bombing The Oklahoma City Bombing in 1995 was alleged to have been carried-out by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols (alone...
Friday, October 31, 2008
Tonight's Ghost Adventures - Sneak!
Once again, The OddBlog brings you a sneak peek at tonight's Ghost Adventures episode. Of course, there are a whole lot of Hallowe'en options today and tonight, but it's only one hour long, so I don't think you'll miss much by tuning in. The first two episodes were fantastic and this one promises to be just as good!
Depending on how things go, we may have posts throughout the Ghost Hunters Live event tonight. I plan on watching this episode of Ghost Adventures though, and may have a comment or two on it as well.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Depending on how things go, we may have posts throughout the Ghost Hunters Live event tonight. I plan on watching this episode of Ghost Adventures though, and may have a comment or two on it as well.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Gender Selection Growing
According to a new article from the BBC, not only is gender selection possible (through IVF and a method called Pre-Implantation Genetic Diagnosis, or PGD), many couples - mothers, especially - are going out of the country to have it done.
Gender selection is generally illegal in much of the Western world, unless there is a medical necessity (such as a genetic predisposition for disease in one sex). While many mothers find places to have it done by searching online, they are rarely certain if it is actually legal where they have it done... and many clinics are profiting off this by offering the services in countries and areas where it is illegal.
The article is a captivating expose on the growing phenomena and I refer you there to learn more.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Gender selection is generally illegal in much of the Western world, unless there is a medical necessity (such as a genetic predisposition for disease in one sex). While many mothers find places to have it done by searching online, they are rarely certain if it is actually legal where they have it done... and many clinics are profiting off this by offering the services in countries and areas where it is illegal.
The article is a captivating expose on the growing phenomena and I refer you there to learn more.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Catholic Priest: "Jesus Was Not God"
An Australian priest has written a booklet entitled "God is Big. Real Big," in which he claims Jesus Christ was not God and Mary was not a virgin.
The booklet, on-sale in many Catholic churches for $20.00, also claims that Mary had six children, Joseph was Jesus' father, and the Resurrection never occurred. Obviously, this has sparked outrage and controversy amongst many traditionalchild mol Catholics.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The booklet, on-sale in many Catholic churches for $20.00, also claims that Mary had six children, Joseph was Jesus' father, and the Resurrection never occurred. Obviously, this has sparked outrage and controversy amongst many traditional
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Ghost of Maid Marian Captured?
The caretaker of the Nottingham Old Court House kept hearing unexplained sounds coming from the dungeon - such as doors slamming. He even claims to have seen a fire door open of its own accord on one occasion and says he is "constantly on edge when opening up."
Recently, he decided to lay the matter to rest and, after hearing a series of inexplicable sounds, he snapped several shots of the dungeon beneath the museum. What appeared when the film was developed is claimed by some to be the ghost of Maid Marian.
Maid Marian was actually not originally associated with the legendary figure of Robin Hood and the two legends likely became entwined throughout time because of their dual roles in May Day festivities. Robin Hood's lady friend was actually named Clorinda.
Regardless of whom or what is seen in the photograph, it certainly appears to be a human form.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Recently, he decided to lay the matter to rest and, after hearing a series of inexplicable sounds, he snapped several shots of the dungeon beneath the museum. What appeared when the film was developed is claimed by some to be the ghost of Maid Marian.
Maid Marian was actually not originally associated with the legendary figure of Robin Hood and the two legends likely became entwined throughout time because of their dual roles in May Day festivities. Robin Hood's lady friend was actually named Clorinda.
Regardless of whom or what is seen in the photograph, it certainly appears to be a human form.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Pole Position
Nothing much "odd" about this one - unless you count the fact that both passengers walked away without a scratch! Still, it's definitely something you don't see everyday (thank God!).The $250k, classic Ferrari was split "up [to] where the gear stick should be." An eyewitness said it made a sound "just like zing zing" as it passed at high speed, moments before colliding with the pole.
Pictures snatched from Herald-Sun.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Blecch
Sorry guys. I woke up last night with a stomach ache and ran back and forth to bathroom nearly all night.
I am not 100%, but I realized the bread I bought the other day was hard on one side and when I looked closer, it has some kind of yellowish "ring" around the inside of it... first time I noticed it. I don't know if that's what did it or not, but I hadn't eaten any since that afternoon - hours before! Still, they say food poisoning takes a few hours to set.
The only other thing it could be is this anti-inflammatory medicine they gave me for my wrist, but I have been taking it off and on for about two weeks without any real trouble. Of course, like the food thing, they say it can take a while for side-effects to set-in, as well.
Anyway, I have been so hard at work on the site that the blogs have been neglected. However, I have been bookmarking stories as I come across them, so many of the stories I'll be bringing you the next few days will likely be from several days past. Still, if you haven't read them, they're still news to you!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
I am not 100%, but I realized the bread I bought the other day was hard on one side and when I looked closer, it has some kind of yellowish "ring" around the inside of it... first time I noticed it. I don't know if that's what did it or not, but I hadn't eaten any since that afternoon - hours before! Still, they say food poisoning takes a few hours to set.
The only other thing it could be is this anti-inflammatory medicine they gave me for my wrist, but I have been taking it off and on for about two weeks without any real trouble. Of course, like the food thing, they say it can take a while for side-effects to set-in, as well.
Anyway, I have been so hard at work on the site that the blogs have been neglected. However, I have been bookmarking stories as I come across them, so many of the stories I'll be bringing you the next few days will likely be from several days past. Still, if you haven't read them, they're still news to you!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Arkansas Campus Shooting
Another campus shooting in Arkansas occurred overnight, though this one appears to be disconnected from the normal rash of American school shootings.
While reports are still coming in, it appears at least four men were involved in the shooting, which occurred on the University of Central Arkansas campus Sunday morning. Two people were killed and a third wounded, but no names have been released as police have yet to contact family members.
The shootings took place right outside a dormitory and all of the victims were men. It is believed the police have at least one person of interest in custody, though it has yet to be confirmed. Videotape is being scrutinized.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
While reports are still coming in, it appears at least four men were involved in the shooting, which occurred on the University of Central Arkansas campus Sunday morning. Two people were killed and a third wounded, but no names have been released as police have yet to contact family members.
The shootings took place right outside a dormitory and all of the victims were men. It is believed the police have at least one person of interest in custody, though it has yet to be confirmed. Videotape is being scrutinized.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Things What Done Fell from the Sky: Boise's Earliest Snow
Boise, Idaho residents were shocked when large snowflakes drifted down in the late afternoon of October 11th. The snow covered branches and causes scattered power outages. It also caught people off-guard, barraging bicyclists and other pedestrians.
This was the earliest recorded snowfall in the area on record since 1898 (when records started being kept). The previous record was October 12th, recorded in 1969. By 10pm that night, nearly 2" of snow had fallen.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
This was the earliest recorded snowfall in the area on record since 1898 (when records started being kept). The previous record was October 12th, recorded in 1969. By 10pm that night, nearly 2" of snow had fallen.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
SSI BBQ
A family in Tehama County roasted their dead mother on a grill to obscure her death so they could continue receiving her retirement benefits - more than $25,000 - according to a sheriff.
