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BUFORA Journal - Volume 03 No 07 - Summer 1972
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Title: BUFORA JOURNAL Issue: Volume 3, No. 7 Date: Summer 1972 Publisher: BRITISH U.F.O. RESEARCH ASSOCIATION Country: United Kingdom Language: English
Magazine Overview
Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Volume 3, No. 7
Date: Summer 1972
Publisher: BRITISH U.F.O. RESEARCH ASSOCIATION
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, published by the British U.F.O. Research Association, delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena and research. The cover prominently features the BUFORA logo and title, with the issue details indicating Volume 3, Number 7, Summer 1972.
Editorial
The editorial, titled "EDITORIAL," posits that UFO sightings exhibit a curious duality, appearing sometimes material and at other times evanescent. The author suggests that conventional scientific approaches may require an "Orwellian 'doublethink'" to comprehend the elusive UFO. A key idea explored is that UFO phenomena might arise from the "great collective unconscious of the world" stirring up elemental forces, manifesting in ways that align with local mythology. This concept is linked to "anima mundi" and the idea of temporary materialisations. The editorial draws parallels between sophisticated spacecraft descriptions and primitive features, and between astronaut garb and incongruous trimmings, suggesting that the appearance of UFO occupants might be mimetic, blending space-age myths with older mythologies. Contactee tales and M.I.B. (Men in Black) cases are also discussed in this context, with the theory of temporary materialisations from the common psyche of humanity being presented as a fitting explanation.
The editorial further contemplates that UFO-like manifestations have historically increased during times of civilisation change or downfall, posing a question about their relevance to present-day occurrences. It encourages UFO researchers to be open to new concepts that fit the evolving pattern of facts, even if it means abandoning cherished ideas like the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH).
Journal Cover Competition
A brief report details the BUFORA Journal cover competition, which received over thirty designs from seventeen members. David J. Keepax was voted the overall winner, with his designs chosen for the new cover. He will receive a copy of Dr. J. Allen Hynek's book, "The UFO Experience." Other designs were highly commended, including those by R. J. Nash, Sheila Sullivan, and M. F. Pace. S. J. Dodds submitted the most original and ingenious entries.
Annual General Meeting, 1972
An announcement is made regarding the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of BUFORA, scheduled for Saturday, October 7th, 1972, at 6 p.m. at the Kensington Central Library. Nominations for various officer positions and National Executive Committee seats were to be submitted by August 26th, 1972, along with resolutions for debate. Only members in good standing were eligible to attend and vote.
The Scoriton Case
This section features two parts concerning the 'Scoriton Case,' a controversial UFO 'contact' case involving E. A. Bryant of Scoriton, Devon.
Part 1: Introduction
The introduction notes the ongoing controversy surrounding the Scoriton case. It mentions the in-depth investigation by Eileen Buckle and Norman Oliver, resulting in the book "The Scoriton Mystery." It also references Mr. Oliver's later booklet, "Sequel to Scoriton," which virtually abandoned belief in the story, suggesting it was a hoax. BUFORA commissioned Eric Biddle, an experienced researcher, to comment on the case. The editor notes that while initially skeptical, he now inclines towards Biddle's conclusion rather than viewing it as a hoax.
Part 2: Comments by Eric Biddle
Eric Biddle provides his comments on the Scoriton Case. He acknowledges the extensive work done by Miss Eileen Buckle and Mr. Norman Oliver. Biddle highlights that unlike other cases, the Bryant case was not pursued for financial profit or personal glory, though Bryant might have intended to convey a message of global importance. Biddle states that the "Bryant contact" left no material traces, and the details, such as the saucer and a phial with a Greek message, proved nothing. He advises distinguishing between condemning something unfamiliar and rejecting something that contradicts established facts.
Biddle critically examines the claims of "space beings" from Venus, noting inconsistencies with scientific data from Venus probes regarding atmospheric pressure, composition, temperature, and radiation belts. He questions the probability of Bryant's account of a gown seen in a spaceship, comparing it to Adamski's descriptions and suggesting Bryant might have been influenced by Adamski's book. Biddle also touches upon the concept of reincarnation and possession, finding the idea of Adamski being reincarnated the day after his death far-fetched. He notes that Desmond Leslie also rejected Adamski's alleged return. Biddle concludes that one is justified in not accepting the contact story at face value, especially when information provided by Bryant about himself was demonstrably incorrect.
