Dead of Night - No 08 - 1996

Magazine Overview

Title: DEAD OF NIGHT MAGAZINE
Issue: 8
Date: March/April 1996
Publisher: Dead of Night Magazine
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1:50

This issue of Dead of Night Magazine, a publication dedicated to "Merseyside's Only Publication Dealing With All Paranormal Phenomena!!!", features a striking cover illustration titled "In The Shadow Of Boleskine". The magazine aims to cover a wide range of unexplained phenomena without subscribing to any single belief system.

Special Features

• In the Light of a New Fire Part One (Page 20): Steve Griffiths explores the Atlantis theories and the prophecies of lost civilizations.
• In The Shadow Of Boleskine (Page 35): The magazine visits one of Scotland's most notorious 'Window Area's', presumably related to paranormal activity.
• The Beast of Exmoor (Page 52): Roy Kerridge offers a personal perspective on the eyewitness evidence for 'The Beast of Exmoor'.
• Romance Of The Wolf (Page 54): This piece discusses the re-emergence of the wolf in Britain.

Regular Features

• Editorial (Page 3): Lee Walker reflects on the magazine being late and shares a personal anecdote about collecting 'Prehistoric Monster' cards, highlighting a lesson learned about accepting fault and seeking forgiveness.
• Chasing the Unknown Part One (Page 4): This section presents recent press-clippings of anomalous phenomena, including several ghost stories.
• Ghostly Tales - The Terror That Comes By Night: Steve Mullen, a former vicar, shares personal experiences and stories from parishioners about hauntings, including a hag ghost, a ghostly child in a seaside cottage, ghosts in a demolished mill, and a spectral guide in Yorkshire.
• The Arkansas Ghostlight: Reports on a mysterious light seen at irregular intervals above Union Pacific Railroad tracks in Gurdon, Arkansas, since 1931, believed by locals to be the ghost of a murdered section foreman.
• Keep Watching the Skies!!! (Page 23): This feature compiles the latest UFO sightings from Britain and around the world.
• Chasing the Unknown Part Two (Page 46): Continues the collection of news-clippings on anomalous phenomena.
• Ellesmere Port Apparitions: A paranormal investigation group claims to have encountered strange phenomena at Hooton Park, including ghostly presences and apparitions.
• The Blue Lady of Moss Beach: The legend of a ghost who wanders the beach in Northern California, searching for her lost lover.
• Gillian's Hex Files: Actress Gillian Anderson reportedly called in a real-life exorcist for her Canadian home, which was built on an ancient Indian burial ground.
• Ghosts of the Killing Fields: Reports from Tuzla, Yugoslavia, suggest a massacre site is haunted by the spirits of victims.
• Spook Kicks Up a Stink: Actress Betty Driver was allegedly driven from her home by the ghost of a dead farmer.
• Stories of Hauntings Are Put on Video: Wally Barnes has produced a video featuring ghostly tales.
• The Haunted Prison (Page 7): Bullingdon Prison in Oxfordshire is reportedly haunted by the spirit of a suspected female murder victim, with sightings confirmed by security cameras.
• Whatever Possessed Him? (Page 7): A former policeman was jailed after claiming a ghost forced him to make obscene phone calls.
• Griswold Inn Ghost Sings Sad, Sad Song (Page 7): The ghost of a woman, the 'Lady Upstairs', is said to sing and rock a baby in a bedroom at the Griswold Inn in Columbus, USA.
• BBC All Shook Up By The Ghost Of Elvis (Page 7): A BBC crew making a documentary about Elvis Presley experienced a series of strange events, dubbed 'Elvis's Revenge', after allegedly making jokes about the singer.

Strange Days in the Animal Kingdom

• Strange Animal Behaviour: This section presents unusual animal stories.
• The Cow That Fell to Earth: A heifer crashed through a factory roof but emerged unharmed.
• Donkeys Are Drunken Asses: Donkeys at an animal sanctuary in Devon were treated for alcoholism.
• Pigeons Nursing Sore Heads: Hungover pigeons in Maidstone, Kent, were found with alcohol-soaked bird seed.
• The Luckiest Cat in Britain (and the Cleanest Too): A cat was nearly drowned in a washing machine but survived.

Fatal Coincidences

This section compiles several unusual incidents where crime or death occurred under strange or coincidental circumstances:

• Fatal Coincidences: Herman Lorenz was killed by a train nearly 70 years after surviving a similar fatal crash.
• Statue Kills Girl: A six-year-old girl was killed by a falling marble statue.
• When Fate Smiles Down: Stories of survival against the odds, including a man surviving nine days underground in a sewer and a woman surviving 16 days in collapsed building ruins.
• Strange Days in the Animal Kingdom: Includes stories of unusual animal behavior, such as a cow falling through a roof, donkeys being treated for alcoholism, and pigeons affected by alcohol.
• When Crime Definitely Doesn't Pay: A collection of bizarre crime incidents, including a burglar who cooks before robbing, a man blaming his shoes for assault, bungling thieves stealing knitting, a dyslexic forger, and a woman smuggling her husband as a koala bear.
• In The Wrong Place At The Wrong Time: Reports of criminals being caught in unusual circumstances, such as escaping prisoners dialing emergency numbers by mistake, armed robbers finding police already at the scene, and pickpockets targeting undercover police.
• The Price of Passion: A series of short, often tragic or bizarre, incidents, including a man fined for damaging grass while making love, a wedding celebration ending in a shooting, a man arrested for buying drugs to expose dealers, a man killed by a train at the same spot his daughter died, a man winning a lawsuit over a prescription causing a permanent erection, a man accidentally shooting his wife and himself while trying to hammer with a pistol, and a woman's parcel bomb turning out to be pate.
• 'Take Me To Your Larder': Scientists mistook microwave oven signals for extraterrestrial contact.
• Lottery Loser's Rip-Up: A jobless man was convinced to tear up a winning lottery ticket.
• Which Bright 'Un?: Tourist guides mistakenly featured a sunset from a rival resort.
• The Killer Snowman: A farmer accidentally killed his daughter while building a snowman.
• Housewife's Last Wish: A woman choked to death on grapes while making New Year wishes.
• Revenge of the Spider: A man trying to kill a spider with a flamethrower accidentally burned down his house.
• A Sure-Fire Cure for Hiccups: A man shot his friend to cure hiccups, resulting in a gunshot wound.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Dead of Night Magazine are ghosts, hauntings, UFOs, and general paranormal phenomena. The magazine also includes sections on strange animal behavior and unusual crime incidents, often highlighting coincidences or bizarre circumstances. The editorial stance, as stated, is that the magazine "does not subscribe to any one belief system," indicating an open-minded approach to exploring various unexplained events and phenomena.

Title: FATE
Issue: 19
Volume: 1
Date: January 1996
Publisher: FATE Magazine
Country: USA
ISSN: 0014-947X
Price: $3.50

This issue of FATE Magazine, dated January 1996, presents a diverse collection of articles focusing on unexplained phenomena, mysterious creatures, and unusual animal behaviors. The cover prominently features "THE LEVIATHANS MYSTERIOUS WATER MONSTER SIGHTINGS," hinting at the aquatic mysteries within.

Animal Intelligence and Emotions

The lead article, "WHO SAY'S ANIMALS CAN'T FALL IN LOVE?", challenges the scientific notion that animals lack complex emotions. It discusses the work of scientists Jeffrey Masson and Susan McCarthy, who argue that animals experience love, grief, and fear as deeply as humans. The article cites examples like a mother elephant saving her calf and geese mating for life, contrasting these with the mechanistic view of animal behavior promoted by B.F. Skinner. It suggests that attributing human emotions to animals is a matter of arrogance, stemming from a desire to believe humans are uniquely special.

Several short reports highlight remarkable animal intelligence and surprising incidents:

• Cat Rings 999: Philippa O'Neill's cat, Chippa, accidentally dialed 999 six times by stepping on the phone's nine button.
• Clever Crows: Ecologist Gavin Hunt observed crows in New Caledonia making and using tools, such as hooks and knives, a behavior previously thought unique to early humans.
• Dog Takes the Lead: Keith Armstrong's dog, Sheba, navigated him back to his car after he became disoriented while hiking in Devon.

Mysterious Creatures and Unexplained Phenomena

The magazine features numerous accounts of strange creatures and unexplained events:

• The Leviathans: Mysterious Water Monster Sightings: This section includes reports of potential sea monsters, including a 20-meter long creature spotted in South Africa and a mysterious creature found on the lips of lobsters.
• Odd Striped Beast Seen in Australia: Multiple sightings of a strange, striped creature resembling a Tasmanian Tiger are reported in Pomona, Australia. Witnesses describe it as about two feet tall, with definite stripes on its tail area, and looking nervous and starved.
• DNA Scientists on a Quest for 'Bigfoot': OSU scientists are using a new DNA matching process to analyze hair samples believed to be from Bigfoot, aiming to determine if it is an unknown primate.
• The Beast of Buzzard: A seven-foot fish, potentially weighing 120lb, is rumored to inhabit a pit in Leighton Buzzard, UK, with one angler dedicating his life to catching it.
• Video Evidence of 'Teggie'?: A film crew at Lake Bala, North Wales, reportedly obtained video evidence of a humped creature moving beneath the water.
• The Blood-Drinking Crocodile Man: In Lake Tanganyika, Africa, a creature resembling a fish-tailed human is said to drink the blood and eat the brain of its victims.
• Essex Lion on the Prowl: Police suspect a Mountain Lion may be responsible for attacks on livestock in Essex, UK.