Ramona Allmond's daughter and grandson (55 and 30, respectively) told authorities the woman had died in December. Though no cause of death is known, she is believed to have expired from natural causes. A detective said the two said they were observing the woman's wishes to die at home and be cremated. They left her on the bedroom floor for about a week before burning her corpse in the backyard BBQ pit.
Suspicions were raised when she was missed by her son. The pair are being held in jail and neither has an attorney. They have been arrested on suspicion of embezzlement, abuse of the elderly, and illegal disposal of a body.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Ramona Allmond's daughter and grandson (55 and 30, respectively) told authorities the woman had died in December. Though no cause of death is known, she is believed to have expired from natural causes. A detective said the two said they were observing the woman's wishes to die at home and be cremated. They left her on the bedroom floor for about a week before burning her corpse in the backyard BBQ pit.
Suspicions were raised when she was missed by her son. The pair are being held in jail and neither has an attorney. They have been arrested on suspicion of embezzlement, abuse of the elderly, and illegal disposal of a body.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Friday, October 24, 2008
Downtime
I have been working so hard lately that I just had to take a few days off. It has been rainy lately and that has my neck hurting. I have some medicine that helps with the swelling, pressure, and pain, but it makes me sleepy... just exhausted, really.
Anyway, I'll be working throughout the weekend and depending on how I feel later, may have a few words to drop about tonight's Ghost Adventures.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Anyway, I'll be working throughout the weekend and depending on how I feel later, may have a few words to drop about tonight's Ghost Adventures.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
This Week's Ghost Adventures
I attended the live chat following last week's explosive debut of the Travel Channel's Ghost Adventures and all of us in attendance agreed that Zac is a bit... well, he scolded us! He got right in front of that camera, shoved the other guys out of the way, and just chewed us all a new one!
Still, it is that same aggression that seems to elicit such responses from the paranormal. And this is also what has brought the team - and the show - under fire by detractors, who note they seem to consistently get wildly successful results.
Anyway, this week's episode takes the team to the Houghton Mansion in Massachusetts. I am not certain there will be another live chat event, but if there is (and we can get in - it was packed last week!), we'll be there once again.
Ghost Adventures airs at 8:00pm CST, this Friday. The premiere episode re-airs immediately before it (and comes on at the top of the hour if you are in the Central Timezone!).
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Still, it is that same aggression that seems to elicit such responses from the paranormal. And this is also what has brought the team - and the show - under fire by detractors, who note they seem to consistently get wildly successful results.
Anyway, this week's episode takes the team to the Houghton Mansion in Massachusetts. I am not certain there will be another live chat event, but if there is (and we can get in - it was packed last week!), we'll be there once again.
Ghost Adventures airs at 8:00pm CST, this Friday. The premiere episode re-airs immediately before it (and comes on at the top of the hour if you are in the Central Timezone!).
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Pres. Sarkozy Threatens to Sue Over Voodoo Doll
French President Nicolas Sarkozy has threatened to sue a publishing company if it does not remove "voodoo" dolls made in his image from stores. The doll contains pins and instructions on how to use the kit. The effigy is strategically decorated with quotes from the President, in which the pins are to be placed. There is also a kit for his Socialist opponent, who has also threatened to sue.
The publishing company said Sarkozy's response was "disproportionate" and has so far refused to remove the doll kits. Sarkozy's lawyer said he has exclusive control over his image, and his opponent's lawyer said she found the doll in her image an affront to her human dignity. (Politicians - human dignity - Ha!)
"Voodoo" is not an actual religion or branch of the Occult and practitioners of the religion, Voudon (on which it is based), say the associations with zombies and sympathetic magickery such as the voodoo doll are misrepresentative of their faith.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The publishing company said Sarkozy's response was "disproportionate" and has so far refused to remove the doll kits. Sarkozy's lawyer said he has exclusive control over his image, and his opponent's lawyer said she found the doll in her image an affront to her human dignity. (Politicians - human dignity - Ha!)
"Voodoo" is not an actual religion or branch of the Occult and practitioners of the religion, Voudon (on which it is based), say the associations with zombies and sympathetic magickery such as the voodoo doll are misrepresentative of their faith.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Aryan Sorcerer Jailed
Dmitriy V. Sklyarov, 20, is a self-proclaimed "Aryan Sorcerer" and leader of an Indiana separatist group which denounces blacks and Jews. Other members include... no one.
Dmitriy held a 30-minute "rally" on the steps of Muncie's courthouse in March, 2007, declaring his hatred for blacks and Jews and posted much the same nonsense on his MySpace page. He dropped-out of highschool, where it is reported he stayed in trouble. He called the school recently and left messages claiming to have created dolls in the images of several teachers, which he adorned with his own blood. He predicted the teachers would become sick "and die." For good measure, he added a "Hail, Satan!"
Dmitriy was actually arrested for repeatedly biting a 9-year old boy left in his care.
But you would have to really read the story from The Star Press of Eastern Indiana to find that out - it's buried somewhere in there.
To quote a typical, Eastern Indiana resident (Go, Hayseeds!), commenting on the piece:
Dmitriy held a 30-minute "rally" on the steps of Muncie's courthouse in March, 2007, declaring his hatred for blacks and Jews and posted much the same nonsense on his MySpace page. He dropped-out of highschool, where it is reported he stayed in trouble. He called the school recently and left messages claiming to have created dolls in the images of several teachers, which he adorned with his own blood. He predicted the teachers would become sick "and die." For good measure, he added a "Hail, Satan!"
Dmitriy was actually arrested for repeatedly biting a 9-year old boy left in his care.
But you would have to really read the story from The Star Press of Eastern Indiana to find that out - it's buried somewhere in there.
To quote a typical, Eastern Indiana resident (Go, Hayseeds!), commenting on the piece:
all i can say is freak-a-zoid robot, mindbender, fruitcake, whacko,weirdo.schitzo,idiot, satan worshipper, hannibal lechter, and get the hell out of the USA> go home, you don't belong here.your nuts but the big boys in prison town will take care of YOU>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>© C Harris Lynn, 2008
India's Moon Mission
The Chandrayaan 1 successfully launched from India to begin its two-year mission to the moon.
The unmanned flight will orbit the moon, searching for evidence of water and Helium 3 - an isotope rare on earth which could be used for energy. The Prime Minister released a message hailing the scientific community, saying "the entire nation salutes them."
The launch was applauded by scientists at the launch pad and was broadcast live across the nation. The probe carries tools built by India, Britain, Germany, and the US. If successful, India will be the fourth nation to plant a flag on the lunar surface.
Chandrayaan is Sanskrit for "moon craft."
