Dead of Night - No 16 - 1998

Magazine Overview

Title: DEAD OF NIGHT MAGAZINE
Issue: 16
Date: August/September 1998
Price: £2
Publisher: DEAD OF NIGHT MAGAZINE
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Cover Headline: PHANTOM OF THE BARRENS:
Tagline: Merseyside's Premier Publication Dealing With All Paranormal Phenomena!!!

This issue of Dead Of Night Magazine, number 16, published in August/September 1998, presents a diverse collection of articles focusing on paranormal phenomena, unexplained events, and the unusual. The cover features a striking illustration titled "PHANTOM OF THE BARRENS:" depicting a spooky, rural scene with a dilapidated house and figures, setting a tone of mystery and the supernatural.

Editorial: 'After Dark In The Playing Fields'

The editorial, penned by Lee Walker, delves into a deeply personal childhood memory from May 26th, 1977, the day after Liverpool FC won the European Cup. The author, then twelve, recounts an incident at school where he was bullied by a larger boy named Robby Robinson, who stole his prized Liverpool FC scarf. The narrative explores themes of childhood vulnerability, the impact of bullying, and the author's eventual, albeit unconventional, 'revenge' using a trick involving water and the scarf. This experience is linked to the author's later reflections on why football holds such significance for him, suggesting it represents a form of escape and a source of identity.

The editorial also touches upon the author's subsequent encounter with Robby Robinson years later, after Robinson had suffered severe head injuries in a fight. The author reflects on the complex emotions surrounding this encounter, including a lack of sympathy but an acknowledgment that no one deserves such a fate. The piece concludes with the author's contemplation on the enduring meaning of football in his life.

Contents Overview

The extensive table of contents reveals a wide range of topics covered in this issue, spanning various aspects of the paranormal and unexplained:

• Editorials and Personal Accounts: The issue begins with an editorial and includes personal reflections and anecdotes.
• UFOs and Celestial Phenomena: Several articles focus on UFO sightings and updates, including "Keep Watching The Skies!!! UFO Update: Weird Celestial Phenomena," "Earth Versus The Flying Triangles: UFO/RAF Dogfight Over Sheffield?," and "The Argentinian Blackout: UFO's To Blame For Bariloche Blackout."
• Strange Events and Phenomena: Topics range from "Sights And Shadows: New Ferry In The Dark Hours 1: Goblins, Demonology, And The Mysterious Deaths Of A Litter Of Baby Rabbits In The Heart Of Merseyside" to "Indefinable Weirdness: Anomalous Aerial Booms, Unidentified 'Gloop' Fall, Killer Noises, The Man With Three Tongues, The Creeping Flesh, Strange Diseases."
• The Supernatural and Paranormal: The issue features articles on ghosts ("The Ghosts That Haunt You With Their Sorrows"), witchcraft and demonology, and religious phenomena such as "The Holy Spud" and "The Turin Shroud."
• Weird Crime and Human Behavior: Sections like "Weird Crime: The Latest Batch Of Hopeless Burglars And Robbers" and "Strange Human Behaviour: Hoover-Lovers, Bed-Hopper's, Crazy Obsessives, And General Over-Reactor's" explore unusual criminal and psychological cases.
• Animal Kingdom Anomalies: "Strange Days In The Animal Kingdom: Animals Strike Back; Invasion Of The Starlings, March Of The Beetles, Killer Crocs, Rampaging Apes, Rail Rats" and "Animals To The Rescue: Hero Horses, Devoted Dogs And Caring Cats" delve into peculiar animal behaviors.
• Specific Case Studies: Articles like "Dark Visions: To The Ends Of The Earth: Loch Ness Special Fully Reviewed" and "Weird Winged Creatures: 1 The Legend Of The Jersey Devil" focus on well-known mysteries.
• Horror and Cinema: "The Exorcist: 25 Years Of Fear And Loathing: A Look Back At The Movie That Changed The Face Of Horror Cinema Forever" and "The Real-Life Exorcist Speaks Out: Reverend Mockford And The Casting Out Of Disembodied Spirits" explore the film and its real-world connections.

Key Incidents and Personal Accounts

The Rabbit Hutch Mystery: A significant personal account, presented in sections II, III, IV, V, and VI, details a disturbing series of events involving baby rabbits in the author's family. The narrative begins with the discovery of a dead baby rabbit in a supposedly secure hutch, followed by the deaths of several others, their heads inexplicably flattened. Despite attempts to secure the hutch and protect the remaining rabbits, the mystery deepens, leading to speculation about human involvement and a possible 'serial-killing' perpetrator. The author's father initially suspects a weasel, but the circumstances, particularly the flattened heads and the lack of forced entry, raise doubts. The incident culminates with only one surviving baby rabbit, which is then moved into the house, and the author's father questions if the mother might be responsible. The narrative highlights the family's growing fear and confusion.

The School Bully Encounter: The editorial details a traumatic childhood encounter with a schoolmate named Robby Robinson, who physically assaulted the author and stole his cherished Liverpool FC scarf. This event is presented as a formative experience that highlights the author's feelings of helplessness and his later desire for retribution, albeit a non-violent one.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained and the paranormal, from UFO sightings and alleged supernatural encounters to peculiar animal behavior and unexplained deaths. The editorial stance, as evidenced by the personal narrative, suggests a fascination with the darker, more mysterious aspects of life, often viewed through the lens of childhood memory and personal experience. There is a clear interest in local phenomena, particularly those related to Merseyside, as indicated by the cover tagline. The issue also demonstrates an engagement with popular culture, such as the film "The Exorcist" and the significance of football in British culture, using these as points of reference for understanding more profound or unsettling events.

This issue of 'Dead Of Night' magazine, dated October 10th, 1994, presents a collection of articles exploring various unexplained phenomena, from personal encounters to historical reports and cultural practices. The magazine's tone is investigative and often skeptical, while acknowledging the persistent nature of these mysteries.

