The Researcher - No 07 - Vol 2 No 3 - Autumn Winter 1999

Magazine Overview

Title: THE RESEARCHER
Issue: Vol. 2 Issue 3
Date: Autumn/Winter 1999
Publisher: Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA)

This issue of The Researcher, a publication of the Merseyside Anomalies Research Association, focuses on UFOs and paranormal phenomena, with a strong emphasis on practical advice and detailed case studies. The cover features a striking image of a potential UFO and highlights the lead article, "How to Video a UFO."

Editorial: The Voice

In his editorial, "The Voice," Bill Bimson, the editor, apologizes for delays in publication, attributing them to late-arriving articles. He announces upcoming features, including the third part of Tony Eccles' article on media treatment of UFOs and an interview with Larry Warren about his experiences in Rendlesham Forest. Bimson introduces two guest writers from the USA: Ivanhoe Chaput, president of CC Design & Development Inc., who provides advice on videoing UFOs, and Bill Hamilton, director of Skywatch International, who discusses his theories and UFO events in Sedona, Arizona. Bimson notes the prevalence of "Flying Triangle" sightings globally during the summer of 1999 and expresses skepticism about "millennium bug" predictions, forecasting a relatively anticlimactic New Year's Eve.

Articles and Features

How to Video a UFO

By Ivanhoe Chaput, president of CC Design & Development Inc., this article addresses the challenge of authenticating UFO footage in an era of advanced computer animation. Chaput offers practical advice to help video analysts distinguish real footage from hoaxes. Key recommendations include:

1. Zooming: Using zoom increases and decreases image size and perspective, allowing analysts to extrapolate relative distances and identify potential computer model insertions.
2. Camera Movements: Panning to include closer objects forces the camera's autofocus to adjust, which is difficult to fake convincingly. Panning back to the UFO helps establish its distance.
3. Occlusion: Briefly moving the camera behind an object that partially obscures the UFO adds credibility, as it's harder to fake a scenario where the camera momentarily loses sight of the object.
4. Movement: Taping while moving, such as walking or driving, creates background motion that helps establish the object's relative distance and is challenging to replicate with computer animation.

Chaput also discusses the technical aspects of video cameras, particularly their low-light capabilities (lux rating). He explains that while a low lux rating is important for general low-light photography, filming UFOs against a dark sky presents unique challenges. He provides formulas to calculate lux capability based on lens aperture, exposure time, and ISO speed, noting that video cameras have different rules due to dynamic "film speed." He advises setting focus to manual and infinity for distant objects to avoid blooming and pixel bleed. The article emphasizes that while higher lux ratings can produce grainier images, the overall quality of the camera, including its CCD chip and lens, is paramount.

The Ranch on the Edge of Forever

By William Hamilton, this extensive article details investigations into anomalous phenomena in Sedona, Arizona, a region known for its New Age culture and reported UFO activity. Hamilton describes the area's striking red cliffs and the concept of Sedona's vortices. The article focuses on the experiences of investigators, including Tom Dongo, who have documented UFO sightings, strange lights, and a possible military presence in canyons like Long, Boynton, and Secret Canyons.

A significant portion of the article is dedicated to the "Bradshaw Ranch," owned by Bob and Linda Bradshaw. The author, along with his wife Pamela, visited the ranch and documented numerous unusual occurrences. These included:

• Unexplained Lights: Randomly laced trails of varicoloured light, hovering orbs, and light streaks were observed and photographed.
• Mysterious Craft: A large boomerang-shaped object with an unusual flight attitude was sighted.
• Unmarked Helicopters: Strange, olive-drab helicopters were observed operating in the canyons.
• Humanoid Encounters: Linda Bradshaw reported seeing a creature resembling a "gray alien" and a small humanoid in a brown suit.
• Photographic Anomalies: Photos taken at the ranch revealed inexplicable light phenomena, including orbs and structured objects, some of which were not visible to the naked eye.
• The "Gateway Window": A particularly intriguing phenomenon involved a photograph that appeared to show a window or gateway into another world, with a structure resembling a telephone pole and a dark oval object.
• Physical Traces: Unusual tracks, including three-toed prints resembling those of bigfoot and large birds or small dinosaurs, were found on the property.
• Sparkling Energy: A phenomenon described as "sparkling energy" in the air was observed when a camera flash illuminated dust particles.

