BUFORA Bulletin - No 17 - May 1985

Magazine Overview

This issue of the BUFORA BULLETIN, dated May 1985 and numbered 17, is published by BUFORA Ltd, the British UFO Research Association. The cover features a striking image with the title prominently displayed, hinting at themes of mystery and observation. The publication is dedicated to the scientific research of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and aims to collect and disseminate evidence.

Council and Staff

The issue lists the BUFORA Council for 1985-86, including a President (to be filled), Vice-Presidents The Rt.Hon. Earl of Clancarty and G.F.N. Knewstub, Council Chairman Arnold West, and Vice-Chairman Stephen Gamble. Key roles such as Secretary to Council (Miss Diane Rollison), Treasurer (Christopher Pearson), Director of Publications and Editor (John E. Barrett), Historian (Lionel E. Beer), Librarian (Robin Lindsey), Director of Research (Stephen Gamble), Director of Investigations (Miss Jenny Randles), and Training Officer (Ken Phillips) are detailed with their contact information. Membership is open to all who support the association's aims.

Contents

The table of contents highlights several key articles:

• COUNTDOWN TO REALITY by Paul Norman (Page 2): This article, part two of a paper given at a MUFON conference, focuses on the historical background to Australian ufological research and the 1978 'flap' and the Valentich disappearance.
• CASES UNDER INVESTIGATION by Jenny Randles (Page 11)
• UFO ABDUCTIONS - CE3, CE4 and CE5s by Jenny Randles (Page 18)
• THE FRONTIERS OF UFOLOGY by Hilary Evans (Page 23)
• CE3s ORDINARY SIGHTINGS by Brendan Taylor (Page 29)
• REPORT ON NIC MEETING - March, 1985 (Page 333)
• UFO ANAMNESIS - A Status Report by Ken Phillips (Page 35)
• Pre-1947 UFO BULLETIN by Nigel Watson (Page 37)
• LETTERS TO THE EDITOR (Page 39)

Countdown to Reality: The Frederick Valentich Disappearance

Paul Norman, an American-born researcher who migrated to Australia and is involved with VUFORS and MUFON, details the disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich on October 21st, 1978. Valentich vanished over Bass Strait while flying from Melbourne to King Island. His last communication occurred at 7:12 pm during a significant UFO flap. Over 50 reported observations in the area were documented by the Victorian UFO Research Society. The incident gained international attention when a pilot tipped off the press. The article includes a transcription of Valentich's final radio communications with Melbourne Flight Service. Valentich reported a large aircraft below five thousand feet, which he described as having four bright lights resembling landing lights. He noted the aircraft passed over him at least a thousand feet above and was traveling at speeds he could not identify. He described it as a 'long shape' and later as 'stationary' and 'orbiting' him. The object then 'vanished'. Valentich asked if it was a military aircraft, and after confirming the aircraft had vanished, he reported it was 'now approaching from the southwest'. His final words were about his engine idling and the 'thing is coughing', followed by his intention to go to King Island. An unexplained sound abruptly terminated the communications.

VUFORS Investigators Continue Investigation

While military and civilian aircraft searched the Bass Strait area, VUFORS investigators focused on witness interviews. Reports from that day and night described round objects, star-fish shaped objects, and silver cigar-shaped UFOs moving slowly with no visible means of propulsion, wings, or sound. Some witnesses reported objects changing color from silver to white and making sweeping curves. The objects were described as being about three-quarters the size of a Boeing 747, joined by silver beams.

Additional UFO Reports and Physical Trace Case

Further reports include a sighting on October 23rd, 1978, of a cigar-shaped light over Port Philip Bay that detached a smaller red light. This red object, described as star-fish shaped with red lights at each tip and emitting a humming sound, approached the beach before stopping and accelerating away. Another incident, the White Acres Farm physical trace case, occurred on September 30th, 1980. A witness reported a bell-shaped, orange and white UFO hovering over a water tank. The object emitted heat and stones, and the water tank was found to be nearly empty afterwards. The strange metallic sound heard during this encounter is theorized to be related to the UFO's operation.

