BUFORA Bulletin2 - No.19 - Jun 2000

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No. 19
Date: June 2000
Publisher: BUFORA Ltd.
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 1466-8017

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, the journal of the British UFO Research Association, presents a diverse range of articles and updates for its members. The cover highlights key features including 'A Strange Encounter in Farthing Woods,' 'UFOs, Behind the Veil,' an 'Investigations Diary,' a tribute to 'Peter Wain Remembered,' and a report on 'The Ozark UFO Conference.'

Editorial

Brian P. James, taking over the editorial role temporarily, expresses gratitude to former chairman Steve Gamble and treasurer Bob Digby for their long service. He notes that the Bulletin's content and style will largely remain the same but encourages reader feedback. The issue sees the re-introduction of the 'Investigations Diary' to keep members informed about ongoing reports and investigations. A new editorial board is being assembled, and the association is considering reducing the number of Bulletins to six per year to ease pressure on the production team, while planning to re-introduce a Research Bulletin. James reflects on the changes within BUFORA's council, including the loss of Arnold West and the retirement of Steve and Bob, welcoming new faces with fresh ideas to steer the association into the new millennium.

He shares his personal interest in UFOs dating back 27 years, noting the evolution of the field from a focus on extraterrestrial origins to a broader spectrum of phenomena, including high strangeness cases like abductions and nighttime visitations, which often do not involve sightings of traditional 'UFOs.' He suggests that the study of UFOs increasingly overlaps with paranormal and psychic phenomena, and that BUFORA may need to broaden its scope to encompass these areas or collaborate with other groups.

James also discusses the impact of the internet, which has made information more widely available, changing BUFORA's role from a primary source of information to a research group that needs to balance membership requirements with a global audience. He looks forward to a Strategy & Planning Conference to gather feedback on potential changes.

Peter Wain Remembered

This article by Lionel Beer pays tribute to Peter Wain, a dedicated BUFORA colleague who passed away on April 5th, 2000, at the age of 85. Wain was a member of BUFORA from at least 1962 and served on the Executive Committee as Librarian and Archives Officer. He was involved in the development of a data-card system for the association and was a donor of publicity boards. He resigned from the Executive in 1967 but rejoined in 1971, serving until BUFORA became a company limited by guarantee in 1975. Wain was also a speaker on UFO topics and a pilot, having been President of the Alouette Flying Club. The article mentions his interest in fast vehicles, including two Sinclair C5s, and notes he had recently undergone cataract surgery. A brief mention is made of his Christian faith and his mooting the possibility that some UFO events might have Satanic or evil implications, referencing an experience while driving with his wife Kay.

Investigation's Diary

Gloria Heather Dixon, Director of Investigations (DOI) for BUFORA, writes the 'Investigations Diary,' marking her first contribution to the Bulletin in two years. She notes the shift from 'UFO TIMES' to the 'BUFORA Bulletin' for reporting. The National Investigations Committee (NIC) now comprises twenty-one investigators (thirteen accredited, eight provisional). Dave Pointon has stepped down as National Co-ordinator of the Postal Training Course (PTC) due to commitments but remains Deputy Director of Investigations. Dixon and Judy Jaafar are temporarily administering the PTC. Dixon emphasizes the need to look beyond the 'UFO' label to understand why the subject captivates people, suggesting that many anomalies are now lumped into the UFO category, including remote viewing, ghosts, and near-death experiences, leading to confusion.

She clarifies that 'UFO' means 'unidentified flying object,' and its investigation depends heavily on the beliefs of the investigators. Dixon states that while 95% of reports are explained, it's rare to definitively explain such a high percentage due to issues like delayed reporting, witness memory accuracy, and unhelpful responses from agencies like the Ministry of Defence. She highlights 'Lights in the Sky' (LITS) as a common report, often misinterpreted as structured objects. She provides examples of misidentifications, including laser light displays and a case in Middlesbrough where a light show was mistaken for UFOs.

Dixon also discusses the challenges of technological, astronomical, and atmospheric traffic being misidentified. She points out that the term 'UFO' itself has become problematic, often synonymous with alien spacecraft and leading to misinterpretation. She presents statistics for 1999, showing 217 reports logged by BUFORA, a 25% decrease from 1998's 293 reports. While many were explained, a residual number remain unknown. Of the 1999 reports, 28 (about 12.5%) were defined as high strangeness or close encounters, indicating a steady increase in such cases compared to 10% in 1997/1998.

