BUFORA Bulletin - No 11 - Nov 1983

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: Ø11
Volume: 1982-83
Date: November 1983
Publisher: BUFORA (British UFO Research Association)
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated November 1983, covers a range of topics related to UFO research and the activities of the British UFO Research Association. The cover features a striking image of a child pointing towards a formation of UFOs in the sky, with the magazine's title prominently displayed.

Key Articles and Reports

News

The 1983-84 BUFORA session commenced on October 8, 1983, with a Council meeting at the London Business School. Honorary Treasurer Hans Streuli presented the accounts, noting that BUFORA, like many ufological organizations, is experiencing financial difficulties due to a long recession and a loss of members. He urged members to recruit new ones, and twenty new members were elected. John Shaw and John Spencer reported on the successful 1983 International Congress, which was described by Dr. J. Allen Hynek as the "best Congress I have attended anywhere in the world." Stephen Gamble, the new Director of Research, outlined proposals for his department, including the creation of special working parties to investigate specific aspects of ufology, reorganisation of case history files, improved library facilities, and the use of more sophisticated equipment for evaluating photographs and analysing cases. He also plans to investigate hypnotic regression cases. Jenny Randles reported on her Investigations Department's activities and noted a decrease in reported cases, though the quality of reports was improving.

PROBE REPORT TO CLOSE

A significant announcement was made regarding the cessation of 'PROBE REPORT,' scheduled to become 'BUFORA PROBE' in January 1984. The editor, Ian Mrzyglod, resigned. Council expressed regret but stated that due to financial limitations, they could not resurrect or replace the journal. To compensate, BUFORA agreed to substantial increases in the page count for both 'BUFORA BULLETIN' and 'J-TAP,' ensuring members receive the same amount of editorial material. The BULLETIN will become an A4 publication from June 1984, and J-TAP will be increased to 32 pages per issue. Members wishing to receive a refund on their annual subscription due to the loss of 'PROBE REPORT' were advised to contact Hans Streuli.

Evening Lecture

Dr. Sue Blackmore delivered a lecture on "UFOS AND HALLUCINATIONS" at the new London Business School venue. She used slides to demonstrate how easily perception can be faulty, leading to different interpretations of the same object and the occurrence of pseudo-hallucinations and real hallucinations. She conducted tests on judging heights, size, and distance, illustrating how initial perceptual errors can lead to a series of subsequent errors. An example given was Magnetic Hill in Canada, where a road appeared to run downhill due to perspective and placement of features, though it actually went uphill. The lecture aimed to encourage serious thought about illusion and misperception as potential explanations for some UFO sightings. Following Dr. Blackmore's talk, Lionel Beer gave a brief presentation on the Rendlesham Forest case.

OTHER EVENTS

The issue also mentions BUFORA's Capital Radio broadcast and its 21st anniversary conference held at Kensington Central Library on September 24, 1983. The anniversary meeting included speeches from Founder-President Graham Knewstub and others. Norman Oliver of BUFOS gave a talk on the history of UFO sightings, covering cases from ancient times to the post-1947 era, including well-known incidents like Roswell, Mantell, Adamski, and the Rendlesham Forest case. He questioned why 'creatures' had not made themselves known in a more direct manner and suggested it might be time for humans to initiate contact.

Lionel Beer presented a slide show on the history and background of ufology, starting with Sanskrit illustrations and progressing through various historical accounts and early UFO photographs. A tape montage of earlier BUFORA lectures was also featured. Bob Digby expressed hope for BUFORA to become more research-oriented nationally and internationally, emphasizing an impartial, scientific stance.

