The Researcher - No 08 - Vol 2 No 4 - Spring 2000

Magazine Overview

Title: THE RESEARCHER
Issue: Vol. 2 Issue 4
Date: Spring 2000
Publisher: Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA)
Price: £2

This issue of "The Researcher," published by the Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA), marks the final edition edited by Bill Bimson, who is stepping down due to health reasons. The magazine is set to continue under the co-editorship of Sue McAllister and Colin Veacock, with a potential format evolution.

Editorial: The Voice by Bill Bimson

Bill Bimson's final editorial reflects on the turn of the millennium, noting the absence of predicted major events. He shares anecdotes from conferences about preparing for the new millennium, emphasizing a cautious approach. Bimson expresses his gratitude to contributors and Eileen Shaw for proofreading, and John Hall for production. He encourages readers to question their interest in the paranormal and UFOs, suggesting it stems from a deep human desire to understand the unknown. He draws parallels between modern researchers facing ridicule and historical scientists like Einstein and Newton, urging MARA members to persevere despite potential bullying within the UFO community.

Feature Interview: Interview with Larry Warren by Sue McAllister

This extensive interview with Larry Warren, author of "Left at East Gate" (co-authored with Peter Robbins) about the Rendlesham Forest incident, covers his experiences 19 years later. Warren discusses the financial and personal toll of writing the book, and his dissatisfaction with his American publisher. He criticizes the media's dismissive treatment of the UFO subject, particularly Rendlesham, which he believes holds the key to ending government cover-ups. Warren reveals a shift in his thinking about the incident, now leaning towards a theory involving future humans rather than extraterrestrials, and suggests mind control was used to confuse witnesses. He expresses a desire for fair treatment in future accounts of the event, like Georgina Bruni's book, and emphasizes that direct action, not just books, changes things. Warren also critiques superficial investigations and the ego-driven nature of some in the UFO community, highlighting his and Robbins' decade-long commitment. He discusses Charles Halt's potential book, suggesting it might be a strategic move, and recounts a cagey encounter with Halt. Warren firmly believes the Bentwaters cover-up is self-evident and that evidence presented could stand in court. He doubts humanity is ready for government admission of extraterrestrial life, attributing this to a general lack of critical thinking and engagement. He also touches upon the use of mind control drugs and hypnosis, like MK Ultra, by the CIA to obscure events and confuse witnesses, stating that while the events happened, memory manipulation was employed.

Warren expresses disappointment that the subject of UFOs seems deliberately suppressed, with genuine research overlooked while others profit. He feels the British public has not fully embraced the call for disclosure regarding Bentwaters, despite its superior evidence compared to Roswell. He indicates he will not write further books on Rendlesham, leaving it to others, but has two books and a screenplay in the works, one of which will be a critical examination of UFOlogy titled "Dirt from Mars." He is open to other witnesses eventually discussing the Rendlesham event openly.

Article: Turning UFOs into IFOS - NOSS by Anthony Eccles

Anthony Eccles investigates a UFO sighting from October 1999 in the Wirral area. A witness, John, observed three lights moving in a triangular formation, initially assuming they were satellites. Further investigation, including consulting the British Astronomical Association and the Heavens-Above website, suggested the lights might be the 'NOSS Trio' of satellites, known for flying in equilateral patterns and used for measuring gravitational perturbations. While a specific satellite, Cosmos 1943, was ruled out due to its trajectory and appearance, the NOSS Trio explanation aligns with the observed triangular formation and movement.

