British and Irish Skeptic - 1988 - Vol 2 No 1

Magazine Overview

Title: The British & Irish Skeptic
Issue: Volume II, Number 1
Date: January/February 1988

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, a bimonthly publication from Ireland, focuses on skeptical investigations into paranormal claims and phenomena. It features a mix of articles, reports, and reviews, aiming to promote scientific inquiry and critical thinking.

Articles

Geller's Sailboat This article, by Frank Koval, likely discusses claims or evidence related to Uri Geller, possibly in relation to a 'sailboat' or a similar metaphor for his abilities or claims.

Knock: Some New Evidence Authored by David Berman, this piece delves into new evidence concerning the Knock shrine, a site associated with alleged paranormal events, and examines it from a skeptical perspective.

Magicians, Mediums & Psychics: The Last in a Series of Three Articles David Alexander contributes the final part of a series exploring the roles and claims of magicians, mediums, and psychics, likely analyzing their methods and the validity of their purported abilities.

Predictions 1988 (The Psychics' Ideas) Frank Chambers presents the predictions made by psychics for the year 1988, setting the stage for future evaluation of their accuracy.

State of the Art: Nelson's Emporium Gordon Gray writes about 'Nelson's Emporium,' possibly a business or collection related to paranormal or esoteric items, examining its 'state of the art' from a skeptical viewpoint.

Telepathy: A Mechanism? This article by Frank Chambers explores the concept of telepathy and investigates potential mechanisms or the lack thereof, from a scientific and skeptical standpoint.

Departments

Hits & Misses This section, edited by Wendy M. Grossman, covers various items of interest to skeptics. It includes reports on CSICOP conferences in Chicago and West Germany, a psychic investigation initiative in Manchester, and a UFO talk in Sheffield. It also notes the limited success of the 'Geller Effect' in New Zealand and the media service provided by ASSAP.

European Report This section features contributions from various European countries. Amardeo Sarma reports on the upcoming 1989 CSICOP conference in Germany, hosted by GWUP. Bert van Gelder describes the formation of 'SKEPSIS,' a Dutch foundation for paranormal research. J.W. Nienhuys discusses the Dutch committee's aim to monitor and refute paranormal claims. Luis Alfonso Gamez Dominguez reports on Geller's visit to Spain and the activities of the Spanish group ARP.

In Progress This section provides updates and ongoing projects. It discusses the evaluation of 1988 predictions, an astrology survey being conducted by Stephen Moreton, and the lack of interest in an Edinburgh Science Festival stall. It also includes a call for cartoonists and a query about crocodiles swallowing stones.

The Press Gallery This section highlights relevant articles from other publications, including reports on a Russian television program about a yeti, a New Scientist article on yeti sightings, and a letter to the Scotsman discussing the yeti phenomenon.

Skeptics in the News This section likely covers media appearances or mentions of skeptics and skeptical organizations.

Toby Howard's Psychic Diary This is a personal account or report from Toby Howard, likely detailing his experiences or observations related to psychic phenomena or investigations.

Reviews This section features reviews of several books and documentaries: 'Witchcraft, the BBC, and Responsibility' by Michael Hutchinson, 'Kilroy on UFO's' by Steuart Campbell, 'Soundings: the Medium and the Message' by Andrew Tomlinson, and 'The Straight Dope' by Wendy M. Grossman.

Letters This section contains correspondence from readers, offering their views and contributions to the magazine's discussions.

Specific Reports and Features

SPECIAL REPORT: Manchester Meeting Wendy M. Grossman reports on the first-ever skeptics' meeting in Manchester, organized by Toby Howard and Martin Bridgstock. The meeting attracted nearly eighty people and featured talks by Martin Bridgstock on skepticism and money offered for paranormal claims, a demonstration by magician Frank Kovai on misdirection, and a tape of James Randi's exposé of Peter Popoff. The event was considered a success, with plans for a further organizational meeting.