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The unmanned flight will orbit the moon, searching for evidence of water and Helium 3 - an isotope rare on earth which could be used for energy. The Prime Minister released a message hailing the scientific community, saying "the entire nation salutes them."
The launch was applauded by scientists at the launch pad and was broadcast live across the nation. The probe carries tools built by India, Britain, Germany, and the US. If successful, India will be the fourth nation to plant a flag on the lunar surface.
Chandrayaan is Sanskrit for "moon craft."
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
More on ESP
In editing tags, I came across an earlier post in which I think I was trying to distinguish between terms referring to kinetic acts.
(Let me preface the rest of this by noting the post referenced is not one of my finer moments... I was probably drinking. That is not to say I do not feel strongly about that in which I believe, just that... well, that post goes a bit overboard without ever specifying much of... anything and I fully realize this. But I digress...)
Kinesis is defined as "the movement of an organism in response to a stimulus." In particular, there are two definitions with which we are concerned: telekinesis and psychokinesis. The differences are subtle and often argued.
As the above clearly illustrates, we do not have enough information on ESP phenomena to make separations between disciplines and individual phenomenon - so why bother? In fact, the first to even attempt to do so was the Society for Psychical Research, founded in 1882, and while their intent was both admirable and understandable, it is too far-reaching and thus meritless.
When a "psychic" predicts something that comes true, how are we to know whether he possesses some form of precognitive "power" or some form of telepathy which allowed him to communicate with (or be communicated by) some entity which informed him of the matter? This would technically define the difference between a "psychic" and a "psychic medium." But further, maybe some heretofore unknown discipline was exercised which allowed the "psychic" to access some natural energy, field, power, et. al., in which such knowledge is stored - a "dimension" or field where the normal "rules" of time are inapplicable, corrupted, or - even better - so perfect and perfectly true as to contain all things past, present, and future?
In fact, while tests concerning ESP are inconclusive - in no small part because we do not know how to even begin testing them - at least one test carried out in 1971 proved that while ESP is likely (that is, that something inexplicable is present), division beyond that is simply not possible at this stage of research.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
(Let me preface the rest of this by noting the post referenced is not one of my finer moments... I was probably drinking. That is not to say I do not feel strongly about that in which I believe, just that... well, that post goes a bit overboard without ever specifying much of... anything and I fully realize this. But I digress...)
Kinesis is defined as "the movement of an organism in response to a stimulus." In particular, there are two definitions with which we are concerned: telekinesis and psychokinesis. The differences are subtle and often argued.
- Psychokinesis is the discipline of moving something through sheer force of will, or "mind power," if you will; possibly the truest form of "mind over matter."
- Telekinesis is the discipline of communicating with spirits to have them move objects for you. In this regard, telekinesis is often seen as a matter of telepathy - which, technically speaking, it is.
As the above clearly illustrates, we do not have enough information on ESP phenomena to make separations between disciplines and individual phenomenon - so why bother? In fact, the first to even attempt to do so was the Society for Psychical Research, founded in 1882, and while their intent was both admirable and understandable, it is too far-reaching and thus meritless.
When a "psychic" predicts something that comes true, how are we to know whether he possesses some form of precognitive "power" or some form of telepathy which allowed him to communicate with (or be communicated by) some entity which informed him of the matter? This would technically define the difference between a "psychic" and a "psychic medium." But further, maybe some heretofore unknown discipline was exercised which allowed the "psychic" to access some natural energy, field, power, et. al., in which such knowledge is stored - a "dimension" or field where the normal "rules" of time are inapplicable, corrupted, or - even better - so perfect and perfectly true as to contain all things past, present, and future?
In fact, while tests concerning ESP are inconclusive - in no small part because we do not know how to even begin testing them - at least one test carried out in 1971 proved that while ESP is likely (that is, that something inexplicable is present), division beyond that is simply not possible at this stage of research.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
NASA, DOD Tap iLASIK
This is pretty interesting on several levels:
It turns out the Department of Defense (DOD) and NASA have tapped a new form of LASIK technology called iLASIK to help improve the performance of agents and astronauts performing important missions under extreme, demanding conditions.
While this technology has been helping civilians for going-on five years, the new iLASIK procedure uses dual lasers instead of one. The first stage maps the unique, individual characteristics of the patient's eyes using wave-front technology. The second stage utilizes a computer-guided laser to surgically create a corneal flap, replacing the doctor's need for a handheld microkeratome blade used in previous techniques. Finally, a computer-guided laser - guided by the frist step's frontal-mapping - performs the surgery.
"The DOD and NASA have validated the fact that today's LASIK exceeds all established standards of safety and effectiveness," said a spokesperson for the departments. Further, tests involving 100 military personnel proved 95% successful: 95 of those who underwent the surgery achieved 20/20 uncorrected vision or better. Further, 100% of them said they would recommend the procedure to others!
If you have ever needed surgery to correct your vision for whatever reason, there was never a better time to join the 12+ million Americans who have already undergone LASIK procedures. For more LASIK information simply follow the link provided.
It turns out the Department of Defense (DOD) and NASA have tapped a new form of LASIK technology called iLASIK to help improve the performance of agents and astronauts performing important missions under extreme, demanding conditions.
While this technology has been helping civilians for going-on five years, the new iLASIK procedure uses dual lasers instead of one. The first stage maps the unique, individual characteristics of the patient's eyes using wave-front technology. The second stage utilizes a computer-guided laser to surgically create a corneal flap, replacing the doctor's need for a handheld microkeratome blade used in previous techniques. Finally, a computer-guided laser - guided by the frist step's frontal-mapping - performs the surgery.
"The DOD and NASA have validated the fact that today's LASIK exceeds all established standards of safety and effectiveness," said a spokesperson for the departments. Further, tests involving 100 military personnel proved 95% successful: 95 of those who underwent the surgery achieved 20/20 uncorrected vision or better. Further, 100% of them said they would recommend the procedure to others!
If you have ever needed surgery to correct your vision for whatever reason, there was never a better time to join the 12+ million Americans who have already undergone LASIK procedures. For more LASIK information simply follow the link provided.
Mexican Police Get Ahead... and Three More to Go with It
Mexican police received a package marked as containing vaccines last week and did not open it until yesterday, only to discover it contained four human heads.
Postmarked from Ciudad Juarez - probably the most violent city in the area, where the majority of Mexico's drug-related murders are thought to occur - authorities suspect the heads may be from 10 locals who were abducted a week back. They discounted reports that any belonged to a police commander who went missing May 18th.
The town to which the package was shipped is close to the US border and the heads all belonged to men between the ages of 25-35.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Postmarked from Ciudad Juarez - probably the most violent city in the area, where the majority of Mexico's drug-related murders are thought to occur - authorities suspect the heads may be from 10 locals who were abducted a week back. They discounted reports that any belonged to a police commander who went missing May 18th.
The town to which the package was shipped is close to the US border and the heads all belonged to men between the ages of 25-35.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
RAF Pilot Sicced on UFO
In 1957, 26-year old USAF Lieutenant, Milton Torres, was stationed in the UK. One night, he was ordered to scramble his jet and fire "a complete salvo, all 24 rockets" at a "bogey" tracked over Norwich.
