BUFORA Bulletin - No 02 - Nov 1981

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No. 002
Date: November 1981
Publisher: BUFORA Limited
Country: United Kingdom

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin serves as a comprehensive update for its members, focusing on administrative matters, upcoming events, and ongoing research initiatives within the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA).

Contents and Key Articles

AGM Notices and Reports

The bulletin leads with "AGM notes," emphasizing the importance of the Annual General Meeting as a time for accounting and member participation. It includes various reports such as the Chairman's Report, Council Report, Treasurer's Statement, and Auditors Report, providing a financial and operational overview of the association for the year ended 31st August 1981. The agenda for the Sixth Annual General Meeting, scheduled for 6th December 1981, is also detailed, outlining the business to be conducted, including the election of council members and the appointment of an auditor.

BUFORA National Conference: Edinburgh 1982

Details are provided for the upcoming BUFORA National Conference to be held at the George Hotel in Edinburgh on March 13th-14th, 1982. The conference will feature papers on the scientific approach to ufology and a dedicated seminar on the "LIVINGSTON close encounter case." The event will be opened by a "well known personality" and will conclude with a visit to the site of the Livingston encounter.

New Working Liaison Between Local Groups

An article by Jenny Randles (Apl 81) discusses the formation and progress of a new working liaison between local UFO groups in the UK. It highlights the role of The Northern UFO Network (NUFON), established in 1974, and MAUFOG (Members of the affiliated UFO Groups), formed in 1979. The article details efforts, particularly through UFOSIS (West Midlands group), to create an inter-network information flow and a joint code of practice for UFO investigation. The goal is to foster cooperative endeavors and potentially establish a joint resources center. The article mentions a meeting on March 28th involving representatives from various groups, including BUFORA, and notes the active participation of BUFORA Chairman, Leslie Bayer.

London Lectures 1981/82

A schedule of lectures for the 1981/82 season at the Kensington Central Library is listed. Topics include "The UFO Cover-up" by the Rt. Hon. Earl of Clancarty, "Southern Stranger" by Omar Fowler, and "Substance and Shadow in the ETH" by Robert Morrell. The schedule also notes an AGM followed by films on December 5th.

Amnesia in Close Encounter Witnesses

Authored by Moira McGhee, this article explores the persistent problem of amnesia experienced by some UFO contactee witnesses. It discusses how this memory lapse complicates investigations and how scientific understanding of memory formation (DNA, RNA, protein synthesis) suggests that advanced intelligence could potentially manipulate memory. The article advocates for open-minded investigation of such cases and attention to details recalled under hypnosis to understand the methods used to prevent normal memory storage.

BUFORA Limited: Report of the Council of Management

• The Report of the Council of Management covers the twelve months ended 31st August, 1981. Key points include:
• Principal Activities: Encouraging and conducting unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena, collecting and disseminating evidence, and coordinating UFO research.
• Membership: Decreased from 691 in 1980 to 572 in 1981. Thanks are extended to the Membership Secretary, Miss Pam Kennedy.
• Lectures: 10 lectures were held at Kensington Central Library, covering various aspects of Ufology, including the Livingston close encounter case.
• Publications: Three issues of the BUFORA Journal were published under Norman Oliver's editorship. Due to financial constraints (costing nearly £1,000 per issue), the Journal's publication was suspended, and a lower-cost publication, the BUFORA Bulletin, was introduced in September, with plans to restore the Journal when funds allow. The "Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena" was also published.
• Booklet: "An Introduction to BUFORA" was produced for new members.
• Conferences: BUFORA was represented at a meeting of the Provisional International Committee for UFO Research (PICUR) in Copenhagen in October 1980, where Peter Hill was elected Chairman and Secretary. The 2nd International Congress of BUFORA was held in London in May 1981, with an attendance affected by the recession but featuring notable speakers. Discussion groups were led by Bob Morrell, Jenny Randles, and Arnold West.
• Research: Peter Hill continues to process sighting reports using a Punched Card Analysis system, with plans to transition to a new computer-based system in 1982. An article on "Electro-Magnetic Effects of U.F.O.'s on Vehicles" was provided for "The Unexplained" magazine.
• Investigations: Following Larry Dale's resignation, Maureen Hall took over as National Investigations Co-Ordinator, and a National Investigation Committee was formed, chaired by Hall as Director of Investigations.
• Training: A pilot training seminar for investigators was held in December 1980, with a need for a Training Officer.
• Sighting Reports: 1981 proved to be a low report year with 27 sightings.
• Council: Lord Kings Norton was elected President, and Arnold West was elected Vice Chairman. A list of Council members as of 31st August 1981 is provided.
• Retiring Members: Several Council members are retiring by rotation and offering themselves for re-election.