Hamilton discusses the nature of orbs, suggesting they might be hyper-dimensional objects capable of passing through solid barriers. He theorizes that these objects may operate on a frequency dimension rather than an extra-spatial one. The article highlights the consistent reporting of these phenomena by witnesses and the accumulation of anomalous photographic evidence.

Other Articles and Sections

• Bolide Over Allerton and Formation of Lights Over New Ferry by Tony Eccles (pages 12) - These articles likely detail specific sightings or events.
• Chasing Shadows, Psychic Health and Safety, and Visions of Another World (book review) by Julie Boyd (pages 14, 17, 37) - These contributions cover various aspects of the paranormal and include a book review.
• Haunted Roads on The Isle of Man: Route 666 (part two) by John Hall (page 25) - This is a continuation of a series exploring local legends and paranormal occurrences.
• Are We Ready? by Sue McAllister (page 33) - A piece likely addressing preparedness for anomalous events.
• A Personal View of the Solar Eclipse by Julie Boyd (page 35) - A personal reflection on a celestial event.
• Song of The Greys (book review) by Bill McGarry (page 36) - A review of a book likely related to alien encounters.
• The MARA Trip to York. June 1999 by Julie Boyd and Bill Bimson (page 38) - An account of a group excursion.
• Lucifer: The Arch-Enemy or Mans Best Friend? by Robert Blackstone (page 41) - A more philosophical or theological exploration.
• Leys: An Untapped Energy Resource by Peter Tiernan (page 44) - An article on earth energies and ley lines.
• About the Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (page 46) - Information about the organization.
• MARA membership application form (page 47)
• Psi-man says.. by Colin Veacock (page 48) - A regular column, likely humorous or opinion-based.

Your Letters

This section features correspondence from readers. One letter from Sue McAllister highlights her personal experiences with UFOs and paranormal phenomena in Halewood, Merseyside, and discusses Jenny Randles and Peter Hough's book "Mysteries of the Mersey Valley." She poses the question of whether the Mersey Valley is a gateway to supernatural activity or another dimension, noting Runcorn as a hotspot for UFO sightings. She also mentions experiencing the "Humadruzz" noise, possibly related to geological fault lines.

Contributors

The issue acknowledges contributions from various authors, illustrators, research consultants (Dr. Steven Verner Weaver and Dr. Carl Williams), proofreader (Eileen Shaw), and printing/production staff (John Hall). It also thanks readers for their support.

Copyright and Disclaimer

The publication is copyrighted by M.A.R.A. in 1999. It states that no part of the publication may be reproduced or distributed without prior written permission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the analysis of photographic and video evidence, and the exploration of paranormal phenomena in specific geographical locations, particularly Sedona, Arizona, and the Mersey Valley. The editorial stance, as indicated by Bill Bimson, is open-minded yet critical, encouraging the sharing of experiences while emphasizing the need for careful interpretation and avoiding sensationalism. The magazine aims to provide a platform for discussion and investigation into anomalous events, offering practical advice alongside detailed case studies and personal accounts. There is a clear interest in the scientific and technical aspects of UFO investigation, as seen in the article on videoing UFOs, alongside a willingness to explore more speculative theories regarding dimensional physics and earth energies.

Title: The Researcher
Issue: 11
Volume: 1
Date: 1999
Publisher: Skywatch International, Inc.
Country: USA
Language: English

This issue of The Researcher delves into a variety of paranormal and UFO-related topics, exploring theories of extra-dimensional realities, analyzing specific case studies, and offering guidance on psychic health and safety for investigators.

Articles and Features

The Nature of Reality and Extra-Dimensional Space

The lead article, attributed to Bill Hamilton, Executive Director of Skywatch International, Inc., posits that phenomena like 'glittering particles' observed in the atmosphere could be caused by radiation from another dimension. This suggests that our understanding of physical reality might be limited to only one frequency dimension. The article draws parallels to ball lightning, noting its unusual materialisation and behaviour, and proposes that parallel realities might exist not just in spatial dimensions but also in temporal or energy axes. It highlights the potential for other worlds and beings to exist in nearby extra-dimensional spaces, rather than solely in distant galaxies. The author mentions a conversation with an informant named Charlie, who spoke of objects disappearing from Earth and UFOs originating from other space-time dimensions, possibly using 'transpatial resonators' to open portals between dimensions. This leads to a contemplation of the vast number of potential universes.

