1983 - 3rd International conference, High Wycombe

Magazine Overview

This document comprises materials related to the 3rd International UFO Congress organized by BUFORA (British UFO Research Association), held from August 27th-29th, 1983, in Lane End, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. The materials include a flyer for the congress, a detailed program, and correspondence inviting participation. The congress also served as BUFORA's 21st Anniversary celebration, with a separate conference for this occasion held on September 24, 1983, at the Kensington Central Library in London.

BUFORA's 21st Anniversary Conference (September 24, 1983)

This conference took place at the Lecture Theatre Suite, Kensington Central Library, London W8. It commemorated BUFORA's founding on September 22, 1962, by seven UK UFO societies. The inaugural convention in 1962 was highly successful, with many attendees turned away due to fire regulations. The anniversary conference featured a program starting at 2:15 pm with doors opening, followed by welcoming remarks, a main speaker, and questions. A break for afternoon tea was scheduled for 4:00 pm, and a 'Super Slide Show' by Lionel Beer, FRAS, was presented at 4:45 pm, offering a nostalgic look at UFOs and personalities. The event also included a raffle draw and concluded at 6:30 pm. Special features included a pictorial display, bookstalls, and a raffle. Parking information and ticket costs (Members £2.00, Guests/Non-members £3.00) were provided.

3rd International UFO Congress (August 27-29, 1983)

This congress was held in the village of Lane End, near High Wycombe, utilizing the facilities of the Lorch Foundation for daytime events and the Lane End Conference Centre for accommodation. The event was extended to three days to accommodate numerous presentation offers. The invitation, signed by Robert S. Digby, Chairman of BUFORA Ltd, highlighted the quality of speakers, including eminent researchers from the USA (Dr. J. Allen Hynek, Dr. Harley Rutledge), Canada (Stanton T. Friedman), Australia (Paul Norman), and Austria (Dr. Alex Keul), alongside prominent UK researchers. The congress anticipated attendance from at least 23 countries, with a limit of 225 delegates, a reduction from the over 400 who attended Dr. Hynek's 1979 address. Tickets were available from the Congress Secretariat at 5 Vardens Road, London SW11 1RQ.

Congress Timetable

Saturday, August 27th: The day began with registrations and the bookshop/exhibition opening at 9:00 am. Presentations included:

• 'A Modern Estimate of the Situation; An Overview' by Robert S. Digby.
• 'Project Identification' by Dr. Harley Rutledge, USA.
• 'Danish Scientists and the UFO Phenomenon' by Per Andersen.
• 'An Evaluation of the Evidence for UFO Events from Radar Observations' by Peter Warrington, U.K.
• A Video Presentation by Harry Harris on 'Hypnotic Regression of the UFO Witness'.

A Congress Dinner was scheduled at the Lane End Centre.

Sunday, August 28th: The day focused on:

• 'Opening Up The Windows' by Jenny Randles.
• 'The Peter Day Film - A Case Study'.
• 'Flying Saucers ARE Real' by Dr. Stanton T. Friedman.
• 'The Bass Strait Flap' by Paul Norman.
• 'Measurables & Non-Measurables in UFO Research' by Bertil Kuhlemann.

An evening dinner was planned at the Lane End Centre.

Monday, August 29th: The final day included:

• 'The Cosmic Life Line', Parts 1 & 2 by Ali AbuTaha.
• 'Project Hessdalen' by UFO Sweden/UFO Norway groups.
• 'Earthlights' by Paul Devereux.
• A report from PICUR (The Provisional International Committee on UFO Research).
• 'The Liars and the Lunatics, and what we can learn from them' by Hilary Evans.

The congress concluded with the result of the prize draw.

Venue and Accommodation Details

The Lorch Foundation: Established by Walter Lorch, this centre is dedicated to providing a venue for institutions, associations, and individuals to share knowledge. Opened in 1973, it offers comprehensive facilities, including a lecture theatre with raked seating for 225, superb acoustics, and audio-visual equipment. The Octogon Room is available for various functions. The staff are trained to provide personal service, and the premises are fully licensed.

Lane End Conference Centre: Located in 26 acres of countryside, it offers purpose-built accommodation for conferences and training courses. It features three self-contained units with single study bedrooms, private bathrooms, reception, lounge, bar, and dining areas. Recreation facilities include a swimming pool, squash courts, table tennis, and more. The kitchens are modern, and catering is a high standard. Accommodation is limited to 99 residents, and booking is on a first-come, first-served basis. The Centre is accessible via the M40 and M4 motorways and main line rail services.

