November 29, 1864
The engagement at Spring Hill came as Confederate Gen. John Bell Hood tried to prevent an isolated Union column from retreating to a stronger defensive position at nearby Franklin. Fighting began late in the day as the Federals stopped disorganized Confederate attacks. Hood’s troops finally gained a strategic position cutting off the Union retreat as darkness fell, but his subordinates received no further orders and failed to press their advantage.

The Confederates bivouacked for the night, leaving the road north to Franklin open and allowing the Union army to slip by. The next day the belligerents met again at Franklin in an unmitigated disaster for the Confederacy, which lost 6,200 soldiers, including six general officers, in one day.

Threat
Middle Tennessee is currently experiencing some of the most rapid development in the nation. The same expansion pressures from the Nashville suburbs that so damaged the Franklin battlefield are now at work in Spring Hill. Partnering with Maury County a decade ago, CWPT was able to preserve 110 acres, but decisive action and cooperation is needed to protect additional land before it is lost.

Throughout 2007, controversy swirled around General Motors’s plan to sell several hundred acres of land surrounding the antebellum Rippavilla Plantation as surplus. GM has volunteered to donate 100 of the more than 500 acres in question to the non-profit foundation responsible for running Rippavilla, as well as contributing $1 million over 10 years toward the historic home’s upkeep. The ultimate fate of the rest of the property remains in question. http://www.civilwar.org/mebr2008/newsrelease.html

CWSAC classified Spring Hill as a Priority I, Class B battlefield.

This upsets me.........


Resources for Spring Hill

•Spring Hill Battlefield
•Rippavilla Plantation
•Tennessee Civil War Preservation Association
•CWSAC Battle Summary of Spring Hill

Poltergeist Activity: A malevolent, mischievous spirit or form of energy which manifests with characteristics such as strange noises, moving or disappearing objects, and abnormal odors. The word poltergeist is a German word, literally translated means, "Noisy Spirit."

The earliest known reports of poltergeists date back to the ancient Romans. Other poltergeist records can be found in the medieval times of China and Germany. The reports indicate unexplainable events such as throwing dirt, flying objects, awful smells, loud noises, unexplained lights and ghostly apparitions. All of which are very similar to the still ongoing reports of modern poltergeists. Why exactly poltergeist activity occurs has been under debate by experts and scientists for decades. Poltergeists usually begin and end abruptly. The typical incident can last for several hours or several years.

There have been hundreds of independent studies done on poltergeists. A majority of the cases revolve around on individual or "Agent," as they are called. The phenomenon seems to be linked to a type of subconscious psychokinesis (PK) on the part of the agent. The studies have discovered that most of the poltergeist agents are females under the age of twenty who are totally unaware that they are involuntarily directing the poltergeist energy.

While still not much is known about the way that poltergeist work the investigations have uncovered a link between the agents and states of poor mental or physical health. Emotional problems associated with agent personalities are anxiety, hysteria, anger, obsessions, phobias and schizophrenia. In some cases with psychological help to relieve the emotional tensions the poltergeist energies diminish and disappear.

It should be pointed out that while a majority of poltergeist cases revolve around unstable human agents, there are cases where all of the people involved are psychologically stable and don’t seem to have any control over the poltergeist energy. These cases remain a mystery. Some paranormal researchers blame them on other supernatural forces including Demon influences.

The differences between poltergeist activity and a haunting can be very hard to distinguish. In the early stages of a poltergeist it may be impossible. Haunts are poltergeists do share basic aspects, (apparitions, strange noises, odors, moving or disappearing objects, etc.).

There are some points that make them very different:

Haunting: Involves the ghosts of deceased human beings appearing frequently in certain places and times.
Poltergeist: May not be ghosts at all. There are theories are that poltergeists are mass forms of PK energy that a living person is unknowingly controlling. In some cases extreme poltergeists activity has been linked to demons.

Haunting: The appearances of spirits in areas known to the deceased before death.
Poltergeist: Can be triggered by a living person’s trauma in any location, at any time.

Haunting: Activities are continuous over time, concentrated in the same general area.
Poltergeist: Activities build up over time to a climax and then start over. Poltergeist energies can travel anywhere with anyone.

Haunting: Are not violent by nature.
Poltergeist: Nearing the climax of the energy cycle poltergeists can become dangerous, inflicting both mental and physical terror in extreme cases.

If you feel that you are encountering poltergeist activity don’t wait to look for help. Find a priest or local paranormal research group in your area. Some poltergeist cases can be exorcised before they have the chance of becoming dangerous. If you think that the poltergeist is linked to an object in you possession get rid of that object right away. Don’t try to move or run away from a poltergeist. It’s a waste of time. If the poltergeist is linked to a person or object it will follow right along with you. The best thing to do is seek out professional help as soon as you can. It shouldn’t cost you a penny to do so. If you find someone that wants to charge you a fee, look for someone else.

