BUFORA Bulletin2 - No.11 - Jun Jul 1999

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue Date: June/July 1999
Publisher: British UFO Research Association (BUFORA)
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated June/July 1999, is the 11th issue and focuses on UFO activity, prophecies, and detailed case investigations. The cover poses two intriguing questions: "Is this pub at the centre of UFO activity?" and "Will the World end before the next issue of the Bulletin?", hinting at the content within.

Officers and Council Members

Page 2 provides a directory of BUFORA's officers and council members for 1999-2000. It lists the Chairman, Stephen Gamble, and other council members. Key personnel in Research & Investigation include Gloria Dixon (Director of Investigations) and John Spencer (Director of Research). Dave Pointon manages the Postal Training Course. The publication details the central office address, phone number, and website for BUFORA.

Editorial

Steve Gamble, in his editorial, reflects on the relaunch of the BUFORA Bulletin over a year prior, aiming for simple yet regular production. He mentions handing over editorship to Robert Moore in September 1998 and thanks Robert Moore and Arnold West for their efforts. Gamble notes his unexpected return to the editorial seat, causing a slight delay, and outlines his plans for the Bulletin's future direction. He also acknowledges feedback from members at the AGM and intends to incorporate their suggestions. The editorial also notes the unfortunate deaths of Vice-President Graham Knewstub and former treasurer Wilf Grunau, with obituaries planned for future issues.

Contents

The table of contents on page 3 lists the articles featured in this issue:

• Editorial (Page 3)
• UFOs & Light Phenomena by Steve Gamble (Page 4)
• The Harston Affair by Norman Oliver (Page 5)
• July 1999 - Alien Invasion? Or just another empty Prophecy? by Nabil Shaban (Page 8)
• Broadcaster Hughie Green & UFOs by Nabil Shaban & Steve Gamble (Page 11)
• Countryfile by Brian James (Page 14)
• Readers Write (Page 16)
• Teeside UFO by Gloria Dixon (Page 19)
• Skywatching (Page 24)
• Lectures (Page 28)

A personal advertisement from Mr. Mike Hudson seeking to purchase old UFO books and magazines is also included.

UFOs & Light Phenomena

Steve Gamble's article discusses the prevalence of 'strange lights' in UFO reports, estimating that about 60% of all incoming reports refer to such phenomena. He categorizes unexplained UFO reports into two main types: those involving Close Encounter Experiencers, Abductees, and Contactees (which receive significant media attention), and unexplained strange light phenomena, which he believes are physical and amenable to scientific investigation. Gamble mentions the BOLIDE project, initiated by Hilary Evans and later taken over by Robert Moore, which collected information on 'Ball Of Light' (BOL) UFOs. The article highlights specific locations known for repeated light phenomena sightings, including areas in the East Midlands of England, Little and Great Houghton in Northamptonshire (investigated with NUFORC), and Harston in South Cambridgeshire (investigated with CUFOG). An ongoing study aims to publish fresh results in the Bulletin, and a small website has been created to share gathered data.

The Harston Affair

Norman Oliver details the Harston Affair, a series of incidents primarily centered around the Old English Gentleman Inn at Harston, Cambridgeshire, and its landlord, Michael Bradford. The investigation began with a seemingly anomalous report of a two-coach train seen in Norfolk in 1966, which lacked a railway or bridge. Coincidentally, a similar sighting was reported, leading Oliver to investigate the Harston area. Four main incidents are described:

• Incident A (December 1978): Mr. Bradford reported seeing a bright 'star' descend behind trees, later observing two pulsating orange lights in a field. These were followed by numerous white balls of light that disappeared between the orange lights. The orange lights were later described as a 'mouth organ' shape.
• Incident B (October 1, 1979): Mr. and Mrs. Bradford reported seeing a two-coach train-like object crossing the road near Barley, moving silently at about 30 mph, with no visible railway or bridge.
• Incident C (November 29, 1979): Several people outside the pub observed a silent, slow-moving craft with a 'boomerang shape' and illuminated edges, moving from south to north over Cambridge.
• Incident D (November 29, 1979): Shortly after Incident C, a Foxton resident called Mr. Bradford to report another object heading their way, described as a 'railway carriage' or 'double-decker bus' with illuminated windows.

Investigations with Cambridge police and USAF confirmed no local flights that could account for the sightings. The article also mentions a review in the Cambridge Evening News in March 1998 that brought forward new witnesses, though their reports did not match the original ones. John Ryder of CUFOG suggests that mirages caused by trapped air pockets might be a factor in the Harston area.

July 1999 - Alien Invasion? Or a Giant Meteor? Or just another empty Prophecy?

