BUFORA Bulletin - No 06 - Nov 1982

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No 006
Date: November 1982
Publisher: British UFO Research Association (BUFORA)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated November 1982, presents a comprehensive report on the organization's activities, including the AGM report and accounts. It also features several detailed case summaries of UFO sightings and encounters investigated by BUFORA, alongside articles and commentary on UFO phenomena.

BUFORA Council Meeting and Tributes

The issue opens with a report on the BUFORA Council meeting held in London on September 4th, 1982. The meeting began with tributes to the late Mrs Anne Harcourt and to Miss Betty Wood, who had retired after 15 years as the Association's Secretary. Leslie Bayer chaired the meeting, and the afternoon discussion covered various organizational matters, including the publication of the Livingston case history report, 1983 subscription rates, Council nominations, publicity, new members, and the reorganisation of the research department. Detailed reports were presented by John Spencer (Treasurer), John Shaw (1983 Congress organiser), Arnold West (Publications), Jenny Randles (Investigations), Pam Kennedy (Membership), and Peter Kill (Research). The report notes that Council meetings are informal and lively.

Evening Lecture and Obituary

In the evening following the Council meeting, Peter Warrington delivered a lecture at Kensington Central Library titled "There is More to UFOs Than Meets The Eye." The lecture attracted a good attendance, and Warrington's controversial statements, suggesting UFOs do not represent alien intelligence and that witnesses often misinterpret what they see, prompted audience discussion. He also discussed physical trace evidence and linked UFO abductions to birth trauma theories. Jenny Randles chaired this lecture.

The issue also includes an obituary for Mrs Sylvia Anne Harcourt, who passed away on August 20th, 1982. Mrs Harcourt had served BUFORA for many years, notably as Membership Secretary and organiser of the lecture programme. Her enthusiasm and advice were greatly appreciated.

Subscriptions and Conference Announcement

BUFORA announced an increase in subscription rates, citing rising costs of printing and postage. The new annual subscription is £12.50, effective from November 1st, 1982 for new members and from December 31st, 1982 for renewals. Members will now receive two issues of J-TAP, four BUFORA Bulletins, and four Probe Reports annually. The association is also holding its Third International Congress at the Lorch Foundation Conference Centre from August 27th-29th, 1983, featuring speakers such as Allen Hynek, Bertil Kuhlemann, Sue Blackmore, Alex Keul, and Stanton F. Friedman.

Dates for Your Diary

• Upcoming BUFORA lectures and events are listed:
• November 6th, 1982: Robert Morrell on "UFOs. A Scientific Enigma Or a Modern Myth?"
• December 4th, 1982: BUFORA AGM followed by Jenny Randles' talk on "The OZ Factor."
• February 5th, 1983: Richard Beet on "To Ride Pegasus."

Case Summaries

The Sign Of The Cross (Case 75-501, December 22nd, 1975, Luton, Bedfordshire):
This case involves Mrs S and her daughter, who reported seeing a stationary, cross-shaped object emitting bright white light. Mrs S described a penetrating, droning sound, though she could not hear it clearly. The object reappeared the following night and vanished. The report raises questions about whether the object was interpreted as a religious vision and discusses the relevance of Mrs S's perforated eardrum to her inability to detect the sound.

Childhood Fantasy or Close Encounter? (CASE 81-042, January 4th, 1981, Seafield, West Lothian, Scotland):
Fourteen-year-old Wendy Park reported seeing a large object, described as "as large as four family cars," hovering nearby. The object had pulsing red and orange lights, and appeared to be three-dimensional and spherical. Two cats allegedly fled the scene. The report notes similarities to a case involving PC Alan Godfrey.

Another Traveller To The Land Of Oz (CASE 81-045, May 26th, 1981, Pitsea, Essex):
A couple described a small, squat, flattened bullet-shaped object with a front grill of spotlights and a pulsing red light on the underside. The object moved slowly and wobbled, exhibiting the "Oz Factor," which includes a strange feeling of calmness, sensory deprivation, and time suspension or distortion. The encounter, which logically should have lasted minutes, was subjectively experienced as 25 minutes.

The New Zealand Sighting - December, 1978

This is the second part of an article by Quentin Fogarty, detailing a UFO encounter by an Australian television crew off the coast of New Zealand. The article discusses the debunking efforts by Vince Ford of the Australian National University, who suggested the object was Jupiter magnified by atmospheric shimmer, and that the "streaks with tails" were camera movement mistaken for meteors. Robert Lanigan-O'Keefe also claimed the object was Jupiter. Fogarty refutes these claims, stating the film is not a hoax and that the witnesses saw something other than planets or meteors.

Geoff Harrow, an ornithologist, suggested the lights could have been Hutton's Shearwaters reflecting moonlight. Fogarty counters that the luminous intensity of one of the lights was comparable to over two million candelas, far exceeding what birds could produce.

