poltergeist

Anthony

Poltergeist: When TV, Suburbia, and Burial Grounds Collide

Poltergeist is a horror classic that serves up scares with a side of suburban commentary. But it’s not just ghosts haunting the Freeling family’s new home – it’s a tangled web of buried secrets and questionable development practices.

At the heart of it all is TV – the instigator of unease in this film. It’s hard to avoid, and in Poltergeist, it’s the gateway to the afterlife. And let’s be real, who hasn’t been scared of their TV malfunctioning or feeling like it’s watching them?

The suburbs are also a co-star in this horror flick. They’re supposed to be safe and predictable, but in both Poltergeist and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, they’re a false floor hiding supernatural horrors. And let’s not forget about the greed and over-consumption that can come with suburban living, as the Freelings willingly show off with their new swimming pool and TVs everywhere.

poltergeist a family is attacked by evil entities

And then there’s the burial ground. The development company relocates the headstones and leaves the bodies behind – a disrespectful move that sets the stage for the haunting of the Freelings. Carol Anne’s bright life force and the scary tree that watches them only add to the terror.

But despite all the explanations and theories, it’s the things we don’t know and can’t avoid that add to the Poltergeist’s sense of dread. And let’s be honest, we’ll never look at a TV or suburban home the same way again.

Fun fact: The film’s abrupt cut scene in the Freeling’s kitchen was supposedly due to a negative reaction by Pizza Hut. Who knew pizza could be so scary?

Yes, you read that right. Pizza Hut apparently didn’t like the idea of their food being eaten in a haunted kitchen. But who can blame them? Pizza tastes better when it’s not accompanied by ghostly whispers or poltergeists.

And let’s not forget about the family dog, Eboz, who serves as a clever camera device at the start of the film. He visits each family member while they sleep, but there’s a bit of a goof when someone walks in front of Dana’s door right before Eboz enters. Oops.

But the real scare in Poltergeist comes from the haunting itself – the playful ghosts that turn into malevolent spirits, the tornado that marks the turning point, and the repeated debates about whether or not Carol Anne should go into the light. It’s enough to make you want to avoid TV, suburbs, and burial grounds altogether.

But in the end, it’s Diane who saves the day (and Carol Anne) through a repeat birth in the bathtub. It’s a visual metaphor that peaks with the scene in the tub, and leaves us with the feeling that the suburban dream is well and truly over.

Poltergeist may be a horror classic, but it’s also a commentary on our relationship with technology, suburbia, and the afterlife. And it’s a reminder that buried secrets have a way of coming back to haunt us – quite literally. So, if you’re ever house hunting and the development company says they relocated the headstones but left the bodies, just say no. It’s not worth the haunting.

Dark Side of Dreams

Anthony

The Dark Side of Dreams

When it comes to the dark side of dreams, there’s nothing quite like experiencing a nightmare in real life. It’s a feeling of dread and unease that can be hard to shake off, even when you wake up. I’m no stranger to dark and disturbing dreams. In fact, they often provide inspiration for my stories. But I also know firsthand how terrifying it can be when those nightmares spill over into reality.

The first thing to understand is that dreams are a window into our subconscious. They can reveal fears and anxieties that we might not even be aware of in our waking life. In some cases, they can even be a warning sign of something that’s going on in our lives that we need to pay attention to. But sometimes, they’re just a manifestation of our deepest, darkest fears.

One of the most common themes in the dark side of dreams is a feeling of helplessness. It’s that feeling of being trapped or powerless in the face of some unseen threat. Whether it’s a monster lurking in the shadows or a faceless attacker chasing you down a dark alley, the fear of being unable to defend yourself is a primal one. And when you wake up, that feeling can linger long after the dream is over.

Another common element of unsettling dreams is a sense of dread or foreboding. It’s that feeling that something terrible is about to happen, even if you can’t quite put your finger on what it is. It’s the feeling of being watched, or the sensation that something is just out of sight, waiting to pounce. And again, when you wake up, that feeling can be hard to shake.

But perhaps the most unsettling thing about these dark dreams is how they can bleed over into real life. Have you ever had a dream that was so vivid and terrifying that you woke up still feeling like it was real? Maybe you felt like someone was in the room with you, or that you were still being chased by that faceless attacker. It’s a feeling that can be hard to shake, and it can color your entire day. The dark side of our dreams have a way of creeping in to our everyday lives.