She identifies aircraft (civilian and military, including secret prototypes) and astronomical phenomena (stars, planets, meteors) as the most common culprits for misidentifications. Other common misidentifications include laser light displays, airships, satellites, balloons, and reflections from ground lights. Rarer misidentifications include the moon, unusual atmospheric phenomena like ball lightning, and earthlights. The diary also touches upon close-range sightings, alien abduction experiences, and the debate on whether these fall into the paranormal or UFO categories. The article questions the role of media sensationalism and investigators in shaping witness perceptions.

Dixon further discusses the use of hypnosis in investigations, noting the significant problems associated with it, including the creation of false memories and increased witness vulnerability to suggestion. BUFORA's NIC has maintained a moratorium on its use since 1988, pioneered by Jenny Randles. She cites research by Dr. Elizabeth Loftus on the fallibility of memory and the increase in abduction stories, suggesting that hypnotically induced testimony is often inadmissible in court. The article emphasizes that memory is a reconstructive process, not a video recording, and that external influences can alter retrieved memories. This understanding is crucial for interpreting close encounter experiences.

Finally, Dixon states that BUFORA and other organizations have seen an escalation of reports of inexplicable sightings and human experiences, often interpreted as alien contact due to powerful imagery and cultural models. She plans to continue documenting sightings in future issues. This issue includes details of a case investigated by Mick Broad in Doncaster on September 10th, 1999, involving a report of five moving lights.

The Ozark UFO Conference

This section, authored by Norman Oliver, likely details events and findings from the Ozark UFO Conference.

FT's Explained?

This article appears to explore explanations for phenomena related to 'FTs,' which could refer to various subjects within the UFO or paranormal field.

Review: Montague Keen's London Lecture

This review covers a lecture given by Montague Keen in London, likely focusing on UFO or related topics.

Space & Astronomy

Authored by Brian P. James, this piece likely connects astronomical observations or concepts to UFO phenomena or the broader study of the cosmos.

UFOs, Behind the Veil (Part 1)

This is the first part of a two-part series by Brian Allan, which aims to examine UFO phenomena from a different perspective, perhaps delving into less commonly discussed aspects or theories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of BUFORA Bulletin demonstrates a commitment to rigorous investigation and a critical approach to UFO phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between genuine unexplained events and misidentifications, with a significant portion of the content dedicated to analyzing common errors and challenges in UFO research. The association acknowledges the evolving nature of the field, particularly the influence of the internet and the blurring lines between UFOs and other anomalous or paranormal experiences. BUFORA appears to be grappling with how to adapt its research methods and scope to address these complexities, while maintaining a focus on evidence-based inquiry. The editorial stance encourages open-mindedness but also a grounded, scientific approach, as evidenced by the moratorium on hypnosis and the detailed breakdown of misidentification categories. The inclusion of statistics and detailed case analysis underscores a dedication to understanding the 'why' behind these phenomena, rather than simply cataloging sightings.

BUFORA Bulletin #19, dated October 1999, is a publication focused on UFO phenomena, alleged alien encounters, and related research. This issue covers a range of reports, conference summaries, and investigative reviews.

Case Reports and Sightings

Vietnam, 1970: The Lone-Jon Island Incident

The bulletin details a case from Lone-Jon Island, Vietnam, in 1970, reported by a witness identified as 'JB'. During a five-day operation, JB's five-man team encountered circles of four-inch bright lights with 'black eyes' that zigzagged and hovered. When the team returned fire, the lights turned glowing red, with the 'black eye' part glowing bright green. The incidents occurred both day and night. Upon reporting to their company headquarters, they were told to forget the incident, but were later debriefed by CIA personnel. JB believed two men who questioned him were with the CIA.

Scotland, 1999: The Livingston Encounter

Investigator George Niedzwiedz reports on an incident from Livingston, Scotland, on October 12, 1999. A witness, Mr. L., encountered a luminous yellow figure, possibly seven feet tall, in a field at night. The figure had luminous yellow coloration on its head, hands, and feet. Mr. L.'s dogs reacted fearfully, and one ran away. The witness felt frightened and retreated. Mr. L. was aware of the Robert Taylor incident from 1979 but not in detail.

UK Sightings: Hedgerley, Manningtree, and Surrey

Several UK-based sightings are documented:

• Hedgerley, Buckinghamshire (1974/1975): A witness, CM, recalls his mother and twin brother seeing a silver saucer-shaped object hovering over their home, estimated to be twelve feet across and forty feet high, with two silver figures on top.
• Manningtree, Essex (October 13, 1999): SR and his son observed a large, cigar-shaped object, estimated to be three-quarters the size of a football pitch, moving at low altitude (about fifty feet above the ground).
• Surrey (April 14, 1995): Ken reported a loud turbine-like drone and a high-pitched whine, followed by a brilliant ball of light hovering above the ground. The light transformed into a silent, aluminum saucer-shaped object, estimated to be 18-20 feet wide and 10 feet deep, moving at an unbelievable speed towards Croydon.