He got the UFO on his radar but, before he could fire, it disappeared. "This thing had a different propulsion system. It was not an airplane."
Torres was visited by a "sinister" officer from an unnamed bureau and warned to keep quiet about the incident. He did until today, when he told his story, following the release of the report by National Archives yesterday. His is one of 19 released.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
He got the UFO on his radar but, before he could fire, it disappeared. "This thing had a different propulsion system. It was not an airplane."
Torres was visited by a "sinister" officer from an unnamed bureau and warned to keep quiet about the incident. He did until today, when he told his story, following the release of the report by National Archives yesterday. His is one of 19 released.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Cavemen were Stoners
Long suspected, it appears a North Carolina archaeologist discovered equipment used to prepare hallucinogenic drugs that dates back to prehistoric times, thus proving Man has a history of drug use.
The discovery was made on the Caribbean island of Carriacou. Mixing bowls and tubes used for inhalation appear to be have been manufactured in South America, then brought to the islands.
The drugs were almost certainly used for religious purposes.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The discovery was made on the Caribbean island of Carriacou. Mixing bowls and tubes used for inhalation appear to be have been manufactured in South America, then brought to the islands.
The drugs were almost certainly used for religious purposes.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Albinos Protest Killings
This is a story we have been following for some time:
Tanzanian albinos staged a protest in the commercial capitol, urging politicians and police to do more to curb the killing of members of their community. 25 or more have been killed this last year, including babies. Albinos in the region have been pursued and murdered for numerous reasons - some believe they are witches, while others believe their body parts are useful in witchcraft-based rituals.
Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete met with the protesters. While some have been detained over the murders, few have been convicted, and the community does not feel authorities have done enough.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Tanzanian albinos staged a protest in the commercial capitol, urging politicians and police to do more to curb the killing of members of their community. 25 or more have been killed this last year, including babies. Albinos in the region have been pursued and murdered for numerous reasons - some believe they are witches, while others believe their body parts are useful in witchcraft-based rituals.
Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete met with the protesters. While some have been detained over the murders, few have been convicted, and the community does not feel authorities have done enough.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Who Stole the Beach?
Jamaican authorities are puzzled by the theft... of a beach.
According to reports, some 500 truckloads of beach went missing in July. As a good beach is considered valuable to hotels and the sand was lifted from the site of a planned resort, certain suspects have taken top-billing.
But since no arrests have been made, the police have come under fire. Jamaican police are notoriously corrupt and given the type of sand stolen, those in the hotel business are the most likely culprits. The chief openly admits this is part of the problem: they suspect collusion.
But where has the sand gone and how and when was it moved?
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
According to reports, some 500 truckloads of beach went missing in July. As a good beach is considered valuable to hotels and the sand was lifted from the site of a planned resort, certain suspects have taken top-billing.
But since no arrests have been made, the police have come under fire. Jamaican police are notoriously corrupt and given the type of sand stolen, those in the hotel business are the most likely culprits. The chief openly admits this is part of the problem: they suspect collusion.
But where has the sand gone and how and when was it moved?
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Last Living Titanic Survivor Auctioning Mementos
96-year old Milvina Dean became the final survivor of the Titanic last year, following the passing of Barbara Dainton (also 96). Now, she is auctioning-off many of her Titanic-related memorabilia to help pay for her retirement.
These mementos include a suitcase full of clothes, letters from the Titanic Relief Fund sent her mother, and several rare prints of the doomed Titanic.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
These mementos include a suitcase full of clothes, letters from the Titanic Relief Fund sent her mother, and several rare prints of the doomed Titanic.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Friday, October 17, 2008
Gearing-Up for Ghost Adventures
The movie is drawing to a close; there's only about 20 minutes to the series premiere of Ghost Adventures on the Travel Channel.
I had already seen this documentary. Actually, it was on the Sci-Fi Channel when I saw it, come to think of it. Still, it is a good flick and I hope they bring the excitement and drama of it to the new show. Plus I love that it's on Friday nights! Friday nights basically suck - though perhaps not quite as bad as Saturdays.
Immediately following the show will be a live chat with the crew. They seem like really down-to-earth guys and honestly like cats I'd probably hang-out with IRL, if I knew them. Of course, I will be in the live chat and I hope it's as much fun as the last one - though I also hope Ghost Adventures is better than Most Haunted Live.
See ya soon!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
I had already seen this documentary. Actually, it was on the Sci-Fi Channel when I saw it, come to think of it. Still, it is a good flick and I hope they bring the excitement and drama of it to the new show. Plus I love that it's on Friday nights! Friday nights basically suck - though perhaps not quite as bad as Saturdays.
Immediately following the show will be a live chat with the crew. They seem like really down-to-earth guys and honestly like cats I'd probably hang-out with IRL, if I knew them. Of course, I will be in the live chat and I hope it's as much fun as the last one - though I also hope Ghost Adventures is better than Most Haunted Live.
See ya soon!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Ghost Adventures Sneak Peek
Tomorrow night, The Travel Channel premieres their latest paranormal reality show, Ghost Adventures. Starting with the award-winning documentary by the same name, the premiere of the new series follows at 9:00pm CST.
Host, Zak Bagan, and crew research reportedly haunted locations both domestically and internationally, then lock themselves in for a 12-hour investigation. The debut finds them in Wilder, KY at Bobby Mackey Music World.
And, just for you, The OddBlog has a sneak-peek at tomorrow night's show!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Host, Zak Bagan, and crew research reportedly haunted locations both domestically and internationally, then lock themselves in for a 12-hour investigation. The debut finds them in Wilder, KY at Bobby Mackey Music World.
And, just for you, The OddBlog has a sneak-peek at tomorrow night's show!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Graffiti Wall Vandalized
A 30'-long wall in Wadebridge Cornwall was erected to give local graffiti artists a place to show off their work. The construction materials and labor was donated by local businesses and not taxpayers. But at least one taxpayer was unaware of this.
Someone snuck into the area and vandalized the wall with the notice, "I PAID MY TAX AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY WALL!!..."
Now it appears taxpayer money will have to be spent on investigating the crime and covering the remark.
The interesting thing is that, while some people find it silly to cover this graffiti, others note there is a difference between graffiti and vandalism, which has sparked interesting linguistic debates. However, all of the townspeople were given the opportunity to discuss their feelings on the project prior to construction, leading Sergeant Robin Moorcroft, who came up with the idea in the first place, to label the vandal a "coward."
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Someone snuck into the area and vandalized the wall with the notice, "I PAID MY TAX AND ALL I GOT WAS THIS LOUSY WALL!!..."
Now it appears taxpayer money will have to be spent on investigating the crime and covering the remark.
