AI Magazine Summary
NOUFA - No 37 - 2016
AI-Generated Summary
This issue of Noticiero Ufológico Autónomo, identified as N° 37 – BD – Noufa2, dated February 29, 2016, focuses heavily on the enigmatic 'Men in Black' (Hombres de Negro) phenomenon. The cover features a stark image of a pale, bald man in a suit and tie, with the headline…
Magazine Overview
This issue of Noticiero Ufológico Autónomo, identified as N° 37 – BD – Noufa2, dated February 29, 2016, focuses heavily on the enigmatic 'Men in Black' (Hombres de Negro) phenomenon. The cover features a stark image of a pale, bald man in a suit and tie, with the headline "HOMBRES DE NEGRO" and a provocative question: "UFOLOGICAL FOLKLORE OR CONTROL BY THOSE WHO PULL THE STRINGS OF THE WORLD?"
Editorial
The editorial, penned by Raúl Núñez, reflects on the magazine's continued activity despite a sense of potential finality, attributing this to a feeling of debt towards its readers. Núñez acknowledges the overwhelming and often repetitive nature of information found online, particularly on Facebook, which can lead to a loss of certainty and a descent into magical thinking. Despite these challenges, the magazine persists in publishing, driven by a sentimental desire to include myths, legends, and older cases, connecting them with new experiences to uncover unique cases and maintain reader interest. The editor expresses gratitude for reader contributions and hopes the current issue is well-received.
Collaborators and Sources
The issue features contributions from a list of individuals including Benedicto Cerda, Virgilio Sánchez-Ocejo, Ramón Navia-Osorio, Víctor López, Sigrid Gröthe, Rubén Hernández, Pedro Rivas, Sergio Alcayaga, Sandra Cárcamo, Willy Pine, Salvador Freixedo, David Álvarez, Javier Belmar, José Antonio Caravaca, Antonio Gascón Ricio, and Angel Briongos Martíñez. Media sources cited include La Tercera de la Hora, Las Últimas Noticias, Emol, La Segunda de Chile, La Razón, ABC, El País, El Mundo, La Vanguardia, and El Periódico de España. Archival sources mentioned are those of Luis Altamirano, IIEE de Chile, and Aquiles Castillo.
Upcoming Issue
NOUFA N° 38 will feature an interview with Major Rodrigo Bravo Garrido of the Chilean Army, focusing on UFOs from a Chilean perspective. This interview is slated to be included on the IIEE de Chile website.
Table of Contents
The ÍNDICE - TEMARIO (Index - Contents) outlines the articles within the issue:
- Page 1: Cover – Global representation of a Man in Black.
- Page 2: Editorial – Collaborators of this issue.
- Page 3: Index - Temario.
- Pages 4-12: The men in black continue and add up...
- Page 13: Classic science fiction films, 1960s.
- Pages 14-16: UFOs in Bolivia.
- Page 17: Friendship – Final Point.
- Page 18: X-Files – Return to the Past.
- Pages 19-24: The miracle of the lame man of Calanda.
- Pages 25-26: 62 years after the discovery of the Inca child mummy on El Plomo hill.
- Page 27: The World upside down – Salvador Freixedo.
- Pages 28-33: The mystery of the disappeared Templar fleet that may have reached America before Columbus.
- Page 34: Anomalous Curiosities.
- Page 35: The Pencil Sharpener of Julián Lenguaraz.
- Page 36: Letters to the editor.
- Pages 37-38: The good ones – A science fiction story by Benedicto Cerda.
- Page 39: Ufological Humor.
Featured Quote
A prominent quote attributed to Andreas Faber Kaiser states: "The human being of planet Earth is a product manufactured by intelligent beings who inhabited the Universe or part of it long before our existence. These beings have placed us on the planet we inhabit today and continue to closely control our evolution. They have never stopped subtly guiding the course of our history."
