Ball Lightning: Louise Matthews

Louise Matthews was lying on her couch in South Philadelphia during the summer of 1960 when she heard something sizzling.  She saw a large, red ball coming through her window, leaving the Venetian blinds undamaged.

The ball lightning (presumably) continued through Mrs. Matthews' living room into the dining room, where it exited the house through another closed window.  Again, the window was undamaged.

Mrs. Matthews later noticed that the back of her hand was burned.  The hair at the back of her head later fell out, leaving the skin beneath as smooth as that on her face.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Ball Lightning: The Death of a Researcher

According to Jerome Clark's well-researched Unexplained!, G.W. Richman was the first researcher to describe ball lightning in scientific literature.  He also became one of its few recorded victims. 

In 1754, Richman was attempting to measure the energy of a lightning strike.  Ball lightning formed from the electrodes of his equipment and floated toward his face, where it exploded with such a force that it killed him and knocked his assistant unconscious.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Ball Lightning: Paris, 1852

Probably the most renowned case of Ball Lightning occurred on July 5^th, 1852 in Paris. According to the tale, a ball of fire about the size of "a human head" came from the fireplace of a fourth-story apartment. The ball knocked the frame aside and darted across the room, seemingly toward the man, who described its actions as being "like a cat." It then moved to the center of the room before ascending slowly up the chimney. It exploded just before reaching the open air, nearly destroying the chimney. While the phenomenon was bright, it produced no heat.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Ghost Lights: Ball Lightning

Marfa Ghost Lights (Texas)

Ghost Lights are sometimes classified as ball lightning, especially when they appear indoors or during a thunderstorm.  Theories as to what comprises Ghost Lights include combustible methane (marsh gas), light from distant stars or planets refracting through atmospheric layers, headlights of traffic from a distance, concentrated magnetic force, nearby mineral deposits, and more -- however, most credible sightings of Ghost Lights defy explanation.  Ball lightning is often described as acting as though it were under intelligent control, or had a mind of its own.

However, most self-proclaimed atmospheric "experts" dismiss the ball lightning theory out-of-hand, noting that only surface similarities with Ghost Lights exist.  Ball lightning is a proven phenomenon that continues to intrigue researchers.  Strikes typically last under one to two minutes near, and after, a lightning strike or thunderstorm.  Many times, ball lightning dissipates violently, exploding with a sulfuric smell.

Ghost Lights, also known as faerie fires, are harmless and appear repeatedly in the same location over a lengthy period, regardless of atmospheric conditions.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Smugglers Attempt to Launch Drugs Over Border with Catapult

"It looks like a medieval catapult," Border Patrol spokesman, David Jimarez, told Reuters. He was speaking of a metal framed catapult that was attached to a sports utility vehicle Border agents seized from drug smugglers near Tucson. Agents seized 45 lbs. of marijuana from smugglers who were apparently attempting to launch the drugs into the States using the catapult.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

OTC Weight Loss

There are too many diet plans, books, and products on the market to list. Some of them work for some but not others, while some programs seem not to work well for anyone. However, unless you have serious obesity issues, you shouldn't need a prescription. There really are over the counter that work, you just have to know which ones they are. Check out this guide to learn more.

Body of Popular Gameshow Host Stolen

A regular visitor to the grave of popular Italian gameshow host, Mike Bongiorno, alerted police that the grave had been vandalized and emptied. Authorities say no ransom has been demanded as of yet. Bongiorno hosted Italy's top quiz show for over 50 years and helped launch commercial television in the country.

In 2001, the body of an investment banker was stolen and the thieves demanded a ransom. They were captured and prosecuted.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Mexican Druglord Thanks American Officials for Keeping Drugs Illegal

Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman Loera, the alleged head of the Snialoa drug cartel in Mexico, publicly thanked American officials for keeping drugs illegal, supposedly noting to a confidant, "I couldn't have gotten so stinking rich without George Bush, George Bush Jr., Ronald Reagan, even El Presidente Obama." Mexico's President Calderon is conversely condemning the same officials for not legalizing drugs, as "Prohibition [creates] gangsters." President Calderon told a confidant.