The interesting thing is that, while some people find it silly to cover this graffiti, others note there is a difference between graffiti and vandalism, which has sparked interesting linguistic debates. However, all of the townspeople were given the opportunity to discuss their feelings on the project prior to construction, leading Sergeant Robin Moorcroft, who came up with the idea in the first place, to label the vandal a "coward."
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Rabbits Invade South Africa
South Africa's Robben Island Museum will close from November 1st-16th so authorities can cull rabbits!
The rabbit population has become so prolific that it threatens the fauna on the rest of the island and many must be killed to cull it. Of course, the biggest threat is to the island's vegetation.
After the current population has been curbed, a sterilization program will be implemented to prevent future population explosions.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The rabbit population has become so prolific that it threatens the fauna on the rest of the island and many must be killed to cull it. Of course, the biggest threat is to the island's vegetation.
After the current population has been curbed, a sterilization program will be implemented to prevent future population explosions.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Suit Against God Dismissed
Nebraska State Senator, Ernie Chambers, filed a permanent injunction against God, claiming the defendant inspired fear and made terroristic threats, as well as being responsible for "widespread death, destruction and terrorization of millions upon millions of the Earth's inhabitants." Chambers said he filed the case to make the point that the courts should be open to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
However, a judge dismissed the case based on the fact that Chambers did not have God's address. The defendant must be notified of the lawsuit, and without an address, how can he be?
Chambers noted, since the court acknowledges the existence of God, it therefore acknowledges his omniscience, meaning God has notice of the lawsuit. He has 30 days to decide if he will appeal.
Senator Chambers skips morning prayer and has been known to criticize Christians.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
However, a judge dismissed the case based on the fact that Chambers did not have God's address. The defendant must be notified of the lawsuit, and without an address, how can he be?
Chambers noted, since the court acknowledges the existence of God, it therefore acknowledges his omniscience, meaning God has notice of the lawsuit. He has 30 days to decide if he will appeal.
Senator Chambers skips morning prayer and has been known to criticize Christians.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Whizzinator Dealers Plead Guilty
Makers of the "Whizzinator," a prosthetic penis developed to help fool drug urine tests, have been charged with conspiracy to defraud the federal government and are expected to plead guilty.
In a 19-page indictment, the president and vice-president of the company which makes the product are charged with conspiracy to defraud the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
While the company's legal representative originally said he did not believe the government could bring a case against his clients but later reversed his opinion. He admitted that if government employees, such as truck drivers and pilots, were using the products to beat drug tests, there could be serious consequences. There is a plea bargain on the table, but the details are not being revealed.
Several members of the Kennedy family have avoided legal prosecution for drug and alcohol-related crimes including manslaughter, rape, and hit-and-run. None used the Whizzinator.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
In a 19-page indictment, the president and vice-president of the company which makes the product are charged with conspiracy to defraud the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
While the company's legal representative originally said he did not believe the government could bring a case against his clients but later reversed his opinion. He admitted that if government employees, such as truck drivers and pilots, were using the products to beat drug tests, there could be serious consequences. There is a plea bargain on the table, but the details are not being revealed.
Several members of the Kennedy family have avoided legal prosecution for drug and alcohol-related crimes including manslaughter, rape, and hit-and-run. None used the Whizzinator.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Turnabout is Fair Play: $0.35 Gas
Gas station owners are always jacking-up gas prices for the slightest of reasons, even when there is no need to. Whenever inclement weather is expected, oil prices rise even slightly, rumors of political upheaval surface - or the day just happens to end in "Y." That's what makes this little tidbit so refreshing:
A gas station in Wisconsin had gas advertised at $3.43 a gallon, but the pumps were reading $0.349 (35¢)! And customers were lined-up around the block - some even filling-up cans at the ridiculously low price.
One woman who usually spends about $100 to fill-up her 1998 Ford Expedition proudly showed off her $8.85 receipt for over 25 gallons of gas.
The owner estimated 30-40 people got 200-300 gallons worth of gas at the cut-rate for over 90 minutes before the mistake was discovered and corrected.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
A gas station in Wisconsin had gas advertised at $3.43 a gallon, but the pumps were reading $0.349 (35¢)! And customers were lined-up around the block - some even filling-up cans at the ridiculously low price.
One woman who usually spends about $100 to fill-up her 1998 Ford Expedition proudly showed off her $8.85 receipt for over 25 gallons of gas.
The owner estimated 30-40 people got 200-300 gallons worth of gas at the cut-rate for over 90 minutes before the mistake was discovered and corrected.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Monday, October 13, 2008
Meth Fueling Illegal Artifacts Trade
According to a new article, methamphetamine addiction is apparently behind the increased illegal trade in artifacts, at least in and around Oregon. The state has even initiated an operation to combat it, called Operation Bring 'Em Back.
While artifacts collection and trade is sometimes considered politically incorrect, there is a legal market for it. You can discover arrowheads and other historical artifacts quite by accident, and a concerted search for them will often turn up at least a few things. But apparently, meth-heads are going so far as to violate gravesites and worse just to find the artifacts they are illegally trading.
Methamphetamine is a terrible drug and addicts can rarely kick the habit. The average lifespan of a meth addict is about seven years.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
While artifacts collection and trade is sometimes considered politically incorrect, there is a legal market for it. You can discover arrowheads and other historical artifacts quite by accident, and a concerted search for them will often turn up at least a few things. But apparently, meth-heads are going so far as to violate gravesites and worse just to find the artifacts they are illegally trading.
Methamphetamine is a terrible drug and addicts can rarely kick the habit. The average lifespan of a meth addict is about seven years.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Pic Shows Disembodied Head
I did not include the picture because I don't know to whom the rights belong, but you can see it here on The Sun's site.
A woman took a picture of a shark at an aquarium. When developed, the picture included an unmistakable, disembodied human head! While the head was not visible to the naked eye, it is no trick of the light or camera; it is definitely a human head, replete with eyes that appear to be looking at the camera! Very creepy.
A spokesperson said, "There’ll be a logical explanation. We just can’t find it."
The aquarium used to be a hospital isolation ward.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
A woman took a picture of a shark at an aquarium. When developed, the picture included an unmistakable, disembodied human head! While the head was not visible to the naked eye, it is no trick of the light or camera; it is definitely a human head, replete with eyes that appear to be looking at the camera! Very creepy.
A spokesperson said, "There’ll be a logical explanation. We just can’t find it."
The aquarium used to be a hospital isolation ward.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Jackass Cop Wants Job Back
The jackass cop who faked finding a bigfoot corpse wants his job back!
Mike Whitton filed an appeal of his termination, following his involvement in a highly-publicized bigfoot hoax he and a friend perpetrated over the summer. The chief of police says Whitton ruined his credibility with the stunt and that cases in which he was to be a key witness will likely be dropped.
Whitton is being sued over the incident.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Mike Whitton filed an appeal of his termination, following his involvement in a highly-publicized bigfoot hoax he and a friend perpetrated over the summer. The chief of police says Whitton ruined his credibility with the stunt and that cases in which he was to be a key witness will likely be dropped.
