Real ghost busters leave their proton guns at home
Michael Mashburn
The East Valley Paranormal Society (EVPS), based in Mesa, is anticipated to give several library presentations around the valley this fall, where they will describe what a typical paranormal investigation is like for them. The one hour presentations consist of basic ghost-hunting tips and information, as well as pictures and video from previous investigations around the valley.
Attendees will also hear electronic voice phenomena (EVPs) that have been captured at the various locations and be able to see the different equipment used by the team.
Kim Mann, founder and director of EVPS, stated she was introduced to paranormal activity at 8-years-old.
“I was playing alone in the backyard when, suddenly, two little girls appeared out of nowhere dressed in old-fashioned clothing.
“I don’t know why, but those little girls have stuck with me until now,” she said.
Kim founded EVPS in 2006 with the intention of finding proof of the existence of life after death through means of scientific investigation.
According to the EVPS website, their purpose is to pursue knowledge and proof that paranormal phenomenon exists, but first and foremost, to disprove or debunk a haunting before labeling any place as haunted.
“We’re mainly going out to disprove and help put people’s minds at ease,” Mann said.
The team at EVPS has investigated several locations around Arizona, both public and private, believed to be displaying paranormal activity. Some of the more active sights include the Pinal County Courthouse in Florence, Vulture Mine in Wickenburg and the Connor Hotel in Jerome.
“Our trip to the Pinal County Courthouse really sticks out in my mind,” Mann said about previous investigations that have been eventful.
It was here during an overnight investigation that the team encountered some interesting activity, including strange images caught on video, as well as unexplainable noises.
“It was 11:30 at night and we were all scattered around the courthouse . All of a sudden, we heard this loud noise coming from the main floor. To this day we cannot figure out what it was,” Mann said.
In addition to describing their own ghost hunting experiences, the team at EVPS also encouraged people attending their library presentations to start their own paranormal investigation groups, and include several tips on how to get started.
Stephen Ryan, a technical support member of EVPS, stated conducting research ahead of time is key to a successful investigation.
“One of the most overlooked aspects of ghost hunting is making sure you find out the history of the place you are investigating before you go,” Ryan said.
EVPS encourages anyone who thinks they may be dealing with paranormal activity to contact them and request an investigation. They do not charge for their services.
Information on their upcoming events and how to contact them can be found at www.eastvalleyparanormalsociety.com