BUFORA celebrated its 21st anniversary with a special red button badge and a 4-page leaflet detailing the association's history. They also produced a new membership folder. BUFORA was also featured on Capital Radio, with Chairman Bob Digby compering a program that included interviews with delegates from the Third International UFO Congress and discussions on the phenomenon. Dr. Stanton Friedman and Dr. Allen Hynek were among those featured. Mrs. Cynthia Hind from Zimbabwe noted a high level of interest in her country, particularly among black people who believed they saw their ancestors. Paul Norman from Australia mentioned authorities becoming more forthcoming in releasing information. Bertil Kuhlemann from Sweden and Jenny Randles also contributed. The Ministry of Defence's attitude towards public consumption of UFO information was criticized, with BUFORA having been let down by the Ministry for a scheduled live interview. The issue also notes Lionel Beer and Hilary Evans appearing on LBC, discussing UFO matters.

3rd International UFO Congress (August 1983)

This section provides a condensed report of the main highlights from the 3rd International UFO Congress held at High Wycombe. Over 90 participants attended from Europe, Zimbabwe, the USA, and Australia. Dr. J. Allen Hynek, Director of CUFOS, opened the congress and congratulated BUFORA on its 21st anniversary. He noted that while ufology was in a doldrum with fewer sightings, the reports were more sophisticated and distinguishable between IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and UFOs. Dr. Hynek presented "A MODERN ESTIMATE OF THE SITUATION: AN OVERVIEW," discussing his early role in debunking 'flying saucers' for the USAF and the military's serious regard for UFOs, with mandatory reporting instructions for pilots. He expressed concerns that the term 'flying saucer' invited derision and attracted unreliable sources, making it difficult for scientists to consider the bizarre stories that violated preconceived ideas of possibility.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the state of UFO research, the challenges faced by organizations like BUFORA (financial difficulties, declining membership), and the importance of scientific investigation and objective reporting. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting rigorous research, maintaining an impartial stance, and adapting to changing circumstances, such as the loss of a publication, by enhancing existing ones. There is a clear emphasis on historical context, current events in ufology, and the psychological aspects of perception and misperception related to UFO sightings. The association actively engages with the public through radio broadcasts and conferences, aiming to disseminate information and foster a better understanding of the UFO phenomenon.

This issue of the BUFORA BULLETIN, dated October 1983, Volume 10 No. 4, is priced at £1.50 and focuses on a report from a Congress. The cover headline is 'Congress Report,' and the main theme revolves around discussions and presentations concerning UFO phenomena.

Congress Report

The congress featured numerous speakers and discussions, highlighting the complexities and controversies surrounding UFO research. Dr. Hynek emphasized that the paranormal is simply 'that part of the normal that was not yet understood.'

Scientific Skepticism and ETH

Stanton Friedman argued against the notion that no scientists accept the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH), though Dr. Hynek stated he had never met one who did. Manfred Cassirer questioned the wisdom of the USAF or CIA investigating UFO reports, with Dr. Hynek agreeing that a scientific committee should have been appointed. Dr. Hynek doubted that a UFO solution would be found in the current era. Charles Lockwood proposed the existence of an undetected low-energy star in the solar system as a potential UFO base, a possibility Dr. Hynek found plausible.

Dr. Hynek stressed the need for a multi-disciplinary approach to UFOs, involving astronomers, physicists, theologians, and psychologists. This sentiment was echoed by Bertil Kuhlemann, who advocated for a diversity of explanations.

UFO Investigations and Technology

Dr. Hartley Rutledge presented his work on 'PROJECT IDENTIFICATION,' detailing scientific investigations into UFOs in Piedmont, Missouri, which recorded 157 observations of 178 UFOs. These observations defied rational explanation and indicated intelligence. The discussion revealed that delegates were less convinced by the nature and plurality of sightings, with Dr. Rutledge attributing his findings to better knowledge of observation techniques and specialized instrumentation.

Per Andersen discussed the attitude of Danish scientists towards UFOs, noting deep skepticism. A survey indicated that while many scientists believed UFOs should be investigated, a smaller proportion felt responsible for it, with some viewing it as a luxury or a subject for public delusion.