Biddle then outlines four possible conclusions regarding the Scoriton case:
1. Take the story as true: Bryant had a visit from benevolent beings with important revelations.
2. Fraud: Bryant fabricated the entire story after reading UFO literature or experiencing a genuine sighting.
3. Hallucinatory (medical): Bryant's experience was hallucinatory due to a brain tumour (as he was later diagnosed).
4. Hallucinatory (hypnotic): The experience was the result of hypnotic influence by external intelligences for their own purposes.
Biddle states he does not believe either possibility 1 or 2 is correct. He prefers to leave the discussion of theory 3 to medical professionals and finds theory 4 plausible but speculative. He expresses appreciation for the information received from Mr. Oliver but regrets not meeting Miss Buckle. Biddle concludes that while a negative conclusion about the Bryant case seems inevitable, it does not detract from the investigators' enthusiasm and devotion.
Association Viewpoint
This section, likely an editorial or commentary, discusses the period until September, noting a lack of meetings and a potentially barren summer for UFO activity. It encourages members to conduct private sky watches and mentions the Executive Committee's plans to collate UFO data and revisit old contact story sites. The author notes the increasing media attention to the search for extraterrestrial life, contrasting it with the lack of respect for the idea of alien visitation. A controversy over drawings on the Pioneer 10 probe is mentioned, highlighting public sensitivity to depictions of humanity. The author suggests that contemplating vast cosmic distances might provide perspective.
The section then shifts to alternative theories, recommending Carlos Castaneda's "A Separate Reality" for those exploring more mundane phenomena like Men in Black (MIB). It describes Castaneda's work on "allies" encountered in Mexico, which can appear in human form and are known to local witchdoctors. These entities are described as potentially helpful but also dangerous, with manifestations particularly connected to Mexico and South America. The author suggests that such phenomena might be conjured by the collective unconscious, aligning with local mythology. The section concludes by noting that while some researchers focus on recording UFO evidence, the author prefers to "look at the stars."
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of UFO phenomena, the challenges of UFO investigation, and the exploration of alternative explanations beyond the conventional extraterrestrial hypothesis. The editorial stance, particularly in the "EDITORIAL" and "ASSOCIATION VIEWPOINT" sections, leans towards a more psychological and philosophical interpretation of UFO events, emphasizing the role of the collective unconscious and questioning the literal interpretation of contactee accounts. There is a clear encouragement for open-mindedness and a willingness to explore new concepts, even if they challenge established beliefs within the UFO research community. The journal also serves as a platform for disseminating research findings, reporting on cases like the Scoriton Case, and informing members about the association's activities and administrative matters.
This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, Volume 3, Number 5, dated May 1972, is primarily focused on UFO phenomena, featuring personal accounts, investigative reports, and discussions on the scientific approach to the subject. The cover headline, "THE UFO THAT WASN'T!", sets a tone of critical examination of sightings.
Articles and Content
The UFO That Wasn't!
This article, written by Lionel Beer, details a personal sighting on the evening of May 20, 1972, in London. The author initially observed what appeared to be a bright star, which through binoculars resolved into two bright lights and a third blue light. The object hovered and then moved, appearing to be attached to a body obscured by its brightness. After about 15-20 seconds, it passed behind the GPO tower. The author later realized it was an airliner approaching Heathrow Airport, noting that its landing lights were visible from a considerable distance. Beer uses this experience to emphasize the importance of considering mundane explanations for UFO reports before resorting to speculative theories. He also references similar "lights-in-the-sky" reports from the Walthamstow, Epping, and East London areas during the spring of 1972.
Whence?
Authored by P.W., this piece reflects on the author's ten years of interest in ufology. He concludes that the subject is far more complex than initially thought and extends to a wider field. The author posits that there are multiple levels of existence and that humans may possess senses beyond the conventional five, which have been lost over time. He also touches upon evidence suggesting the existence of highly advanced ancient civilizations. P.W. argues that a true understanding requires developing the mind and overcoming human nature, rather than solely seeking transient entertainment. He advocates for a broader conception of ufology, integrating it with the study of man and his purpose, and urges open-mindedness from both the public and the scientific community.