Article: LOS HOMBRES DE NEGRO SIGUEN Y SUMAN (The Men in Black Continue and Add Up)
This article begins by acknowledging the potential irony of revisiting the 'Men in Black' (MIB) theme, suggesting they might be considered obsolete. However, the author insists on updating archives and conducting comparative studies, admitting to being occasionally astonished by new information. The MIB theme has been a lucrative subject for American cinema, with films like "Men in Black" being entertaining, though perhaps not to be taken entirely seriously. The phenomenon dates back to the 1950s and 60s, with similar figures appearing throughout history, often associated with demonic or witchcraft themes, their portrayal evolving with the times and societal mentality.
The author recounts a case involving a successful industrial engineer who, years after a strange experience, confessed to seeing small, dwarf-like beings emerge from a bright light, who then disappeared. Weeks later, two men, approximately 1.90 meters tall, dressed in black, approached him outside his home. They emphatically warned him not to mention the episode to anyone, especially details about what he had seen or where it occurred. They spoke with a neutral, metallic tone and left in a black, old-fashioned Cadillac, described as resembling a large hearse.
The witness, identified as P.B. (who wishes to remain anonymous), provided details of a classic 1948 Cadillac. The author assures readers that their investigations have been extensive and thorough, including private conversations with the witness's colleagues, who confirmed his professional integrity and lack of mental instability. The article notes that P.B. had no prior interest in ufology and was unaware of the phenomenon.
Article: CANTERA DE DEUCO – IX REGION – AÑO 1973 (Deuco Quarry – IX Region – Year 1973)
This section details a significant case from 1973, reported by Víctor López, which occurred on the night of the military coup in Chile. Around 11:00 PM, under a clear, starry sky, an alert was issued at a quarry camp. Approximately 300 workers were informed of large, round objects descending from the sky over the Cordillera de Nahuelbuta, at an altitude of a couple of thousand meters. These objects, described as not being in formation but moving together, displayed various maneuvers, including pirouettes and circles, without producing any noise. Víctor López counted 15 objects, emphatically stating they were not airplanes due to their silence and ability to hover.
Witnesses, including López, climbed to higher ground and observed the objects descend into the quarry. They described the craft as circular, like inverted plates, about 8 to 10 meters in diameter and 3 meters high, with an aluminum color that was not very bright. They noted openings resembling round windows from which lights of various colors (lilac, yellow, green, orange, red, light blue, light green) emanated. The objects remained stationary in the air, occasionally emitting pulses of light.
After about 10 minutes, two of the craft hovered about four or five meters above the quarry's main lagoon, which was approximately five meters deep at the time. Other objects remained fixed about 10 meters above the water's surface. The witnesses observed from a height of 40 meters, with the objects approximately 50 meters away. The silence was described as sepulchral.
The observation concluded when all objects ascended simultaneously, not rapidly, and headed towards the Cordillera de Nahuelbuta. Víctor López has not witnessed anything similar since, emphasizing the clarity of his observation from a privileged vantage point. The quarry's current dimensions are noted as 103 meters in diameter and 50 meters deep for one pit, and 100 meters and 45 meters deep for another.
The article also reveals an omitted detail from the original report: a few days after the sighting, Víctor López, who lived as a hermit in a humble wooden cabin, observed a large, unusual black car and people dressed in black examining the surroundings. He remained hidden, fearing the individuals might be military intelligence. Their attire, dark glasses, and the black car fit the description of "Men in Black." López, who was illiterate and had no prior knowledge of UFOs, could not connect this event to anything specific at the time.
Article: OTROS CASOS (Other Cases)
This section briefly mentions the Isla de Maury incident, which occurred shortly before June 24, 1947. It notes the appearance of "men in black" at the crash site of an airplane, observed by local farmers who collected material related to the accident. Some witnesses confirmed the visit of these unidentified, sinister emissaries.