Other Articles and Content

• Haunted Roads on The Isle of Man: Route 666 (Part 3) by John Hall: Continues an exploration of myth, legend, and observation on the Isle of Man.
• A Review of the LAPIS UFO 99 Conference by Julie Boyd.
• A Review of the Discovery 2000 Conference by Julie Boyd.
• The Alien and UFO Museum - Blackpool by Julie Boyd.
• Lucifer's Flight From Light Into Darkness by Julie Boyd.
• The Greys "What Are They Really Like?" (Lucifer In The Sky With Diamonds) by Julie Boyd and Bill McGarry.
• The Shadow of the Sorcerer: Myth versus Reality by Robert Blackstone.
• Connections by Colin Veacock.
• Taking A Trip through the Looking Glass: A Journey Around The North West of England's Number One Paranormal Hotspot by Colin Veacock.
• Wake Up And Smell The Coffee! by Colin Veacock.
• Your Letters...
• About the Merseyside Anomalies Research Association
• MARA membership application form
• Psi-man says... by Colin Veacock.

Contributors

The issue acknowledges contributions from Sue McAllister, Anthony Eccles, John Hall, Julie Boyd, Bill McGarry, Robert Blackstone, and Colin Veacock for articles. Colin J. Veacock and John Hall are credited for illustrations. Dr. Steven Verner Weaver and Dr. Carl Williams served as Research Consultants, with Eileen Shaw handling proofreading and John Hall managing printing and production.

MARAS

A brief explanation of 'Mara' as an evil spirit from northern and western France that causes nightmares is provided, with a mention of its presence in Scandinavia and its association with naked women inducing erotic dreams.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO phenomena, particularly the Rendlesham Forest incident, paranormal investigations (ghosts, haunted roads), and the critical examination of UFOlogy itself. There's a strong undercurrent of skepticism towards mainstream media and debunkers, coupled with a belief in the reality of anomalous events. The editorial stance, particularly from Bill Bimson and Larry Warren, emphasizes the importance of honest, persistent research, even in the face of ridicule and suppression, and highlights the potential for UFO phenomena to be linked to deeper societal or even future human issues rather than solely extraterrestrial origins. The magazine champions grassroots research and critical thinking, encouraging readers to investigate for themselves.

This issue of UFO DATA MAGAZINE, dated August 1999, delves into a variety of topics, including advanced satellite technology, extensive local folklore, and UFO conference reviews. The magazine is primarily in English and appears to be a specialized publication for enthusiasts of unexplained phenomena.

The NOSS Satellites

The article "Toronto had figured out what the three lights were..." introduces the US Navy's Naval Ocean Surveillance System (NOSS), code-named Parcae. These satellites, launched in groups of three, fly at an altitude of 1100km and are designed to track military ships at sea by detecting communication, navigation, and weapons control signals. The system uses the time difference of signal receipt for accurate tracking. The article notes that the US Government denied knowledge of these satellites until 1996. Each satellite measures approximately three meters in length. The NOSS system utilizes the ELINT (Electronic Intelligence) technique called "time difference of arrival" (TDOA), which is conceptually similar to interferometry.

The initial phase of Operation White Cloud (NOSS) ran from 1976 to 1987, involving one main satellite and three sub-satellites. Later versions, from 1983 to 1996, used modernized systems and more powerful launch vehicles like Atlas F and Titan 4#17 rockets. A Russian military advisor, Major A. Andronov, explained that the three-satellite configuration allows for precise determination of radio emitter coordinates, enabling the identification and targeting of naval units. This information is relayed to US Navy ships and land stations, serving as a key means for over-the-horizon targeting for warships equipped with Tomahawk cruise missiles.

Haunted Roads on the Isle of Man: Route 666 (part 3)

This extensive section, authored by John Hall, explores various haunted locations and folklore on the Isle of Man, focusing on spectral coaches, ghosts, and other paranormal phenomena. The article details the legend of the 'Phantom Death Coach,' which is said to travel specific routes, often driven by a headless figure, and is considered bad luck to encounter. The tale is thought to have origins in ghost stories and possibly concealed smuggling activities.