GUIDE TO THE UFO PHENOMENON
This section announces the forthcoming publication of a new BUFORA booklet titled "Guide to the UFO Phenomenon." The booklet, compiled by BUFORA officers, is the first in a series and aims to provide a permanent record of BUFORA's work, enhance its scientific standing, and encourage member participation. It is intended to document UFO sightings systematically and educate the public about the phenomenon. The guide will cover the association's history, definitions, nature, and evidence of UFOs, with contributions from Tim O'Brien on investigation methods and Roger Stanway addressing the interest of scientists and governments. It will include illustrations and be available to members.
NOTES & QUOTES
This section features several short items:
- That Uneasy Alliance: A note about a new publication called "GEMINI," which emerged from the union of two societies' journals, available for 25p.
- Note for Materialists: A quote from Sir Alister Hardy, F.R.S., stating, "Ground has been lost through a false belief that science points only to materialism."
- What of Warminster?: Ken Rogers has founded "WARMINSTER UFO NEWSLETTER" (10p). The author cautions Rogers to stick to facts and logical deductions. He notes that while genuine UFO activity was reported in Warminster in 1965-1966, some argue it has ceased. The author believes activity may resume.
- Food for Thought: A quote from Geo. Adams regarding the theoretical and speculative nature of the current spatial picture of the universe.
- The Shadow of Adamski: This piece discusses critical comments on George Adamski made by Eric Biddle. The author expresses a desire for a factual analysis of Adamski's claims, uninfluenced by blind faith or bitter repudiation, and suggests an intermediate position to understand him.
Scientific Objectivity.
A quote from Dr. B. E. Schwarz in 'FLYING SAUCER REVIEW' discusses how some individuals dismiss potentially valuable UFO or MIB material because it might contaminate their studies or is considered too weird.
A Reflection on Scientists.
Authored by J. C-B., this reflection follows the previous quote, suggesting that many scientists refuse to consider UFO or psychic phenomena for similar reasons. The author expresses a personal stance against blindly accepting scientific dogma, especially when confronted with closed-minded scientists.
Investigating UFOs
This is a book review or advertisement for "Investigating UFOs" by Larry Kettelkamp. The book, priced at £1.25 net, covers the first UFO sighting recorded by an astronomer in 1868, other scientific sightings, famous cases, physical phenomena that might cause illusions, and the possibility of intelligent life on other planets. It is illustrated and includes photographs of fake UFOs.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
- Thomas M. Olsen from Maryland, USA, congratulates BUFORA on Vol. 3, No. 5 of the JOURNAL, finding it interesting and informative.
- Gavin F. Wilshaw reports a sighting on November 21, 1971, while driving from Derby to Hilton. He and his wife observed a white, bright light at approximately 2,000ft, which behaved unlike a conventional aircraft, flashing irregularly and appearing to move slowly or gyrate. Seven minutes later, a second red light was observed. The entire performance lasted about 45 minutes and was witnessed by his wife and neighbors. Wilshaw states he has read extensively on UFOs and tried to be objective.
INVESTIGATIONS SECTION
This section provides a report from the National Investigations Co-ordinator for the period January 1st to April 30th, 1972. It notes a period of low activity with an absence of higher-grade sightings. A statistical breakdown shows material received, including newspaper cuttings and reports from members. Of 25 reports deemed "worth recording," 21 were investigated. The classified sightings include 9 unclassified, 10 classified as 'N' (normal/natural), and 2 as '?S' (doubtful genuineness). A significant feature is that 14 of the 21 sightings occurred in the Walthamstow area, where they were investigated by Mr. K. Phillips.
#### B. Investigation Comment - Walthamstow.
The report describes the Walthamstow area and notes that sightings there are mainly of the "bright, or glowing light" variety. While some more definite sightings occurred, one "landing" of three "discs" in Waltham Forest is uncorroborated. The investigator expresses reluctance to place great weight on these sightings due to public interest being stirred by local press reporting and concerns about the quality of the reports.
Illustrated UFO highlights of the last year
This section features a photograph of investigators, including Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Julien Hennessey, re-enacting a UFO sighting at Aldridge, Staffs., on August 16, 1971. The text explains that calculations determined the object to be the planet Mars, and four photographs taken by P.C. Leek were found to be images created by local street lighting.