Animal Oddities and Incidents

Beyond the cryptid reports, the issue includes a variety of peculiar animal-related news:

• Three-year-old Christian's pet Thomas was accidentally put through a washing machine cycle but was rescued unharmed.
• Pandas Ming Ming and Li Li are featured, with the question posed if they have fallen in love.
• A 28-inch Pike clamped its jaws on a Russian fisherman's nose.
• Five Elephants raided a village in India, smashing huts and killing one man.
• A Wild Boar killed a hunter in Italy.
• A 72-year-old motorist was killed after stopping to help a rabbit.
• A Ringtail briefly knocked out a nuclear power plant in the USA.
• A Sea-Lion is accused of suffocating female partners.
• British Rail passengers experienced a delay due to escaped hamsters.
• A Stag was catapulted onto a car roof, causing a fatal accident.
• A Mako Shark attacked and sank a fishing boat off the coast of Australia.
• French Frogs are reportedly invading Britain and eating native frogs.
• Cane Toads are a plague in Australia, with scientists exploring virus solutions.
• A Zorse (Zebra-Horse hybrid) named 'White Cloud' has been bred.
• Deformed Frogs with extra legs or eyes were found in Minnesota, USA.
• A Giant Octopus was found washed up on a Spanish beach.
• Mice near Chernobyl have evolved at astonishing rates due to radiation.
• Hermaphrodite Fish that change sex are discovered.
• A Green Cat was born in Denmark.

Witchcraft, Curses, and Demonology

The issue also includes sections on darker themes:

• "Witchcraft, Curses, And Demonology In The 20th Century" discusses the changing concept of Hell and its theological implications.
• "Ancient Curse A Last Resort For Rabbis" details the use of a powerful curse, 'Pulsa de Nura,' by ultra-orthodox Jews in Jerusalem against a developer.
• "Killer Claims He Was 'Demon-Directed'" recounts an inmate's claim that a demon forced him to commit murder.
• "Vexed By Hexes" describes the creation of a 'Voodoo Squad' in Miami to deal with animal sacrifices and hexes related to court cases.
• "Children Snatched By Witches" reports on a belief that witches abducted children after a bus crash.

Atlantis and Ancient Civilizations

"In The Light Of A New Fire" by Steve Griffiths explores the mysteries of Atlantis and ancient civilizations, particularly the Maya, Aztecs, and Incas. It discusses the discovery of a tomb in Palenque, Central America, and the ongoing efforts to decipher Mayan hieroglyphics. The article touches upon theories of a single landmass connecting early civilizations and the potential for revelations about our planet's history and humanity's place within it.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of FATE Magazine consistently explores the boundaries between the known and the unknown, the scientific and the anecdotal. There is a clear editorial stance that encourages readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional scientific explanations, particularly concerning animal consciousness and the existence of mysterious creatures. The magazine presents a wide array of reports, from the mundane yet surprising (like the cat ringing 999) to the potentially world-altering (like Bigfoot evidence and ancient prophecies). The inclusion of sections on witchcraft and curses suggests an interest in phenomena that challenge rational, modern understanding. The overall tone is one of curiosity and open-mindedness towards the unexplained, inviting readers to question established beliefs and explore the more mysterious aspects of life and the natural world.

This issue of UFO Magazine, dated February 1996, focuses on a blend of ancient mysteries and contemporary UFO phenomena. It explores theories connecting ancient civilizations, such as the Olmecs and Maya, to lost continents like Atlantis, and documents numerous UFO sightings reported across the UK and Europe.

Ancient Civilizations and Lost Continents

The magazine begins by examining the Olmec civilization, suggesting they were responsible for many monuments and pyramids in Central America and invented the bar and dot counting system and calendar. Their distinctive Negroid-looking head sculptures, found in La Venta park, are noted for their unique features, hinting at possible contact with distant continents. The Olmecs are linked to the concept of Aztlan, the origin of the Aztec name, and potentially Atlantis.

The issue delves into the theory of Atlantis, referencing Plato's Timaeus and Critias. It recounts how Solon, an Athenian statesman, heard from Egyptian priests about an empire on a continent west of the Pillars of Hercules, larger than Libya and Asia combined. This empire, Atlantis, is suggested to have been familiar with continents on both sides of the Atlantic thousands of years before Columbus. The Egyptians, according to Solon, had written records of a great Athenian empire 9,000 years earlier, placing the Atlanteans around 9,600 BC.

Further connections are drawn between global myths of a great deluge and the idea of survivors repopulating the Earth. The Canary Islands' inhabitants are said to be survivors of a flood, believing their islands to be mountain peaks of a land called Atalaya. Similar legends are found in the traditions of the Basques of Northern Spain (Atlaintica) and the Berbers of North Africa (Attala), as well as Native Americans of Lake Michigan (Azatlan) and Hindu texts (Atala, 'The White Island'). The text posits that these cultures must have had contact at some point in history.

The sinking of Atlantis is described as a catastrophic event involving earthquakes and floods, swallowing the island and its inhabitants. It is hypothesized that survivors may have travelled through Europe to Siberia and crossed to Alaska via a land bridge, explaining the presence of non-indigenous animal remains in the Americas, such as lions, tigers, and elephants, found in Amerind architecture and mythology.

The article touches upon Wegener's theory of continental drift and the supercontinent Pangaea, which existed around 280 million years ago. It explains how continents like Brazil, Africa, Greenland, and Norway fit together, and how the subsequent splitting led to Laurasia (North America, Europe, Asia) and Gondwanaland (South America, Africa, India, Antarctica, Australia).

