NOUFA - No 42

Magazine Overview

Title: Noticiero Ufológico Autónomo
Issue: N° 42 – BD
Date: August 1, 2016
Publisher: NOUFA
Theme: Mysteries in Art, Symbols, and Dreams, and their connection to ufology.

Content Summary

This issue of Noticiero Ufológico Autónomo, titled "MISTERIOS EN EL ARTE Y LOS ARTISTAS" (Mysteries in Art and Artists), explores the intriguing connections between artistic expression, symbolism, dreams, and potential extraterrestrial phenomena. The magazine features a diverse range of articles, from surrealist art analysis to historical investigations of anomalous depictions.

Mysteries in Art, Symbols, and Dreams (Pages 3-12)

The issue opens with an exploration of surrealist art, defining it as a style that draws from the subconscious mind, bypassing rational thought. The precursor of surrealism, Breton, is quoted defining it as 'pure psychic automatism.' Salvador Dalí is highlighted as a prominent surrealist whose life and work were filled with 'special' chapters, reflecting his passions, frustrations, and political ideas. His work 'Caravana de Elefantes' (Caravan of Elephants) is discussed, with the elephants symbolizing strength, desire, the future, and domination, linked to Dalí's personal life and his desire to protect Gala.

The magazine also features the work of young Chilean surrealist artist Sing Wan Chong Li, whose art is presented as a collaboration with NOUFA. Her works, featuring elements like female bodies, skulls, circles, and metallic supports, are described as challenging and open to interpretation, prompting questions about their meaning and the artist's intent.

The article posits that art often presents unusual or unclassifiable works that have sparked controversy and varied interpretations over time. These include paintings with supposed UFOs, numerological messages, and subliminal messages from artists unable to express themselves freely in their historical contexts. The magazine aims to present a gallery of these images with brief explanations, encouraging personal interpretation from the reader.

Historical Art and Potential UFOs (Pages 5-10)

Several articles focus on historical artworks that are interpreted as potentially depicting UFOs or advanced technology.

• XV Century Tapestries (Page 5): Two tapestries from the 15th century, depicting the life of Mary, are shown to contain objects with a 'hat' shape, identified as 'The Magnificat' and another tapestry found in the Basilica of Notre-Dame in Beaune, Burgundy.
• "La Madonna de Saint Giovannino" (Page 6): This 15th-century painting by Domenico Ghirlandaio, located in the National Gallery, London, is presented with a strange flying object with flashes of light in the upper right corner. A man is depicted looking up at it, shielding his eyes. The article notes that while some interpret such depictions as the Holy Spirit, transfigured birds, or guardian angels, in modern times, they are often interpreted as UFOs.
• "La Anunciación" (Page 7): A painting by Carlo Crivelli (1430-1495) titled 'La Anunciación' (The Annunciation) from 1486, in the National Gallery, London, shows a discoidal object from which a ray of light emanates towards Mary's head.
• "El Milagro de la Nieve" (Page 7): This painting from 1428 by Masolino Da Panicale, located in the church of Santa María Maggiore, Florence, depicts Jesus and Mary on a strange lenticular artifact.
• 17th Century French Jeton (Page 7): A 17th-century French token with a superior circumference is discussed. While numismatists believe it represents Ezekiel's wheel, Marc Dantonio of MUFON suggests it is a military shield. The article notes that many interpret it as a UFO.
• "La Tebaide" (Page 8): A fragment from Paolo Ucello's painting 'Escenas de la vida monástica' (Scenes from monastic life) from around 1460 is analyzed. What appears to be a UFO is explained as the red hat of a cardinal, representing the rank of Saint Jerome of Stridon, with the 'propulsion trail' being its cords and tassels.
• "Exaltación de la eucaristía" (Page 9): This 1600 painting by Ventura Salimbeni, located in the church of San Lorenzo in San Pedro, Montalcino, Italy, is interpreted by some as an 'Oopart' (out-of-place artifact), suggesting the artist depicted the 'Sputnik I.' The article debunks this, explaining the spherical object with antennas as a representation of the 'globe of creation' with the sun and moon, and the 'antennas' as part of a scepter with a red cross.
• Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphs (Page 10): The monument dedicated to Osiris and other hieroglyphs are presented as potentially showing advanced technology, including aircraft, submarines, helicopters, and UFOs, according to ufologist Richard Hoagland.
• "El Bautismo de Cristo" (Page 10): This 17th-century painting shows discs in the sky emitting cosmic rays, presented as another example of unusual celestial objects in art.

