El Ojo Critico - No 36 - Verano 2002

Magazine Overview

Title: EL OJO CRITICO
Issue: 36
Date: Summer 2002
Publisher: GRUPO FÉNIX
Country: SPAIN

This issue of EL OJO CRITICO, a Spanish-language investigative magazine, delves into the mysterious world of cryptids and paranormal phenomena. The cover prominently features "Mothman and other impossible creatures: The inhabitants of our nightmares," signaling the issue's focus on legendary beings and unexplained encounters.

The Inhabitants of Our Nightmares: Bigfoot and Other Creatures

The lead article explores various cryptid sightings, primarily focusing on Bigfoot (also known as 'Pie Grande'). It references Douglas Hill and Pat Williams' book 'The Supernatural' and highlights investigator Joan Jeffers' account of a painting depicting a red-eyed, monstrous being. The article notes that while most Bigfoot sightings occur in the northwestern United States, some researchers believe creatures appearing elsewhere in the country have a more paranormal origin.

A detailed account is given of a 1995 incident in Salamanca, New York, where three hunters, Muhammed Dubashi, Greg Eisenmann, and Matt Curcione, encountered a large, bipedal, hairy creature that attacked their vehicle. The article also touches upon the Séneca tribe's beliefs, which include 'Bigfoot'-like beings.

Further accounts include a 1869 report from Gallipolis, Ohio, about a wild, hairy man attacking a father and daughter, and a 1980 incident in Logan County, Ohio, where police officer Ray Quay reported seeing a tall, hairy creature emitting a strong, unpleasant odor described as 'limburger cheese spilled on a hot shock absorber.'

Investigator Ron Schaffner's research is cited, including a 1994 encounter by Ryan Lehman in Nelsonville, Ohio, who described a creature running on two legs with monkey-like cries. Lehman also recounted an incident where a 'thing' lifted a tent with three occupants.

The article discusses the 'Grassman' or 'man of grass' found in Ohio, described as identical to Bigfoot, and mentions 'parasymios' that are supposedly bulletproof, suggesting a dual physical and para-physical nature.

Mothman: The 'Moth Man'

The magazine dedicates a significant section to the Mothman, a winged humanoid creature. It describes Mothman sightings dating back to the 1960s in West Virginia. A key incident involves Newell Partridge in 1966, who experienced TV interference and saw a creature with large red eyes near his barn.

More than a hundred people in the Ohio River Valley reported sightings of Mothman and related UFO activity between 1966 and 1967. The article details encounters near the 'TNT area' in West Virginia, where witnesses described a large grey figure with glowing red eyes. Investigators John Keel and Gray Barker are mentioned for their work on Mothman, noting a decrease in Mothman sightings coinciding with an increase in UFO and poltergeist activity.

Linda Scarberry recounts being stalked by the Mothman for over two years. The article also mentions a 1974 sighting in Elma, New York, by Mr. Miller, and a 1994 encounter by Brian Canfield near Mount Rainier, Washington, who described a creature dubbed 'Batsquatch' due to its bat-like wings and Sasquatch-like features.

Bighead ('Big Head') and Other Anomalies

The issue introduces 'Bighead,' a creature that caused panic in Ohio in 1978. Eugene Kline and Ken O'Neil reported seeing a creature over two meters tall with a disproportionately large head, glowing red eyes, and no visible hands or feet. The creature emitted strange growls. Bighead sightings continued, with one occurring near a car full of passengers and another at the Kline family farm.

Investigator Ron Schaffner noted the disappearance of local wildlife around the Kline farm during Bighead's appearances, suggesting an anomalous presence. He also drew parallels between Bighead and Mothman, noting similar glowing red eyes, sounds, lack of limbs, and height.

Recent cases include a 1990 encounter in Maryland by Dave Ramsey with a 'gorilla-like' creature that pursued his car. Another incident in 1973 involved a witness named 'John B.' who saw a large, white, wingless creature with thick, woolly hair floating beside his car.