Unusual Photograph

At 6:45 pm on October 21st, 1978, just before Valentich's final radio call, Roy Manifold photographed an object described as 'hurtling in a blur of speed and mist' out of the water near Cape Otway lighthouse. Computer analysis, including edge enhancement and color contouring, was used to examine the photographs, with critiques issued by GSW and other specialists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly emphasizes the importance of scientific, unbiased research into UFO phenomena, as stated in BUFORA's aims. The focus on the Valentich case and other detailed sightings and investigations suggests a stance of serious inquiry into unexplained aerial phenomena. The publication serves as a platform for sharing evidence, witness accounts, and the findings of dedicated researchers within the UFO community, particularly within the UK and Australia.

This issue of UFO DATA magazine, Volume 3, Issue 17, dated August 1984, focuses on a collection of UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) cases investigated by various researchers. The publication, likely from the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON), delves into sightings, encounters, and the ongoing efforts to understand these phenomena.

Key Cases and Investigations

The White Acres UFO

The issue begins with a description and sketch of a UFO model from White Acres, characterized as bell-shaped with an orange body, white dome, and a black rim. The landing site reportedly showed algae pulled to the sides of a tank, three vertical cracks, and rocks pulled in a path, suggesting a physical interaction with the environment.

Mansfield, Ohio Helicopter Case

This significant case, occurring five years prior to the Valentich disappearance, involved a US Army helicopter crew encountering a silver, cigar-shaped UFO with a green light. The object hovered overhead at 1700 feet and pulled the helicopter up to 3800 feet without control movement. The encounter also resulted in a loss of communications and affected the UFO's maneuverability, as later described by Valentich.

Frederick Valentich Disappearance

Three and a half years after the Valentich incident, the Australian Department of Transport released its final report, concluding that the cause of his disappearance over Bass Strait remains unknown. The article notes an improvement in government cooperation, with some reports being declassified, and highlights the ongoing discussions between officials and ufologists.

Repeater Ball Lightning? (Case 83-028)

Investigated by Clive Potter and UFORM, this case from September 5th, 1977, in Burbage Common, Leicestershire, involved a retired navigator observing four intense blue/white lights on the ground and a fifth greenish/yellow light that rose and sank. A subsequent whitish/yellow glow was seen moving across the sky. No sound was heard, and no ground traces were found, but the possibility of UAP electrical activity akin to ball lightning was raised, supported by previous similar phenomena witnessed by the observer.

UFOs Out at Sea (Case 83-023)

This section details a wave of UFO sightings in and around East Anglia during September-November 1983, often involving objects seen emerging from or entering the sea. A notable multi-witness event occurred near Bentwaters USAF base. One report from September 25th, 1983, describes a yacht captain observing brilliant white lights that formed a strange square shape and moved slowly towards land, remaining unexplained.

Case 83-026

Investigated by Bob Easton, this case compares with the previous one. A fishing vessel sighted a brilliant green ball that came slowly from the sea, leveled off, and moved out of view. The coastguard log recorded the sighting, and investigations ruled out flares and RAF Bentwaters exercises. The phenomenon is reminiscent of green fireballs seen near Los Alamos.

UFO Aerial Display Over Essex (Case 83-024)

Investigated by Mike Wootten and Steve Chetwynd on October 10th, 1983, in Hatfield Peverel, Essex, this complex sighting involved the Ashton family observing several lights (red, yellow, white, blue) that merged into about six 'objects'. Some objects headed north, while one split off and meandered. The main object descended and was dome or half-moon shaped. The witnesses were positive the objects were not aircraft, but military exercises could not be ruled out. A house clock was found to be 15 minutes slow, and the family reported rolling picture television interference.