Bolide over Allerton

Authored by Anthony Eccles, this section details a case investigated by the Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA). Eileen Shaw interviewed a witness, Mrs. G., who reported seeing an unusual, iridescent, and wobbling object described as 'larger than a plane' on the evening of November 15, 1997. Meteorological data indicated clear skies with a moderate wind. Investigations with the Liverpool Astronomy Group suggested the sighting might be related to the Leonid meteor shower, which was active around that time. The object's observed 'bright flash' and glowing atmosphere were consistent with a meteor vaporising. However, the witness's description of it materialising and wobbling remains unexplained by conventional meteor phenomena.

Formation of Lights over New Ferry

Another report by Anthony Eccles describes a sighting on January 20, 1999, by Mike and Donna. Mike observed a dozen dim red lights moving in a triangular formation at low altitude, described as 'arrow shaped' and not typical of aircraft. Despite attempts to gather information from the police and Liverpool Airport, no conventional explanation was found. RAF Valley confirmed no aircraft were in the area, and Air Traffic Services could not provide radar data beyond three months. The Ministry of Defence also stated that military aircraft do not typically conduct low flying in that area for safety reasons. The case remains open, with MARA seeking further witnesses. The report also touches upon Mike's other unusual experiences, including a childhood memory of German bombers and recent poltergeist-like phenomena, linking these to broader paranormal interests.

Chasing Shadows

Julie Boyd critically examines the field of paranormal research, questioning some methods and suggesting they might be misguided. She discusses 'classic cases' like Borley Rectory, highlighting the controversy surrounding Harry Price's investigation and the potential for financial gain in paranormal claims. Boyd argues that many reported hauntings, like the alleged 'demonic scream' at Chingle Hall, could be hoaxes or misinterpretations of natural sounds, such as a fox's call. She suggests that the pursuit of profit can lead to the perpetuation of hauntings. Boyd differentiates between 'ghosts' as mere replays of emotional events and 'spirits' as interactive personalities. She proposes that many paranormal phenomena are not spontaneous but have a cause and effect, often linked to the individual's psyche or an 'occult background'. The article also touches upon the concept of morphic resonance and morphogenetic fields, referencing Rupert Sheldrake.

Psychic Health and Safety

In this article, also by Julie Boyd, the author outlines basic principles for investigators dealing with alleged paranormal activity. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the origin of such phenomena, likening 'opening the door' to paranormal activity to leaving one's front door unsecured. Boyd warns against 'unsavoury personalities' in the spirit world and the potential for 'demonic' influences. She stresses the need to consider factors like drug/alcohol abuse and mental health issues in subjects, as these can be root causes or attract negative energies. The article also discusses the role of pagans and Wiccans, noting their caution regarding attracting negative entities, and criticizes individuals who exploit the occult for ego-driven purposes. The use of Ouija boards and invocations is cautioned against, and belief in objects like tarot cards is deemed a form of spiritistic practice that can lead to instability.

Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind - Alien Abduction and UFOs (Witnesses and Scientists Report)

This is a book review by Julie Boyd of C.D.B. Bryan's work. The book covers a week-long alien abduction study conference at MIT in June 1992, featuring researchers like John E. Mack, Budd Hopkins, and David Jacobs, alongside alleged abductees. The review highlights the book's exploration of the deeper aspects of the UFO and alien abduction phenomenon beyond the 'little green men' trope. It details personal experiences, including hypnotherapy sessions with individuals named Carol and Alice, and mentions Richard Boylan's account of investigating secret sites in the southwestern USA. The review concludes with a quote from John Mack emphasizing the difficulty of having one's reality heard in the face of conventional acceptance.