Apparitions types

An apparition is defined as the supernatural manifestation of the soul of a decease person or animal, typically referred to as a ghost. Apparitions are visual experiences. Throughout history human beings have seen ghosts. Despite research efforts there is still very little known about apparitions. They are the most compelling part of the supernatural field. The one thing that is known about apparitions is that no two are exactly alike. They are as complex and diverse as each living person. Every apparition will have it’s own cause, origin and meaning. It’s up to the ghost hunter to analyze the facts of each case and develop solid conclusions. To help the ghost hunter acquire a better feel for the kind of apparition they are dealing with, apparition categories have been created. You will find that most apparitions will fit into at least one of these categories or share characteristics with a couple different categories.

Atmospheric Apparition

This type of ghost sighting is not actually believed to be a real ghost, but instead a visual "imprint" that got left behind in the environment from a past event. These events typically include, but are not limited to, violent and tragic events. What witnesses report seeing is the continuous replaying of past events exactly as they happened. The ghostly scenes are played and replayed with both picture and sound. A particularly strange aspect of atmospheric apparitions is that the visual picture fades down over time. As the years pass the ghosts are reported to become more and more transparent until there is no picture left at all. Over time, the sound too eventually fades away.

The most popular theory for atmospheric apparitions is represented in the field of quantum physics. Light particles become suspended in the atmosphere where they remain dormant in the environment until an outside variable stimulates them. Once stimulated the light particles vibrate in the atmosphere. Witnesses then see the frozen light particles vibrating creating a holographic vision of the past event. There are certain conditions needed for this phenomenon to occur that supports the particle imprint theory. The area must be indoors or where weather conditions cannot interfere. These apparitions can only be seen from a particular angle and at the proper distance. This means that ten people may be in the same room and only a few will be able to see the apparition.

Historical Apparitions

These apparitions are one step up from the atmospheric apparition. They typically haunt older homes and appear in solid forms acting natural. They are always dressed in period clothing and do not speak, communicate or acknowledge the presence of the living. They are seen in more than one location of the residence.

Recurring Apparitions

Recurring apparitions are ghosts that occur in regular cycles over a period of time, usually once annually. This type of ghost sighting is one of the most popular. The date of manifestation usually occurs on an anniversary date or a day of special importance to the deceased. These apparitions can include both ghosts of people and animals. Reports of recurring ghosts include individuals who have committed suicide, murder victims, and entire phantom armies marching across battlefields.

Modern Apparitions

Modern ghosts are the spirits of present-day ghosts. Not all ghosts are from ancient haunted places or of two hundred-year-old dead people. These ghosts are relatively new, looking and sounding like modern people. They still have all the same characteristics as the older haunts, (strange noises, odd odors, cold spots, etc.). Of course as decades of time pass the haunting will become more traditional and the apparitions will look dated. The times and styles will continue to change but the apparitions will not.

Crisis or Death Bed Apparitions

These apparitions appear to loved ones or close friends just before or soon after their death. They are very common ghost sightings that almost never occur after more than four days after death. Crisis apparitions are most popular during periods of wars were hundreds of cases of the appearances of dying or dead service men thousand of miles away are reported. The crisis ghost appears one last time to fulfill a promise, say a final goodbye, or express eternal love to help ease the sadness of death for the living left behind.

Family Apparitions

These spirits attach themselves to a particular family, thus the name, family apparitions. They will haunt every member of the family through each generation until the family line comes to an end. These ghosts include the spirits of deceased family members and animals. The appearance of these ghosts usually signals that someone within the family is about to die. Usually there are no prior health problems until the phantom manifests, then family members suddenly fall ill and die or become the victims of some other untimely death. These apparitions are considered to be dark omens and are the hardest ghost to get rid of. All charms, spells and even exorcism fail. It may be because these apparitions are not actually causing the deaths, just foretelling them in an eerie manner. The only escape known for this haunting is the end of the family line.

Haunted Objects and Object Apparitions

Haunted objects can also be referred too as cursed. This supernatural phenomenon is one of the strangest most puzzling enigmas of all the haunting styles. Most haunts have a ghost at the center. When dealing with haunted objects the question must be, "how are these objects haunted." They were never alive and are void of any soul. Some haunted objects are spirit associated, meaning that the ghost of a past owner who had a powerful emotional tie to the object now haunts the objects. Still, other objects leave no clue to their curse and appear to have a life of their own. In the presence of haunted objects witnesses report all types of strange occurrences like bizarre sounds and lights coming from the rooms where the objects are stored. The objects move when no one is touching them. Dark apparitions are sometimes seen near the objects. These haunted objects can include almost any possession; jewelry, collectibles, wall clocks, and furniture are some of the more common haunted objects.

There are also object apparitions. Reports of the ghost like sightings of objects like swords, books, lanterns, etc. Ghosts or spirits cannot possess objects, but they can haunt them. There is a difference.

Modes of Transportation

These are the manifestations of non-living vehicles such as cars, trucks, busses, bicycles, carriages, trains, airplanes, and ships. There are almost always associated in some way with a violently tragic demise where hundreds of people may have died as a direct result. The emotional imprints left behind in these kinds of horrible events are so strong that even pieces of the wreckage can become haunted or cursed. These vehicles are seen traveling back over their last routes in the reenactments of their final seconds. They can be dangerous apparitions because of the fact that most people who see them are themselves traveling in a vehicle. Witnesses sometime panic and sometimes wreck as a result.