Notice of Annual General Meeting

A formal notice is given for the Sixth Annual General Meeting of BUFORA Limited, to be held at the Kensington Central Library on Saturday, 5th December 1981, at 7 p.m. The notice details the procedures for appointing proxies and nominating candidates for the Council of Management.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the organizational health and future direction of BUFORA. There is a strong emphasis on cooperation, both internally through the AGM and reporting, and externally through the formation of liaisons with other UFO research groups. The association appears committed to scientific research, evidence collection, and member education through lectures and publications. The editorial stance, as implied by the "Members Only" section and the emphasis on the AGM, is one of encouraging active member participation and transparency in the running of the association. The challenges of funding publications and the need for investigator training are also evident concerns.

The article on witness amnesia suggests a forward-thinking approach to understanding the psychological and potentially technological aspects of UFO encounters. The overall tone is one of dedicated effort to advance the field of ufology in the United Kingdom through organized research and collaboration.

This document is a collection of financial reports and organizational minutes for BUFORA LIMITED, alongside a specialized bulletin on historical UFO sightings and a book review. The primary content includes the Treasurer's Statement, the Auditor's Report, Balance Sheet, and Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending August 31, 1981. It also features the Chairman's Report, Minutes of the Fifth Annual General Meeting held on December 6, 1980, a list of donations, and a 'Pre-1947 UFO Bulletin No.1'.

Treasurer's Statement

The Treasurer's Statement, presented by J. L. Spencer ACA, highlights a year of financial struggle for BUFORA. The association faced inherited difficulties, overspending, and a lack of reserves. Necessary measures were implemented, including an increase in membership costs and the discontinuation of the 'Bufora Journal' in favor of a more frequent, lower-cost 'Bulletin'. These measures were effective in reducing the year's loss. The statement expresses optimism for the upcoming year, aiming for financial soundness to increase funding for publications, research, and investigation, thereby maintaining BUFORA's leading position in 'Ufology'.

Auditor's Report

G. H. Connor, Chartered Accountant, provides an unqualified audit report on the attached Balance Sheet, Income and Expenditure account, and notes. The accounts, prepared under the Historical Cost Convention, are stated to give a true and fair view of the company's affairs as of August 31, 1981, and comply with the Companies Act 1948 to 1980.

Financial Statements (Balance Sheet, Income & Expenditure Account)

The Balance Sheet as at August 31, 1981, shows fixed assets at a net book value of £1. Current assets totaled £1299 in 1981, compared to £1073 in 1980. Net current liabilities were £1180 in 1981, up from £721 in 1980. The General Fund showed a deficiency of £1265 in 1981, an increase from £928 in 1980. The Research Fund had a surplus of £50 in 1981, down from £207 in 1980. The Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended August 31, 1981, reported an excess of expenditure over income of £337, an improvement from £996 in the previous year. Income sources included subscriptions, enrolment fees, donations, and bank interest, while expenditure covered journal printing, research activities, administration, and London lecture costs.

Chairman's Report

L. W. Bayer, Chairman, describes the past year as worrying due to financial constraints, which inhibited the Council's ability to pursue member-desired initiatives. He notes the paradox of members expecting income increases while resisting subscription hikes. Despite efforts, the association operated at a loss, though the loss was halved compared to the previous year. The BUFORA subscription was set at £10 per annum from September 1, 1981, with expectations of operating on a firm basis thereafter. An application for a grant from the Royal Society for a research program was unsuccessful. The report thanks members and friends for their donations. The 2nd London International Congress was a major event, strengthening international links and providing a platform for discussion. The Congress did not drain resources and contributed to reducing losses. BUFORA has been involved in establishing a Code of Ethics/Practice for investigators and is exploring a more selective approach to appointing and training investigators. The Chairman appeals to members to recruit new members to avoid future subscription increases.