Stan Gordon is cited for a 1995 event in Pennsylvania where a family reported hearing screams from a Bigfoot-like creature. A 1996 radio call from Rena in Spokane, Washington, described seeing a large, bird-like creature with powerful wings crossing the sky.

Conclusion and Theories

The magazine concludes by exploring theories about these phenomena. Ufologists suggest that Bigfoot and Mothman might be extraterrestrial beings deployed by UFO occupants for unknown missions. Paranormal investigators propose an interdimensional origin, with beings entering our reality accidentally or intentionally. Other theories include ritual magic, temporary energy manifestations, or projections of the collective unconscious. John Keel's ideas about 'elementals' or 'angels and demons' are also mentioned.

Interview with Raúl Núñez

The issue features an interview with Raúl Núñez, an investigator and author of 'Dentro del Laberinto.' Núñez discusses his preference for publishing in independent bulletins and websites over large commercial magazines, citing a desire for freedom and independence in his work. He emphasizes honesty and a non-sensationalist approach to paranormal topics.

Núñez expresses his comfort and integration within the Spanish investigative community, despite being Chilean. He acknowledges the influence of Spanish investigators on Latin America and stresses the responsibility that comes with writing about such topics. He differentiates between reporting and investigating, expressing concern about a trend towards superficiality in new investigators who rely on technology rather than deep fieldwork.

He describes his favorite mystery as 'Friendship,' a complex case involving sects, Nazis, financial conspiracies, and extraterrestrials, which he considers a personal school of learning.

Núñez also reflects on the role of women in paranormal investigation, praising their sensitivity and strength. He believes paranormal phenomena exist but are not as widespread as often claimed, anticipating future scientific explanations. He touches upon the concept of 'Friendship' and his personal journey into investigating the paranormal, linking it to his traumatic birth experience and his mother's resilience.

Ashashins: The 'Wrath of Allah'

This section details the history of the Ashashins, an ancient Islamic sect known for its brutal terrorism, predating modern Islamic extremism. The article explains that the sect, founded by Hassán Ibn Sabah in the 11th century, was a secret political and religious order aiming to spread Ismaili beliefs. Their fortress was Alamut, and their members were fanatically devoted, willing to face death for their ideals.

The term 'assassin' is linked to this sect, and the article notes how the word evolved to mean a hired killer. It describes the methods used by the 'Old Man of the Mountain' to indoctrinate his followers, creating a paradise-like environment in Alamut, which included the use of hashish.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, cryptids, and paranormal events, presenting eyewitness accounts and investigator theories. There's a clear emphasis on detailed reporting and a critical, investigative approach, as suggested by the magazine's title, 'EL OJO CRITICO' (The Critical Eye). The editorial stance appears to favor open inquiry into mysteries, acknowledging both the potential for rational explanations and the enduring nature of the unexplained. The interview with Raúl Núñez highlights a commitment to honest, in-depth investigation, distinguishing it from sensationalist reporting.

This issue of "El cerebro humano... La última frontera" delves into the profound mysteries of the human brain and consciousness, exploring scientific, philosophical, and even paranormal perspectives. It examines the brain's complexity, the nature of mental activity, and the ongoing debate about whether consciousness is purely a product of the brain or something more.

The Brain: A Biological Computer?

The magazine begins by highlighting the brain's incredible complexity, referring to it as a sophisticated supercomputer. It details the basic structure of the nervous system, the role of neurons, and the immense processing power of the brain. Despite significant advances in neuroscience, many questions remain unanswered regarding the origin of mental activity, memory storage, and the nature of self-awareness. The article mentions theories like the 'holographic brain' and disciplines like parapsychology, which are still viewed with skepticism by many neuroscientists.

Brain Structure and Function

The brain is described as having two symmetrical hemispheres, each with distinct functions: the left for logic and analysis, and the right for emotion and creativity. It is further divided into four lobes (frontal, temporal, parietal, occipital) and contains key structures like the thalamus and hypothalamus. The article also touches upon the electrical activity of the brain, measured by EEG, and the different brainwave frequencies associated with various states of consciousness.