Correction

A correction is noted regarding incorrect prices for the "CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT LIVINGSTON" publication, with correct prices to be found on the back page of the issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The BUFORA Bulletin consistently focuses on detailed case investigations, witness testimony, and the analysis of UFO phenomena. The magazine provides a platform for reporting on sightings, discussing potential explanations (both conventional and unconventional), and documenting the activities of the British UFO Research Association. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting scientific inquiry into UFOs, while also acknowledging the complexities and controversies surrounding the subject. The inclusion of case summaries with investigator notes and the ongoing debate in articles like Quentin Fogarty's suggest a commitment to thorough, albeit sometimes speculative, research.

This issue of the "UFO BULLETIN" (Volume: PRE 1947, Issue: No.5) from BUFORA LIMITED, dated July 26th-29th, 1982, focuses on UFO phenomena, scientific investigation, and related topics. The cover headline highlights an article on H.G. Wells' "The War In The Air."

Analysis of UFO Sightings and Expert Opinions

The issue begins by questioning the explanations offered by experts for observed aerial phenomena. It recounts Mr. Harrow's claims about birds reflecting light from a squid fleet and later from moonlight, contrasting these with the aircraft's altitude. The author expresses disappointment at not receiving replies from prominent figures like Sir Bernard Lovell and Mr. David Mabin. Sir Bernard Lovell's theory that UFOs were meteors that failed to burn up is mentioned, as is Mr. Mabin's initial suggestion of Jupiter and later admission of poor viewing conditions. The article criticizes the "clutching-at-straws mentality" of some experts and suggests that government scientists may be deliberately debunking UFO sightings, particularly in New Zealand. The author believes that despite official efforts, the phenomenon persists.

A final point is made about the nature of the lights observed, which started as pin-points and then pulsed into large balls of fire, questioning how terrestrial or astronomical sources could account for this. The author vividly recalls the experience of witnessing this "unbelievable beauty of that light show."

A footnote details a change of heart from "Vice Ford" after receiving a letter from Dr. Maccabee in August 1981. The large beach-ball shaped image seen on television was explained as an out-of-focus image of a bright object filmed near Christchurch, leading Ford to reconsider Jupiter as a possible identification.

Sir Bernard Lovell is also noted to have had second thoughts, discarding his earlier claim that the objects were meteorites after reviewing the film and Dr. Maccabee's paper.

Recommended reading for this case is "The Kaikoura UFOs" by Capt. Bill Startup and Neil Illingworth.

UPIAR Colloquium at Salzburg

Hilary Evans reports on the UPIAR Colloquium held in Salzburg from July 26th-29th, 1982. The conference brought together ufologists from various countries for an intimate discussion rather than a series of speeches. Notable attendees included Roberto Farabone, Francesco Izzo, Alex Keul, Bertrand Meheust, Thierry Pinvidic, and Jacques Scornaux.

The central theme was the interaction between psychology, sociology, and UFO investigation. Alex Keul discussed witness evaluation, and Paolo Toselli highlighted distorting factors in reporting UFO sightings. Professor Don Donderi proposed signal detection theory as an objective method for witness evaluation, suggesting a tachistoscope test. Professor Alvin Lawson presented a controversial birth-trauma hypothesis for abduction cases, which was considered a potentially rewarding new approach.

H.G. Wells and "The War In The Air"

Nigel Watson reviews H.G. Wells' novel "The War In The Air," exploring its themes of imperialism, nationalism, and the dangers of unchecked technological advancement. The novel depicts the profound impact of aerial navigation on society and the potential for aerial warfare. Watson describes the Germans' use of airships and Drachenflieger aircraft to attack American shipping and bomb New York, highlighting the destructive power of this new form of warfare. The review also touches upon the novel's depiction of the ensuing stalemate and the difficulties of controlling a surrendered population without occupying troops.

BUFORA Limited Annual General Meeting

This section details the Notice of the Seventh Annual General Meeting of BUFORA Limited, scheduled for December 4th, 1982, at the Kensington Central Library. The agenda includes receiving various reports (President's, Chairman's, Council of Management, Auditor, Treasurer), adopting accounts, appointing an auditor, and electing members to the Council of Management. Specific individuals nominated for election or re-election are listed, including John Barrett, Ian Myrzglod, Hans Streuli, Lionel Beer, and Stephen Gamble. L.W. Bayer, the outgoing Chairman, is noted as not seeking re-election.

