Quest - Vol 3 No 6

Magazine Overview

Title: QUEST
Issue: VOL. THREE NO. SIX (WHOLE NO. 19)
Date: JULY-AUG., 1972
Price: 50¢

This issue of QUEST magazine, published in July-August 1972, features a diverse range of articles, including historical investigations, paranormal phenomena, social issues, and entertainment reviews.

Articles

The Real Dracula

The cover story, "THE REAL DRACULA IS BELIEVED TO BE THE SUBJECT OF THIS PORTRAIT," introduces Prince Dracula as a 15th-century Romanian prince who killed approximately 100,000 people. Boston College historians Dr. Radu Florescu and Dr. Raymond McNally spent four years researching the origins of the Dracula myth. They found evidence of a flesh-and-blood Dracula whose real exploits were more horrific than the vampire legends. They discovered Dracula's portrait in Castle Ambras near Innsbruck, Austria, and Castle Dracula atop a 300-foot precipice in Wallachia. The article details Dracula's brutal methods, including impalement and burning victims alive. The historians' research is to be published in a book in February.

Vampirism: Fact or Fiction

Written by Kurt Glemser, this article explores the origins and evolution of vampirism in folklore and fiction. It notes that while the concept of vampires is largely fictional, elements have been drawn from folklore, such as pale skin, thinness, and sharp teeth. The ability of vampires to transform into animals, like cats, dogs, or owls, is mentioned. The article connects the vampire bat of South America to the modern conception of vampires. It also discusses legendary ways men can become vampires, such as dying in a state of sin or being excommunicated. The piece touches on the historical practice of premature burial and how a 'vampire' might be discovered if they survived.

Other People and a Few More

This section by Dennis Staney presents several anecdotes and observations. It references Erich von Daniken's "Chariots of the Gods" and an ancient Roman painting depicting a 'rocket.' It also mentions 'ape-things' and hairy giants reported in Argentina, along with a cigar-shaped craft landing and leaving tracks. The article recounts an incident in Marshall, Michigan, where two men were carried by an ape-like thing. It also touches on legends of a 'undead satan-like creature' at Karl Marx's grave in Highgate Cemetery, London, and a 'gigantic vampire' terrorizing the population in Argentina, with reports of domestic fowls having their blood sucked. The piece notes that vampire bats exhibit similar blood-drinking behavior.

Solving the Heroin Problem

This article addresses the significant issue of heroin addiction in the United States. Citing a TIME magazine estimate from January 1970, it states there are 180,000 heroin addicts, with one in every 80 persons in New York City being an addict. The economic impact is substantial, with American citizens losing upwards of one billion dollars annually due to heroin-related crimes. The article suggests that making heroin medically legal, prescribed by a doctor to certified addicts, could be a solution. This would theoretically reduce crime, eliminate the need for addicts to support their habit through illegal means, and cut profits for criminals and the underworld.

Welsh Vampire Must End Blood Drinking

A brief news report from Ruthin, Wales, details a court case where a local farm worker, Alan Dyche, was fined for staging black magic ceremonies, killing animals, and drinking their blood. He was warned to stop and placed on probation.

Tina's Travelling Sex Show

Written by Phil Symes, this article reviews the Ike and Tina Turner Revue, describing it as "Soul Sister Tina's Travelling Sex Show." The review highlights Tina Turner's energetic performance, her provocative stage presence, and the band's musical talent. It notes that while Tina and the Ikettes deny sex is central to their act, their costumes and performance suggest otherwise. The article also praises Ike Turner's role as the band's manager, arranger, and guitarist, describing him as "Stone Face" and a shrewd businessman. The piece concludes by suggesting that Ike and Tina Turner are on an upward trajectory in their careers.

Image: Madeleine Smith

This section features Madeleine Smith, described as "Britain's top dolly bird." The article notes her desire to be a "proper actress" and her frustration with being perceived solely for her physical appearance. She discusses her experiences with superficial relationships in the entertainment industry and her role in the BBC's new serial, "Clochemerle."

Can One Million People Be Wrong?