In some cases, these dark dreams can even have physical effects on our bodies. We might wake up feeling sweaty or with a racing heart. We might have trouble sleeping, or we might be plagued by nightmares for days or even weeks afterward. And for some people, these unsettling dreams can even lead to anxiety and depression.

So what can we do about it? Unfortunately, there’s no easy answer. For some people, simply talking about their dreams can help to lessen their impact. For others, it might be a matter of learning to confront their fears head-on, whether through therapy or simply by facing their fears in real life. And for others still, it might be a matter of finding ways to channel that fear and anxiety into something creative, like writing or painting. I’ve certainly found that last option to be the most effective.

Dark Side of Dreams
The dark side of dreams shown here depicts a decrepit hospital, a fear of ours or another’s health failing.

By taking the fears and anxieties that I experience in my dreams and channeling them into my stories, I’ve been able to transform something negative into something positive. But I also know that not everyone is wired that way. For some people, these dark dreams will always be a source of fear and anxiety.

In the end, I think the most important thing is to remember that you’re not alone. Everyone has unsettling dreams from time to time. It’s a normal part of the human experience. And while they can be scary and unsettling, they can also be a source of inspiration and creativity.

So the next time you wake up from a dark dream feeling shaken and uneasy, take a deep breath and remember that you’re not alone. And who knows? Maybe you’ll be able to turn that fear and unease into something amazing, something that will stay with you long after the dream is over. Because at the end of the day, that’s what we do: we take the darkness and turn it into something beautiful.

In conclusion, the dark side of dreams present terrifying and unsettling experiences, but they can also be a source of creativity and inspiration. I know firsthand how important it is to embrace our fears and anxieties, to take the darkness and turn it into something that will stay with us and our readers long after the nightmare is over. So the next time you have a dark dream, try to see it as an opportunity. It might just be the inspiration you need to create something truly amazing.

Valentine's Day

Anthony

Valentine’s Day is Creepy

Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on February 14th, is a holiday renowned for love, romance, and affection. But beyond the surface, there lies a darker and more mysterious history that has yet to be fully understood. From pagan rituals to Christian martyrs, the origins of this holiday are shrouded in enigma, making it one of the most intriguing celebrations of the year.

The Unseen Origins of Valentine’s Day

The precise origins of Valentine’s Day have remained a mystery for centuries. Some historians believe that it originated from an ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, held in mid-February, which celebrated the coming of spring and involved various rituals, including the exchange of love notes and gifts. However, others believe that the holiday was created to honor Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr executed for his beliefs during the Roman Empire.

But there are those who claim that the true origins of Valentine’s Day lie beyond the realm of history and into the realm of the paranormal. According to legend, the holiday was created by the Romans to commemorate a powerful vampire who lived among them and was revered for his ability to bring love and happiness to those he encountered. The vampire, known as Valentine, is said to have had the power to bring people together, and it is believed that the holiday was created in his honor to commemorate his legacy.

The Evolving Nature of the Holiday

Over the centuries, Valentine’s Day has undergone numerous changes and transformations. During the Middle Ages, the holiday was primarily celebrated by the Catholic Church and was used as an opportunity to spread messages of love and devotion. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it became more commercialized, with the creation of cards, gifts, and sweets.

But the true meaning of the holiday has remained shrouded in mystery. Some believe that it is a celebration of love and romance, while others believe that it is a tribute to the paranormal and the unknown. Regardless of its true meaning, the holiday continues to evolve and has taken on a more romantic connotation in recent years.

The Paranormal Traditions of the Holiday

Valentine’s Day is celebrated differently in different countries, and the paranormal traditions of the holiday vary greatly from place to place. In some countries, it is believed that the holiday is a time when the veil between the living and the dead is at its thinnest, and spirits are free to roam the earth. In others, it is believed that the holiday is a time when love spells are at their most powerful, and couples can use them to bind themselves together for all eternity.

Regardless of the traditions, one thing remains clear: Valentine’s Day has a strong connection to the paranormal and the unknown. From ghostly apparitions to unexplained love spells, the holiday is steeped in mystery and intrigue, making it one of the most fascinating celebrations of the year.