Spirit in the Sky

Authored by Bill Bimson, this article recounts MARA's trip to the Royal International Air Tattoo 1999. The purpose was to educate members on identifying conventional aircraft to avoid misidentifying them as UFOs, especially with advanced stealth technology. The trip involved a coach journey to RAF Fairford, where members observed static displays of various military and civilian aircraft, including Apache helicopters, F-16 Falcons, and Tornadoes. Highlights included the Galaxy and Antonov transport aircraft. The flying displays featured impressive manoeuvres by aircraft like the MiG 29 Fulcrum. The author also notes the high prices of food and drink at the event.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of UFO phenomena, paranormal activity, and the nature of reality. There's a clear interest in investigating unexplained events, from atmospheric anomalies and alleged alien encounters to hauntings and psychic phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging rigorous investigation while also cautioning against sensationalism, hoaxes, and potential psychological pitfalls for researchers. The publication seems to advocate for a more nuanced understanding of the paranormal, moving beyond simplistic explanations and embracing the possibility of unconventional realities and dimensions. There's a recurring emphasis on the importance of critical thinking, evidence-based research, and maintaining psychic well-being when delving into these complex subjects.

This issue of UFO Annual, dated 1999, is a comprehensive exploration of aerial phenomena and local folklore, with a particular focus on the Isle of Man. The magazine combines detailed accounts of air displays featuring advanced military aircraft with in-depth investigations into paranormal sightings and legends.

Air Display Review

The author recounts attending an impressive air display, detailing various aircraft and their capabilities. The SAAB Viggen is noted for its delta wing and canotards. The F/A-18 Hornet demonstrates high-angle-of-attack flight, made possible by fly-by-wire technology. A significant highlight is the B2 Spirit stealth bomber, described as awe-inspiring and potentially mistaken for a UFO due to its unique shape and radar signature. The F117 Nighthawk stealth-fighter is also discussed, with the author noting its triangular appearance and the fact that five British pilots are trained to fly it. Other aircraft mentioned include the Meteor, Vampire, Dakota, Hercules, Lancaster, Spitfire, U2 spy-plane, Starlifter transports, B52 Stratofortress, B1 bomber, A10 Warthog, Lockheed F-104S Starfighter, MiG 29 Fulcrum, Sukhoi Su-27 Flanker, Jaguar, and Dassault Mirage 2000. The author notes the purchase of Russian Su-27s by the US Navy and speculates on the reasons behind it.

Isle of Man Folklore and Paranormal Sightings

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the folklore and alleged paranormal phenomena of the Isle of Man, particularly along the 'Ghost Road' (A27) from Glenmaye to Dalby. This section details various legends and sightings:

Ghosts and Apparitions

• The Dalby Spook: A ghost, thought to be a woman who died years before, shadowed a preacher. The phenomenon was linked to Knockaloe Gate.
• Centaur: A Manx woman cycling in 1922 saw a pale grey apparition of a horse with a man's head and face. Another story tells of a man who rode a phantom horse that attempted to drown him.
• Ghostly Justice: The ghost of a murdered woman tracked her killer to Glenmaye.
• Buggane: This entity is described as a phantom associated with the Glenmaye Waterfall and Bulls Pool. It is often seen as a black calf minus a head, announcing its presence with rattling chains. It is linked to the Water Horse legend.
• The Grey Pony: An old Irish story about a horrible Grey Pony that abducts heroes.

Mythical Creatures and Legends

• Buggane / Water Monster: The Glenmaye Waterfall area is haunted by a Buggane, described as a shape-shifting ghost or a self-contained Water Monster legend. It is linked to former old gods or giants.
• Cabbyl Ushtey (Water Horse): This legend is intertwined with the Buggane and is associated with the Spooty Wooar (Big Waterfall).
• Centaur / Buggane / Water Horse / UFO: This phenomenon is suggested to have a sexual nature, luring victims like the Scandinavian Nickur.
• Moddhey Dhoo (Black Dog): This phantom is considered a portent of disaster and is often a shape-shifter. Sightings are recorded from the 1920s/1930s. The 1577 sighting at Blythburgh Church is detailed, where a black dog caused havoc during a service.
• Fishing Fairies: Mysterious lights seen coming down Glen Rushen are described as fairies, possibly fishing or battling with Irish fairies.

Specific Cases and Investigations

• Gef the talking mongoose: This famous case from Dalby involved a phenomenon at the Cashens Gap farmhouse in the 1930s, centered around a girl named Voirrey Irving. Gef was described as a yellow creature with a hedgehog-like face. The investigation by Harry Price and R.S. Lambert is mentioned.
• Peel Castle: This location has a well-known Moddhey Dhoo story associated with it, as well as St. Patrick sea monster and giant legends.

