Vimana 21 - No 33 - 4eme trim 1988

Magazine Overview

Title: Vimana
Issue: 31
Subtitle: LE MAGAZINE DE LA COTE D'OR INSOLITE (The Magazine of the Unusual Côte d'Or)
Publisher: A.D.R.U.P. (Association Dijonnaise de Recherches Ufologiques et Parapsychologiques)
Type: Quarterly Review
Price: 10 F
Date: Not explicitly stated, but context suggests late 1980s due to mention of 1989 special issue.

Editorial Notes and Publication Changes

The editorial section begins by announcing the regretful cancellation of a colloquium in Francheville, initially postponed to September but ultimately canceled due to unfavorable dates for many participants. A significant change in publication is also detailed: Vimana will no longer be a quarterly review but will transition to a single annual issue, styled as a yearbook. This format has been previously used and found effective. Readers are informed about the upcoming special issue number 34 for 1989, which will reflect the 'insolite' (unusual/unexplained) events of that year, available for 60 F. The editorial expresses gratitude for continued reader confidence and encourages contributions, stating that their pages are always open. The team extends best wishes for the new year.

A reservation form for the special issue N° 34 SPECIAL 1989 is included, requesting Name, First Name, Address, and the number of copies desired, along with payment details (X 60 F.). The address for reservations is ADRUP, 43, rue de la Veuglotte, 21800 QUETIGNY.

Cremations Spontanees (Spontaneous Human Combustion)

This extensive article, attributed to Scipion Maffei (1733), explores the phenomenon of spontaneous human combustion (SHC). It begins by acknowledging the dual nature of fire – its benefits for human evolution and its destructive, fear-inducing aspects. While modern technology helps mitigate ordinary fires, the article focuses on the mysterious and troubling form of spontaneous combustion, which occurs without natural explanation.

Several cases are presented:

• 1945, Galicia: An child's apron and a farm roof caught fire, followed by inexplicable fires affecting crops and household items. A farmer's wife woke up with her feet on fire.
• 1979, Séron: A series of 98 spontaneous fires occurred over three weeks, involving experts, parapsychologists, and the media. Initially, two young men confessed to orchestrating a hoax but later retracted, leaving the mystery unresolved.
• 1973, Gelanes (Aubel): A retired couple's house experienced electrical phenomena, including sparks from the meter, lights turning on spontaneously, and the television operating. EDF agents found no anomalies, suggesting that while material failures can be explained, some phenomena remain puzzling.

The article then touches upon individuals with alleged unusual powers, such as Antonio Ferreira from Brazil (1981), who could reportedly cause fires by looking at objects, and an Italian man (1983) with a magnetic power to reduce objects to ashes and cause electrical disruptions.

Historical accounts are revisited:

• 17th Century: Folklore mentioned 'farfadets' (sprites) associated with phosphorus inflammation from decomposing skeletons or marsh gas.
• Modern Explanations: While static electricity can explain some phenomena (like hair igniting), the article notes that ball lightning remains a mystery. However, the focus shifts to the horror of spontaneous combustion of living beings.

Detailed Case Studies of SHC:

• 1731, Gesenne, Italy: A 62-year-old woman, after applying camphorated alcohol for rheumatism, was found dead. Her body was partially reduced to ashes, with only parts of her head and extremities intact. The ashes contained a viscous, foul-smelling liquid.
• 1885, Ottawa, Illinois, USA: A man named M. L., after consuming alcohol, was found dead. His body was covered in soot, and his wife was found in a cavity near the kitchen table. The scene was covered in a thick layer of oily soot.
• 1717, Amsterdam: A woman who drank heavily saw a flame emerge from her body and died. Only her skull and extremities remained, while the rest of her body burned.
• Modern Cases (Emile Schurmacher's book): A young girl caught fire while dancing in a Soho nightclub, and a truck driver caught fire in his truck. These are sometimes attributed to strong electrical discharges linked to dry air, dry skin, nylon clothing, and specific flooring.
• 1930, Antigua: Lily White's clothes spontaneously ignited without causing burns. The article notes that proponents of 'parapyrogenesis' might attribute this to sweat acting as an insulator.
• 1960, Lyon, France: A man celebrating a lottery win was found engulfed in flames in the street, uttering "fireball" before dying. No storm was reported, and no electrical lines crossed the area.
• 1826, Hamburg: The case of Mlle Catherine Heis (17 years old) is detailed. She experienced intense heat and burning on her index finger when trying to extinguish a candle. A 2-3 cm azure flame appeared, burning her apron. Water could not extinguish it. Doctors noted a significant temperature difference on her hand. She recovered.
• 1959, Paris: Dr. Berthole investigated the death of a woman found carbonized in her room. Her left arm was consumed, her right hand reduced to ashes, and her internal organs appeared incinerated. The floor beneath her body was burned, but the rest of the room was intact.
• 1977, Vruffe (Meurthe-et-Moselle): A woman was found partially carbonized. Her head and torso were incinerated, while her legs, covered by nylon stockings, were intact. Plastic objects were destroyed, and soot covered the walls and furniture.
• 1978, Saint-Pierre-du-Palais (Charente-Maritime): A septuagenarian man was found dead, largely burned, on his bed. Only the bed was affected by the flames.
• 1982, Autun: A septuagenarian man was found dead, burned alive, sitting at his kitchen table. His skeleton was visible through his clothes and the charred chairs. Notably, the table and chair were not significantly damaged.
• 1987, Dijon: A woman was found dead, partially burned, sitting on a chair in her bedroom, two meters from her stove. The official explanation was an accident where she might have set her synthetic clothing on fire while lighting the gas stove and, overcome by fumes, sat down. An autopsy did not provide an alternative hypothesis.
• 1958, Besançon: An elderly man was found carbonized in his bed. The bed frame was partially burned. An autopsy revealed death by asphyxiation, with the heat causing the flesh to burst. The cause remained unknown, as the man took the answer to his grave.

The article concludes by stating that these cases often involve a mix of unexplained and known factors, making the researcher's task difficult. The mystery of death is compounded when it occurs through an unusual, insolite event, opening the door to the unknown.

News Reports on the Dijon Case

Several news clippings from 'Les Dépêches' detail the case of Mme Cécile Duparet in Dijon:

• Page 9: A report titled "Dijon: Une vieille dame retrouvée morte carbonisée à son domicile" (Dijon: An old lady found dead, carbonized, at her home) describes the discovery of the 76-year-old victim by her grandson. She was found seated on a chair, two meters from a stove, with her clothes and body partially burned. Police initially suspected an accidental cause, possibly related to her synthetic clothing igniting while lighting the stove, leading to asphyxiation. An autopsy was scheduled.
• Page 10 (Lundi 15.6.87): A headline "Une vieille dame mystérieusement brûlée dans son appartement" (An old lady mysteriously burned in her apartment) reiterates the discovery and the puzzling circumstances. Investigators favored an accident but were questioning how the victim could have burned so severely without significant damage to the surroundings.
• Page 10 (ALE): A report titled "Dijon : Le corps de l'octogénaire sera autopsié aujourd'hui" (Dijon: The octogenarian's body to be autopsied today) mentions the previous day's discovery and the ongoing investigation. The preliminary hypothesis remained an accident, with the victim possibly setting her synthetic clothes on fire. The autopsy was expected to confirm or refute this.
• Page 10 (RF): A section titled "Mort mystérieuse de la rue Amiral-Roussin à Dijon" (Mysterious death on Rue Amiral-Roussin in Dijon) and "Une autopsie pratiquée ce matin" (An autopsy performed this morning) states that an inquiry was opened to determine the cause of death. The autopsy was intended to clarify the mysterious death and confirm the accident theory.
• Page 10 (Autopsie du corps de la vieille dame : Un accident a priori): This report confirms that the autopsy performed the previous morning did not allow for any hypothesis other than an accident, according to the investigating judge. However, the investigation was to continue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on the 'insolite' – the unusual, unexplained, and mysterious. The primary theme explored in this issue is spontaneous human combustion, presented through a historical and case-study approach. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into phenomena that defy conventional rational explanations, acknowledging both the scientific attempts to find causes (electricity, alcohol, materials) and the persistent mysteries that remain. There is an implicit encouragement for readers to consider possibilities beyond the strictly mundane, aligning with the magazine's stated purpose of exploring ufology and parapsychology. The publication itself is positioned as a platform for such investigations, inviting reader contributions and aiming to document the unexplained.