Report of the Council of Management

The report covers the period from September 1st, 1981, to August 31st, 1982. BUFORA's principal activities involved promoting scientific research into UFOs, collecting evidence, and coordinating research globally. Membership stood at 392 at the end of the period, down from 572 the previous year. The report notes the passing of two esteemed members, Mrs. Anne Harcourt and Dr. Geoffrey Doel. Nine lectures were scheduled, though one was cancelled due to weather. BUFORA publications, including the "Bulletin" and "J-TAPs," have been produced, with the "Bulletin" replacing the "BUFORA Journal" due to economy measures. John Barrett was appointed Editor of the "Bulletin."

Richard Beet stepped down as Editor-in-Chief of J-TAP, with Bob Digby taking over guidance. The report thanks members for their contributions and apologizes for those whose submissions could not be included.

BUFORA Case History No.1, "CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT LIVINGSTON," a report by Steaurt Campbell, was published. Sales of BUFORA publications were affected by recession, but a sales effort is planned. The RADAR Report is nearing completion.

Conferences

A conference was held in Edinburgh in March 1982, attended by 60 delegates. Topics included "Towards An Ideal Investigation Network" and hypnotic regression. A symposium on the CE case at Livingston was a highlight, with supporting speakers from various fields. The conference was covered by Scottish newspapers.

Planning for the 3rd International Congress of BUFORA in August 1983 at High Wycombe is underway.

Research Department

Peter Hill became Director of Research in 1982. The department aims to address the inhibition caused by a small number of researchers. Efforts are being made to recruit members with diverse expertise. Enquiries have been received from overseas researchers, and information is being supplied.

Investigations

Jenny Randles became Director of Investigations in November 1981. The RIC system has been re-worked, and a National Investigation Committee was formed. The focus is on the standard and quality of investigation work. A postal training scheme is being developed, and "Accredited Investigators" (AIs) will be assigned CE work. Case files are being managed more effectively. The Code of Practice is now firm BUFORA policy.

Case investigation remains at a low level, with 1982 showing little improvement over 1981, though reports have begun to climb. Investigator education is considered a key issue, with successful tuition days and meetings on perception and witness interviewing.

BUFORA supplies information to the EASTEL/PRESTEL data system. A raffle was held to raise funds. A "Training in Communication" event was held in London.

Miss Betty Wood resigned as BUFORA's Secretary after 15 years. The report lists the Council of Management members for August 31st, 1982, and notes the election of Ian Myrzglod and John Barrett to the Council.

Treasurer's Report

J.L. Spencer, ACA, the Treasurer, reports that the efforts of the past year have largely reversed a difficult financial situation. He expresses confidence that the new Treasurer, Hans Streuli, will be able to expand services to members. He thanks members for their support during lean times and acknowledges the contributions of Mr. Leslie Bayer, MBE, the outgoing Chairman.

Report of the Auditor

G.H. Connor, BA, ACA, Chartered Accountant, states that the accounts were audited in accordance with approved standards. He notes that the company's control system is dependent on close director involvement. The accounts, prepared under the historical cost convention, give a true and fair view of the company's affairs.

Financial Statements

The Balance Sheet as at August 31st, 1982, shows fixed assets at net book value, current assets including stocks, debtors, and cash at bank. Current liabilities include sundry creditors and subscriptions paid in advance. The company shows a net current liabilities figure for both 1982 and 1981. The General Fund shows a deficiency, as does the Research Fund. The CE 111 K Special Research Fund shows a surplus.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of official explanations for UFO phenomena, the importance of rigorous scientific investigation, and the challenges faced by organizations like BUFORA in gathering and disseminating information. There is a clear stance against what is perceived as official debunking and a strong emphasis on the value of witness testimony and detailed case analysis. The issue also highlights the organizational and financial aspects of running a UFO research group, including membership, publications, conferences, and research initiatives. The editorial stance appears to be one of persistent inquiry and a commitment to uncovering the truth behind UFO sightings, even when faced with skepticism and limited resources.

This document comprises financial statements and reports from BUFORA LIMITED, a company limited by guarantee, for the year ended August 31st, 1982, and minutes from their Sixth Annual General Meeting held on December 5th, 1981. The content focuses on the organization's financial health, operational improvements, publications, and future plans.

Income and Expenditure Account (Year Ended 31st August 1982)

The Income and Expenditure Account for the year ending August 31st, 1982, shows a significant improvement compared to the previous year. Total income in 1982 was £4381, a decrease from £5051 in 1981. However, expenditure was drastically reduced from £5358 in 1981 to £3346 in 1982. This resulted in an 'Excess of Income Over Expenditure' of £1045 in 1982, a substantial turnaround from a deficit of (£337) in 1981. Key income sources included subscriptions (Annual and Life), publications sold, enrolment fees, donations, training fees, bank interest, and sundry income. Major expenditure areas were membership publications printing and distribution, research and investigation, Edinburgh conference costs, administration expenses, sundry expenditure, London lecture costs, and honorarium to the Auditor.