Another image shows Roger Stanway, Chairman of BUFORA, emphasizing the organization's objective approach to UFO investigation during a public meeting. A third image shows Dr. J. Allen Hynek discussing scientists' dilemmas regarding new phenomena on a BBC Horizon programme.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO sightings, the importance of scientific methodology, and the need to consider mundane explanations. There is a clear editorial stance favoring rigorous investigation and a skeptical but open-minded approach to the phenomenon. The journal promotes BUFORA's role in standardizing research and educating the public, while also highlighting the challenges posed by public perception and the scientific establishment's resistance to unconventional subjects. The issue emphasizes that ufology should be viewed as part of a larger understanding of humanity and existence, rather than an isolated oddity.
Title: UFOLOG (Sightings Supplement)
Issue Date: 24th May, 1972
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
Country: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue
Investigations of UFO Sightings in the British Isles
This section details several UFO sighting reports investigated by BUFORA, primarily from 1971 and early 1972. Each report is assigned a reference number and includes details such as date, time, location, witness accounts, and the investigator's findings.
Report No. 1181 (Oxford Area, 26 October 1971): An ATV film submitted for examination by experts at the KODAK Museum failed to reveal a definitive object.
Report No. 1182 (Northwood, 27 October 1971): Despite excellent press cooperation and assistance from Northolt Airport and Ruislip Reservoir authorities, no further corroboration was obtained for a remarkable sighting. The file is to be closed and prepared for evaluation.
Report No. 1196 (Barrow-in-Furness, 21 November 1971): Similar to the Northwood case, no further corroboration was obtained despite local press assistance and active interest from the Management of the Vickers Shipyard. The file will also be closed and prepared for evaluation.
Report No. 1206 (Truro, 14 November 1971): This sighting was investigated by the compiler and his wife, with cooperation from the witnesses, Mr. and Mrs. Thorne. Although the file is open, evidence suggests the sighting was a barium cloud ejected into the ionosphere from a rocket launched near Bordeaux.
Concluding Remarks: The lull in sighting frequency reported for December 1971 continued into the first part of 1972. While some interesting sightings were claimed, none were definitive. The compiler concludes that in the first four months of 1972, in contrast to the summer of 1971, there has been no acceptable evidence of "advanced technology" in the skies over Britain.
Other Areas: Three sightings were reported from Surrey by Mr. Omar Fowler and are being investigated by SIGNAP. One of these is significant, with two witnesses reporting a bright, shining circle from which bright lights broke away. Binoculars revealed a circle of smaller objects. The possibility of military aircraft refuelling at high altitude is considered.
Initial Sighting: A statement by a resident described a "ball of fire" in his garden as "only a paper ball powered by a small tin of burning methylated spirits." A close watch will be kept on further activities in this area.
UFOLOG (Sightings Supplement) Details
This section provides guidelines for submitting UFO sighting reports for inclusion in UFOLOG. Reports are assigned a number (e.g., 3/5/4) indicating Volume, Number, and Report. Only major sightings will be evaluated fully; minor sightings will be appraised. The focus is on sightings within the British Isles, as foreign reports are to be handled by UFO societies in those countries.
Ref. 3/7/1 (Belchar's Bar, near Ibstock, Leicestershire, 25th May, 1971): Mrs. Eunice Rose reported a large, glowing light that caused her car's transistor radio to fade and die, her car's headlights to dim, and the engine to stall. The light, described as a flat circular disc of "moonlight colour" and about 15 yards wide, moved over her car.
Investigated by Mr. GEOFFREY COXON:
- Ref. 3/7/2 (Leicester, 8th August, 1971): Mrs. Nora Gawthrope's daughter saw a spherical object with sharp edges, glowing bright orange, descend slowly and leave a smoke trail.
- Ref. 3/7/3 (Oadby, near Leicester, 16th August, 1971): Mrs. Peggy Metcalf observed a silent, helicopter-like object with no rotor blades, moving slowly with a V-shaped vapour trail, described as "slipper-shaped" and silver.
- Ref. 3/7/4 (Porthcawl, South Wales, 17th August, 1971): Mr. D. H. Cooper described an egg-shaped object in a small dark cloud, which was stationary at high altitude and then climbed steadily towards the north-east, leaving a white and reddish glow.
- Ref. 3/7/5 (Leicester, approx. beginning of Sept., 1971): Mr. M. D. J. Tomlinson noticed a shining object in the sky, stationary, which appeared like flashing sunlight on a mirror.