VIMANA 21, published in December 1988 by A.D.R.U.P., is a French magazine dedicated to exploring unusual phenomena, UFOs, and mysteries. This issue features several intriguing cases, including unexplained deaths, a man with electrical abilities, and the enduring enigma of a miraculous sarcophagus.

Unexplained Deaths and Electrical Phenomena

The magazine reports on two carbonized deaths in France. The first involves M. Andre Henry, a 49-year-old homeless man found dead in a field near Nuits-Saint-Georges. Initial conclusions suggest he accidentally set himself on fire while trying to warm himself. The second case details the discovery of Monique Sire, a 43-year-old woman, found partially carbonized on a sofa in her apartment in Saint-Ylie. The fire had extinguished itself, and the police were awaiting autopsy results.

In a more unusual report, the magazine highlights the case of Xue Dibo, a Chinese worker from Xinjiang. According to the official Chinese agency 'Chine Nouvelle', Xue Dibo emits powerful electric discharges whenever he touches metallic objects, capable of throwing a person to the ground. Experts reportedly consider this a unique phenomenon in China.

The Mystery of the Arles-sur-Tech Sarcophagus

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to the long-standing mystery of a sarcophagus located in the church of Arles-sur-Tech in the Pyrénées-Orientales region of France. This marble sarcophagus, dating back over 1500 years, continuously fills with pure water, a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists for centuries. The water is believed by many locals to have curative properties.

The article details the history of the phenomenon, which began around 960 AD when relics of two Persian princes were placed in the sarcophagus. Despite numerous investigations by scientists and engineers, including attempts to isolate the sarcophagus from its surroundings, no rational explanation for the water's origin has been found. The water is described as chemically pure, does not corrupt, and seems to renew itself. The phenomenon reportedly ceased only once during the French Revolution when the sarcophagus was desecrated and used as a refuse dump, but resumed after it was cleaned.

The magazine also announces a contest, offering 10 million old French Francs (100,000 new Francs) to anyone who can provide the most convincing explanation for the sarcophagus's mysterious water source.

Environmental Concerns and Other Articles

Beyond these specific cases, the magazine includes an article titled "L'EFFET DE SERRE REND LA TERRE FIÉVREUSE" (The Greenhouse Effect Makes the Earth Feverish), discussing the impact of industrial emissions of carbon dioxide and the potential for rising global temperatures and ecological imbalances, particularly affecting the poles and sea levels.

Another section, "L'INSOLITE" (The Unusual), reflects on the perceived decline in UFO sightings and the general public's disinterest in unusual phenomena, contrasting it with the continued existence of mysteries like hauntings, clairvoyance, and astrology. It mentions the collection of over 400 newspaper clippings related to UFOs in 1987 alone.

The magazine also features a list of past and upcoming publications and events by A.D.R.U.P., including previous issues of VIMANA covering topics like humanoids, ancient phenomena, hauntings, and UFO waves. It also announces a change of address for the A.D.R.U.P. association.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

VIMANA consistently explores unexplained phenomena, UFOs, and historical mysteries, often presenting cases that challenge conventional scientific understanding. The magazine seems to encourage public participation in solving these mysteries, as evidenced by the contest for the Arles-sur-Tech sarcophagus. There is an underlying theme of skepticism towards purely materialistic explanations, suggesting an openness to the paranormal and the unknown. The editorial stance appears to be one of curiosity and a desire to document and investigate the unusual aspects of the world.