Nabil Shaban explores the significance of July 1999 in relation to prophecies and UFO activity. He discusses Nostradamus's prediction of a 'Great King of Terror' coming from the skies in July 1999, which could be interpreted as a UFO invasion or a 'Grey' alien. He contrasts this with the Fatima Prophecies, which predict a meteor strike between June 30 and the first week of July 1999. Shaban questions whether these prophecies refer to a UFO invasion, a meteor misinterpreted, or an alien spacecraft mistaken for a meteor, referencing the movie "Independence Day" as an example of how UFOs and meteors can be confused.

The article delves into the ancient veneration of Sirius, the star associated with July, its connection to healing, resurrection, and enlightenment, and its purported role as a home for alien teachers. The 5-pointed star symbol of Sirius is linked to occult knowledge and revolution. Shaban wonders if July 1999 will be a time of cataclysmic change due to extraterrestrial contact or a meteor catastrophe, noting that Sirius is often linked to the origins of visiting aliens in UFO folklore and that the alleged Roswell Crash occurred in July.

UFO Monthly Patterns

Shaban's research into UFO statistics reveals that July consistently shows an above-average number of UFO reports, based on data from the National UFO Reporting Center (NUFORC), CIA 'flying saucer' statistics, and his own survey of pilots' stories. The NUFORC data (1965-1998) indicates July as the second highest month for reports, after November. CIA data from 1947 and 1964 also shows July with a high number of reports. The article speculates on reasons for this July peak, considering midsummer phenomena like firework displays, asteroid activity, or even seasonal variations in cosmic interference. However, Shaban's own pilot survey shows a more even spread of sightings throughout the year, suggesting pilots might be more reliable observers.

Broadcaster Hughie Green & UFOs

(This section is mentioned in the contents but not fully transcribed in the provided pages. It likely discusses UFO-related interests or experiences of the broadcaster Hughie Green, with contributions from Nabil Shaban and Steve Gamble.)

Countryfile

(This section is mentioned in the contents but not fully transcribed. It is likely an article by Brian James, possibly relating UFOs to rural or natural settings.)

Readers Write

(This section is mentioned in the contents but not fully transcribed. It would contain letters from readers to the editor.)

Teeside UFO

Gloria Dixon's article on Teeside UFO is mentioned in the contents but not fully transcribed.

Skywatching and Lectures

These sections are listed in the contents but not transcribed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the detailed investigation of specific UFO cases (The Harston Affair), the analysis of statistical patterns in UFO sightings (July's prominence), and the exploration of potential connections between UFO phenomena and prophecies or ancient beliefs (Nostradamus, Fatima, Sirius). The editorial stance, as indicated by Steve Gamble, is to provide a regular, accessible publication that incorporates member feedback and explores various facets of UFO research, including scientific investigation of physical phenomena like 'Balls of Light' and the broader implications of UFO sightings.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin features several articles investigating UFO phenomena and related media coverage. The primary focus is on the alleged UFO crashes, particularly the Roswell Incident, and the role of broadcaster Hughie Green in reporting on such events. The publication also critically examines media portrayals of crop circles, contrasting them with the ongoing enigma of unexplained formations.

Broadcaster Hughie Green & Alleged UFO Crashes

This section, authored by Nabil Shaban with notes by Steve Gamble, details a research project initiated by BUFORA to investigate physical evidence of UFO phenomena, specifically crash retrieval reports. The Roswell Incident of July 1947 is highlighted as the most famous example. The article discusses a report from broadcaster Hughie Green, who claimed to have heard radio broadcasts in 1947 about the US Army recovering material from a crashed flying saucer while traveling across the United States. Berlitz and Moore, in their book 'The Roswell Incident,' suggest this report was related to the Roswell Incident. However, further investigation by Nabil Shaban, based on correspondence with Hughie Green, suggests that Green's report might pertain to an incident near Tucamcari, New Mexico, and that Green was in Europe at the time of the Roswell Incident. This challenges the common association of Hughie Green with the Roswell Incident. The article also notes that Hughie Green passed away in May 1997, making his correspondence with Nabil Shaban a potentially definitive source on his alleged involvement.

The Investigation – Nabil Shaban

Nabil Shaban recounts his personal investigation into Hughie Green's claims. As a member of BUFORA's research committee, he was tasked with tracking down the TV personality, known for shows like 'Double Your Money' and 'Opportunity Knocks,' who was rumored to have knowledge of a 1940s "saucer crash" in New Mexico. Shaban's investigation involved correspondence with Green. He notes a discrepancy between a 1955 Flying Saucer Review interview where Green mentioned a June 1947 New Mexico crash, and a later mention of a "1957 crash." Shaban attempted to clarify this with Green, who responded briefly, seemingly eager to end the discussion. Shaban also mentions an attempt to arrange a face-to-face meeting, which was prevented by Green's death. The article also touches upon a separate investigation into a "1957 crash" mentioned by Green, which predated the Flying Saucer Review interview.