Photographic Apparitions

These are ghosts that are not seen visually, but can be photographed. Most people are unaware that they have taken a picture of a ghost until they develop the film. The ghosts appearing in photographs may appear in slightly transparent grayish forms wearing period clothing, or more commonly as bright white patches of concentrated energy. Blurred areas and unexplained smears on only certain areas of a photograph are believed by some to be caused by a nearby spirit. This phenomenon has taken a new twist over the past fifteen years with the revolution of the personal video camcorder. Ghosts or phantom like images have been recorded accidentally by regular everyday people and by experienced ghost hunters.

Out-Of-Body Apparitions

The strange occurrences of out-of-body apparitions are when people report seeing the ghost of someone whom is still alive and could not have been nearby at the time of the sighting. These apparitions appear in very much the same form as a regular ghost. They can be solid or transparent, acting similar to the real person. The person whose ghost was seen is not dying or for that matter is not even sick. They are perfectly healthy individuals who say they remember everything about their out-of-body experience and give details that can be verified. Some people claim to be able to induce the experience at will, a kind of spirit jumping. Because these apparitions can appear to people that may not know the individual in real life the apparition may be mistaken for a more traditional ghost. It is said that if the living soul stays out-of-body too long then the body will die and the soul will be left a wandering ghost.

Natural and Fraudulent Apparitions

A majority of all ghost reports will end up being false. This simply means that there is a logical and natural explanation for the occurrences being mistaken for something supernatural. It’s the ghost hunter’s job to find and eliminate all rational explanations. Once the normal possibilities have been ruled out the ghost hunter can then begin to investigate for more supernatural answers.

On the other side of the mistaken ghost sightings are the fraudulent reports. Individuals may fake a ghost sighting for any number of reasons. Maybe they are just trying to have fun and see if they can trick someone. Or this may be their way of getting attention. It could be a publicity stunt. It could even be a case of mental illness or schizophrenia on the part of the witness, which is not fraudulent. It’s important for a ghost hunter to keep in mind that there are people out there with the motives and technological know-how to produce a believable, fake ghost sighting. There have been cases of people faking poltergeist activities with houses that have been entirely wired by their owners from basement to attic to produce ghostly lights and sounds in any room on command. If the ghost hunter completes a thorough examination for logical explanations a fraudulent haunting should be easy to discover. A seasoned ghost hunter with a couple dozen cases under their belt will learn to develop a second nature for uncovering frauds.

Other Supernatural Explanations

There is always a huge list of natural explanations for producing apparitions and haunting conditions, however, after all natural explanations have been ruled out there are still some other paranormal theories that have to be looked at. While these explanations may be as hard to believe as the existence of ghosts for some people, they do have their basis from actual science. Creditable scientist trying to explain some supernatural occurrences have put forth theories such as time-slips and psychic echoes. Time-slips are moments where the past and present collide at one point. Anyone near the time-slip will be able to see into the past. Psychic echoes is where sounds from the past have somehow recorded themselves onto the stones of buildings and randomly play back like an old record. While these explanations are just as unproven as the existence of ghosts, they are theories that still need to be examined.

The process of recording a ghost’s voice on tape is referred to as EVP, or Electronic Voice Phenomena. It’s a concept that has really caught on in the past few years.
The idea behind EVP: Go into an area that could contain spiritual entities and literally have a conversation with the ghosts. Ask them a question, wait a few seconds, then ask another question. It’s not important to actually hear the ghost’s response to the questions. If you do hear a verbal response then your ghost hunt has just found gold. When you’ve finished asking all of your questions go back home and rewind the tape. Listen carefully from the beginning to the end for anything out of the ordinary. It has been reported in some haunting cases that the ghosts at the site have answered the ghost hunter’s questions. You have to listen closely, the answers are not always clear, and may even be in a different language.

Many people have had success with this method however there are some serious problems that need to be addressed. One key characteristic important with EVP is the ghost hunter’s own listening process. The tapes have to be reviewed and carefully listened to several times. The problem with that is that if you listen to anything long enough you can begin to hear things. You also have to be able to weed out all the background noises such as passing cars, barking dogs, the wind, etc. There’s also the nature power of suggestion. You may want to give the tapes to a trustworthy, impartial listener. Ghost hunters have the tendency to hear what they want to hear from the tapes. They know what questions were asked and have an idea of what answers to expect. Because the technique’s authenticity is impossible to prove no tape, regardless of what’s recorded on it, can be considered hard evidence. Critics have a valid point when they say that the sounds or voices recorded are either natural noises or hoaxes. There’s no way to prove that they’re wrong.