Article 1: The Shed Encounter (Section VII-IX)

The issue opens with a chilling personal account from Lee Walker about his sister Kearry's experience in a shed. Kearry describes an unnerving atmosphere and a strange scraping sound. She then encounters a two-foot high, crooked creature with a wrinkled face, bulbous nose, and decayed teeth. The creature holds a powerful-looking lump hammer, darkly stained and dotted with fur and bone fragments. The author initially dismisses his sister's account as an overactive imagination and poor lighting, suggesting she saw an ordinary rat. However, he recalls the genuine horror on her face and has recurring nightmares about the incident. The article also briefly mentions other unexplained animal deaths, including a case in Binbrook Farm where 'something' killed 255 chickens in a specific manner, and incidents in Llanelly, Wales, and Alphamstone, Sussex, involving rabbits and chickens respectively. A Venezuelan man, Gustavo Gonzalez, reported an attack by a 'hairy dwarf,' and the headless corpses of seals were found in the Orkney Isles.

Article 2: Meteor Showers Blamed For Recent Spate Of UFO Sightings (Page 3-4)

This section explores the increasing number of UFO sightings and other unusual aerial phenomena, with meteor showers being a common explanation offered by authorities. On March 8th, 1998, a bright green fireball was sighted over Placerville and Sacramento, California, causing traffic to halt. A coastguard spokesman described it as 'the king of all meteor showers.' On March 15th, 1998, meteoroids called the Virginids were blamed for numerous UFO reports across Southern England, accompanied by flashes, smoke trails, and rumbling explosions. The article notes that many mistook these for distress flares or genuine UFOs. Experts attributed the dramatic sightings to the meteor shower coinciding with a full moon and clear skies. Dr. Richard Porter, a meteorologist, suggested that some objects might be space debris rather than true meteors. On March 27th, 1998, a similar mysterious explosion of bluish-white light and roaring sound was seen west of Hawaii, witnessed by dozens. A pilot for Aloha Airlines reported seeing a bright object that increased the temperature in his cabin. A witness in Hawaii described a flash of white light followed by a rumbling sound, initially thinking it was an earthquake or volcano. The U.S. Coastguard quickly dismissed a similar event on March 29th in Hawaii as a 'big meteor.'

Article 3: David Lee's Meteorite (Page 4)

David Lee, a retired insurance manager from Brighton, reported his house being shaken by a deafening crash. A 4lb lump of rock, described as black and looking like tarmac but much harder, had shattered his roof tiles. He initially thought it might be a meteorite, noting that it was too heavy to have been thrown. John Clarke, a representative of 'Quest International,' commented that such a large meteorite is unusual as they typically burn up in the atmosphere, but acknowledged the possibility of man-made space debris.

Article 4: 'Meteor Shower' Over Britain (Page 4-5)

On June 11th, 1998, numerous 'meteorite' reports came from Britain, witnessed as far north as Merseyside. Eyewitness testimony was similar to earlier 'Virginid sightings,' and video evidence was captured. A huge glowing sphere was filmed hovering over a farmer's field in broad daylight. The article contrasts this with footage of less spectacular aerial displays identified as meteorites or space debris. The author speculates about a possible cover-up to withdraw the footage of the massive, surreal-looking ovoid.

Article 5: Another 'Meteor Shower' (Page 5)

On July 10th, 1998, hundreds of witnesses reported another 'meteor shower' with flares, explosions, and darting lights. A pilot reported seeing a huge explosion over the Isle of Man. The lights were seen from Scotland to Cornwall, with the North-West of England receiving the most calls. Some reports mentioned lights taking on the appearance of recognizable letters and numbers, with one witness mentioning a 'Letter 2 in the sky.'

Article 6: Black Helicopters Whirl Into View (Page 5-6)

This section discusses sightings of 'disconcertingly sinister aircraft,' often appearing in the aftermath of UFO encounters. On March 24th, 1998, a black helicopter was seen hovering over fields in East Kilbride, Scotland. Another witness reported a large black helicopter near his window. In the USA, on February 2nd, a UFO was reportedly stalked by a mysterious, unmarked chopper over a farm in Iowa. Witnesses described a high-pitched hum and a dark-coloured helicopter with a large motor, devoid of markings, and featuring two white lights and a red light. After the chopper left, an orange ball was seen moving in the sky. On March 13th, witnesses on Bringle Ferry Road saw a black chopper hovering over an area where a triangular UFO had been spotted.

Article 7: Cattle Mutilations In Canada (Page 6)

This report details a cow found dead and mutilated on a farm in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada. The animal's tongue was missing, half its face was stripped to the bone, and a deep slash crossed its chest. The incision was described as too precise to be caused by a predator. No tracks were found in the snow. Local authorities concluded the cow died a natural death and was scavenged by predators, with no UFO involvement mentioned.

Article 8: American Survey Reveals Mass Acceptance Of ET Life (Page 6)

A study by the Marist Institute For Public Opinion revealed that most Americans readily accept the existence of intelligent life on other planets, with sixty percent replying affirmatively to the question of whether life exists on other planets. Of those who said yes, over 47 percent believed extraterrestrial life was more intelligent than humans, and 86 percent thought galactic neighbours are friendly.

Article 9: Earth Vs The Flying Triangles? (Page 6-7)

This article investigates a dramatic UFO case from March 24th, 1997, over the Peak District of Sheffield, involving a dogfight between six Tornado jets and a triangular UFO, resulting in one jet being downed. Military authorities initially denied the incident, explaining it as a fireball colliding with a small airplane. However, investigations by Dave Clarke of BUFORA, MP Helen Jackson, and 'THE SHEFFIELD STAR' newspaper forced the RAF to concede that a low-altitude training exercise had taken place. The MoD confirmed that Tornado GR1 strike aircraft were involved in a pre-planned exercise, and other NATO fighters also participated. UFO researcher Max Burns claimed the triangular object was tracked on radar. The MoD stated they had no record of chasing a UFO and denied any cover-up, admitting they did not know what caused the recorded sonic booms. A large air-and-ground search involving 200 personnel was conducted.

Article 10: Brief Ufological Snippets (Page 7-8)

• This section provides several brief reports of UFO sightings:
• Fortaleza, Brazil: Disc-shaped UFOs were reported on at least three occasions in February.
• Bermuda: A glowing UFO was sighted on March 7th, 1998, described as a 'red light travelling east' and later as two hazy lights that took off. Sightings were dismissed as a missile test.
• Leeds, UK: Anomalous objects were captured on video on February 2nd, 1998, described as two bright white lights that disappeared towards York.
• Florida, USA: A large UFO, shaped like an 'L' or boomerang, with bright white lights, was seen over Narcoosee. One witness reported that eleven chickens died inexplicably after the sighting.

