Awareness - 1979 - Vol 08 No 3 - Autumn

Magazine Overview

Title: AWARENESS
Issue: Volume 8, no: 3
Date: Autumn 1979
Publisher: Contact (UK)
Type: Quarterly journal

Editorial

The editorial notes a decrease in UFO activity in 1978 and the first half of 1979 compared to 1977, but highlights a continuing spate of developments including phantom helicopters and mystery aeroplanes. The editor speculates that these phenomena might be related to secret defense units or aliens mimicking terrestrial military personnel, suggesting a need for thorough investigation. The editorial also touches upon mystery globs of unknown substances, animal mutilations, sightings of Bigfoot, skyblasts, and seismic phenomena, posing the question of whether monitoring has improved or if these events are genuinely increasing. It calls for serious study and international data exchange.

Contents

The issue features several articles:

• "1979 - Year of Mystery Globs, and other things" by J.B.Delair
• Special Announcement
• Some Close Encounter Cassette Specials
• A Data Research Appreciation
• "The Suicide Syndrome" by Jenny Randles
• Book Reviews by J.B.Delair
• "Phantom Helicopters: A U.K. Selection" by David L.Rees
• "Helicopter Formations Over Ohio" by Vera L.Perry
• Advertisements

It also includes a directory for Contact (UK).

"1979 - Year of Mystery Globs, and of Other Things" by J.B.Delair

This article details several instances of mysterious substances falling from the skies in 1979. These include:

• July 7th, 1979: A green blob, described as a piece of ice 5 metres square and 6 cm thick, fell on a farm near Lachute, Quebec, Canada. It melted and was examined by police. A sample was sent for analysis.
• Approximately one month prior to July 12th, 1979: A "flaming blob of stuff" fell on a picnic table in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, leaving a frisbee-sized ring.
• August 1st, 1979: Three anoragy-blue globs, approximately 1.5 yards wide and 7-8 inches high, fell onto a garage roof in Clifford, Herefordshire, England. They melted and vanished by the next morning.
• August 11th, 1979: Two purple coloured blobs, described as 'like smooth whipped cream' and 'deep rose', were found on a lawn in Frisco, Texas, USA. One disappeared, and the remaining ones were examined by NASA scientists who noted they emitted an acidic liquid, attracted water, contained uranium, and had a strange pattern of lead specks. NASA ruled out extraterrestrial origin but could not identify the substance.

The article notes that these substances are often unidentifiable and melt, sometimes after falling from the sky, and questions whether they are related to meteorites or some other gelatinous matter.

Ice Falls and Aeroplanes

Another incident involved a large chunk of ice falling from the sky on August 28th, 1979, over Spotsylvania County, Virginia, USA, creating a 22-foot wide hole in a house roof. While officials suggested it fell from a high-flying jet, the article questions this explanation, noting that similar incidents have occurred throughout history, predating aeroplanes, and suggests that aeroplanes are not always the cause.

Teleportation Episode: Spain to Puerto Rico

A remarkable case is presented from the Argentinian magazine "Radiolandia" regarding the Montoya brothers. While driving in Spain, they encountered a thick fog and, upon its clearing, found themselves in Puerto Rico, approximately twenty kilometres from Mayaguez. The article notes the involvement of fog in similar teleportation cases and awaits further details from Contact International's representative in Puerto Rico.

Animal Mutilations and UFO Activity

The issue connects animal mutilations, which have been increasing in North America and Puerto Rico, with UFO occupant landings and Bigfoot sightings. It reports similar occurrences in Taco, Tenerife Island, Canaries, where two dogs and three goats were found without hearts and blood. The article questions whether this pattern indicates a preparatory phase for sightings of strange animals and teleportations in the Canary Islands.

Scientific Belief in UFOs

A survey of 1,200 scientists and engineers in Canada, conducted by Industrial Research magazine, revealed that over half believe UFOs exist and should be investigated. Of those surveyed, 8% had personally seen a UFO. The survey indicated that 44% believed UFOs originate from outer space, and 28% considered them unexplained natural phenomena. The article suggests that belief in UFOs is increasing among younger generations.