Radar Cases

Peter Warrington presented 'AN EVALUATION OF THE EVIDENCE FOR UFO EVENTS FROM RADAR OBSERVATIONS,' questioning why scientists don't take UFO researchers more seriously and vice versa. He explained that radar technology is complex but understood by experts, and that anomalies like 'angels' can be caused by atmospheric changes or even insects. He examined three UFO radar sightings, including a Trident aircraft incident where the objects were later identified as the tops of the Pyrenees mountains, and the Lakenheath case, where an object detected at vast speeds (7,000mph) raised questions about its nature.

Arnold West, a radar engineer, inquired about distinguishing real targets from anomalies. Mr. Warrington stated there was no certain way, as 'angels' appear as solid objects on screen. He noted that the Lakenheath case reports were garbled due to time and the small amount of technical thought given to radar-detected UFOs. The possibility of using radar solely for detecting UFOs was discussed, with a suggestion for a dedicated system.

UFO 'Window Areas' and Phenomena

Jenny Randles spoke on 'OPENING UP THE WINDOWS,' examining UFO 'window areas' in the UK. She discussed how events, once publicized, can attract more reports, citing Warminster, Earlham, and Milton Keynes as examples. The 'contagion' aspect, where media sensationalism can lead to more reports, was also highlighted. The Deeside and Rossendale Valley areas were mentioned for their history of sightings and related phenomena, including 'mystery helicopters.'

Specific Cases and Theories

The issue details several specific cases: the February 1979 encounter with a landed UFO at Stacksteads, a car stop incident at Nelson in March 1977, the strange death of Zigmund Adamski in Todmorden in June 1980, and the CElll case of PC Alan Godfrey. The 'amber/gambler' phenomenon, a coronet of lights, and physical traces were discussed. Jenny Randles coined the term 'UAP' (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) and explored the idea that UFO/CE experiences occur within individual consciousness, suggesting telepathy as a possible communication method.

Film Analysis

A 16mm film of an orange object seen near Thame, Oxfordshire, in January 1973 was presented. The film, captured by Peter Day, showed a bright orange ball of light. Kodak Laboratories deemed the film 'optically correct' and showing a real, distant object. However, discussions raised doubts about the estimated speed and size. Scientists and atmospheric physicists initially dismissed it as ball lightning, while the Ministry of Defence suggested a helicopter with a searchlight, a possibility later discounted.

Roswell and Extraterrestrial Visits

Stanton Friedman presented his theme 'FLYING SAUCERS ARE REAL,' asserting that Earth is being visited by extraterrestrials. He claimed the US government's interest in UFOs dates back to the 1950s, with a higher security rating than the H-bomb, and that an FBI/CIA cover-up, a 'cosmic Watergate,' certainly existed. He substantiated this with the Robertson Panel Committee report. Friedman discussed the Roswell, New Mexico incident of July 1947, citing research by William Moore that indicated something curious occurred, with independent witnesses testifying to the retrieval of debris from a crashed saucer and its crew.

He explained that the Cold War necessitated secrecy and conspiracy, with disinformation playing a vital role. Project Blue Book was described as a front with no scientific resources, while the real investigation was conducted by the US Aerospace Defence Command. Friedman also touched upon the Zeta 2 Reticuli star map from Betty Hill's abduction claim and Paul Trent's photograph of an object in McMinnville, Oregon.

The Australian Flap and Valentich Disappearance

Paul Norman reported on the 1978 Bass Strait flap in Australia, which included the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich. The area had a history of disappearances and strange lights. The Australian Department of Transport refused to release the last portion of Valentich's radio message, which contained a strange metallic noise. Similarities were drawn to Larry Coyne's helicopter encounter in 1973.

Measurements and Data Banks

Bertil Kuhlemann presented his paper 'MEASURABLES AND NON-MEASURABLES IN UFO RESEARCH,' advocating for a computer-based data bank to identify and eliminate many IFO reports. He stressed the importance of including object, position, and speed in measurements, and monitoring the observer's physical condition and temperament. He believed computerization would benefit ufology by coordinating diverse material and providing researchers with online data.