The Country Files: Crop Circles

Authored by Brian P. James, this section critiques the BBC's 'Countryfile' program for its repeated focus on crop circles being the work of 'artistic' individuals, specifically Doug Bower and his associates. The author questions why the BBC uses license money to present the same story annually, suggesting it's not factual reporting but entertainment. The article details a 1999 'Countryfile' episode that featured Doug Bower and reporter Rupert Segar creating crop circles, similar to a 1997 program. It highlights Bower's claims about confounding researcher Terence Meaden's plasma vortex theory and his alleged influence from the 'Tully saucer nests.' The author expresses skepticism about Bower's extended claims, suggesting they muddy the waters. The piece describes the 'Countryfile' team's efforts to find Bower and their subsequent creation of a circle at Milk Hill. The author criticizes the BBC for omitting key features of the crop circle phenomenon, such as precise floor lays, blown nodes, and EM anomalies, focusing instead on the hoax aspect. The article concludes that despite the BBC's efforts, a real enigma at the heart of the crop circle phenomenon remains unsolved.

Readers Write

This section features correspondence from readers. One letter addresses an article about Elsie Oakensen's UFO incident near Daventry, criticizing 'experts' who offer theories such as 'mirages' or 'monosodium glutamate' as explanations. The writer argues that these theories do not fit all the evidence and that the simplest explanation is that people are seeing UFOs. The writer also expresses frustration with the way witnesses are treated and suggests that 'pseudo experts' are more effective at suppressing information than government cover-ups.

Another letter, from a 'CE. 4 witness,' continues the critique of simplistic explanations for UFO sightings, likening the process to building a house by demolishing it immediately. The writer emphasizes the need to understand witnesses' experiences before dismissing them and humorously identifies themselves as a 'big, butch, menopausal, strung out on monosodium glutamate, prone to mirages and EMF zapped ex-pilot in a tin hat.' The editor notes that two sentences were removed from this letter for being inappropriate.

TEESIDE UFO

Authored by Gloria Dixon, this article details a case investigated in 1994 involving Steve Robbins, a plant operator at Phillips Petroleum Plant on Teeside. In June 1981, Robbins reported seeing a large, cigar-shaped object, estimated to be 100 feet long and flying at an altitude of 100-120 feet. The object, described as dull bluish steel with a pulsating white/yellow light, passed overhead without sound. Despite a thorough search of the area, no physical evidence was found. Robbins' supervisor contacted Teesside Airport, which reported no aircraft activity. A security guard from the tank farm, 1.5 miles away, also reported seeing a similar object. The article also mentions a previous report from another employee about an object attempting to 'land' on the main road.

Following these events, Robbins experienced significant electrical problems in his home, including his television bursting into flames, and other appliances failing. These issues continued intermittently for several years, even when he worked offshore. Electrical engineers were puzzled by the problems, and a mains voltage recorder found nothing abnormal. Neighbors did not experience similar issues. Later, Robbins experienced inexplicable events in his bedroom, including a high-pitched hum and the sensation of being unable to move, while perceiving figures dressed in black. He felt a 'thought transference' communication, assuring him and his family would not be harmed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The BUFORA Bulletin consistently adopts a critical stance towards media portrayals of UFO phenomena, particularly when they focus on debunking or sensationalizing. The magazine champions rigorous investigation and the presentation of witness testimony, as seen in the detailed accounts of the Hughie Green and Steve Robbins cases. There is a clear skepticism towards simplistic explanations offered by 'experts' and a belief that genuine, unexplained phenomena persist. The publication also advocates for a balanced perspective, contrasting its own approach with what it perceives as entertainment-driven or agenda-laden reporting by mainstream media outlets like the BBC. The underlying theme is the pursuit of truth in UFOlogy, even when faced with skepticism and misrepresentation.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated May 1999, delves into the profound personal transformations that can occur following encounters with unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings. The cover story, "SKYWATCHING," introduces the concept of structured observation of the skies to investigate UFOs, while the main content focuses on a detailed case study of an individual named Steve.

The Case of Steve: Transformation After a UFO Sighting

The issue extensively details the experiences of 'Steve,' who, prior to a UFO sighting at the Philips Petroleum Plant in 1981, was a grounded, skeptical man focused on his family and work. Following this sighting, Steve underwent significant personal changes. He reported experiencing powerful, compelling "vision" type dreams, including precognitive dreams about major disasters like Chernobyl and Lockerbie, which occurred months before the actual events. These dreams were so vivid that they caused him considerable emotional distress.