Several locations are described in detail:

• Solomon's Corner: Named after a local sage, this crossroads is associated with the Death Coach and other strange happenings. The area is also linked to the 'Phantom Black Dog' (Mohddey Doo) and the 'Wild Hunt'.
• Ballamoddha Crossroads: Allegedly haunted by the Phantom Black Dog.
• Robin Y Gate: Another crossroads associated with a procession of strange figures carrying lights.
• Claugh Ur: Reputedly haunted by a large black cat with fiery eyes.
• The Whallag Ford: A site no longer marked on maps, associated with an unseen force that impedes travellers. It is also linked to the audible sounds of the Phantom Death Coach.
• St. Bridgits Chapel and Holywell: An ancient site of sanctity, linked to the Celtic goddess 'Bride' and serpent worship. Quartz blocks in the area are suggested to generate unusual phenomena.
• Candlemass and Celtic Quaterday: An event associated with serpent worship and the goddess 'Bride', linked to crossroads and stream junctions where fairies and spirits are said to gain access.
• Saint, Goddess and Serpent: The parish of Bride is named after the goddess, and local folklore connects the area with serpent worship.
• Well of the Fairy (Chibber Nerrish): A well associated with fairies, ghosts, and other phenomena.
• Magnetic Hill: A location where vehicles reportedly roll uphill due to a large quartz stone, 'The Fairy Stone'.
• Arbory Church and White Ladies: The church is associated with ghost stories, including sightings of a 'White Lady' and a 'mystery light form' (death light or corpse candle).
• Kirkarbory/Ballachrink Glashtins: The Glashtin is described as a hairy man or supernatural lover who can metamorphose into a handsome young man.
• Ghosts on The Level: Ghosts have been reported at crossroads and near Kirk Christ Rushen Church, possibly waiting to be picked up by the Phantom Death Coach.
• Ballagawne: Associated with spectral processions and phantom funerals.
• Ballakillowilley, 'Fiery Wheel' and 'Water Bull': This area is linked to a 'fiery wheel' phenomenon and a 'Water Monster' known as the Water-Bull.
• Kirk Christ Rushen Church to Port St. Mary: The final route of the Phantom Death Coach, ending at the harbour. Mystery luminous balls of light and the 'Fairy Wild Hunt' have also been reported in Port St. Mary.

The article emphasizes the connection between these local legends and ancient pagan beliefs, often overlaid with Christianization efforts.

UFO Conference Reviews

The issue includes reviews of two UFO conferences:

• LAPIS UFO 99 Conference: 'UFOs: Nuts and Bolts or Flesh and Blood?' by Julie Boyd. This conference, held on December 4th, 1999, featured speakers like Nick Redfern discussing FBI UFO files, and Rev. Lionel Fanthorpe on unsolved aerial mysteries. Michael Lindemann presented on the 'new' MJ12 documents, debating their authenticity. Peter James discussed the Betty Cash case, comparing it to the Rendlesham/Woodbridge sighting. Jose Escamillia presented his research on 'rods,' claiming to have captured extensive video evidence of these phenomena, which he believes are a new lifeform.

• A Review of the Discovery 2000 Conference: Worlds Without End by Julie Boyd. This conference, held on January 29th, 2000, covered a wide range of topics. R.A.S. Hennessey spoke on pluralism in cultures and religions. Brian Allen and Billy Devlin discussed their research into Roslyn Chapel and its connections to the Knights Templars and Freemasonry. Jenny Randles presented on reincarnation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of unexplained phenomena, whether technological (like NOSS satellites) or supernatural (like the Isle of Man folklore and UFO sightings). There's a clear interest in investigating and documenting these occurrences, presenting both factual accounts and anecdotal evidence. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging readers to consider various explanations for reported events, from advanced technology to paranormal activity and folklore. The inclusion of web page recommendations and detailed case studies suggests a commitment to providing in-depth information for the UFO and paranormal community.

Title: The Researcher
Issue: Vol.2 Issue 3
Date: Autumn/Winter 2000
Publisher: MAPIT
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of The Researcher delves into a variety of topics related to the paranormal, ufology, and occultism, featuring articles by Steve Mera, Ralph Ellis, Tim Matthews, Julie Boyd, Bill McGarry, and Robert Blackstone.