Booking and Notes

The 3-day residential rate included dinner and accommodation from Friday (26th) through Monday morning, plus admission to all congress sessions, coffee/tea breaks, buffet lunch, the hypnotic regression video presentation, and use of Lane End facilities. The cost for this package was £40.50 for members and £40.00 for non-members (as indicated in a special offer section, though the main text implies a different structure). A Congress only rate included admission and session breaks, with optional buffet lunch available for £3.50. Accommodation at Lane End could be booked separately at £27.00 per night per head, including dinner, accommodation, breakfast, and facilities use. Non-residents could attend the Congress Dinner for £10.00 (members) or £10.50 (non-members). A complimentary shuttle service operated between High Wycombe Station and Lane End. A surcharge applied for non-residents attending the hypnotic regression video presentation. Delegates received a ticket with seat allocation and travel information. Evening dinner on Friday the 26th was at 8:30 pm.

Alternative Accommodation

A list of hotels and guest houses in the High Wycombe, West Wycombe, Marlow, Hambleden, Stokenchurch, and Turville areas was provided for delegates to make their own arrangements. Bed and breakfast options in private accommodation were also listed. BUFORA Ltd stated they could not be held responsible for any shortcomings in these establishments.

Special Offer to Non-Members

Non-members could join BUFORA for £12.50 to receive discounted congress tickets, saving £5.00. Membership would commence on September 1st, 1983, with publications sent after that date.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme is the promotion and organization of UFO research and conferences within the UK and internationally. BUFORA positions itself as a central body for UFO research, celebrating its history and actively engaging prominent researchers and the public. The editorial stance is one of serious inquiry into UFO phenomena, evident in the selection of speakers and the detailed, organized nature of the congress and conference materials. There is a clear effort to provide comprehensive information to attendees, covering logistics, program details, and historical context, while also encouraging new members and participation.

This document pertains to the "Congress 89", the 5th International UFO Congress, held from July 14-16, 1989. The event brought together numerous international speakers and researchers to discuss various aspects of the UFO phenomenon. The publication includes a program of events, biographical notes on speakers, and a welcoming message from the Congress Director.

Speakers and Presentations

Friday, July 14th, 1989

• Dr. J. Allen Hynek: A leading authority on UFOs, formerly with Project Bluebook, presented an overall look at the UFO scene. His scientific status and experience were highlighted.
• Ali Abutaha: Presented his 'Cosmic Life-Line Theory', an integration of scientific subjects to argue for abundant extraterrestrial life. He has a background in communication satellite systems and extensive research.
• Harry Harris: A solicitor, discussed his interest in UFOs and presented on the hypnotic regression of UFO witnesses, including video tape presentations.
• Paul Devereux: Editor of "The Ley Hunter", spoke about theories from his book "Earthlights", current research into 'earth energies', and new information.
• Per Andersen: Discussed the views of Danish scientists on the UFO phenomenon and presented research findings from Denmark's UFODATA project.
• Dr. Harley Rutledge: Presented findings from a seven-year field study on UFO phenomena, detailed in his book "PROJECT IDENTIFICATION".
• Stanton T. Friedman: Shared his extensive experience in nuclear and space systems, and his work as a lecturer and author on UFO topics, including "The Roswell Incident".
• Hilary Evans: Discussed 'Balls of Light', advocating a multi-disciplinary approach to UFO studies and exploring psychological and sociological parameters.
• Paul Norman: Presented on the Bass Strait flap, focusing on the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich during an aerial encounter with a UFO.
• Bertil Kuhlemann: Addressed the importance of taking a stand on the UFO subject and how research results relate to this. He is a co-founder of 'Project URD' and 'UFO-Sweden'.
• Claude Mauge: Presented on "An Attempt to Define the UFO".
• Phil Mantle: Discussed the "Barnsley Photographic Hoax".
• Lionel Beer: Gave an after-dinner talk on "UFOs Portrayed in Cartoons".

Saturday, July 15th, 1989

• News Updates: Anamnesis Research and a rundown of UK cases were presented.
• Bertil Kuhlemann: Spoke on "Taking a Stand on the UFO Subject".
• Paul Fuller: Presented on "Corn Circles".
• Cynthia Hind: Discussed "Close Encounter Effects on People in Africa".
• Walt Andrus: Presented the "Gulf Breeze Photographic Case".
• Film Night: Included "UFO Experience" and "Police Video Incident".

Sunday, July 16th, 1989

• News Updates: MJ12 was discussed.
• M. Verga/G. Grassino: Presented on "Italian UFO Research in the 80's".
• John Spencer: Discussed "Witness-Driven Investigations".
• Abduction Debate Feedback: A panel discussed feedback from the abduction panel.
• Gulf Breeze: A final word on the Gulf Breeze case.
• Congress Feedback: Official close of Congress 89.