Article 11: UFO's Rumoured To Be The Cause Of Argentinian City Blackout (Page 7-8)

In Bariloche, Argentina, two city-wide blackouts were preceded by sightings of up to four UFOs. The first blackout occurred on April 12th, 1998, and lasted over three hours. The second occurred on April 13th. Witnesses reported strange lights hovering above a hill, with two lights fusing together just as the power went out.

Article 12: 'Mystery Craft' Sighted Over The North Sea (Page 8)

Reports suggest the RAF tracked a UFO 'as big as a battleship' flying over the British coastline at high speed, accelerating to 24,000 mph before vanishing. The Dutch Airforce also tracked the object, but F-16 fighters could not keep pace. The object was initially spotted by a Ministry of Defence listening station. An unnamed source described it as triangular and around 900ft long. Radar records were reportedly to be presented at a conference. The article notes that other tapes of similar UFOs exist but are withheld due to revealing radar capabilities. A 'DAILY MAIL' correspondent suggested it might be a top-secret experimental aircraft.

Article 13: Making Sacrifices (Page 9-10)

This section discusses the practice of animal and bird sacrifices across different cultures and religions. It notes that while animal sacrifices are occasionally made in Britain, they are more common in some African and Indian communities. The article then delves into the complexities of Voodoo and Macumba, particularly in the New World. It explains how these religions merged with Roman Catholicism, creating 'double-religions.' In New Orleans, Haiti, and Brazil, Voodoo services often involve the killing of a goat or fowl. The term 'Voodoo' is considered derogatory by English-speaking West Indians, who prefer terms like 'Witchcraft.' The article describes a 'Voodoo' meeting house in North London and the syncretism of African Gods with Christian saints, such as St. Expedite representing Gede, the God of the Dead. It also touches upon the confusion between Voodoo and 'Black Magic.' The practice of Macumba in Brazil is described as a form of 'Voodoo' or half-African, half-Catholic religion, now fashionable and popular.

Article 14: Voodoo and Macumba in England (Page 10)

This part of the 'Making Sacrifices' article focuses on the presence of Voodoo-ish overtones in churches attended by British West Indians in England. It describes the merging of Spiritual Baptist or 'Shouter' Churches of Trinidad with Revival Zion Churches of Jamaica. These churches exhibit a spectrum of worship, united by 'Yoruba Drumming' music and white or scarlet robes. At one end, they resemble Pentecostal fellowships, while at the other, they approach Haitian Voodoo ceremonies. The author recounts searching for a 'Temple' in Shoreditch, London, and finding a building with Voodoo symbols and an empty chicken coop. He describes being welcomed into a church where Hindu Gods like Ganesh and Krishna were displayed alongside Christian imagery, explaining this as a way for Indian Gods to be worshipped in a 'separate Temple' to avoid objections from Christian purists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, UFO sightings, and alleged paranormal events. While presenting various accounts, there's an underlying tone of skepticism, often highlighting official explanations like meteor showers or military exercises. However, the publication also acknowledges the persistent nature of these mysteries and the public's fascination with them, as evidenced by the survey on belief in extraterrestrial life. The articles often rely on eyewitness testimony, local press reports, and sometimes the input of UFO organizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into the unexplained, while maintaining a critical perspective on the evidence presented.

This issue of 'Dark Visions' presents a special feature titled 'To The Ends Of The Earth: Loch Ness Special,' a review of a Channel Four documentary screened on April 27, 1998. The documentary, described as fascinating, explored the evidence for and against the existence of the Loch Ness Monster, despite offering little new information. The reviewer found the program satisfied a need for magic in an otherwise dull world.

Loch Ness Special

The documentary opens with familiar elements such as the 'Surgeon's Photograph,' Tim Dinsdale's cine film, and eyewitness accounts, alongside breathtaking visuals of Scotland. It introduces the latest scientific team to investigate Loch Ness, led by Robert Rines, a former member of the Academy Of Applied Science. Rines, a lawyer, scientist, and engineer, is passionate about the hunt for the Loch Ness Monster. He emphasizes the importance of an open mind in scientific discovery, stating that a scientist is a scientist regardless of their background or funding.

Charles Wyckoff, Rines's long-time partner and a 'photographic innovator,' shares his journey from skepticism to belief in the monster's existence. The program then delves into Rines's personal experience in 1972, where he and his wife Carol witnessed a 'big greyish hump' in Urquhart Bay, which sank beneath the water. This experience spurred Rines to assemble a team of experts.

Using sonar and underwater photography, the team captured a definite image, including the 'Flipper Photograph,' which Rines considers incontrovertible proof. Further sonar contacts and underwater pictures of a 'gargoyle-like head and neck' were obtained in subsequent years. These findings were instrumental in convincing naturalist Sir Peter Scott of Nessie's reality.

The issue highlights the media's sensationalization of the evidence, with 'THE DAILY MAIL' and other newspapers featuring headlines about the monster. A press conference for 'NATURE' MAGAZINE is depicted, where Rines asserts the need for the zoological community to analyze and debate the findings.

However, the evidence faced skepticism. Critics pointed out that the 'Flipper Photo' might have been enhanced to resemble a dorsal fin, aligning with Sir Peter Scott's theory of a surviving prehistoric reptile. Zoologists at the Natural History Museum expressed doubt, with one stating it was difficult to accept the existence of a population of large predatory reptiles in a well-explored country. Marine Biologist John Lambshead noted the negative impact of the Loch Ness phenomenon on scientific careers, likening it to a 'kiss of death.'

Bob Rines countered that zoologists, whose livelihoods depend on existing knowledge, were not ready to accept the possibility of a creature dead for 65 million years still existing. The documentary concludes with a sense of the Rines team's final attempt to solve the enigma, set against the backdrop of Loch Ness's vastness and depth.

