UFO Times - No 38 - Nov Dec 1995

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO times
Issue: Number 38
Date: November/December 1995
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd
Country: UK

This issue of UFO times, a publication of BUFORA (British UFO Research Association), delves into several key topics within the ufology community, with a strong emphasis on the controversial Santilli alien autopsy film and the broader implications of government transparency in UFO research.

Editorial: Freedom of Information

Mike Wootten, the editor, opens the issue with a powerful editorial on the importance of Freedom of Information (FOI) in a democracy, contrasting the UK's lack of a comprehensive FOI act with countries like Australia, New Zealand, the US, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, and France. He highlights the Ministry of Defence's (MoD) reluctance to release UFO files, citing a recent campaign, 'Operation Right to Know,' coordinated by John Holman, which demonstrated outside the House of Commons. Wootten recalls a period when information flow improved under Nick Pope, the MoD's former 'UFO person,' with BUFORA even assisting in case evaluations. However, this cooperation ceased with Pope's departure and the appointment of his successor, Kerry Philpott. Wootten argues that the lack of a FOI act allows for a 'cover-up of ignorance' rather than a deliberate conspiracy, and that releasing files, even if they don't reveal alien visitation, would provide vital evidence for serious scientific study.

Mantle Responds

Philip Mantle, BUFORA's Director of Investigations, addresses criticisms from David Clarke and Jenny Randles regarding BUFORA's involvement with Ray Santilli's alleged alien autopsy film. Mantle refutes several points made by Clarke and Roberts, including the date of Santilli's film (stating it was June 1947, not July, thus not directly linked to the Roswell crash), and claims that Santilli attended only one BUFORA lecture. Mantle asserts that BUFORA was not 'duped' and that the film was presented at a conference to allow for public examination of the evidence. He explains that due to the lack of access to the original cameraman or film, the conference was the only viable option to bring the matter into the open. Mantle also defends his personal involvement, stating he was invited to join BUFORA and that his dislike for Jenny Randles would not have prevented him from considering her proposals if they had been made in time.

From the Files: Ken Phillips Digs Out of the BUFORA Archive

This section, though not fully detailed in the provided text, is mentioned in the table of contents and cover, suggesting an exploration of historical UFO cases from BUFORA's archives.

Investigations Diary

This regular feature provides updates on the latest UFO cases from around the UK and beyond, offering a snapshot of current sightings and investigations.

Roswell Footage UPDATE

Mike Wootten reports on the Roswell footage, suggesting that photographs published in Ming Pao News Weekly are actually tourist photos of an exhibit at the Roswell museum, rather than genuine evidence.

Creature FX: The Art of Fooling People

By Trey Stokes, a professional creature FX artist, this article deconstructs the 'alien autopsy' film, arguing that it is a staged production. Stokes details the process of creating a realistic-looking alien corpse using body casts, sculpting, and various materials like foam latex and silicone. He explains how such effects can mimic the appearance of internal organs and flesh, making it difficult for the untrained eye to distinguish from reality. Stokes concludes that while the film might not be the best creature effect ever produced, it is undoubtedly a special effect.

The Face on Mars is in the Target Database of the MCO

Dr. Helmut Lammer reports that NASA's Mars Global Surveyor Orbiter Camera (MOC) plans to observe the 'Face on Mars' and other features in Cydonia. While NASA aims to acquire these images for public relations due to public interest, Malin does not believe the surface features are artificial.

Death Threat Made to Abductee

This news item details a police investigation into a death threat made against former policeman Alan Godfrey in Todmorden Market, involving leaflets with his photograph and a death threat.

Revamp for Witness Magazine

'Rapport,' a magazine produced by close encounter witnesses, has been revamped into a 24-page A4 format and reduced in price. It aims to provide insight into the experiences of those who have had direct contact with UFO phenomena.

Other Sections and Features:

• Who's Fooling Who? (by Philip Mantle): Further discussion on the Santilli film and its implications.
• UFO Snapshots: Likely a section featuring reader-submitted UFO photographs.
• A Punters View of the Sheffield Conference: A personal account of attending a UFO conference.
• UFONet: Information about the UFONet online service, providing access to UFO conferences, news releases, and databases.
• Readers Write: A section for reader correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO evidence, the role of ufological organizations like BUFORA, and the importance of transparency and scientific rigor in investigating the UFO phenomenon. The editorial stance, as articulated by Mike Wootten, strongly advocates for Freedom of Information and a more open approach from government bodies. There is a clear skepticism towards sensationalized claims, particularly regarding the Santilli film, and a preference for evidence-based research and analysis, as demonstrated by the article on creature effects and the discussion on the 'Face on Mars'. The magazine aims to inform its readers about current UFO news, investigations, and debates within the community, while also promoting a more professional and scientific approach to the subject.