TAPE LIBRARY Toby Howard reports on the growing tape collection available to B&IS subscribers, listing various audio and video tapes on topics ranging from UFOs and astrology to paranormal documentaries and debates.

PUBLICATIONS Michael Hutchinson and Janet Bord highlight advertisements for two books: 'Astrology--the Evidence of Science' by Percy Seymour, which aims to challenge astrology, and 'Realize Your Psychic Power' by Abbe Gail, detailing her work in Hollywood.

SCOTTISH GHOSTS Steuart Campbell writes about a booklet published by the Scottish Tourist Board listing allegedly haunted places. He and Stephen Moreton have written to the Scotsman complaining about the exploitation of such claims.

ELECTION RETURNS Stephen Cox points out inaccuracies in an astrologer's predictions for the 1987 British general elections, highlighting a specific instance where the prediction was demonstrably wrong.

HUBBARD BIOGRAPHIES This section mentions the publication of two biographies on L. Ron Hubbard: 'Messiah or Madman' by Russell Miller and 'Bare-Faced Messiah' by Bent Corydon and L. Ron Hubbard, Jr., noting legal harassment from the Church of Scientology.

GELLER STRIKES AGAIN Toby Howard reports on Uri Geller's claim to have developed a wristwatch to prevent jet lag, humorously noting Geller's listed profession as 'lecturer/writer' and suggesting skeptics might offer more apt descriptions.

DORIS COLLINS AND THE SUN This brief note mentions an 'extravaganza' in The Sun newspaper instructing readers to perform a ritual with the paper on January 15.

ALLERGY HOAX This report details a spoof created by writer Caroline Richmond, which mimicked arguments against food additives and was sent to an organization called 'Action Against Allergy.' The spoof attributed various ailments to brighter clothing.

LIFE IN SURREY... Paul Quincey sends clippings about a self-styled 'ghostbuster' Stephen Alexandre investigating a haunted theatre and a psychic health and fitness festival disrupted by local Christians.

YETI Articles in the New Scientist, Sunday Express, and International Herald Tribune are mentioned concerning the Yeti. Frank Chambers comments on photographs of alleged Yeti tracks and a silhouette, suggesting the use of a telephoto lens for better evidence.

TIME-LIFE The Time-Life book series 'Mysteries of the Unknown' is advertised, offering explorations of phenomena like psychic arms races, UFOs, and Stonehenge, with a special offer for early responders.

THE OPEN CENTRE A brochure for 'The Open Centre' is described, outlining its therapies within the Humanistic Psychology Movement, including body-oriented therapy, Primal Integration, and Bioenergetics.

EXORCISM AT SEA Newspapers reported on the exorcism of a haunted trawler in Bridlington, performed by Rev. Thomas Willis. The report details the paranormal occurrences on the ship and the subsequent success after the exorcism.

SAGAN An article in The Guardian describes Carl Sagan as "the American dissident and sage...the popular astrologer."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of The British & Irish Skeptic revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, pseudoscience, and alleged supernatural phenomena. The magazine consistently adopts a skeptical stance, aiming to debunk unfounded beliefs, investigate evidence rigorously, and promote scientific understanding. There is a strong emphasis on exposing hoaxes, questioning extraordinary claims, and providing a platform for rational discourse on topics often shrouded in mystery or superstition. The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting critical thinking and evidence-based reasoning.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, dated January/February 1988, presents a critical examination of paranormal claims and phenomena through a skeptical lens. It includes a detailed financial balance sheet for the publication, outlining income and expenses.

Financial Balance Sheet

The balance sheet for the period ending January 26, 1988, shows total income of IR£1197.00, comprising IR£1113.00 from subscriptions, IR£42.00 from donations, and IR£42.00 from 1988 renewals. Total expenses amounted to IR£973.00, covering paper and supplies (IR£358.00), postage (IR£288.00), printing (IR£281.00), bank charges (IR£6.00), and an Irish public meeting (IR£40.00). The current balance on January 26, 1988, was IR£224.00. The editorial expresses gratitude to the British Committee (CSICP) for their initial support and explains a policy change to reduce the publication's size to a maximum of 8 pages per issue to manage costs, noting that this will allow for reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses for those working on the publication, though it will not turn a profit. The printing process relies on a home-owned photocopier, which frequently breaks down, leading to occasional imperfections in copies. The publication seeks suggestions for inexpensive commercial printers.