Other Articles

• Strange Skeletons in London (Pages 13-17): An investigation into the discovery of strange skeletons in the basement of an old house in London.
• Science Fiction Story (Pages 18-22): A science fiction story by Benedicto Cerda, titled 'La leyenda de Don Camilo' (The Legend of Don Camilo).
• Disappearances (Pages 18-22): Several unexplained disappearances are mentioned: a child in Somosierra (Madrid), the crew of the yacht Yaz II off the Australian coast, and Baldovino Vargas and his son at Lake Llanquihue in 1982.
• Sects (Page 23): The article discusses the Amish extending their presence in South America.
• Ufology (Pages 24-31): This section includes an article titled 'El primer contacto alien no llegará hasta dentro de 1500 años' (The first alien contact will not arrive for another 1500 years). Spanish painter and sculptor Robert LLimos expresses his suspicion that aliens abducted his son.
• Live UFO Recording (Page 24-31): A live recording of a UFO in Punta Arenas is mentioned.
• Science (Pages 32-33): An article exploring the possibility of extravagant alien life on Titan.
• Breaking News (Pages 34-38): This section covers various historical and scientific news items, including the discovery of the first biblical Philistine cemetery in Israel, funerary paintings on ancient European megaliths, and evidence of monkeys using stone tools in America 700 years ago.
• Opinion (Page 39): 'El Sacapuntas de Julián Lenguaraz' (Julián Lenguaraz's Pencil Sharpener) offers opinions.
• Anomalous Curiosities (Page 40): Features 'La hermana Clelia Barbieri' (Sister Clelia Barbieri).
• UFOs in Chilean Life (Page 41): An article on the presence of UFOs in the lives of Chileans.
• Enigmatic Fish-Men (Pages 42-44): Discusses enigmatic fish-men in the waters of Cádiz, by Francisco Cabrera.
• Film Review (Page 45): A review of the 1977 Canadian film 'Starship Invasions.'
• Ufological Humor (Page 46): A section dedicated to humor related to ufology.
• God, Cantautor, and Poet (Page 47): Features Atahualpa Yupanqui.
• Religion and Islam (Pages 48-50): Explores 'The radio of El Corán in Marruecos' and questions about the Quran and Islamic religious police.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, the artistic, and the historical. There is a clear interest in presenting evidence and interpretations that challenge conventional understanding, particularly concerning UFOs and anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to form their own conclusions based on the presented information, even when the interpretations are controversial or speculative. The magazine aims to bridge the gap between art history, mythology, and ufology, suggesting that ancient art and cultural narratives may hold clues to extraterrestrial contact or advanced ancient civilizations. The inclusion of science fiction and humor indicates a broad approach to the topic of the unknown.

This issue of 'Comentarios' (Commentaries), identified as issue number 11 and dated 1942, published by NOUFA, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, art interpretations, and intriguing legends. The cover headline announces the discovery of strange skeletons in a London basement, setting a tone of mystery and the unusual.

Ancient Art and Potential UFOs

The issue begins by exploring how images resembling UFOs have appeared throughout the evolution of civilization. It presents several examples:

• Sighisoara Painting: A painting found in an old convent in Sighisoara, Romania, depicts a disk-shaped object with a plume of smoke flying over a house. The exact date of this painting is unknown, but the church it resides in was built in the 14th century.
• Tibetan Manuscript Image: An image from a 10th-century Tibetan translation of the 'Prajnaparamita Sutra' shows two objects resembling hats, one with holes, which are interpreted by some as similar to sombreros.
• 'The Crucifixion' Painting: A painting from 1350, located in the Altar of the Monastery of Decani in Kosovo, Yugoslavia, is noted for containing two objects with figures inside in the upper left section.
• Vimanas: The text references descriptions of 'Vimanas' in ancient Indian texts like the Vedas and the Ramayana, describing them as circular or cylindrical ships with multiple levels, holes, and domes, capable of flying at 'wind speed' and producing a 'melodious sound'.