The text also explores the possibility that the tribes in Central and South America might hold answers to secrets lost due to Spanish ignorance. It suggests that survivors of a catastrophe, possibly a flood, migrated from Atlantis, splitting up and colonizing various regions, and that a civilization of survivors might still exist in unexplored parts of South America.

Percy Harrison Fawcett, a British military surveyor, is mentioned for his 1920 expedition to find lost cities in Brazil, guided by a manuscript from Joao de Silva Guimaroes. Fawcett's disappearance in 1925 while searching for a lost city in the Mato Grosso region is recounted, along with his message about finding the key to ancient South America and prehistory. A medium, Geraldine Cummins, claimed Fawcett communicated with her, stating he was in a drug-induced state, witnessing the building of South American pyramids and the destruction of Atlantis.

Further theories suggest that the method of pyramid building in Egypt and the New World might be linked. The Bennicasa map of 1482 is cited as showing a land area called Antillia, possibly a remnant of Atlantis, which may have encouraged Columbus. Lewis Spence's theory that Antillia was part of Atlantis, which split and sank, with inhabitants migrating to Europe and Antillia, is also discussed. This could explain the advanced mathematics known by Amerinds and Egyptians, with calculations of pi and solar year lengths being remarkably accurate.

The role of Viracocha, a white god from South American mythology, is explored. He is described as a master of science and magic, who brought order and knowledge, and is believed by some to be the teacher of ancient civilizations. His legend includes a dramatic event where he raised his hand to heaven, causing fire in the sky and consuming stones.

The magazine also touches upon the names Quetzalcoatl (Aztecs) and Kukulcan (Mayas), suggesting they refer to the same deity as Viracocha, a god of the sun, thunder, and rain.

Eric Von Daniken's interpretation of the Palenque tomb lid, depicting King Pacal in what he suggests is a spaceship cockpit, is presented. However, other scholars believe the figure represents King Pacal and a sacred maize tree. The Olmec sculpture 'The man in a serpent' is also discussed, with Von Daniken suggesting it depicts Quetzalcoatl flying in a 'Feathered Serpent'. These theories are challenged by Maurice Cotterail and Adrian Gilbert in their book 'The Mayan Prophecies'.

UFO Update: Keep Watching the Skies!

The issue features a significant section on UFO sightings. A report details an incident on January 6th, 1995, where a British Airways Boeing 737 approaching Manchester Airport encountered a silent, wedge-shaped UFO with flashing lights. The object came dangerously close to the aircraft, and despite an official investigation by the Joint Air Miss Group, its identity remains unknown.

Another report covers a 'Blazing Plane Riddle' in North Yorkshire in November 1995, where an unidentified 'aircraft' reportedly crashed. Despite extensive searches by RAF Mountain Rescue, police, and fire brigades, no debris was found. Initial reports involved a fireball seen by children near Tadcaster, followed by a military convoy sealing off the area.

An 'ANOTHER STRANGE HARVEST' section reports on a case of animal mutilation near Edinburgh Airport, where a sheep carcass was found with precise cuts, suggesting a medical instrument rather than a wild predator attack.

UFO CRASHES IN HEBRIDES AND SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS? details incidents where U.S. Space Command, NASA, and the Royal Navy failed to find traces of a huge fireball that crashed on the island of Jura. Similar sightings of objects flashing across the skies were reported throughout the month, culminating in a mysterious ball of fire plunging from the sky near a busy motorway on February 13th, the same night as the Jura incident.

The 'ABDUCTION' section recounts the experience of Garry Wood, who claims to have been abducted by two 'skeletal Aliens' with large heads near Harperrigg Reservoir in Scotland. His account, obtained through regressive hypnotherapy, describes an encounter with a spaceship and beings that seemed to look into his life.

Other sightings include a 'Toblerone-shaped object' seen by Andy Swan in West Lothian, Scotland, and a 'huge fireball' seen by a 12-year-old in Lanarkshire. The issue also mentions a report of an 'orangey ball of light' over Falkirk.

Alien Encounters and Theories

The article 'NOW EVEN 'ALIENS' ARE TAKING PITY ON THE TORIES' describes a man named Terry Walters who claims to have been abducted and cured of a bad back by alien beings. He believes he is descended from Ancient Pharaohs.

'THOUSANDS GATHER TO GREET ALIENS...BUT GO HOME DISAPPOINTED' reports on an event in Northern Bulgaria where approximately 1,500 people gathered, lured by mediums, awaiting the arrival of spaceships, which never appeared.

'UFO Over Ibiza' mentions a video-tape recording of a purported UFO obtained by an Italian tourist.

'UFO OVER GLENCOE' describes a climber seeing a streak of white light flash across the sky at amazing speed.

'BOSNIAN PEACE TALKS ATTENDED BY ALIENS' features conspiracy theorist Richard Hoagland, who alleges that extraterrestrials are involved in world affairs and that leaders were shown Aliens and advanced Alien technology at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, preparing for an interplanetary war.

