BUFORA Bulletin - No 31 - Jan 1989 FINAL IN SERIES

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: Number 31
Date: January 1989
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd (British UFO Research Association)
Type: Magazine Issue

This is the final issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, marking a transition for the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) from their regular publication to a new, more innovative bi-monthly magazine set to launch in May. The editorial by Mike Wootten, Director of Publications, announces this change, expressing a desire for clearer design, easier readability, and timely distribution for the new publication. He also encourages new contributors with fresh perspectives to submit material.

Organizational Information

The issue provides comprehensive details about BUFORA's structure and aims. The organization was founded in 1964 and is registered in London, incorporating the London UFO Research Association (founded 1959) and the British UFO Association (founded 1962). Its primary aims are to encourage, promote, and conduct unbiased scientific research into UFO phenomena, collect and disseminate related evidence and data, and co-ordinate UFO research globally.

The leadership for 1987-88 is listed, including President Major Sir Patrick Wall, Vice President Lionel E. Beer, Founder President G.F.N. Knewstub, Council Chairman Arnold West, and Vice Chairman Stephen Gamble. The Council Members, Information Officer (R.D. Holland), Director of Research (Stephen Gamble), and Director of Investigations (Jenny Randles) are also detailed. The Membership Secretary and Secretary to Council are listed as John Spencer. Membership is open to all who support the association's aims, with applications approved by the executive committee.

BUFORA also maintains a Postal Library, which is newly organized and stocked with rare titles, available to members for business use. Member societies include Britain's oldest UFO group, BFSB.

Key Articles and Features

Editorial

Mike Wootten's editorial highlights the planned reorganization of BUFORA's publishing efforts, culminating in this final Bulletin. He expresses anticipation for the new magazine, aiming for improved design and timely delivery. The editorial also touches upon the Gulf Breeze case, noting the differing conclusions reached by MUFON (genuine) and CUFOS (hoax), and commends the professional conduct of both organizations.

All the PPPS (Progress, Planning, Presentation, Publications, Press, Promises, Predictions)

• This section, likely an annual review by Arnold West, details BUFORA's progress over the past year. Key points include:
• Progress: The Postal Library is operational, and substantial progress has been made on the Correspondence Course and Junior UFO News. Cataloguing of UFO case files is satisfactory.
• Planning: A meeting is scheduled for early spring to discuss improvements in operational procedures and administration.
• Presentation: Efforts are being made to improve the association's corporate image, with consistent use of the company logo on stationery and publications.
• Publications: The BUFORA Bulletin ceases publication with this issue, to be succeeded by the new magazine in May. The Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomenon will also cease, with its features incorporated into the new magazine.
• Press: BUFORA has withdrawn cooperation from some media sections due to speculative and facetious UFO-related stories, aiming to reduce abuse.
• Promises: Members can expect a lively new magazine and a more efficient organization.
• Predictions: The author does not foresee dramatic changes in the phenomena but expresses confidence in facing the future.

The Astronomical Reference Point Project (ARP)

Authored by Gary Anthony, a BUFORA Accredited Investigator, this feature introduces the Astronomical Reference Point Project (ARP). Developed by Anthony, ARP is designed to assist BUFORA investigators by collating UFO reports with astronomical and spaceflight (AS) events. Its objectives include drawing conclusions from comparisons, providing explanations for UFO reports by checking against AS sources, and offering detailed information on astronomical references and spacecraft data. The project utilizes two computers (a BBC micro and a Sharp MZ 711) to store AS reference programs and evaluation programs. Investigators wishing to use the service must submit a completed BUFORA UFO Sighting Account Form (R1) or a descriptive report containing specific details about the sighting.

Lecture in the North

This section announces a lecture to be held in Bradford on April 22nd, 1989, at Bradford Central Library. The lecture is jointly organized with the Independent UFO Network. Speakers include Peter Hough (The Ilkley Entity Photograph) and Philip Mantle (The Barnsley Photographs). The entrance fee is £2.00, with a reduced rate of £1.50 for BUFORA/IUN members. Further details can be obtained from Philip Mantle.

