BUFORA Bulletin - No 22 - Jul 1986

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No. 22
Date: July 1986
Publisher: BUFORA Limited
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated July 1986, focuses heavily on UFO sightings and related research, with a significant portion dedicated to reports from Australia. It includes organizational details for BUFORA, its council members, and various branches.

Contents and Articles

The South Australian UFO Scene This section compiles several witness accounts of UFO sightings in South Australia. Reports include:

• June 30th, 1985: Gary Clayton reported a perfectly round white light following his truck across the Nullarbor from South Australia to Perth.
• July 9th, 1985: Two people camping at Mount Crawford, north of Adelaide, saw a bluish ball of light about half a metre across with a tail.
• December 18th, 1981: Mr Tuck reported an oval tear-shaped object moving very fast near Blanchtown on the River Murray. The object stopped and then accelerated upwards.
• August 1st, 1985: Mr Craig sighted an object flying fast from right to left near the North East Road, disappearing suddenly.
• August 11th, 1985: At Hackham West, Mr Reed and three witnesses saw a round oval shaped object with flashing lights that disappeared quickly.
• August 20th, 1985: Mr Dean Finch observed a black object with bright white and smaller orange lights in the Adelaide Hills, which hovered and then vanished.
• September 2nd, 1985: A phone call reported an unusual experience involving two vehicles and a person vanishing.
• September 7th, 1985: Jeffrey Dermann and his father saw a large, dull yellow object with a humming noise, described as zig-zagging, in Adelaide.
• September 8th, 1985: Mr Cockburn and family saw two bright-bluish flashing lights in an oval grey object that moved and flashed.
• September 5th, 1985: Mr Paul Page saw a square-shaped object between 200-300 feet above the ground.
• September 27th, 1985: Mr Max Burgemeister reported a green-back to blue nose and red/orange tail object travelling faster than his car.
• November 22nd, 1985: Several sightings from the metropolitan area of Adelaide are detailed, including an oval orange object and a round red object seen by Mrs L.D. Atkins.
• November 22nd, 1985: Mr Alexander Fragnito observed a black dot followed by a stream of exhaust vapour.
• November 22nd, 1985: A lady and her mother saw a silver/white object near Mount Barker.
• November 27th, 1985: Joan Downs reported a phenomena resembling a radar disc with a rainbow circle, affecting the sun.

The Depths of Credibility This article by Jenny Randles reviews the book 'THE EYE OF FIRE' by Graham Phillips and Martin Keatman. It also delves into the author's own controversial book, 'ALIEN CONTACT', which details the experiences of the Sunderland family. Randles discusses the challenges of assessing the credibility of witnesses, particularly in cases involving children, and the sociological factors that might influence such reports. The article touches upon the difficulty of separating genuine phenomena from self-delusion or fantasy.

UFO Saga This section, likely a continuation or related piece to the 'Alien Contact' discussion, explores the Sunderland family's experiences further. It mentions the initial anonymous report in the Liverpool Daily Post and the subsequent investigation by UFO enthusiasts. The author expresses skepticism about the 'reality status' of some reported events but finds the family credible. The potential for a Hollywood film based on the story is also mentioned, along with the difficulties in its production.

Self Deluded Fantasies? This part of the article questions the nature of the reported experiences, contrasting them with potential self-delusion. It highlights Gaynor Sunderland's dream-like descriptions and the author's own internal pondering on the seriousness of the claims. The author reflects on the challenges of writing the book 'Alien Contact', particularly regarding the use of real names and the potential impact on the subjects' lives.

Original Trio This brief section mentions Andy Collins, an Essex investigator, and the founding of a Midlands journal called STRANGE PHENOMENA in the late 1970s.

BUFORA Organization and Membership

Council (1985-86): The issue lists the council members, including the President (The Rt.Hon Earl of Clancarty), Vice-Presidents, Chairman (Arnold West), Vice-Chairman, and various council members who also hold specific roles such as Director of Publications, Librarian, Director of Research, and Training Officer. The positions of President and Treasurer are noted as 'Post to be filled'.

Membership: Information on membership is provided, stating it is open to all who support BUFORA's aims and whose application is approved. Application forms can be obtained from any Association officer.