The Mind-Body Debate

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the enduring debate surrounding the mind-body duality. While neuroscience posits that mental activity is a product of complex cerebral mechanisms, the exact definition of 'mind' remains elusive. The article explores whether the mind is a spiritual entity or an emergent property of the brain. It discusses concepts like the 'unconscious' and 'collective unconscious,' as theorized by Freud and Jung, respectively, suggesting that these hidden aspects of the psyche profoundly influence personality and behavior.

The Unconscious and Collective Unconscious

Sigmund Freud's concept of the 'unconscious' as a repository of latent representations is explained, along with its role in shaping our desires, fears, and instincts. Carl Jung's theory of the 'collective unconscious' introduces the idea of a universal psychic archive containing symbolic images common to all cultures, manifesting in myths, legends, and dreams.

Beyond the Physical Brain: Paranormal Phenomena

The magazine ventures into the realm of the paranormal, exploring phenomena that seem to transcend the physical limitations of the brain. It discusses theories of 'transpersonal psychology,' which suggests that consciousness can expand to higher levels of reality. Accounts of near-death experiences (NDEs), out-of-body experiences (OBEs), and other altered states of consciousness are presented as evidence for a non-physical aspect of the mind.

Extrasensory Perception and Other Phenomena

Articles explore extrasensory perception (ESP), psychokinesis (PK), telepathy, clairvoyance, and precognition. The work of pioneers in parapsychology, such as J.B. Rhine, is highlighted, along with the ongoing efforts to scientifically measure and understand these phenomena. The article also touches upon the idea of 'light beings,' extraterrestrials, and spiritual guides, and how individuals who claim to have encountered them often experience profound life changes.

Historical Perspectives: The Assassins

An intriguing historical account details the 'fidawis,' a group of assassins employed by Hassán Ibn-Sabah. These individuals were indoctrinated to believe they were experiencing paradise through the use of drugs and psychological manipulation, motivating them to carry out dangerous missions with absolute loyalty.

Conclusion: The Evolving Understanding of Consciousness

The issue concludes by emphasizing that our understanding of the brain and consciousness is still evolving. It suggests that new scientific paradigms, such as the holographic model of the brain and the growing interest in quantum physics and mysticism, are challenging traditional materialistic views. The magazine posits that these explorations into the unknown aspects of the mind may lead to a more holistic and interconnected view of reality.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the complexity of the human brain, the nature of consciousness, and the exploration of phenomena that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and accounts from both scientific and more unconventional perspectives, encouraging readers to consider the possibility of realities beyond the purely physical. There is a clear interest in bridging the gap between science and the unexplained, particularly in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and parapsychology.

This issue of NOTICIAS EOC, dated December 4, 2002, presents a diverse range of articles, including political commentary, investigative journalism into a controversial organization, and a speculative analysis of a major global event.

Stephen Bassett's UFO Platform Campaign

The lead story on the cover highlights Stephen Bassett, an independent candidate for Maryland's 8th congressional district, challenging incumbent Connie Morella. Bassett's campaign platform centers on the assertion that the US government is covering up the existence of extraterrestrial life. He aims to use his candidacy to draw media attention to this issue, stating, "We are up to our necks in extraterrestrials. The government has known for a long time... and it's time for the government to confess and say: 'It's true, we have them.'" Bassett, who has raised only US$600 and is seeking 4,000 signatures to qualify for the ballot, expects to capture 5 percent of the vote, potentially influencing the election's outcome. He plans to use the campaign as a referendum on the topic.

SiMiCon Rotor Craft: A New Spy Plane Design

An article introduces the SiMiCon Rotor Craft (SRC), an unmanned spy aircraft being developed by a Norwegian company. This disc-shaped aircraft combines vertical takeoff and landing capabilities with the ability to hover and fly at various speeds, offering an alternative to current unmanned spy planes that require runways and struggle with stationary hovering. The SRC features retractable rotor blades and is designed to be 4.5 meters in diameter and weigh around half a ton. Prototypes have undergone successful wind tunnel tests at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. Designers are working on developing a jet engine that would not protrude significantly from the aircraft's underside. While primarily intended for military reconnaissance, SiMiCon also sees potential civilian applications in policing, pollution detection, and reconnaissance in hazardous areas. It is estimated that the SRC could be operational within five years.