This issue of the magazine, dated August 13-15, 1988, features a cover story on the surprising donations to Egyptian healers and a lead article about a "miraculous" recovery in Lourdes. The magazine covers a range of topics including paranormal phenomena, local legends, and unusual events from around the world.

Miraculous Healing in Lourdes

The issue highlights the case of Joseph Charpentier, a 59-year-old man from Hombourg-Haut, who claims to have been miraculously cured of paraplegia after 19 years. He recounts his experience during a pilgrimage with the 'Lion of Judah' community to Lourdes. After receiving the anointing of the sick, he felt a great warmth and was able to stand up. This was his twentieth pilgrimage. Charpentier, who became paraplegic in 1969 due to an operation for eight herniated discs, expressed his enduring faith and his intention to return to Lourdes to testify. His family confirmed the shock and emotion of seeing him walk again.

Surprising Donations from Egyptian Healers

The magazine explores the world of Egyptian healers, detailing their unique methods and the surprising donations they receive. Nabila Serour Abdallah, a healer from Egypt, claims that a simple mixture of a white porcelain plate, half a lemon, olive oil, and Quranic verses is sufficient to cure psoriasis. Another healer, Farra Andrawos Abdel-Malek, uses a black horsehair and mouse blood to restore youthfulness to elderly men. Moawad Mohammed claims to command genies to reconcile couples or help infertile women conceive. The article attributes the deep-rooted tradition of healers in Egypt to a combination of illiteracy and profound faith. While authorities generally view these practices as fraudulent, some acknowledge unexplained cases. General Samir Abdwel Haliom, a Cairo police chief, notes the fine line between old customs and fraud, stating that less than 100 complaints are filed annually against thousands of healers. Penalties for fraud can range from three to four months in prison.

Nabila Serour Abdallah, described as a stout woman with a dark complexion and piercing gaze, claims to have treated over 30,000 people for skin conditions like psoriasis, vitiligo, baldness, and leprosy. She has a waiting list of 38,000 names. She attributes her healing abilities to a divine gift discovered at age 12, enabling her to see the future. Her treatment involves a patient dipping a lemon into olive oil and reciting special verses, applying it to their body. She asserts that no patient has failed to be cured. Abdallah does not charge for her services but receives gifts from grateful patients. A Saudi client, Mohammed Hussein, testified to being cured of psoriasis after suffering for 20 years. Doctors acknowledge the healing properties of olive oil for skin conditions but state there is no known cure for psoriasis.

Haunted House in Vailhauquès

The magazine investigates a mysterious phenomenon at the 'Mas de la Coste' in Vailhauquès, a hamlet near Montpellier. For 15 years, the Boudon family has been disturbed by loud, rhythmic thuds emanating from the walls of their home, starting at midnight. Georges Boudon, a 47-year-old employee at the Montpellier Faculty of Medicine, his wife Yvette, and their 17-year-old son Olivier, have experienced escalating anxiety due to these nocturnal disturbances. Parapsychologist Yves Lignon, from the University of Toulouse-le-Mirail, was called in to investigate. Lignon, using sophisticated equipment including a computer and a 'random generator', initially believed the phenomenon was 'psycho-kinesis' originating from Georges Boudon himself. This was the third time Lignon had encountered such a phenomenon. He even considered the possibility of an exorcism, despite Boudon's Catholic faith.