Contact Information: Details for the BUFORA Edinburgh Branch and the registered office of BUFORA Limited are included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, witness credibility, and the scientific approach to researching anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation while maintaining a critical eye towards the evidence and the psychological factors that might influence reports. The publication aims to collect and disseminate data on UFOs and coordinate research within the UK and internationally. The inclusion of book reviews and discussions on the nature of UFO experiences suggests a commitment to exploring various facets of the subject, from anecdotal reports to in-depth case studies and their interpretation.

This issue of ALIEN CONTACT, dated May 1986, with a cover price of £1.50, focuses on a peculiar psychic quest that deviates from traditional UFO investigations. The main cover headline highlights "THE ECONOMIC RECESSION," suggesting a broader context for the content.

The Psychic Quest: The Sword and the Stone

The issue details an extraordinary psychic quest undertaken by Martin Keatman, Graham Phillips, and the Sunderland family, which Andy Collins was initially involved in. This quest moved away from UFOs and aliens towards mediumistic messages and a treasure hunt. Andy Collins recounts how the team, with the Sunderlands' cooperation, embarked on a quest for a green stone, purportedly belonging to an ancient warrior queen named Gwevereugh. This stone was allegedly charged at nine stone circles across Britain and then taken to Staffordshire to combat an 'evil force.' The author expresses skepticism, comparing the narrative to "LORD OF THE RINGS," but acknowledges that the sword and stone existed. Andy Collins wrote a privately published booklet titled "THE SWORD AND THE STONE" detailing these events.

The author, who had a responsibility to defend ALIEN CONTACT, felt compelled to write a foreword for the book Keatman and Phillips were writing. He notes parallels between the quest and "THE CHRONICLES OF THOMAS COVENANT." The book, titled "THE GREEN STONE," emerged in early 1983, with the author admitting he has no knowledge of the events within and finds the claims difficult to believe yet impossible to entirely dismiss.

Three Lights and HOAX?

A significant event discussed is the observation of three yellowish white globes of light forming a triangle, seen above the Avebury stone circle in Wiltshire in September 1980. This sighting occurred while the author and Paul were writing their book and was not mentioned in "THE GREEN STONE" but was in "ALIEN CONTACT." The author questions whether the story of the quest was deliberately woven into the narrative based on their sighting, suggesting the quest might have been a hoax.

Sequels and Credibility

The issue also reviews "THE EYE OF FIRE," a sequel to "THE GREEN STONE." This book, set in 1982, continues the narrative of the green stone being kept in a bank vault, involving trances, messages, and psychic battles. The author finds the writing melodramatic and unbelievable, comparing it to a Stephen King novel and dismissing its claims as less credible than an episode of "Dallas." Despite enjoying the book on one level, the author feels the authors have forfeited their right to be taken seriously by presenting it as a novel based loosely on truth.

Steuart Campbell's Article and UFO Explanations

Jenny Randles responds to Steuart Campbell's article on astronomical UFOs, acknowledging the validity of points about stellar IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) but cautioning against over-generalization. She uses the Lincolnshire car chase and the Cash-Landrum case as examples where astronomical explanations might be considered. However, she strongly disputes the astronomical explanation for the Rendlesham Forest incident and the associated helicopter sightings, questioning the evidence and the authors' credibility.

Space Travel and Communication Theory

Martin Gottschall's article explores "SPACE TRAVEL AND COMMUNICATION." He proposes a theory that space is a fluid medium that can move, distinct from matter. This concept allows for gravitational propulsion and faster-than-light travel and communication, bypassing the limitations of the speed of light. The theory posits that space fields, when manipulated, can create gravitational effects and potentially release vast amounts of energy.

Secret Stealth Plane

An article from the Daily Telegraph (March 20th, 1986) reports on America's top-secret Stealth aircraft, the Lockheed F-19, operating out of Mildenhall base in Suffolk. The aircraft, developed from the XST, is designed to be almost invisible to radar and infra-red sensors and features a 'chameleon' skin that adapts its color. Unconfirmed reports suggest nearly 30 visits to Britain, with the aircraft operating primarily at night.