'What It Costs: The Halloween Spirit'

This section, presented as a series of advertisements, lists various services and items related to the occult and spiritualism, with associated costs. These include a crystal ball for £500, a palmist for £100, past-life readings for £8, spiritualist messages for £7.50, a four-leaf clover for £2.95, and a ritual loaf of bread for 45p.

'Geller's Boat' by Frank Koval

Frank Koval recounts his experience investigating Uri Geller's claims, particularly a televised event where Geller was to radiate psychic energy from a hot air balloon and allegedly bend spoons, fix clocks, and make objects leap. Koval describes how he sent five simple sketches to the Daily Mail, predicting what Geller might draw. Geller's subsequent drawing, a tree, matched one of Koval's sketches, but Koval questions the methodology and the significance of such a match, especially given the potential for coincidence and the nature of Geller's previous 'routines'. Koval notes that the Sun newspaper, which promoted the event, reported Geller's drawing as a direct hit, with thousands of readers also submitting drawings. Koval expresses disappointment with the British press's handling of such matters and his own experience of being teased for reading the tabloid.

'Magicians, Mediums & Psychics' by David Alexander

David Alexander reviews 'A Skeptic's Handbook of Parapsychology,' edited by Paul Kurtz, and focuses on an article by John Beloff concerning the medium Eusapia Palladino. Alexander criticizes Beloff for resurrecting Palladino as a 'real psychic' while selectively reporting facts and ignoring historical evidence of her fraudulent activities. He details Palladino's background, her mediumistic stunts, and her association with Hereward Carrington, who managed her tours. Alexander asserts that Palladino was exposed multiple times, often through trickery, and that Carrington, despite his own writings on the necessity of preventing fraud, supported her. The article highlights Palladino's refusal to undergo rigorous testing and her demands that would have precluded genuine scientific examination. It also mentions that Carrington admitted Palladino cheated but argued she shouldn't have been caught. Ultimately, Palladino's career ended when Rinn publicized methods to control her, and she returned to Italy, dying in 1918. Alexander concludes that Palladino's life was a lie and that the 'paranormal phenomena' were products of the sitters' imagination and the mediums' tricks.

'Knock: Some New Evidence' by David Berman

David Berman presents new evidence to support his earlier hypothesis that the 1879 apparition at Knock, Co. Mayo, was a hoax orchestrated using a magic lantern. He cites a television documentary and optical equipment experts who suggest a magic lantern could have produced the described effects. Berman argues that the motive for such a hoax likely lay with the parish priest, Archdeacon Bartholomew Cavanagh, whose authority had been undermined. New evidence includes a confidential intelligence report from June 1, 1879, detailing a meeting where local leaders expressed defiance against landlords and the authorities, with Father Cavanagh being denounced. Berman suggests Cavanagh needed an event to bolster his position and strike a blow against subversive elements. He also references an account from Sister M.F. Cusack, who described a 'bright light' at the altar that she identified as a reflection from a glass stone and the setting sun, and Father Cavanagh's refusal to remove it, suggesting his willingness to deceive. Berman posits that Cavanagh may have hired a magic lantern, possibly operated by a Protestant policeman, to stage the apparition. He also notes that Carrington's own advice on preventing fraud was not followed in the Palladino case, and that Carrington himself admitted Palladino cheated.

Other Items

The issue also includes a brief report on a snake that turned on a bath tap and flooded homes in Bremen, Germany. Additionally, there are advertisements for "Millionaires Sand" and a section titled "ALIENS ARE THEY HERE NOW?" with references to "STAR NEWS SPECIAL PAGES 4 and 5".

