Dead of Night - No 12 - 1997

Magazine Overview

Title: DEAD OF NIGHT MAGAZINE
Issue: 12
Date: June/July 1997
Price: £2
Publisher: Not specified
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of Dead of Night Magazine, subtitled "Merseyside's Only Publication Dealing With All Paranormal Phenomena!!!", presents a wide-ranging collection of articles exploring various aspects of the supernatural, folklore, and unexplained occurrences. The cover features a striking, dark illustration of a monstrous figure emerging from behind a curtain towards a human.

Editorial: Ghosts And Devils Over Merseyside

The editorial, written by the magazine's editor, reflects on a lifelong fascination with the supernatural, sparked by a 'DRACULA LIVES!' comic found at a jumble sale. The editor muses on the inexplicable nature of personal preferences, comparing the fascination with the paranormal to the choices people make regarding music or lifestyle. The piece touches upon childhood memories of collecting horror comics and recording horror movies, highlighting a deep-seated interest in the macabre and the mysterious that has persisted into adulthood. The editor also recalls the graffiti on the 'New Ferry Shore' and how it served as a poignant reminder of lost youth and fading memories, drawing parallels between the ephemeral nature of life and the enduring power of the supernatural.

Contents Overview

The table of contents reveals a diverse array of articles, spanning local folklore, historical mysteries, and contemporary paranormal reports. Topics include:

• Local Folklore & Legends: "The Soft Whisper Of The Dead: New Ferry Folk Tales Part One", "Faerie Rings", "The Mysterious Glowing Grave Of Durham", "Ghostly Tales: Spooks In The U.S. Capital", "Haunted House Of Commons/Ghost Of Sigglesthorne Hall", "Phantom Planes Of The Peak District", "Ghostly Monk Of St Andrews/Eastham Smoke Spook".
• Supernatural & Occult: "Chasing The Unbrown: Raising The Dead, Cloning And Ressurrection", "Vampires On The Prowl", "Witchcraft, Demonology, Satanic Ritual Abuse", "Magical Sex And Voodoo In Miami", "King Of The Witches/Devil Worship In Egypt".
• Unexplained Phenomena & Anomalies: "Screaming Grass, Singing Sand, Exploding Phones, etc.", "Medical Anomalies-Strange Human Behaviour", "Weird Crime/Cannibalism/Hopelss Burglars", "Gnome Liberators, Testicle-Biters, Mariac Doeroes", "Woman From Under The Stairs/Hellish Marriages", "Cosmic Jokes/Incredible Coincidences", "Amorous Whales, Missing Elephants, Mutant Creatures", "Cat Burglars And Gold-Digging Ants", "Flying Pigs And Ball-Stealing Crows", "Real Bird Brains.", "Raging Bulls And Insects On The March", "Killer Animals", "Philippine Gill People And Eel Monsters".
• Cults & Belief Systems: "Touched From A Distance: In-Depth Analysis Of The Heavens Gate Cult", "Miracle Cures And Visions Of The Virgin Mary".
• UFOs: "Keep Watching The Skies!!! UFO Update: Are We Descended From Aliens", "UFO's In Court Malcolm Robinson Argues The Case For The reality of UFO's".

Article: The Soft Whisper Of The Dead: New Ferry Folk Tales Part One

This article, the first part of a series on New Ferry folk tales, begins with a vivid description of a perfect Sunday afternoon in mid-Spring. The narrative then shifts to Dennis Cartwright, an 18-year-old apprentice welder, who awakens with a severe hangover. The story details his experiences the previous night, involving a night out with friends, meeting a woman named Julie, and a subsequent encounter with her "common-law husband," Eric, which leaves Dennis feeling used and disheartened. He reflects on his father's cautionary words about trusting people. The story then transitions to Dennis being tasked by his boss, Harry Netherton, to investigate reports of firecrackers at 'The Big Hill', a disused fuel storage plant. Dennis approaches the task with trepidation, aware of the local legends surrounding the area, including the disappearance of teenagers Alicia Gettings and Eddie Bryant. He discovers a hole in the concrete structure, leading into a dark, water-filled corridor. His exploration leads him to a disturbing encounter with what appears to be a decomposed corpse of a young boy, and a subsequent terrifying experience involving a figure resembling Julie, which drives him to flee in panic.

Article: Faerie Rings. Roy Kerridge Takes a Brief Look At The Lore Of The 'Little People'

This piece by Roy Kerridge explores the folklore surrounding faerie rings and the concept of 'Little People', likely referring to fairies or similar mythical beings.

Article: Chasing The Unbrown : Raising The Dead, Cloning And Ressurrection

This article delves into the themes of resurrection, cloning, and the raising of the dead, exploring these concepts from a paranormal or speculative perspective.

Article: Screaming Grass, Singing Sand, Exploding Phones, etc.

This article appears to be a collection of strange, unexplained phenomena, possibly anecdotal reports of unusual occurrences.

Article: Medical Anomalies-Strange Human Behaviour

This section focuses on unusual or inexplicable human behaviors and potential medical anomalies.

Article: Weird Crime/Cannibalism/Hopelss Burglars

This article covers a range of disturbing criminal activities, including cannibalism and burglaries.