Further information on this incident is referenced from a previous NOUFA publication (June 29, 2015) and an article by John Keel in Revista SAGA UFO REPORT (1976), translated by Scott Corrales, which discusses the perplexing appearance of "men in black" in a forest setting.
Article: UN HECHO DE PUDO HABER SIDO PROPAGANDA Y QUE SE ESTABILIZO COMO VERDADERO – ALBERT BENDER, AÑOS 50 (A Fact That Could Have Been Propaganda and Became True – Albert Bender, 1950s)
This section introduces Albert Bender, director of the International Flying Saucer Bureau, who claimed to have found the answer to the flying saucer mystery. However, Bender was allegedly prevented from sharing his discovery with the world, reportedly due to a visit from three sinister men dressed in black who intimidated him. Bender intended to publish his findings in his magazine, "Space Review," but before doing so, he shared his article with a colleague via mail. Shortly after, the MIB appeared.
The article questions whether this was propaganda or marketing, or if it holds any truth. It notes that Bender collaborated with ufologist Gray Barker, co-author of the 1956 book "Sabía demasiado sobre platillos voladores" (I Knew Too Much About Flying Saucers), and that the concept of "Men in Black" became deeply ingrained in American consciousness in the 1950s and 60s, evolving into modern folklore or "folktruth."
The History of Albert Bender
In September 1953, individuals visited Albert K. Bender, who was actively investigating UFOs. Bender believed he had found the solution and sent his findings by mail to a friend. However, the individuals intercepted the material. They told Bender he was the only investigator to have found the answer and provided him with additional details that frightened him, causing him to fall ill and refuse to eat for several days.
A photograph shows Albert Bender with men in black, with the caption suggesting many believe he invented the story. After this encounter, Bender reportedly refused to speak about UFOs again. He later wrote a book, "Flying Saucers and the Three Men," which he claimed would reveal his experiences. However, the book complicated matters by mentioning astral projection to a flying saucer base in Antarctica, leading some to believe the book was a cover-up. Bender also claimed to have seen extraterrestrials in their natural form, describing them as "horrible monsters," who only adopted the MIB appearance when interacting with humans.
OVNI (UFO) Encounters with Bender
Shortly after, Roberts and Dominick Lucchesi, members of the IFSB, visited Bender. When asked about the men in black, Bender refused to answer, later stating that an invisible extraterrestrial was present. Despite numerous questions about flying saucers, their origins, and objectives, Bender remained silent.
Article: EL CASO DEL DR. HERBERT HOPKINS (The Case of Dr. Herbert Hopkins)
This case occurred in September 1976 in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, USA. Dr. Herbert Hopkins, a 58-year-old physician and hypnotist, was consulting on a supposed UFO teleportation case. One night, while his family was out, his phone rang. A man identifying himself as the vice-president of the Organization of Investigation OVNI New Jersey asked to visit that night. Hopkins agreed. He found it strange that the visitor appeared at his door so quickly without him seeing a car. The visitor, dressed impeccably in black, including a white shirt and black tie, seemed to fill his clothes poorly. He had no hair or eyebrows, a receding chin, and unusually pale skin, with a mouth that appeared to be stained with lipstick.
Key descriptions of Men in Black from this case include:
- They dress anticuadately and elegantly, with shiny white shirts.
- They have slumped chests, difficulty walking, and sudden fatigue/decline after interrogating witnesses, as if on a time limit.
- Their black cars are collector's items and impeccable.
- They walk with short steps, leaning forward as if about to fall.
- They speak concisely and use neutral language.
- They appear to have photophobia.
Hopkins' dog reacted fearfully to the visitor, barking and then hiding.
The visitor demonstrated a remarkable feat: he asked Hopkins for a coin, which then appeared to turn silver, fade, and disappear completely, with the MIB stating it would never be seen "on this plane" again. The visitor then inquired if Hopkins was familiar with alleged UFO abductees.