US Air Force Textbook on UFOs

Another highlight is the confirmation that the US Air Force possessed and used a publication called "Introductory Space Science", written by Major Donald Carpenter. This textbook acknowledged the existence of UFOs and provided instructions on how to act if confronted with one. It warned against debunking UFOs without considering all evidence and suggested that the phenomenon could be psychological or due to natural phenomena. The textbook, published in 1966, listed findings such as UFOs coming from other planets, being egg-shaped, having three-and-a-half foot high crews with wrap-around eyes, buzzing Earth for 50,000 years, and being chased by Air Force fighters. The article questions whether other military branches and countries also have similar materials and suggests a potential global collaboration on the UFO problem.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently explores unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs and related events like phantom helicopters and mysterious falling substances. The editorial stance advocates for open-minded yet skeptical investigation, emphasizing the need for serious study and international cooperation to understand these phenomena. There is a recurring theme of questioning official explanations and exploring the possibility of non-terrestrial or highly secret terrestrial origins for these events. The magazine appears to lean towards the view that these phenomena are significant and warrant in-depth research, possibly indicating a deliberate, educative process by unknown entities.

This issue of Contact magazine, dated February 9th, 1980, focuses on an upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) and features articles discussing the state of ufology, book reviews, and specific UFO case reports.

Special Announcement: Annual General Meeting

The magazine announces that the Annual General Meeting will be held at Oxford Town Hall on February 9th, 1980. Doors will open at 2:30 pm, and proceedings will continue until 9:00 pm. The event will include a new exhibition, lectures, a brain's trust on ufological topics, and the announcement of special awards for members. National committee officers are up for re-election, with nominations to be submitted to the secretary by February 1st, 1980. Candidates must be proposed and seconded by subscribing members of Contact (UK). The election of officers for 1980-81 will be final on February 9th. The organizers emphasize the success of the previous year's meeting and advise members intending to attend to inform the Membership Secretary in advance to secure reserved seats, requiring membership numbers for such reservations. Seats will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Close Encounter Cassette Specials

Twenty-four cassette titles are available, covering sightings, humanoid contact, and related experiences, including actual witness excerpts. Some tapes are noted as being unsuitable for those of nervous disposition. Examples listed include "The Wildman Case/The Banbury 'Flap'", "The Winchester Encounters/Spacemen in the House", and "The First 'Flying Saucers' (Arnold)/The Maury Island Case". Narration is by Norman Oliver, FRAS. Each cassette costs £3.00p, with postage and packing included. A S.A.E. guarantees a complete list, and orders should be sent to "SKYQUEST (C)", 95 Taunton Road, London, SE12 8PA.

A Data Research Appreciation

This section expresses gratitude to members who have sent in documented press clippings related to UFOs, particularly from provincial newspapers. The organization highlights the value of this cooperation for worthwhile endeavors.

The Suicide Syndrome

This lengthy article by Jenny Randles critically examines the state of ufology, particularly the proliferation and ineffectiveness of UFO groups. Randles posits that the subject is "self disruptive" and suffers from a "suicide syndrome" where the pursuit of answers is hindered by a lack of progress. She argues that many "ufologists" treat the subject as a game, lacking serious scientific inquiry and becoming "airbourne balloons" easily deflated. Randles notes that while enthusiasm is present, it is often directionless, and the overall progress of understanding the UFO phenomenon has been minimal for years. She criticizes the "personality cult" problem and the tendency for groups to become bogged down in disputes rather than focusing on research. Randles suggests that a lack of professional or academic training among many involved in ufology contributes to these issues. She also discusses the "APEN affair" as an example of disruptive elements within the ufological community. The article concludes by urging for a more organized approach to "ufological house" to prevent apathy and stagnation.

Book Reviews

This section features several book reviews by J.B. Delair:

• "The New Soviet Psychic Discoveries" by Henry Gris and William Dick: This book covers various psychic phenomena in Russia, including a chapter on the UFO phenomenon as viewed in Russia, featuring Professor Felix Zigel. It is recommended for its comprehensive viewpoints and good index.
• "Earthprobe" by Hayden C. Hewes: A short booklet summarizing the "Piedmont unexplained" mystery lights and objects from Missouri in 1973, featuring cases, photographs, maps, and eyewitness drawings. It is highly recommended.
• "Spooksville's Ghost Lights" by Capt. Robert E. Loftin: A booklet detailing extraordinary UFO events in Spooksville, Missouri, dating back to pre-Columbian times, including American Civil War sightings and more recent events. It includes photographs and intriguing accounts. It is considered well worth the modest price.
• "The Dyfed Enigma: Unidentified Flying Objects in West Wales" by Randall Jones Pugh and F.W. Holiday: This book meticulously details a rash of UFO visitations in West Wales during the first half of 1977, including airborne and landed objects, and humanoid entities. The authors are praised for their thorough research and literary presentation. It is considered a particularly well-written and absorbing book, with transcripts of interviews and an excellent index.
• "Manifesto Ovni de Puerto Rico, Santo Domingo y Cuba" by Sebastian Robiou Lamarche: Described as one of the bulkiest and most comprehensive works on ufos (ovnis), this Spanish-language book provides a co-ordinated account of UFO activity in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. It relates UFO activity to quasi-religious events and ancient legends, and includes numerous photographs, drawings, and diagrams. It is considered a formidable and standard ufological work for the region.