The Dark Side of Valentine’s Day

Despite its reputation as a holiday of love and romance, Valentine’s Day has a dark side. The holiday has been associated with acts of violence and murder, and there have been reports of domestic abuse and violence on Valentine’s Day in recent years. But there is another, even darker side to the holiday that is not often talked about: the paranormal.

According to legend, the holiday is a time when the veil between the living and the dead is at its thinnest, and spirits are free to roam the earth. This makes it a dangerous time for those who are not careful, as the spirits are said to be vengeful and unpredictable. It is also a time when love spells are at their most powerful, and those who practice dark magic may use this energy to cast spells that cause harm to others. The dark side of Valentine’s Day is a reminder that even the most romantic of holidays can have a sinister side.

The Future of Valentine’s Day

Despite its mysterious and sometimes dark history, Valentine’s Day remains one of the most popular holidays of the year. As technology continues to advance, it is likely that the holiday will continue to evolve and that new traditions will emerge. But one thing is for sure: the connection between Valentine’s Day and the paranormal will remain, making it a holiday that is both loved and feared.

Conclusion

Valentine’s Day is a holiday that has been celebrated for centuries and has a rich and mysterious history. From its pagan origins to its modern-day celebration, this holiday is a fascinating mixture of love, romance, and the paranormal. Whether you’re a romantic or a skeptic, there’s no denying that Valentine’s Day has a special place in our hearts and will continue to be celebrated for years to come. So, embrace the enigma and let the mystery of Valentine’s Day unfold before you.

Leonard Bernstein

Anthony

Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein
Leonard Bernstein

Leonard Bernstein, one of the most influential figures in the world of music, was born in Massachusetts to Jewish immigrants from Russia. Despite his father’s desire for him to pursue a career in the family’s beauty supply business, Bernstein chose to follow his passion for music.

He studied at Harvard University and spent the summers of 1940 and 1941 working with his mentor, Serge Koussevitzky, at Tanglewood.

In 1943, Leonard Bernstein was appointed as the New York Philharmonic’s assistant conductor and made his conducting debut when he stepped in for the ailing Bruno Walter. This performance made him an overnight sensation and marked the beginning of his illustrious career.

Throughout his nearly fifty-year career, Leonard Bernstein made significant contributions to the world of music. His First Symphony (Jeremiah) was voted the best new American orchestral work by the New York Music Critics’ Circle for 1943-44. He also composed the beloved musical On the Town, which ran for over a year on Broadway, and collaborated with Stephen Sondheim on the masterpiece West Side Story in 1957. He also served as the music director and chief conductor of the New York Philharmonic from 1958 to 1969, and as a conductor laureate of the New York and Israel Philharmonics.

In addition to his work as a conductor and composer, Leonard Bernstein was also a gifted pianist and an influential music teacher. His Young People’s Concerts, which were televised to millions in the 1960s, helped to introduce classical music to new audiences.

Leonard Bernstein
Leonard Bernstein

When it came time for Leonard Bernstein to choose his final resting place, he selected Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York. While the cemetery was originally founded as a nonsectarian Christian cemetery, it has also become the final resting place for a number of Jewish individuals, including Bernstein.

Despite his deep connection to his Jewish faith, which is reflected in several of his compositions, including Kaddish, Bernstein also had a great interest in Catholicism. This is evident in his composition of Mass, which was performed at the opening of the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. in 1971.

At Green-Wood Cemetery, Bernstein’s grave is a peaceful and serene final resting place for the legendary musician. Visitors can pay their respects and reflect on the incredible contributions he made to the world of music.

The Legacy of Leonard Bernstein

Bernstein’s legacy continues to live on through his compositions and recordings, as well as the many musicians and conductors he mentored during his illustrious career. His innovative approach to classical music and his ability to make it accessible to new audiences have had a profound impact on the world of music.

Visiting Leonard Bernstein’s grave at Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood Cemetery is open to visitors daily from 8am to 5pm. Bernstein’s grave can be found in the section of the cemetery known as “Section G, Lot 43642”.