The Cryptid Collection Merrylin

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the discovery of the Cryptid Collection Merrylin in London. In 2006, during the demolition of a building that was once an orphanage, hundreds of large boxes were found in a sealed basement. These boxes contained thousands of artifacts, strange specimens, and mysterious diaries belonging to Thomas Theodore Merrylin.

Thomas Theodore Merrylin, born in England in 1782, is described as a cryptonaturalist, alternative zoologist, and xenoarchaeologist. He was the son of a wealthy aristocrat and biologist and reportedly dedicated his life to collecting and studying specimens of unusual origin. The collection includes items like winged skeletons, skulls, and other bizarre curiosities. The narrative suggests that in 1942, a man claiming to be Merrylin donated a house to the Tunbridge Orphanage with the strict condition that the basement never be opened. This man appeared to be around 40 years old, despite Merrylin supposedly being much older.

The authenticity of the collection is questioned, with some suggesting it might be a hoax or an elaborate artistic project by Alex CF, who has gained recognition for his work. The collection is said to contain over 5,000 specimens and is being considered for a potential Merrylin Cryptid Museum in London.

Legends of Disappearance and Anomalies

The issue also explores several legends and accounts of unexplained disappearances and anomalies:

• Don Camilo Legend: This legend, reportedly circulating in Chile, tells of Don Camilo, a man from the town of Las Perdices, who disappeared one Sunday and reappeared 21 years later, looking exactly the same age as when he left, with no memory of his absence. His family had moved on, and his wife had aged significantly.
• The Somosierra Incident: This case details the disappearance of a child named Juan Pedro in 1986. A truck carrying sulfuric acid, driven by his parents, overturned on the Puerto de Somosierra in Spain. While the parents died in the accident, the child was never found at the scene, leading to speculation of a kidnapping.

Reflections on Art, Reality, and Technology

An article titled 'Comentarios' reflects on how art has served as a medium for expression throughout history, with artists capturing various aspects of life, including potentially unexplained phenomena. It questions why UFOs might not have been depicted more frequently, suggesting that modern interpretations might overlook the historical contexts and beliefs of artists.

Another section, 'Beneficios' (Benefits), presents a science fiction-like narrative set in 2037, where society grapples with stress-related deaths and the failure of artificial mechanisms to cope. It touches upon themes of societal control through technology, the introduction of chips, and the eventual rise of artificial intelligence and robots, leading to a potential conflict with humanity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the unexplained, the mysterious, and the fringes of accepted reality. There's a fascination with ancient accounts and art that might suggest non-human or advanced technological presence (UFOs, Vimanas), alongside modern-day mysteries like cryptid collections and unexplained disappearances. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting these phenomena and legends for the reader's consideration without necessarily endorsing them as fact, often highlighting the speculative nature of the evidence and the ongoing debate about authenticity, as seen with the Cryptid Collection Merrylin.

This issue of "Ufologia" (Issue 21) from June 25, 2016, published by ABC.es, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena, focusing on UFO sightings, mysterious disappearances, and the intersection of art and the unknown. The cover prominently features the headline "EL PRIMER CONTACTO ALIEN NO LLEGARA HASTA DENTRO DE 1.500 AÑOS" (The First Alien Contact Will Not Arrive for Another 1,500 Years), suggesting a scientific perspective on extraterrestrial life.

Mysterious Disappearances

The magazine presents several compelling cases of unexplained disappearances. One article details the strange case of Juan Pedro Martínez Gómez, a child who vanished under suspicious circumstances in Somosierra, Spain. The family's investigation suggests possible involvement of drug traffickers and a kidnapping, with the case being classified as one of the strangest in Europe by Interpol.

Another significant case is the disappearance of the yacht Kaz II in Australian waters near the Great Barrier Reef. The vessel was found adrift, perfectly intact, with the engine running and the table set for a meal, but devoid of its three crew members. Authorities are perplexed by the incident, which bears similarities to the legendary Mary Celeste case.

In Chile, the disappearance of artisanal fisherman Baldovino Vargas and his son Juan Carlos from Lago Llanquihue in 1978 is recounted. Vargas had previously reported witnessing a UFO, and his son Gabriel later claimed they were "abducted by the Ovnis del Llanquihue."