Other News and Incidents

The magazine also includes a collection of other unusual news items:

• Animal Kingdom Mayhem: Reports detail a crocodile attack in Costa Rica, a pack of wild apes terrorizing a Japanese resort, and a ring swallowed by a swan and later recovered. There are also stories of a tortoise starting a fire, a parrot alerting rescuers to a trapped man, and a dog saving its owner from a fire. A cat is credited with saving its owner from a burning apartment, and a horse rescues its rider from drowning. A dog is also noted for its bravery in a house fire, though it tragically died. A dog named Lupo is the subject of a roadside tent erected for him, refusing to leave the spot where his owner died.
• Animal Rescues: Several heartwarming stories highlight animals aiding humans, including a parrot alerting rescuers, a dog saving children from a fire (at the cost of its own life), and a horse rescuing its rider.
• Unexplained Phenomena: Reports include mice chewing through traffic light cables causing crashes, rats blamed for train delays, and a mysterious 'booming' sound heard in the Ozarks, USA, and Mobile, Alabama, USA, which meteorologists and the USGS could not explain.
• Scientific Discoveries: The discovery of feathered dinosaurs (Sinosauropteryx) in China, believed to have had feathers for insulation rather than flight, is detailed. A rare disease affecting farm animals in Ireland, baffling scientists, is also reported.
• Unusual Events: A story about a woman's mobile phone being swallowed by her dog and later recovered is featured. Another report discusses whales and dolphins being driven to death by underwater noise pollution. An unexplained 'weird brown, wax-like substance' fell on a home in Pennsylvania, USA, baffling authorities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue leans towards the unusual, the unexplained, and the bizarre, with a focus on cryptozoology (Loch Ness Monster), animal heroism, and unexplained natural phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these stories as intriguing curiosities, often with a touch of sensationalism, but also acknowledging scientific skepticism and seeking explanations. The inclusion of various newspaper clippings from different sources suggests an effort to compile a diverse range of oddities from around the world.

This issue of 'The Ghosts That Haunt You With Their Sorrows,' part of the 'Constant Reader' series, delves into several unexplained phenomena, focusing on the Loch Ness Monster, the Jersey Devil, and hauntings at Peterhouse College. The magazine presents a retrospective overview of these topics, drawing on historical accounts, eyewitness testimonies, and recent investigations.

The Loch Ness Monster: Rines' Expedition

The issue details the efforts of Rob Rines and his team in their search for the Loch Ness Monster. Aboard a chartered boat equipped with advanced technology, including a GPS-linked sonar system, the team aims to pinpoint anomalous objects. Oceanographer John Fish and marine biologist Arnie Carr are introduced as part of the expedition. The challenges of underwater photography in Loch Ness are highlighted, with Charlie explaining a method to overcome the murky conditions using a rig with a low-light video camera and a car headlight. The article notes the presence of Adrian Shine, a skeptic who questions the sightings, attributing them to 'Nessie's' or misperceptions. Despite Shine's skepticism, the Rines team proceeds with their search. The sonar system is designed to track objects with greater precision than previous methods like 'Depscan.'

Several sonar contacts with apparently animate objects, some around 15ft in length, have been reported over the years, including during the 'Operation Deepscar' expedition. Experts like Bjorn Larsen from 'Simrad' admit to tracking large, moving underwater targets for several minutes but express difficulty in identifying them. The article also touches upon the 'Loch Ness Hoodoo,' a series of mishaps that have plagued filmmakers and researchers, such as Charlie Wyckoff's film being ruined by moisture.

The Rines team's search, lasting five days, focuses on Urquhart Bay. They encounter large targets on sonar, with Arnie Carr estimating one to be over 16ft long. However, attempts to capture live video footage are unsuccessful. The limitations of the equipment are acknowledged, but Rob Rines remains optimistic, hoping to intrigue a new generation of researchers.

The issue also provides a potted history of Loch Ness sightings dating back to 1933, including the MacKay sighting and the 'INVERNESS COURIER' headline. It discusses the debunking of the 'Surgeon's Photograph' by Alistair Boyd and Christian Spurling's confession of a hoax involving a model dinosaur head. However, doubts about the hoax story are raised, particularly regarding a second picture by Wilson showing the creature diving.

Richard Smith, a journalist, attempts to recreate the 'Surgeon's Photograph' using models, concluding that the original testimony might be genuine. Alistair Boyd and Adrian Shine also attempt to recreate the photo with a one-foot model, producing images similar to the original. The article questions the omission of the second Wilson photograph.

Alistair Boyd recounts his own sighting of a large animal emerging from the water, estimating its visible portion to be at least 20 feet long.

The ecological aspect of Loch Ness is explored, with Adrian Shine and Alan Butterworth noting the lack of chemical nutrients and light penetration, making it unproductive. The limited plankton and fish population are discussed, with salmon being the primary food source, estimated at only 15 tons passing through annually.

Adrian Shine's theory that 'Nessie' might be a sturgeon is presented, while eels are also considered. However, witnesses remain adamant that they are not seeing such identifiable creatures.

Ian Cameron recounts seeing a creature with a back resembling an elephant's, estimating its visible part to be 20 feet long, and states he would not go out in a small boat on Loch Ness again.

Weird Winged Creatures

This section begins a series on anomalous entities, starting with descriptions of various winged creatures. It mentions a feathered serpent with a wingspan the size of a Piper airplane, a headless entity with glowing red eyes, and a 'bat-woman.' The article then details several historical accounts of winged beings:

• 1947: Farmers in Ramore, Ontario, Canada, reported a giant black bird with a huge, hooked beak and yellow eyes the size of silver dollars that plagued their livestock.
• 1953 (June 18th): A group of people in Houston, Texas, saw a figure of a man with wings like a bat.
• 1966 (November): Witnesses in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, encountered a seven-foot-tall winged creature with glowing red eyes that followed their car at 100 mph.
• 1976 (early): Two young girls from Harlingen, Texas, claimed to have seen a "five-foot tall bird with a gorilla's face and a sharp beak, six inches long," leaving three-toed tracks.

The Jersey Devil

This extensive section chronicles the legend of the Jersey Devil, primarily associated with the Pine Barrens of Southern New Jersey. The area is described as lonely and eerie, historically inhabited by the Lenni Lenape who were aware of its presence.

Origins and Early Accounts:

The legend's origins are obscure. Native Americans believed the woods were the domain of ethereal, shape-shifting creatures. The arrival of white settlers brought new legends. A prominent story involves a Mrs. Leeds, a mother of twelve who, pregnant again, allegedly cursed her unborn child, wishing it to be a devil. The child was born monstrous, escaped, and was rumored to have fed on small animals and children.