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, the exposure of fraudulent mediums and psychic phenomena, and critical analysis of historical cases. The editorial stance is clearly that of promoting critical thinking and scientific investigation, debunking claims of supernatural events, and highlighting the psychological and sociological factors that contribute to belief in the paranormal. The publication actively seeks to uncover and present evidence that challenges supernatural explanations, often by examining the methods of alleged psychics and mediums and the historical context of reported phenomena.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, dated January/February 1988, presents a skeptical viewpoint on paranormal phenomena, psychic predictions, and alternative medicine. The cover features "PSYCHIC PREDICTIONS FOR 1988" with a prominent image of a man and smaller photos of individuals, alongside the magazine's title.

Psychic Predictions and Cover Stories

The lead article, "PSYCHIC PREDICTIONS FOR 1988" by Sue Blackall, discusses predictions made by individuals like Elliott. A separate forecast for 1988 by the magazine itself offers predictions for Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, suggesting she will face challenges but likely remain in power, with a potential for a general election in the autumn.

Skepticism and Paranormal Investigations

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the formation and activities of the Skeptical Society in Manchester. Toby Howard, a computer researcher at the University of Manchester, is a key figure, aiming to investigate paranormal claims rationally. The society plans to test psychics, clairvoyants, and UFO sightings, offering rewards for demonstrable proof of paranormal abilities. Articles highlight the skepticism of the group towards claims of special powers, with Howard noting that while people at a psychic fair seemed sincere, he saw no evidence of special abilities. The society intends to demonstrate how easily people can be misled by clever misdirection, featuring a professional magician, Frank Koval, and a video tape of studies on faith-healing frauds.

Alternative Medicine Critiqued

Several articles delve into the world of alternative medicine and New Age practices, often with a critical eye. Michael Heap, a clinical psychologist, writes about his visit to an Alternative Medicine Exhibition, noting the prevalence of terms like 'NATURAL' and the association of therapies with specific individuals. He contrasts the promises of alternative therapies with conventional medicine, highlighting the more grandiose claims made by the former. The magazine also reviews "The Art of Cold Reading," a book that explains how to tell individuals things about themselves without prior knowledge, partly through "the fallacy of personal verification."

Telepathy and Scientific Inquiry

Gordon Gray explores the potential mechanisms for telepathy, considering electromagnetic radiation and the structure of cell membranes as possible components. He discusses the concept of the "Blood-Brain Barrier" and how it might protect the brain from interference. Gray suggests that if telepathy exists, it must be exceptional and erratic, akin to pathological phenomena. He proposes that cell membranes, with their lipid molecules, could act as aerials tuned to gamma radiation, and that the carboxyl ends could form a capacitor capable of detecting gamma-ray patterns.

Media Coverage of the Paranormal

The "Press Gallery" section reviews how various newspapers are covering paranormal topics. The Sunday Express is noted for its UFO stories, while The Independent reports on a UFO sighting and the Aetherius Society's response. The London Evening Standard is mentioned for reporting on the Irish Skeptics. Other articles discuss the media's fascination with the "occult" and the business of selling superstition.

Frank Chambers' "State of the Art"

Frank Chambers provides a detailed look at the catalogue of Nelson Enterprises, a "Largest Exclusive Manufacturer of Mental Equipment in the World." He describes items such as talismans, Ouija boards, ritual crucifixes, and crystal gazing supplies, noting that they were sold without claims of supernatural powers. Chambers also discusses "The Art of Cold Reading" and the business of selling psychic aids and books.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal claims, the critical examination of alternative medicine and New Age practices, and the scientific investigation of alleged phenomena. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rational inquiry and evidence-based reasoning, contrasting with what the magazine perceives as the irrationality and commercialization of superstition and pseudoscience. The magazine aims to debunk myths and expose what it considers to be fraudulent practices within the paranormal and alternative health industries.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, dated January/February 1988, presents a collection of articles and reviews that critically examine various phenomena often associated with the paranormal, alternative medicine, and pseudoscience. The magazine maintains a skeptical stance, aiming to provide rational explanations and scientific scrutiny.