Notice that this is literally "information;" this was reported by sources claiming to be close to the primary source. This is from an article in The Huffington Post. While the sentiment is correct, the piece may be a plant. Or it may be the level of "journalism" we can expect online.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Police Searching for Serial Killer in LI

Authorities stumbled over the bodies of four prostitutes in Long Island while searching for another missing girl.  All of the women had posted ads on Craigslist.  Their corpses, in various stages of decay, were all found within a quarter-mile range.  Police are offering a reward for information leading to a suspect.

On May 1^st, a resident in the area called 911 after a girl 'who looked like she'd been partying all night' banged on his door, screaming someone was after her.  She ran away into the woods and has not been seen since.

Argentinian Woman Survives 23-Story Fall

A 33-year-old Argentinian woman survived a fall from the 23^rd-story when she landed on top of a taxi. The cabbie driving the taxi said he noticed a policeman looking up at the woman before she jumped. The cab driver fled the taxi moments before the woman came crashing down on top of it. "If I hadn't got out, I'd be dead," he told reporters. The woman is in intensive care.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

'Pear-Shaped' UFO Spotted in Scotland

George King says he witnessed a UFO, possibly even two, in Scotland on January 2^nd. While sitting in his car, he noticed two, low-flying "orange lights -- one smaller than the other" headed toward his car. He assumed they were the lights of a police helicopter, but they made no noise and "suddenly shot up skywards right in front of me."

King leapt from his car to phone his son when he noticed what may have been a second UFO, or possibly the original UFO he had just seen, heading toward nearby Hamilton/Strathaven, which he described as a "pear-shaped bubble-type thing."

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Sharks Spotted on Queensland Main Street

Two eyewitnesses say they spotted bull sharks swimming down the flooded streets of Goodna, a small town in the Queensland area in Australia. The Queensland area was inundated by floods, with water reaching as high as 25' in some places. Authorities say the witnesses are reliable and note that bull sharks are known to swim up the nearby Bremer and Brisbane Rivers.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Junkie Thieves Snort Cremains

Five junkies were arrested in conjunction with at least two robberies in the same Florida neighborhood after one victim complained that the cremated remains of her father and two dogs were missing. Investigators learned the five thieves has mistaken the "cremains" (a word I've never before heard, and do not know if it is correct) for either cocaine or heroin and snorted some of them before discarding them in a nearby lake.

Divers recovered two wooden boxes containing the "cremains" of the victim's father and one Great Dane, which were returned to her. The junkie thieves had mixed some of the ashes while trying to snort them, but the victim was happy for their return nonetheless.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Operation Spiderman Nabs Criminal

37-year-old German nationalist, Sven Koppler, admitted to mailing hundreds of spiders to undercover agents in a sting dubbed "Operation Spiderman." The spiders, which included tarantulas and species protected by international treaties, were mailed to both US and Mexican agents from Germany, but they say Koppler has mailed countless spiders to buyers around the world and received at least $300,000 for his crimes.

Koppler was arrested in Los Angeles when he arrived to meet an associate. He faces a possible 20-year prison sentence when he faces a judge in April.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Atheists, Agnostics Angrier at God

According to new research, it appears that agnostics and atheists get mad at God more often than believers. Believers are more apt to accept what they believe is "God's plan," although they admit to being angry at God throughout their lives, as well. Anger at "the image of God -- what they imagined God to be like" is most common amongst non-believers and the bereaved.

The lead study was authored by psychologist, Julie Exline, who is continuing research which is open to more participants.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Caligula's Tomb Found

Authorities stopped a man who was stealing a statue that turned out to be the likeness of none other than the infamous emperor, Caligula. Estimated to be worth some €1m, the statue is made of rare Greek marble and depicts the emperor garbed in god's robes seated on a throne.

Under questioning, the thief lead police to the tomb. Experts are convinced it is Caligula's, as he had a villa, floating palace, floating temple, and other holdings in the area. Excavations of the tomb have begun.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Monk Caught with 'Saint's Skeleton

A Cypriot monk was detained at a Greek airport when a skeleton was discovered in his luggage. The remains were those of a nun who had died four years prior. The monk said she was a saint and he was taking her remains to Cyprus. Remains of saints are often displayed and revered by believers in the Greek Orthodoxy.

However, the nun was considered a saint by neither the Greek nor Cypriot Orthodoxy, proper. A sect may have ordained her so, though. Cyprus' Archbishop said it sounded like "the work of charlatans with a financial interest."