Article: Touched From A Distance: In-Depth Analysis Of The Heavens Gate Cult

This piece provides an in-depth analysis of the Heaven's Gate cult, a group known for its apocalyptic beliefs and mass suicide.

Article: UFO's In Court Malcolm Robinson Argues The Case For The reality of UFO's

Malcolm Robinson presents an argument for the reality of UFOs, likely discussing evidence or legal cases related to unidentified flying objects.

Subscription Details

Details for subscribing to Dead of Night are provided: £10 for six issues, available from Lee Walker at 156, Bolton Rd East, New Ferry, Merseyside, L62 4RY.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the darker, more mysterious, and often unsettling aspects of the paranormal and supernatural. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness and fascination with the unexplained, encouraging readers to consider phenomena beyond conventional understanding. Themes of local folklore, unexplained events, occult practices, and UFOs are prominent, suggesting a focus on the uncanny and the bizarre, often with a regional emphasis on Merseyside.

Title: Chasing the Unknown
Issue: Part Two
Date: July 1997

This issue of 'Chasing the Unknown' delves into a variety of intriguing and often disturbing topics, ranging from the scientific and the paranormal to the criminal and the bizarre. The cover story, "CAN WE NOW RESURRECT THE DEAD?", explores the implications of cloning technology and its potential to bring back the deceased, while other articles touch upon UFO sightings, ancient myths, and a collection of unusual 'weird crime' incidents from around the globe.

Article: Six: Dennis's Story

The issue begins with the harrowing account of Dennis, a patient in a psychiatric ward. After an incident involving an 'entrance' to a hill, Dennis fell into a coma and later recounted a story that doctors and psychologists dismissed, leading to his confinement in a secure ward. His parents were distraught by his increasingly bizarre talk of dead people and an underground 'eternal darkness.' The situation escalated when Dennis attacked his former boss, Harry Netherton, blinding him in one eye with a silk tie pin, screaming, "You knew. You bastard Harry, you knew. You knew and you still sent me there. YOU KNEEFEEEWWWWW!!!"

Letter: Seven: From a Letter Found in Cell 128b

A letter dated July 17th, 1979, from Cell 128b at Clatterbridge Psychiatric Unit, is addressed to "Dear Mum and Dad." The writer, presumably Dennis, expresses his belief that he will not be alive when the letter is read. He acknowledges his parents' disbelief in his account of events, attributing it to his 'crazy talk.' He mentions being in a padded cell with only a blunt crayon for writing, as he is not allowed anything sharp after the incident with Harry. He hints at a truth that would make suicide seem like a blessing and speaks of 'ceaseless whispering' and a fear of something trying to get into his cell. The letter concludes with the sound of scratching at the door, and a note about the chief warder finding the cell door wide open.

Article: Faerie Rings

This section explores the folklore surrounding 'Faerie Rings.' It discusses human-sized faeries living in hills and dancing around stone circles, and smaller faeries associated with toadstools. The article references the book 'THE SECRET COUNTRY' by Janet and Colin Bord, noting their interpretation of a mound as a 'Faerie Hill' and a UFO-shaped object as a 'Toadstool.' It suggests that larger faeries might be a confused race memory of Neolithic people and that the concept of 'Faerie-Land' under the hill, from which mortals cannot leave if they partake of food or drink, might relate to ancient burial sites.

Article: Chasing the Unknown: Part Two - Can We Now Resurrect the Dead?

This multi-page feature examines the scientific advancements in cloning and their ethical implications. It discusses the creation of 'Dolly,' the first cloned sheep, and the revelation that live tissue was frozen as part of the process. The article raises the possibility of replicating babies who die at birth or even older children, and the idea of people donating tissue samples for future cloning. Concerns are voiced about the potential for a 'genetic underclass' and the misuse of cloning technology, with comparisons drawn to Nazi eugenics experiments. The article details the scientific process of cloning, explaining DNA, nucleus removal, and implantation. It notes that while human cloning is currently illegal, the technology is advancing rapidly, with scientists already cloning human embryos in test tubes. The section also reports on the first cloning of monkeys, highlighting the genetic similarity between humans and primates, and the potential for using cloned animals for drug testing. Finally, it touches upon the controversial idea of creating 'humanised animals' for medical purposes and a report about Japanese scientists attempting to create a world without men by developing a technique for pregnancies without sperm.

Article: Uncovering the Anomalous: Birds May Be Descended From Dinosaurs

This piece reports on the discovery of a 121-million-year-old feathered dinosaur fossil in China. Palaeontologists suggest this find provides strong evidence that birds evolved from dinosaurs, based on the fossil's downy white stripe and similarities in hip bone structure to certain dinosaur groups. Phil Currie, a fossil-hunter, expressed his amazement at the find, noting that feathers had previously only been found on birds.

Article: The Legendary Amazons: A Real Display Of Girl Power

Archaeologist Jeannine Davis-Kimball has found evidence of the legendary race of super-women known as The Amazons. Her research in the Russian steppes uncovered graves containing military weapons, suggesting the existence of warrior women who may have been the original Amazons described by Greek historians. The article speculates that these women might have even served in Roman cavalry units in Britain.

