Phantoms and Monsters

3-Year-Old Boy Delivers A Warning!
Strange Tales From The Sultanate
Additive in Microwave Popcorn Caused Irreversible Lung Disease

Posted: 09 May 2010 01:20 PM PDT

The following is an odd post I found on ATS today. I'd be interested to read your thoughts on these revelations by a 3-year-old.
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My son, who is 3, woke up this morning and started to make some really bizarre statements this morning. He woke up early as usual and related this tale to his great aunt (I was still in bed, being Sunday and all). It went as follows:

Son: "You're gonna die."
Aunt: "What?!"

"Yep, the Erf [sic] is gonna start spinning faster and faster and toooo fast and everything is gonna' go upside down!" He then demonstrated by spinning rapidly and then doing a dramatic tumblesault on the living room carpet, finished with an "umph" for emphasis. After that, he asked for some breakfast.

My aunt then queried him as to what would happen to other members of the family. He responded that "Dadda will die, mumma will die, everybody is gonna' die." He was not upset in the least by these proclamations. They were just made as matter of fact. My aunt then asked him if he would die too. He responded, "no".

So my aunt asked him how he will survive. He stated that, "I'm gonna be ok. They will take care of me." When asked who are 'they' he replied "the other people will look for me, I'm ok". (Bear in mind, this is a 3 year old so his definition of everybody and everything is still a loose term)

So, my aunt questioned him further by naming various family members that he knew. He did state that one of his uncles and one of his cousins would also survive. They live in different parts of the state. Everyone else that he knows – dead.

Later today, my aunt told me about this little conversation. I then asked my son to tell me about it. He related the same story, with the same little spin and dramatic fall on the floor. So, I decided to interrogate him further. I didn't get much more information; but some of the answers were intriguing.

When asked how he knew this, he replied "cause I got told". Unfortunately, the little pisser absolutely refused to tell me who told him this. And again, being 3, most of his answers were just sort of matter-of-fact without detailed explanation. When asked why the Earth would start spinning faster, all I got was "cause it will". He did state that, "everything's gonna shake and get broken" and that "it happens so fast!" One of the most chilling statements was that, "the water is everywhere." (Again, 'everywhere' is a relative term to him)

When asked as to when this would happen, all I got was a "in da future". Now to him, having a 3 year-old's conception of time and space, the 'future' could mean next month or 2075. It's all vague and sort of incomprehensible to him. So nothing there.

What I am really concerned with is, where did he get this information? Granted, I do belong to ATS and enjoy all the doom-and-gloom, 2012, Armageddon posts. But I have never discussed the concept of the End of the World with him. Neither would my wife as she is not at all interested in these types of things. In fact, she finds them disturbing and to be avoided. Same for my aunt and his older sister. My son does have rudimentary reading skills but nothing that would allow him to digest this sort of information if he found it online. So, where did he get exposed to this concept? Who told him about this theory of the precession of the equinoxes and polar displacement, etc? My only assumption (now) is that it had to be a dream because he stated it immediately after getting out of bed. So, WTF?

This has been obsessing me up all day. The little stinker won't give much more than vague, yet assured and emphatic, statements. If anybody has any ideas or input as to how to deal with this, I'd be glad to hear it.

NOTE: if this account is true, was this child given an insight to the future? If so, who or what told him this? Was is meant to merely scare his family and whoever else heard the warning? Though this boy is only 3-years-old, I feel he may have heard something on TV that prompted a dream...there are many 2012 revelation programs running at all hours on the tube. But, then again....? Lon

3-Year-Old Boy Delivers A Warning!

Strange Tales From The Sultanate

Posted: 09 May 2010 12:15 PM PDT

news.brunei - Encounters with the paranormal are likened to a mirage of appalling nightmares that often whets a subliminal fear and sense of inquisitiveness. The out-of-body experiences relay much on the supernatural frontier as this controversial topic forays into yet another mystifying journey, springing forth an intricate tapestry of both myth and unexplainable occurrences.

THE MURKY WATERS

Much has been whispered about the strange conundrums surrounding a local beach and although the scenic beauty bears no glaring flaw, visitors have been urged to exert caution when taking a dip in the otherwise tranquil waters.

In this story, a family from Berakas recalls the events of their supposed 'barbeque outing', which turned out to be a bizarre ordeal.

As the family of four embarked on their journey, the 'sleepy' sun peeked over the horizon, radiating the first strokes of light at the crack of dawn. The deserted roads and empty shops are a common sight on Sundays with the exception of a few early risers opening their 'kopitiams' for business and an occasional jogger or two hitting the extra miles along the roadside. They whizzed pass several buildings and a residential area before reaching a familiar road. A pleasant signboard greeted their very arrival and before them, the oceanfront glittered like diamonds against the golden rays of the glowing sphere in the sky as the mighty waves crashed against the shore, its cool morning breeze emitting a soothing sensation, as if washing away all the sorrows of yesterday.