Mini-Ball Lightning in a Town Centre? (Case 84-04)

Investigated by Paul Fuller on August 4th, 1984, in Winchester, Hampshire, this case involved a sales assistant observing a transparent bubble-like object, about 5cm in diameter with a dark central band. It floated west-east, backtrack, and rose steeply. The investigator concluded it was not an ordinary soap bubble, and the possibility of ball lightning was discussed, with the object's controlled behavior potentially due to a static electric charge.

Vodka Rustling in Cheshire! (Case 84.10)

Investigated by Nigel Farrell and MUFORA on September 22nd, 1984, in Warrington, Cheshire. This case involved two fifteen-year-old girls observing an object like a smartie cut in half with multiple lights, hovering over the Greenall factory. The object had a haze around it. The investigation considered air traffic as a possible explanation. Notably, Jenny Randles, who lives locally, saw what she identified as an aircraft, suggesting that a known stimulus can be distorted and media illusions can enhance strangeness.

Conclusions and Theories

The author summarizes Australian cases, comparing them to global UFO encounters, and highlights the Valentich case as exemplary due to its similarities with other encounters involving magnetic effects, ignition failure, and communication failures. The disappearance of Valentich and his Cessna is attributed to a UFO, with potential causes including electromagnetic effects stalling the engine or the aircraft disintegrating. The author predicts that in the future, people may experience household electrical malfunctions or vehicle ignition failures during UFO sightings, and dismisses conventional explanations like balloons or flocks of ducks.

References

The issue lists several references, including publications from the Victorian UFO Research Society (VUFORS), The Sun, The Herald, International UFO Reporter, and MUFON UFO Journal, along with specific articles by Paul Norman.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of UFO and UAP cases, the analysis of witness testimonies, and the exploration of potential causes, including natural phenomena like ball lightning and the possibility of advanced technology. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting cases for examination while also offering critical analysis and potential explanations, often leaning towards the belief that UFOs are involved in unexplained disappearances and encounters. There is an emphasis on the need for better government cooperation and declassification of reports.

This issue of "The Frontlines of Ufology" (Volume 17, Issue 147, April/May 1985) is a bi-monthly publication from Pitch and Moment Publications, priced at £3.95pa. It features articles by Hilary Evans, Brendan Taylor, and others, exploring various facets of UFO research and related phenomena.

The "OZ Factor" and Hypnosis in UFO Cases

The issue begins by discussing the "OZ Factor," a concept related to the pre-abduction state of consciousness, and its implications for classifying UFO encounters (CEs). The author argues that the absence of "eyewitness abductions" (where a third party witnesses someone being taken aboard a UFO) leaves room for alternative explanations. Cases like Rendlesham and Janos are examined, highlighting how hypnosis can alter or enhance witness memories, sometimes elevating a CE3 (UFO sighting) to a CE5 (abduction) or CE4 (alien encounter).

The Gaynor Sunderland case is presented as an intriguing aspect because hypnosis failed to move the experience beyond a CE3, despite Sunderland's imaginatively gifted nature. The discussion extends to the Travis Walton case, noting that much of the action occurred in a 'room' rather than on a UFO, and questions the common practice of conducting hypnotic regression in ordinary UFO encounters.

Mini-time lapses are also explored, using the PC Alan Godfrey case as an example. Godfrey's experience, initially a simple UFO sighting with no memory lapse, was potentially transformed into a CE5 through hypnosis, suggesting that many potential CE5s might be masked within existing CE2 cases.

Subjective Factors and Research Methodologies

The article critiques Ahmad's study on UFO abduction cases, particularly his criteria for "normal" conditions before abduction, suggesting they are insufficient. The author expresses doubt about the 100% normality figure for non-amnesia cases, arguing that the OZ Factor is subjective and often not detected in less rigorously researched cases, especially those from South America. It is suggested that the OZ Factor is more common than appreciated, even in CE1/CE2 cases, and that many such cases could become CE5s if hypnosis were employed.