This issue of UFO Times, identified as issue number 11, focuses heavily on the controversial Roswell autopsy film and related investigations. It features a cover story questioning the narrative surrounding Ray Santilli's acquisition of the footage and the alleged cameraman, Jack Barnett. The magazine also includes a substantial section dedicated to "UFO Snapshots," presenting detailed accounts of various UFO sightings and encounters reported by witnesses across the UK and beyond.

The Roswell Autopsy Film Controversy

The lead article, "The Roswell Footage News Update," revisits the persistent questions surrounding the alleged Roswell autopsy film. It highlights a new development from a French TV channel, TF1, which presented a Roswell Special. This program reportedly uncovered information that contradicts Ray Santilli's established story about meeting and examining credentials of the cameraman, Jack Barnett. The French investigation suggests that Jack Barnett, the alleged cameraman, died in 1957 and his life details do not match Santilli's claims. The article questions whether there are two 'Jack Barnetts' or if Santilli's account has changed. It also touches upon the involvement of 'German collector' Volker Spielberg and the name association with Steven Spielberg.

UFO Snapshots: Witness Reports

This section, compiled by various investigators, details numerous UFO sightings. Each report includes the date, location, investigator(s), and a description of the observed phenomena.

• The Clacton Repeater (February 27, 1981): A witness describes an encounter with a being with turquoise eyes who appeared to float and draw energy from a copper cylinder. The witness also noted footprints and a burn mark on a fence.
• West Yorkshire (July 15, 1995): A family observed a solid black saucer-shaped object with rotating lights, accompanied by sensations of silence and slow motion.
• A38 between Derby/Birmingham (September 11, 1995): A cabin attendant reported a triangular-shaped object with green lights and a red pulsating light, moving slower than a military jet.
• Ashby De La Zouch, Leics. (August 9, 1995): A witness saw an unusual light resembling two cones joined together, which did not appear to be aircraft navigation lights.
• Elgin, Moray Scotland (September 17, 1995): Witnesses observed a red/white pulsing movement and white flashing lights in the sky, which could not be identified as aircraft.
• Alston, Cumbria (June 17/18, 1995): Multiple witnesses saw dozens of small balls of light moving erratically, followed by a large light that spread across a field.
• Unknown Location (Date unspecified): A witness described a pulsating light composed of several small circles appearing on the ground.
• Unknown Location (Date unspecified): A witness reported a UFO shaped like a smooth jet nose-cone, cap-shaped with no wings, engines, or portholes.
• Unknown Location (Date unspecified): A witness described a huge, orange, fluorescent UFO moving slowly and positioning itself centrally above their head.
• Unknown Location (Date unspecified): A witness saw a green, red, and white, round, flashing object moving in a zig-zag pattern.

Other Articles and Features

• "A Punters View of the Sheffield Conference 1995" by Alan Raven: This article provides a personal account of attending a UFO conference, including the screening of the Santilli film, and humorous observations about the attendees and events.
• "Internet Debate": This section promotes the availability of internet information and debates on disk, including topics like Roswell, X-Files, and Pagan discussion.
• Book Reviews:
• "Fingerprints of the Gods" by Graham Hancock: Praised for its scholarly approach to catastrophism and ancient cultures, and its insights into ancient structures and astronomical alignments.
• "The Gods of Eden" by William Bramley: Reviewed as a book that delves into conspiracy theory, the 'Secret World Order,' and spiritual science, suggesting a parasitic intelligence controlling mankind.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent questions surrounding the authenticity of UFO evidence, particularly the Roswell footage, and the detailed documentation of numerous unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, encouraging readers to critically examine claims and providing a platform for diverse witness accounts. There is a clear emphasis on the need for rigorous investigation and a skepticism towards unsubstantiated narratives, while also acknowledging the possibility of genuine anomalous events. The magazine seems to position itself as a source for detailed case studies and ongoing debates within the ufological community.

Title: UFO Times
Issue: 21
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd
Country: UK
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of UFO Times delves into several controversial topics within the ufology community, including the authenticity of alien autopsy footage, personal disputes among researchers, and theoretical concepts like the 'Embargo Hypothesis'. The magazine also features reader letters, event listings, and news bites.