AGM Notice

The notice for the Fourteenth Annual General Meeting of BUFORA Ltd is published, scheduled for Saturday, March 4th, 1989, at The London Business School. The agenda includes receiving reports from the Chairman, Council of Management, Treasurer, Director of Research, and Director of Investigations, as well as appointing an auditor. The notice also details procedures for appointing proxies and nominating candidates for the Council of Management. Minutes from the Thirteenth Annual General Meeting held in March 1988 are also included, noting the acceptance of Major Sir Patrick Wall as President and the election of council members.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is transition and the future of BUFORA's publications and operations. The editorial stance is one of forward-looking optimism, emphasizing scientific research, organizational efficiency, and improved communication with members and the public. There is a clear intent to professionalize the organization and elevate its status. The issue also reflects a cautious approach to media engagement, aiming to curb sensationalism while still encouraging serious UFO research and reporting.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, Number 31, covers the annual reports and activities of the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) for the financial year ending 31st August 1988. The content includes reports from various departments and officials, financial statements, and details of the organization's progress and challenges.

Chairman's Report

Arnold West, the Chairman, reported that the past year was significant for progress and problems. Membership showed a small increase, with approximately sixteen percent of the monthly enquiries joining the Association. Future plans include incorporating the BUFORA Bulletin and Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomenon into a new magazine, with an intended inaugural issue in May 1989. West expressed regret for irregular magazine issues due to postal disputes and changes in editors' circumstances. BUFORA participated in the ITV Telethon with an exhibition at Jodrell Bank Visitor Centre. The new book 'Phenomenon', edited by John Spencer and Hilary Evans, became a best-seller, alongside 'Communion' and 'Intruders', raising public awareness of UFO phenomena. Higher news-clip bills and production expenses for 'Phenomenon' contributed to an excess of expenditure over income, which is expected to be offset by future royalties. West thanked members of the Council, Jim Danby (Membership Secretary), Michael Hudson (Postal Library), and researchers/investigators for their support. Hilary Evans would retire from Council due to professional commitments but would continue as a consultant.

Director of Publications Report

Mike Wootten reported that 1987-88 was the most successful year for BUFORA's publishing department, highlighted by the release of 'UFOs: 1947-1987' and 'Phenomenon', edited by John Spencer and Hilary Evans. These books were valuable financially and reinforced BUFORA's importance in ufology. 'Phenomenon' achieved multiple paperback and hardback reprints. Wootten thanked the editors and international contributors. 'The UFO World '87', edited by Jenny Randles, was also published and sold well. During the year, two newsletters, two JTAPs, and three Bulletins were produced, totaling over 2100 mailings. While layout and content quality improved, production problems led to late arrivals of some publications, mainly due to editors' personal commitments and a lack of production assistance. The purchase of a dedicated word processor was intended to improve production efficiency. Thanks were extended to contributors and those who assisted with production.

Director of Investigations Report

During 1988, the Investigations department focused on following up UFO sighting reports and preparing detailed case histories. By late 1988, 60 cases had been entered, with seven rated as unexplained after investigation. IFO sightings were not pursued. Cases were received through a press cutting agency, which provided a record number of cuttings (over 850), including many spurious articles from tabloids. Genuine interest was noted in the Mundrabilla, Australia sighting and the Peter Beard photographic case from Barnsley. Media attention also focused on BUFORA-associated books. The department maintained contacts with police and university departments and was even contacted by the Ministry of Defence. Significant effort was dedicated to analyzing the Barnsley photographs, involving Philip Mantle, Andy Roberts, Dave Clarke, Nigel Smith, and Dr Bruce Maccabee. While the results were disappointing regarding authenticity, the study was thorough. The report noted few impressive cases during the year.

Treasurer's Report

Simon Rose, Honorary Treasurer, presented the Balance Sheet and Statement of Accounts. Expenditure exceeded income, a situation described as misleading due to the timing of payments to contributors for 'Phenomenon', with the second payment from publishers due in the next accounting period. Expenses were high, particularly the newsclipping service, which rose to nearly £800 due to increased interest in the subject. Subscriptions had fallen, but income from the lecture program remained healthy. The financial year ended with a reduced balance in the building society and bank, though the organization remained solvent. Rose urged members to strive to increase the membership base.

Report of the Auditor

N. O'Brien, FCA, Chartered Accountant, reported that the financial statements, prepared under the historical cost convention, gave a true and fair view of the company's affairs as at 31st August 1988. The audit was conducted in accordance with approved Auditing Standards. The company's control system was dependent on the close involvement of directors, and assurances from directors were accepted where independent confirmation was not available. The statements comply with the Company's Act 1985.