Other variations attribute the creature's malformation to Mrs. Leeds offending a clergyman, a gypsy, or being a witch. Another theory suggests the father was a British soldier, and the child was a curse for treason. Local lore states the area was exorcised in 1740, but the demon returned a hundred years later in 1840 as a 'phantom livestock killer.'

Documented Sightings and Incidents:

• 1859, 1873, 1880: Reported sightings of the Jersey Devil.
• 1894-95 (Winter): Mysterious 'unidentifiable' footprints were found in the snow across the Barrens.
• 1855 (February 8th): Similar 'Devil's Footprints' appeared overnight in South Devon, England.
• 1899: A local Philadelphia journal published an account of George Saarosy being awakened by loud yelps and glimpsing the Jersey Devil flying past his house.
• 1909 (January 16th-23rd): This week became known as 'the time of the Jersey Devil.'
• January 16th: Zack Cozzens encountered a creature near Woodbury, New Jersey, described as having two spots of phosphorus for eyes, moving very fast.
• January 17th (early hours): E.W. Minster in Bristol, Pennsylvania, saw a creature resembling a crane with a glow, a ram's head, curled horns, and wings.
• January 19th: Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Evans in Gloucester City, New Jersey, reported a creature with a Collie dog's head, a horse-like face, wings, and horse's hooves.
• 1924 (July 2nd): A creature with a deer-like head, rabbit-like running, and fiery eyes was seen in West Orange, New Jersey.
• 1926: A 'large, speedy, feathered animal' was sighted.
• 1927: An anonymous cab-driver reported seeing a similar creature.
• 1928, 1930: Accounts of a 'half-man, half-beast' and a creature with a man's body, cow's head, bat wings, and large feet were reported.
• 1932, 1935: 'An upright Devil' was spotted.
• 1941, 1948: Isolated incidents involving the entity.
• 1949: A 'green male monster' was sighted.
• 1951: A substantial sequence of sightings, including a ten-year-old boy seeing a monster with blood dripping from its face. This period also saw the formation of 'Devil-hunting' vigilante groups.
• 1966: Steven Silkotch blamed the death of his poultry on the Devil, noting that his two German Shepherds were torn to shreds.

Hoaxes and Skepticism:

The Philadelphia Zoo offered $10,000 for the capture of the Jersey Devil, leading to a prank where a kangaroo was painted and adorned with fake claws and wings. The 'Philadelphia Record' published a detailed account by Theodore D. Hackett, a telephone linesman, describing a creature with a horse's head, bat wings, and a rat-like tail. However, some sections of the press and authorities dismissed the phenomenon as misperception, mass hysteria, or outright hoaxing.

Later Accounts and Legacy:

Despite police and press dismissal after 1951, the legend endured. Joe Springer notes that locals still talk about it, recounting an ambulance driver's sighting in 1974. Reports continue to appear in less reliable publications like 'THE NATIONAL ENQUIRER.' The article notes that more conservative press outlets, along with authorities, now class the Jersey Devil alongside other cryptids like Bigfoot and Ogopogo. The article concludes by suggesting that while hoaxes and misperceptions exist, the possibility of something decidedly unnatural roaming the Pine Barrens cannot be entirely dismissed. The legend lives on, even inspiring an episode of 'THE X-FILES.'

Ghostly Tales From Unlikely Sources: The Haunting Of Peterhouse College

This section reports on alleged ghostly phenomena at Peterhouse College, Cambridge's oldest college. Newspaper accounts describe staff members experiencing unexplained events.

Key Incidents:

• Butler's Sighting: Two butlers, while clearing the Combination Room after dinner, witnessed a figure emerge from the panelling and move diagonally across the room towards the William Morris fireplace, disappearing into it.
• Andrew Murison's Experience: The current bursar, Andrew Murison, claims to have felt an otherworldly presence a few months later. While in the Combination Room around 1:45 pm to get fruit, he felt an extreme cold, thought the heating might be off, and then heard water pipes knocking. He felt a definite presence and fled.

Possible Identities:

The reporters considered potential identities for the ghost, including Frances Dawes, a former bursar who hanged himself in 1787, or another former bursar who was the great-uncle of George Washington.

The 'SHOUT' Magazine Connection:

The article notes that 'SHOUT' magazine, despite not typically being a paranormal publication, has provided fascinating accounts. The success of shows like 'THE X-FILES' is credited with bringing such stories to light.

Personal Accounts of the Paranormal

This section features personal anecdotes submitted by readers:

• Leanne (14-year-old): Leanne recounts a frightening experience with a Ouija board at her cousin Trisha's house. The board spelled out 'YES,' then Leanne's name, followed by 'CRASH' and 'DEAD.' Later, a message scrawled by an unseen force on a notepad read, "BE CAREFUL, LEANNE." She is now afraid of cars and buses and lives in constant fear of death.
• Sarah (Newquay): Sarah shares the story of her friend Lucy, who had an Australian penpal. The penpal bore a striking resemblance to Sarah's childhood friend Carrie, who had died in a road accident. The penpal also shared similar hobbies and pets.
• Katriona (Inverness, Scotland): Katriona describes her grandparents' haunted house. They are often woken by footsteps, and a 'screaming face' is visible in the stonework outside the kitchen door.
• Judy (Newcastle): Judy experienced what she believes to be Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) on a compilation tape of her favorite songs. While playing the tape in a cottage in Cornwall, she heard a horrible screaming and scary laughing, which disappeared when the tape was replayed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring nature of legends and eyewitness accounts of the unexplained, whether they be cryptids like the Loch Ness Monster and the Jersey Devil, or supernatural phenomena like hauntings and paranormal experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these accounts with a degree of journalistic curiosity, acknowledging both the believers and the skeptics. While the magazine highlights the lack of definitive proof for many of these phenomena, it also emphasizes the compelling nature of the testimonies and the persistent human fascination with the unknown. The inclusion of personal accounts and historical research suggests an openness to exploring these topics, even if they are often dismissed by mainstream science or authority.