Hopkins' response was that he had heard of Barney Hill but believed he had died years ago. The MIB confirmed Barney Hill's death, attributing it to a lack of heart, similar to the coin's disappearance. The MIB then advised Hopkins to destroy any material related to the "Stephens case."
The visitor's energy seemed to wane, and he left abruptly. Hopkins, thoroughly shaken, followed his advice. He retrieved the "Stephens case" material, demagnetized tapes, cut them into pieces, and burned them along with other related documents. The article notes that the Organization of Investigation OVNI New Jersey does not exist.
Upon returning, Hopkins' family found unusual tracks on the driveway, resembling a small tractor tire, too narrow for a car. Hopkins later experienced phone line problems, with static, dropped calls, and complaints from patients about his line being out of service. The phone company determined the line had been tampered with, but could not identify by whom.
USAF Acknowledgment of MIB-like Activity
The article cites Colonel George P. Freeman, spokesperson for the USAF Project Blue Book, who in 1967 told UFO investigator John Keel that "mysterious men dressed in Air Force uniforms or carrying impressive credentials from government agencies have been silencing UFO witnesses." Freeman stated that these individuals were not connected to the Air Force and that their actions constituted a federal crime. He expressed a desire to apprehend them but noted that by the time they received reports, the trail had gone cold.
The article questions whether these impostors were similar to Dr. Hopkins' visitor, suggesting that while UFO sightings attract mentally unstable individuals, some MIB reports might involve genuine, albeit unusual, investigators.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring theme throughout this issue is the persistent and often unsettling presence of the "Men in Black" in UFO lore. The magazine presents these encounters not as mere folklore but as potentially real events involving individuals who may be attempting to suppress information or influence witnesses. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, acknowledging the strangeness and difficulty in verifying such accounts, while still giving credence to witness testimonies, particularly those from seemingly credible individuals like Dr. Hopkins and the engineer from Santiago. The magazine positions itself as a platform for exploring these anomalous phenomena, even when they challenge conventional understanding and involve potential cover-ups or control mechanisms.
This issue of "FRIENDSHIP" features a "PUNTO FINAL" (Final Point) section, dated 1968, with a cover headline that suggests a concluding or definitive statement on a topic. The magazine appears to focus on unexplained phenomena, UFOs, and related mysteries.
Key Articles and Features
The 'Friendship' Case and its Conclusion
The "PUNTO FINAL" section, authored by Raúl Núñez, addresses the "Friendship" case, an enigma that has persisted for over 30 years. Núñez expresses his personal conclusion on the matter, which he shared three years prior in Punta Arenas. He acknowledges that no one owns the absolute truth in such matters but feels the information has become a "varied salad" where the original flavor is lost. He criticizes the involvement of intelligence services, mysterious disappearances of investigators, self-proclaimed gurus, and the repetitive nature of claims that have become accepted as truth through sheer repetition. Núñez views the ongoing discussion of the topic as a "circus of enigmas" and expresses his decision to no longer engage with "Friendship" and its derivatives, feeling manipulated by an entity that exploited circumstances years ago to deceive people.
UFO Encounters and 'Men in Black'
The issue details several UFO-related incidents and the phenomenon of 'Men in Black'.
- Bruce Cathie's Encounter: In New Zealand, Bruce Cathie was approached by a strange individual in a hotel restaurant who inquired about special antennas and later asked for his contact information before vanishing, leaving behind a strong smell of electrical discharge.
- Eduard Christiansen's Case: On January 9, 1967, in Wildwood, New Jersey, Eduard Christiansen encountered a tall man with a metallic voice and unusual eyes, who warned him to forget about a recent UFO sighting for his own safety. The man requested water and left in a black 1953 Cadillac.
- Men in Black as Silencers: The magazine posits that 'Men in Black' function as 'silencers,' aiming to control information about UFOs, silence witnesses, and confiscate evidence. Some were reportedly seen interviewing Roswell witnesses in 1947. Witnesses describe them as expressionless, lacking vitality, and inducing feelings of lost time and telepathic communication.