The Cosmic Life-Line

Bob Digby chaired a session featuring Ali Abu Taha's hypothesis that extraterrestrial life exists on the sun. This complex theory, drawing on ancient mythology and 19th-century astronomy, proposed that life could exist in the sun's convection zone, which is abundant in life-giving elements and under immense pressure. The concept of solar travellers needing specialized equipment and the characteristics of UFOs ('glowing,' 'dazzled,' 'firelike') were linked to solar phenomena.

News from Norway and Earthlights

Jan Fyllander discussed the 'flap' of sightings in Norway between November 1981 and spring 1983, characterized by brilliant lights and formations. Paul Devereaux presented 'EARTHLIGHTS,' suggesting that many UFO reports result from piezo-electric earth disturbances that produce 'earthlights,' which can change shape and form.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently highlights the tension between scientific skepticism and the persistent evidence and testimonies related to UFO phenomena. There's a clear call for more rigorous, multidisciplinary research and a critique of how the scientific community and government agencies have handled UFO information. The editorial stance appears to support open investigation and a willingness to consider unconventional explanations, while acknowledging the challenges of distinguishing genuine phenomena from misidentifications and atmospheric effects. The importance of data collection and analysis, particularly through computerization, is emphasized.

This issue of the BUFORA LIMITED UFO Bulletin, identified as No.7 and dated November 12th, 1983, delves into various aspects of UFO research and related phenomena. The cover headline highlights a talk on 'US Intelligence Agencies and UFOs' by Timothy Good, scheduled for November 12th, 1983, at the London Business School.

Earthlights Theory and UFOs

The issue presents a theory, discussed by Mr. Devereaux, that 'earthlights'—phenomena associated with geological faults and minerals like quartz—could explain many UFO sightings. He cited examples from Wales, specifically Barmouth and St. Brides Bay, where sightings were linked to major fault lines. Devereaux suggested that these lights might be modified by the consciousness of witnesses, particularly those with physics backgrounds. He also referenced the 1974 Barmouth area incident involving a ball of light and earth tremors, and Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting as potentially related to earthlights.

Discussion on Earthlights

The earthlights theory generated controversy, with some attendees at a meeting acknowledging that while it might explain some UFO sightings, it could not explain all of them. One questioner emphasized that her own Close Encounter (CE) experience was unrelated to earthlights or piezo-electrical effects.

PICUR Reorganized as ICUR

Bertil Kuhlemann announced the reformation of PICUR into ICUR (International Committee for UFO Research). The new committee includes Bertil Kuhlemann as Chairman, Dr. J. Allen Hynek as President, Robert Digby as Treasurer, and Bjorne Hakansson as Secretary.

'Send in the Clones' - Critiquing UFO Literature

Hilary Evans' paper, 'THE LIARS AND THE LUNATICS AND WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THEM,' is discussed. Evans critiques what he terms 'pseufos' or 'swindles and humbug' within ufology, focusing on inaccuracies and fabrications in UFO reports. He examined three books from the 1977 Welsh 'flap' and criticized the handling of the Cergy Pontoise abduction and the Broadhaven UFO landing investigation. Evans suggested a separate UFO category for accounts stemming from subjective thought processes, like those of Claude Vorilhon, Elizabeth Klarer, and Betty King, arguing that such stories, while sociologically interesting, are outside mainstream ufological research. He believes weeding out these 'pseufos' benefits ufology by preventing harm to the naive and gullible.

Discussion on 'Pseufos'

Lionel Beer noted that 'Official UFO' magazine, initially a serious journal, had its original editors sacked. Dr. Rutledge humorously assured delegates that Chester, Illinois, was not destroyed by UFOs, contrary to some reports. Cynthia Hind agreed that the Broadhaven case was not mishandled and mentioned her book 'UFOs African Encounters.' Mrs. Hind also defended her inclusion of Elizabeth Klarer's story in her book, acknowledging its unbelievable nature but deeming it relevant to South African contactee experiences.