Flying Saucers: 'Nothing to Worry About'

Another Daily Telegraph article (January 3rd, 1986) reveals that Sir Winston Churchill ordered a ministerial report on flying saucers. The response from the Air Ministry indicated that the phenomenon did not amount to much, satisfying the Prime Minister.

BUFORA Bulletin

The BUFORA Bulletin apologizes for late publication due to production difficulties and late arrival of copy, particularly concerning a malfunctioning typewriter. Several articles, including a tribute to Allan J. Hynek and Letters to the Editor, have been postponed to the November issue.

In Memoriam: Miss Betty Wood

The issue includes a tribute to Miss Betty Wood, Secretary of BUFORA for over 17 years, who passed away on March 6th, 1986, at the age of 57. She is remembered for her unstinting dedication, cheerful manner, and wide-ranging interests in ufology, Atalanterns, Egyptology, and the paranormal. Her book, "THE HEALING POWER OF COLOUR," was published in 1984.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue grapples with the blurring lines between genuine unexplained phenomena and sensationalized narratives. The author's stance appears to be one of cautious skepticism, particularly regarding the psychic quest, while remaining open to the possibility of genuine unexplained events. The exploration of theoretical physics in space travel suggests a forward-looking perspective, while the inclusion of news on military aircraft and historical UFO inquiries grounds the magazine in contemporary and past events. The recurring theme is the evolving nature of the UFO phenomenon and how it is interpreted and presented to the public.

This issue of the Daily Telegraph, dated May 1st, 1986, features a cover story on a functional 'flying saucer' and an article on a massive astronomical discovery. It also delves into UFO data processing and a lecture on crop circles.

Saucer Takes a Spin

The lead article, 'Saucer takes a spin,' by John Dudman, introduces the Hystar flying saucer, a real-world aircraft developed by George Ninkovich and Dale Kramer. Initially conceived for logging in remote Canadian backwoods, the saucer can fly straight up, down, sideways, and perform complex maneuvers. Ninkovich, president of Hystar Aerospace Development Corporation, explains the origins of the project, which involved recruiting aircraft engineers and designers. The aircraft utilizes the latest vertical take-off technology with propellers or ducted fans. The Hystar can lift heavy logs using a remote-controlled hook. Ninkovich is promoting four types of the aircraft, ranging from remote-controlled versions to larger machines with diameters of 115 feet and a height of 46 feet, capable of carrying 15,000 lbs. The mini-flying saucer, with a gleaming white laminated skin, is intended for indoor demonstrations and will be showcased at Expo '86 and the Farnborough Air Show. Larger versions are envisioned for uses such as platforms for television crews and monitoring utility lines. Ninkovich claims that learning to fly the Hystar solo takes about six hours, emphasizing its ease of use. The article concludes by wondering about Prince Charles's reaction if he accepts the challenge to fly it.

Huge Object Puzzles Astronomers

Written by Adrian Berry, Science Correspondent, this article reports on a significant astronomical discovery. Astronomers have found a gigantic, yet invisible, object more than a thousand times heavier than the Milky Way galaxy, located halfway between Earth and the edge of the known universe. The existence of this object is expected to revolutionize our understanding of the universe. The evidence for this discovery was gathered last month using the 158-inch telescope at Kitt Peak, Arizona. The telescope observed a quasar, an object at the edge of the universe, appearing to have a double image. This phenomenon suggests that a dark object between the quasar and Earth is distorting and splitting the quasar's light. The separation of the two identical images is more than a 20th of a degree, indicating that the invisible object's gravity is unimaginably massive. Astronomers generally agree that the most likely explanation is a black hole, but one that is 200 million times more massive than any previously discovered.

A 'Close Encounter' Puzzle for Couple

This article from the Burton Mail reports on a UFO sighting by pensioners Leo and Jose Barker of Stapenhill. The couple claims to have witnessed a cigar-shaped cluster of stars with a red light on 14 consecutive nights from their home. Mrs. Barker is skeptical about alien objects but is mystified by the sightings. She describes the object as moving across the sky very quickly and appearing for about two hours before disappearing. The couple has no theories about what it could be. Mr. Leo Barker, a retired miner, has challenged anyone to witness the lights for themselves, stating that he now believes in UFOs. Peter Ann, Derbyshire group leader of the National UFO Investigation Society, stated that checks would be made to find a rational explanation, such as a satellite or planet, and that the Barkers would be sent a report form if the sighting is deemed a possible UFO encounter. The article also provides contact information for anyone else who may have seen the object.