Tips to Good EVP Recordings:
*Digital Recorders work best, but tape recorders will work well too * Use an external, static free microphone.
* Always use brand new, high quality tapes. Never record over old tapes. There’s always a chance that the overlapping recordings will mix and you’ll hear things that shouldn’t be.
* Don’t bump the microphone and if you do, make a verbal note of it on the tape. You may also want to note any other nature sounds such as gusting winds, creaking doors, etc.
* Record in 20 to 30 minute sessions. You can record longer, but keep in mind that you have to listen to the tape later. If you record two hours of tape then you have to listen to two hours of tape. That can be very time consuming.
* Ask clear and precise questions.
* Don’t whisper during the recordings. You are not going to scare the ghosts away.
* After each question wait at least 10 to 15 seconds before asking the next question. It won’t do much good if you never let the ghost get a word in edgewise.

Anyone that wants to listen to EVP recordings made by other ghost hunters you can find samples of them on the Internet. They’re on almost every ghost hunting and paranormal webpage. You can find them by searching for "EVP Ghost Recordings" on Internet search engines.

When scientists debunk ghosts their first statement is usually, "there is no scientific proof of the existence of ghosts." This is wrong. There is scientific proof. Science even has theories that explain something must be happening beyond what we know and what we can see.

Albert Einstein (1879-1955), Time Magazine’s Man of the Century and one of the greatest minds the world has known, taught us that energy cannot be created or destroyed. It can only be changed from one form of energy into another form of energy. This means that no matter what is done energy cannot be destroyed.

Human beings have both electrical and chemical energy in our bodies. We are organically designed to carry our electrically charged brain and nervous systems. When we die our chemical bodies begin to break down and decompose. The organic side returns to wear it came from - energy changing into a different form of energy as Einstein’s law says. So what happens to the electrical energy that flows through our brain? It can’t simply disappear or fade away out of existence. That would break the laws of science. That energy has to still be somewhere only now it has changed into a different form of energy. What happens to the energy is really determined by personal faith. No one knows exactly what waits beyond this life. What we do know, thanks to science, is that the electrical pulse energy in each human being will always exist because as a rule it "cannot be destroyed."

Another great scientist who believed in life after death was Thomas Edison, (1847-1931). Edison was a genius ahead of his time. He invented the light bulb, phonograph, typewriter, electric motor, stock ticker, and 1093 other patented inventions. One of the inventions that he worked on at the end of his career was a secret project, a machine that would let the living see and communicate with the souls of the dead.

Edison believed that that the soul was made up of what he referred to as "life units." These microscopic particles or life units could rearrange into any form. They retained full memory, personality and were indestructible. Edison’s machine would detect these life units in the environment and allow living individual to communicate with the dead. He put many years of hard work into his new creation, but sadly, he died before it was finished. Some called Edison crazy. Others thought that he was onto something bigger than the idea of the light bulb. They believed that if he would have had a little more time, we might all today be living in a very different world.

It’s been found that in almost every ghost haunting and poltergeist that there are certain electrical elements at work. Using EMF detectors ghost hunters can monitor these electrical forces. These devices can examine and record even the smallest fluctuation in the surrounding electromagnetic field. Everything gives off some kind of electromagnetic field, even our own bodies. Electrical appliances, like television sets and computers give off higher distortions than a lamp or a toaster would. When ghosts are present there are higher levels of electromagnetic distortions. Many times the distortions are so high that they interfere with the working abilities of computers systems and audio/video equipment. High levels of static electricity are also detectable.

Recording temperature changes is another scientific way of detecting the presence of ghosts. Fluctuations of more than 10 degrees have been recorded in small areas of rooms with constant temperatures. It’s a scientific fact that there has to be some form of energy present to alter the temperature. Temperature does not change unless "something" is affecting it one way or the other. In many ghost sightings witnesses report feeling a cold spot. This could be caused by the fact that light does not seem to reflect correctly off of most ghosts, which also gives them a dark form. The light seems to be absorbed into the ghost. The theory is that ghosts absorb both light and heat energy causing the general area around that ghost to be several degrees cooler. There are also hot spots recorded, which could be just the reverse affect occurring. Instead of soaking up the light and heat the ghost is reflecting it back, causing the area to be warmer.

These unexplainable electromagnetic fluctuations and temperature changes are scientific evidence that something is happening. Ghosts are real.

When dealing with ghosts don’t look for any rules or absolutes. There are circumstances that seem to create a more ghostly atmosphere, but there are no guarantees on predicting when and where a ghost will appear. A ghost may appear once in a hundred years or once every Tuesday. It could haunt a house or dwell in a small spot in an open field.

Even with the perfect conditions for a ghost it doesn’t mean that one will ever show up. In fact, even the ghost’s appearance doesn’t seem to follow any special pattern. Sometimes a ghost is nothing more than a sharp chill felt on your body. In other cases the ghosts cannot be distinguished from a living person. Ghosts can also be in the forms of animals, headless bodies or even as simple as a single ghostly hand carrying a book down a dark hallway.

Ghosts have been known to interact with the living or just make acknowledgment with a quick glance or eye contact. In other accounts the ghost seems unaware of the presence of living people and appears to be acting out some part of their own life.

When it comes to ghost hunting the only rule is be ready for anything.