Congress Close and Future Events

Bob Digby summarized the congress as a useful international dialogue. Dr. J.H. Petersen expressed hope that the congress would improve national and international communication on UFO research. The issue also lists upcoming events:

• November 12th, 1983: Talk by Timothy Good on 'US Intelligence Agencies and UFOs' at the London Business School.
• December 10th, 1983: BUFORA AGM followed by a talk from Jenny Randles on the Rendlesham Forest mystery, with contributions from Dot Street and Brenda Butler.

Pre-1947 UFO Bulletin Article: The Loosley Manuscript

A section titled 'PRE 1947 UFO BULLETIN No.7' by Nigel Watson discusses a manuscript by William Robert Loosley (1838-1893). Loosley, a carpenter and builder, reported an encounter in 1871 with strange automatons and holographic images after witnessing a 'star' descend. David Langford edited and commented on this manuscript. Colin Bord's examination in 'FORTEAN TIMES' raised doubts about its authenticity, suggesting it might be a 'tedious example of someone's warped sense of humour.' Watson also cautions that newspaper accounts can be mangled or invented, citing the 'Alexander Hamilton's Airship Hoax' in Kansas as an example.

BUFORA Annual General Meeting and Reports

The issue contains the Notice of the Eighth Annual General Meeting of BUFORA LIMITED, to be held on December 10th, 1983, at the London Business School. The agenda includes receiving reports from the President, Chairman, Director of Research, Director of Investigations, and Treasurer, as well as adopting accounts and electing Council members.

The 'REPORT OF THE COUNCIL OF MANAGEMENT FOR TWELVE MONTHS ENDING 31st AUGUST, 1983' details BUFORA's activities. Key points include:

• Membership: Decreased to 337 from 392 in the previous year.
• Activities: Encouraging, promoting, and conducting unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena, collecting and disseminating evidence, and coordinating UFO research.
• Lectures: Eight lectures were held at Kensington Central Library between September 1982 and May 1983.
• Publications: Five issues of the Bulletin and two of J-TAP were published. BUFORA PROBE, scheduled for January 1984, will not appear, with Bulletin and J-TAP size increased to compensate.
• Conferences: BUFORA sponsored its Third International Congress from August 27th-29th, 1983, at Lane End, near High Wycombe.
• Research: Peter Hill stepped down as Director of Research, succeeded by Stephen Gamble. The research department is sub-divided into groups for traces, photographic, and electromagnetic effects. Work continued on cases from 1981-82, including the Livingston case and the Peter Day photographic case. Progress was made on an international UFO data-base, similar to the Swedish URD system.
• Investigations: 61 new cases were reported, with 10 judged insufficient for identification, 41 explained, and 10 deemed 'UNKNOWNS.' Notable cases include a 1939 UFO event in Gloucestershire, a landing with physical traces in Sheffield, an event in Buckinghamshire witnessed by police, and a hoaxed close encounter in Devon.
• Promotional Activities: BUFORA supplied information to EASTEL/PRESTEL, had a stand at the ASSAP Garden Party, and participated in radio and television programs.
• Council of Management: Changes included Stephen Gamble becoming Director of Research. Peter Hill resigned due to ill health. Arnold West stepped down as Director of Publications, with John Barrett taking over. Miss Diane Rollinson was elected as a Director and Secretary. The report lists the Council members and notes that no remuneration was received.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bulletin reflects a commitment to rigorous, unbiased UFO research, distinguishing between genuine unexplained cases and 'pseufos' or hoaxes. There is a strong emphasis on investigation, data collection, and the dissemination of evidence. The organization, BUFORA, appears to be a dedicated group of researchers and enthusiasts aiming to advance the field through structured activities, publications, and conferences. The editorial stance is one of critical inquiry, seeking to separate credible reports from sensationalism and to establish professional standards in UFO research.