'YET MORE SCOTTISH UFO'S' details sightings of three small objects emerging from a giant cigar-shaped UFO over Lochgilphead, Argyll, and other sightings in Lanarkshire and Falkirk.

Scientific Discoveries and Speculations

The article 'This is why the recent discovery by astronomers Marcy and Butler...' discusses the discovery of planets orbiting other stars. It highlights that the existence of life on Earth suggests life might be common in the universe, but the rarity of specific conditions, like a watery planet with the right organic mix, could make our Sun unique. The limitations of the Speed of Light for space travel are mentioned, with radio waves being a more promising means of communication. The possibility of civilizations destroying themselves shortly after developing radio technology is also raised.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the interconnectedness of ancient myths and potential lost civilizations (Atlantis, Aztlan), the prevalence of UFO sightings and alleged alien encounters, and the speculative nature of extraterrestrial contact and advanced technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these phenomena, presenting various theories and reports, while acknowledging the skepticism that often surrounds such claims. The magazine encourages readers to 'Keep Watching the Skies!' and to consider possibilities beyond conventional scientific understanding.

This issue of UFO DATA Magazine, dated February 1996, delves into a variety of UFO sightings, paranormal phenomena, and intriguing theories. The cover prominently features the headline "MARTIAN MONUMENTS ON THE EARTH?" alongside a report on a "FLYING SAUCER SCARE AT BALMORAL". The magazine is published by UFO DATA, with an ISSN of 1357-7501, and a cover price of £2.50.

Martian Monuments on Earth?

The lead article explores the theory proposed by mathematician David Percy, who previously worked for the American Mars Mission. Percy suggests that prehistoric stone circles, like the one at Avebury in Wiltshire, were constructed by homesick Martians who were replicating a monument from their home planet. He claims the mathematical fit between Avebury Circle and a giant crater in Cydonia, Mars, is so precise that the chance of coincidence is one in 100 trillion. Percy has written a book, 'TWO THIRDS', on his findings. The article also references NASA's Viking spacecraft images of Mars, which Percy interprets as showing a mile-and-a-half long pyramid and a three-dimensional face. Local archaeologist Peter Oakley finds the similarities between Avebury and the Martian features striking, while English Heritage Chief Archaeologist Geoff Wainwright dismisses the theory, stating Avebury was a temple built by early English farmers. Ms. Bennet, the publisher, remains undeterred, believing the shared mathematical coding indicates extraterrestrial influence.

Flying Saucer Scare at Balmoral

An exclusive report from the 'News of the World' details an incident where RAF jets were scrambled to investigate a UFO sighting over the Queen's Balmoral home. Locals reported seeing a mystery light, and witnesses claimed the RAF planes engaged in a dogfight with the UFO. The light appeared shortly after 10 pm and was visible from eight miles away. The report notes that security around the Royal family's home had been tightened.

Area 51... The Final Frontier?

This section discusses the re-naming of a 100-mile stretch of highway in Nevada to advertise Area 51 as a perfect landing place for extraterrestrials. The article highlights the in-famous ultra-top-secret military base and includes claims from a former worker about dismantled flying saucers and beliefs that aliens reside there. It also touches upon the 'Little A'le'inn Hotel' and the local community's adaptation to the UFO phenomenon, with businesses capitalizing on the interest.

Final Snippets

This section compiles several UFO sighting reports from Merseyside:

• 1960, Bebington: Mr C. Edwards and a friend saw a large, long, lit object travelling north with no sound, noting its height and numerous lights.
• 1965, Birkenhead North Station: G. Holes, a railway signalman, witnessed a metallic grey saucer-like object descend, hover, and then accelerate rapidly into the sky.
• May 16th, 1988, South Wirral: Mr C. Boyd saw a silver UFO with three portholes about 100ft away. It was also seen in Moreton.
• July 25th, 1994, Woodchurch: 15-year-old Louise Marie Aspinall reported her grandfather saw two large beams of light, identified as a circle with a green light and 12 coloured lights, located in the south.

Tales from the Loch-Side: 2 - In The Shadow Of Boleskine (Part One)

This multi-part article begins by exploring the concept of 'Shadowlands' – areas that retain a vivid impression of ancient horrors. The focus then shifts to Boleskine House, overlooking Loch Ness, Scotland, which was once inhabited by the infamous magician Aleister Crowley. The author recounts a personal visit to the area, describing it as having a stiflingly oppressive atmosphere. The narrative details the discovery of a derelict building near a graveyard, noting the crude, chalk inscriptions found inside, including the phrase "DO WHAT THOU WILT SHALL BE THE WHOLE OF THE LAW" written in red paint. The discovery of charred animal bones and a goat's skull within the fireplace adds to the unsettling ambiance, leading the group to leave abruptly, feeling a sense of pure evil.