Short Reports: Screaming Grass and Singing Sand

This section presents two brief reports:
1. Screaming Grass: Scientists have discovered that plants emit audible cries for help when under intense stress. A machine has been invented to detect these 'screams' via ethylene gas, which can be amplified to broadcast the sounds. This technology is being used to study plant stress levels and communication.
2. Singing Sand: Experts theorize that the 'singing sand' phenomenon in the Sahara Desert is caused by silica gel on sand grains causing them to clump together and resonate tunefully when falling down dunes.

Short Reports: Exploding Toilets, Telephones, And Car Windshields

• This section compiles several unusual incidents:
• Exploding Car Windshields: Over 120 reports of rear windshields inexplicably blowing out on highways in Los Angeles within a three-week period.
• Burning Cell Phone: A Brazilian military police colonel suffered third-degree burns when a cellular phone on his belt exploded.

Short Reports: Medical Anomalies

• This section highlights several peculiar medical cases:
• Identical Quadruplets: Four identical baby girls were born to a New York couple, an event considered extremely rare.
• Extraordinary Growth: A five-year-old boy named Daniel Tatham weighed eight stone and was 4ft tall, significantly exceeding average growth rates, baffling doctors.
• Ball-Point Pen in Head: A man from Amsterdam claims he swallowed a ball-point pen as a child, and an X-ray later revealed a chunk of it lodged in his head.

Article: Back From The Dead

• This article recounts two instances of people who were presumed dead but revived:
• In Hamburg, Germany, a woman woke up in her coffin after being pronounced dead by doctors.
• In Taranto, Italy, a man sat up on a mortuary slab just before embalming was to begin.

Article: Strange Human Behaviour: The Family That Slays Together

This disturbing report details a case in Western Siberia where a family of cannibals murdered 22 youngsters, selling their flesh as rissoles. The victims were lured to the family's apartment, murdered, and then processed through an electric meat mincer. Detectives believe some victims were forced to assist in preparing the human snacks before being killed. The family also used human remains to feed their pet dog. The crimes were discovered when council engineers attempted to access the apartment for heating system inspection.

Weird Crime

• This section presents a series of bizarre criminal incidents:
• Popping Out For A Bite: A woman in Groton, Connecticut, was accused of biting four people, two of whom required hospitalization.
• Host Of Hopeless Burglars And Robbers: Several anecdotes of inept criminals are shared, including a bank robber who waited for police to arrive, a thief who wore the prosecuting lawyer's stolen jacket, raiders who stole aviation equipment worth millions, and a burglar caught after reporting a break-in at his own home.
• Nicholas Orpin: A robber who targeted a bank near his home because he lacked a getaway car, and who dropped part of his haul during his escape.

Short Reports: Giving Them The Slip

This brief report mentions warders issuing suntan lotion to convicts working outdoors at San Carlos Prison in Venezuela, allowing 49 inmates to escape.

Short Reports: Total Overreactions

• This section details extreme reactions to minor annoyances:
• Husband Murdered for Singing: A woman in Amsterdam murdered her husband because he refused to stop singing 'The Barber Of Seville.'
• Argument Ended by Biting: In Edmonton, Alberta, a woman bit off the middle finger of her mother-in-law during an argument.

Article: The Way The Cookie Crumbles

A man in Long Hill, New Jersey, attacked a Girl Scout because the cookie selection failed to meet his appetite. He dragged her into the bathroom, but she was rescued by her father and brother.

Article: Feud Over A Dowry

In Agra, India, a wife was mistreated by her husband due to an insufficient dowry. She and her three younger sisters committed suicide. The article highlights the ongoing prevalence of dowry-related abuse and violence against women in India, despite legal reforms.

Short Reports: The Crazies Are Out There...

• This section compiles several peculiar incidents:
• Spacemen, Gnome-Liberators, Testicle-Biters And Other Assorted Lunacy:
• A man in Finland was fired for wearing a space suit instead of his uniform.
• The 'Gnome Liberation Front' in France was stealing garden gnomes.
• A Santa Claus in Milan, Italy, assaulted people with his sack for refusing to donate to charity.
• The Maniac Dwarf: A report from Algeria describes a psychotic dwarf allegedly beheading 31 people with an axe. The incident is linked to Muslim fanatics and a wider massacre.
• The Phantom Trouser Stealer: A thief was stealing doctors' trousers from Brighton General Hospital.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features a fascination with the unusual, the unexplained, and the sensational. There is a clear editorial stance that favors reporting on bizarre crimes, paranormal phenomena, and strange medical cases, often with a sensationalist tone. The inclusion of numerous short reports from various international sources suggests an effort to cover a wide range of peculiar events. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the fringes of science, the supernatural, and the darker aspects of human behavior, often presenting these topics with a degree of morbid curiosity and a hint of alarmism.

This issue of "CHASING THE UNKNOWN: The Latest Weird And Wonderful News From Around The World" from 1997, presents a collection of bizarre, unusual, and often disturbing news stories from various global locations. The magazine covers a wide spectrum of topics, including cult activities, UFO sightings, comets, supernatural phenomena, and peculiar personal anecdotes.

Comets, Cults, UFO's and the Entrance to Heaven's Gate

The lead article discusses the impact of the Comet Hale-Bopp, linking it to historical disasters and predicting future global events such as crop failure, climate change, and mass panic. Dr. Victor Chube, a senior research fellow in astrophysics, theorizes that comets have historically been harbingers of doom and may have caused events like the fall of the Holy Roman Empire and the collapse of Bronze Age civilizations. The article also touches upon the Heaven's Gate cult's mass suicide, which occurred in the context of the comet's appearance, and the belief that they were to be transported to another planet via a UFO.