Modern Interpretations

The article questions whether modern reports of mysterious lights would be classified as UFOs today. It also suggests that the 'Ghost Road' area, with its legends of spooks and folklore, could be a place where unusual phenomena, including potential UFO sightings, might occur. The author concludes that the air display was the best they had ever attended and that the knowledge gained may help in future UFO case investigations, particularly those involving flying triangles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of advanced technology (military aircraft, stealth technology) and unexplained phenomena (UFOs, folklore, ghosts). There's a clear interest in how modern technology can be misinterpreted as anomalous, and conversely, how ancient legends might find modern parallels in UFO reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting accounts and folklore without outright dismissal, while also acknowledging the role of misidentification and technological advancements. The focus on the Isle of Man suggests a regional interest in paranormal and folkloric accounts.

Title: The Researcher
Issue: 31
Date: August 1999 (estimated)
Publisher: MARA

This issue of The Researcher explores a range of paranormal and unexplained phenomena, with a focus on local folklore, UFO sightings, and personal experiences. The magazine features articles on haunted locations on the Isle of Man, a significant UFO event in Suffolk, a personal account of the 1999 solar eclipse, and reviews of books concerning alien visitation and mediumship. The overarching theme questions humanity's readiness to accept extraordinary truths and the potential implications of alien contact.

Haunted Locations on the Isle of Man

The issue begins with a survey of haunted locations on the Isle of Man. Stories include the legend of Arc-Vuc-Sooney, a pig spectre said to bring good luck, sighted near Niarbyl. Mermaids are reported near Niarbyl Bay and the Calf of Man, though these are speculated to be misidentifications of seals. A more specific account from an 1810 newspaper describes a stranding of mermaids. Further south, at Fishwick Bay, mermen are reportedly seen, with possibilities ranging from misidentification to deliberate hoaxes.

The area around Dalby and South Barrule Mountain is described as haunted by various ghostly characters. A prominent legend is the 'Phantom Death Coach,' a horse-drawn carriage with a headless driver and black steeds, which travels on mountain roads and is said to signal an early demise for those who see it. One witness described it as a 'funeral coach with waving plumes with a moving body of blackness.'

Other haunted sites include Mountain Pillars, where a man reportedly encountered the ghost of someone who had previously died, engaging in a night-long battle of nerves. Cronk Eurin (Hell Hill) is described as an entrance to Fairyland, with Cronk Ree nearby being a former site of worship. Kays Bridge is said to be haunted by a 'white lady ghost.' Claugh Yn Baney, the site of ruined cottages, is associated with fairies described as 'little men wearing tailcoats and cocked Tri-corn hats.' The 'Moddhey Dhoo' (black dog) also haunts this area. The Creggans ridge is linked to a Water Horse story involving a preacher and a cliff fall. The article also mentions Gob-Ny-Creg, a haunted coastline area with a 'buggane' legend.

UFO Events and Government Disinformation

An article titled 'Are We Ready?' by Sue McAllister discusses the "UFO Lands in Suffolk" headline from the News of the World in October 1983 and a 1985 HBO documentary. McAllister highlights Lawrence P. Warren, a witness who claims to have been targeted by disinformation from his government and 'UFO researchers' for speaking the truth about UFO events near RAF Woodbridge and Bentwaters in 1980. The article questions why Warren would pursue such a path against governments and debunkers, suggesting he lost his constitutional rights and faced psychological and financial attacks. The author poses the question of whether humanity is ready to accept the existence of aliens and the possibility of them exchanging technology with governments for reproductive purposes to create human/alien hybrids.

The article further explores theories about UFOs, including whether they represent evolution's missing link or possess technologies too frightening for society to comprehend. It questions whether society could accept 3 1/2 foot tall grey aliens with mind control powers, suggesting that people are being deceived by 'controllers.' The concept of mind control, including the MK Ultra program, is mentioned as a means to alter memories.