They managed to secure a hut near the playground and began setting up the grill for their barbeque. "Sarah wants to play on the swing dad," Anwar said and before he could even utter a 'yes', the two siblings ran across the field and began playing with the recreational facilities. Their father, Hakim, simply smiled at the children's eagerness for it has been a while since they spent a family day together amid the hustle and bustle of daily life. After a hearty breakfast, Hakim decided to go for a swim while his wife watched over the kids.

The alluring sea had already beckoned its visitors to enjoy a host of nature's fine offerings as beachgoers could be seen playing volleyball, while others engaged in various fun-filled activities. A former swimmer during his youth, Hakim attempted to test the vigor of his once-perfectly honed skills but laughed off the foolish endeavour after fatigue overwhelmed his entire body. Suddenly becoming conscious of his whereabouts, Hakim noticed that he had swum beyond his reach. "I didn't expect to swim that far off to sea and was shocked as to how I reached that point," the aspiring manager said.

Out of the blues, a piece of log floated in his direction but he simply dismissed it as nothing unusual. As he attempted to swim for the shoreline, a giant wave appeared from nowhere and struck Hakim hard causing him to spiral down beneath the surface as he struggled to fight the torrential currents that pulled him deeper and deeper into the menacing waters.

"I tried with all my might to rise to the surface but it felt like a thousand strong hands were pulling me from below," he said. The sturdy force of the tide dragged him like a rag-doll as it glided across the sea, refusing to release the father-of-two from its grasp. As he entered into a state of unconsciousness, the melodic laughter and angelic faces of his children flashed before his eyes. "I longed to see my kids again and vowed that nothing would take me away from them," Hakim said with sheer pride. With that, he expended a new burst of energy to swim ashore and ascended to the surface, gasping for air as he did and made his journey back.

However, his sudden willpower was short-lived as the relentless torrents refused to surrender its claims and once again, hauled him into the dark, gloomy waters. In that instant, a brawny pair of hands pulled Hakim back to the surface as he constantly slipped in and out of consciousness. The phenomenal episodes promptly summoned him back to reality as he stared at his valiant savior and although grateful, Hakim gravely feared for his safety. "We need to swim back. It's not safe here," Hakim murmured as they buoyed on the baleful territory like two helpless souls. His sudden rush of adrenaline rekindled a renewed strength as he repudiated the idea of placing the youth's safety in jeopardy but regardless of their attempts to make it to shore; they seemed glued in position as it took forever to reach their destination. "Mister, what's going on?" the terrified youth questioned as an evident fear loomed in his eyes.

Hakim began reciting verses from the al-Quran along with prayers to guide them back to safety. Together, they vigorously swam until they reached the soft layers of sand and collapsed on the shore. The beach was gripped with pandemonium as curious onlookers rushed to their aid. Hakim's wife and children smothered him with kisses, grateful for his safe return. He turned towards his side and thanked his heroic rescuer for such a courageous act.

Days passed when his wife approached him to relay her side of the tale. The uncanny state of affairs ensued after his bizarre disappearance on that fateful day. Seeing as though something was amiss, she sought help from fellow beachgoers and some were kind enough to render their assistance. After searching the grounds for more than five hours, a young man caught sight of Hakim struggling in the waters and when he made the rescue attempt, both of them mysteriously disappeared from sight. They only re-appeared after reaching safely ashore.

After concluding her version of the story, Hakim removed the retention bandages on his legs to reveal a hundred handprint marks and scratch spots embossed in the deep layers of his skin. "My wife was bewildered by the strange marks on my legs and it bears a painful reminder of my near-death experience. This has broadened our concepts in every aspect of life. Thankfully it was I who ventured into the waters and not my kids. To learn that I was missing for a good five hours surprised me as it only seemed like a few minutes," Hakim said. He also advised beachgoers to keep a watchful eye over their children when swimming in beaches and ensure their constant safety at all times.

Whether this incident was the work of paranormal entities or not, it isn't meant to misconstrue or tarnish the charms and tranquility of our serene beaches but more rather to unleash a sense of awareness amongst fellow readers that an impending danger can lurk anywhere and thus, exerting vigilance is certainly vital especially when it concerns young children.

Throughout the years, tragic deaths or near-accidents occurring at beaches, rivers or even pools involving drowning victims have made headlines in local newspapers. The public has voiced deep concerns on the need to set up watchtowers and install lifeguards to ensure the safety of both children and adults alike at the beach or swimming centres.

THE VILLA

In the olden days, traditional beliefs governed many superstitious aspects in the construction industry but modern times have shunned the idea of seeking permission from designated sites before a development activity to appease any spirits occupying the area, primarily due to the fact that time has become the essence for most companies.

It is believed that paranormal entities would inhabit a deserted home or quarters after three days and sometimes, manifest itself to the living … or so they claim. Such was the case of five foreign workers who voluntarily agreed to work overtime on a Thursday evening to reap more 'rewards' at the end of the month.

As the five geared up for the long night ahead, the colossal riverside villa rose out of the night, darkness illuminating the forsaken grounds as the sun slipped vertically down the horizon, its clandestine decent seemed portentous, radiating a crescent shade of gray and gloomy blue across the leaden sky.