- Ref. 3/7/6 (Leicester, 3rd Sept. & 24th Sept., 1971): Mr. Edward Remmington saw a strange object moving from north-west to south-east, illuminated brilliantly and emitting a pulsating light. He described it as a sphere of great brilliance.
- Ref. 3/7/7 (Leicester, 5th September, 1971): A witness and his wife saw an object flying in gradually decreasing circles, described as bird-like with oval wings and no central body, flashing silver.
- Ref. 3/7/9 (Leicester, 17th October, 1971): Two boys saw an object moving up and down, turning red when ascending and white when descending, shining brilliantly.
- Ref. 3/7/10 (Ilkeston, Notts., 30th October, 1971): A bus driver and others reported a small round object surrounded by sparks, which flew around the bus. A warning klaxon on a nearby propane tank sounded simultaneously.
- Ref. 3/7/11 (Dartford, before 5th November, 1971): 15-year-old Richard Dann reported a cigar-shaped object with rings of white and red light, which hovered and then shot off.
APRO UFO Symposium
An APRO UFO Symposium was held on 22nd and 23rd November, 1971, at the University of Arizona, Tucson, USA. The event was sponsored by Aerial Phenomena Research Organization Inc. (APRO) and the University of Arizona Student Chapter, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). The symposium aimed to provide information on UFO research, exploring psychological, social, and extra-terrestrial aspects.
Key Speakers and Topics:
- Mr. L. J. Lorenzen and Dr. Russell Peterson: Opened the symposium.
- Dr. J. Allen Hynek: Introduced the meeting, emphasizing its scientific nature.
- Biological Sciences Panel:
- Dr. Frank B. Salisbury: Discussed "UFOs and the Current status of Exobiology," exploring potential forms of extraterrestrial intelligent life.
- Dr. John C. Munday: Presented data for close encounter reports and discussed possible explanations, including physical and electromagnetic effects. He suggested that if close encounter descriptions are reliable, they point to aircraft/spacecraft explanations.
- Dr. Harold A. Cahn: Proposed "Possible paranormal implication of the UFO phenomenon," suggesting that "we see what we believe-not believe what we see."
- Social Sciences Panel:
- Dr. R. Leo Sprinkle: Investigated the types of persons who make UFO reports, concluding that evidence does not support the idea that "kooks and cultists" are the primary source.
- Dr. Emerson W. Shideler: Discussed "A Metaphysic for UFOs," questioning why novelty has difficulty being accepted and suggesting that UFOs would require a radical revision of our worldview.
- Dr. Robert F. Creegan: Offered criteria for UFO reports and discussed investigative techniques, suggesting that "missing links" might shed light on human intelligence and its origins.
- Physical Science Panel:
- Dr. Richard C. Henry: Addressed interstellar flight, accepting time dilation as a means for astronauts to live for millions of years.
- Dr. Walter W. Walker: Discussed the structural analysis of Ubatuba magnesium samples, stating he could not prove extraterrestrial technology but noted unique characteristics.
- Dr. B. Roy Frieden: Reviewed UFO photographs, noting some were fakes, but considered the Trindade Island and McMinnville photographs the best photographic evidence.
- Dr. John S. Derr: Discussed "earthquake lights" as a possible explanation for some UFO reports made near seismic activity.
Symposium Consensus: A phenomenon exists, likely physical and unconventional, with extraterrestrial visitation considered possible but not provable.
BUFORA Report Analysis Card Project
This section details the ongoing development of the BUFORA Report Analysis Card, initiated by Stephen Smith in November 1970. The project aims to create a standardized system for analyzing UFO reports. Modifications have been made to the original design, including adding indicators for "communication," "lights," "sound," "smell," "physical evidence," "physical," "animals," and radar cases. A section for shape coding is planned. The system has been expanded to cover global phenomena, not just the UK and Eire. The artwork is being prepared for photographic reproduction. Initially, the system will be used for unidentified sightings on BUFORA's files, with the goal of developing an "automatic" method for evaluating future reports.
$50,000 UFO REWARD OFFER
The National Enquirer announced a $50,000 award for proof of the existence of UFOs before January 1st, 1973. The reward is for proof that an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) came from outer space and is not a natural phenomenon.
APRO is acting as a consultant organization for this project, with Dr. J. Allen Hynek and other APRO consultants forming the judging board. An additional prize of $5,000 was recommended for "best evidence short of conclusive proof."