UFO Data Processing

Mike Wootton presents an article titled 'An Insight into the Problems and Advantages of Data Processing UFO Case Reports and a Description of BUFORA's Working Computer System.' Wootton explains that for nearly two years, BUFORA has been compiling the BUFORA Case Report Database. He emphasizes that computer technology alone will not solve the UFO enigma due to its logical nature contrasting with the unpredictable nature of UFOs. The database aims to provide an electronic card index system to house filed case reports, eliminating the arduous task of manual searching through approximately 15,000 reports. The chosen system, ZK Spectrum, was selected due to financial constraints. The database has 13 main headings, including BUFORA Reference, Level, Type, Date, Time, Locale, Duration, Apparent Size, Shape, Colour, Notes, Evaluation, and Investigator. The article details how each parameter is coded and processed, with specific examples of case reports and their printouts. The database currently holds around 600 case reports from the late 1970s to the present, with ongoing efforts to code and add more. Wootton concludes that while the database is a start, it is crucial to share data among UFO groups to foster understanding. He stresses that a flexible phenomenon cannot be structured rigidly.

Going Around in Circles

This section reports on a lecture held on July 14th, 1986, at the London Business School, discussing 'The Mystery of the Circles.' Over 50 members and guests attended the lecture, which focused on strange formations that have reappeared in the Winchester area. Speakers included Dr. Terence Mearden, Paul Fuller, and Jenny Randles. BUFORA has been researching these circles for six years and believes they have found an answer to this phenomenon. A more detailed report is expected in the November BULLETIN. Mike Wootton was responsible for the organizational work for the meeting, which was considered a great success.

Other Content

The issue also includes a critique of a book titled 'The Uninvited' by Frank Taylor, suggesting it may be a fabrication based on real UFO cases and personal accounts. The author questions the accuracy of details within the book, such as train routes and alleged abduction scenarios, and points out potential inconsistencies. The article also mentions that BUFORA did not receive an alleged press story related to the book through their subscription service. Another part of the article investigates the real-world basis of a pub mentioned in 'The Uninvited 2,' confirming its existence and the relocation of its owners.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO phenomena, investigative techniques, and the processing of UFO data. There is an emphasis on scientific research and the need for unbiased analysis, as seen in the detailed description of BUFORA's database. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, acknowledging the complexity and multi-faceted nature of UFOs, while also being critical of unsubstantiated claims and potential fabrications in popular UFO literature. The importance of data collection, organization, and sharing among researchers is a recurring theme.

Title: The UFO World '86
Issue: Compiled by Jenny Randles on behalf of BUFORA
Date: 1986
Publisher: BUFORA
Price: £1.50

This compilation provides an international update on the UFO world during 1985, featuring reports from various countries and articles by UFO researchers. It aims to offer a comprehensive overview of UFO activity and investigations.

Investigation into 'The Uninvited 2' by Frank Taylor

The primary focus of this issue is a critical examination of Frank Taylor's book, 'The Uninvited 2: The Visitation,' which details alleged UFO sightings and a police cover-up in Matlock, Derbyshire, in July 1981. The author of this article, investigating the claims, found them to be highly dubious. The owner of the Horseshoe Inn, where the alleged events took place, and a former barmaid both dismissed the story as nonsense and a joke within the local community. Matlock police, when contacted, stated they had no records of any such incidents, with one inspector suggesting UFO reports often turn out to be misidentified stars. The police also noted that files relating to that period were no longer retained.

The article highlights discrepancies and potential fraud, noting that Taylor admitted to altering times and settings in his book to improve the narrative flow, which undermines the book's claim of factual reporting. The investigation also attempted to contact a ufologist named 'Roy Campbell' mentioned in the book, but was told he was no longer in contact and his whereabouts were unknown. Local inquiries among farmers in the area also yielded no information about unusual police activity or UFO sightings.