Remembering Leonard Bernstein

The Leonard Bernstein Office and the Leonard Bernstein Society are dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of Leonard Bernstein. They do this by promoting his music, providing educational resources and organizing events and concerts. These organizations strive to keep the memory of Bernstein alive and to continue to inspire new generations with his music.

One way to pay tribute to Leonard Bernstein is by listening to his compositions. His music is a reflection of his unique voice as a composer and conductor, and it continues to resonate with audiences today. From his early works such as the First Symphony (Jeremiah) to his later compositions like Mass and Kaddish, Bernstein’s music is a testament to his enduring talent and creativity.

Another way to remember Bernstein is by attending performances of his works. Whether it’s a concert performance of one of his symphonies or a production of his musicals, Bernstein’s music continues to be performed on stages around the world. This is a great way to experience the music firsthand and to understand the impact it has had on audiences over the years.

Additionally, supporting music education programs that introduce new generations to Bernstein’s music is another way to keep his legacy alive. Many music education programs rely on the support of individuals and organizations to continue their work, and by supporting these programs, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to experience and appreciate the music of Leonard Bernstein.

Overall, remembering Leonard Bernstein can be done through listening to his compositions, attending performances of his works and supporting music education programs that introduce new generations to his music. These actions can help to keep his legacy alive and ensure that his impact on the world of music will be felt for generations to come.

UFO Hunting

Anthony

UFO Hunting Ultimate Guide

Are you fascinated by the possibility of extraterrestrial life and want to join the search for UFOs? Look no further, as this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to become a successful UFO hunter, or even paranormal investigator.

Understanding UFOs

Before embarking on your UFO hunt, it’s important to have a basic understanding of what UFOs are and the different types that have been reported. UFOs, or unidentified flying objects, are any flying object that cannot be identified by the observer. This can include aircraft, drones, and even weather balloons. However, when most people think of UFOs, they are typically referring to those that are believed to be of extraterrestrial origin.

There are several different types of UFOs that have been reported. The most common type is the “flying saucer” shape, which is described as a disc or circular shape. Other shapes that have been reported include triangles, spheres, and cylinders. Additionally, there are also reports of “black triangles,” which are large, triangular shaped craft with bright lights at each corner.

Equipment and UFO Hunting Techniques

In order to effectively hunt for UFOs, you will need to have the right equipment and techniques. The most important piece of equipment you will need is a good quality camera. This can be a digital camera, a DSLR, or even a smartphone camera. Make sure that the camera has a good zoom lens and manual controls for adjusting the shutter speed and aperture.

Other equipment you may want to consider include:

  • Binoculars or a telescope for distant sightings
  • A tripod to steady your camera during long exposures
  • A flashlight or headlamp for night sightings
  • A notebook and pen for recording observations and taking notes

When it comes to techniques, the most important thing when UFO hunting is to be observant and keep a watchful eye for any unusual flying objects. It’s also important to record as much information as possible about any sightings, including the time, location, and any identifying features of the object.

There are certain locations around the world that are known for having a high number of UFO sightings. Some of the most popular hotspots include:

  • Area 51 in Nevada, USA
  • Roswell, New Mexico, USA
  • Rendlesham Forest in Suffolk, England
  • The Hessdalen Valley in Norway
  • The Pyramids in Egypt

While these locations may have a higher likelihood of sightings, UFOs can be hunted anywhere, at any time. It’s important to remember to always be on the lookout and to never discount any potential sightings. With the right equipment, techniques, and a little bit of luck, you too can join the ranks of successful UFO hunters.

UFO Sightings

Anthony

UFO Sightings Surge Due to FAA Rule Change

In recent years, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has made significant changes to their regulations surrounding the operation of small unmanned aircraft systems (sUAS), also known as drones. These changes, which were aimed at increasing safety and security for both operators and the general public, have had unintended consequences that have caused a surge in sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs).

According to a report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), there has been a significant spike in UFO sightings since the FAA’s “Operation of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems Over People” rule change went into effect. The report states that the intelligence community has reviewed a total of 510 UFO sightings over the past few years, a significant increase from the 144 they had investigated before the rule change in March 2021.

Many of the newly reported sightings were explained by balloons, drones, or other natural phenomena such as birds or plastic bags. However, a significant number of sightings, 171 to be exact, were marked “uncharacterized and unattributed.” These sightings are particularly concerning as they seem to have demonstrated unusual flight characteristics or performance capabilities, and require further analysis.