This issue of BUFORA LIMITED, dated August 31st, 1983, includes several key reports and minutes detailing the organization's activities, financial status, and future direction.

Treasurer's Report

The Treasurer's Report, presented by Hans Streuli, highlights significant changes over the past 12 months, including the relocation of lectures from Kensington to the more central London Business School. This new venue offers superior facilities and is expected to make the lectures self-supporting, potentially even generating a small profit for the Research and Investigation departments. The report acknowledges a year of changes and improvements in publications, resulting in two outstanding and inexpensive journals. Subscription increases are not anticipated in the near future, and summaries of lectures will be provided in publications for members outside London.

The report also addresses the financial challenges posed by congresses, particularly the Third International Congress in August 1983. Severe cuts in spending were necessary. The Treasurer expresses gratitude to the Accredited Investigators for their dedicated efforts and contributions throughout 1982-83, estimating over 5000 hours of research and a value of over £2000. Thanks are also extended to the Council colleagues for their efforts.

Balance Sheet as at 31st August, 1983

The Balance Sheet for BUFORA LIMITED as of August 31st, 1983, shows Fixed Assets of £-, Current Assets totaling £7,245 (Bank £4,652, Sundry Debtors £2,593, Stock £-). Current Liabilities amounted to £7,748 (Sundry Creditors £7,598, Subscriptions in Advance £150), resulting in Net Current Liabilities of £503. The General Fund shows an Excess of Expenses of £358, with a Reserve Fund of £75. After deducting the balance brought forward, the net result is a deficit of £503.

The accounts were approved by R.S. Digby (Chairman) and Hans Streuli (Treasurer).

Income and Expenditure Account for the Year Ended 31st August, 1983

The Income and Expenditure Account for the year ended August 31st, 1983, details income from Subscriptions (£3,446), Donations (£363), Publications (£461), and Advertisements (£24), totaling £4,294. Expenditure included Publications (£2,675), Stationery and Administration (£807), Investigation (£145), Lecture Costs (£792), Registration and Insurance (£58), and Audit (£50), totaling £3,901. This resulted in an Excess of Income before Congress Operation of £393. However, the Congress Operation, specifically the Edinburgh Congress and the 3rd International Congress '83, incurred a loss of £751, leading to an overall Excess of (Expenditure) Income to General Fund of £358.

Notes clarify that the company is limited by guarantee. The potential loss from the 3rd International Congress is highlighted, with £327 of costs being challenged, potentially improving the overall financial outcome. The accounts are published as unaudited due to an auditor's ineligibility, with a new auditor anticipated.

Chairman's Report

The Chairman's Report, covering nine months up to August 31st, 1983, expresses gratitude to Council colleagues and active members. The highlight of the year was the Third International Congress at Lane End, praised for its scientific content. Challenges remain regarding finances, membership decline, and publication stability, but the dedication of the management team is noted as a strength. Attention has been focused on the Research and Publications Departments.

The Chairman shares his view on future direction, emphasizing the need for regularity in publications with a focus on content over technical quality. The membership fee is considered realistic for supporting services. The International Congress was valuable for dialogue, but a demand exists for a National event to foster discussion among investigators. There is also a call for BUFORA to take a stronger role in running training courses.

The future direction is to become a responsible clearing house for incredible event reports, aiming to filter information and interface with experts. BUFORA maintains an unbiased viewpoint on UFOs, supporting various hypotheses.

An appeal is made for more members and active participants, urging each member to recruit at least one person in the coming year.

Donations

The Council thanks members for their donations to the Association between September 1st, 1982, and August 31st, 1983. A list of donors is provided.

Minutes of the Seventh Annual General Meeting

The minutes of the Seventh Annual General Meeting, held on December 4th, 1982, at Kensington Central Library, record approximately 30 members present. The Chairman reported on the previous meeting's minutes and noted the lack of communication from the President. The Treasurer, John Spencer, had successfully reduced costs and cleared BUFORA's backlog of debt.