Lignon's team conducted an investigation, and he claimed to have nearly resolved the issue, stating it was a 'scientific exorcism' that would likely end the disturbances. However, the noises returned with renewed intensity. A new hypothesis emerged, suggesting a geological cause related to the nearby river, La Mosson. A retired man, while picking violets, mentioned that the river could fill up and form a lake, with its flow creating a siphon effect that produces the noises. This theory is supported by the fact that the Mosson has overflowed tumultuously three times since the beginning of the century, and on the previous two occasions, the house was uninhabited. The article suggests a possible connection to local legends of a 'Vivre' (a mythical creature) and the 'demon of the waters'. The Boudon family, overwhelmed by media attention, expressed their exhaustion.

The 'Lizard-Man' Terrorizes a Small Town

In Bishopville, USA, a rural town of 3,000 inhabitants, a legend of a 'lizard-man' has captivated the public. Christopher Davis, a 17-year-old, reported being attacked by a strange creature measuring over two meters, with dark green skin and red eyes, while changing a tire. The creature allegedly clung to his car door as he sped away. The incident drew hundreds of curious onlookers to the local swamps. A local radio station offered a million-dollar reward for the creature's capture, and journalists descended on the town. Police spokesperson stated that Davis had indeed seen 'something' but insisted it was not a 'lizard-man', suggesting it might have been a bear or other people. The legend has generated numerous jokes, and plaster casts of alleged footprints have been made, though police believe they are man-made. Recently, an anonymous individual submitted scales and blood samples, purportedly from the creature, to the police. These samples were identified as belonging to a dead fish. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, the 'lizard-man' phenomenon has boosted local business, although the exact economic impact is unclear.

The 'Beast of Apocalypse' Returns

Couches, a town in Saône-et-Loire, France, prepared for a three-day festival celebrating a local legend of the 'Vivre', a monstrous creature from the 15th century. The event, held every twenty years, marked its sixth edition and its centenary. The legend tells of a beast emerging from a lake, which was eventually captured after a magician cast a spell on it. The Duke of Burgundy, Philippe Le Bon, was alerted and participated in the events. The festival included historical reenactments, a parade of floats depicting various scenes, and performances by street artists. The 'Vivre' was paraded through the streets on a twelve-meter-long float, followed by other decorated floats. The celebration culminated in the 'Vivre' being burned at the stake. The legend is deeply ingrained in the town's identity, passed down through generations.

UFOs Spotted at Heuilley-sur-Saône

During a 36-hour event in Heuilley-sur-Saône, a parade of 'Objects Flottants Non Identifiés' (OFNI - Unidentified Floating Objects) representing various countries was held on the Saône river. These illuminated, decorated boats, crafted by participants, competed for prizes. The Japanese and Dutch OFNI took first place, followed by Austria, Great Britain, and Switzerland. The event also included a fishing competition, a dance floor, and a fireworks display. The article notes the effort put into organizing these events by the local association and its president, M. Boisson.

Patrick Fournel and Ufology

This section profiles Patrick Fournel, vice-president of ADRUP (Association de Recherches Ufologiques et Parapsychologiques). Fournel's passion for ufology stems from his childhood interest in science fiction and authors like Jimmy Guieu, who emphasized citing sources for factual accounts. Fournel's approach to ufology is described as 'reasoned', avoiding sensationalism and focusing on verifiable events. He organized an exhibition on the subject in Montbard in 1986. The article highlights the rigorous methodology required in parapsychology and ufology, emphasizing the need to distinguish between factual accounts and fantasy. It mentions the French organization GEPAN (Groupe d'Étude des Phénomènes Aériens Non Identifiés), integrated within CNES, which centralizes and studies UFO sightings. The article also includes a personal observation by Patrick Fournel of a meteorite in Semur-en-Auxois on August 5, 1980, detailing its appearance and duration.