Phantom Helicopters: A U.K. Selection

David L. Rees presents a selection of UK cases from the 1970s concerning "UEOs" (Unidentified Everyday Objects), which he suggests may be related to the UFO enigma. He aims to present cases for further study, rather than offering explanations due to insufficient material. The cases detailed include:

• Crosby, Lancashire (October 28th., 1973): An object resembling a silver rocket with yellow portholes was observed, followed by a light aircraft that circled the area.
• Loughton, Essex (Summer 1975): Two silent, black aeroplanes on a collision course were seen, with one emitting a loud engine noise and vanishing.
• Barnehurst, Kent (July 26th., 1978): A low-flying, brownish-black helicopter with two men aboard was observed without sound or markings.
• Kersal, Salford, Lancashire (June 27th., 1978): A rocket-shaped object with forward wings, rear fins, and a blue-tinted cockpit window was seen.
• Llanerchymedd, Anglesey, N.Wales (September 2nd., 1978): Witnesses reported considerable low-flying military-style helicopter activity and a dropped flare, with military authorities denying knowledge.
• Marston, nr.Oxford, Oxfordshire (March 22nd., 1979): An object described as a "thing" was seen plunging down out of the sky in flames, with the outline of a fuselage and wings, disappearing before hitting the ground.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the organizational challenges and perceived stagnation within the ufology community, particularly the critique of UFO groups and the "game-like" approach of many enthusiasts, as articulated by Jenny Randles. The magazine also promotes its own products, such as the cassette specials, and provides a platform for reporting and reviewing UFO-related literature and cases. The editorial stance appears to be one of encouraging serious research and organization within ufology, while critically examining its current state. The inclusion of diverse book reviews and detailed case reports suggests an effort to provide comprehensive coverage of the field.

Title: SPACE AGE PUBLICATIONS
Issue: 20
Volume: VII
Date: Autumn 1978 (exact date unnoted for the first entry, December 1978 for Wycombe, August 2nd, 1979 for Crewe, May 19th, 1977 for Rookery Bridge, June 10th-11th, 1978 for Ohio).

This issue of SPACE AGE PUBLICATIONS focuses on unexplained aerial phenomena, primarily reports of unusual helicopter sightings and formations across the UK and USA during the late 1970s. It also includes a substantial section listing books and journals for sale, many related to UFOs and similar topics.

Case Reports

VII: Broad Oak Common, Hampshire: Autumn 1978

This report details a mysterious exercise conducted by unidentified troops in picturesque Broad Oak Common. The soldiers, armed with guns and flares and accompanied by "helicopters," carried out their activity near a canal, lasting into the night and causing amazement among residents. Despite investigations by Odiham Parish Council, the identity of the soldiers or their unit could not be discovered. Councillor Miss Pamela Bouch's humorous remark, "So they did come from Mars after all," highlights the baffling nature of the event. Bob Rickard, editor of "Fortean Times," confirmed that the soldiers and their equipment were "untraceable by RAF and ARMY."

VIII: Wycombe, Buckinghamshire: December 1978

Numerous helicopters were observed over the Wycombe district. On one occasion, entire formations of four or five helicopters flew low over the town before disappearing towards London. More recently, single helicopters have been seen flying singly. Enquiries have yielded mixed results, with no clear understanding of the organization responsible, their flight origins or destinations, or the purpose of their low-altitude flights over the community. The Environment Health Committee is investigating the matter.

IX: Crewe, Cheshire: August 2nd, 1979

Stephen Cleaver, chairman of the Federation of UFO Research, reported an incident while at work in the Crewe Locomotive works. At approximately 10:15 AM, he and his colleagues heard a "terrific drone" as two helicopters passed very low overhead. Cleaver went outside and observed the two objects directly overhead, described as extremely low (less than 40 feet) and flying in close formation. Both were black and appeared to lack identification markings. They were visible for about 20 seconds, traveling in a Southeast direction.