Whitton is being sued over the incident.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Saturday, October 11, 2008
More Most Haunted Live
Well, I watched a few other shows while it was on, but I did see most of last night's Most Haunted Live in Gettysburg and I have to admit... I was unimpressed.
Instead of actually investigating anything, they sat around most of the night drawing and playing with Ouija boards and planchettes. They relied solely on self-proclaimed "psychic mediums" and I somehow missed their use of any other tools or devices.
I saw no thermal imagery, heard no EVPs - well, none captured by the team - they did show evidence collected by others and some of it was fairly convincing, or at least exciting enough to warrant further investigation.
So Most Haunted Live is more an entertainment show than an actual parapsychological investigation - there is nothing wrong with that and it doesn't really purport to be anything but that. The problem I have is that we believers already have enough hurdles to overcome with skeptics and shows like this simply add more fuel to their fires.
The online chat was a blast and I look forward to more of those. The show itself was certainly decent background noise and I enjoyed having it on. But at the end of the day, I would rather watch seven hours of TAPS finding nothing than seven hours of these cats acting like Brian Harnois.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Instead of actually investigating anything, they sat around most of the night drawing and playing with Ouija boards and planchettes. They relied solely on self-proclaimed "psychic mediums" and I somehow missed their use of any other tools or devices.
I saw no thermal imagery, heard no EVPs - well, none captured by the team - they did show evidence collected by others and some of it was fairly convincing, or at least exciting enough to warrant further investigation.
So Most Haunted Live is more an entertainment show than an actual parapsychological investigation - there is nothing wrong with that and it doesn't really purport to be anything but that. The problem I have is that we believers already have enough hurdles to overcome with skeptics and shows like this simply add more fuel to their fires.
The online chat was a blast and I look forward to more of those. The show itself was certainly decent background noise and I enjoyed having it on. But at the end of the day, I would rather watch seven hours of TAPS finding nothing than seven hours of these cats acting like Brian Harnois.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Friday, October 10, 2008
Most Haunted Live
Well, the chat was an absolute blast, but the investigation is a little hokey.
These guys are such performers, it's hard to know what to buy and what to roll your eyes at. Right before they cut to another group or break, one of them always falls down, gets "touched," or is suddenly contacted by another entity, etc.
I skipped last year's Ghost Hunters Live Halloween Special because the one I saw the year before had some pretty glaring "FAKE!" moments. In particular, I recall seeing Steve give a visual cue to someone off-screen right before a break before realizing he was on camera when he did it. He stopped short and tried to play it off, but it didn't work.
Now, giving the benefit of the doubt, there is no telling what Steve was really doing or trying to communicate - but seeing as how I'd been watching for like three hours and nothing was happening and everyone basically knew it, it certainly seemed "obvious" that he was giving the "let's scream or something" indicator. With tonight's Most Haunted Live, they're a lot more... brazenly full of shit.
The sketchy psychic (the self-proclaimed psychic who doodles pictures while the others "investigate") was talking to the host earlier when he suddenly goes, "Who are you!? What are you doing here!? What do you want!?" Quickly, we swapped-out to Camera 2 for a pan, where we found the host on the ready with a, "We'll leave you to it while we go back now, live, to..."
They also spend a lot of time doing these cheeseball "seances" and shit. The one that really got to me was when this "psychic medium" or whatever said something about how an entity named "Mike" 'doesn't care what he's going to do tonight,' and the woman there immediately started taunting this entity. A moment later, the medium fell down dramatically, claiming Mike attacked him.
A lot of the people writing in are cheesy, too. They're all praying for their safety and claim to sense an Evil spirit over this one's left shoulder or that one's Western knee. Whatever.
Dear Most Haunted Live:
Let's dial it back a notch or 40, can we?
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
These guys are such performers, it's hard to know what to buy and what to roll your eyes at. Right before they cut to another group or break, one of them always falls down, gets "touched," or is suddenly contacted by another entity, etc.
I skipped last year's Ghost Hunters Live Halloween Special because the one I saw the year before had some pretty glaring "FAKE!" moments. In particular, I recall seeing Steve give a visual cue to someone off-screen right before a break before realizing he was on camera when he did it. He stopped short and tried to play it off, but it didn't work.
Now, giving the benefit of the doubt, there is no telling what Steve was really doing or trying to communicate - but seeing as how I'd been watching for like three hours and nothing was happening and everyone basically knew it, it certainly seemed "obvious" that he was giving the "let's scream or something" indicator. With tonight's Most Haunted Live, they're a lot more... brazenly full of shit.
The sketchy psychic (the self-proclaimed psychic who doodles pictures while the others "investigate") was talking to the host earlier when he suddenly goes, "Who are you!? What are you doing here!? What do you want!?" Quickly, we swapped-out to Camera 2 for a pan, where we found the host on the ready with a, "We'll leave you to it while we go back now, live, to..."
They also spend a lot of time doing these cheeseball "seances" and shit. The one that really got to me was when this "psychic medium" or whatever said something about how an entity named "Mike" 'doesn't care what he's going to do tonight,' and the woman there immediately started taunting this entity. A moment later, the medium fell down dramatically, claiming Mike attacked him.
A lot of the people writing in are cheesy, too. They're all praying for their safety and claim to sense an Evil spirit over this one's left shoulder or that one's Western knee. Whatever.
Dear Most Haunted Live:
Let's dial it back a notch or 40, can we?
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Most Haunted Live Chat Right Now!
We are in the Most Haunted Live Chat right now! The team is live, answering questions in real time. There is a problem with the feed right this moment, so I wanted to remind everyone while we wait for them to get it straightened out.
Come on and join us and make sure to watch tomorrow night's investigation on the Travel Channel!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Come on and join us and make sure to watch tomorrow night's investigation on the Travel Channel!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Is There Anybody Out There?
Social networking site, Bebo, held their A Message from Earth competition, from which 501 photos, drawings, and text messages were chosen to be transmitted to a planet some 20 light years from Earth.
A radio-telescope in the Ukraine, normally used to track asteroids, was used to transmit the content to the planet, though possibly capable of sustaining life. Organizers hope the binary "package" will reach Gliese 581C by 2029.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
A radio-telescope in the Ukraine, normally used to track asteroids, was used to transmit the content to the planet, though possibly capable of sustaining life. Organizers hope the binary "package" will reach Gliese 581C by 2029.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Mule Found Dead in Suitcase
A park worker made a grisly discovery when a leg popped out of a suitcase left in the park.
Apparently, a drug mule approximately 50-60 years of age died when a packet of heroin burst inside him. He was stuffed in a suitcase by party(s) unknown and left in a suburban New York park. Found inside the corpse was over 50 bags of heroin.
Police theorize fellow drug smugglers bought the suitcase and dumped the man because they did not want the drug dealers to cut open the body to retrieve the dope. "We've seen that on occasions in the past," said a police officer.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Apparently, a drug mule approximately 50-60 years of age died when a packet of heroin burst inside him. He was stuffed in a suitcase by party(s) unknown and left in a suburban New York park. Found inside the corpse was over 50 bags of heroin.