Some Helpful Definitions:


Ghost: Soul, Spirit, Demon. The disembodied spirit of a dead person, conceived of an appearing to the living as a pale, shadowy apparition.

Phantom: Something that seems to appear to the sight but has no physical exsistance; Apparition, Vision, Spector. Something to be feared or deaded.

Wraith: Guardian; a ghost. Spectral figure of a person supposedly seen as a premonition just before that person dies.

Poltergeist: Responsible for mysterious noisy disturbances or moving, misplacing of objects. Some poltergeists have been reported to cause physical harm to people.

Haunt: Visit often or continually. Frequented by ghosts.

Cool Edit Pro (Adobe Audition)... Is probably the best software for cleaning up E.V.P.’s Currently this is the software that we use. Uses are numerous... Create your own music Record and mix a project Produce a radio spot Clean up audio for a movie Compile and edit a soundtrack

http://www.adobe.com$349.99

*Open Mind:

Any ghost hunter will tell you, "The main ingredient to a successful investigation is an open mind". Your mindset, before you enter an investigation, is of utmost importance. If you believe that you will not get anything on your investigation, you probably won’t. Instead, keep an open mind and positive attitude when conducting an investigation. It could make all the difference.

*Camera:

Still motion photography is the means in which most evidence of ghostly activity is obtained. In all honestly, any camera will do. The one most frequently used is 35mm. I believe this choice is prevalent due to the popularity of 35mm cameras in recent years over older models. I expect the next trend will be digital cameras due to their growing popularity. Lets take a look at both options:

1.

1. Chances are, you probably already own a 35mm camera : Most people don’t own a digital camera.
2.

2. A good 35mm can cost around $100 : A good digital will cost over $400
3.

3. A 35mm requires film which will be an expense for every investigation : Digital has no film but memory can be an expense.
4.

4. Developing takes time and is another expense : Digital photos can be viewed on location and requires no developing.
5.

5. With a 35mm you get what you get on film : Digital camera can delete unwanted images therefore freeing up memory for more.
6.

6. A 35mm battery will last a long time : Digitals use more power, depleting batteries much quicker. Rechargeable batteries are recommended.
7.

7. 35mm film will provide tangible evidence in the photo and negative : Digital images must be saved to disk and/or printed on paper.

This list could go on. I have just listed a few of the major differences. Ultimately, in the future, I intend to use both at every investigation.

*Film:

The most widely used film for ghost hunting is Kodak Gold 400 speed film. This seems to get the most results. Kodak Gold 200 & 800 speeds are a close second. Keep in mind that the higher you go with speed, especially with night time photography, the images get more grainy in appearance.

Some ghost hunters go as far as to use infrared film. It sounds like a fabulous idea but is quite expensive. Not only does the film cost more, so does the developing.

*Electro-Magnetic Field Detectors:

Otherwise referred to as EMF meters, these devices can add an important element to any investigation. Their purpose is to detect the presence of electro-magnetic fields. Such fields can be generated by ghosts and has been related to haunting activity. Be careful of jumping to conclusions if you do get an EMF reading. First, you must rule out the possibility of an electrical or magnetic source. Televisions, appliances, electrical wires and (strangely) pipes in the walls or ground can generate EMF’s.

EMF meters can range from the relatively cheap ($20) to somewhat expensive ($200). First decide what you want in an EMF detector. Here are some features to consider:

1.

1. The frequency sensitivity range can vary greatly between models. Some can detect between 20-10,000Hz. Others may detect only between 40-60Hz. A substantial difference wouldn’t you say?
2.

2. The way in which a measurement is displayed can also be of importance. Some may only have a green and red light display allowing you to document the range in which a magnetic field is. (i.e. 2.5 to 7 milli-gauss). Others have a needle resembling the speedometer on your car. This will give you the comfort of documenting an exact reading. Still, others have a digital display. Although more expensive, the digital display will give you an exact reading to the decimal. Also, they usually have a light feature so you can see what you are doing in the dark.
3.

3. An audible alarm is a helpful feature to consider. This will inform you of an EMF detection without having to keep your eyes on the device.

Compass:

A compass can make an inexpensive alternative to the EMF detector. A ghostly anomaly will turn the needle at least 30-35* away from magnetic North. Again, you must rule out the possibility of an electrical source. The downfall to using this device is that it has no light and you must always be aware of the direction of magnetic North.

*Thermometer:

A nice addition to your equipment is a temperature reading device. Cold spots are a frequent finding in paranormal situations. A digital indoor/outdoor thermometer can allow you the convenience of documenting such anomalies. If you consider this option, get one with highest/lowest temperature memory and an alarm. Average cost $25.

*Thermal Scanner:

A more expensive alternative to the digital thermometer, the thermal scanner uses infrared technology to instantly detect temperature differences at a distance. You can expect to spend about $200 for a good one. If you can bypass the digital thermometer for this point-and-shoot gadget, I highly recommend it.