Harry Harris's TRUTH research team is mentioned, which uses the detection of the OZ Factor as a major clue in their investigations, employing skeptical psychiatrists. The team has found that even in cases where only a CE4 memory was recalled, it could be considered an "aborted abduction."

Lawson's Birth Trauma Hypothesis and Cultural Influences

Lawson's birth trauma hypothesis is critically examined, with the author expressing doubt about its applicability, particularly to British cases. The similarity between alleged UFO entities and human fetuses is questioned, as British cases studied by TRUTH do not fit the American prototype used by Lawson. The author suggests that the cultural norm, molded by media stories, influences the perceived form of aliens, citing Britain's emphasis on British CE4/CE5 cases as an example.

Frontiers of Ufology: Interdisciplinary Perspectives

The magazine then delves into various "frontiers" of ufology, advocating for a broader, interdisciplinary approach:

The UFOLOGY/METEOROLOGY FRONTIER

This section discusses the overlap between UFOs and natural phenomena, mentioning lenticular clouds, Venus, and Bill Corliss's SOURCEBOOK PROJECT. Ball lightning is presented as a common explanation for UFO sightings, but its definition remains imperfect, making tentative identifications problematic. The relationship between ball lightning and earthquake lights is also raised.

The UFOLOGY/GEOLOGY FRONTIER

This frontier explores the correlation between geophysical phenomena and UFO reports. Paul Devereux and Michael Persinger's claims of quantitative correlations between geological conditions and UFO report fluctuations are noted. However, it's cautioned that these findings still leave room for interpretation, as geological events might also affect the human brain, triggering psychological effects like hallucinations.

The UFOLOGY/PSYCHOLOGY FRONTIER

Knowledge of how the human mind works is deemed essential for ufologists. The article notes the shift towards scientific approaches in witness evaluation, crediting work by Ken Phillips and Alex Keul. It highlights the importance of assessing witness dependability and understanding psychological factors that might influence reports, referencing Richard Haines' work.

The UFOLOGY/SOCIOLOGY FRONTIER

This section examines social forces influencing UFO situations, referencing the study "WHEN PROPHECY FAILS." It warns against biases and the emotional meaning UFOs carry in contemporary society, suggesting that people conditioned by extreme UFO beliefs may not be reliable witnesses. The influence of media and societal attitudes on UFO perceptions is discussed.

The UFOLOGY/RELIGIOUS BELIEFS FRONTIER

Religious beliefs are shown to color responses to UFOs, with some viewing them as Satanic. The article notes the radical differences in responses from tribal communities compared to fundamentalist Christians. The Fatima sighting in Portugal (1917) is presented as a potential ufological event with remarkable aerial phenomena, highlighting the correlation between UFO sightings and religious visions.

The UFOLOGY/PARAPSYCHOLOGY FRONTIER

This frontier addresses the reluctance of some ufologists to engage with psychic matters, despite growing evidence of links between physical and psychical phenomena. The concept of "electric sensitive" individuals, whose presence can cause spontaneous electronic effects, is mentioned, along with the association of UFOs and poltergeists.

The UFOLOGY/MYTHOLOGY FRONTIER

Studies of mythology and folklore are presented as relevant, with similarities noted between old chronicles and modern UFO reports. Bertrand Meheust's work on science fiction and UFO stories is highlighted, suggesting a degree of connection that defies simple cause-and-effect explanations. The influence of covert government practices and the potential for paranoia are also discussed.

Conclusion and Recommended Reading

The issue concludes by emphasizing that ufology must remain open-minded and willing to explore its frontiers, even those that seem irrelevant at first glance. A list of recommended reading is provided, including books on UFOs, psychology, mythology, and government cover-ups. The publication "NEWSPACE" is also mentioned as a bi-monthly covering space technology and flight.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme is the necessity of a broad, interdisciplinary approach to ufology, moving beyond narrow definitions and embracing insights from various scientific and social fields. The editorial stance advocates for critical yet open-minded investigation, acknowledging the complexities of witness testimony, the potential influence of psychological and cultural factors, and the global nature of the UFO enigma. There is a strong emphasis on the need for international collaboration to solve the UFO mystery.