'Another Autopsy 'Hoax' Enters'

The lead article discusses a new eight-minute film sequence depicting an alien autopsy, which is presented as a potential hoax. The film is described as similar to the SUE (Santilli Unidentified Entity) footage but with slight variations. The film's supporter claimed it belonged to a deceased cameraman, and his daughter found it. However, delegates at a Düsseldorf conference, including Michael Hesseman, were skeptical. Bob Shell identified the film as East German in origin, and Philip Mantle declared it a 'bloody hoax!'. It was later revealed that the footage was a spoof created by a German TV company in an afternoon, raising questions about the ease with which such material can be produced.

ELITISM (Poem)

This section contains a poem titled 'ELITISM' which expresses a sense of disillusionment and betrayal. The narrator feels abandoned by a group referred to as 'Elite', who are accused of stirring up the nation and then disappearing. The poem touches upon themes of being deceived, manipulated by electronic pulses and microwaves, and a feeling of foolishness. It mentions characters like Ken Phillips, Elsie, James, and Clive, and references 'Greys' and 'pulsed microwaves' affecting temporal lobes. The poem concludes with a sense of determination and a desire to expose the truth.

Letter from George Spurgeon

George Spurgeon writes a letter expressing his frustration and confusion regarding his 'kid' being an 'electron' and the use of microwave pulses and electronic globes. He feels manipulated and deceived. He mentions Clive Potter and the Council, questioning if Clive has been abducted. He concludes by stating he will send a 'bloody electron in a letter' to 'Elite'.

Readers Write

'I'll Hough and I'll Puff and I'll Blow Beckjord's House Down' by Anthony Eccles

Anthony Eccles writes to the editor, Peter Phillips, criticizing what he perceives as 'bitchy letters' and 'negative criticism' in the 'Readers Write' section, specifically mentioning Erik Beckjord's slurs against Peter Hough. Eccles argues that UFO Times should focus on ideas, events, and investigations, not internal slagging. He expresses indifference to Erik Beckjord's research and criticizes the use of a US Navy optical physicist, Dr. Maccabee, as support, calling it an 'instrument of disinformation'. He also suggests that articles like 'The Final Secret of Free Energy' were a waste of space due to lack of clarity and length.

Editor's Comment (Ed.): The editor, Ken Phillips (KP), comments on the influence of unknown powers and intellects that can cause conflict among individuals, linking it to the 'Embargo Hypothesis' or 'Tower of Babel Effect'. Regarding the 'Free Energy' article, he explains it was submitted by close-encounter witness Mary Seal, who has since disappeared, and the real issue is not the physics but how utility cartels would suppress it.

Hough Denounces Erik Beckjord as an Absolute Rotter by Erik Beckjord

This section presents Erik Beckjord's response to a previous article titled 'HOUGH IN A HUFF OVER THE ILKLEY MOOR PHOTO'. Beckjord criticizes the title as tabloid-like and questions why he is being demeaned. He expresses surprise that the magazine published a one-sided defamatory letter without contacting him first. Beckjord labels himself as the 'scourge of serious ufology' and claims Bob Rickard and Paul Fuller have received legal threats from him. He asserts ownership of the copyright of the 'Ilkley Moor Entity' picture, stating the photographer signed it over to him. He accuses Beckjord of demanding a copy of the agreement to reveal the witness's identity, which he refuses. Beckjord also claims that the Press Association published the picture alongside an inaccurate abduction story after Beckjord provided them with a copy, and that he proved his copyright ownership, leading to a payment and Beckjord's address being given to the PA. Beckjord alleges that Erik Beckjord has doctored the picture to create a 'fantasy' and that he has negotiated fees for commercial use of the picture, while allowing free use in non-profit journals. He urges the editor not to allow Beckjord to manipulate them and to check facts before publishing defamatory material.

Editor's Comment (Ed.): Ken Phillips (KP) expresses puzzlement over the lack of information about Beckjord and the witness, despite the case being around for years. He notes that before receiving Beckjord's letter, he had never heard of him. He concludes that with so much indeterminate 'information', the only safe conclusion is that they are dealing with the 'demonic'.

The 'New Physics' Article: Bill Dillon Replies

Bill Dillon responds to an article, noting that his use of the Harley Rutledge Case example in his 'New Physics' article for UT was viciously attacked by Campbell.

The Embargo Hypothesis

Bill Dillon explains the 'Embargo Hypothesis', which assumes that consciousness is purposely manufactured by an agency for its own survival. He states that this is the basic assumption, and according to Paul Davis, proposals with fewer assumptions are usually closer to the truth. He concludes by saying he is trying his best.