The 'Higher Source' Cult

This section details the background and beliefs of 'The Higher Source' cult, which gained notoriety after 39 members committed suicide in 1997 to rendezvous with a UFO. The cult, led by 'He' and 'She' (later identified as Marshall Herff Applewhite and Bonnie Lu Nettles), preached a gospel of leaving behind earthly possessions and relationships to transform into beings of 'The next level above human' and be taken aboard a spaceship by Jesus Christ.

The Sad-Eyed Lies of the Beautiful Children

This piece investigates the 'Human Metamorphosis Cult' (HIM), also known as 'The Two,' led by Applewhite and Nettles. The article recounts their origins, their claims of being extraterrestrial beings, and their methods of recruiting followers. It details instances of family desertion and the disappearance of cult members. The cult's teachings involved a 'process' to 'flake away everything human' and achieve a higher state of being, with the promise of an interstellar journey.

'Satanic Ritual Abuse' Rife in Danville

This report covers the arrest of Robbie Moore and Kimberly Harris in Danville, USA, for allegedly molesting children under the guise of teaching them about Witchcraft. The article touches upon the broader, often sensationalized, claims of 'Satanic Ritual Abuse' networks, while also noting that investigations into such cases have often found individual abusers rather than a widespread conspiracy.

Sacrifice In The Name Of Magick

This story details the tragic case of Ruth Neave, who strangled her six-year-old son, Rikki, in an attempt to win back her estranged husband. The article highlights Neave's fascination with the occult, particularly Aleister Crowley's writings, and the disturbing parallels between the crime scene and a drawing of Christ in a cruciform position within a pentangle.

Devil-Worship in Modern-Day Egypt

In Cairo, forty-five students were charged with worshipping the 'Evil One.' The police arrested them for allegedly drinking each other's blood and engaging in orgies. The report notes the students were educated and from good families, but the police viewed their actions as criminal.

The 'King of the Witches' Crusade

This piece describes Kevin Carlyon, a self-styled 'High Priest Of British Witches,' who was accused of trying to conjure a spell to save a school playground in Honor Oak, London. Despite local concerns, the council ultimately supported his intentions.

Voodoo Takes Hold in Miami

The article explores the commercialization of Voodoo practices in Miami, where rituals are performed for paying spectators in a nightclub setting. It describes the ceremony of Gede, honoring the Spirit of the Dead, and how these practices have adapted to American society while maintaining their cultural roots.

Other Peculiar News Items

The magazine also includes a series of short, quirky news briefs from around the world, such as:

• A man in Pennsylvania facing charges for biting a dog.
• A 'Cigarette Saboteur' in Athens forcing smokers to eat their remaining cigarettes.
• German police baffled by the discovery of hundreds of penis photographs in a library.
• A man in Japan arrested for wearing 11 bras and 27 pairs of women's underwear.
• A woman suing her psychiatrist for convincing her she had 120 personalities.
• A woman who promoted global peace by dressing in revealing outfits and waving flags.
• A grieving bride marrying her deceased fiancé.
• A judge granting a divorce because a wife organized a lottery with herself as the prize.
• A groom arrested for punching his mother-in-law at his wedding.
• A man who moved into a tree after fighting with one of his two wives.
• A bride marrying a man who was stone cold dead.
• A shark attack on a participant in a yacht race at an aquarium.
• A taxi driver discovering his wife's affair when a passenger asked to be taken to her home.
• An inventor's 'Friendship Spray' that made children cry.
• A man falling to his death while serenading his girlfriend.
• A rain dancer charged with manslaughter after six people died in a flood.
• A man terrified by 'asteroids' that turned out to be luminous balloons.
• Sisters dying within hours of each other from identical heart conditions.
• A lottery winner in Wisconsin with the numbers 666.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the fascination with the unknown, the supernatural, and the bizarre. The magazine seems to embrace the sensational and the unusual, presenting these stories with a tone that is often incredulous but also intrigued. There's a clear interest in cults, UFOs, and alleged paranormal activities, as well as a penchant for reporting on strange human behavior and unusual events. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these 'weird and wonderful' news items to an audience that shares a similar curiosity about the unexplained and the unconventional aspects of life.

This issue of the "Sunday Mirror Magazine" (though the cover title is "Standing At The Threshold Of Heaven's Gate") focuses heavily on the mass suicide of the Heaven's Gate cult in March 1997, linking it to the appearance of Comet Hale-Bopp. It also explores a variety of other unusual and paranormal events, personal miracle stories, and odd news items from around the world.

Heaven's Gate Mass Suicide and Beliefs

The central theme revolves around the tragic end of the Heaven's Gate cult. The article details how 39 members, including their former leader Marshall Applewhite (also known as 'Do'), committed suicide in Rancho Santa Fe, California. The cult believed that the arrival of Comet Hale-Bopp was a sign for them to leave their physical bodies and ascend to a higher evolutionary level in a spacecraft.