This issue of the BUFORA BULLETIN, dated March 1985, is primarily focused on the analysis of UFO sightings and related research. It delves into specific cases, statistical data, and the psychological aspects of witness testimony.

Unexplained Sightings: Case Studies

The bulletin examines a selection of UFO sightings that fall into the '10 per cent' category, meaning they lack easy explanations through natural phenomena. Three specific cases are detailed:

• August 1955: Four individuals reported seeing an object resembling a row of lighted shop windows, which moved towards them and executed a right-angled turn. The object emitted bluish-green rays and produced a noise described as a mixture of an electric motor and a jet.
• 1965 (North-east Scotland): A female witness observed an orange glow hovering over a nearby wood. She described the object as 'disc shaped' and noted it gave off red and green flashes. It was perceived as solid, metallic, and finely polished.
• September 1980: Two witnesses observed a round, silvery object shaped like a child's swimming ring with a small dome on top. It had white lights around the outside and a black underside. It glided at an altitude of 200ft and disappeared behind trees. One witness reported a faint humming sound, while the other heard nothing.

Statistical Analysis of Sightings

The publication presents figures for the total number of reports in possession for the years 1976-1980:

• 1976: 11
• 1977: 49
• 1978: 37
• 1979: 21
• 1980: 11

The year 1977 stands out with the highest number of sightings, identified as a 'flap' year. The article posits that these 'flap' years occur in 10-yearly cycles and explores a potential connection with sunspots, noting that sunspots also follow 11-year cycles to reach maximum and minimum.

Further analysis breaks down monthly sightings for 1977 and compares them to 1978. A significant observation is that most sightings in 1977 occurred in the last six months of the year. The bulletin also provides a detailed list of sightings according to the 24-hour day, indicating that the peak period for sightings is between 6 PM and 11:59 PM, with a total of 47 sightings in those six hours, nearly half of the 97 total for the day.

The article suggests that more activity occurs at night, possibly due to the nature of the phenomenon or the reduced number of people around during the day. A theory called 'The Colour Element' is introduced, which relates to variations in perceived colors of objects by different witnesses, potentially due to differing light spectrum perception.

BUFORA Accredited Investigators

A list of 21 BUFORA Accredited Investigators is provided, including their names, addresses, and contact details. Twelve of these investigators are also RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) qualified.

NIC Meeting Report (March 1985)

A report on a National Investigators' Committee (NIC) meeting held in London on March 3rd, 1985, highlights several key discussions:

• Peter Day Film: Contact was made with SCUFORI regarding the Peter Day film. SCUFORI concluded the object was an F-111 aircraft that had crashed. However, contradictions were found in this conclusion, and the committee urged for a definite response and a return of the film.
• Photo Cases: Several issues arose, including Steeton Laboratory withdrawing assistance, Nigel Mortimer withdrawing from research, and UK computer enhancement facilities returning to the USA. However, an analyst was willing to analyze cases at no cost, with data to be sent to Tony Marshall. A complaint was also made about the non-return of material from BUFORA Research.
• Fulham Photographic Case: A multiple photographic case from June 21st, 1984, involving seven pictures of a circular mass of lights hovering over houses, was discussed. The debate centered on whether the object was an aircraft. Mike Wootten agreed to conduct comparison shots and log air movements.
• Anonymous Movie Film: A film shown in December 1984 is now being investigated by Jenny Randles and Peter Hough. Efforts to trace the cameraman through newspaper appeals have been unsuccessful.
• Computer Project: Mike Wootten has coded all 1980 cases onto a Spectrum file and is working on pre-1980 cases. A summary sheet for investigators was approved. BUFORA granted £10 for printing copies of the summary sheet and an explanatory manual.
• Anamnesis: Dr. Alec Keul's preliminary results suggest that the psychopathological theory does not explain all Close Encounters (CEs). Investigators were encouraged to apply anamnesis to a range of cases on a trial basis.