Key Themes and Topics

• Scientific Investigation: Many speakers emphasized the need for a scientific and rational approach to UFO investigation, including Dr. J. Allen Hynek and Dr. Harley Rutledge.
• Abductions: A significant portion of the congress was dedicated to the controversial topic of abductions, with a dedicated debate and panel discussion.
• Extraterrestrial Life: The existence and nature of extraterrestrial life were explored, notably through Ali Abutaha's 'Cosmic Life-Line Theory'.
• Specific Cases: Several well-known cases were presented, including the Bass Strait flap, the Gulf Breeze photographic case, and the Hessdalen phenomenon in Norway.
• UFOs as Physical Craft: The idea of UFOs being advanced craft was a recurring theme, supported by photographic evidence and witness testimonies.
• 'Balls of Light': Hilary Evans presented research on 'Balls of Light' (BOL), suggesting they might be a distinct phenomenon from typical UFO sightings.
• Public Perception and Secrecy: The difficulty in getting the existence of UFOs publicly accepted was highlighted by Bertil Kuhlemann, who questioned the forces at play.

Organizations and Collaboration

Congress 89 was organized by an entity specifically formed for the event. It received support from sponsoring organizations including MUFON Inc, Bufora Ltd, and ICUR (International Committee for UFO Research), along with various other international UFO groups. This collaborative approach was seen as necessary due to the cost and complexity of organizing such a large event.

Director's Welcoming Message

Robert S. Digby, Congress Director, welcomed attendees and emphasized the importance of international communication and learning within the UFO subject matter. He acknowledged the difficult decisions made in program content and apologized for any papers not included due to constraints. He thanked all supporters and encouraged delegates to enjoy the event and engage with each other.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of Congress 89 was the serious scientific investigation of UFO phenomena. The organizers aimed for impartial investigation, particularly concerning the controversial topic of abductions. The event showcased a diverse range of speakers with backgrounds in science, law, and research, all contributing to a comprehensive exploration of UFO sightings, theories, and evidence. The stance promoted is one of open inquiry and a desire to understand the phenomenon, rather than adhering to a single corporate viewpoint.

This document, comprising pages 6 through 12 of a publication, focuses on the "SPEAKER ROUND-UP" for an event, likely a congress or conference, organized by Bufora Ltd. The content details the speakers, their backgrounds, and the topics of their presentations, primarily centered around ufology, UFO investigations, and related phenomena. The publication also includes domestic notices and acknowledgments.

Speakers and Presentations

Page 6: Speaker Round-Up

The "SPEAKER ROUND-UP" section begins with an apology for the brevity of the Who's Who entries due to space constraints, encouraging direct contact with speakers. It introduces several key figures:

• Sir Patrick Wall: President of Bufora Ltd and organizer of the event.
• Hilary Evans: A well-known author and lecturer.
• Claude Mauge: Will discuss 'An Attempt to Define the UFO'. He studied Physics and Psychology and is a teacher with interests in psychological, parapsychological, and sociological aspects of ufology.
• Philip Mantle: Director of Bufora Ltd and representative of MUFON for England. He is also a founder of the Yorkshire-based Independent UFO Network. His talk will cover a photographic hoax case from Barnsley, Yorkshire.
• Lionel Beer: Past Chairman and current Vice-President of Bufora Ltd, also a specialist book-seller. He will present a review of UFOs in cartoons as the after-dinner speaker.
• Bertil Kuhlemann: Will present a paper titled 'Taking A Stand'.
• Paul Fuller: Director of Bufora Ltd and co-author of 'Mystery of the Circles' (1986). He is an active field investigator for Bufora and holds degrees in Geography and Statistics. His paper is titled 'And What If I'm Wrong?'

Page 7: Speaker Round-Up (Continued)

This page continues the speaker introductions:

• Cynthia Hind: Born in South Africa, educated in Cape Town, she has lived in Africa and Zimbabwe, writing on travel, history, and African commentary. She became involved in researching UFO stories and is now the MUFON co-ordinator for Africa. Her paper is 'After the Contact, What then?'
• Walt Andrus: Will talk on Gulf Breeze and provide a news update on MJ12.
• Jenny Randles: Director of Investigations for Bufora since 1978, she is a full-time writer and broadcaster. She was a founder of the Northern UFO Network and joined the Manchester UFO Research Association. She will participate in the Abduction Debate and a UK UFO reports update.
• Milos Krmelj: Founder of the only active UFO Society in Yugoslavia and editor of a UFO/Fortean publication. He is the MUFON representative for Yugoslavia and will present a news update on UFO reports from Yugoslavia.
• Ken Philips: Former National Investigations Co-ordinator for Bufora, known for his work with Dr. Alex Keul on witness life histories (ANAMNESIS). He will present a news update on his research.
• Maurizio Verga and Gian Paolo Grassino: Directors of the Centro Italiano Studi Ufologici in Torino, Italy. They will present a paper on 'Italian UFO Research in the 80s'.
• John Spencer: Will talk on 'Witness-driven Investigations'.