Articles and Reviews

Alternative Medicine and Subliminal Perception The issue opens with an account of an exhibition where practitioners claimed to 'treat the whole person.' The author recounts experiences with a 'subliminal perception' stall, where messages are masked by wave sounds to influence the subconscious. Despite claims of improving life aspects like depression and memory, the author expresses skepticism, noting that such claims often lack replicable evidence and are contrary to scientific knowledge. The article touches upon the concept of 'natural remedies' and questions whether their 'natural' status implies they don't require scientific validation.

Witchcraft, the BBC, and Responsibility Michael Hutchinson reviews two BBC programs, "Open to Question" and "Network," which featured interviews with witches Janet and Stewart Farrar. The review highlights the controversy surrounding the programs, with accusations that the witches 'bewitched' the audience. Reverend David Makepeace's protest film, which presented a Christian view against witchcraft, is discussed. The author defends white witchcraft, distinguishing it from black witchcraft and arguing that its basic beliefs are as logical as any other religion, while acknowledging that beliefs in paranormal phenomena like tarot reading and astrology are drawbacks. The review also touches upon the historical persecution of witches and the potential for prejudice in media portrayals.

UFOs and the 'Kilroy' Program Steuart Campbell reviews the BBC program "Kilroy," which debated the subject of UFOs. He notes the presence of UFO reporters, investigators, and sceptics, including Adrian Berry, whose scientific knowledge of the subject is questioned. Campbell criticizes the presenter for focusing on whether people believed they saw a 'UFO' rather than distinguishing between reports and interpretations. He mentions the 'Kilroy' program's discussion of the Rendlesham incident, referencing theories about lighthouse and patrol car lights, and the idea of a government 'cover-up' to conceal unexplained phenomena.

The Knock Apparition Leslie Shepard contributes to the discussion on the Knock apparition, reviewing theories presented by Steuart Campbell and Nicholas Humphrey. Shepard critiques the magic lantern theory, questioning the motive and feasibility of such a fraud by Archdeacon Cavanagh, who was widely regarded as a saintly man. He also dismisses the astronomical mirage theory due to the static nature of the reported visions. Shepard concludes that both theories are speculative and cannot both be correct, emphasizing the lack of supporting evidence for either.

Book Reviews

• The Straight Dope by Cecil Adams: Wendy M. Grossman reviews this book, which compiles answers to reader questions on a wide range of topics, including the paranormal. Grossman finds the book entertaining and lively, noting its aggressive style and the inclusion of entries on spontaneous human combustion, UFOs, and vampires.
• The Encyclopedia of Witchcraft and Demonology by Rossell Hope Robbins: Recommended reading.
• Eight Sabbats for Witches by Janet and Stewart Farrar: Recommended reading.
• The Life and Times of Modern Witch: Recommended reading.

Astrology: The Evidence of Science by Percy Seymour This review discusses Percy Seymour's argument that astrology can work, based on research into the relationship between heredity, personality, temperament, and the cosmos at birth. The theory incorporates advances in astronomy, space science, and geomagnetism, viewing planetary gravitational pulls as a complex musical instrument. The review notes that Seymour challenges sceptics like Patrick Moore and Carl Sagan.

Realize Your Psychic Power by Abbe Gail This book is presented as a guide to realizing one's psychic potential through questions, exercises, and case histories. It addresses questions about the benefits and applications of psychic energy.

The Loch Eil Nessie Hunt Pensioner Stanley Robinson plans to search for the Loch Ness monster in Loch Eil, believing the creature uses rivers and waterways to travel between lochs.

Mind Games Grip the West Coast This article reports on the trend of 'brain building' in California, where people are using devices like the Syncro-Eneraser and MindGym to enhance brainpower. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) expresses skepticism about these devices, stating they have never approved them and would investigate if complaints arise.