Council of Management Report

The report covered the period from 1st September 1987 to 31st August 1988. The principal activities focused on encouraging, promoting, and conducting unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena. The membership stood at 288. Public lectures were held at the London Business School. The report detailed the members of the Council of Management as of 31st August 1987 and those retiring by rotation. No member of Council received remuneration. The report also noted the upcoming International Conference in July 1989. The Investigations Department produced a booklet titled 'INVESTIGATION, the N.I.C. Guide', and a correspondence course was delayed due to a computer disaster. The report thanked James Danby for his assistance as Membership Secretary. Hilary Evans was retiring from Council but would continue as a consultant.

Meeting Minutes and Elections

The minutes detail various reports presented at a meeting, including the Chairman's, Director of Research's, Director of Investigations', Director of Publications', and Treasurer's reports. The appointment of the President was made by the Council. The reference library was operational. The passing of Mr Charles Bowen, former editor of 'Flying Saucer Review', was noted. Elections for the Council of Management were held, with seven members appointed. Three further nominations were accepted. The meeting concluded with the approval of the Council of Management report, the Auditor's report, and the accounts for the year ended 31st August 1988. An amendment to Article 35 of the Articles of Association was proposed and passed, allowing the Council to co-opt up to three specialist advisors. The appointment of the auditor and the fixing of their remuneration were also approved.

Financial Statements

The Balance Sheet as at 31st August 1988 shows BUFORA Limited with fixed assets of £710 and current assets of £2414. Current liabilities amounted to £1139. The General Fund balance was £1985, with an excess of expenditure over income for the year of (£862). The Income & Expenditure Account for the year ending 31st August 1988 shows total income of £4129 and total expenditure of £4991, resulting in the excess of expenditure over income. Income sources included subscriptions, donations, publications, and interest. Expenditure covered publications, stationery, research, lecture costs, registration, and audit fees.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the operational and financial status of BUFORA, the progress of its research and publishing activities, and the challenges faced in maintaining regular publications. The editorial stance appears to be one of transparency and diligence, providing detailed reports on the organization's performance, financial health, and ongoing projects. There is a clear emphasis on scientific research, public awareness, and the importance of membership for the organization's sustainability.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, Number 31, focuses on the activities and research within the organization. It includes reports from the National Investigations Committee (NIC) and the Research Department, a book review, a viewpoint on ufology, and announcements for upcoming events.

National Investigations Committee (NIC) Report

The NIC is responsible to the BUFORA Council and comprises Accredited Investigators (AIs). The report notes the loss of East Anglian Co-ordinator Peter Johnson and states there are currently 22 AIs with three provisionals. The NIC met five times during the year in various locations across the UK. Links have been established with SKYSCAN and ASSAP for co-operation on cases to prevent duplication. Michael Lewis is the BUFORA co-ordinator for the ASSAP national co-ordinator post. The NIC released a booklet for AIs on case report formats and guidelines, and work is proceeding on 'Case History' (the Peter Day movie film case) and an updated report on mystery circles. BUFORA's NIC was represented on television shows like 'Kilroy' and 'The Time, The Place'. The NIC also assisted with the ITV 'Telethon' charity event, organizing sites and contributing to publicity, which led to older cases being reported to the 'UFO Witness Surgery'. This effort raised over £1000.

Report of the Research Department

For the period ending 31/8/88, S. Gamble continued as Director of Research. The department's primary work involved research into UFO phenomena and technical support for field investigations. Two research committee meetings were held, and representatives attended national investigations committee meetings. Mike Wootten worked on computerised indexing of case reports but would not continue beyond the BUFORA year; Mike Hudson has taken over. The case index is being transferred to work on computers using the CP/M operating system, particularly the Amstrad PCW range. Paul Fuller continued work on circular damage to fields of cereal crops, with updates appearing in BUFORA publications. Ernest Still, Clive Potter, and Ray Shaw assisted with crop damage investigations in Leicestershire. Nigel Smith headed the photographic and traces group, assisted by Roger Chinery and Steve Gamble. The department monitored computer use for UFO research. Two issues of the Journal of Transient Aerial Phenomena were issued. Ken Phillips began establishing a translators panel to help with translating foreign journals, with Peter Harvey working on the UMMO series of cases from Spain. Mike Wootten, assisted by Gaynor Sunderland, continued refurbishing case report files, with a decision to centralise reports at the registered office. Several individuals assisted Steve Gamble in the research department's work.