Editor's Comment (Ed.): Ken Phillips (KP) reiterates that he encounters the 'UFO Embargo' constantly in his dealings with witnesses, and it is the main vehicle through which consciousness is developed. He suggests that ufologists 'see' the UFO situation through the eyes of witnesses, and that vast, cold intellects may be working through them to invite willing individuals to break free of 'the human condition'.

Margaret Fry Gives Her Overview of the 'State-of-the-Art'

Margaret Fry expresses concern about Elsie Oakensen's writings and her receipt of information from Philip Mantle. Fry states she is resigning from BUFORA due to incompatibility with committee members and the inability to establish a Welsh Federation and manage BUFORA and CONTACT work. She recounts being told she was 'easily replaceable' despite 30 years of membership. Fry disagrees with the idea that ufologists should not write about abductees' experiences, arguing that such experiences concern the whole human race. She believes that while consulting the abductee is important, the subject matter itself is not solely theirs to control. She advocates for writing about these experiences in books and magazines, without exploiting the individuals by revealing their names or addresses, but by noting the locality of events for research purposes. She feels that more people should come forward with their experiences to strengthen the movement.

Fry also comments on the 'malicious back-biting' in UFO Times, understanding why the editor might give up due to the hard work involved. She mentions agreeing with Jenny Randles to tutor for BUFORA due to a lack of experienced investigators.

Editor's Comment (Ed.): Ken Phillips (KP) has no objection to authors writing about abductees as long as they adhere to BUFORA's Code of Practice and the truth is not compromised. However, he expresses an uncomfortable feeling that ufology might become another way of making money for international banks, which would be a disaster for the UFO fraternity, as truth ultimately suffers when money becomes the sole driving force.

New UFO Group in Leicestershire

The Charnwood UFO Research Group (CUFORG) has been launched by young enthusiasts in Leicestershire. They are seeking members and are producing an informative newsletter focusing on the East Midlands area. Information on how to contact Matt Merritt and subscribe to CUFORG's Newsletter is provided.

NewsBites

Shadow of Death Hangs Over the WSG

This news item reports on the death of Malcolm Spector, a WSG member, who died by suicide at his home in Bournemouth. His brother informed WSG assistant Ken Phillips that Malcolm had been in correspondence with another WSG member, Mary Seal. The correspondence became acrimonious, possibly due to Mary's claim that Malcolm was recruiting personnel for mind control programs in US universities and had fallen foul of authorities. Malcolm's personal life became intolerable, leading him to slash himself with a knife. In his bloodied state, he crawled up the stairwell of his building and jumped off the top. During the investigation, attempts to clarify Spector's situation through written questions to the US Judiciary, the US Embassy, and his GP were met with extreme reticence. The article expresses hope that Malcolm's brother will release the correspondence to shed further light on this disturbing case.

Diary

This section lists upcoming BUFORA lectures and other UFO-related events:

• BUFORA London Lectures:
• January 6, 1996: 'The Comic Message and Other Topics' at the University of Westminster.
• February 3: 'Area 51' at the University of Westminster.
• BUFORA Newcastle Lecture:
• January 27: TBA at the Sutherland Building, University of Northumbria.
• BUFORA Liverpool Lecture:
• Date not specified: At the Haigh Conference Centre.
• Other Events:
• November 18: 'One Day UFO Conference' at Bournemouth University, featuring speakers like Lionel Beer, David Kingston, Peter Hough, Lynn Picknett, and Clive Prince.
• November 23-30: 'At the Edge of Science' lecture series at Willesden Green Library, London, including Chandra Wickramasinghe and Jenny Randles.

Contact details are provided for each event.

UFO Newsfile

This is an advertisement for 'UFO Newsfile', described as 'The Premier British UFO Newsclipping Magazine', published bi-monthly. Subscription details and prices are given, along with information on how to send cheques, postal orders, or international money orders payable to BUFORA Ltd.

UFOCALL

An advertisement for 'UFOCALL', a phone service for 'the latest in Ufology', with a phone number and call costs provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include skepticism towards sensational UFO claims, particularly regarding hoaxes and fabricated evidence like the 'autopsy' footage. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of rigorous research and the dangers of misinformation within the ufology community. Personal disputes and criticisms among researchers are highlighted, suggesting internal conflicts and differing methodologies. The 'Embargo Hypothesis' is presented as a theoretical framework for understanding how consciousness might be influenced or controlled. The issue also touches upon the ethical considerations of reporting on abductee experiences and the potential for ufology to be exploited for financial gain. The editorial stance, as indicated by the editor's comments, leans towards caution, critical analysis, and a concern for the integrity of UFO research, while acknowledging the complexity and often subjective nature of the subject matter.