Title: GHOSTS AND DEVILS OVER MERSEYSIDE

Issue: 15

Date: 12th March, 1998

Publisher: THE WIRRAL NEWS

Country: United Kingdom

Language: English

This issue of 'Ghosts and Devils Over Merseyside' delves into a variety of paranormal phenomena, focusing on local sightings and broader cultural beliefs.

Frankby Phantom and West Kirby Weirdness

The issue revisits the 'Frankby Phantom,' a reported entity in Merseyside described in various forms, including a tall, dark figure, a lady in crinoline, and a white, floating figure. Ken Wilkinson, an ex-resident, recounts an experience from the 1960s where he and a friend saw a man in a white coat floating off the ground on Montgomery Hill. The phenomenon was described as life-like and unsettling.

Shifting to West Kirby, the magazine details 'West Kirby Weirdness,' with accounts of a haunted plot of land. Jo Wood reported her daughter seeing a strange man in 'funny clothes' pointing at her and then at the ground. The figure was later depicted in a drawing as a cavalier with a jet black hat and boots, a drawing that impressed Jo due to her daughter's lack of historical knowledge.

Another West Kirby encounter involves Gary Sherratt, who reported hearing a high-pitched wail near a roundabout, his bike light inexplicably fading, and experiencing a 'strong presence.' He also noted his bike speeding up against his will and then returning to normal as he moved away from the roundabout, suggesting the construction of the roundabout might have triggered a 'psychic phenomenon.'

The Invisible Clothes Ripper

This section highlights a brief account from the 'MAIL ON SUNDAY' where Karen Hughes sought advice regarding 'unexplainable events' in her house. The reported phenomena included inexplicable scratches and dents appearing on her boyfriend's antique furniture, with the boyfriend blaming Karen.

Spring-Heeled Jack and Haunted Sepulchres

An article titled 'The Return Of Spring-Heeled Jack?' explores a possible modern manifestation of the legendary figure. Cheryl McDonald from Liverpool reported seeing a 'ghostly caped figure' on Rodney Street, described as a blurred shadow in a cloak that vanished. Later, she and her boyfriend witnessed the door to a pyramid-shaped sepulchre open, which they knew to be impossible as it was sealed. This experience led them to avoid walking up Rodney Street after dark.

Local author and 'ghost-hunter' Tom Slemen offers an alternative theory, suggesting the apparition might be the spirit of James Mackenzie, a poker fanatic buried in a pyramid-shaped tomb, who wished to be interred holding a winning hand for eternity.

The Legend Of (Not-So-Sleepy) Hollow Lane

This story details the alleged haunting of an 18th-century cottage in the Derbyshire Dales. Andrew and Josie Smith purchased the cottage for £44,000 and endured 'four years of Hell,' experiencing 'evilsmells' and 'apparitions of a young boy and a girl.' The cottage was exorcised five times without success, and water reportedly seeped from the walls. The couple is suing the previous owners for failing to disclose the haunting.

The Smiths claim the previous occupants, sisters Susan Melbourne and Sandra Mellors, did not warn them about the haunting. The case is noted for being the first instance where the supernatural might be given legal credence in English law. Martin Stote, a reporter, described experiencing a door opening and closing by itself during a visit.

Susan Melbourne denies the claims, stating she lived there for twenty years without seeing any ghosts and that the Smiths are using this as an excuse to avoid paying for repairs.

Other Hauntings and Paranormal Accounts

Leah Livingstone and her boyfriend Mark were reportedly driven from their home in Kirkaldy, Fife, by 'otherworldly entities.' They experienced unexplained noises like ringing bells and rolling sounds, and items like money, teabags, and nail clippers vanished from their flat. Leah developed a fear of being left alone but found a new perspective on death, believing in an afterlife.

The Missouri Spooklights

The 'Spooklights' in Missouri, USA, are discussed, described as mysterious lights that appear on certain nights, illuminating farmland and roads. Suzanne J. Wilson, a local writer, notes it's a legend people have sought for years. Noel Grisham is skeptical, suggesting it could be a flashlight, but acknowledges the local pride in the phenomenon. Physics professor John W. Northrip suggests the lights are caused by rising heat from surrounding hills carrying light from a nearby highway.

The Exorcist: 25 Years Of Fear And Loathing

This extensive section commemorates the 25th anniversary of the film 'The Exorcist.' It recounts the film's release in 1973, the intense public reaction, and the widespread belief that viewing the film could be hazardous, leading to reports of fainting, vomiting, heart attacks, and miscarriages. The article mentions cases of criminal and suicidal behavior attributed to the film's influence, including the death of Rainer Hertrampf in West Germany and the murder of Sandra Simpson by Nicholas Bell in England, who claimed the film possessed him.

It details the alleged supernatural phenomena during the film's production, such as a fire at the studio, an unusually high number of deaths among cast and crew, and mysterious illnesses. The article also touches upon alleged subliminal images in the film and the debate over their existence. William Peter Blatty, the author, believed evil forces were plaguing the set, while Max Von Sydow suggested that long production schedules naturally lead to incidents.

The section also explores Blatty's inspiration for the novel, the real-life exorcism of Douglass Deen in 1949, which involved scratching noises, poltergeist activity, and a lengthy exorcism ritual performed by a Jesuit priest. Blatty's experiments with Electronic Voice Phenomena (EVP) are also mentioned, where he recorded voices on tape that he believed were from the afterlife.

The 'Real-Life' Exorcist Speaks Out

Reverend Mockford, who attempted to exorcise 'Lowes Cottage,' shares his belief in ghosts and the paranormal, stating that his scientific and theological training led him to this conclusion. He describes himself as a 'Ghostbuster' and discusses his involvement in hauntings and paranormal disturbances, categorizing them into psychic phenomena (poltergeists) and truly paranormal events (apparitions). He notes that trauma can linger in buildings and cause subsequent disturbances, and that prayer and blessings are used to cleanse them, with a high success rate.