Life Exists Up There

This section, introduced by Ronald D. Kelly and attributed to the ADRUP, presents an article originally published in the American magazine 'The Pure Truth'. The article discusses the debate on the plurality of worlds and the existence of extraterrestrial life, framing it within the context of the Worldwide Church of God's beliefs. According to this religious group, any extraterrestrial encounters would involve angels, seraphims, or cherubims. The text references a book about flying saucers carrying angels to aid Israel. The author notes that while ufology can lead to various interpretations, this particular perspective on extraterrestrial life raises questions about the nature of angels rather than the authenticity of 'MJ 12'.

Abbé Simon, the 'Flying Priest', Dives for His 75th Birthday

Abbé Simon, at 75 years old, recreated his 1947 feat by diving into the Doubs river from the Rocher d'Hercule. The event, witnessed by 2,000 people, was his 145th jump. He described the dive as simple, requiring only tension and pushing away water. Abbé Simon has undertaken these dives for charitable causes, raising funds for church repairs, housing for workers, and the restoration of chapels. He has set records in various locations, including Paris, Marseille, New York, and Casablanca. He promised to dive again for his 80th birthday.

New Additions to the Municipal Library

The municipal library in Gevrey-Chambertin has added new sections dedicated to ufology and parapsychology, thanks to the efforts of the ADRUP association, its president M. Vachon, and local officials. The library now offers a collection of magazines and books on unexplained phenomena, flying saucers, parapsychology, and diverse philosophies, as well as folklore and archaeology. The library is maintained by two dedicated volunteers, Mmes Nicodème and Rousseau.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the unexplained, including miracles, alleged healings, UFO sightings, parapsychological research, and local folklore and legends. There is a clear interest in documenting and presenting these phenomena, often with a focus on personal testimonies and investigations. While acknowledging the skepticism and scientific explanations for many events, the magazine also gives space to accounts that defy easy rationalization. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry into the mysterious aspects of life, human experience, and the natural world, while maintaining a degree of journalistic rigor in reporting.

This issue of "DIMANCHE le courrier" (Sunday the Courier), dated June 12, 1988, under the "ETRANGE" (Strange) section, focuses on the topic of UFOs and extraterrestrial life. The cover prominently features the headline "L'« OVNI » DE GIVRY" (The 'UFO' of Givry), accompanied by a drawing of a luminous object in the sky.

La vie existe là-haut! (Life Exists Up There!)

This article by Ronald D. Kelly explores the age-old question of whether life exists beyond Earth. It begins by acknowledging humanity's fascination with the night sky and the persistent query about other beings. The article notes the significant investment in space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, mentioning projects by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and Ames Research Center. It highlights the development of advanced equipment to scan microwave frequencies for intelligent signals. The author contrasts this scientific endeavor with the popular appeal of science fiction films like "E.T."

However, the article pivots to a theological perspective, asserting that the true extraterrestrial life is spiritual, originating from God, the Creator. It cites biblical figures like Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Paul, and John as witnesses to this spiritual life. The author argues that God, being spirit, cannot be scientifically analyzed and that many scientists reject His existence, attributing life on Earth to random chance and evolution. The article emphasizes that the Bible describes God as the one who created the heavens and the Earth, not as a desolate place, but one intended for habitation. It references M. Herbert Armstrong's book "L'incroyable potentialité de l'homme" (The Incredible Potentiality of Man) as a resource for understanding the meaning of life.

The Throne of God

This section delves into descriptions of the spiritual realm, drawing from the Book of Revelation. It describes the throne of God, the majestic beings surrounding it, including seraphim, cherubim, and the "twenty-four elders." The text explains the biblical account of Lucifer's rebellion, his fall from grace, and his transformation into Satan, the adversary of God. It clarifies that two-thirds of the angels remained loyal to God, forming a vast host of celestial beings who serve as messengers and assist in God's government. The article distinguishes these spiritual beings from the "little green men" often depicted in science fiction.