Robotic Helicopters and DARPA Funding

Parallel research into unmanned aerial vehicles includes autonomous robotic helicopters. Researchers at the University of Southern California, led by Gaurav Sukhatme, have developed a miniature helicopter capable of autonomous landing using onboard cameras and software. This helicopter is equipped with a video camera, navigation systems, and is being miniaturized to fit into a soldier's backpack. Much of this research is funded by DARPA, the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency.

Scientology: Religion or Intelligence Agency?

A lengthy investigative piece by Jon Atack explores the nature of Scientology, questioning whether it is a religion or an intelligence agency. The article details how David Miscavige admitted to closing the Guardian's Office in 1983, but claims a significant number of B-1 apprentices continued working for Scientology. It describes how the GO's functions were absorbed by new departments and private investigators. The article cites testimonies from former agents indicating that B-1 cells existed in Scientology centers worldwide, suggesting widespread espionage networks. It also mentions cases in Denmark and Finland where Scientology members were convicted for document theft or where politicians were banned due to infiltration policies. In France, a journalist reported a presidential aide clashing with Scientology over an investigation, and Albania expelled Scientologists in 1993 due to a perceived plan for domination.

The article delves into Scientology's use of private detectives, naming Eugene Ingram as a notable example, who is described as a former LAPD officer wanted in Oklahoma and Florida. Ingram is employed by Scientology's law firm, Bowles and Moxon, and has allegedly conducted "noisy investigations" for years. The author claims to have been followed by Ingram and other private investigators hired by Scientology. Ingram reportedly visited England in 1994, harassing the author's family and making accusations. He is also rumored to have boasted about his lucrative employment with Scientology, allowing him to purchase a village in Mexico.

Following Ingram's departure from England, anonymous publications allegedly featured strange stories he uncovered. The author recounts being targeted by a police raid and tax investigation in 1994. Scientology has also filed multiple lawsuits against the author and others to prevent the distribution of its documents. The article notes that while most of these lawsuits have been dismissed, the stress of litigation is significant. In Europe, there have been more cases against Scientology, with a Canadian Supreme Court ruling affirming previous decisions in a defamation case against Scientology, ordering them to pay $3 million to lawyer Casey Hill.

The article posits that Scientology's teachings suggest a global conspiracy orchestrated by aliens to combat "suppressive people" who control the world. Scientologists are seen as "soldiers of light" tasked with infiltrating positions of power. The organization's focus on "mental health" is highlighted as central to this conspiracy. Historical connections are drawn to Hubbard's reports to the FBI's communist activities branch and private discussions about a fascist conspiracy.

An example of Scientology's use of non-employee members for operations is the creation of the "Minutemen" in Los Angeles, used to harass former members. The article also describes a "Power Communication Lines Survey" from the 1980s, which asked Scientologists to identify influential individuals in their networks, including opinion leaders in media, legal, financial, and political fields. Scientology is noted to possess a powerful computer network called INCOMM.

The article outlines Scientology's intelligence strategy, which includes collecting data from public archives, covertly obtaining material through theft and spies, and conducting "noisy investigations." It also mentions the use of publicizing scandals, street demonstrations, undercover operations, anonymous confessions, defamation campaigns, and litigation.

The author describes personal attacks and legal battles initiated by Scientology, leading to his bankruptcy. He states that he has been forced to give up his home and has lost contact with his children. He urges those concerned about Scientology's actions to join the public debate, particularly online, to expose the organization's true nature and end its injustices.

Heber Carl Jentzsch Acquitted

A separate news item reports that Heber Carl Jentzsch, president of the Church of Scientology, was acquitted by a Madrid court of charges including public health crimes, illicit association, illegal detention, injury, and intrusion. The prosecutor decided to withdraw the accusation, deeming it to lack current content. The court issued an acquittal sentence for reasons of procedural economy.