Art and Extraterrestrial Encounters

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to the artist Robert Llimós. In an interview with La Vanguardia de Barcelona, Llimós, a painter and sculptor, shares his belief that extraterrestrials abducted his son, Marc, and that he himself has had direct encounters with alien beings. He describes seeing UFOs and beings with scaly, greenish skin and large eyes in Fortaleza, Brazil, in 2009. These experiences have profoundly influenced his art, leading him to create works depicting these entities. Llimós notes that his new artistic direction has not been commercially successful, with galleries hesitant to exhibit his alien-themed pieces. He also discusses his belief that aliens want humanity to stop destroying the planet and that they are revealing themselves gradually due to humanity's primitive and violent nature.

Scientific Perspectives on Alien Life

An article titled "EL PRIMER CONTACTO ALIEN NO LLEGARA HASTA DENTRO DE 1.500 AÑOS" explores the Fermi Paradox and the principle of mediocrity. Scientists from Cornell University propose that it will take approximately 1,500 years for humanity's signals to reach the halfway point of the Milky Way, making it seem as though we are alone, even if we are not. The article highlights the vastness of the universe and the challenges of interstellar communication, suggesting that extraterrestrials might find Earth's broadcasts undecipherable.

Other Topics

The magazine also touches upon the expansion of Amish communities in South America, with new colonies established in Bolivia, Argentina, and Canada. It notes a growing membership and a high retention rate among young people. Additionally, a brief report details the recording of a UFO in Punta Arenas, Chile, in 2014, with three videos capturing an object described as irregular in movement and changing colors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery surrounding unexplained disappearances, the possibility of extraterrestrial life and contact, and the impact of alleged encounters on art and personal lives. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various cases and scientific theories without necessarily endorsing any single explanation. The magazine encourages readers to consider different perspectives, from personal testimonies of alien encounters to scientific discussions on the likelihood of life beyond Earth.

This issue of "Flash" magazine, dated July 30, 1968, presents a diverse range of articles covering unexplained phenomena, scientific exploration, historical discoveries, and archaeological findings.

UAP Sighting in Punta Arenas

The magazine reports on a UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon) sighting in Punta Arenas, Chile, documented by Ramón Galindo. Galindo filmed three videos showing a sphere-like object repeatedly crossing the sky in front of a house. The object exhibited erratic movements, changed shape, and altered its color, appearing to be aware of being filmed. The article notes that the individuals who filmed the object were trusted neighbors celebrating a birthday, with no ulterior motives.

The Possibility of Extraterrestrial Life on Titan

An article titled "UNA VIDA ALIENÍGENA EXTRAVAGANTE ES POSIBLE EN TITÁN" (An Extravagant Alien Life is Possible on Titan) explores the scientific possibility of life on Saturn's moon, Titan. Researchers from Cornell University, using data from the Cassini and Huygens missions, suggest that Titan's dense, nitrogen-rich atmosphere, along with its lakes and oceans of methane and ethane, could harbor organic molecules crucial for the origin of life. Martin Rahm, director of the study, highlights that life on Titan could be vastly different from terrestrial life, potentially not requiring water or being carbon-based. The article discusses the formation of hydrogen cyanide molecules from the interaction of solar rays with Titan's atmosphere, which can then form polymers called "poliminas." These poliminas could be flexible and absorb solar radiation, acting as catalysts for life. While poliminas have not yet been detected, their potential existence is a significant finding for astrobiology. The article also touches upon the unique characteristics of Titan as the only place in the Solar System besides Earth with a substantial atmosphere and stable surface liquid.

The Recovery of Christopher Columbus's Letter

Under the headline "BREAKING NEWS: LA CARTA ROBADA DE COLÓN APARECIÓ, SIN SABER CÓMO, EN LA BIBLIOTECA DEL CONGRESO DE EE.UU." (BREAKING NEWS: COLUMBUS'S STOLEN LETTER APPEARED, UNKNOWN HOW, IN THE US CONGRESS LIBRARY), the magazine details the complex story of a stolen letter by Christopher Columbus. The letter, printed in Latin in Rome in 1493 by Stephan Plannck, announced the discovery of America. It was stolen from the Riccardiana Library in Florence and replaced with a sophisticated forgery. The document, originally part of a volume of 42 incunables, was eventually found in Switzerland in 1990 and sold in 1992. In 2004, it was donated to the Library of Congress in Washington, where it is valued at least one million euros. The article clarifies that this is not the original Spanish text but a Latin translation. The recovery involved Italian Carabinieri and US Homeland Security, with Minister of Cultural Heritage Dario Franceschini announcing its return to Florence. The investigation revealed that other document thefts had occurred, and the authenticity of the recovered letter was confirmed.