*Video Camera:

This handy piece of equipment can capture strange events as they occur. Most households have one (or at least access to one). Carry it with you or strategically place it somewhere. The decision is yours. What can you expect to see? Look for anything unusual. Objects moving of their own accord, unexplained shadows or lights, unexplained camera malfunctions and drained batteries are just some things that have presented themselves.

*Night Vision Video Camera:

Similar to combining a video camera with a night vision scope, this device allows the recording of light not visible to the naked eye. A great device to have at any investigation.

*Night Vision Scopes:

Many ghost hunters are incorporating these "toys" into their work. They come in handy in a dark cemetery. Many have seen things through these scopes that otherwise would have been missed. Overall, an expensive item.

Thermal Imaging Scopes:

Imagine your thermal scanner detects a temperature anomaly directly in front of your team. Thermal Imaging Scopes will allow you the luxury of actually seeing what your thermal scanner sees. Using infrared technology, you can actually see the shape and size of that cold spot. This is still an expensive item to have but well worth the money.

*Audio Recorder:

Ghost hunters have come to know that ghosts are able to leave little tidbits of their existence called EVP’s on audio tape. Otherwise known as electronic voice phenomena, the EVP is a fascinating event for any investigation. Any recorder can be used to obtain an EVP. Fortunately, most people already have a recorder in their possession to use. A strong suggestion would be to use it.

*Digital Recorders:

Digital recorders are fast becoming the item of choice for obtaining electronic voice phenomena. We have had outstanding results with such devices.

*Motion Detectors:

Motion detectors can alert you to movement in an area where there should be none. Easily, an entire room or hallway can be monitored with just one device. Could be a great indoor tool!

Interviewing a witness may be the hardest thing that you have to do during an investigation. As any law enforcement officer will tell you, two witnesses rarely see the same incident in the exact same way. Paranormal investigators run into the same situation but in a different manner.... in our case, a witness will see and hear something totally alien to them, something frightening and something they don’t understand. This makes our job even tougher.

A witness should be handled in a careful and deliberate manner. They have to be made to feel comfortable with the investigation and the entire situation. The paranormal may see like "old hat" to us, but it is something completely bizarre to the ordinary person.
The following are some hints and tips that will help you through a proper interview with a witness. These are some things to watch out for:

1. Check all of the details of the account with the witness and make sure that all of the outside facts are in order and not just their immediate encounter. If they recall that it was snowing that night, check the weather conditions and see, because if it wasn’t, that might not be the only problem with their memory.

2. Attempt to recreate the events if possible. Place each witness in the same position they were in when the encounter occurred. If they reported a strange noise, try to recreate that noise by natural means and make sure the normal possibilities are ruled out.

3. Try to get a full and complete report of everything that happened. This might be important later as the mind tends to forget slight details as time goes by.

Okay, let’s say that you have followed all of the rules and the case seems genuine. It appears that the witness statement holds up to scrutiny.... but does it really?
I can’t stress how important it is to be careful when assessing this testimony. Being careful is the best way to discover what really happened. You have to make sure that you are objective when writing up your report. Don’t let yourself be influenced by information that you may have run across in reading or research.

Your assessment of the witness testimony may be imperative to the case. Is the witness believable? If you have any doubts about what may have happened, you need to rule those out while you are at the location.

The following is a list of testimonial problems that can occur with the witness and again, some other things that you need to watch out for when conducting an interview:

1. A witness may be totally unaware of how some phenomena may occur. Check into the details... there may be something natural about the house that is caused the lights to go on and off or something about nearby train tracks that are causing things to move about.

2. Eyewitness testimony is not always what actually happened... but what the witness believe to have happened. It is good to find out ahead of time is the witness is already "sure" the house is "haunted" or not. This kind of thinking can easily color their testimony.

3. A witness can be influenced by information you give them. Be careful about what you say before the interview. Even joking about paranormal events can be bad. You could laugh and say "that sounds like the Amityville Horror" and the next thing you know, the witness is reporting blood coming from the walls.... don’t laugh about this one, it happens!

4. The witness may be mentally unstable. This also happens.... and more frequently than we would care to admit. I have been called to houses where the residents are just plain "nuts". Obviously, we are not health care workers, so there is little we can do in this situation but try to extricate ourselves from the situation as politely as possible.

5. The witness may deliberately fabricate events. This is a two-fold problem.... on one hand you have a person who has may the whole thing up and on the other, a person who actually had a real experience but can’t recall all of the details, so they have "filled in the blanks" with less honest information.

Don’t let yourself get pulled in by this! It is easy to do and it happens to the best investigators sometimes. Following through on a case like this could be disastrous for your reputation. You have to learn when to tell if someone is lying... it will become identifiable by asking pointed and direct questions about the events.