The workers, all of who are from Malaysia began revamping the dilapidated mansion and soon, sounds of welding machines and the constant hammering on walls echoed throughout the great house. Their only source of light came from the illumination of the fluorescents powered by a generator, which was ample enough to work with. Amid the hectic series of errands to complete before midnight, time passed by quickly for the hard-working lot. They decided to take a break and sat on the front gallery to grab a bite to eat. As they laughed away to the jokes and tales of their past, one of them began to perceive a racketing sound coming from the east wing of the house. "Did you hear that?" Herman asked.

They became as silent as the grave and tried to listen closely to the strange noise. A minute passed and nothing occurred. "I think fatigue is getting the better of you," Yusry said while patting Herman on the back. Out of the five, only Herman believed in ghosts while the rest refused to acknowledge their existence. Suddenly, a gust of cold wind stirred the loose shutters behind them and they instinctively turned around to the direction of the sound. "Grab your tools guys, I think there's a thief in our midst," Yusry said as he slowly crept into the manor. They searched each room but found no visible signs of the 'thief'. The ignorant foreman then suggested inspecting the upper floors, which of course, had no light bulbs or even fluorescents installed. The curious four grabbed their flashlights and proceeded to act as 'detectives' in the night.

Herman decided to stay on the ground floor where the florescent lights offered some comfort to the otherwise sinister-looking surroundings. The dim illumination from the torchlights elongated the shadows as their footsteps creaked against the floorboards. "Jeff, check the pantry. The others will follow me to the attic," Yusry said, pretending to act bold. Even in the dark, an evident fear twisted Jeff's expression as he slowly murmured the words 'chicken' to himself. The three climbed another flight of stairs before reaching the eerie and humid loft. Again, no 'lank-haired' poltergeist emerged from the shadows as they had anticipated.

"There are nothing here guys. I think we over-reacted quite a bit there," Yusry said with a laugh. As they descended from the stairway, Jeff was already sitting comfortably beside Herman. "Did you check the pantry?" Yusry asked but Herman shook his head negatively. Before he could give his friend a good scolding, a nasty snarl followed by vague sobs emerged from the upper floors and without thinking, the group retreated hastily towards the exit.

The sudden rush of adrenaline left them bewildered as to why they scurried from the house in the first place. Yusry stared at their petrified glazes and turned his attention towards the roof. There, a ghostly apparition sat silently still and stared at them intently. As the group attempted to make their leave from the creepy grounds, the 'entity' disappeared into thin air and re-appeared suddenly before Yusry. Herman quickly grabbed him by the shoulders as they ran for safety.

Needless to say, their supervisor was stunned to find them along the roadside but shook his head in disapproval as they relayed their tales. "The only ghosts here are five of you. I hope this is not some excuse to stop work early," he said. The others simply remained silent. Days later, a group of Thai workers experienced a similar phenomena and abandoned the construction site.

Years have passed since the bizarre episodes and their supervisor claims that workers from different companies too suffered encounters out of the norm. The renovation works at the once-charming manor still remains unfinished till this day, as the 'occupants' tend to drive away any 'uninvited guests'.

"The owners are attempting to conduct renovation works at the site again and hopefully, everything turns out for the best," the supervisor said.

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MMmmmm...The Earthy Goodness of Indonesian Mud Snacks!

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IN OTHER NEWS...New Zealand man makes paper out of bull shit!

Strange Tales From The Sultanate

Additive in Microwave Popcorn Caused Irreversible Lung Disease

Posted: 09 May 2010 11:41 AM PDT

NYDN - A Queens woman is suing a food giant, claiming she got "popcorn lung" by inhaling vapors from microwaved munchies she consumed at least twice a day for 16 years.

Agnes Mercado claims ConAgra, the maker of Act II popcorn, is responsible for irreversible lung disease, is responsible for irreversible lung disease that will one day require a transplant.

"I've been eating popcorn many years, but now I wish I hadn't. It's made me very sick," she told the Daily News in between coughing fits yesterday.

"I was eating two or three bags of popcorn a day. I didn't know it would destroy my lungs."

The Far Rockaway woman is one of a handful of consumers who has sued over exposure to the additive biacetyl, which gives popcorn its buttery taste.

Several factory workers also have sued the Ohio company and other popcorn makers, resulting in more than $100 million in settlements, lawyers say.

The workers claim the additive has destroyed airways in their lungs.

Mercado learned last month she has a condition known as bronchiolitis obliterans. She says she ate Act II Lite popcorn every day from 1991 to 2007.

Mercado is confined to a desk job at a Rockaway nursing home and carries an oxygen tank with her everywhere she goes, said her lawyer, Wendy Fleishman.

"She has to work in a sedentary job," Fleishman said. "She just had a horrible reaction to this. It should never have been added to microwave popcorn or any other food."

Also named as defendants in the suit filed yesterday in Queens Supreme Court are several biacetyl manufacturers.

In February, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it was reviewing whether consumers are at risk of lung disease through prolonged exposure to the additive.

A spokeswoman for ConAgra could not be reached for comment. The company says it no longer uses biacetyl as an additive.

Additive in Microwave Popcorn Caused Irreversible Lung Disease

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