First Philistine Cemetery Discovered in Israel

"HALLADO EN ISRAEL EL PRIMER CEMENTERIO DE LOS BÍBLICOS FILISTEOS" (FIRST PHILISTINE CEMETERY FOUND IN ISRAEL) reports on the discovery of the first Philistine cemetery in Ashkelon, Israel. Dated around 3,000 years ago, the site provides insights into the unknown origins and customs of the Philistine people. The cemetery contains the remains of 210 individuals, buried with objects like jewelry and pottery. While inscriptions are rare, symbolic markings and pottery shards with early Philistine language have been found. The burial practices differ from those of Canaanite and Israelite peoples. The study of the DNA from the bones is expected to clarify the origins of the Philistines and their health and habits. Ashkelon itself is described as a civilized settlement that became an important stop on trade routes.

Painted Decorations on European Megaliths

An article titled "PINTURAS FUNERARIAS DECORABAN LOS MEGALITOS MÁS ANTIGUOS DE EUROPA" (FUNERARY PAINTINGS DECORATED EUROPE'S OLDEST MEGALITHS) discusses research by investigators from UNED and the University of Alcalá de Henares on megalithic sites in Brittany. The study analyzed pigments used in these ancient structures, revealing the presence of common rock art pigments like hematite and manganese oxides. The findings suggest that painted decoration in funerary chambers was a widespread practice during the Neolithic period, challenging the previous belief that it was exclusive to the Mediterranean region. The research also identified traces of modern synthetic materials, likely from conservation techniques. The complexity of the ideological and symbolic world of these ancient cultures is highlighted, along with the possibility of cultural connections across geographically distant human groups.

Monks Used Stone Tools 700 Years Ago in America

"LOS MONOS YA USABAN HERRAMIENTAS DE PIEDRA HACE 700 AÑOS EN AMÉRICA" (MONKEYS ALREADY USED STONE TOOLS 700 YEARS AGO IN AMERICA) reports on the discovery of evidence that capuchin monkeys in Brazil used stone tools to break open nuts at least 700 years ago. This is the oldest evidence of such behavior found outside of Africa. Researchers from Oxford and the University of São Paulo found that these monkeys select specific stones for different tasks and have specific work areas. The study suggests that this behavior may have been learned socially and could have existed for a very long time. The article also touches upon the evolutionary divergence of monkeys and humans, with monkeys continuing to use similar materials and dimensions for their tools, while human technology has advanced significantly.

Hillary Clinton's "Dark Agenda"

In the "SECTOR DE OPINIONES" (OPINIONS SECTION), Salvador Freixedo writes a critical piece titled "HILARY Y SU OSCURA AGENDA" (HILLARY AND HER DARK AGENDA). Freixedo expresses skepticism about Hillary Clinton fulfilling promises regarding UFOs and criticizes her as a negative figure, comparing her to Kissinger. He presents a sonnet accusing her and her husband of corruption and immoral actions.

The Mysterious Voice of Sister Clelia

Under "CURIOSIDADES ANOMALAS" (ANOMALOUS CURIOSITIES), the magazine recounts the story of Sister Clelia Barbieri, founder of the Order of the Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Succor, who died in 1870. Despite her death, her voice is reportedly heard by nuns worldwide. The voice is said to be either sweet and affectionate, signaling good news, or grave and somber, portending bad news. A notable incident occurred in 1929 when her grave voice was heard just before a major earthquake in Italy. The Catholic Church is studying her beatification process.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores topics related to the unexplained, scientific frontiers, historical mysteries, and archaeological discoveries. There is a clear interest in phenomena that challenge conventional understanding, from UAP sightings to the potential for extraterrestrial life and ancient human practices. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a desire to present diverse perspectives, including scientific research, historical accounts, and even critical opinions on political figures. The inclusion of a section on "El Sacapuntas" (The Pencil Sharpener) by Julián Lenguaraz suggests a commentary on intellectual property and ethical considerations in media, as Lenguaraz criticizes a TV presenter for not citing sources.