Minutes of the Fifth Annual General Meeting (December 6, 1980)

The minutes detail the proceedings of the AGM, attended by approximately 38 members. Apologies for absence were noted. The Chairman, Mr. L.W. Bayer, updated his report, highlighting the serious problem of reduced funds and the council's efforts to improve the situation, welcoming donations. He clarified the role of Mr. Peter Hill as Secretary of the Edinburgh Branch. Mr. Larry Dale resigned as National Investigations Co-ordinator, with plans to proceed with the Training Course for Investigators. The Library Service was taken over by Mr. R. Lindsey. Significant work was underway for the International Congress, with overseas speakers committed. The Chairman sadly reported the deaths of Captain Ivar Mackay and Mr. John Cleary Baker. The Treasurer's Report, given by the Chairman, detailed the resignation of Mr. W. Grunau and the financial challenges, including increasing costs and decreasing income. Investigations into new income sources, such as a nominal charge for refreshments, were discussed. The Director of Research reported on the establishment of an Editorial Board for the 'Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena' (JTAP). The Provisional International Committee for UFO Research (PICUR) was mentioned, with a meeting in Denmark. Financial limitations caused delays in publications, but the 'Vehicle Interference Project' and 'Radar Report Catalogue' were planned. The adoption of the Council of Management's Report, Auditor's Report, and Accounts was unanimously approved after minor amendments. The appointment of Messrs. G.H. Connor as auditor was proposed and approved. Three vacancies on the Council were filled by Mrs. Maureen Hall, Mr. P. Hill, and Mr. J.P. Spencer (Treasurer). Mr. C. Lockwood was co-opted to the Editorial Board of JTAP. Miss Pamela Kennedy was awarded an MBE. Suggestions for fund-raising through raffles and holding meetings earlier were made.

Donations

A list of individuals who made generous donations to BUFORA Ltd. during the year ended August 31, 1981, is provided, along with a list of those who responded to a special appeal for donations and new member contacts.

Pre-1947 UFO Bulletin No.1

This bulletin focuses on pre-1947 UFO sightings. It aims to publicize and review relevant factual and fictional material, with a bias towards 'airship' sightings from the turn of the century. The inaugural issue features a review of Arthur Conan Doyle's short story 'Horror of the Heights' (published in The Strand Magazine, November 1913). The story revolves around a manuscript found near a crashed monoplane, detailing suspicions of 'jungles of the upper air' and encounters with strange aerial phenomena. The bulletin also includes a description of a sighting by Joyce-Armstrong at 41,000 feet of a large, pulsating, jelly-fish-like object and 'serpents of the outer air'. The bulletin invites contributions and offers to compile listings of 'airship' articles.

Book Review

'Casebook of a UFO Investigator' by Raymond E. Fowler is reviewed by T. Huntington. The book is praised for its comprehensive presentation of UFO investigations from 1947 to the present, including mis-reports and genuine cases of solid craft, alien contact, and abductions. The reviewer highlights Fowler's quality as an investigator and writer, recommending the book as a serious attempt to find answers to the UFO problem.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the financial health and operational challenges of BUFORA LIMITED, its efforts to maintain its position as a leading organization in ufology, and the ongoing pursuit of UFO research. The editorial stance, as reflected in the Treasurer's and Chairman's reports, is one of determined effort to overcome financial difficulties and continue the organization's work. The 'Pre-1947 UFO Bulletin' indicates a specific interest in historical aspects of the UFO phenomenon, while the book review suggests a preference for research that acknowledges unexplained phenomena rather than dismissing them. The overall tone is one of perseverance and a commitment to the study of ufology.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, dated June 1981, focuses on correspondence and brief reports related to UFO phenomena in the United Kingdom. The primary content includes a letter to the editor discussing the organizational landscape of UFO research in Britain and several brief reports detailing specific UFO sightings.

Correspondence

The issue opens with a letter from Bob Easton, an Area Investigator and R.I.C. for BUFORA Ltd. Easton expresses his feelings about the 'state of the art' in UFO investigation in Britain. He identifies two main investigational bodies: BUFORA Ltd and UFOIN. Easton notes BUFORA's prestige, resources, and publications but criticizes its investigational field, citing a lack of competent investigators and an over-reliance on 'hobbyists'. He highlights the formation of UFOIN in 1977 by Jenny Randles, a former BUFORA Council member, which he states heralded an improvement in British investigational standards and the reporting of 'high strangeness' cases. UFOIN is praised for its focus on significant cases and its ability to attract leading investigators. However, Easton points out that UFOIN is not a membership organization and thus lacks the advantageous position of BUFORA for pursuing evaluation and publication. He suggests a possible affiliation or 'merger' of ideals between BUFORA and UFOIN for the future benefit of UFO research in the UK and encourages comment on this proposal.