11-S: The Beginning of the End of the World

This section presents a highly speculative and conspiratorial analysis of the September 11th attacks. The authors argue that the events of 9/11 were a consequence of a coup d'état initiated during the controversial and fraudulent US presidential elections in Florida, where Al Gore and George W. Bush vied for the presidency. They suggest that 9/11 marked the beginning of unprecedented global military and economic escalation driven by personal interests. The article questions the official narrative regarding the authorship of the attacks and points to a powerful group behind the events.

The article also touches upon the Bush family's history, mentioning Prescott Bush's involvement with the Apache cemetery and the Skull & Bones society, and George H.W. Bush's alleged ties to the CIA and oil businesses, including dealings with Muhammad Bin Laden. It suggests a pattern of questionable business dealings and financial failures within the family.

Regarding the 9/11 attacks themselves, the article raises doubts about the official account. It cites intelligence services from France (GNRS), Israel (Mossad), and the Vatican, as well as the Echelon surveillance system, as having had prior knowledge of impending events. The article notes that Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon canceled a trip to the US shortly before the attacks, reportedly due to security concerns. It questions the Secret Service's decision to allow President Bush to remain at an elementary school in Sarasota, Florida, on the morning of 9/11, given its proximity to an airport and the known threat of suicide plane attacks. The author suggests that Bush may have known the school would not be targeted.

The article further speculates that the plans for the 9/11 attacks may have been outlined in government reports and even in futuristic novels. It references a novel titled "Operation Hebron" that allegedly described an aerial terrorist attack on the Twin Towers, the Pentagon, the Capitol, and the White House, mirroring the actual events. This novel was reportedly written by a former Mossad agent citing preventive reports from Mossad and the CIA.

Public reaction to the attacks is also discussed, with many people in Tunisia, Riyadh, and Yemen calling American embassies to express outrage and accuse Saudis of involvement. The article notes that Saudis featured in media reports as terrorists who died in the attacks were shocked to find themselves reported dead, with one individual calling the US embassy to confirm he was alive and not involved.

The article questions the pilot experience of the alleged hijackers, citing an interview with Ishaq Kuheiji, a veteran airline pilot, who expressed doubt that pilots with limited experience in small aircraft could have piloted large passenger jets into targets with such precision. It suggests that the flight control systems of the aircraft may have been manipulated and programmed on the ground, allowing for remote activation and control, a technology used in cruise missiles and unmanned aircraft.

The article also touches upon the execution of Timothy McVeigh, the Oklahoma City bombing perpetrator, and the presence of William Pierce's book "The Turner Diaries" in his car, which reportedly inspired him to commit a suicide attack on the Pentagon with a plane. Jürgen Storbeck, director of Europol, is quoted stating that more extensive investigation was needed before implicating anyone, and that while Bin Laden might have been informed or had influence, he likely did not design or control all operations.

The section concludes by discussing the uncertainty surrounding the exact number of victims of the 9/11 attacks, with figures fluctuating significantly from initial estimates of 35,000 missing to a final confirmed death toll of 2,800.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include government secrecy and cover-ups (related to UFOs and the 9/11 attacks), the alleged manipulative and potentially sinister operations of Scientology, and a general skepticism towards official narratives surrounding major events. The editorial stance appears to be one of investigative journalism, aiming to expose hidden truths and challenge established accounts, particularly concerning intelligence agencies, controversial organizations, and geopolitical events. The magazine seems to favor alternative theories and critical perspectives, as evidenced by its coverage of Stephen Bassett's UFO platform and its in-depth analysis of Scientology's alleged clandestine activities and the speculative interpretation of the 9/11 attacks.

This issue of Año Cero, dated November 2001 (Volume 11, Issue 123), is a Spanish-language magazine focusing on conspiracy theories, paranormal phenomena, and geopolitical analysis. The cover story, "The Terrible Real Enemy: The Chinese Dragon," highlights the magazine's critical stance on US foreign policy and its analysis of global power dynamics.