This issue of RITMO magazine, identified as number 376 and dated April 1993, focuses on a variety of intriguing topics, including the presence of UFOs in Chilean culture, historical legends, and the role of religion in contemporary society. The magazine presents itself as a platform for exploring phenomena and cultural narratives that resonate with its readership.

Los Ovnis en la Vida de los Chilenos

The lead article, "LOS OVNIS EN LA VIDA DE LOS CHILENOS" (UFOs in the Lives of Chileans), explores the cultural impact of UFO phenomena in Chile between 1965 and 1975. According to a doctoral thesis from the University of Chile, RITMO magazine, read by half a million young Chileans, was a seemingly innocent publication that nonetheless reflected the era's historical context. This period was marked by significant social and political changes, including the Cuban revolution, the rise of rock and roll, the assassination of John F. Kennedy, the Beatles, agrarian reform, the contraceptive pill, the miniskirt, Woodstock, student revolts in Paris, and the rise of the Unidad Popular in Chile. The article notes that even RITMO, in its issue number 376, addressed the topic of flying saucers, featuring them on its cover alongside Spanish singers Víctor Manuel and Ana Belén, indicating how unidentified phenomena were becoming integrated into popular culture.

Enigmáticos Hombres-Pez en las Aguas de Cádiz

Authored by Francisco Cabrera, this section delves into the enigmatic legends of 'men-fish' in the waters of Cádiz, Spain. The article highlights Cádiz's rich history, filled with archaeological finds and significant events, but also points to lesser-known "enigmatic events" that border on legend. These stories, often overlooked in historical records, include the historical legend of the man-fish, a being described as half-mythical, half-real, sighted by fishermen in the bay. The text references historian Pliny the Elder's account of a "sea man" with a human body sighted in the Gaditanian ocean, and a similar story from M. Larrei's History of England about a merman caught in 1187 and presented to the Governor of Oxford. The article then focuses on the most documented case: the man-fish of Liérganes. It recounts the story of Francisco de la Vega, who disappeared in the Nervión river in Bilbao in 1674. Years later, in 1679, fishermen in Cádiz captured a creature resembling a man who submerged willingly and ate offered bread. This being was taken to the convent of San Francisco, where, after days of silence, it uttered the word "Liérganes." Investigations revealed that Francisco, son of María del Casar, had disappeared in Bilbao years prior. He was eventually reunited with his mother in Liérganes, but remained emotionally detached, living in his mother's house for nine years before disappearing again. The article notes that a statue in Liérganes commemorates this legend, and describes Francisco as being about six feet tall, well-formed, with short red hair, worn nails, and always barefoot, possibly having scales that eventually fell off.

Cine de Ciencia Ficción - Año 1977

This section reviews the science fiction film "Starship Invasions," released in 1977. The film, directed by Ed Hunt, stars Robert Vaughn and Christopher Lee. The plot involves Captain Ramses attempting to invade Earth to save his dying race, but being warned by another alien civilization. Ramses then initiates a telepathic invasion, compelling Earthlings to commit suicide, until an UFO expert allies with the 'good guys' to repel the invaders. The review notes that the film's beginning is based on the incident involving farmer Antonio Villas Boas on October 15, 1957, near Sao Francisco de Sales, Brazil. While some moments are considered almost laughable, the film offers an enigmatic charm appreciated by UFO enthusiasts.

Humor Ufológico

A collection of humorous cartoons related to UFOs and alien encounters. One cartoon depicts a child telling their mother that a UFO took their father, to which the mother replies not to worry as he'll be back tomorrow, as they were looking for intelligent life. Another cartoon shows aliens discussing their religions, with one stating, "My religion is better than yours." A third cartoon humorously illustrates how E.T. might have achieved his long neck.