Due to inflation, the subscription was increased by £2.50 to £12.50 per annum from January 1983. A new publication, 'Probe Report,' was to be circulated four times a year. Miss Jenny Randles was congratulated for her work as Director of Investigations, and Mr John Barrett was commended for producing the BUFORA Bulletin. The recently published 'Livingston case history' was mentioned, with thanks to Miss Betty Wood for her donation towards its production.

Mr Peter Hill, Director of Research, had begun organizing BUFORA's files, with office accommodation and storage space provided by Mr Robin Lindsey. The accounts were adopted unanimously. The auditor, G.H. Connor, resigned due to merging his practice with Mr John L. Spencer's. Mr E.W. Perfitt was nominated and accepted as the new auditor.

Mr Peter Hill's report summary indicated a focus on stock-taking and planning for future developments in research, including transferring cases to a punch card system for international standardization of reports.

Miss Jenny Randles, Director of Investigations, outlined her aim to raise report standards through a policy of Accredited Investigators. A National Investigations Committee was formed, and a standard report form is planned.

Several individuals were elected or re-elected to the Council, including John Barrett, Ian Mryzglod, Hans Streuli, Lionel Beer, and Stephen Gamble. Mr Beer was appointed Director of Public Relations. Miss Betty Wood was awarded honorary life membership for her 15 years of service.

The meeting concluded with thanks to the retiring Chairman, Mr Leslie Bayer.

Historical UFO Reports and Publications

This section discusses the challenges of researching historical UFO reports, particularly those from 1909-1913, noting the variability in spellings and dates, which makes them indicative rather than definitive. It contrasts this with post-1947 sightings that allow for on-the-spot investigation and interviews.

It also mentions the 'Nottingham UFO Investigation Society' and its 'UFO RESEARCH REVIEW Annual Abstract Issue,' highlighting a book from 1980 titled 'AN ACCOUNT OF A MEETING WITH DENIZENS OF ANOTHER WORLD, 1871' as potentially intriguing.

Letters to the Editor

Mrs K. Smith writes to express her reservations about BUFORA concentrating its investigational facilities on a few cases, suggesting that this approach neglects other approaches and that too much time is spent on non-events. She advocates for publishing all reports to allow members to form their own opinions.

Jenny Randles replies on behalf of the investigations committee, clarifying that Accredited Investigators have the authority to decide which cases to pursue. She argues that focusing on cases with potential scientific value is necessary and that ignoring low-grade cases entirely is not the directive. She emphasizes that investigating structured discs, electromagnetic effects, or landing traces, rather than simple lights, is more scientifically profitable.

Randles further explains that while lights in the sky may sometimes be UFOs, their scientific value is minimal. Close encounter reports, however, are more significant. She defends the NIC's direction, stating that investigators are human and need to be able to choose cases that maintain their interest, unless scientific factors suggest otherwise. She also notes that BUFORA does not have a corporate viewpoint on UFOs and supports various hypotheses.

Randles also addresses the publication criteria, mentioning that while BUFORA Bulletin publishes summaries, the policy of the National Investigations Committee (NIC) aligns with that of Northern UFO News, which includes basic information on all reported sightings, explained or unexplained. She notes a shift towards dedicating more space to higher-grade cases, which has received favorable comments. A plan to publish an annual checklist of all BUFORA cases prior to 1983 is mentioned.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the financial health and operational challenges of BUFORA, the importance of its publications and investigation efforts, and the management of its membership. There is a clear emphasis on the need for scientific rigor in investigations, balanced with the practicalities of maintaining member engagement. The editorial stance, as expressed in the Chairman's report and the response to the letter to the editor, is one of striving for a balanced, unbiased, and credible approach to UFO research, acknowledging the complexities and the need for dedicated effort from its members.