Team Member Selection, Acceptation Criteria, Application Process, Training. Section 1: ALL TSPI Team Members, therefore, both Administrative and Investigator Level members, must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the submission of the application, and have at least graduated high school or no longer be in school. TSPI does not wish to interfere with the educational process. Team members shall be selected on the merits of their applications on who would be best to have on the team and benefit the team structure as a whole. All information on the application will be considered, such as skills possessed, level of education and previous experience. All information collected is completely confidential. At no time shall any potential member be discriminated against for the following: Age ( within the limits of the rules which state 18 plus), Gender, Race, National Origin, Religion, Sexual Preference/Orientation, Size or Mental ability (within reason). AMENDMENT ONE: For remote researchers who wish to join the team, they will use the electronic method of application and their interview will be conducted online rather than face to face to compensate for distances. Section 2: If accepted, a new member will be required to attend team meetings and go through a training process whose length will vary as new material is added. All members are required to read and understand the rules, and sign them, upon which their membership is considered complete. They are placed on trainee status until the completion of practical investigation techniques and evidence analysis. Once completed, the new member is taken off of trainee status and given full investigator status, which will allow them to lead sub teams and open up the possibility of them becoming an administrative member. The promotion from investigator to team leader will come when a position is open or needed. Some new positions may be created depending on new fields and as TSPI expands. These promotions will be made based upon a team members work ethic, dedication and level of understanding of their current position and their desire to move forward. Article II:

Team Rules of Behavior. Section 1: All team members shall conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times on site and at team meetings, or during any time when representing the TSPI team. At no time shall any team member disrespect a team leader or clients. Respect is key. You must give it to get it. The following is a list of prohibited actions on the behalf of team members and administrative level members. The following actions, if engaged in will result in automatic dismissal with prejudice and you will not be allowed to rejoin at any time in the future: * Harassment. This means in ANY form. Be it racial, gender, mental, physical, sexual, or any other incarnation of the word. Remember, its not how its meant but how its perceived. *The use of drugs (illegal/recreational) at ANY time, even in the clients home. This is absolutely unacceptable behavior and will be turned into authorities. Prescription drugs that are legally prescribed for a medical condition are allowed however, if they interfere with your duties, you should remain home for the duration of the prescription. *Disrespect of a clients rights. This means abusing a client in ANY way, stealing from them, making fun of them, mistreating their property, etc. *Falsifying evidence. This is one of the most despicable acts imaginable. You hurt not only the team, but they people we help and the entire field. If you are EVER caught doing this, you will be dismissed on the spot. *Stealing from the team, clients, etc. *Breaking any US laws. DUI is considered grounds to be put under review . Example, if you are caught speeding going to a site, this incedent will be reviewed by the Admins. Trespassing is an absolutely auto-dismissal action. *Alcohol use on site or the day of an investigation. *Underage drinking. *Sexual conduct on site or at ANY team function. That activity is for home, not the public. Do it, and you will be dismissed. Fraternization between team members is allowed as long as it is not an administrative level member to an investigative level or any position where one reports to the other. If you insist upon dating a team member while you are a team member yourself, you will keep yourself in control and professional at all times or be dismissed. Section: 2: Actions that are grounds for probation, which is when a team member is suspended from investigating and all duties, is not allowed to attend meetings or other team functions for a period designated by the director but no longer than 3 weeks are as follows, if the team member violates the 1 warning rule. *Failure to attend investigations repeatedly without an excuse unless you are a remote researcher. *Missing more than two meetings without an excuse. *Disrespect to a PRMT Administrative Level Member *Gossip--this means gossip period. Its a bad habit and it destroys and undermines team structure. Don’t do it. *Goofing off on site. *Breaching of team rules beyond your first warning. Section 3: Team Behavior and Protocol are as follows. If you break these, you will receive one (1) warning, after which the actions listed above will be taken, if the offense was large enough to warrant probation. If you break an auto-dismissal rule, you are gone with no warning. Team Behavior: * All TSPI members shall behave in a mature, adult manner, that constitutes their training and common sense. At no time, shall a TSPIT member engage in childish behavior on site or on an investigation. This research is serious work. If taken lightly, some one could be injured or worse, killed. You don’t run around a graveyard dark structure blindly goofing off. *At all times shall TSPI members obey the law. You will not break the law while on duty. This is an auto-dismissal action, including trespassing. If you are caught acting either with TSPI or acting on its behalf or as a rogue investigator, and you are trespassing, you are gone. *TSPI will not engage in the occult at any time with the exception of protection, and releasements, of which only a properly trained person shall engage. This means NO séances, NO Ouija Boards, NO tarot cards, nothing of that nature. Amulets that are religious in nature are allowed because everyone has that right. Just keep it to yourself. *Evidence will be collected in a scientific manner. An example, goofing off during EVP collection would be grounds for an extended probation. That would be a bad thing. Provocation of entities after a long period of inactivity is a research technique so its allowed within reason. *Analysis of evidence will be conducted in a scientific manner. Examples, No sleeping during reviews. *Reveals will be done in a professional and sensitive manner regardless of what is found. Remember, you are dealing with people who have their own problems and lives. Always offer support and if you cannot provide it, refer the client to a professional who can. Don’t over step your limits. We are not doctors.