Witchcraft And Demonology In The World Today

The final section discusses the prevalence of witchcraft beliefs in Ghana, particularly in the region of Gambaga. It recounts the case of a woman named Banga, accused of killing her nephew through magic. The article highlights the 'Witch-Villages' where accused individuals live in poverty and isolation. It draws parallels to European witch hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries, noting that the accused are often elderly women and that accusations can stem from jealousy.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the enduring fascination with the paranormal, the blurring lines between science and superstition, and the psychological impact of supernatural phenomena, particularly as exemplified by 'The Exorcist.' The magazine presents a range of anecdotal evidence, personal testimonies, and historical accounts, often framing them as genuine mysteries that defy simple rational explanation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-mindedness towards the paranormal, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional understanding, while also acknowledging the potential dangers and the need for rational investigation where possible. The inclusion of a scientist's perspective and a clergyman's experience as a 'Ghostbuster' suggests an attempt to bridge different viewpoints on the subject.

This issue of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, dated January 5, 1998, presents a collection of unusual, often disturbing, and sometimes bizarre stories from around the world. The magazine covers a wide array of topics, from criminal acts and supernatural beliefs to scientific debates and peculiar coincidences.

Satanic Killing Crusade in Missouri

The issue leads with a report on two teenagers, Grant Boyette and Justin Sledge, charged in connection with a high school shooting plot as part of a 'Satanic' killing crusade. Luke Woodham, a member of the group 'THE KROTH,' was charged with stabbing his mother to death and then carrying out a school shooting. Investigator Greg Eklund testified that Woodham's former girlfriend, Christina Menefee, was also targeted.

Racial Discrimination Case in Minneapolis

Yer Vang, a Hmong woman, took her former employer, Caterair International Corp, to court for racial discrimination. While a jury rejected most of her claims, they did rule that a supervisor had assaulted her in 1996, awarding her $1,107. Vang expressed her desire for divine justice, with her interpreter stating that those who were dishonest or discriminated against her would face death within three years.

Witch Villages in Ghana

The magazine highlights the 'Witch Villages' in Gambaga, Ghana, where women accused of sorcery are sent for protection. Chief Yahaya Wune presides over Gambaga, a community of mud-and-thatch huts. These villages, though offering sanctuary, are criticized by government officials and human rights activists as inhumane prisons. However, in a country where witchcraft accusations can lead to death, these villages are seen as a necessary haven.

The Grim Reaper and the Supernatural

Mark Chorvinsky, editor of STRANGE MAGAZINE, has compiled over a hundred reports on the personification of death as the Grim Reaper. The article discusses various cultural representations of this entity, from the Angel of Death in Hebrew lore to Azrael in Mohammedan lore. The Grim Reaper is described as a figure that appears at the point of death, sometimes helping, sometimes as a demon.

The Turin Shroud Debate

The authenticity of the Turin Shroud is explored, with new claims from Swiss archaeologist Maria Grazia Siliato suggesting the words 'Jesus Nazereth' are written on the cloth. Scientists from the USA claim to have isolated human DNA from the Shroud, challenging the 1988 Carbon-14 dating results. The article also touches upon the ridiculous claim of cloning Christ from the DNA and the discovery of a coin dating from Tiberius' reign near the imprinted face.

Visions of the Virgin Mary

Nancy Fowler, who claims to receive visions from the Virgin Mary, announced that her 1998 message might be her final public one. Her messages, which began in 1990, attract thousands of believers.

Creationism and Science

Dean Overman, a member of Mensa, argues in his book 'Religion And Science' that mathematical equations and discoveries in microbiology and physics prove the existence of a 'creator.' He contends that the odds of life evolving by random chance are infinitesimally small, suggesting a built-in order and intelligence behind the universe. Other scholars like Michael Behe and Patrick Glynn also support the idea of intelligent design.

'The Holy Spud' and Other Curiosities

The issue includes a story about Linda Coles finding a crucifix in a potato, dubbed 'The Holy Spud.' It also features a study on the effectiveness of prayer for AIDS patients in Clearwater Beach, Florida, which reported positive health outcomes for those prayed for.

Weird Crime Stories

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to 'Weird Crime' stories, detailing bizarre incidents from around the globe. These include:

• Would-be burglars in Buffalo, New York, who got trapped in a flooded basement.
• A bank robber in Raleigh, North Carolina, abandoned by getaway drivers engaged in sex.
• An attempted robbery in Toutourac, France, where the robber used a garden strimmer.
• A minister's son and accomplices arrested during a prayer meeting before a jewelry store robbery in Des Moines, Iowa.
• Kurt Littlewood jailed for robbing a petrol station with a vacuum cleaner suction tube.
• A gang of four bank robbers in Utah caught after throwing money in the air.
• A gang of three in Montpellier, France, stealing handbags using pogo sticks.
• Teenagers in Dalton, near Huddersfield, stealing a bag of dog shit.
• A man in Mesa, Arizona, pelting a police officer with doughnuts.
• A federal marshal in Kansas shooting a teenager after mistaking a candy bar wrapper for a handgun.
• A defendant in Hartford, Connecticut, found with a cannabis cigarette used as a marker in his Bible.
• A man in Tinton Falls, New Jersey, arrested for climbing into strangers' beds.
• A man in Paris who fell to his death after his wife threatened to jump if he didn't let her watch a football match.
• A man in Cardiff, Wales, who received a probation order for obsessively cleaning and harassing neighbors.
• Fred Finnegan in Long Branch, New Jersey, who suffered a severe injury after inserting his penis into a vacuum cleaner.
• A tribal war in Yemen sparked by an argument over a chainsaw, resulting in fatalities.

Cosmic Jokes and Strange Deaths

The magazine also includes a section on 'Cosmic Jokes,' featuring a 'Titanic' themed dinner night cancelled due to a fire on the anniversary of the ship's sinking. Another story details a pub fire in Suffolk that occurred on the same day the 'Titanic' sank.

'Strange Deaths' reports on Roy Barret, who dislocated his knee after slipping on a mushroom and later died of heart failure. It also covers a group of treasure hunters in Manila who were killed when a World War II bomb they were trying to open exploded.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the prevalence of crime, the human fascination with the supernatural and the unexplained, and the often bizarre nature of human behavior. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these unusual events with a degree of sensationalism and dark humor, particularly in the 'Weird Crime' sections. There is a clear interest in the fringes of belief, from Satanism and witchcraft to scientific arguments for creationism and the mysteries of relics like the Turin Shroud.

Title: Fortean Times
Issue: 113
Date: October 1998
Publisher: John Brown Publishing
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £3.50

This issue of Fortean Times delves into a variety of unusual and unexplained phenomena, with a strong focus on bizarre deaths and peculiar events.