UFO Anamnesis: A Status Report

This section, presented by Ken Phillips at an Anglo-French OVNI-UFO Congress, discusses the UFO Anamnesis as a tool for investigating UFO witnesses. It emphasizes the importance of the 'human aspect' and the 'shell' of 'white noise' (social and personal dynamics) surrounding the 'UFO kernel.' The report suggests that perception errors can be as high as 100 percent and that investigators should act as witness counselors. The Austrian Witness Project (AWP) and English Witness Project (EWP) are mentioned, indicating that the psychopathological hypothesis is not holding up. Key indicators emerging are the 'promoter' of the report (not necessarily the witness) and powerful family dynamics.

Letters to the Editor

• UFOs in Scotland: Steuart Campbell argues that there is no evidence of extraterrestrial UFO activity in Scotland, stating that all reports can be explained by conventional means, misperceptions, or hoaxes. He concludes that UFOlogists are wasting their time.
• UFO Bibliography: Lionel Beer suggests additions to a UFO bibliography, including works by Kenneth Arnold, Hilary Evans, Richard Haines, Ion Hobana, Philip J. Klass, Jenny Randles, Carl Sagan, Robert Sheaffer, and Ronald D. Story. He also suggests deletions and additions to UK periodicals.
• UFOs Over London: Daniel Gooding reports viewing an unusual flying object with two red lights close together.

Book Review: The H.G. Wells Scrapbook

Nigel Watson reviews "The H.G. Wells Scrapbook" edited by Peter Haining. The review highlights the book's collection of drawings, photographs, and essays that explore H.G. Wells's impact on 20th-century thought, his inspirations, and his imaginative works like "The War of the Worlds" and "The Time Machine." The review notes Wells's early penchant for humor, prophecy, and skepticism, and his speculative ideas about future evolution.

Other Notes

• The NIC discussed the 'flares' case and offered AI status to David Pearson. Peter Johnson's ill-health led to Dot Street taking over as RIC for Anglia.
• NIC policy requires all investigators to sign the Code of Practice.
• The next NIC meeting was scheduled for May 4th, 1985.
• A "Hot Line" for the Halley Comet is provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the rigorous analysis of UFO sightings, the importance of statistical data, and the exploration of psychological factors influencing witness accounts. There is a clear emphasis on debunking or finding conventional explanations for reported phenomena, as exemplified by Steuart Campbell's letter. The publication also highlights the ongoing efforts of BUFORA and NIC investigators in collecting and analyzing data, and in developing methodologies like UFO Anamnesis. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations while acknowledging the complexities of the UFO phenomenon and the human element involved in reporting it.

This issue of the BULLETIN, published by BUFORA (British UFO Research Association), focuses on UFO sightings in the London area and the organization's operational needs. The publication date is inferred to be around May/June 1985 due to the mention of a June 1st lecture and a book published in April 1985. The overall tone suggests a dedicated but resource-constrained organization aiming to advance UFO research in Britain.

UFO Sightings and Reports

The primary content details several UFO sightings reported by individuals, primarily in the London area. One detailed account describes a series of observations made by a family member from different rooms in their house. At 10:30 PM, a UFO with two white lights, one turning red, was seen. By 11 PM, more UFOs appeared, with the most significant having green and white lights. This object hovered silently before retreating towards Tottenham Court Road. The observer concluded it was not a helicopter or aeroplane due to its hovering and silent nature, and felt the craft was aware of being viewed.

Further reports include sightings on April 26th, where a bright white light pulsated across the sky, leaving a trail, followed by distant red pulsing lights moving in the opposite direction. On April 29th, several strange 'aeroplanes' were observed, some emitting white spotlights. Two lights were seen moving towards Granville Square and then the Post Office Tower, alternating colors (white/orange/green) and flashing. Four or five lights were noted in total, with two white lights closing in slowly and moving towards the Tower. Another craft higher in the sky had three or four lights with alternating white/red movements. At approximately 8:40 PM, an aircraft with white/orange/green alternating lights was seen around the Post Office Tower, and at 8:56 PM, a craft with about four lights, one central orange light pulsating slowly, was observed.