Book Review: 'Dimensions' by Jacques Vallee

John Spencer reviews Jacques Vallee's book 'Dimensions', published by Souvenir Press. He describes it as a well-thought-out and refreshingly vital book that challenges conventional thinking, similar to Vallee's earlier works. Spencer notes that Vallee's thinking is flexible and unrestrained, and he proposes a new theory about UFO data inconsistencies involving two competing races. The review highlights Vallee's work on folklore connections, spiritual dimensions, and associated phenomena of other peoples, including his use of the name 'Secret Commonwealth' for elves and 'little people'. Spencer eagerly awaits Vallee's next book and recommends 'Dimensions' for those who want to discover the UFO phenomenon for themselves. He mentions an interview where Vallee describes his mind working like a sponge absorbing data.

Viewpoint: UFOLOGY: DIVIDED BY TWO NATIONS?

Jenny Randles discusses the differences between American and British ufology. She posits that UFOs are objective phenomena, possibly of several different sorts, and prefers the term UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena). Randles addresses the issue of abductions, acknowledging it as a growth area but expressing dissatisfaction with attempts to explain it away psychologically or as 'space kidnap'. She believes the evidence is supportive of both ideas, which is worrying. Randles agrees that the full extent of the abduction phenomenon may not be known and that complications are likely. She recounts an instance where a woman claimed to be kidnapped after watching a TV show, noting the woman's distress. Randles states that from her first-hand experience investigating British abduction reports, she does not believe they are mere hallucinations or products of the human psyche, but acknowledges that these cases differ from UAP type events. She contrasts UAPs, which are seen and have radar support, with abductions, which are experienced and are more isolated events. She suggests that abductions hint at being separate from UFOs and may represent an essentially subjective abduction phenomenon.

Rencontres de Lyon Congress

Information is provided about the third European 'Rencontres de Lyon 1989' Congress, scheduled for April 29th-May 1st. The congress is open to all interested individuals and groups to increase knowledge and debate the UFO phenomenon. It is described as a French forum for ideas and thoughts, acting as a crossroads for ufologists and scientists to publicise research, exchange views, and find publishers or translation rights. The location in Lyon is easily accessible, with good facilities and reasonable prices. Contact information for Philip Mantle is provided.

Questionnaire

A questionnaire is included to help BUFORA improve its publications. Readers are asked how they heard about BUFORA, which magazines they read and their priority, which parts of the BUFORA Bulletin they prefer, and what they would like to see more of in future publications. Readers are also invited to provide further comments or suggestions.

Diary

The diary lists upcoming BUFORA lectures and events: How to Investigate Spontaneous Cases with Tony Cornell (4th February), BUFORA Annual General Meeting followed by a lecture 'In Ken Arnold's Footsteps' with Pierre Lagrange (4th March), and 'Aliens a Natural History' with Ralph Noyes (1st April), all at the LBS. A BUFORA/IUN lecture at Bradford Central Library is also listed for 22nd April. Details are provided for BUFORA lectures held on the first Saturday of each month at the London Business School, with lectures starting at 6.30pm. Full programme details are available from BUFORA.

Book Advertisement: UFOs 1947-1987

An advertisement for 'UFOs 1947-1987: The 40-Year Search for an Explanation', an anthology compiled for BUFORA by Hilary Evans and John Spencer. It commemorates 40 years of worldwide UFO investigation and includes commissioned articles, significant cases, and current thinking on the origin of the UFO. The book is available from BUFORA for £12.50 including postage and packing.

Donations

A list of individuals who made donations to BUFORA between 1st September 1987 and 31st August 1988 is provided. The Council of BUFORA Ltd thanks members and supporters for their continued support.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the detailed reporting of UFO investigation activities, the challenges and nuances of the abduction phenomenon, the importance of rigorous research methods, and the promotion of ufological knowledge through publications, lectures, and conferences. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious but open-minded investigation, acknowledging the complexities of the subject while striving for clarity and accuracy. There is a clear emphasis on the work of BUFORA as an organization dedicated to advancing the study of UFOs and related phenomena, fostering collaboration, and educating the public.