A Message from Space

This part of the magazine discusses the divine message sent to humanity. It states that God, referred to as "Eternal Life," communicates that Jesus Christ will return to establish God's government on Earth. The article points to the Book of Revelation for descriptions of divine intervention in human events, foretelling the descent of the Son of God. It suggests that this prophesied event may occur within the lifetime of many readers. The author contrasts this spiritual reality with the ongoing, fruitless human search for physical extraterrestrial life through space exploration, urging readers to focus on communicating with God instead.

L'« OVNI » DE GIVRY (The 'UFO' of Givry)

This article details an investigation into a luminous phenomenon observed on January 21, 1988, around 8:30 PM in the Givry region of France. The event was also reported in neighboring areas. Witnesses described a bright, luminous object, sometimes resembling a comet or a large flash of light, with colors ranging from white and blue to red and orange. Some described it as a fast-moving ball of light descending towards the ground, accompanied by rumbling sounds and a feeling of warmth. The article mentions that the G.Ε.Ρ.Α.Ν. (a French UFO research group) was involved. The investigation, conducted by the Association Dijon-noise de Recherche Ufologique et Parapsychologique, gathered testimonies from about fifteen people. While most accounts were consistent, the term "OVNI" (UFO) was not universally used by witnesses, some preferring to describe it as a strange phenomenon. The article also notes a similar sighting reported in Charente-Maritime around the same time, suggesting a possible common origin, possibly a meteorite or a satellite re-entry, though the latter is deemed unlikely due to the object's size. The investigation concludes that a meteor is the most plausible explanation, but leaves open the possibility of further surprises from the sky.

&JEUX - Alerte aux OVNI (Alert about UFOs)

This section presents a computer game program for the Amstrad computer, titled "Alerte aux OVNI." It provides BASIC code for a game where the computer moves flying saucers on the screen, and the player must aim and shoot them. The game involves different difficulty levels and scoring based on hitting the saucers. The code includes instructions for setting up colors, graphics, and game logic.

Les envahisseurs - Jice (The Invaders - Jice)

This is a comic strip by JICE, featuring "L'ARMEE DES OMBRES" (The Army of Shadows). The narrative depicts an alien invasion where an unidentified flying object (O.V.P. - Objet Volant Parfaitement Identifié) lands discreetly. The alien commander reports to the base commander. The comic shows aliens infiltrating various locations, described as "selectionnants avec soin" (selecting with care). It also features a scene with a "Chevalier Noir" (Black Knight) and a supercomputer that manages the "Chevalier Noir's" functions. The comic includes technical diagrams and mentions intelligence agencies like DGSE, KGB, and CIA being involved.

"Chez LUSTUCRU du nouveau pour LES FÊLÉS DES PÂTES" ("At LUSTUCRU, something new for pasta lovers")

This is an advertisement for LUSTUCRU pasta products. It features cartoon characters and highlights various pasta shapes like Lasagnette, Lasagne, Papilloni, Spirette, Rigatoni, Cannelloni, Coquille à farcir, and Rubanelli. The tagline "Les pâtes, c'est aussi la fête" (Pasta is also a celebration) encourages consumers to surprise their guests with inventive dishes.

Comic Strip - Hamburger de l'espace

This is a short, humorous comic strip. It begins with a character announcing that a 6km radius ray has caused restaurant clients to go mad. Another character, described as a flexible and agile hero, leaves his "beautiful planet" to investigate. He detects strange interferences from various points on the planet and eventually locates the source. The final panel reveals a flying saucer shaped like a hamburger, with the hero exclaiming, "I knew it! It's another one of those space hamburgers!"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the existence of extraterrestrial life, UFO sightings, and the interpretation of these phenomena through both scientific and religious lenses. The magazine appears to favor a spiritual interpretation of extraterrestrial life, emphasizing God and the Bible over scientific speculation about alien beings. It presents UFO sightings as potentially explainable by natural phenomena or as evidence of a spiritual reality. The editorial stance leans towards a creationist and religiously-grounded perspective, while still acknowledging and reporting on contemporary UFO phenomena and scientific endeavors.