- Investigator Bill Moore's Theory: According to expert Bill Moore, these beings might belong to a special Air Force investigation unit formed in 1948 to protect technology and personnel from 'external threats.'
- Herbert Hopkins' Case: In 1976, investigator Herbert Hopkins was visited by a bald, eyebrow-less individual with painted lips who suggested a change in his research focus, stating, "My energy is running out, I must leave."
- Common Descriptions: Witnesses often describe these beings as wearing black, having physical deficiencies, strange hair, faded skin, and using vintage cars. They are said to diminish in strength as they interact with witnesses.
UFO Sightings in Bolivia
The issue features a significant section on UFO phenomena in Bolivia, highlighting the challenges of investigating cases in remote Altiplano regions with indigenous populations who may struggle to articulate their experiences.
- Rómulo Velásquez's Experience: A miner from Huaylloco, Rómulo Velásquez, reported an encounter on May 29th with a "white object with human appearance" and a "large object in the shape of a plate." He felt drawn to the object, and a cold hand grabbed him. He lost consciousness for two days and woke up in a vacant room in Cabrería with paralysis in his leg and right arm. His face was also twisted. After recovering, he was left with strabismus (crossed eyes).
- Other Witnesses: On June 17th, between 7 and 8 PM, inhabitants of various towns in the Altiplano, including Poopo, Avicaya, Antequera, Choro, Huaylloco, and Vilaque, reported seeing a strange luminous object crossing the sky.
- Police Testimony: Germán Rocha, a provincial police chief in Poopo, reported seeing a violet light on June 17th while investigating a case. He and others witnessed a strange object that caused campesinos to cover their faces and flee. A loud detonation followed, resembling a dynamite blast, and a persistent engine-like noise. Later that night, a brilliant light entered his dormitory window, and he saw the luminous object disappear into space, leaving him deeply impressed.
- Traveler's Account: Paulino Bohorquez, traveling from Oruro to Poopo on June 17th, saw an oval-shaped object resembling a star, emitting sparks like fireworks.
- Housewife's Report: Maria Luisa de Blacutt reported seeing a luminous, oval-shaped apparatus on June 17th at 7:45 PM, which disappeared through the rooftops, emitting reddish flames from its rear and bluish light.
- Restaurant Owner's Observation: Luis Valenzuela, a restaurant owner in Poopo, witnessed the patio being completely illuminated on June 17th around 7:30 PM. He saw an object disappear into the distance. His wife later confirmed a similar experience when a couple, the Quispes, reported being paralyzed in Huaylloco when the area was illuminated by a luminous object.
- General Fear: The widespread sightings have instilled fear and apprehension in the remote Altiplano populations.
Film Review: Village of the Damned (1960)
This section reviews the 1960 British science fiction horror film "Village of the Damned," based on John Wyndham's novel "The Midwich Cuckoos." The film, starring George Sanders, is noted for its premise where women in a village inexplicably become pregnant and give birth to albino children with intense blue eyes and remarkable intelligence, but who exhibit unnatural, cold, and inhuman behavior as they grow.
The Miracle of the Lame Man of Calanda
This extensive report details the alleged miracle of Miguel Juan Pellicer in Calanda, Spain. Pellicer, a 23-year-old man, had his right leg amputated below the knee in Zaragoza in 1637 due to a wagon accident. The leg was buried in the hospital cemetery. Two years and five months later, on March 29, 1640, Pellicer reportedly experienced a miraculous reimplantation of his right leg while sleeping. His mother noticed he had two feet. The event caused a stir in the town and was attributed to the Virgin of the Pilar. Surgeons who examined him confirmed the extraordinary nature of the event, stating it had no scientific explanation. The story became widely known across Europe.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, extraterrestrial encounters, alleged miracles, and the potential for government or hidden forces to control information and silence witnesses. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting these accounts and allowing readers to draw their own conclusions, while also critically examining the narratives and the motivations of those involved, as seen in the "Friendship" case conclusion. There's a clear interest in historical cases and their potential connections to modern phenomena.