Personal Reflections on the Solar Eclipse

Julie Boyd and Bill Bimson recount their experiences during the 1999 solar eclipse in 'A Personal View of the Solar Eclipse.' They traveled to Birmingham, expecting clear skies. During the eclipse, they observed the dimming light, the silence of the birds, and a change in atmosphere. Boyd mentions a lady they met who was a Christian and discussed the paranormal. A dog belonging to the lady disappeared during the event. The article notes that Islamic law requires prayer during an eclipse and advises against looking directly at it. The authors discuss scientific findings that the sun's light is getting brighter, a phenomenon some clairvoyant people had foretold. A dismissive comment about the eclipse is quoted from a self-proclaimed UFO fanatic.

Book Reviews

'The Song of the Greys (The Dark Side of Alien Visitation)' by Nigel Kerner: Reviewed by Bill McGarry, this book is described as an attempt to encapsulate the 'Grey Phenomenon.' It covers the historical presentation of alien presences, metaphysical constructs, and the role of Mitochondrial DNA, suggesting Greys may have inserted self-replicating DNA into human cells. The review draws parallels between the book's ideas and ancient texts mentioning 'fallen angels' and hybrid offspring, linking it to modern alien abduction stories.

'Visions of Another World (Autobiography of a Medium)' by Stephen O'Brien: Reviewed by Julie Boyd, this autobiography details O'Brien's discovery of his paranormal sensitivity at age nine, his spiritual connection with animals, and his experiences with grief and disillusionment with Spiritualist churches. The book discusses thought-forms and ghosts, and includes a chapter on animal spirits. The reviewer found the book interesting, sad, funny, and thought-provoking.

MARA Trip to York

Julie Boyd and Bill Bimson document their MARA trip to York in June 1999. They visited Todmorden, known for UFO sightings, and an astronomical centre. They also stopped at Hebdon Bridge, noted for folklore and paranormal activity, and Ilkley Moor. In York, they explored The Dungeon and York Minster, regretting not having time for the Yorvik Viking Centre or the castle museum. The article touches on the historical trauma associated with sites like The Dungeon, suggesting it as a source for ghost phenomena. Bill Bimson highlights the observatory at Bacup and its educational solar system model.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include local folklore and supernatural legends, UFO sightings and potential government cover-ups, and the broader implications of paranormal phenomena for human understanding and readiness. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into unexplained events, encouraging readers to consider alternative explanations beyond conventional science, and questioning societal preparedness for potentially paradigm-shifting discoveries. There is a consistent emphasis on personal accounts and historical records as evidence for these phenomena.

This issue of The Researcher, dated January 1999, is published by MARA (Merseyside Anomalies Research Association) and features a cover story titled "Lucifer: The Arch-Enemy or Man's Best Friend?" by Robert Blackstone. The magazine explores various anomalous phenomena, including UFOs, ancient sites, and occult beliefs.

Lucifer: The Arch-Enemy or Man's Best Friend?

Robert Blackstone's article begins by questioning the common perception of Lucifer as purely evil, suggesting a deeper examination of this figure. He highlights the biblical phrase "And the Lord God said behold, the man is become as one of us," from Genesis 3:22-24, interpreting it as a potential hint at the existence of other divine beings beyond a single monotheistic God. Blackstone draws parallels between the Lucifer myth and the story of Prometheus, the Titan who gave fire to humanity. While Prometheus is often seen as a heroic figure who suffered for his actions, Lucifer's role has historically been depicted as the epitome of evil, despite a similar act of defiance against a divine authority.

The article delves into occult traditions, particularly the concept of 'Grimoires' and the distinction between Lucifer and Lucifuge. Lucifuge Rofocale is described as the Prime Minister of Hell, while Lucifer is the emperor. In occult circles, Lucifer is often associated with the element of Fire and its positive, beneficial aspects. Blackstone recounts a personal experience at a Halloween party where a Priestess invoked Lucifer, and 'Salamanders,' elementary Spirits of Fire, manifested, creating a palpable sensation of heat and a physical touch.

Moving to Voodoo, the article explains that it is not a single system but has various forms influenced by African tribes. The Trickster or Messenger Spirits, known as Exu or Legba, are significant figures associated with crossroads. The author suggests that the legend of blues guitarist Robert Johnson selling his soul to the Devil might be a misinterpretation, and he likely made offerings to an Exu/Legba spirit for talent.