The monk was charged with theft and desecration of the dead, misdemeanors in Greece. He was also suspended from his duties for three months.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Iran Bans Valentine's Day

Iranian authorities have issued proclamations banning the manufacture and sale of Valentine's Day gifts and items. According to the writs, Valentine's Day is not "banned," but it is not allowed. Authorities say their ancient culture already celebrates "kindness, love, and affection" with several holidays. Which is weird, because members of the opposite sex are not allowed to associate unless they are married.

Authorities are specifically concerned with stopping the spread of Western culture in the region. Valentine's Day has become quite popular. Authorities said those who do not comply will face legal charges.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Diet Pill Warning

This is a site that claims to expose the "truth" behind powerful diet pills and health aids. Many have the same ingredients and not all of them are listed. Besides, most people would not know what in the world those ingredients are, do, or mean! If you go to the warning website (just follow that link), you will find information on ingredients, ratings for popular pills and systems, and much more.

However, I urge you to do your own research and speak with a professional if you are serious about losing weight.

Ghost Adventures - Bonnie Springs Ranch

Bonnie Springs Ranch in Blue Diamond, Nevada, was built in the 1960s on top of a trail that was a stop-over for travelers heading to the west coast in the 1800s.  Traveling the old Spanish trail was an extremely dangerous task.  Numerous travelers died from attacks, sickness, and exposure to the elements.

The travelers went through a lot of mental, physical, and emotional pain which could explain the odd occurrences that frequently happen at Bonnie Springs today.  Recent visitors and investigators have reported hearing voices, odd feelings -- one even left with large scratches down her back!

One witness, who has worked around the ranch for 30 years, claims he once saw the merry-go-round on the playground spinning on its own.  As he approached the merry-go-round to get a better look, it came to a sudden, dead stop!  This experience, and many more, have convinced him that there is a strong spiritual force at the Bonnie Springs Ranch.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

25'+ Crocodile in Queensland Area

Pastor Elton Thompson is known for his love of crocodiles, which are plentiful in the Queensland, Australia region. In late November, 2010, Pastor Thompson photographed crocodile tracks alongside the Norman River in Normanton. The measurements lead experts to estimate the creature's size at over 8m length, and 1¹/₂ to 2 meters wide! Though Pastor Thompson admits he has not seen the crocodile himself, several in the area claim to have and he believes the beast may even have been filmed and/or photographed by one or more of these witnesses.

A replica of a slightly larger crocodile reportedly shot in the 1950s dominates the town's main street. Pastor Thompson says the creature he is tracking is comparable in size. The Queensland area was inundated with torrential rains and flooding last week, meaning the giant reptile could be anywhere by now. However, Pastor Thompson noted residents were not concerned with the creature when they knew it to be in the river, as crocodiles are common to the region.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Injury 'Cures' Paraplegic

Monique van der Vorst is a two-time Paralympic silver medalist, but she won't be going back for a third. During a training session, Ms. van der Vorst was struck by a sprint cyclist. Following the accident, she discovered she could feel her legs. Shortly afterward, Monique van der Vorst took her first steps in years.

Doctors do not know exactly how the dramatic turnaround came about, but van der Vorst had been paralyzed from the waist down for nearly half her life, thanks to an earlier accident.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Fox Turns Tables on Hunter

A hunter in Belarus shot and wounded a fox, but dropped his gun when he went in for the kill.  The hunter had advanced on the fox, intending to kill it with the butt of his gun, but the wounded animal fought fiercely.  The gun discharged when the fox accidentally hit the trigger.

The unidentified hunter was being treated for a gunshot wound to the leg.  The fox got away.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Big Cats in Edinburgh

Several eyewitnesses discovered large cat prints in the snow in Edinburgh, Scotland earlier in the week. Some experts suggest melting snow may have distorted the suggested size of the cat that made them, but others note that there have been several recent sightings of large cats in the area over the last few years.

Some say they suspect lynx, puma, and even leopards are present in the area. Sightings surrounding the area made headlines in 2004, 2005, and 2009.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Ghost Adventures - Return to the Goldfield Hotel

This Friday, Zak, Nick, and Aaron return to a place that is notorious among Ghost Adventures fans: Goldfield, Nevada, is where Zak and Nick conducted one of their first investigations.  The Goldfield Hotel is where they caught the infamous clip of a flying brick.  Since that day, Zak and Nick have always wanted to return to the location of their very first ghost adventure.