The ODNI attributes this surge in UFO sightings to a “concentrated effort to destigmatize the topic” of UFOs and an increased awareness that UFO encounters may pose risks as both a “flight hazard and potential adversarial activity.” Most of the new sightings came from military pilots or operators, according to the report.

It is clear that the FAA’s rule change has had a significant impact on the number of UFO sightings reported. The agency must now work to address this issue by conducting further analysis of these unexplained sightings and implementing measures to mitigate the risks they may pose. The FAA should take steps to correct misinformation. Additionally, the FAA should also consider ways to improve the identification and tracking of drones and other sUAS to reduce the likelihood of misidentification as UFOs.

In conclusion, while the FAA’s rule change was aimed at increasing safety and security, it has also led to a surge in UFO sightings. These unexplained sightings pose a potential threat to national security and require further investigation and analysis. The FAA must take steps to address this issue and improve the identification and tracking of drones to reduce the likelihood of misidentification as UFOs.

FAA Source.

Science Behind Ghost Hunting

Anthony

The Science Behind Ghost Hunting

The pursuit of understanding the paranormal has been a topic of interest for centuries, and one of the primary methods for investigating these phenomena is through ghost hunting. Ghost hunting, or paranormal investigation, is the process of gathering evidence of the existence of ghosts, spirits, or other supernatural entities.

This can be done through a variety of means, including the use of equipment specifically designed for ghost hunting. In this article, we will delve into the science behind ghost hunting equipment, from its earliest beginnings to its current state of development.

The earliest forms of ghost hunting equipment date back to the 1800s. These early tools were relatively simple and included items such as Ouija boards, pendulums, and dowsing rods.

These tools were based on the belief that ghosts or spirits could communicate with the living through these devices. Ouija boards, for example, were thought to allow spirits to spell out messages through the movement of a planchette.

Science Behind Ghost Hunting

Similarly, pendulums and dowsing rods were believed to be able to detect the presence of ghosts or spirits through subtle movements. While these early tools were popular among ghost hunters of the time, they have since been largely discredited by scientific research.

The introduction of photography in the late 1800s marked a significant advancement in ghost hunting equipment. Photographers began using cameras to capture images of supposed ghostly apparitions. This led to the development of specialized cameras, such as the Kirlian camera, which was designed to capture images of auras. However, these early photographic techniques were often subject to manipulation and trickery, and the supposed ghostly images captured were later found to be hoaxes or photographic errors.

The 20th century saw the development of more sophisticated ghost hunting equipment. The most notable of these was the electromagnetic field (EMF) meter, which was developed in the 1930s. EMF meters measure the presence of electromagnetic fields, which some believe to be indicative of the presence of ghosts or spirits. The use of EMF meters, along with other equipment such as infrared cameras and audio recorders, became popular in the 1970s with the rise of the paranormal research and investigation groups.

Today, ghost hunting organizations such as the Brooklyn Paranormal Society use a variety of equipment to conduct investigations. This includes not just EMF meters, but also temperature and motion sensors, night vision cameras, and Geiger counters. Many of these devices are specifically designed for ghost hunting, and are used to detect and measure various types of energy that are thought to be associated with ghostly activity.

Science Behind Ghost Hunting

While the science behind ghost hunting equipment has come a long way since the days of Ouija boards and dowsing rods, it is important to note that the validity of many of these tools is still a matter of debate among experts.

Some argue that the devices used in ghost hunting are not reliable indicators of paranormal activity, and that their effectiveness is largely based on subjective interpretation.

Others point out that many of the phenomena associated with ghostly activity, such as electromagnetic fields and temperature fluctuations, can also be explained by natural causes.

In conclusion, the science behind ghost hunting equipment has evolved significantly over the years, but the pursuit of understanding the paranormal remains a topic of ongoing debate among experts. While modern ghost hunting equipment may be more sophisticated than its predecessors, the question of whether these tools can truly detect the presence of ghosts or spirits remains unanswered. Nevertheless, organizations such as the Brooklyn Paranormal Society continue to use these tools in their investigations, in the hope of gathering evidence that may help to shed light on the mysterious world of the paranormal.