Cleaver also reported that on another occasion, four helicopters, all dark green, were seen flying together over the same district. Furthermore, unusual helicopters had been noted flying over his area since mid-June of that year, though at irregular intervals. The origin and identity of these craft remain a mystery.

X: Rookery Bridge, Sandbach, Cheshire: May 19th, 1977

A railway-track man, Mr. Allen, was walking along the lines during his duties on a hot day at 1:30 PM. He noticed a passenger aeroplane and a much smaller, similar object below it. The smaller object had short wings, appeared transparent with patches of grey, and was climbing NE to W. Both craft disappeared from view in approximately two minutes. Mr. Allen compared the unidentified flying object (UFO) to "looking at an X-ray plate." He subsequently developed a red, itchy skin rash on areas exposed to the object, which recurred later but eventually subsided. It is not positively established if there was a connection between the rash and the UFO.

Commentary and Analysis

The article notes that the described cases make for "very interesting reading" and that "we are as yet unable to formulate a convincing hypothesis that explains all the various factors." It references the observations of contactee Betty Hill, who suggested that UFOs might be developing techniques to approach at lower levels by "duplicating known craft." Researcher Kurt Sutherly is quoted, posing the question of whether mystery copters are "merely another variant of this continually perplexing ufo phenomenon," given that UFOs seem to vary their external appearance to suit the occasion.

The author states an intention not to speculate but asks for additional data from readers to compile a comprehensive record.

"Helicopter Formations Over Ohio"

This section, authored by Vera L. Perry, describes two occasions in Huron, Ohio, USA, in June 1978, which, while not provably connected with UFOs, bear similarities to other reported phenomena.

On Saturday, June 10th, 1978, at 10:45 AM, the author heard a loud chopping sound and observed four helicopters approaching from the east and heading out over Lake Erie. They flew in a diamond formation (Plate II, Fig. 1) and were described as totally black, devoid of markings, rather small, and equipped with ski-like devices. The noise was exceptionally loud and noticeable long before the objects were visible.

The following day, Sunday, June 11th, at 9:25 AM, the author heard a similar loud chopping noise. Three or four minutes later, six identical helicopters appeared from over Lake Erie, flying at a steady rate. They changed positions relative to each other but steadied into a more definite formation as they approached, holding it until they disappeared over the eastern horizon. These helicopters were also described as totally black, devoid of identification markings, rather small, and equipped with ski-like apparatus (Plate II, Fig. 2). The author found both sightings odd, particularly the excessive noise preceding their appearance and their "almost sinister appearance."

References and Notes

The article includes a list of references and notes, citing various publications and personal correspondence, including "Mystery Helicopters," "UEOS - Unidentified Everyday Objects," "The Camouflage Syndrome," "Mystery Aircraft," "When UFOs Collide," "Close Encounters of the Helicopter Kind," and specific reports like "The Llanerchymedd Report."

Books and Journals for Sale

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to advertisements for books and journals related to UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and related topics. These include titles such as "Gods or Air and Darkness," "Piece for a Jig Saw," "Celestial Passengers: UFOs and Space Travel," "Gods & Spacemen in the Ancient East/West," "Stranger Than Science," "The Ufonauts," and "The-Undiscovered Country." Various journals are also offered, including "Flying Saucer Review," "True (USA) magazine," "Search magazine," and "Alpha magazine." A quarterly journal called "LANTERN," edited by Ivan Bunn, is also recommended for its "continuously interesting contents, not all of a ufological nature."

Space Age Publications - Book List

A further list of books available from "SPACE AGE PUBLICATIONS" is provided, featuring titles like "Close Encounters: The Strange Truth About UFOs," "Minds Through Space and Time," "A Catalogue of 200 Type-I UFO Events in Spain and Portugal," "A Helicopter UFO Encounter Over Ohio," "The Edge of Reality," "The Zeta Reticuli Incident," and "Flying Saucers and the Straight Line Mystery." Other titles cover topics such as orgone energy, animal magnetism, UFOs and Christianity, and consciousness.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the persistent mystery surrounding unidentified aerial phenomena, particularly those resembling helicopters. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting witness accounts and encouraging readers to contribute further information. There is a clear interest in documenting unexplained events and exploring potential explanations, while acknowledging the current lack of definitive answers. The publication also serves as a distributor of literature on the subject, indicating a commitment to disseminating information within the UFO research community.