Beyond dreams, Steve developed an intrusive ability to 'tune into' people upon first meeting them, which he found disturbing. The article suggests that Steve may have been receptive to unusual phenomena from a young age, noting that his maternal grandmother also experienced paranormal phenomena. The author explores various theories for Steve's experiences, including hallucinations, electromagnetic fields (particularly in the Teeside area), and sleep paralysis, though Steve himself finds the latter difficult to accept as a sole explanation.

Steve describes his life as having changed "much more subtly, a slow realisation process." He now lives his life "to the full," with less time for passive activities like watching TV or reading newspapers. His attitude towards people and confrontational situations has improved, leading him to help others and follow his intuition. Notably, he has lost his fear of death, which he states allows him to "appreciate life, as just a current phase of eternity."

Steve acknowledges the difficulty in explaining his experiences but states, "I keep my sanity by believing in myself...I believe in what happened, I will never be able to explain it, but at least I can now accept it." The author emphasizes that these changes in Steve are significant and align with changes observed in many individuals who undergo close encounter experiences, suggesting a link between close encounters and subsequent paranormal events that is not yet understood.

Related Incidents and Research

The bulletin also touches upon other reported phenomena. It mentions a case where a joint experience of a similar object was witnessed by someone 12 miles away, ruling out simple hallucinations caused by gas or oil. The area of Teeside is highlighted as a potential focus for investigation due to its chemical and power facilities, which could generate electromagnetic fields.

Further afield, the article references a report from the Teesmouth area involving observations of strange objects and a case in Redcar, Cleveland, where a couple experienced bizarre events, including an unknown object in their garden and entities. In this Redcar case, the wife claimed her husband physically disappeared, a case documented by Philip Mantle in his book 'Without Consent'.

The "Anamnesis project," initiated by the late Ken Phillips, is mentioned as a priority for investigating these inexplicable events, suggesting that such experiences may be prevalent in individuals with a history of paranormal events. The article stresses the importance of studying the people involved in these experiences, not just the incidents themselves.

Skywatching and BUFORA Activities

The issue promotes "Skywatching," an initiative by BUFORA to encourage structured observation of the skies for UFOs. It outlines the benefits of joining organized watches, the types of phenomena that might be observed, and the schedule for national skywatches in 1999 and 2000. Contact information for the skywatch coordinator, Philip Walton, is provided.

BUFORA Conference and Lectures

Details are provided for the 7th Annual Northampton UFO Conference on August 14th, 1999, with a theme reviewing 50 years of UFO research and featuring speakers like Elsie Oakensen, Gary H. and Kate Taylor. The conference cost is £5, with refreshments and publications available.

BUFORA also announces a series of lectures at the University of Westminster. These include a talk on "THE STARGATE CONSPIRACY" by Lynn Picknett and Clive Prince on September 4th, 1999, exploring cults and extraterrestrial channeling. Another lecture, "THE RISING OF THE MOON; the Devonshire UFO Triangle," by Jon Downes on October 2nd, 1999, will cover cases from East Devon, including animal mutilations, ghosts, and poltergeists.

Book Reviews and Shop

A section titled "Amazing Book Bargains" by Lionel Beer reviews several books related to UFOs and paranormal topics, offering them at reduced prices. Titles include "UFO ABDUCTIONS in Gulf Breeze," "The UFO ENCYCLOPEDIA," "WITNESSED" by Budd Hopkins, "DEMON DEATHS," "The SECRET PROPHECIES OF NOSTRADAMUS," "ARKTOS-The Polar Myth," "FACES of the VISITORS," "FORBIDDEN SCIENCE," "MIND MONSTERS," "MYSTERIES of the MERSEY VALLEY," "UFO RETRIEVALS," "ALIEN AGENDA," "FIRE IN THE SKY" (Travis Walton's abduction), "STONEHENGE DECODED," "STAR CHILDREN," and "TIME TRAVEL." The BUFORA Bookshop also lists research reports, conference proceedings, and back issues of their publications for sale.

Submissions and Editorial Stance

The "SUBMISSIONS TO THE BULLETIN" section outlines the guidelines for submitting articles to BUFORA BULLETIN, including electronic and postal submission methods. It clarifies that the views expressed in submitted contributions do not necessarily represent the views of BUFORA or its Editorial Board, except where specifically stated. BUFORA BULLETIN is copyrighted by BUFORA 1999. The policy of BUFORA is not to publish the names or addresses of witnesses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the profound psychological and spiritual impact of UFO sightings and paranormal experiences on individuals, the importance of rigorous research into these phenomena, and the promotion of public engagement through skywatching and conferences. The editorial stance, as conveyed through the articles and the submission policy, is one of open inquiry into unexplained events, with a focus on witness testimony and personal transformation, while maintaining a degree of caution regarding definitive explanations and respecting the privacy of individuals involved.