Divine Creationism Colin Wood responds to a review of his book 'Divine Creationism.' He argues that the evolutionary model does not explain the origin of psychological qualities and that the fossil record does not support gradual evolution. Wood proposes 'Divine Creationism' as an alternative explanation for humanity's place on Earth, particularly in light of population growth predictions and the AIDS virus.

NONΕΙΝ BOARD A description of the 'NONΕΙΝ Board,' a device claimed to enhance psychic capability, made from genuine tree wood and guaranteed for life. Inquiries for franchise rights are welcomed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of paranormal claims, alternative medicine, and pseudoscience. The editorial stance is clearly skeptical, with a focus on scientific evidence, rational explanations, and debunking unsubstantiated claims. The magazine encourages readers to question phenomena that lack empirical support and to be wary of commercial exploitation of beliefs in the paranormal. There is a consistent effort to present counterarguments and alternative, evidence-based perspectives to sensationalized or unverified reports.

This issue of The British & Irish Skeptic, Volume II, Number 1, dated January/February 1988, is a complimentary edition sent to skeptical groups, serving as part of the CSICOP-sponsored newsletter exchange. The magazine apologizes for not being able to send full 40-page copies due to cost. The issue features articles on various paranormal claims and skeptical investigations.

Psychic Investigation

Toby Howard reports from Manchester that the 'Metaphysical and Psychic Research Group' is forming a 'Bureau of Psychic Investigation' to solve crimes using psychic senses. The article humorously questions if this would extend to crimes committed paranormally, and if crooked psychics could use teleportation for shoplifting.

Sheffield R.I.P.

Chris Wright recounts attending meetings of the Sheffield Society for Research into the Paranormal. An initial meeting on UFOs was informal due to the speaker's absence, focusing on ESP. A subsequent meeting on January 6th featured a talk on UFOs by Philip Mantle, who, despite his general talk, appeared more skeptical in private conversation. Wright also received a copy of 'UFO Brigantia' from Mantle. A UFO hotline number (0924 444049) is provided, originating from a Yorkshire Life article in November 1987, seeking reports of ghostlights, spooklights, UFOs, fairies, and poltergeist phenomena.

Magonia Conference

The independent UFO journal 'Magonia' is organizing a 20th Anniversary Conference, with proposed dates on either the May or August Bank Holiday in 1988. They are seeking comments and suggestions.

Spirits on the Dole--Update

Toby Howard reports that 'psychic' Peter Froude from Bournemouth has had his weekly £40 Enterprise Allowance grant suspended for non-compliance with regulations, questioning if his spirit novel 'The Demoniac' will ever materialize.

Geller's Effect

A report from the September 1987 New Zealand Skeptic indicates that the 'Geller Effect' is not performing as well as expected. The Auckland agent for Geller's autobiography publisher reported only four copies of the book sold in New Zealand that year.

ASSAP Media Service

The Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena (ASSAP) has launched a media information service called 'Mediascene', which covers paranormal aspects including UFOs and stone circles. Inquiries about Spiritualism are referred to other bodies.

Tape Library

Toby Howard reports that the tape collection is growing. He lists available audio and video tapes for paid subscribers, covering topics like dreams, UFOs, spontaneous human combustion, dowsing, and paranormal documentaries. Contact is via mail to Flixton, Manchester.

Publications

Michael Hutchinson and Janet Bord submitted advertisements for two books from Lennard Publishing: 'Astrology--The Evidence of Science' by Percy Seymour, which aims to demolish the case against astrology, and 'Realize Your Psychic Power' by Abbe Gail, described as a handbook for realizing psychic potential.

Scottish Ghosts

Steuart Campbell reports on a booklet by the Scottish Tourist Board titled 'Scotland's Ghosts,' which lists 67 allegedly haunted places. Campbell criticizes the booklet for its uncritical acceptance of ghost stories, noting that 'spirits' are described as 'tortured souls.' Letters to 'The Scotsman' by Campbell and Stephen Moreton complained about this exploitation of 'Scotland's assets.'