The narrative continues with the author's group attempting to find Crowley's house. They encounter a woman who, after initially being uncooperative, inadvertently confirms the house still stands, though she refuses to give its exact location. The group realizes the woman may have lied about the day of the week to deter them. They then hear faint strains of pop music and locate a lodge where the head groundkeeper of Boleskine House informs them that the house itself is heavily secured with alarms and guard dogs, and that the driveway is not accessible. The groundkeeper, amused by their quest, reveals that the building they are at is actually Boleskine Lodge, and the path behind it leads to Boleskine House. The group, comprised of former members of 'The New Ferry Ghost Club', are undeterred by the security measures.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, from UFO sightings and extraterrestrial theories to paranormal phenomena and historical mysteries. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without necessarily endorsing them, but encouraging readers to consider the possibilities. Themes of ancient civilizations, alien contact, and the supernatural are prevalent throughout the issue. The inclusion of witness testimonies, expert opinions (both supportive and dismissive), and historical context suggests a commitment to investigating these subjects thoroughly, even when dealing with controversial or fringe topics.

This issue of UFO Annual from 1996 delves into a variety of paranormal, supernatural, and unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on alleged hauntings, witchcraft, and mysterious creatures. The magazine presents a mix of investigative reports, personal accounts, and news snippets from various publications.

Boleskine House: Before The Fall

The issue opens with a personal account of visiting Boleskine House, a location with a notorious reputation. The author describes the journey to find the house, hidden by hills and trees, and the anticipation of seeing it. Upon arrival, the house is described as surprisingly ordinary, lacking the terrifying appearance one might expect. However, the atmosphere is noted as being one of 'permanent semi-twilight,' with dark clouds contributing to a sense of unease. The narrative contrasts the house's current state with a romanticized vision of its past, a 'crisp, fresh Sunday morning' with paddle steamers on the Loch and tourists enjoying the scenery. This idyllic image is juxtaposed with the house's later descent into a cursed state, referred to as 'Shadowland,' where the church and burial ground fell into disrepair and the place became shunned.

The text explores the concept of an 'Eternal Struggle' between good and evil, suggesting that Boleskine may have once been cursed. It touches upon the idea that evil can manifest in subtle ways, gradually corrupting a place or people. The narrative hints at a stranger who appeared with a silver-tipped cane, and how the inhabitants were too willing to accept him, leading to a loss of innocence and a breakdown of community harmony, evidenced by increased feuds and unexplained deaths. The article concludes this section by describing the house's transformation into 'SHADOWLAND.'

A brief encounter with a peculiar car containing a man and a nun, whose smile turned into a 'sickly grin,' adds to the unsettling atmosphere of the area.

Witchcraft In The World Today

This section presents a series of news reports and brief accounts related to witchcraft, black magic, and Satanism from various sources:

• Black Magic Theory In Severed Head Horror: Police believe a severed head found by a roadside was used in a gruesome Black Magic ritual. The man had died of natural causes and was buried in December 1995, with the grave apparently desecrated weeks later.
• Mitterand Hit For 666: A celebrity fortune-teller suggests former French president Francois Mitterand might have been a secret Devil worshipper, citing the number 666 on his funeral hearse's registration and the number of windows in the Louvre pyramid.
• Satanism And Black Magic At The Rollright Stones: This report details alleged horrific experiences of Maria Pardoe, who claims to have been involved in a Satanic sect that met at the Rollright Stones. She describes sex orgies, murder, and the use of a wooden cross in disturbing rituals. The sect allegedly used drugs to control its members. Maria has planned to contact police to search for bodies near the Stones.
• Devil Cults Prey On Girls In God's Town: The article reports on alleged Satanic cults targeting young girls in Peterhead, Scotland, for bizarre rituals. A Salvation Army couple's daughter, Joy Ross, is mentioned as having been ensnared by a Satanist but later turned away from devil worship.
• Witchcraft Murders: Brief reports detail a Doomsday cult in Manila where four teenagers strangled their mother, claiming she was possessed, and the arrest of five men in Zimbabwe for murder to sell body parts for Black Magic rituals.

The Ghostly Lady

A photograph taken by amateur cameraman Tony O' Rahilly during a fire at the town hall in Wem, Shropshire, in November 1995, is claimed to show the ghost of a 17th-century peasant girl. Workmen rebuilding the hall have also reported seeing a ghostly figure.

Back From The Dead

A brief, unexplained report about a student pronounced dead after being run down by a car, who was inside a zinc coffin used for traffic accident victims.

The Beast Of Exmoor

This extensive article investigates the 'Beast of Exmoor,' first appearing in 1983 and believed to be a family of Pumas responsible for sheep killings. The author interviews Nigel Brierly, a Big Cat investigator, who has collected numerous reports and plaster casts of footprints. Brierly believes the cats are Pumas, not black leopards or panthers, and suggests a possible chain of relationship linking domestic cats to wild Pumas. The article also includes accounts from local farmers, such as Jim Gibbs, who have witnessed these large cats. The consensus is that these animals are now established and unlikely to be eradicated.

The Romance Of The Wolf

This piece discusses the extinction of the Japanese Wolf and the romanticized view of wolves held by some, contrasted with the practical fear of farmers who see them as 'Evil spirits.' It then shifts to the topic of Wolf-Dogs, cross-breeds between Alsatians/Huskies and wolves, and the concerns about their potential ferocity. The author interviews Mrs. Edwina Harrison, a breeder, who reassures that her Wolf-Dogs are well-behaved and that owners must obtain licenses. The article describes the appearance of Wolf-Dogs and their cubs, noting their resemblance to wolves and their suitability for country people accustomed to hounds.