This is Part Two of an article by Bruce Sandham, continuing the discussion on UFO sightings. It begins with an account from Mrs. Gloria Bomford, who reported seeing a saucer-shaped object with her children. The article states that in the past five years, over 200,000 people have claimed to have seen unidentified flying objects, and in 25 years, at least a million sightings have been claimed. While 70% are dismissed as hoaxes or misunderstandings, and another 25% are explained by further investigation, 5% remain unexplained. The article mentions the hazards faced by those who report sightings, including ridicule and professional repercussions. It includes statements from Dr. Allen Hynek, who believes a phenomenon exists and calls for renewed vigilance, and mentions ongoing UFO research in Russia despite official denials. It also presents specific sighting accounts, including one from Ogre, Latvia, and a case in Bogota, Colombia, where a witness died of an illness possibly related to radiation. The article concludes by questioning whether all such reports can be dismissed as the work of cranks and hoaxers.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the unexplained, the paranormal, and the controversial. There's a clear interest in historical mysteries (Dracula), unexplained phenomena (UFOs), and fringe science. The articles on vampirism and UFOs suggest an open-minded approach to phenomena that defy conventional explanation, while the piece on heroin addiction reflects a concern for societal issues. The review of Tina Turner's show indicates an interest in popular culture and entertainment. The editorial stance appears to be one of investigation and open inquiry into subjects that challenge mainstream understanding, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond the ordinary.

Title: The Saucers Return
Issue Date: October 7, 1971
Publisher: Bristol Evening News
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of "The Saucers Return" delves into a variety of intriguing and often unsettling topics, ranging from potential extraterrestrial signals to local folklore and the rise of occult practices.

Signals from Outer Space

The lead article, "Signals from Outer Space," investigates a series of powerful radio waves emanating from a point in space designated W-3. Researchers at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, are taking these signals seriously, as they are too powerful to be from a natural source. The theory gaining traction is that these signals might be from an intelligent extraterrestrial civilization, possibly using remote-controlled probes or robots rather than living beings due to the vast distances involved. This phenomenon coincides with an increase in alleged sightings of unidentified flying objects (UFOs). The article cites Dr. James McDonald, who refers to these objects as 'probes,' and physicist Dr. Derwent Mercer, who suggests that advanced civilizations would logically send robotic craft. Radio waves, traveling at the speed of light, are considered the best method for controlling such craft. The signals from W-3 exhibit characteristics typical of microwave amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (MASER). Further observations suggest the signals originate from five separate sources, forming an 'omega' shape, which the article notes also means 'the last' in Greek. The behavior of alleged UFOs, such as police radios being jammed during sightings, is presented as evidence supporting the remote-control theory. An example from Japan describes an object tracked at extreme speed variations, suggesting it's not piloted by humans. The article quotes Arthur C. Clarke on the uniqueness of our world and Dr. Carl Sagan's warning that humanity must be prepared to face the probability of having already been investigated by intelligent beings.

UFO Sightings Reported Through Area

This section reports on various UFO sightings in Illinois. Mrs. John Wyatt of Kincaid described a large, domelike object with green and blue fire shooting from its edges, which hovered for about an hour. The incident was reported to county authorities and the state police. Similar sightings were reported from several locations in the area, including Bulpitt, Jacksonville, Waverly, and Talloula, with six state police troopers involved in the investigation. The object was estimated to be between 300 and 3,000 feet in the air.

Goatman: A New Horror Story

This article by Ivan G. Goldman explores the legend of 'Goatman' in Prince George's County, Maryland. The story recounts the discovery of the decapitated head of a dog named Ginger, leading to renewed interest in the local folklore. Goatman is described as a creature about the size of a man, covered in fur, walking on hind legs, and possessing a man's face. Some stories depict him with a man's upper body and a goat's lower body. The legend is said to have originated from a scientist who experimented on goats, or alternatively, as a madman living in the forest. The county police acknowledge receiving calls about Goatman but offer no solutions, attributing the legend's persistence to people in rural areas with limited education passing down stories. The article also mentions a specific incident where teenagers reported seeing a form on top of a pickup truck, which then disappeared into the woods.