Page 8: John Spencer - Witness-driven Investigations

This page details John Spencer's work on the abduction phenomenon. His research focuses on actual abduction incidents and the methodology of investigators, highlighting the influence of media and pressures on witnesses. He concludes that dangerous mistakes are being made within the UFO community. His presentation will argue that prominent facts of the abduction phenomenon may be falsely created by investigators, that witnesses are ignored, and that investigators' involvement hinders objectivity. He suggests that the truth behind abductions may be extraordinary but will not be learned until investigations are "witness-driven" rather than "investigator-driven".

Biographical Notes: John Spencer has been a director of BUFORA for nine years and is its Vice-Chairman. He is joint editor of BUFORA's publications "UFOS 1947-1987" and "Phenomenon". His book "Perspectives", a review of the abduction phenomenon based on his research, is scheduled for publication in January 1990. He is continuing investigations into abductions in Sweden, Florida, and the UK. He is also an officer of ICUR and a research specialist for MUFON in the USA.

Page 9: Walter H. Andrus, Jr. - Gulf Breeze Photographic Case

Walter H. Andrus, Jr. presents a slide-illustrated lecture on the Gulf Breeze photographic case, which began on November 11th, 1987. The case involves ongoing incidents, over sixty photographs, and the testimony of over 100 residents, generating significant controversy.

Biographical Notes: Walt Andrus is a founding member of MUFON (1969) and International Director of the Mutual UFO Network, Inc. since 1970. He has served on the staff of SKYLOOK and the MUFON UFO JOURNAL and is currently the Associate Editor. He graduated from the Central Technical Institute and the U.S. Navy Electronics Technician Program. He worked for Mid-Continent Airlines and Motorola, Inc. for nearly 34 years before retiring to focus on the Mutual UFO Network. MUFON's administrative office moved to Seguin, Texas, where it became a Texas Nonprofit Corporation. Walt and his wife Jeanne are members of the First Presbyterian Church in Seguin. His son, Donald, is an attorney and part of MUFON's legal staff. Walt's interest in UFOs began on August 15, 1948, with a daylight sighting of four UFOs. He is an amateur radio operator (W5VRN) and obtained a private pilot's license in 1947. He has presented lectures internationally and appeared on national television programs discussing UFOs.

Page 10: Domestic Notices

This page provides essential notices for the smooth running of Congress 89:

• Smoking: A strict NO SMOKING policy is in effect in the theatres; smoking is permitted outside and in the lounge area during breaks.
• Photography: The official photographer is John Shaw. Photography during lectures is STRICTLY PROHIBITED.
• Punctuality: Punctuality is essential for the timetable. Attendees are asked to enter and exit lectures quietly.
• Badges: Badges display authority and right to attend sessions. For doubts, contact the House Manager or staff.
• Sound Recording: Mr Robin Lindsey is the official sound recordist. Tapes of lectures can be obtained from him. Microphones and tape recorders should not be placed near speakers or the rostrum.
• Questions: Questions should be confined to the end of presentations, with cooperation from staff using roving microphones.
• General: Attendees are asked to be reasonable and enjoy the Congress.

The notice is signed by Robert S Digby, Congress Director.

Page 11: About ICUR...

This section explains the International Committee for UFO Research (ICUR), which originated from the First London International UFO Congress in 1979. ICUR aims to bring together global groups to establish standards, research methodologies, and address common problems in UFO research. It lists organizations with whom ICUR is in dialogue, including BUFORA, MUFON, CUFOS, and others from various countries. The executive committee of ICUR is administered by BUFORA Ltd, with Robert S Digby as Chairman, Stephen J Gamble as Secretary, John L Spencer as Treasurer, and Walter H Andrus Jr. as Vice Chairman. Contact information for ICUR is provided.

Page 12: Our Special Thanks Are Due.....

This page expresses gratitude to the staff, helpers, and organizations that contributed to the event. Financial resourcing was provided by a number of sources. Special thanks are extended to organizations such as Eyecatchers Audio-Visual, MRW Electronics, Bufora Ltd, MUFON Inc., ICUR, Rowlands Video Productions, John Shaw Photography, and the London Business School. Resources were also made available by Messrs Connor, Spencer & Co. Special thanks are given to Paul Norman, who acted as a "travelling diplomat" but was unable to attend. The presenters are thanked for their understanding regarding costs and expenses, noting that no one was fully reimbursed, which is considered a form of sponsorship. The message concludes by thanking everyone who helped, acknowledging that not all names could be mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are ufology, UFO investigation, and the presentation of research findings and case studies. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting and facilitating the exchange of information and research within the UFO community, as evidenced by the organization of the congress, the introduction of speakers, and the emphasis on international cooperation through ICUR. There is a clear focus on both the phenomena themselves and the methodologies used to investigate them, with a particular interest in witness testimony and the potential biases in investigator-driven research, as highlighted by John Spencer's presentation.