On May 13th, three UFOs were seen exhibiting a wavering, zig-zagging motion, a movement described in UFO literature. This was noted as the third or fourth evening in the past two years that such bright pulsating lights were observed moving in this manner over the London area.

Diagrams are included to illustrate the positions and movements of UFOs relative to the moon, a star, and the Post Office Tower, with specific sightings labeled UFO 1, UFO 2, and UFO 3, along with approximate times (9:50 PM, after 10 PM) and brief descriptions of their movements.

BUFORA Operations and Appeals

Job Vacancies: The bulletin announces job vacancies within BUFORA's Research Department. Two honorary members are sought to assist with administration, requiring a typewriter and reasonable written English. A small budget is available for essential expenses. Enthusiasm for UFOlogy is a key qualification. These roles offer a chance to meet and correspond with others interested in UFOlogy. Additionally, a Research Secretary is needed to help with routine office jobs, such as arranging meetings of the Research Committee and the JTAP editorial board, replying to enquiries, and minuting meetings. Interested individuals are invited to write to the research headquarters or contact BUFORA at lecture meetings.

Resource Appeal: A section titled "S-D-S TO MEMBERS" highlights that BUFORA is poised for advances but is short of resources. They need to centralize their filing and administration in the Greater London area and urgently seek information about available office or industrial space where BUFORA can store its case histories and have a desk for a staff member.

Publications and Events

BUFORA Publications - Special Offer: Several publications are offered at a special rate to members, including "CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT 'LIVINGSTON'" (64pp), "UFO INVESTIGATOR. Standard Field Investigators Handbook", "CONGRESS '79" (32pp), and "VEHICLE INTERFERENCE PROJECT" by Geoffrey Falla (102pp). Applications are to be sent to Arnold West, with cheques or postal orders for the amount plus postage and packing.

21st Anniversary Memorabilia: Lionel Beer has copies of a four-page leaflet detailing BUFORA's history and special red badges overprinted with the Association's logo. Stamps are required for ordering these items.

Assorted BUFORA Bulletin/Journals: Four assorted issues are available for £1, including postage.

June Lecture: An extra lecture has been added to the 1984-85 Lecture Programme. It will be held at the London Business School on Saturday, June 1st, 1985, at 6:30 PM. The topic is expected to be UFOs and their treatment by the media. The guest speaker had not been confirmed at the time of going to press.

New Publication: "SCIENCE AND THE UFOs" by Jenny Randles and Peter Warrington, published by Basil Blackwell in April 1985 for £12.50, is reviewed. The book is described as the first survey of how science has tackled the UFO phenomenon, offering a challenge to scientists and UFO investigators. It suggests ways scientific standards can be applied and how the lay-person can contribute. The authors are critical of science and UFO experts but acknowledge the possibility of an underlying UFO reality, which may differ from popular media portrayals. Further details can be obtained from Luda Craddock at Basil Blackwell in Oxford.

Editorial Stance and Disclaimer

The British UFO Research Association states that it does not hold or express corporate views on UFO phenomena, and contributions reflect only the views of the editor or the author(s). Copy for publication must be sent directly to the editor. Original material is copyright to the contributor and BUFORA, with provisions for other copyright holders.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of UFO sightings, particularly in the London area, and the operational needs and activities of BUFORA. The organization actively seeks member participation through job vacancies and resource appeals, indicating a drive for growth and improved infrastructure. The editorial stance, as clarified by the disclaimer, is one of neutrality regarding UFO phenomena, focusing on presenting information and facilitating research, while acknowledging the complexity and potential reality of the subject matter as explored in new publications. The emphasis on scientific inquiry, even when critical, suggests a desire for rigorous investigation within the field.