Uncracked Problem: The Egg

This short piece describes an unusually large egg, 11 inches long, on display at the Western Australian Museum in Perth. Found in 1930 near Nannup, Australia, the egg is too large to be from an emu and is attributed to the extinct aepyornis bird, which is known to have lived only in Madagascar.

Vicars, White Witches Upset: Devil Worship is Latest British Fad

This article reports on the spread of black magic and devil worship in Britain, causing concern among village vicars and 'white' witches. Eleanor Bone, a 'white' witch, states that her spells are for good purposes and that amateur dabbling in the black arts is giving witchcraft a bad name. Church of England spokesmen express fear over the growing popularity of the occult, particularly among young people. The article lists bizarre events linked to the black magic craze, including the theft of a child's body from a grave, a suicide after a hex, and a murder case involving a letter with 'Hail Satan.' Rev. Tom Willis notes that priests are increasingly having to 'cast out devils and evil spirits.' The article also mentions con men exploiting interest in the occult, citing a case of a 'faith healer' who defrauded women. It touches on the perverted church services conducted by some black magic groups and the booming sales at psychic bookshops.

UFO Riddle: Cloud Theory 'Rubbish'

Dr. David Carrick, a former RAF fighter pilot, challenges the official explanation of a UFO sighting on Tuesday night. The Glasgow Weather Centre stated the 'Thing in the sky' was a fluorescent chemical cloud ejected by a meteorological research rocket. Dr. Carrick, however, describes seeing a bright light that moved rapidly, became hazy, and developed a round or elliptical shape. He asserts that the object's movements did not correspond with cloud behavior and that it was unlike anything he had seen before, alarming his family.

Telepathic Gift Credited to Seer

This section recounts an event involving Emanuel Swedenborg, a famous philosopher. In 1759, while traveling from London to Stockholm, Swedenborg reportedly became pale and alarmed at a party in Gothenburg, stating that a dangerous fire had broken out in Stockholm and was spreading rapidly. He accurately described the fire's proximity to his own home. Days later, a messenger confirmed the fire had indeed been stopped a few doors from Swedenborg's home, despite the lack of modern communication methods at the time.

Good Witch Used to Drive Out Bad

This article describes a case in Willimantic, Connecticut, where a woman, identified as Mrs. A, claimed under hypnosis to have been a witch burned at the stake in 1639. Ghost chaser Edward Warren and his wife Lorraine, psychic investigators, were called in. They enlisted the help of 'good witch' Zia Rose and her coven to perform a ritual to drive out the 'bad' influences. The ritual involved a magic circle, incense, and special amulets. Mrs. A reported feeling dizzy after the ceremony, and Zia expressed satisfaction, warning that the ritual was dangerous and required pure intent.

Letters

The letters section includes correspondence from readers. One letter from "June" describes a Commander who seemed to 'project himself astrally' and showed interest in the magazine 'Quest.' Another letter from a "Name Withheld" expresses dismay at the magazine's marijuana article, arguing that it should present both pro and con arguments. The writer believes marijuana creates an illusion of well-being and that the issue is the psychological need for it, suggesting users need a headshrinker rather than drugs. The writer also argues that drug articles belong in medical journals and that the publication of such articles should consider the younger readership. A third letter, from "K.G.G.," responds to the marijuana article, stating that marijuana is not physically addictive and does not create a psychological need. The writer argues that current laws against marijuana are too strict and cause more damage than the drug itself. The letter also mentions a study indicating that a small percentage of pot users had experimented with heroin, opium, or morphine but were not addicted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the investigation of unexplained phenomena such as UFOs and mysterious signals, the exploration of folklore and legends (Goatman), and the growing interest in the occult, including witchcraft and devil worship. There is also a focus on the potential for intelligent life beyond Earth and the challenges of scientific investigation. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, presenting various theories and reports, while also acknowledging skepticism and the need for evidence. The letters section highlights reader engagement and differing viewpoints on controversial topics like marijuana use, indicating a willingness to publish diverse opinions.