Election Returns

Stephen Cox points out Jonathon Carver's incorrect prediction of an Alliance win in the Slough constituency during the 1987 British general elections, where the Alliance came third.

CSICOP European Conference

Amardeo Sarma announces that a 1989 CSICOP conference will be held near Munich, Germany, hosted by GWUP (formerly ASUPO) on May 5th and 6th, 1989, with a social program on the 4th and a meeting of national groups on May 7th. The venue is Bad Tölz near Munich.

Netherlands

Bert van Gelder writes about the new Dutch group 'SKEPSIS', legally formed as a foundation. Professor Cees de Jager is chairperson. The group aims to avoid alienating people by researching 'paranormal phenomena' rather than 'claims of the paranormal.' They have received significant press coverage and are editing a quarterly called 'SKEPTER'. They are also granting the Royal Library a full set of 'Skeptical Inquirers' and other important books, as such scientific literature is scarce in Dutch libraries.

J.W. Nienhuys provides translations of press articles about the foundation of SKEPSIS, including one from October 10th titled 'Dutch skeptics unite in crusade against the paranormal.' The article mentions the earlier plan by Piet Hein Hoebens and the current effort, partly due to Paul Kurtz and Mark Plummer. The Dutch committee will monitor and examine paranormal claims in their country.

Spain

Luis Alfonso Gamez Dominguez reports on Uri Geller's visit to Spain, where he bent spoons and transmitted numbers telepathically. He notes that he and Felix Ares de Blas were not allowed to attend a television program where Geller was interviewed. He emphasizes the need for European groups to coordinate their efforts. The Spanish group ARP was legally constituted in March and has received numerous inquiries. A national meeting is planned for December 5th in Madrid.

Ghost haunts kit

A report details an evil computer terminal in Valparaiso, Chile, that has allegedly killed three operators and is to be exorcised by a priest. The 'Weekly World News' reported the incident, noting that bank staff now refuse to work near the machine.

Realize your Psychic Power

This section promotes Abbe Gail's book, 'Realize Your Psychic Power,' which offers a series of questions and exercises to help individuals realize their psychic potential. Gail's background includes work in show business and with the Los Angeles Police Department.

Astrology--The Evidence of Science

This section reviews Percy Seymour's book, which argues that astrology works. Seymour claims a logical and consistent relationship between heredity, personality, temperament, and celestial positions at birth, incorporating advances in astronomy and space science.

The Loch Eil Nessie hunt

Pensioner Stanley Robinson plans to look for the Loch Ness monster in Loch Eil, claiming he first saw 'Nessie' in 1955 and that the creature uses waterways to travel between lochs.

Mind games grip the West Coast

Alex Brummer reports from Washington on the trend of 'brain building' in California, where people use devices like the Syncro-Energaser and MindGym to enhance brainpower. Claims include deeper relaxation, improved memory, and increased intelligence. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved these devices and may launch an investigation.

Special Report: Manchester Meeting

Wendy M. Grossman reports on the first meeting of the Manchester Skeptics group, held on December 9, 1987. Organized by Toby Howard and Martin Bridgstock, the meeting attracted nearly eighty people. The event included a talk by Martin Bridgstock on skepticism, a demonstration of misdirection by magician Frank Koval, and a tape of James Randi's exposé of Peter Popoff. A tape of the Johnny Carson show was also shown. The meeting included discussions and was considered a great success, with plans for a further organizational meeting.

Hubbard Biographies

Two biographies of L. Ron Hubbard are mentioned: 'Bare-Faced Messiah' by Russell Miller and 'Messiah or Madman' by Bent Corydon and L. Ron Hubbard, Jr. Both focus on Hubbard's life and the Church of Scientology, with extracts appearing in 'The Sunday Times' and reviews in 'New Scientist' and 'Nature'.