Blackstone posits that society is largely lawless and that 'evil' can be defined as initiatory violence. He argues that the Quabalist definition of evil as 'imbalance' is more accurate, suggesting that extremes in any behavior, even positive ones, can lead to destructive outcomes. He also proposes that Satan and Lucifer are, in fact, part of God, representing the duality of creation and destruction necessary for existence. The article critiques modern orthodox religions for focusing solely on 'light' forces and suggests that many demons share angelic names ending in 'el,' indicating they are emissaries of God. The author suspects that the myth of Faust's damnation might be a hoax and that society is largely misinformed about these truths.

Leys: An Untapped Energy Resource?

This section, authored by Peter Tiernan, explores the phenomenon of 'leys' – alignments of prehistoric sites like barrows, stone circles, and altars. Visitors to these sites often report paranormal experiences, psychic phenomena, and the feeling of a strange force. Researchers hypothesize that leys are located along channels of geophysical power, and ancient peoples may have built monuments at sites of strong energy, possibly at 'nodes' where leys intersect.

Professor Alexander Thorn's research on ancient stone structures, including Stonehenge, suggests that these megaliths were built as astronomical observation points using a unit of measurement called the 'megalithic yard.' He found that builders possessed knowledge of geometry and astronomy, laying out structures in specific shapes.

The 'Dragon Project,' led by Paul Devereux, studies earth energy and its connection to megaliths. Their research has indicated that some stones exhibit high magnetic fields and rapid fluctuations, supporting the belief that megaliths are associated with geomagnetic peculiarities. This has led to speculation that the folk belief in the healing properties of megaliths might be rooted in fact, as modern medicine also uses electromagnetism for healing bone fractures.

Devereux also reports inexplicable sightings near the Rollright Stones, including apparitions of a car, a furry animal, and a gypsy caravan, which he speculates might be induced by increased radiation.

Independent research by Charles Brooke and Rodney Hale on the Rollright Stones found variations in magnetic fields within the stone circle. Further work by Devereux and Andrew York revealed a close correlation between UFO sightings and areas of tectonic activity or geological anomaly, noting that every stone circle in England and Wales lies on or near a fault line.

The article discusses 'Earth Lights,' believed to be caused by energy released during tectonic activity, and questions whether this energy can affect the human mind, leading to psychic events. It draws a parallel with the Chinese art of Feng Shui, which harnesses earth energies for positive effects, suggesting that ancient peoples worldwide altered landscapes with stone circles and earthworks to optimize energy flow.

The author poses the 'sixty-four thousand-dollar question' of what motivated ancient peoples to sculpt the landscape so extensively, suggesting that science needs to explore these phenomena further.

About MARA

This section introduces the Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA), founded in February 1996. MARA is a non-profit organization dedicated to unbiased investigation and research into UFO and paranormal phenomena. It aims to collect and disseminate evidence and data, cooperate with similar organizations, and support university research. MARA consists of an informal group of individuals with mixed backgrounds who actively investigate phenomena within Merseyside, covering their own expenses. Members are open-minded, objective, and trained in investigative techniques, adhering to a code of conduct and the Data Protection Act. The association is run by co-ordinators and is affiliated with several other research organizations. Contact details and a website are provided.

About The Researcher

This publication serves as a voice for MARA members and readers to share their research and interests in anomalous phenomena. It welcomes letters, articles, and advertisements from those involved with UFOs and the paranormal, though no payment is offered for contributions. MARA reserves the right to edit all submissions.

Psi-Man Says

A comic strip titled "Psi-Man Says" humorously depicts Psi-Man investigating crashed UFOs. It features encounters with a UFO in the Bernyn Mountains, one found on Ilkley Moor, and another at Rendlesham. The comic concludes with a question about the most famous UFO incident, leading to a humorous exchange about Roswell.

Haunted Roads - Travellers Tales

A brief, uncaptioned illustration at the end of the magazine depicts a figure in a wooded area, with the handwritten title "- Haunted Roads - Travellers Tales" and a date of "Jan 99."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the re-examination of traditional figures of evil (Lucifer), the exploration of ancient mysteries and energies (ley lines, megaliths), and the investigation of anomalous phenomena (UFOs). The editorial stance, as indicated by MARA's policy, is to remain apolitical and to encourage unbiased, objective investigation and research, allowing for a wide range of opinions and findings to be presented.