More Weird Crime

This section compiles a series of short, often bizarre, crime reports from various sources:

• Hammer Horror: A handyman accidentally shot himself and his wife while trying to hammer a nail with his gun.
• Salesman In Park Ordeal: A salesman selling personal attack alarms was robbed at knifepoint in Birkenhead Park.
• Woman Killed By Walnut Butter: An executive died from a rare nut allergy after consuming Walnut Butter at an office party.
• Turned Into A Tomato: A hypnotist convinced a man he was a tomato, leading to him hiding in the fridge.
• Love Hurts: A man discovered the vice girl he ordered in a Tel Aviv hotel was his wife, leading to divorce.
• Wedding Ended In Farce: A groom insulted his bride's fingers during the ring exchange, causing a brawl.
• Oh No!!! Not My Car!!!: A motorist had his car mistakenly taken for scrap.
• Spotter Killed By Train: A trainspotter was killed by a train while jotting down numbers.
• Gay farmer lan Hill mistook an undercover cop's facial twitch for a wink, leading to an indecent assault charge.
• James Donner robbed a car salesman and was arrested due to a tattoo on his cheek.
• A 4ft Python was held by police in Virginia after a robber fed $1,000 in banknotes to the snake.
• A singing robber who raided a bank near Copenhagen belted out ABBA hits before fleeing.
• A thief in Esjberg, Denmark, fell into a vat of sausage dye after attempting to rob a butcher's shop.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained, the supernatural, and the darker aspects of human experience, including hauntings, witchcraft, and unusual animal sightings. There's a strong emphasis on reporting strange events and alleged paranormal occurrences, often drawing from tabloid sources. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these phenomena for the reader's consideration, with a degree of skepticism implied in some of the reporting (e.g., the 'Satanism and Black Magic' section being prefaced with 'Personally, I'd take the following with a healthy-sized dollop of salt'). The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in mysteries, folklore, and the fringes of accepted reality, presenting a wide array of sensational and often bizarre stories.

This document is a collection of reviews for various paranormal and fortean magazines, presented as part of an 'EXCHANGE MAGAZINE REVIEWS' section, likely from a larger publication. The primary focus is on reviewing other magazines, providing summaries of their content, subscription details, and contact information. The issue date appears to be September 1996, with the main review focusing on 'THE FORTEAN TIMES #86'.

The Fortean Times #86

The review praises 'The Fortean Times' for its high standards of production and writing, calling it a 'yardstick' for others. This particular issue is described as the best yet, featuring a wide range of articles including 'Dinosaurs Surviving In The Congo', 'Psychic Sleuths', a forum piece by Kevin McClure on 'End Time Mythology', a new Nessie picture, the full 'Strange Days' feature in technicolor, and part two of 'The Fortean aspects of "The X-Files"'. The reviewer expresses awe at the content, calling it 'Sheer magic'. Subscription details are provided for UK readers.

Other Magazine Reviews

Annals #26

Described as another 'superb edition', Annals #26 is noted for its high standards and includes articles on 'The Roswell Autopsy Film', 'Lunar Enigmas', 'The Face On Mars', 'Crop Circles', 'Archaeological Cover-ups', and 'Mystery Clouds'. Sample copy and subscription details are given.

Trans UFO #2

This publication is highly praised for translating UFO articles from Scandinavian countries and Argentina into English. The edition reviewed features 'Danish UFO sightings 1992-3', 'Flying Discs in Sweden', and 'Crop Circles in Argentina'. The reviewer laments that the magazine only comes out twice a year. Sample issue and subscription details are provided.

Haunted Scotland Newsletter #6

Mark Fraser is commended for producing this free newsletter. The latest issue covers 'Ghosts encountered in the Gateway To The Highlands', 'UFO reports', and a selection of 'Scottish press clippings'. Contact details for Mark Fraser are listed.

Demeter IV

A vampire fanzine, described as a 'must for anyone even remotely interested in Vampire lore'. The current edition includes 'Vampire Therapy', 'Dr. Blood's Film Reviews', 'the Real-Life Vlad Dracul', and ghost stories. Sample and subscription details are provided.

The Goblin Universe #1

From the creators of 'Animals and Men', this is a 'surrealist production dealing primarily with... Well, er, weird shit'. It features an interview with Jon Downes And The Amphibians From Outer Space, news, strange fiction, and 'obscene poems about postmen'. Sample issue details are given.

Ghostwatch #10 Vol 2

Another 'marvellous edition' featuring articles on 'Electronic Voice Phenomena', 'Poltergeists', 'hooking up to the Supernatural Internet', 'a look at haunted pubs', and a Christmas poem. Contact details are provided.