However, the Goldfield Hotel is not all about warm memories.  There are former workers who are terrified to enter the premises.  During the pre-lockdown investigation, a former custodian admits to Nick that she was recently attacked in her home by a spirit that she believes followed her from the hotel. 

She also believes the attack was a warning for Zak, Nick, and Aaron.

The building has more than its share of dark history: The hotel's owner, George Wingfeild, was one of the most powerful men in Nevada during California's historical Gold Rush.  He is famous for operating a mining company in Goldfield, but also infamous for his crimes.  Wingfeild kept a young prostitute named Elizabeth hostage in the hotel while she was pregnant with his child.  Shortly after giving birth, both Elizabeth and her child were found dead.  Many people still believe Elizabeth and her baby were murdered by George Wingfield.

Though the Ghost Adventures crew are very excited to return to Goldfield, they are also worried, because the spirits have had six years to plan for their return.  This is definitely an episode you don't want to miss!

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Snowstorm, Trash Pile Saves Would-Be Suicide

A suicidal man who leapt from a ninth-story window in New York City landed in a large pile of uncollected trash which saved his life. The young man had mental illness issues and had spent time in a mental hospital prior to his suicide attempt.

A snowstorm halted trash collection in New York City over the Christmas holidays, leaving trash piled several feet high in some places. The man was worried about being evicted from his apartment which may have been the stress factor which prompted him to attempt suicide.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Man Shot in Head, Sneezes Bullet

An Italian man who caught a stray bullet in the head during a New Year's celebration actually sneezed the bullet while waiting for the doctor!

28-year-old Darco Sangermano was rushed to a hospital when a .22-caliber bullet struck him in the head and lodged itself behind his eye. As he waited for doctors to see him, Sangermano sneezed and spat the bullet from his nose. Doctors say he suffered no permanent damage.

Doctors say Sangermano's skull slowed the impact of the bullet, which slid around it.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Ghost Adventures - Pico House Hotel

The Pico House Hotel in Los Angeles has seen everything from lavish parties to a bloody race riot at it's doorstep. The building's history reaches back to before Los Angeles was a part of the United States. The Ghost Adventures crew will team up with the Hollywood Ghost Hunters to tackle the Pico House Hotel's dramatic history. Kane Hodder ("Jason"), R.A. Mihailoff ("Leatherface"), and stuntman Rick McCallum join Zak, Nick, and Aaron for the very first paranormal lockdown at this hotel.

In 1880, a shootout between Chinese gangs resulted in the death of an anglo police officer. There were already strong racial tensions in the community and the accident fueled the fire. What resulted was a bloody, racially-charged riot that led to the deaths of 19 people right in front of the Pico House Hotel. The angry and violent energy from that riot continues to have an effect on the hotel today.

One guard recalls hearing noises on the floor below him. As he walked down the stairs to investigate the noise, he was violently kicked in the back by an unseen force. He promptly quit his job the next morning. 

Maybe Jason from Friday the 13^th and Leatherface from Texas Chainsaw Massacre III can draw these violent spirits out to play.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Researchers Find Evidence for Mental Time-Travel

Chronosthesia is the theoretical psychic ability to mentally travel forward and backward through time, but has remained laughably dismissed by the scientific community as a whole. Now though, an international team of researchers claims to have discovered proof that such a phenomena does exist.

Specifically, the team discovered that the areas of the brain which were stimulated when subjects were asked to think about the past or future were the same. In short, it appears that the team has found some scant and initially exciting evidence for chronosthesia, though they caution their findings need additional data and evaluation before any conclusive answers will become apparent.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010

Unknown Creature Discovered in Louisville, KY

Mark Cothren shot and killed a strange animal on his Kentucky property on December 18^th, 2010, and no one is certain what the creature is! While many have guessed everything from raccoon to dog, the Chupacabra seems to be everyone's favorite choice.

I actually think the creature looks like a kangaroo infected with mange.

© C Harris Lynn, 2011

Happy New Year!

I hope everyone had a safe and fun New Year.  I did all but nothing, though I was awake when the clock turned the corner.  Actually, this year, I did eat black-eyed peas and collard greens.  Not sure what either is supposed to do, but I was told that eating greens is supposed to ensure a financially successful year, and God knows I could use about 20 of those in a row, so I figured what the heck?

Let us look forward to this new year with high hopes.... and shit.

© C Harris Lynn, 2010