A second letter, from Hilary Evans in London, dated July 1981, recounts a pleasant time attending the NUFOC's annual get-together in Norway. Evans mentions meeting sympathetic Norwegian ufologists with ambitious plans, particularly their focus on the technological side of UFOs. He offers to connect a young Norwegian engineer, Hans-Kurt Karlsen of the Norsk UFO Center, who is developing a magnetic field detector for UFOs, with any BUFORA member working in the same field. Karlsen's technical leaflet is available in Norwegian, but the technical parts are international, and he speaks perfect English.

Awards and Publications

This section details an award presented at the BUFORA International Congress 1981. The Fund for UFO Research (FUFOR) awarded a cash grant to the publishers of UFO Phenomena International Annual Review (UPIAR), described as the only international journal devoted to a scientific examination of Unidentified Flying Objects. The presentation was made by Dr. Bruce Maccabee, Chairman of FUFOR, who stated that for years, UFO research lacked a reputable referred journal. He commended UPIAR, an Italian publication since 1976, for its scientific reporting. FUFOR is a scientific non-profit organization that channels public contributions into UFO research and education. FUFOR also announced a $1,000 grant for the best published UFO research in 1981, named in honor of Dr. Alvin H. Lawson, to be awarded in Spring 1982. Contact information for UPIAR and FUFOR is provided.

Brief Reports

This section presents several brief reports of UFO sightings, with investigator (Inv.) and witness (Wit.) details, dates, times, and locations:

• Ref. 1981/7: On February 9, 1981, at 20:45 GMT, in Lancashire, two witnesses saw a bright light moving across the sky. They stopped their car to observe it hover for about thirty seconds before it moved slowly, then rapidly departed. The incident lasted about a minute, and afterwards, both witnesses felt they were 'being watched'.
• Ref. 1980/90: On December 6, 1980, Mr. T. Sewell observed a bright cylindrical shaped object in the sky through his bungalow window. Using binoculars, he described the object as a long narrow rectangle surrounded by a bright yellow glow, so large that he had to move the binoculars to scan it completely. He watched it move away and disappear behind a railway bridge.
• Ref. 1980/93: On December 27, 1980, at 06:15 GMT, in Saltash, Cornwall, Mrs. M. Preston observed what appeared to be a bright star in the south. Upon further observation, she saw it changing colour from orange to red and back, seemingly rotating within itself. The object moved silently across the sky and disappeared in the SE after two or three minutes. The morning was fine, clear, and cold.
• Ref. 1979/257: On October 21, 1979, at 22:00 GMT, in Devon, Julian Wallis (12) and a friend saw a 'jet shaped' white object in the North Westerly sky. The object flew an undulating path, descending to about ten feet at one point before regaining its previous height. It then disappeared towards the North East. The object had no lights and was completely silent.
• Ref. 79/259: On January 11, 1979, at 16:20 GMT, in Leycett, Staffordshire, Mr. R. Clarke observed a long slim horizontal object moving from right to left, just above the full moon. The object appeared to glow a bright orange/red, with a steady light and no visible trail. It was watched for about thirty seconds.

Advertisements

Page 4 contains advertisements for BUFORA Publications, including "UFO Investigation", "Congress '79", and "Vehicle Interference", with prices listed for single copies, members, and trade. It also advertises BUFORA Periodicals: "BUFORA Journal" and "Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena", and "BUFORA Bulletin", with details available upon request. Publications are available from Arnold West in Burgess Hill, Sussex, England. Terms are cash with order, trade-official order, and members should quote their membership number. A disclaimer states that the British UFO Research Association does not hold or express corporate views on UFO phenomena, and contributions reflect the views of the editor or authors.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the organization and methodology of UFO research in the UK, the reporting of specific sightings, and the promotion of BUFORA's publications. The editorial stance, as conveyed through the correspondence, appears to be one of seeking improvement and collaboration within the UFO research community, particularly between established organizations like BUFORA and more specialized groups like UFOIN. There is an emphasis on the need for rigorous investigation and quality reporting of UFO phenomena.