Article III

Transportation to Investigations, Meetings, Activities. Section 1: All transportation to and from locations, investigations, activities, etc., shall be the sole responsibility of the individual team members. This rule is always in effect, unless prior arrangements have been made ahead of time. If a team member or group needs a ride (they do not have a car, no one else can bring them, breakdowns) then they must call the Founder immediately and ask for help. Help shall be provided to those who need it. We are a Team; we need to help each other. Fuel costs are the sole responsibility of the Team member. If car-pooling is done, or a ride is provided, it is only courtesy and hospitality to give the driver at least five (5) dollars to help cover fuel. Of course, not everyone can do this and each economical situation shall be considered differently and it will be left up to the driver to ask this or to let it go, whichever they choose.

Article IV

Equipment Section 1: Equipment donated to TSPI becomes the property of TSPI and not of any one team member. This equipment shall be used expressly for the investigations and experiments only. No team member/group will ever use donated equipment for personal use, goofing off, etc. Should this occur, then the punishment is a one-week suspension from TSPI activities. Section 2: The Tech Manager is in charge of TSPI equipment at all times when an investigation is being conducted. They will also be in charge of all equipment analysis of evidence, along with another Team Member. Section 3: Personal equipment owned by individual team members are the property of their owners and are not subject to TSPI regulations. TSPI shall not be responsible for such equipment, and the owners bring it at their own risk.

Article V

Funds, Service Charges, Financial Issues Regarding TSPI Section 1: TSPI shall not, will not ever profit from any service or help rendered to Clients, or businesses. No fee will ever be collected from doing our duty. We are a NON PROFIT Organization. Section 2: All funds will come from either willing Team Members, or through public donations, state grants, etc. Team dues will not be collected unless the entire team votes on it as a whole and a majority is in favor. If dues are collected, then financial hardships will be taken into consideration when setting an amount. Section 3: TSPI shall engage in healthy and beneficial group activities that shall benefit the public, be it a clean up job, helping at homeless shelters, races, etc. This is to help our communities grow and prosper, while at the same time building Team Morale. Fund Raisers may be done, such as car washes and t-shirt sales to provide team funds for equipment and trips.

Article VI

Investigations, Evidence Collection and Client Relations Section 1: Investigations shall be conducted to study, catalogue and understand the Paranormal, or, what is currently deemed as paranormal. TSPI will conduct experiments, collect data from various instruments, media, and notes. These notes and observations shall at all times be honest, and unexaggerated and without embellishment. They will also be subject to scrutiny and tests to determine the validity of claims. Section 2: The Client/Business is in control of their home/property at all times. What they say goes. They are welcomed to ask questions and to take part in the investigations. If they say no, then no is no. They have the right to view any and all evidence collected by TSPI . Section 3: All investigators will be polite, professional, and scientific during an investigation, and will be respectful to everyone, especially the client. Section 4: Should TSPI be unable to help, TSPI will make every effort to refer them to someone more qualified who can. Section 5: Each new member will be trained and tested before being allowed on regular investigations. Section 6: While TSPI does have a library, investigators are encouraged to visit local libraries, courthouses, and record offices. They will always have more resources than TSPI and are valuable places of information. Section 7: Any claims of paranormal activity claimed by the client shall be tested to determine their authenticity or likelihood. If at any time fraud is discovered, TSPI is to cease any and all investigations at that site and shut down the case file. Section 8: TSPI team members are NOT to fraternize with clients at ANY time.

Article>

Media Relations, Non-Disclosure, Release of Information. Section 1: All requests for media coverage of any kind will be sent to the society at tech managers email address. Each request will be reviewed and decided upon with the Society’s best interests in mind by the directors. Section 2: No team member shall ever give an interview, news story, etc, etc., without prior permission from the directors. Section 3: All investigations are non-disclosure, which will be binding through a signed form, which will be kept on file at TSPI . Any and all information gathered on site is strictly Non Disclosure. Any violation of this from any Team Member is an immediate dismissal. Privacy of our clients is crucial. This includes discussing client cases with anyone who is not affiliated with TSPI . This includes discussing cases with law enforcement, news agencies, school staff, parents etc. Section 4: Police and other government agencies will have to provide a legal warrant in order to access information for use in the court of law. Once such a warrant is supplied, then TSPI will gladly cooperate. Giving case information to news agencies (TV and radio included) is absolutely forbidden. AMENDMENT TWO: --TSPI will at all times cooperate with other paranormal research teams and study groups both in TSPI home territory, the state of Tennessee, and beyond, to fully provide the client with the best service possible and ensuring that each case is given the best attention and the widest view points. The exception to this rule, is when other groups have previously shown derogatory or inappropriate behaviors that may negatively impact the investigation, TSPI reputation, or the client. This applies to any group’s that TSPI deems non-professional. The criteria for unprofessionalism is below: 1.) Previous Trespassing 2.) Use of drugs, alchohol, or smoking while on site. 3.) Abuse of team members, client property, case files, information or evidence. 4.) Falsifying ANY evidence at ANY time, for ANY reason. 5.) Damaging the field’s name by conducting themselves in a inappropriate way such as flaming other teams, dishonoring non-discloure agreements, and NOT helping the client in the fullest. 6.) Illegal behavior of ANY type beyond minor traffic violations while engaged in team behavior. Or activities.