The magazine recounts the cult's history, mentioning its origins with Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Lu Nettles ('The Two') and their subsequent evolution into 'Heaven's Gate'. It highlights their philosophy of leaving 'this world' and their belief in an extraterrestrial 'True Kingdom Of God' in contrast to 'Luciferian' alien races who engage in abductions. The advert from 'USA TODAY' on May 27th, 1993, is cited, warning of the 'recycling' of Earth's civilization and the inhabitants' refusal to evolve.

Former cult members expressed that the group's appearance was a 'marker' they had been waiting for. The article notes that the cult members were found dressed in black, with closely cropped hair, and each had a packed suitcase and $5 in their pockets. The suicide was carried out in three separate groups. The magazine also touches on the cult's public outreach, including satellite TV broadcasts and advertisements, and their philosophy titled 'Last Chance To Advance Beyond Human.'

Other Paranormal and Unusual Events

Beyond the Heaven's Gate tragedy, the magazine presents a collection of other intriguing and often bizarre stories:

The Crying Virgin Of Civitavecchia

Claims emerged from Civitavecchia, Italy, about a statue of the Virgin Mary weeping human blood. Bishop Girolamo Grillo was at the center of these allegations, which split the town between believers and skeptics. Forensic experts reportedly confirmed the streaks were human blood, but the Vatican's Doctrinal Department was yet to make a declaration. The event was also seen by some as a way to boost the local economy through religious tourism.

The Mystery Of The Glowing Grave

In Wingate, Co Durham, UK, a gravestone belonging to Corporal George Henry Longstaff began to emit a 'strange, supernatural light' in early 1997. While locals were intrigued, some even using the numbers on the stone for the National Lottery, the local priest suggested a rational explanation: the reflection of a nearby streetlight.

The Doomsday Boy

The story of Ilya Zaitseva, a four-year-old boy from Russia, is presented. He reportedly has a 'rare gift' or 'curse' of predicting terrible catastrophes through his drawings. His mother, Vera, expressed fear of him, and he was said to have predicted the deaths of relatives and major world disasters.

Talking Mangoes and Crucifixes

In India, thousands of civilians were reportedly flocking to worship a talking mango tree that allegedly warned a lumberjack to stop cutting it down. In Louisiana, USA, police had to patrol a house due to crowds gathering to see a crucifix shape that appeared in a bathroom window.

Personal Miracles and Unusual Occurrences

The magazine also features several stories of personal transformation and seemingly miraculous events:

Case One: A Miracle Cure (Louis)

Louis, who suffered from Alzheimer's disease and was unable to recognize his family, reportedly made a full recovery after following a regime involving eliminating aluminum from his diet and taking magnesium supplements. He believes he discovered a key piece of information about mercury and aluminum in the brain.

Case Two: The Power Of A Prayer (Lee)

Delma Bowen's grandson, Lee, narrowly escaped death when he was pushed out of a car just before it plunged off a bridge, killing the other occupants. Delma attributes his survival to a prayer she was saying at the time, asking for him to be snatched from danger.

Case Three: Tears Of The Virgin Mary (Statue)

Mary Murray kept a statue of the Virgin Mary that reportedly wept red liquid from its eyes and moved. This phenomenon attracted many visitors, and some claimed to have been cured after touching the statue.

Case Four: The Well Of Answered Dreams (Fertility Symbol)

Ian White found a three-headed pregnant woman fertility symbol in a well. His wife, Sharon, who had experienced several miscarriages, subsequently gave birth to their daughter Emily. The symbol is said to have helped at least 20 couples with fertility problems.

Case Five: The Sound Of The Voice (Tony Budell)

Tony Budell, who was experiencing severe loneliness and suicidal thoughts, claims to have heard the voice of God, which gave him the strength to overcome his struggles and dedicate his life to charity work.

Case Six: Let The Music Play... (John Markham)

John Markham, who had no prior musical interest, began writing 600 hymns after a vision of the Virgin Mary. He believes the songs are sent from Heaven.

Case Seven: From The Brink Of Death To A New Life (Fiona Nicholson)

Fiona Nicholson, after a near-fatal accident involving a speedboat propeller, decided to build a new life and became a counselor, finding new purpose.

Strange Days In The Animal Kingdom

The issue also touches upon the phenomenon of mass strandings of whales and dolphins, exploring theories that it might be a response to man's over-exploitation of the sea or even a deliberate 'death wish' by the species. The North Sea is identified as a potential 'whale trap'.

'When Fate Turns Its Back...' (Odd News Snippets)

A collection of short, often darkly humorous, news items are presented, detailing bizarre accidents and unfortunate events. These include a couple injured trying to light dynamite in their car, a gang attempting to rob a bank vault that had been closed for three years, a man paying compensation for smashing his wife's car (which turned out not to be hers), a burglar drowning in a vat of spinach, and other unfortunate incidents involving car thieves, parachutists, and a trucker drowning in a beer tanker.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, the supernatural, unexplained phenomena, and personal transformation. There's a clear fascination with cults, UFOs, miracles, and the fringes of belief. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events, often with a slightly sensationalist or curious tone, presenting them as 'strange days' and 'mysteries'. While some stories are framed as personal triumphs or miracles, others, like the Heaven's Gate suicide, highlight the darker side of extreme belief systems. The magazine seems to cater to an audience interested in the unexplained and the extraordinary aspects of life, often drawing from tabloid and less mainstream news sources.