This issue of EL MUNDO AL REVES (The World Upside Down), dated October 2014, presents a collection of articles that delve into historical mysteries, investigations, and contemporary social commentary. The magazine's title suggests a theme of challenging conventional narratives and exposing hidden truths.
The Miracle of Calanda: An Investigation
The issue dedicates significant space to the 'Miracle of Calanda,' a renowned event in Spanish history. The article "UNA INVESTIGACIÓN EN TODA REGLA" (An Investigation in Due Form) details the official process initiated by the mayor of Zaragoza and the Archbishop of Zaragoza, Don Pedro de Apaolaza, to investigate the restitution of Miguel Juan Pellicer's leg in 1640. The process was made public to ensure transparency, with testimonies published in vernacular Spanish. The formal declaration by the Archbishop on April 27, 1641, declared the event a miracle, stating that Pellicer's right leg had been miraculously restored and was not an act of nature but a divine intervention.
The article "UN PUÑETAZO DIRECTO A LA RAZÓN..." (A Punch Directly to Reason...) acknowledges the incredulity such a story might provoke, framing it as a manifestation of God's power. It quotes Pascal on the nature of faith and divine revelation, suggesting the Calanda miracle is a rare instance where God's presence becomes visibly manifest.
A more critical perspective is presented in the article "¿El cojo o el pícaro de Calanda?" (The Lame Man or the Rogue of Calanda?) by Ángel Briongos and Antonio Gascón. After ten years of research, their book "El milagro del cojo de Calanda. La génesis de un mito" (The Miracle of the Lame Man of Calanda. The Genesis of a Myth) aims to demythologize the event. They argue that the story is a myth forged by power, not a genuine miracle, and that Pellicer should be remembered as a 'rogue' rather than a 'lame man.' They cite irregularities in the ecclesiastical process and suggest that the Church's interest in verifying the miracle led to its confirmation.
Ester Casorrán Berges, in her critique "A vueltas con el Milagro de Calanda" (Back to the Miracle of Calanda), expresses both hilarity and indignation at Briongos and Gascón's work. She accuses them of lacking professional ethics, methodology, and historical analysis, and of attempting to discredit previous research. She points out alleged errors in their interpretation of historical sources and methods.
Antonio Gascón Ricao, in his response "Sostenella y no enmendalla" (Hold Firm and Don't Amend), defends their research against Casorrán Berges' criticism. He argues that their findings reveal a centuries-old deception orchestrated by numerous scholars and that the historical record has been manipulated. He highlights issues with the ecclesiastical process, the alleged non-existence of certain historical texts, and the questionable circumstances surrounding the exhumation of Pellicer's leg.
Raúl Núñez, in "Por: Raúl Núñez," shares his personal connection to the investigation, commending the authors' dedication and the book's contribution to understanding historical events. He notes that Briongos has also investigated other phenomena, such as the 'bloody hosts of Daroca.'
The Mystery of the Templar Fleet
The article "EL MISTERIO DE LA FLOTA DESAPARECIDA DE LOS TEMPLARIOS QUE PUDO LLEGAR A AMÉRICA ANTES QUE COLÓN" (The Mystery of the Disappeared Templar Fleet That Could Have Reached America Before Columbus) explores the fate of a Templar fleet that left France in 1307. Fleeing persecution by King Philip IV of France, a dozen ships of the Order of the Temple vanished without a trace. The article discusses the origins of the Knights Templar, founded in 1118 to protect Christian pilgrims in the Holy Land, and their rise to prominence and wealth. It details the persecution they faced, culminating in their dissolution by Pope Clement V under pressure from Philip IV. The article speculates that this lost fleet may have reached the Americas before Christopher Columbus, highlighting the Templars' advanced knowledge of navigation.