Notes to the accounts clarify that life subscriptions are credited at a rate equivalent to the current annual subscription, and annual subscriptions are credited at a percentage equivalent to the balance of the year. Corporation tax of 40% was applied to bank interest, and adjustments were made to previous years.

Chairman's Report

The Chairman's Report highlights the drastic curtailment of costs in the year ending August 31st, 1982, leading to a surplus. This was achieved without reducing the number of publications issued or compromising delivery times. The report acknowledges the hard work of John Spencer, the Treasurer, who is resigning but will remain on Council. Due to inflation, the Association's subscription rates will increase from January 1983 for current members (£2.50 pa) and from November 1st, 1982, for new members (£12.50 pa). To compensate, members will receive the 'Probe Report' published by the Bristol Group PROBE. The report announces the appointment of Jenny Randles as the new Director of Investigations, aiming to restore a credible, nationwide network of experienced investigators with clear policies and objective case handling. The BUFORA Bulletin is now being produced by a professional journalist, John Barrett, with thanks extended to Arnold West for his interim editorial work. The publication 'CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT LIVINGSTON' by Steuart Campbell is highlighted as the most important publication of the year, detailing a significant case and including extensive supporting materials. Plans for the 1983 Congress are well advanced, scheduled for August 27th-29th, with an emphasis on quality presentations and a seminar on a UK UFO film. Peter Hill, Research Director, is working on sorting and indexing BUFORA's files to make them available to investigators. The Chairman expresses gratitude to his Council colleagues and is not seeking re-election.

Minutes of the Sixth Annual General Meeting (December 5th, 1981)

The minutes detail the proceedings of the AGM, including the reading of the notice, apologies for absence, and approval of the previous meeting's minutes. A sad announcement was made regarding the death of Dr. Geoffrey Doel, Past President of BUFORA. The Chairman, Mr L.W. Bayer, read a message from the President and elaborated on his report, stressing the need to improve research standards and rely on member loyalty. Plans to instigate training courses for investigators and improve selection methods were discussed, with Miss Jenny Randles proposed as Director of Investigations. The potential reissue of the BUFORA Journal/Bulletin was mentioned, pending financial improvement. The merits of a Code of Practice for investigators were under discussion, with legal vetting underway. The Treasurer's Report indicated a loss of £500, with hopes for improvement. A suggestion was made that if each member brought in one new member, subscription increases could be avoided. The Research Director's Report noted Mr Pace's resignation and the appointment of Mr Peter Hill. Mr R. Digby provided an explanation of research work, including the production of JTAP and efforts to align with international standards. The adoption of the Council of Management's Report, Auditor's Report, and Accounts for the year ended August 31st, 1981, was carried unanimously. Mr G.H. Connor was reappointed as Auditor. Several officers did not seek re-election, and replacements were nominated, including Mr Hill as Director of Research, Mr Digby for Council, Miss Randles as Director of Investigations, and Mr John Shaw for another vacancy. Miss B. Wood was re-elected as Honorary Secretary. The meeting also discussed earlier commencement times for lectures and the possibility of holding raffles during lectures. A suggestion was made to amend the Articles of Association to reduce the quorum requirement for meetings.

Donations

A list of individuals who made generous donations to BUFORA Ltd during the year ended August 31st, 1981, is provided.

BUFORA Publications and Events

Advertisements detail available BUFORA publications, including 'CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT LIVINGSTON', 'UFO INVESTIGATIONS', 'CONGRESS79', and 'VEHICLE INTERFERENCE PROJECT', along with their prices for members and the general public. Information is also provided on BUFORA Periodicals such as 'BUFORA Journal' and 'Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena (J-TAP)'. Details for ordering publications are given. An announcement for an ASSAP conference on 'Spiricom/EVP' (electric voice production) is included, along with information for the 'WORLD UFO GUIDE'. The Council announced the forthcoming publication of a report on a survey of BUFORA members conducted by Shirley McIver. The Council also thanked Dr. Geoffrey Doel's widow for her donation of his collection of UFO books and magazines to the Association's library.

Human Sciences and UFO Phenomena

This section, continuing from page 12, discusses a paper by Claude Mauge (France) asking about the psychological group of UFO witnesses. Malcolm Scott's paper suggested studying witness motivation and personal circumstances. The author's paper offered an explanation for abduction reports in terms of mimetic projection, where the subconscious mind projects a simulated experience. The colloquium was described as a lively sharing of views and a stimulating prospect for ufology.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the financial management and operational efficiency of BUFORA LIMITED, emphasizing cost reduction and improved services for members. There is a strong focus on enhancing the organization's research capabilities, investigator network, and publications. The editorial stance appears to be one of proactive management, aiming to professionalize the organization and provide valuable resources and information to its members within the field of UFO research. The document also touches upon the broader aspects of UFO phenomena, including witness psychology and the potential for subconscious projection in reported experiences.