Geller Strikes Again

Toby Howard reports that Uri Geller claims to have developed a wristwatch by 1990 that will 'stop the extra low frequency waves from entering the body,' thus preventing jet lag. His passport lists his profession as 'lecturer/writer.'

Doris Collins and the Sun

'The Sun' newspaper ran an article instructing readers to 'Dim the lights and sit on a comfortable chair...' to look at a picture on the page at a specific time.

Allergy Hoax

A report mentions writer Caroline Richmond writing a spoof on arguments against food additives, submitted to 'Action Against Allergy.' The spoof, attributed to the 'Dye Related Allergies Bureau (DRAB),' humorously linked brighter clothes to various ailments. Richmond expressed qualms about the report being taken seriously, noting the vulnerability of some people to bad news.

Life in Surrey...

Reader Paul Quincey reports on Stephen Alexandre, a self-styled 'ghostbuster,' investigating Richmond Theatre. A message appeared via automatic writing. A psychic health and fitness festival in Surbiton was disrupted by local Christians picketing outside.

Yeti

Articles in 'New Scientist,' 'Sunday Express,' and 'International Herald Tribune' discuss the Yeti. Frank Chambers comments on a debate over Yeti photographs, where physicist Anthony B. Wooldridge claimed to have encountered a Yeti in the Himalayas in 1986. The 'Sunday Express' reported sightings, filming, and Russian television coverage by zoologist Mrs M. Bykova. A letter to 'The Scotsman' by James Pringle suggests local Tibetan people dismiss Yeti stories as products of over-fertile imaginations, while Chinese Communist Party cadres believe in the Yeti.

Time-Life

The Time-Life book series 'Mysteries of the Unknown' is available in the UK, offering explorations of psychic arms races, psychic powers, the Bermuda Triangle, Nostradamus, and UFOs. Each volume costs £12.95 plus postage and packing.

The Open Centre

'The Open Centre' is described as a well-established Growth Centre offering various therapies within the Humanistic Psychology Movement, including body-oriented therapy, transactional analysis, and Gestalt. Primal Integration is highlighted as a process to heal splits and resolve blocks.

Exorcism at Sea

Several papers reported on the exorcism of the haunted Bridlington trawler 'Pickering.' The Rev Thomas Willis performed the ceremony after the crew claimed the ship was haunted, leading to steering problems, radar malfunctions, and sightings of a ghostly figure. After the exorcism, the atmosphere reportedly changed, and the crew landed healthy catches.

Sagan

Guardian reporter Michael White described Carl Sagan as 'the American dissident and sage...the popular astrologer.'

Toby Howard's Psychic Diary

Toby Howard discusses the transformation of popular ideas about the paranormal with the emergence of the 'New Age.' He notes the unification of fringe interests and increased recognition, but also the irrational trappings accompanying it. He mentions 'Unicorn Place' in Brighton as a source of New Age paraphernalia. Howard contrasts 'Fortean Times,' which features anecdotal reports of unusual events, with William Corliss's 'Science Frontiers,' which presents strange reports from scientific journals. He questions whether these phenomena can be explained scientifically or must be declared 'paranormal.'

He also mentions Rosemary Brown, a medium recording a new LP, who claims to channel composers like Chopin and Beethoven, as well as Einstein, Shaw, and John Lennon. The diary concludes by referencing 'Prediction's' 'Occult Question Time' page, which interprets coincidences as 'psychic signposts along life's highway.'

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around skepticism towards paranormal claims, the scientific investigation of such phenomena, and the critical examination of pseudoscientific beliefs and practices. The magazine consistently promotes a rational and evidence-based approach, highlighting the work of skeptical organizations and individuals across Europe and beyond. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of critical thinking and the application of scientific methodology to claims of the paranormal, often debunking or questioning sensationalized accounts. There is a strong emphasis on media analysis, reviewing how paranormal topics are presented in various publications and broadcasts.