Analysis of the 9/11 Attacks and Financial Implications

The magazine extensively analyzes the 9/11 attacks, questioning the official narrative and suggesting a complex web of financial fraud and insider trading. It posits that approximately 80-85% of WTC workers were not at their posts, raising questions about their absence. The article "When Money Smells..." by Anne Marie Mergier details how financial analysts identified "insiders" who profited from the attacks by speculating on stock price drops. Specific examples include United Airlines, American Airlines, Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Co., and Merrill Lynch & Co., whose 'put' options saw significant increases in the week preceding the attacks. The Chicago Stock Exchange's Control Commission alerted authorities to these suspicious gains, leading to an investigation by the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO).

The magazine also points to suspicious details surrounding the Pentagon attack, questioning the evidence presented and the handling of the black boxes. It highlights the seemingly contradictory information regarding the black box from the Pentagon, which was initially reported to be in perfect condition but later stated to have had its data erased. The article also criticizes the terrorists for leaving behind obvious clues, such as fake credit cards and a pilot's manual in Arabic, questioning the sophistication of the operation versus the amateurish evidence left behind.

The Carlyle Group and its Connections

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the Carlyle Group, a global investment firm. The magazine links the group to the Saudi Bin Laden Group and highlights its connections to prominent political figures, including George H.W. Bush (former US President and CIA Director) and James Baker (former White House Chief of Staff). The article suggests that the Carlyle Group, which manages a large portion of the Saudi Bin Laden Group's investments, could be implicated in the illicit use of privileged information related to the 9/11 attacks. The article also notes the presence of former CIA directors and influence agents within the BCCI bank, further suggesting a network of powerful individuals involved in financial dealings.

Geopolitical Analysis: The Rise of China and US Strategy

The magazine presents a geopolitical analysis, arguing that the US is using the 9/11 attacks as a pretext for a global rearmament and to establish control over oil reserves. A key focus is the perceived threat from China, which is described as an emerging superpower. The article suggests that the US aims to prevent any understanding between China and Islamic countries. It cites a CIA report indicating that China's support for countries like Iraq and Iran could lead to them becoming nuclear powers by 2005. The magazine also touches upon US interventions in Latin America, such as the Plan Puebla Panama and Plan Colombia, as part of a strategy to establish global control.

Afghanistan: Opium, Gas, Oil, and Weapons

The article "Afghanistan: Opium, Gas, Oil, Weapons... And Bin Laden?" explores the strategic importance of Afghanistan. It highlights the region's vast natural resources, including oil, gas, and uranium, as well as its role as a major producer of opium and heroin. The magazine suggests that the US interest in Afghanistan is tied to controlling these resources and establishing a strategic foothold in the region. It also mentions the historical connections between the Bush family and the oil industry, as well as their dealings with the Taliban.

Paranormal and Esoteric Content

Beyond its geopolitical and conspiracy-focused articles, the magazine includes sections on paranormal phenomena and ufology. "The Mexican Ufology Emigrates to Spain" reports on Daniel Muñoz, a Mexican ufologist who has moved to Alicante, Spain, and is expected to influence Spanish ufology. "New Esoteric Magazine" announces the upcoming launch of an ambitious esoteric magazine by Grupo Z. "The Photo..." features a picture of Padre Apeles and Profesor Darbó, described as friends with a shared interest in the mysterious and supernatural. The magazine also includes a section on "TV Paranormal This Summer," lamenting the expected format of sensationalist debates and limited reporting.

Cover Image and Website

The cover features the iconic image of a flying saucer with the text "I WANT TO BELIEVE," reinforcing the magazine's focus on unexplained phenomena. The issue also includes a reference to the website WWW.MUNDOMISTERIOSO.CO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Año Cero are the questioning of official narratives, particularly surrounding major events like 9/11, the exploration of financial conspiracies and insider dealings, and the analysis of geopolitical power struggles. The magazine adopts a critical and often skeptical stance towards government actions and mainstream media reports, consistently suggesting hidden agendas and powerful forces at play. There is a strong emphasis on uncovering alleged manipulations and exposing what the editors perceive as the truth behind major global events. The inclusion of paranormal and ufological content suggests a broad interest in mysteries and the unexplained, often framed within a conspiratorial worldview.