This issue of The Sunday Magazine, dated March 1997, presents a collection of diverse and often unusual stories, ranging from animal behavior and unexplained phenomena to paranormal accounts and scientific curiosities. The cover story, "GHOSTLY TALES," introduces campfire ghost stories from the pages of the magazine, featuring personal accounts from actors and public figures.

Animal Encounters and Mysteries

The magazine opens with a report on dolphins and whales dying off the coasts of America and the Mediterranean, with experts attributing the deaths to morbilivirus and pollution. A lighter story follows about a Norwegian fisherman who experienced a 'courtship dance' from a 50ft whale. In Sri Lanka, a bizarre incident involved a herd of elephants going missing from Buddhist temples, suspected of being stolen. A study of ponds in Cornwall revealed frogs of unusual colors, including orange, yellow, pink, peach, cream, and white, with scientists explaining this as a result of albinism.

Further animal-related stories include the mystery of 'gold-digging ants' potentially referring to marmots in the Himalayas, and a new theory on how insects stay aloft, involving the creation of an air cylinder above their wings. The issue also highlights the unusual behavior of a cat named Alfie, who became a notorious 'burglar' in Mousehole, and a cat named Georgie who foiled a thief. A rampaging bull in Dartington caused chaos, attacking three people before being shot dead. The UK's railway system is facing problems due to an explosion in the rabbit population, undermining embankments. In the USA, efforts are underway to combat the invasive fire ant using new biological weapons. Other animal incidents include a man's death after being attacked by his pet peacock, a woman's death in a collision with a moose, moose damaging aircraft in Alaska, and a giraffe incident that led to a zookeeper's coma.

Paranormal and Unexplained Phenomena

The "GHOSTLY TALES" section features personal accounts of paranormal experiences. Actors Ricky Tonkinam, Michael Aspel, Julia Sawatha, and Jousthan Korrigen, along with author Jilly Cooper and actor Clear Wind, share stories of ghosts, hauntings, and unexplained presences. These accounts range from ghostly figures in old buildings to spectral voices and premonitions.

Unusual Discoveries and Theories

The magazine explores the phenomenon of birds evolving without penises, with a study suggesting it's due to female birds preferring partners with less prominent reproductive organs. The Seychelles Warbler is highlighted for its ability to alter the sex ratio of its offspring based on environmental conditions. A golf ball thief, a crow, is reported to have stolen a golfer's ball mid-game. The issue also touches on the Loch Ness mystery, with a report on a discovered 'hole' or 'cave' in the loch bed, and an 'eel-like monster' carcass washed up in the Philippines. A re-discovered 'Extinct Lion' in a South African circus, potentially a Barbary Lion, is also featured.

Bizarre Incidents and Health Concerns

Further bizarre incidents include a python found in a toilet, a wild turkey causing a three-hour stand-off with a trucker, and a gorilla at the City Zoo throwing straw and droppings. Sharks and snakes are also featured, with a Great White Shark attacking a dinghy and a python found in a home. Health concerns are raised regarding mosquitoes carrying Eastern equine encephalitis in Connecticut and the potential spread of tropical diseases in Britain due to global warming. The Philippine 'Gill-People,' a family claiming to have gills and the ability to breathe underwater, are also under investigation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of The Sunday Magazine consistently explores the unusual, the unexplained, and the bizarre. There's a clear fascination with animal behavior that deviates from the norm, paranormal experiences, and strange occurrences that defy easy explanation. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and reporting on these phenomena, often presenting them with a sense of wonder or intrigue, and sometimes a touch of humor. The magazine acts as a compendium of oddities, drawing from various sources to present a wide array of peculiar events and alleged encounters.

This issue of YES! Magazine, dated March 1997, presents a collection of articles focusing on paranormal phenomena, primarily ghosts and UFOs. The cover story highlights "Ghostly Goings-On In Washington, USA," detailing various reported hauntings and spectral encounters in the American capital. The magazine also features a UFO update, exploring theories about alien origins and abductions, and a special report on the 'Case For Ufology' being proven in a televised courtroom debate.

Tales From The General Public

The magazine opens with "Tales From The General Public," a section dedicated to personal accounts of unexplained encounters. Barry Atkinson recounts a chilling experience with a small, grey-clad boy at a derelict railway station in North Cornwall. Doreen Pope shares her recurring nightmares about two Chinese children. Edward Hewitt describes seeing the ghosts of a man and boy in oilskins in his hotel room in Berwick-upon-Tweed. Carole Sprenger recounts a ghostly encounter with the smell of incense in her new house, built on an old priory site. Angela Chartton tells of a mysterious cottage that vanished. Nanny Angela Hall reports hearing chanting from a tree in Kensington. Merchant sailor Terence Springthorpe describes a mist forming into a shape on a ship. The section also touches upon the belief in ghosts held by US Presidents Woodrow Wilson, Richard Nixon, Harry Truman, Ronald Reagan, and Abraham Lincoln, and mentions John Alexander's book on Washington's ghosts.