Preguntitas Sobre Dios

This section features a poem by Argentine singer and poet Atahualpa Yupanqui, whose real name was Héctor Roberto Chavero. The poem, titled "Preguntitas Sobre Dios" (Little Questions About God), reflects on the nature of God through personal inquiries to family members and observations about life, labor, and faith. The poem touches on themes of loss, the hardships of miners and lumberjacks, and the perceived indifference of God to the suffering of the poor. It concludes with the idea that one should not ask about God if one's own house has not been visited by such an important figure. Yupanqui is recognized as a significant figure in Argentine folklore, and in 1986, he was honored by France as a Chevalier of the Order of Arts and Letters.

La Radio del Corán Reina en las Mañanas de Marruecos

This article discusses the significant influence of "Radio Corán" in Morocco, an Islamic radio station funded by the state to promote a moderate version of Islam, particularly after the 2003 Casablanca terrorist attacks. The report highlights that radio is a popular medium in Morocco, with 56% of the population listening regularly. Radio Corán, owned by the state, holds the top audience share at 20%, significantly ahead of other stations. The initiative is part of a broader "religious field reform" aimed at structuring Moroccan Islam under state control. The station, founded in 2004, has consistently ranked first in audience ratings since 2011. Its success is attributed to the state's ability to disseminate its message and the Moroccan people's affinity for Islam, despite the station's exclusion of extremist Salafist views and the Sufi movement Justice and Spirituality. The article quotes a radio journalist, R.H., who notes that while many listeners may not have strong religious commitments, Moroccan society is generally conservative. Another journalist, Idris Tekki, explains that Radio Corán was launched to counter radical messages from Saudi Arabian satellite TV channels that emerged in the late 1990s. The station is particularly popular among adults, with younger audiences preferring private music stations. It also reaches housewives seeking religious education and individuals who may be unfamiliar with Islam, including those who have joined groups like the Islamic State. The article includes testimonials from listeners like Jalima, a domestic worker in Rabat, who finds guidance on prayer and dress, and journalist Tekki, who values the morning recitation of the Quran for its calming effect. The article also briefly mentions Assadissa (La Sexta), a public TV channel that also features Quranic programming but with a smaller audience.

¿Existe el Islam Moderado?

This section questions the concept of "moderate Islamists," suggesting they are part of the problem rather than a solution. It draws a parallel between Islamist terrorists and Basque nationalist terrorists, arguing that both are based on beliefs and sentiments, not reason, and pursue political agendas. The author challenges the notion that moderate believers hold the key to global peace, suggesting that true peace requires tolerance of different beliefs, even those based on myths. The text criticizes the idea that moderates prevent critical or humorous commentary on their literal interpretations and seek special privileges. It contrasts this with Europe, where religious conflicts have ceased not due to increased tolerance, but due to a decline in the importance of religious dogma in modern society. The author suggests that for the West and Islam to coexist, Muslims may need to learn to overlook parts of their doctrine, similar to how Christians have.

La Policía Religiosa Islámica

This article describes the role of the Islamic religious police, often referred to as "Sharia Police," in certain Islamic states. Their primary function is to enforce Islamic law, prevent vice, and promote virtue. Based on the Quran, this police force aims to uphold divine principles and prevent anarchy. Their duties include monitoring behavior, detaining individuals cohabiting outside of marriage, confiscating items deemed contrary to Islam (like Barbie dolls or Western music), enforcing dietary laws (prohibiting alcohol and pork), and preventing conversion from Islam, which is punishable by death. Missionaries face deportation. The police also combat homosexuality and prostitution and ensure commercial establishments close during prayer times. The article is attributed to Lic. Javier Gamero Kinosita.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine RITMO, in this issue, demonstrates a broad interest in phenomena that lie outside conventional scientific or societal norms, including UFOs and historical legends. There is a clear engagement with contemporary social and religious issues, particularly concerning Islam, its interpretation, and its role in society, as evidenced by the detailed discussion on Radio Corán and the questioning of "moderate Islam." The magazine also incorporates elements of humor and cultural commentary, such as the film review and the ufological cartoons. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into diverse subjects, from the unexplained to the socio-religious landscape, without necessarily endorsing any single viewpoint, but rather presenting information and perspectives for the reader's consideration. The inclusion of a poem by Atahualpa Yupanqui adds a layer of artistic and philosophical reflection on faith and human experience.