Discovery of the Inca Child Mummy
"SE CUMPLEN 62 AÑOS DEL DESCUBRIMIENTO DE LA MOMIA DEL NIÑO INCA EN EL CERRO ELPLOMO" (It's Been 62 Years Since the Discovery of the Inca Child Mummy on Cerro El Plomo) recounts the 1954 discovery of a remarkably preserved Inca child mummy. Guillermo Chacón, Luis Gerardo Ríos, and Jaime Ríos found the body on Cerro El Plomo, near Santiago, Chile, at an altitude of 5,400 meters. The mummy, believed to be a ritual sacrifice, was later acquired by the National Museum of Natural History in Santiago. The article details the excavation, the negotiations for its purchase, and its significance as the first discovery of its kind in Chile. It also explains that the body is not technically mummified but rather freeze-dried (lyophilized) due to the cold.
El Mundo al Revés: Social Commentary
Salvador Freixedo's article "EL MUNDO AL REVES" uses the phrase "the world upside down" to describe contemporary news reflecting a lack of common sense. He provides examples of societal issues, including parental rights being violated, false accusations, and the normalization of pornography and prostitution. Freixedo criticizes the state's increasing intervention in private family matters, viewing it as a step towards a global dictatorship. The accompanying sonnet, "MULTA POR UNA COLLEJA" (Fine for a Spank), satirizes a perceived overreach of the justice system, where a father is fined for disciplining his son while politicians who commit crimes go unpunished.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The magazine consistently challenges established narratives and historical accounts, encouraging critical thinking. The articles on the Calanda miracle and the Templar fleet exemplify this approach, presenting alternative interpretations and highlighting historical mysteries. The inclusion of social commentary by Salvador Freixedo further reinforces the theme of a world where conventional logic and justice seem to be inverted. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards official accounts and a commitment to uncovering lesser-known or suppressed historical facts and contemporary social critiques.
This issue of the magazine, identified by the number 31 and with a publication date of December 10, 2002, delves into a variety of intriguing topics ranging from historical mysteries to contemporary ufology and spiritual accounts. The cover prominently features the book "Enclaves Templarios" by María Lara Martínez, suggesting a focus on Templar history and its associated enigmas.
The Enigmatic Templar Fleet
The magazine explores the mystery surrounding the Templar fleet's disappearance. According to historical accounts and investigator Juan G. Atienza, the Order of the Temple acquired ships early on, assisting figures like Richard the Lionheart and James I of Aragon. The fleet was active until 1307, when, upon the persecution of the Order, 13 ships reportedly set sail from La Rochelle. Their ultimate destination remains unknown, fueling speculation. María Lara suggests the fleet may have fled the Mediterranean in its entirety, seeking a hidden haven. The article "¿DÓNDE DESEMBARCÓ LA FLOTA?" (Where did the fleet disembark?) presents several theories:
1. Portugal: Considered a logical possibility due to Portugal's generally good relations with the Order. The Reconquista was ending, allowing Templars to focus on scholarship, potentially leading to their involvement in the Order of Christ. Portuguese mariners like Vasco de Gama might have utilized Templar wisdom for their discoveries.
2. Scotland: It's suggested that Templars might have landed in Argyll, Scotland, and unloaded goods in Kilmory or Castle Suite. Investigator Ernesto Frers posits a connection with Robert the Bruce, who, despite being excommunicated, allegedly received Templar support against England.
3. Sicily: This theory, considered plausible but less discussed, proposes the Templar fleet sailed to Sicily. The region had been conquered by Roger de Guiscard, whose lineage used a flag later adopted by the Templars.