Despite the author's offer to meet witnesses and preserve their anonymity, no one took up the offer. The investigative team concluded that the book was a work of fiction, possibly embodying ideas from published cases, but lacking verifiable evidence. The article suggests that if the book is indeed fraudulent, it is the duty of UFO investigators to expose the truth.

Book Reviews

The Loch Ness Monster: The Evidence by Steuart Campbell

Steuart Campbell's book is reviewed, with the reviewer largely agreeing with Campbell's conclusion that there is no reason to believe in lake monsters. Campbell demonstrates that most evidence, including eyewitness reports, photographs, and sonar soundings, can be explained by natural phenomena such as bow waves, rotting vegetation, ships' wakes, otters, submerged rock outcroppings, or deliberate hoaxes. The reviewer notes that while Campbell effectively debunks the monster's existence, the book's closing sentence, which dismisses any belief in the inexplicable, is questioned. The reviewer suggests that people cling to beliefs in UFOs, Nessie, and other phenomena because science, in its attempt to rationalize everything, can remove the sense of wonder and mystery from life.

Mind Over Matter: The Case For Psychokinesis by D. Scott Rogo

This book is described as an excellent introduction to the subject of psychokinesis (PK) by a seasoned parapsychologist. It covers both anecdotal and laboratory evidence. The review points out a few minor criticisms, such as the lack of references for certain claims and a discussion of 'watery poltergeists.' The review notes that Rogo's discussion of the Cambridge sittings with Palladino is largely accurate, though it might have benefited from mentioning her initial successes. The reviewer concludes that the book is useful for newcomers to psychical research, offering a readable overview of the facts and pitfalls of the field.

The Moving Statue of Ballinspittle and Related Phenomena by Lionel Beer

This book reviews the Marian apparitions at Ballinspittle, Southern Ireland, in the summer of 1985. The phenomenon began when a teenage girl reported seeing the Virgin's statue rock to and fro. The event attracted significant public attention, with an estimated 100,000 visitors converging on the site. The author, Lionel Beer, visited the area himself and drew from first-hand sources. The book is presented as a definitive and reasoned statement on the strange event, acknowledging that the phenomenon cannot be easily explained. The reviewer praises the book for being topical and well-researched, drawn from direct sources in the aftermath of the events, and suggests that dismissing it as mere hallucination is too simplistic.

Other Reports and Features

The UFO World '86 Compilation

This compilation is presented as an international update on the UFO world during 1985. It includes reports from Australia, Denmark, France, Scandinavia, Switzerland, the USA, and the UK. The booklet features articles by Darren P. Charter and Ian Cresswell, and a review of UFO publications from 1985. It is considered a much-needed service in a world where ufological information is often insular. Copies can be obtained from Arnold West or Jenny Randles.

Dr. Jacques Vallee Lecture

A lecture by Dr. Jacques Vallee, a prominent ufologist, was held in London. The lecture, titled 'Close Encounters of the Fourth Dimensional Kind,' was attended by many seasoned researchers. The presentation covered classic cases such as Betty and Barney Hill, and Lonnie Zamora, but offered no new approaches or solutions. Vallee suggested that UFOs are a multi-faceted phenomenon, with some cases possibly representing phenomena from another dimension, but expressed disappointment if UFOs had an extraterrestrial solution, believing there to be a better answer. The Centre for UFO Research (CUFOR), which organized the lecture and is opening a London branch, is described as being solely interested in the extraterrestrial hypothesis (ETH), which the reviewer believes may lead to difficulties in the UK due to the cautious nature of British ufologists.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the authenticity of UFO claims and books, emphasizing the need for rigorous investigation and evidence. There is a strong skepticism towards sensationalized accounts, particularly those presented as factual without sufficient proof. The editorial stance appears to favor a rational and scientific approach, while acknowledging the human desire for wonder and the inexplicable. The importance of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and potential fraud or misrepresentation is a recurring theme. The compilation also touches upon other paranormal subjects, such as psychokinesis and Marian apparitions, reviewing books on these topics and presenting them within the broader context of unexplained phenomena.