Ghostly Goings-On In Washington, USA

This section elaborates on the paranormal activity in Washington D.C. It mentions Woodrow Wilson's wife, Edith, holding seances, Richard Nixon's alleged nocturnal wanderings, and Harry Truman's feeling of being surrounded by ghosts. Ronald Reagan's hope to meet Abraham Lincoln's ghost is also noted. John Alexander, author of "Washington's Most Famous Ghost Stories," is quoted as saying that ghost stories are a dying art form, but he recounts the legend of the Capitol's 'Demon Cat.' The section also details how buildings have been altered to avoid ghosts, such as Decatur House. Lincoln's ghost is reportedly seen by notable figures like Queen Wilhelmina, Winston Churchill, and Margaret Truman. The legend of Mary Surratt's daughter pleading for her mother's life at the White House is also mentioned. The article notes the influence of 'THE EXORCIST' on the Georgetown area.

Ghost Planes Of The Desolate Moors

This article investigates reports of ghostly aircraft sightings in the Peak District, near Sheffield. A massive search for a plane crash was abandoned due to a lack of wreckage, despite villagers reporting a "stricken plane swooping silently overhead." Witnesses described a blinding flash and billowing smoke. The area, known as the 'Howden Triangle,' has a history of ghostly aircraft sightings. The article details multiple reports, including one from Tony Ingle who saw a World War Two Dakota disappear. Ron Collier, an Air Force historian, suggests a logical explanation but acknowledges the paranormal force governing the moors. The section links these sightings to historical air crashes, including a Royal Canadian Air Force Lancaster Bomber and a USAF Dakota that crashed in 1945 and 1947 respectively. The article also mentions the development of the Dambuster's Bouncing Bombs nearby.

The Phantom Monk Of St. Andrews Church

This piece reports on ghostly phenomena at St. Andrew's Church in Bebington, Merseyside. The church is said to be haunted by the spirit of a nun and, more recently, by sightings of a ghostly monk. The church was built on the site of an early Saxon church where novices were trained. Witnesses describe a grey-hooded figure gliding about 15 inches off the ground. A member of the congregation reported seeing two rows of these figures in the choir stalls. Sightings also include a monk walking down a lane and disappearing into a tunnel. The current curate, Reverend Peter Froggatt, has downplayed the reports.

One Early Morning In May

This is a personal account from an anonymous author who claims to have witnessed a ghostly figure while delivering newspapers in Merseyside. The author describes seeing a grey mist forming into a cloaked, humanoid figure that moved towards the road before vanishing. The experience left the author feeling strangely relaxed and at peace.

UFO UPDATE: ARE WE DESCENDED FROM ALIENS?

This section, featuring artwork of aliens, discusses Erich Von Daniken's renewed claims that alien races have abducted humans to prepare them for the "Return Of The Old Gods." He cites evidence that alien races have abducted humans for breeding experiments, with alleged cases involving extraction of foetuses and implantation of embryos. Dr. John Mack, a proponent of the Alien Abduction Hypothesis, is mentioned as investigating such cases. Von Daniken proposes that aliens have been conducting breeding experiments on Earth, creating mutants, and points to historical descriptions of gods and demons as evidence. He also suggests that humans are their remote ancestors and that a message is contained within our DNA.

Former Defence Minister 'Admits To Existence Of UFO's'

This article reports on former British Defence Minister Earl Frederick Howe's alleged acceptance of UFOs as 'Alien Spacecraft.' It mentions a confidential letter revealing that RAF station commanders are ordered to report UFO sightings and that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) remains "open-minded" about extraterrestrial life. The report discusses concerns raised by Martin Redmond MP about a strange object tracked by radar. The article suggests that the government may be using media to manipulate public attitudes on extraterrestrial life and that a significant UFO event may be imminent.

NASA REPORT SUSPECT, SAY UFOLOGISTS

Dedicated UFO enthusiasts are sceptical about NASA's study of a Martian meteorite, which revealed fossils resembling ancient bacteria. Ufologists, including Don Jernigan and William Jones, believe this is a government ploy to raise public awareness about potential alien invasion and to begin backing off their stance that UFOs don't exist. They suggest that astronomers have spotted city-sized asteroids under intelligent control, possibly alien spaceships. The article contrasts the government's excitement over microscopic fossils with its dismissal of over 100,000 reported UFO sightings. Walter Andrus of MUFON supports Mars exploration missions, stating that strange objects have been present for thousands of years.

UFOLOGY PROVES ITS POINT!

This special report by Malcolm Robinson details how the 'Case For Ufology' was presented and debated on Grampian Television's program 'WE ARE THE JURY.' The program featured UFO witnesses and sceptics, including Mr. Steuart Campbell. Robinson argued for the reality of UFOs based on the growing volume of well-documented cases, while Campbell presented conventional explanations. The debate involved audience participation via phone calls. The report highlights the testimony of UFO abductees Gary Wood and Colin Wright. Ultimately, the jury found the 'Case For The Reality Of The UFO Phenomenon' proven by nine votes to three, a verdict celebrated by Ufologists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ghosts, hauntings, UFO sightings, and alien abduction. The magazine consistently presents personal testimonies and anecdotal evidence, often framing them as compelling proof of paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be supportive of Ufology and the reality of ghosts, often questioning official explanations and suggesting government cover-ups. There is a clear bias towards believing the accounts presented, with sceptics often portrayed as dismissive or uninformed. The articles aim to validate the experiences of those who claim to have encountered the unexplained, encouraging readers to question conventional reality and consider the possibility of extraterrestrial or supernatural involvement in human affairs.