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed investigation and analysis of UFO sightings, the scientific approach to understanding the phenomenon, and the ongoing efforts to categorize and evaluate reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious scientific inquiry, acknowledging the existence of unexplained phenomena while seeking conventional explanations where possible, and maintaining an open mind to the possibility of extraterrestrial origins without definitive proof. The magazine encourages reader participation by submitting sighting reports.
Title: UFOLOG
Issue: 3/7
Date: Reports span from November 1971 to March 1972.
Publisher: Not explicitly stated, but associated with BUFORA.
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Contents Overview
This issue of UFOLOG presents a collection of UFO sighting reports, primarily from late 1971 and early 1972, sourced from various local newspapers and the NUFORO BULLETIN. The magazine also includes an editorial note, appraisals of some cases, and information regarding BUFORA and its activities.
Reported Sightings
The issue details several distinct sightings:
- November 10, 1971, Capel St. Mary, Essex: Mr. Bill McCann, his wife, and four children observed a bright red object crossing the sky. Mr. McCann noted it was unlike a normal aircraft and traveled westward. The police had received similar reports.
- December 25, 1971, Kimpton, St. Albans: The Munden family witnessed a 'fiery object' that appeared to break into pieces, with one piece falling and changing to smoke before vanishing. Another object was seen approaching later.
- January 3, 1972, Brightlingsea, Essex: Mr. Philip Edwards was awakened by a rushing sound and saw a great light with orange flashes. His sons also witnessed the event. The police and Army had no explanation.
- January 20, 1972, South Shields: Mr. Jim Todd and three workmates saw five 'roundish' objects in a cross formation over the sea. The objects, colored red, orange, yellow, and blue, were visible for 2-3 minutes.
- February 11, 1972, Loughborough, Leics: Two boys, Halit Akkan and Warren Green, spotted an apparently square object with a central red light and four white corner lights that hovered before sinking towards a field.
- Before March 16, 1972, Swinton, Lancs: Mr. Les Morris, an amateur astronomer, saw a red light, described as the size of a tennis ball, hover for several minutes before vanishing. Manchester Airport reported no air traffic at that time.
- Before March 22, 1972, Swinton, Lancs: Schoolgirls Ellen Chapman and Fiona Cannon reported four red lights, one of which flashed and seemed to lead the others.
UFOLOG Appraisals
A section titled "UFOLOG APPRAISALS" provides brief commentary on various cases, often referencing previous reports (e.g., Ref: 3/6/1, 3/6/2, etc.).
- One appraisal suggests an event was explained by the Air Ministry as a helicopter, with the case still under investigation by the author (A. R. Pace).
- Another appraisal notes that some lights could have normal explanations, but the coincidence of identical dreams among witnesses is intriguing.
- Other appraisals suggest possibilities like balloons, meteors, or fireballs.
- Some reports are deemed "scant" and require more data, while others are considered potentially "outstanding cases" or require "in depth investigation."
- One case (Ref: 3/6/10) is labeled as a "hoax."
- Several reports are attributed to high-flying jet aircraft reflecting the sun.
Editorial Note
The editorial note clarifies that the preceding nine reports were extracted with permission from the "NUFORO BULLETIN." It introduces Nigel Stephenson, a colleague and former associate involved in the formation of BUFORA. The note emphasizes that UFOLOG reports are "raw material" requiring research to determine their inexplicability.
From the Chairman
Roger H. Stanway, writing as Chairman, discusses an upcoming seminar in Staffordshire focused on reviewing and planning BUFORA's future activities. He highlights the association's critical stage of development and calls for member support and loyalty.
Subscription Renewals
A notice reminds members that subscription renewals are due on September 1st, emphasizing their importance for the association's planning.
Contact Information and Branches
The magazine provides contact details for various roles within the association, including Vice-Chairman, General-Honorary Secretary, Subscription Manager, Editor, Librarian, and Research personnel. It also lists branches in Halifax and Northern Ireland, along with information for booking information for a caravan sited at Warminster.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring theme is the reporting and preliminary investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance, as indicated by the "UFOLOG APPRAISALS" and the "EDITORIAL NOTE," is one of cautious inquiry. While acknowledging the possibility of mundane explanations (aircraft, weather, hoaxes), the publication also highlights cases that warrant further investigation and suggests that some events may be genuinely inexplicable. There is a clear emphasis on collecting data and encouraging research within the framework of organizations like BUFORA.