Darwin Awards: Wanna-Be's

The magazine features a prominent section dedicated to the 'Darwin Award Candidates for 1998,' curated by Ray Nelke. This section highlights individuals who have met untimely ends in exceptionally creative or foolish ways, effectively removing themselves from the gene pool. Among the nominees are:

• Daniel Jones (21) from Buxton, North Carolina, who died when an eight-foot-deep hole he dug on the beach collapsed on him while he sat in a beach chair.
• Daniel Kolta (27) and Randy Taylor (33) from Windsor, Ontario, Canada, who died in a head-on collision while playing chicken on snowmobiles.
• A 46-year-old stockbroker who 'totally zoned when he ran' and accidentally jogged off a 200-foot-high cliff.
• A 41-year-old man from Detroit who drowned in two feet of water after squeezing headfirst through a sewer grate to retrieve his car keys.
• A seven-year-old boy who fell off a 100-foot-high bluff near Ozark, Arkansas, after losing his grip on a swing.
• Jason Heck from Guthrie, Oklahoma, who accidentally shot his friend Antonio Martinez in the head with a ricocheting .22 caliber rifle while trying to kill a millipede.
• Matthew Hubal, who died after sliding down a ski run on a DIY 'sledge' made from yellow foam, crashing into a lift tower.
• Felipe Ortiz, an angler, who died in a way uncannily similar to a fish when he somehow managed to hook himself in the mouth and choke to death.
• A couple, Geno and Clandia Favio, who were electrocuted during love-making after the husband touched an exposed wire.
• Santiago Alvarado (24), who died in Lompoc, California, after slipping face-first through the ceiling of a bicycle shop while burgling, with a flashlight he held in his mouth jamming against the base of his skull.
• Sylvester Briddel, Jr (26), who died in Selbyville, Delaware, after winning a bet with friends.
• Paul Stiller (47), who was hospitalized and his wife Bonnie injured, by a quarter-stick of dynamite that blew up their car when they tried to toss it out of a closed window.

Against All Odds

This section presents a series of peculiar incidents:

• Hiro Yukimora spent six days with his hand stuck in a vending machine after attempting to break into a Tokyo school during vacation.
• A 25-year-old Argentinian died after leaping from an eighth-floor window in a bizarre attempt to murder his wife, who had become enmeshed in electricity power cables as she fell.
• Ernie Carey's three daughters defied astronomical odds (calculated as 1-in-50-million by his students) by giving birth on the same day, delivering two boys and a girl.
• Elrod Hill (47), who committed suicide with an AK-47, accidentally killed his friend Brian Olesky (46), who was sitting next to him on a sofa.
• Robert Jowle, an Alcoholics Anonymous member, was caught nearly three times over the drink-drive limit after becoming addicted to mouthwash containing 26-27% alcohol.
• Three Afghan men convicted of sodomy had their sentences commuted after escaping 'summary justice' when a tank knocked down a wall they were tied beneath.
• Harold 'Mel' Dittmer, an $8 million lottery winner, drowned trying to reach his mother's house through raging floodwater in Henderson, Nevada.
• Jim Buck won a luxury short break in a competition for the film 'THE FULL MONTY,' only to discover the destination was Sheffield, where he had lived all his life.
• Roger Baker faced assault charges after punching a hooker his friends had booked for his stag night in Phoenix, Arizona, who turned out to be his fiancée.
• Charlie Hunt's new motorcycle broke down, and he discovered it had simply run out of petrol.
• The 'Loser's Rights Union' in Norway, founded to help disadvantaged people, was in danger of failure due to lack of funds.
• Police persuaded Dan Deblasco (50) not to kill himself by refusing to return his false teeth.

Stop Press: Drop Dead Curious

This article details the unexplained death of Susan Laws (27) in Teeside, who collapsed suddenly in front of her husband. Despite extensive tests by the National Heart and Lung Institute, the cause of death remained unascertainable, with doctors noting that such occurrences, while rare, are not fully understood.

Invasion of the Snails

The cold, damp, and depressing summer of 1998 led to a vast increase in snails and slugs across Britain. Garden centres reported unprecedented demand for pest pellets, and rarer varieties of snails, like the edible Roman Snail, were spotted in record numbers. A spokesman from the Natural History Museum noted an abundance of Roman Snails in London.

The Curse Of The Edinburgh Warlock

This piece recounts the dark legend of Thomas Weir of Edinburgh. Reputedly born in 1599, Weir and his sister Grizel were accused of making a pact with the Devil, engaging in human and animal sacrifice, and incest. Thomas was burnt at the stake in 1670, while Grizel was hanged. The article details alleged hauntings and strange phenomena associated with their former home in West Bow, including sightings of apparitions and demonic activity.

UFO's And The Paranormal: M.A.R.A Conference

An advertisement for the M.A.R.A. Conference, scheduled for Saturday, October 31st, 1998, in Liverpool. The conference featured speakers such as Kevin McClure on 'Nazi UFO's, Secrets Or Lies?', Jenny Randles on 'Spontaneous Human Combustion,' Nick Redfern on 'UFO's And Official Government Documents,' and Dr. Carl Williams on 'Examining The Paranormal.' Topics also included UFOs over Merseyside and hauntings in Merseyside.

And Now, A Right Pair Of Headcases!!!

• A psychic named Janet Geel (44) had her £1.6 million damages case for losing her powers after a plank of wood fell on her head thrown out of court.
• A snorkeller named Sergio Manti was jailed for three days in Venice for swimming amongst gondolas with a rubber fin strapped to his back, terrifying tourists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the fringes of human experience, focusing on the bizarre, the unexplained, and the often darkly humorous aspects of life and death. The 'Darwin Awards' section, in particular, adopts a tone that is both morbidly fascinated and satirical, highlighting the self-destructive tendencies of some individuals. The publication also shows a clear interest in paranormal phenomena, UFOs, and historical mysteries, as evidenced by the M.A.R.A. Conference announcement and the detailed account of the Edinburgh Warlock. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting unusual events and stories without explicit judgment, allowing the reader to draw their own conclusions, while often employing a dry, witty, and sometimes sensationalist narrative style.