This document comprises a program for the 1st International Ufology Congress of Rio de Janeiro, held from September 3rd to 6th, 1988, organized by Voyages Hamelin. It also includes information about the Association Florica, a non-profit organization focused on publishing and humanist connections.

Congress Program Details

The congress, themed 'Meet in Rio!', was scheduled from September 3rd to 6th, 1988. The program outlined a detailed itinerary:

• Friday, September 2nd: Departure for Rio in the evening.
• Saturday, September 3rd: Airport reception and room allocation, followed by the official inauguration in the afternoon.
• Sunday, September 4th to Wednesday, September 7th: Stay in Rio, with accommodation and breakfast provided, allowing attendees to participate in congress sessions and receptions.
• Thursday, September 8th: A morning flight to Brasilia for a half-day visit to the political capital, known for its futuristic monuments.
• Friday, September 9th: An excursion to the Valley of Amanhecer, described as a city created by a sect awaiting extraterrestrials, followed by a return to Rio in the evening.
• Saturday, September 10th: Free day in Rio, with departure for Paris in the evening.
• Sunday, September 11th: Arrival in Paris in the afternoon.

Pricing and Inclusions

The price per person from Paris to Paris was listed as either 10,300 F.F. (Hôtel xxxx) or 9,900 F.F. (Hôtel xxxxxx).

• The price included:
• Transatlantic air transport and flight to Brasilia.
• Accommodation in the chosen hotel, on a shared room basis.
• All breakfasts.
• All mentioned tourist transfers and visits.
• Local taxes and service.

• The price did not include:
• Meals.
• Supplement for a single room.
• Airport tax.
• Visa fees.
• Cancellation insurance.
• Tips.
• Congress registration fee ($150).

Contact Information

Information and registration were handled by Voyages Hamelin, located at 17, rue du Colisée, 75008 Paris. Their telephone number was (1) 42.25.17.31. They held Licence 1007.

Association Florica

Founded on November 25, 1987, Association Florica is a non-profit organization (Loi 1901) dedicated to the benevolent edition of poets from around the world. It was founded by Nicolas SYLVAIN and Fabienne LANDOIS.

• Key figures associated with the association include:
• Honorary President (posthumous): Pierre SEGHERS (1906-1987).
• Honorary Member: Jack LANG, Minister of Culture and Communication.
• Review: A quarterly review of 'Liaisons Humanistes' (ISSN 0755-4095), founded on November 25, 1982, with themes of poetry, philosophy, and ecology.
• Publication Director: Nicolas SYLVAIN.
• Co-founder: Edith ROOS (Romania).
• Artistic collaborator and reporter: Fabienne LANDOIS (Paris).
• Editor-in-chief for humanist connections: Georges CHILLON (Dijon).
• Metagnome advisor: Alain ARIES (Nice).
• Permanent attachés and correspondents for various regions in France (Corsica, Dauphiné, Gardannes, Paris, Versailles).

Association Florica also publishes 'plaquettes' (booklets) of varying page counts and offers subscriptions to its review. Contact details for the association are provided: 22, rue du Centre, AUMUR, 39410 SAINT-AUBIN, with a CCP DIJON account number.

Advertisements

Pages 5 and 6 feature advertisements for Crédit Mutuel Bourgogne-Champagne, using slogans like 'I found a bank to talk to' and highlighting their 'livret bleu' savings account.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of the document is ufology and the promotion of an international congress dedicated to the subject in Rio de Janeiro. The inclusion of travel packages suggests a commercial aspect to the promotion of these events. The Association Florica section highlights a commitment to literature, poetry, and humanist connections, indicating a broader cultural and intellectual scope beyond ufology. The editorial stance, as suggested by the cover question 'Are EXTRATERRESTRIALS... in BRAZIL?', is one of inquiry and exploration into the unknown, particularly within the context of travel and international events.