Featured Articles and Contributors

Steve Mera: Manchester Aerial Phenomena Investigations Team (MAPIT)

Steve Mera, chairman of MAPIT, discusses a peculiar case investigated by his group involving a farm employee who reported a UFO sighting. The employee was subsequently visited by 'Men in Black' claiming to be from MAFF. Following this, all the cattle on the farm mysteriously vanished, and Steve and his colleagues reported being followed while investigating the area. Mera is described as an interesting speaker.

Ralph Ellis: Theories on Sacred Sites and Ancient Wisdom

Airline captain, Mensa member, and researcher Ralph Ellis presented theories from his books 'Thoth Architect of the Universe' and 'Jesus, Last of the Pharaohs'. His ideas focus on sacred sites and ancient wisdom, using Biblical texts to support his views. The reviewer wished Ellis had compared his theories with Qur'anic texts.

Tim Matthews: Discovery 2000

Tim Matthews provided an overview of the main aims and objectives of Discovery 2000, a combination of LUFOS and BUFOSC/British Paranormal and Fortean Studies Group. Matthews expressed enthusiasm for the group's new and fresh approaches to research in the new millennium, contrasting it with 'armchair hobbyists' who he feels are hindering serious research.

The Alien and UFO Exhibition - Blackpool by Julie Boyd

Julie Boyd recounts her visit to the permanent Alien and UFO Exhibition in Blackpool. She was impressed by its incorporation of various beliefs and philosophies, not isolating the alien/UFO subject. The exhibition featured video presentations, reconstructions of the Roswell crash site, an 'Adamski' type spaceship, and various alien figures. The entrance fee was £6, with lectures available for an additional cost. Boyd also notes that the exhibition is accessible via its website.

Lucifer's Flight From Light Into Darkness by Julie Boyd

This article responds to a previous piece by Robert Blackstone. Boyd examines Biblical scripture, suggesting that God was addressing intelligent, spiritual angels with free will, evidenced by the one-third who rebelled. She discusses the variation in angelic names across cultures and the significance of the divine suffix 'El'. Boyd argues that the concept of Lucifer as an ugly, horned creature is a medieval reinterpretation of pre-Christian archetypes like 'Pan' or 'Cerrunonos', used by the Church to subjugate Paganism. She believes Lucifer was a beautiful but rebellious Angel of Light who became corrupted, bearing no resemblance to the Baphomet-type imagery.

The Greys "What are they like?" (Lucifer In The Sky With Diamonds!) by Julie Boyd and Bill McGarry

This article expands on Bill McGarry's analysis of 'The Song Of The Greys'. It explores the hypothesis that an alien species has interacted with humans, inserting Mitochondrial DNA for genetic control, drawing parallels to the 'Fallen Angels' mentioned in Genesis. The article discusses the concept of fallen angels interbreeding with human women, resulting in 'Men of Fame' and the Great Flood. It suggests that the Greys' attitude towards time, their questioning of human mortality, and their apparent knowledge of human history point to an origin outside of our temporal framework. The authors propose that the Greys might be 'drone automatons' programmed by a higher authority for medical, psychological, and sociological evaluation of humans. The article also touches upon the phenomenon of alien abduction as a potential manifestation of this ancient force.

The Shadow of the Sorcerer; Myth Versus Reality. by Robert Blackstone

Robert Blackstone addresses the societal fear and ignorance surrounding occultism. He defends his own practices, emphasizing the need for empirical evidence and personal experience. Blackstone lists historical figures associated with occultism, including Merlin, Dr. John Dee, Cornelius Agrippa, Paracelsus, Don Juan, and Dr. John Faust, distinguishing between genuine practitioners and charlatans. He criticizes those who make judgments about the supernatural without educating themselves. Blackstone also discusses the nature of magic, stating that there is no clear-cut separation between 'Black' and 'White' magic, comparing magical force to electricity. He argues that 'good' and 'evil' are not absolute but relative, and that neurotic notions of 'karma' are influenced by schools like Theosophy.