4. America: The most "conspiratorial" theory suggests the Templar ships crossed the Atlantic nearly 100 years before Columbus. Legends speak of white men imparting knowledge to native populations in the Yucatán. Some accounts mention that indigenous peoples were not surprised by the crosses of the Spanish warriors, implying prior contact. The Mayans' worship of Kukulkán, a white, bearded god, is also cited as a parallel.
Mother Teresa: Tentations and Exorcism
A section titled "CURIOSIDADES ANOMALAS" (Anomalous Curiosities) presents "MADRE TERESA FUE TENTADA POR EL DIABLO" (Mother Teresa Was Tempted by the Devil). Newly revealed documents, including her private diary, letters, and writings, suggest that Mother Teresa was subjected to an exorcism. According to priest Brian Kolodiejchuck, who is the postulator for her beatification cause, Satan tempted her in various ways, even possessing her. After an exorcism, the devil reportedly left her. The article notes that she experienced the "dark night of the soul," a period of spiritual doubt common among mystics. Experts explain that great figures face both diabolical temptations (hindering sleep and normal life) and spiritual ones (eroding faith). Kolodiejchuck also highlights Mother Teresa's profound devotion from a young age.
"Moros en la Costa" - A Political Interpretation of Islam
The article "MOROS EN LA COSTA" (Moors on the Coast) by Fernando Sánchez Dragó offers a controversial perspective, arguing that Islam is fundamentally a political ideology, not merely a religion. The author criticizes both the left and the right for misinterpreting or misrepresenting Islam. He contends that certain verses in the Quran advocate for the conversion or subjugation of non-believers. Sánchez Dragó asserts that political issues often have theological underpinnings and vice versa, and labels those who oppose strong measures against perceived threats as guilty of "high treason" and "stupidity."
Ufology and Reader Contributions
The magazine includes a "CARTAS AL DIRECTOR" (Letters to the Director) section, featuring correspondence from readers. Julio Hormazabal inquires about a presentation on the "Isla de Friendship" (Friendship Island) at a ufological event in Punta Arenas. Raúl Núñez, Director of NOUFA, responds, confirming his presentation and mentioning the event was likely recorded. Pedro Arizmendi asks about an upcoming ufology event in Santiago. Jaime Arrué inquires about NOUFA's coverage of nocturnal tours related to spirits and past dramas. NOUFA-Chile responds, acknowledging the topic is not their usual focus but expressing openness to exploring it.
Joel Guevara asks about "karmic sex." NOUFA-Chile replies that they are researching the topic, admitting it's outside their usual experience but they are willing to explore it.
"Los Buenos" - A Fictional Extraterrestrial Encounter
A fictional story titled "LOS BUENOS" (The Good Ones) is presented. It describes a dystopian future in 2075 where the narrator is hiding from "khumitas." These beings are described as hybrids, half-machine and half-flesh, with a superior technology. They arrived in a stadium-sized, cigar-shaped ship, claiming to be on a peace mission. However, they later became the "intermediaries" for the "khumitas," who then began to persecute humans. The "khumitas" are depicted as ruthless, dismembering humans for food. The story suggests a breakdown in an agreement between the "good ones" and the "khumitas."
Humorous Takes on UFOs
The "HUMOR UFOLOGICO" (Ufological Humor) section features two cartoons. The first depicts a scene with ancient figures interpreting a prophecy about the world's destruction in 2016, questioning if it's due to a politician. The second cartoon shows a mother telling her child to stop playing with their cell phone, asking who else they are texting, with an alien ship visible in the background.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue include historical mysteries (Templars), paranormal phenomena (UFOs, extraterrestrial encounters, spiritual experiences), and critical analysis of political and religious ideologies. The magazine appears to embrace a broad spectrum of speculative and investigative content, from historical research to fictional narratives and reader-submitted inquiries. The editorial stance, particularly in the "Moros en la Costa" article, leans towards a critical and politically charged interpretation of certain ideologies, while other sections maintain a more open and inquisitive approach to unexplained phenomena.