Police theorize fellow drug smugglers bought the suitcase and dumped the man because they did not want the drug dealers to cut open the body to retrieve the dope. "We've seen that on occasions in the past," said a police officer.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Ancient Peruvian Pyramid Spotted
Approximately a mile from Cahuachi, believed to be the largest mud city known, researchers discovered the outline of what may be another pyramid adobe just below the surface of the ground.
Using new remote sensing technology, the image was found among those taken by satellites in the area. The pyramid spotted appears to be nearly 100,000 square-feet and its architecture is said to resemble that of the Grand Pyramid.
Cahuachi was the capitol of the Nazca empire. The Nazca lines are a world-renowned set of images on the desert floor, visible only from the air. No one knows how nor why they were made.
Researchers believe this pyramid, like the others, may contain the remains of human sacrifices.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Using new remote sensing technology, the image was found among those taken by satellites in the area. The pyramid spotted appears to be nearly 100,000 square-feet and its architecture is said to resemble that of the Grand Pyramid.
Cahuachi was the capitol of the Nazca empire. The Nazca lines are a world-renowned set of images on the desert floor, visible only from the air. No one knows how nor why they were made.
Researchers believe this pyramid, like the others, may contain the remains of human sacrifices.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Water to Wine
Every year, the Italian town of Marino interrupts the water supply to flow wine through to the statues at the center of their Grape Festival. But due to a technical error this year, wine flowed from taps in peoples' homes for a full three minutes!
Many thought it was a gift from the town council, but it was simply an error that was quickly corrected. 10-12 homes experienced the "gift," along with the main local bar. The Grape Festival is held annually on the first Sunday in October to celebrate Admiral Marcantonio Colonna's return home following his victory over the Turks at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Many thought it was a gift from the town council, but it was simply an error that was quickly corrected. 10-12 homes experienced the "gift," along with the main local bar. The Grape Festival is held annually on the first Sunday in October to celebrate Admiral Marcantonio Colonna's return home following his victory over the Turks at the Battle of Lepanto in 1571.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Monday, October 6, 2008
Recycled Honeymoon
A couple in the UK wanted to go on a honeymoon but they couldn't afford it. They decided to recycle litter found around their town and put trade it in for airline miles. In the end, they managed to collect enough airline mile credits to go to New York and back!
"There was enough rubbish out there to fly us to the moon and back."
You can find the full story here.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
"There was enough rubbish out there to fly us to the moon and back."
You can find the full story here.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Technical
Things are underway once again over to the site (for the Halloween update), but so far things have been fairly steady here. In fact, they are steadier than they have been in months! Hopefully, I can keep this up for a while longer.
I am going to be making some sweeping changes to the blog itself one of these days soon. It really shouldn't affect you too much or for too long, but things will look a bit different. I found out that part of the reason we rank so low with Google is because we have so many outbound links and I want to change some of the advertising. Some elements will be rearranged but you shouldn't have too much problem finding everything.
Just thought I'd drop a line to let you know!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
I am going to be making some sweeping changes to the blog itself one of these days soon. It really shouldn't affect you too much or for too long, but things will look a bit different. I found out that part of the reason we rank so low with Google is because we have so many outbound links and I want to change some of the advertising. Some elements will be rearranged but you shouldn't have too much problem finding everything.
Just thought I'd drop a line to let you know!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Christ, the Magician
A bowl dated between the 2nd-Century BC and 1st-Century AD uncovered by archaeologists may contain the oldest known reference to Jesus Christ. It calls him a "magician."
This may prove that early Christianity and pagan religions were intertwined. The inscription, "DIA CHRSTOU O GOISTAIS" has been translated literally to mean "Christ, the magician."
Many books in the Bible refer to magi who practiced various forms of magickery. The bowl was likely a tool for divination. According to the discoverer, whoever owned the bowl may have been invoking the name of the Christ as "the primary exponent of white magic."
Other researchers have translated the inscription differently, associating it instead with various religious sects in the area at the time. "It should be remembered that in Alexandria, paganism, Judaism, and Christianity never evolved in isolation. All of these forms of religion (evolved) magical practices that seduced both the humble members of the population and the most well-off classes," one researcher noted.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
This may prove that early Christianity and pagan religions were intertwined. The inscription, "DIA CHRSTOU O GOISTAIS" has been translated literally to mean "Christ, the magician."
Many books in the Bible refer to magi who practiced various forms of magickery. The bowl was likely a tool for divination. According to the discoverer, whoever owned the bowl may have been invoking the name of the Christ as "the primary exponent of white magic."
Other researchers have translated the inscription differently, associating it instead with various religious sects in the area at the time. "It should be remembered that in Alexandria, paganism, Judaism, and Christianity never evolved in isolation. All of these forms of religion (evolved) magical practices that seduced both the humble members of the population and the most well-off classes," one researcher noted.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Rare Giant Salamanders Found in Washnigton
A water works crew for the Washington state city of Newcastle were shocked to find two Pacific giant salamanders.
The creatures are said to be rare to begin with and are nocturnal and elusive. However, several residents note they are familiar with the species and used to see them quite often in the 90s. The city has decided to post signs around drains requesting no dumping. The signs will bear logos of salmon and giant salamanders.
[NOTE: I know I could look it up, but I am a little busy; I included the "amphibians" tag but I do not know for certain that salamanders are amphibians. If I am wrong, please let me know. Thanks!]
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The creatures are said to be rare to begin with and are nocturnal and elusive. However, several residents note they are familiar with the species and used to see them quite often in the 90s. The city has decided to post signs around drains requesting no dumping. The signs will bear logos of salmon and giant salamanders.
[NOTE: I know I could look it up, but I am a little busy; I included the "amphibians" tag but I do not know for certain that salamanders are amphibians. If I am wrong, please let me know. Thanks!]
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
Most Haunted Live Chat - October 9
Thanks to the good people at Travel Channel, we are going to start covering Most Haunted on a regular basis. I would like to note that we are not being paid to do so; Most Haunted is not a sponsor of The Weirding or The OddBlog.
First up, they are in Pennsylvania for an investigation of one of the most famous sites of the Civil War, Gettysburg. They will be live on October 10th and the team will be doing a Live Chat Event on October 9th from 5-7pm, CST.
Make sure to join us!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
First up, they are in Pennsylvania for an investigation of one of the most famous sites of the Civil War, Gettysburg. They will be live on October 10th and the team will be doing a Live Chat Event on October 9th from 5-7pm, CST.
Make sure to join us!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Chicken Soup for the Panda
An official from the Wuhan Zoo said zookeepers there have been feeding their two pandas homemade chicken soup twice a month to ease stress and boost nutrition.