Spectral! #5

Considered a 'sister magazine to Ghostwatch', this publication covers supernatural entities. Issue #5 includes articles on 'The Cock Lane Ghost', 'Leicester's Most Haunted Building: Braunstone Hall', 'A Ghost Walk In London', and cases from Malcolm Robinson's S.P.I. files. It is described as 'highly readable and well worth a look'. Sample issue and subscription details are provided.

Awareness #3 Vol 20

This is noted as an 'established and long-running publication'. No specific content is detailed for this issue, but it is described as an 'outstanding mag'.

3rd Stone #22

Described as the 'best-produced magazine on our exchange list' (aside from The Fortean Times), this glossy publication calls itself 'The Magazine For The New Antiquarian'. It covers mysteries related to Britain's ancient past, with articles on 'Otherworld Cattle', 'Time And Place - The TV Of Our Minds', 'Under The Greenwood Tree', and 'The Wise Man Of Gotham'. The reviewer highlights the 'welcome dollop of humour' and 'first class' photo reproductions. Sample issue and subscription details are provided.

Encounters #6

The reviewer is critical of the magazine's self-proclaimed title 'The World's Most Paranormal Magazine', calling it 'cursed with a major case of over-inflated self-importance'. While acknowledging it is 'well-produced and lavishly illustrated', the reviewer finds the content, with headlines like 'Shape-Shifter: Exclusive Hypnotic Regression Reveals Greys Can Shape Shift', 'UFO Top Secrets Exposed', and 'Ouija Medium Explains The Dangers Of Using The Board', to be 'lurid' and 'about as genuine as a politician's smile'. Despite the 'juvenile' writing, it is found to be 'not un-entertaining'. The reviewer questions whether this style of journalism sells magazines.

COUD-I

This section is a call for readers to send their 'Strange Phenomena Clipppings' to Raymond Nelke at COUD-I in St. Louis, USA. In return, Nelke will send a 'Package Full Of Weird And Wonderful News Cuttings From All Over The World'.

The Journal Of Contact International UK

This publication features a tribute to the late Lord Clancarty, a look at the 'Earthlights Hypothesis', a 'Dossier Of Greek Mythology', and an examination of whether 'electromagnetic influences on the brain can cause UFO sightings'. It is recommended for 'serious-minded Ufologists'.

At The Edge #1

Formerly 'Mercian Mysteries', this is described as an 'extremely well-produced affair' and 'one of the best on the market'. It is also 'well-written' and includes articles on archaeology and folklore.

Northern UFO News #173

Jenny Randles' magazine is praised for its 'latest UFO news and features', including pieces on 'The M.O.D. and UFO's', Jenny's BBC documentary, Mike Wooten of BUFORA on the commercial side of Ufology, and 'aerial wonders from the wilds of Wales'. It is 'highly recommended'.

UFO Network News International #1

This is a new publication that includes a large collection of 'latest UFO newsclippings', 'Skywatch reports from around the Leeds area', and the 'Maurice Masse UFO/Occupants encounter'.

Animals and Men #8

This is the reviewer's 'fave magazine', focusing on 'Cryptozoology'. The latest issue features 'Green Cats and Dogs', 'The Puerto Rican Goatsucker', 'The Malayan Mystery Man-Beast', 'Cryptocetology (mystery Whales)', and the discovery of a new species in Derbyshire. It is described as 'Simply brilliant stuff!!!'.

Enigmas #43

Malcolm Robinson's publication for his 'Strange Phenomena Investigations (S.P.I.)' is described as a 'high quality/quantity mix of Forteana'. The current issue covers 'The Falkirk UFO Event', 'Ghostly Happenings in a Scottish Restaurant', and S.P.I. research work.

Network News

The 'Beastly Solar Conspiracy Issue' features newsclippings on 'Alien Animals', 'strange animal behaviour', the 'Occult Power Of Money', and 'Signs And Portents'. It is recommended for those wanting to stay informed of paranormal news.

Psychic News #3321

With 'Over 60 years' weekly reporting on Spiritualism and the Paranormal', this paper provides an overview of current events in the supernatural world. The latest edition includes reports on an exorcism in Widness, 'Body Invaders', 'Encounters With Angels', 'Hypnotic Regression', and a 'possibly anomalous photo from Portugal'.

Magonia #55

Described as 'consistently well-written' and 'crammed with thought-provoking articles', Magonia #55 includes pieces by Kevin McClure on 'Bogeymen' (a critique of alien abduction proponent methods), Mick Goss on the 'Killer Black Monk Of Beachy Head', the 'UFO/Occupants encounter by Father Gill in Papua, New Guinea', and more. It is noted for its 'healthy scepticism'.

OVNI# March Issue

This newsletter from The Phenomena Research Association features news from the field of Ufology. The March edition includes a revelation that the 'Santilli Film has been torn to shreds' at the Leeds UFO conference, with a review of the affair and a piece by Barry.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these reviews are forteana, ufology, cryptozoology, archaeology, folklore, and the paranormal in general. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical engagement, appreciating well-produced and informative content while also being willing to critique sensationalism or perceived lack of substance, as seen in the review of 'Encounters #6'. There is a clear interest in a wide range of unusual phenomena, from ancient mysteries to modern UFO sightings and paranormal experiences.