Blackstone then details different schools of sorcery, including 'Theurgy' (Ritual Magic) and 'Spells' (minor rituals). 'Theurgy' involves casting circles and invoking or evocation of entities. 'Spells' are categorized into Sympathetic magic ('Like creates Like') and Contagious or contact magic ('energy passed on'). He provides examples of both, including the 'Voodoo Doll' and the principle of using personal items to influence someone. Blackstone concludes that magic is experiencing a revival.

CONNECTIONS? By Colin Veacock

Colin Veacock reflects on how history repeats itself and how human beliefs shape interpretations of strange phenomena. He notes the evolution of explanations for crop circles (from devil manifestations to landing sites) and UFOs (from alien crafts to souls of the dead). Veacock draws parallels between the rise of spiritualism in the 19th century and the modern UFO and alien abduction experience, suggesting both are driven by fundamental human questions about life, death, and our place in the universe. He highlights the impact of events like the 'War of the Worlds' broadcast and the attack on Pearl Harbour in shaping public perception and anxieties.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of reality, the interpretation of unexplained phenomena, and the intersection of ancient beliefs with modern concepts. There is a clear interest in exploring the origins of UFOs and aliens, with a tendency to link them to ancient myths, religious texts, and occult traditions. The magazine seems to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance, encouraging personal investigation while cautioning against charlatanism and unfounded beliefs. The editorial stance appears to favor a deeper, more serious approach to research, distinguishing between genuine practitioners and those who merely dabble or sensationalize.

This issue of The Pagan Wheel Magazine, a Premier Journal from the North West, priced at £2 per issue with four issues per year, focuses on paranormal phenomena, particularly UFOs, spiritualism, and hauntings in Northwest England. The cover story, "Taking A Trip Through The Looking Glass: A Journey Around The Northwest Of England's Number One Paranormal Hot Spot," by Colin Veacock, details numerous haunted locations and historical accounts.

The Rise of the UFO Myth and Spiritualism

The magazine begins by drawing parallels between the emergence of spiritualism in the Victorian era and the UFO visitation myth that gained traction after World War II. It suggests that societal anxieties and a public desire for extraordinary experiences fueled both movements. Early incidents like the Kenneth Arnold sighting of nine crescent-shaped aircraft in 1947, the Roswell crash, and the tragic death of Captain Thomas Mantell in pursuit of a UFO are presented as catalysts for the alien visitation question. The article notes that while Arnold described objects flying like a skimmed saucer, media reporting sensationalized the term 'flying saucers,' leading to a public myth-building process similar to that of spiritualism.

The text highlights how both spiritual mediums and alleged UFO contactees claimed to communicate with non-terrestrial or deceased entities, often for financial gain. Figures like Alan Webb, George King, and Robert Short are mentioned in the context of channeling aliens. The article critiques the claims of George Adamski and Howard Menger, who spoke of alien encounters and the science behind flying saucers, suggesting their narratives were elaborate.

The Hill Abduction and the Darker Side of Alien Encounters

A significant event discussed is the alien abduction of Betty and Barnie Hill on September 19, 1961. Their experience of missing time and subsequent hypnosis revealed details of their encounter, including the aliens' uniform resembling Nazi attire, which the article speculates could be a subconscious connection to the prevailing racist atmosphere of the time.

Paranormal Hot Spots in Northwest England

The magazine then shifts focus to specific haunted locations in Northwest England, particularly in Merseyside and South Lancashire. Colin Veacock's article guides readers through these areas:

• St. Katherine's Chapel (A): Located near Lydiate Hall, this ruined chapel is said to be haunted by a phantom monk. The site was destroyed during the English Civil War.
• Lydiate Hall Farm: Associated with the Anderton and Blundell families, this area is linked to a priest hide and sightings of a grey phantom.
• Roundheads: Witnesses have reported seeing figures resembling Roundheads wading through corn fields or travelling in single file through wooded areas.
• Mossock Hall Farm (D): Haunted by two ghosts, a man at the foot of the stairs and the 'Green Lady,' identified as Katherine Mossack.
• The Green Lady (E): The ghost of Katherine Mossock is frequently seen near the Formby Bypass and Ince Blundell nursery.
• Ince Blundell Estate: A white cross marks a spot where a horse and carriage is said to have passed through a wall, and where funeral processions once paused.
• Punch Bowl Inn (H): This inn is reportedly haunted by several ghosts, including a sailor and a sailor's head and shoulders. A phantom sailor was also seen digging up a grave in the adjacent graveyard.
• St. Mary's Church (I) and Mill (J): Rumors of ghostly monks and a mysterious light amongst gravestones are reported. A frightening incident involving a car lurching and bangs echoing from behind is described, linked to the mill.
• Thornton Hospice (K): This location features a 'modern day miracle' where an imprint of a deceased patient, Les, was found on his mattress sheet.
• The Round House bend (L): Known as an accident blackspot, this bend is reputedly haunted by the figure of a little girl.
• Crosby Hall (N): This location, with its priest hide, is associated with ghostly footsteps and moving swings.
• The Burying Ground Plantation: An area near Little Crosby is eerily named and suggested as a source of local hauntings.

Mentalism, Illusion, and Deception

The article "Wake Up and Smell the Coffee!" by Colin Veacock critically examines the history of mentalism and psychic claims. It argues that many abilities attributed to psychics, such as mind-reading and contacting the dead, are not supernatural but are based on techniques developed by magicians and illusionists since the 1830s. Examples include the 'Phantasmagoria,' 'Pepper's Ghost' illusion, and the 'One Ahead Trick' used by Claude Alexander. The article points out that figures like Uri Geller, Mathew Manning, and Sai Baba are presented as modern manifestations of these older deceptions.

It details the exposure of several prominent figures, including Henry Slade, Irving Bishop, and the Davenport brothers, as frauds. The Society for Psychical Research (SPR), while generally rigorous, was also fooled at times, as seen with Douglas Blackburn and the Creery sisters. The article highlights how intense belief and amazement can cloud judgment, making people susceptible to such claims.

Joseph Dunninger is presented as a famous mentalist who, unlike others, did not claim psychic abilities but performed 'magic,' with audiences often unaware of the trickery involved.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout the issue is the human need for belief, whether in spiritualism, aliens, or ghosts. The magazine suggests that these beliefs provide comfort and a sense of guidance, akin to parental protection. However, it also warns against individuals who exploit this passion for personal profit. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, distinguishing between genuine unexplained phenomena and deliberate deception, while acknowledging the psychological and social drivers behind belief systems.

The issue concludes with a cautionary note about exploring paranormal areas, advising readers to stay alert and avoid looking back, hinting at the potential for unsettling encounters. The inclusion of a cartoon commentary on psychic surgery further underscores a skeptical yet engaged perspective on the paranormal.

This issue of "The Researcher," published by MARA (Merseyside Anomalies Research Association), is dated Autumn/Winter 1999 and is Volume 2, Issue 3. The magazine focuses on investigations and research into UFO and paranormal phenomena, serving as a voice for MARA members and readers.

Mentalism and Illusion

The issue begins by exploring the world of mentalism, contrasting it with genuine psychic abilities. Joseph Dunninger is highlighted as a mentalist who, after perfecting his act, was able to dispense with magic props and perform with simple cards and chalks, eventually replacing his theatrical shows with radio appearances. The article notes that many people readily accept illusions as real, even when the trickery is evident.

Robert Nelson and Dr. Faustus (David May) are mentioned as mentalists who later transitioned to selling horoscopes. The bizarre story of Bux Kuda, a mentalist and fire-walker who lost his sight to glaucoma, is presented as an ironic twist.

Modern mentalism is discussed in the context of television shows like "Mind Games," hosted by Marc Paul, which openly revealed psychic demonstrations as Neural Linguistic Programming. The article critiques the tendency for people to ignore common sense and accept the impossible, citing examples like Uri Geller bending spoons and David Copperfield making the Statue of Liberty disappear. It draws a parallel to the 1850s when Michael Faraday exposed spiritualists, and Harry Houdini's efforts in the 1920s to reveal psychic mediums' tricks, which were largely ignored.