The Chinese are firm believers in chicken soup being good for health and said the pandas were reeling from a busy holiday week which drew large numbers of visitors. The soup was mixed into their normal diet of bamboo shoots and milk. The pandas are said to have enjoyed the dish and had no problems with digestion.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The Chinese are firm believers in chicken soup being good for health and said the pandas were reeling from a busy holiday week which drew large numbers of visitors. The soup was mixed into their normal diet of bamboo shoots and milk. The pandas are said to have enjoyed the dish and had no problems with digestion.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Finally, Some Sleep!
I finally slept last night!
As I reported yesterday, it was the first time in literally two or more weeks that I actually slept more than an hour or two. I feel refreshed, though still a bit worn-out. I figure it will be a few days before I truly get caught-up on my sleep and actually feel normal.
In the meantime, I will be bringing you some older stories throughout the weekend that I bookmarked but did not post when I came across. I'm sure some new stuff will pop-up along the way as well. But this is also the first of the month, which is bill time, so I have a full agenda with that alone.
The website will start seeing new stuff, as well (beyond the blogs), with a major release of new content on Halloween. This has been a tradition for The Weirding since our inception and one I plan to continue. Don't forget the site is comprised largely of blogs - check out the rest of our offerings!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
As I reported yesterday, it was the first time in literally two or more weeks that I actually slept more than an hour or two. I feel refreshed, though still a bit worn-out. I figure it will be a few days before I truly get caught-up on my sleep and actually feel normal.
In the meantime, I will be bringing you some older stories throughout the weekend that I bookmarked but did not post when I came across. I'm sure some new stuff will pop-up along the way as well. But this is also the first of the month, which is bill time, so I have a full agenda with that alone.
The website will start seeing new stuff, as well (beyond the blogs), with a major release of new content on Halloween. This has been a tradition for The Weirding since our inception and one I plan to continue. Don't forget the site is comprised largely of blogs - check out the rest of our offerings!
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Ho's Got a Point
The Dutch have developed a unique and extremely forward-thinking system for getting prostitutes into alternative employment:
They will start rewarding hookers in their red light districts "credits" for good behavior. These credits can be accrued and traded-in for designer clothes and furniture. In exchange, they must participate in a city-run program which helps them find different employment.
The prostitutes' union, the Red Thread, excitedly supports the program. The Dutch are trying to close their famous red light districts. The city in which this radical new program is being rolled-out plans to close its red light districts by 2011.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
They will start rewarding hookers in their red light districts "credits" for good behavior. These credits can be accrued and traded-in for designer clothes and furniture. In exchange, they must participate in a city-run program which helps them find different employment.
The prostitutes' union, the Red Thread, excitedly supports the program. The Dutch are trying to close their famous red light districts. The city in which this radical new program is being rolled-out plans to close its red light districts by 2011.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Caskets Spotted Near Big Lake
A Louisiana man on a fishing trip was shocked when he discovered five caskets floating in the mud surrounding Big Lake.
The man had left his boat when he spied a lifejacket and ice chest floating nearby. He came across the coffins while searching for the missing man. They had washed away from a nearby cemetery during Hurricane Ike.
Local coroners said they hoped to recover the coffins there, as well as others which floated ashore in Texas, sometime this week.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The man had left his boat when he spied a lifejacket and ice chest floating nearby. He came across the coffins while searching for the missing man. They had washed away from a nearby cemetery during Hurricane Ike.
Local coroners said they hoped to recover the coffins there, as well as others which floated ashore in Texas, sometime this week.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Insomnia
I have had insomnia for a few weeks now - the bad kind. This is not your typical, "I can't sleep" kind of problem most adults face at least every few months; this is the kind where you feel completely rundown the whole day long and when you finally lie down to sleep, you either toss and turn or you sleep for a few minutes and are up the rest of the night.
I have often gone through this in my adult life. In fact, it has gotten to where I basically expect it every few months or so, but of the more "sleep disrupted" variety I mentioned above. I find it difficult to sleep for a week or two, toss and turn most of the night, and generally can't function well while I am up. But this is the real kind: where you finally fall asleep around midnight, then wake up around 12:30am and are up until you finally fall asleep around midnight the next night.
I can't eat, I can't think, I don't feel like doing anything... it's just awful. Worst of all, the convenience store has nothing for sleep and the drugstore is already closed (because it's Wednesday and the entire town rolls-up at noon). So I am up and obviously working, I just don't know how good any of this is going to be once I finish it. I literally have to force myself to wash some of these dishes and do some other chores which I have put off doing since the weekend - it's starting to offend me!
But I just wanted to let you know why posts have been coming through at odd hours and all of that.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
I have often gone through this in my adult life. In fact, it has gotten to where I basically expect it every few months or so, but of the more "sleep disrupted" variety I mentioned above. I find it difficult to sleep for a week or two, toss and turn most of the night, and generally can't function well while I am up. But this is the real kind: where you finally fall asleep around midnight, then wake up around 12:30am and are up until you finally fall asleep around midnight the next night.
I can't eat, I can't think, I don't feel like doing anything... it's just awful. Worst of all, the convenience store has nothing for sleep and the drugstore is already closed (because it's Wednesday and the entire town rolls-up at noon). So I am up and obviously working, I just don't know how good any of this is going to be once I finish it. I literally have to force myself to wash some of these dishes and do some other chores which I have put off doing since the weekend - it's starting to offend me!
But I just wanted to let you know why posts have been coming through at odd hours and all of that.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Sea Eagles Eat Sheep
Sheep farmers in remote Northern Scotland are upset over a conservation plan that has been releasing once extinct sea eagles into the region because they feast on lambs up to one year old.
While they claim to have lost up to 200 lambs over the last five years, conservationists question that number. The sea eagles have a wingspan of up to 8-9' and can weigh up to nearly 20 lbs. Conservationists began releasing them back into the area in 1975, after they had been extinct in the region for most of the 20th-Century.
The eagles are a source of income for the area, bringing in tourists. Large sheep bones were found in nests, but conservationists say they were of a size to suggest they had been scavenged. They called the reported number of missing lambs "extremely surprising."
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
While they claim to have lost up to 200 lambs over the last five years, conservationists question that number. The sea eagles have a wingspan of up to 8-9' and can weigh up to nearly 20 lbs. Conservationists began releasing them back into the area in 1975, after they had been extinct in the region for most of the 20th-Century.
The eagles are a source of income for the area, bringing in tourists. Large sheep bones were found in nests, but conservationists say they were of a size to suggest they had been scavenged. They called the reported number of missing lambs "extremely surprising."
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
Hide the Skull
Three boys roaming through central Florida found a human skull in a field and hid it for about a week.
The boys were exploring in Titusville when they discovered the skull in an open field. Authorities were eventually told of its existence. The boys cooperated and showed police where they found the skull.
It is not known if it belonged to a man or woman and no charges have been filed against anyone at this time.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
The boys were exploring in Titusville when they discovered the skull in an open field. Authorities were eventually told of its existence. The boys cooperated and showed police where they found the skull.
It is not known if it belonged to a man or woman and no charges have been filed against anyone at this time.
© C Harris Lynn, 2008
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