This document is a collection of reviews of various niche magazines, primarily focused on paranormal, UFO, cryptozoological, and Fortean topics. The reviews are presented in a format typical of a magazine's review section, offering summaries and opinions on the content of each publication.

Reviews

Northern UFO News #176

This publication is described as an excellent issue from a favorite UFO magazine. It includes features on a new 'alien body' controversy, the MoD cover-up, Men In Black, Michael Knighton's UFO encounter, major Summer events, and the latest news on Flying Triangles over Britain. It is recommended as an essential read for anyone interested in UFOs, written by a leading figure in the field. Subscriptions are available for £6 for six issues from an address in Buxton, Derbyshire.

Animals And Men #13

This magazine is highlighted as a favorite Fortean 'zine, written with factual reporting and good humor. The latest issue contains articles on Singing Oysters, The Barking Beast Of Bath, Mystery Cats In Yorkshire, Pangolins, and reports on sea serpents and lake monsters. It is described as an absolute must-read for those interested in cryptozoology. Subscriptions are £8 for four issues from The Centre For Fortean Zoology in Exeter, Devon.

Cover Up #6

This is the first encounter with this magazine, published by the Scottish Unexplained Phenomena Research group. The issue features articles on UFOs Over Livingston (site of Bob Taylor's encounter), Weird Events In Knock Forest, a critical cartoon of Scottish Ufologists, and an in-depth overview of The Falkland Hill Landing. It is praised for being well-written and put together. A sample issue costs £1.25 from an address in Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland.

Magonia #59

This magazine, which interprets Contemporary Vision And Belief, is described as a compulsive read. Edited by John Rimmer and John Harney, the issue includes a thought-provoking piece on 'Dangerous Abduction Fantasies,' which criticizes the current abduction mythos and its potential harm to gullible people. It also features a highly literate article on a related topic. The review notes that the 'Budd Hopkin's Brigade' are given a 'kick up the proverbials.' Subscriptions are not detailed, but it is edited by John Rimmer and John Harney.

The Demeter May Issue

This magazine is recommended for lovers of all things vampiric. The latest issue covers Bosnian Creatures Of The Night, Vampire Fiction, True Tales Of Terror, The Bloody Guide To The Best Vampire Films Ever Made, and the influence of the undead in rock music, including a Vampiric Crossword. It is considered a comprehensive overview of the subject. A sample copy costs £2.50 from an address in Whitby, North Yorkshire.

At The Edge #6

This publication is considered one of the best dealing with Earth Mysteries, Folklore, and Mythology. The current issue is a sex and gender special, with articles on 'Women On The Rampage,' 'Spinning In Myths And Folktales,' and cats as witches' familiars. The review suggests it's worth purchasing even if the reader isn't typically interested in the subject. Subscriptions are £9 for four issues from Wymeswold, Loughborough.

The Fortean Times

Described as the foremost publication in paranormal phenomena reporting, The Fortean Times maintains high standards. The review notes that the magazine was approaching its 100th issue. Issue 99 included a report from the Amazon Jungle about a lake monster sighting, a look at new mysteries revealed by technology, and the rise of Apocalyptic Cults in Japan potentially linked to strange lights in Australia and suppressed technology in the USA. The 'STRANGE DAYS' section and 'Forum' debates are also highlighted. Subscriptions are £30 for 12 issues from John Brown Publishing in London.

Next Issue Preview

The upcoming issue will celebrate 50 years of the UFO phenomenon, featuring a review of the top 50 UFO reports since Kenneth Arnold's encounter on June 24th, 1947. It promises a round-up of the latest news from the world of ufology.

'And Finally!!!' - The Chances Of Anything Coming From Mars....

This section discusses the NASA revelation concerning the Martian meteorite and its potential for containing traces of alien life. It reports that British scientists have found new evidence suggesting life once existed on Mars, possibly as recently as 600,000 years ago. Scientists from the Open University and the Natural History Museum are investigating clues from the first meteorite. Plans for the Mars Global Surveyor mission to photograph a mile-long, human-like visage on Mars, first captured by the Viking probe in 1976, are mentioned. Camera designer Michael Malin expressed his intention to photograph the 'face' if the spacecraft is positioned correctly. Richard Hoagland, a proponent of the Mars monuments theory, is skeptical of NASA's intentions. The section also touches upon the possibility of this being a public information exercise to prepare for a major revelation or alien invasion. The article references a piece from the Liverpool Daily Post dated November 3rd, 1996.

Other Mentions

On The Trail Of The Silver Man

David Coleman reports on the mysterious entity of Knock Forest in Scotland.

PLUS All The Regular Features

Includes news on Crying Icons, Glowing Mice, Wolf Women, A Visit From The Grim Reaper, Killer Poltergeists, The Bible Code, Modern Day Miracles, U.N Conspiracies, Icebergs From Space, and The Monster Of Lake Champlain.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these reviews are UFO phenomena, cryptozoology, paranormal events, and fringe science. The editorial stance appears to be one of enthusiastic engagement with these subjects, presenting them as worthy of serious investigation and discussion, while also maintaining a critical eye, as seen in the review of Magonia #59's critique of abduction fantasies. There is a clear appreciation for well-researched and engaging content within these specialized fields.