Mark Edwards' "Houdini Séance" is described, where participants claim to experience cold chills and invisible touches, attributed by the author to sensory deprivation and the subconscious mind's tendency to deceive itself rather than genuine paranormal activity.

The Line Between Magic and the Paranormal

The article questions the line between magic and the paranormal, with some illusionists claiming the two are intertwined. It references Houdini's own investigation into spiritualism, detailed in his book "A Magician Among The Spirits," which exposed fraudulent mediumship. Houdini's wife Beatrice held séances for ten years after his death, but nothing significant occurred.

Critiques of Psychic Claims and the Role of The Researcher

The issue addresses the ongoing debate about psychic phenomena, with figures like Dr. Ray Hyman and James Randi demonstrating how psychic mediums' acts can be recreated. James Whale, a radio presenter, is noted for his challenge to psychics to prove their abilities on air, with few accepting.

The author posits that for some, ordinary life is boring, and paranormal phenomena like alien abductions and mind reading offer a welcome escape. The article suggests that belief in the paranormal is replacing traditional religion for many.

It is argued that while real aliens or spirits might exist, they have not yet presented themselves convincingly. The article concludes that the "magic" lies in the presentation of the trick, and psychic abilities only appear so because they are presented as such.

Letters to the Editor

Julie Boyd writes to the editor, "Bill," regarding a spelling error in her article "Chasing Shadows," where "defying" was printed instead of "deifying." She emphasizes the importance of accurate proofreading to maintain the magazine's standard and suggests that poor spelling and grammar are recurring issues.

The editor apologizes for the error, taking responsibility for it and explaining that it occurred due to a mix-up with floppy discs during the re-typing process. He defends the magazine's standard, arguing that 100% accuracy is unrealistic, citing examples from other publications. He also points out a grammatical error (missing commas) in Julie Boyd's own letter, illustrating his point that nobody is perfect. The editor announces his retirement as editor after the current issue, citing the time-consuming and unenjoyable nature of the task, and his desire to focus on research instrumentation.

Bill Bimson, the outgoing editor, expresses his satisfaction that other MARA members are willing to take over as joint editors. He acknowledges his own health deterioration and states that this is his last edition. He hopes readers will lower their expectations of grammar and spelling in future issues, considering The Researcher one of MARA's biggest achievements.

Bimson also reminds readers that the letters page is a forum for discussion and that MARA is non-political and does not hold fixed beliefs, tolerating diverse viewpoints but not public libel.

About MARA

The Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA) was founded in February 1996 as a non-profit organization dedicated to unbiased investigation and research into UFO/paranormal phenomena. It aims to collect and disseminate evidence and data, and to cooperate with similar organizations. MARA supports university undergraduate research. Membership is free and open to individuals over 18 with mixed backgrounds interested in investigating paranormal phenomena, primarily within Merseyside. Members are trained and must adhere to a code of conduct regarding confidentiality. The association is run by group co-ordinators and is apolitical.

MARA is affiliated with several other organizations, including the British UFO Research Association and the Incorporated Society for Psychical Research. The publication, "The Researcher," serves as a platform for members and readers to share their research and interests, with MARA reserving the right to edit articles.

Membership Application Form

A membership application form for MARA is included, requesting personal details, interests, and any paranormal/UFO experiences. It also states that all information is confidential and protected under the Data Protection Act.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the distinction between illusion and genuine paranormal phenomena, the critical examination of psychic claims, and the role of research organizations like MARA. The editorial stance, particularly from the outgoing editor, Bill Bimson, emphasizes a commitment to objective investigation, open-mindedness, and a tolerance for diverse beliefs within the paranormal community, while firmly rejecting libel and maintaining a non-political approach. The issue also highlights the challenges of producing a publication dedicated to such topics, including the dedication required from editors and contributors.