This issue of the BUFORA BULLETIN, dated 1984, contains a collection of letters to the editor, reports on UFO cases, and announcements for upcoming lectures and publications. The content primarily focuses on UFO phenomena, investigations, and theories within the UK.

Letters to the Editor

The issue opens with a letter from 'Mrs Smith' who suggests that some UFO cases might be 'non-events,' a perspective that is debated by a correspondent who defends the importance of investigating such cases, citing the Rendlesham Forest incident as a prime example. The correspondent argues that BUFORA's lack of response to the Rendlesham case might be a subject for debate rather than 'wasted effort.'

A letter from Mr. C. Strevens, who attended BUFORA's Congress in August 1983, shares his observations. He notes Dr. Hynek's suggestion to consider esoteric explanations for UFO sightings and discusses the challenges of intersellar travel, including the concept of the Photon rocket. Strevens contrasts the energy requirements of the Photon rocket with power levels achieved by Earth technology, suggesting that 'holes in space' might be a more plausible explanation for overcoming vast distances, as proposed by Stanton Friedman.

Another correspondent, Bill Ritch, provides further details on 'The Welsh Triangles' case, referencing an article in the June 1983 BULLETIN. He recounts two separate sightings: one involving a Cardiff woman who saw a conventional saucer-shaped object that changed shape and colour, and another by a Dr. Hamilton who witnessed a large triangular craft with pulsating lights.

UFO Investigations and Theories

The bulletin touches upon various aspects of UFO investigation and theory. The Rendlesham Forest case is highlighted as a significant event requiring thorough investigation, with the correspondent expressing belief that facts emerging over the next year would validate its importance. The role of BUFORA (British UFO Research Association) in investigating such cases is implicitly questioned.

There is a discussion on the possibility of alien craft refueling by mining hydrogen from planets. The correspondent expresses agreement with the idea of a cover-up and mentions an unpublished case where a witness was silenced. The Hessdalen sightings are mentioned, with the possibility of mundane explanations like aircraft lights being considered, though the unique movement characteristics are noted. Paul Deveraux's explanation for UFOs is deemed too all-embracing, and the idea that extraterrestrials might be surveying fault lines is dismissed as bad science.

The issue also briefly mentions Jenny Randles' talk, which concluded that the mind could generate physical events, and Hilary Evans' observation that the UFO field contains many liars and lunatics.

BUFORA Activities and Publications

The bulletin lists a series of BUFORA lectures and updates, dating from 1979 to 1981, covering a wide range of UFO-related topics and speakers. These lectures are available for purchase.

A separate section details the BUFORA - Birmingham Conference held on November 6th-7th, 1976, listing various topics and speakers, including 'Alphabet of UFO Reports,' 'Photography at UFO Sites,' and 'The Humanoids: An Analysis of UFO Occupant Cases.'

Advertisements for BUFORA publications are included, such as 'Close Encounter at Livingston,' 'UFO Investigations' (a handbook), 'Congress '79,' and 'Vehicle Interference Project.' Information is also provided on the BUFORA JOURNAL and BUFORA Bulletin.

Upcoming BUFORA lectures for 1984 are announced, featuring 'British Fireball Survey: The First Four Years' by John Mason and 'The Loch Ness Monster: A Case to Answer' by Adrian Shing. These lectures were scheduled to take place at the London Business School.

Editorial Stance and Disclaimer

A disclaimer states that the British UFO Research Association does not hold or express corporate views on UFO phenomena, and contributions reflect only the views of the editor or the authors. All material is copyright to the contributor and BUFORA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of significant UFO cases, the theoretical explanations for UFO phenomena, and the activities of BUFORA, including its lectures and publications. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFOs, encouraging detailed investigation and discussion of various theories, while also acknowledging the challenges and potential for misinterpretation within the field. The disclaimer emphasizes that individual contributors' views are their own, not necessarily those of the organization.