Groom Lake, Area 51

The magazine 'Aircraft Illustrated' featured an article on a delta-planform aircraft seen flying out of Groom Lake. The aircraft was described as large (30m length), dense black, with no visible cockpit or engine intakes, and two large rectangular exhaust nozzles. Aviation enthusiasts observed it in broad daylight. The article questions whether this aircraft fits the description of 'FTs' (Fast Transients) reported over the years, noting that the reported aircraft does not exhibit characteristics like silent hovering or vertical flight.

Conferences and Investigations

The Ozark UFO Conference

Norman Oliver reports on the 12th annual Ozark UFO Conference held in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The conference, directed by Lucius Parish, is noted for its friendly atmosphere and continuity of speakers. Notable speakers included Antonio Huneeus (UFO reports from Chile and China), Linda Moulton-Howe (cattle mutilations, crop circles), Joe Lewels (recent UFO events in Mexico), Wendelle Stevens (UFO photos), and Jim Marrs (Remote Viewing). Oliver himself presented on Zecharia Sitchin's 'Twelfth Planet' theory. The conference also included discussions on ancient Sumerian civilization and the possibility of extraterrestrial influence.

Scole Experiments Lecture Review

A lecture by Montague Keen on the Scole Experiments in Norfolk is reviewed. The experiments involved a group of mediums who allegedly produced physical phenomena, including 'spirit lights' described as pea-sized, blue-white lights that could pass through solid matter and interact with participants. The review notes the use of controlled conditions, such as illuminated wrist-straps in darkness, and a sealed box experiment with a film that developed symbols and foreign writings. Other phenomena mentioned include phantom dogs. The review suggests contacting the SPR for a detailed report.

Zecharia Sitchin's Theories

Norman Oliver discusses Zecharia Sitchin's theories, particularly his concept of the 'Twelfth Planet' (Nibiru/Marduk). Sitchin postulates that our solar system originally had Mercury, Venus, and a planet called Tiamat, with Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. Nibiru, a planet with an extreme elliptical orbit, encountered Tiamat, resulting in the formation of the asteroid belt and Earth. Sitchin also suggests that intelligent life on Marduk genetically manipulated prehistoric humans to mine gold, leading to the creation of Homo Sapiens. The theory also addresses the Nefelim, their potential interaction with humanity, and the concept of a great flood.

Other Topics

Crop Circles

The bulletin speculates on the future of crop circle formations, anticipating developments in 3D and potentially 4D representations. It questions whether 'real Circlemakers' can manipulate energies to create formations, suggesting a challenge to flatten entire fields while leaving a standing formation as proof of genuine phenomena.

Abduction Claims and Manipulation

The article touches upon the possibility that the 'Greys' might be a life-form designed by the Nefelim to perform tasks, including abductions and cattle mutilations. It also raises questions about whether humanity's rapid technological expansion could be a result of ongoing manipulation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bulletin consistently explores anomalous aerial phenomena, alleged extraterrestrial contact, and the scientific and historical implications of these events. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, presenting various reports and theories for consideration while acknowledging the need for corroboration and critical analysis. There is a clear interest in ancient astronaut theories, particularly those of Zecharia Sitchin, and a focus on detailed case studies of sightings and experiments. The publication encourages reader participation and information sharing to further investigate these phenomena.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, identified as number 19 and dated around 2000, delves into a variety of anomalous phenomena, with a particular focus on UFOs and related subjects. The cover story, "UFOs, Behind the Veil A Re-examination (part 1)" by Brian Allan, introduces a historical perspective on UFO sightings and the challenges of obtaining objectivity in reporting.

Key Articles and Features

Aurora Display and Space Weather

The bulletin features a detailed account of an exceptional aurora display on the night of April 6th, 2000, observed across the UK. The author describes the visual spectacle, noting its intensity and duration. The article also touches upon the link between solar activity, space weather, and the potential for auroras, suggesting that recent coronal mass ejections might lead to further opportunities to witness such events. The potential connection between the solar sunspot cycle, space weather, and UFO sightings is explored, referencing earlier studies that found a statistical link.

Meteor Events and Aerial Fireworks

Another section discusses 'aerial fireworks,' including a significant meteor event in January 2000 where a large rock from space streaked across the skies of western Canada, exploding over the Yukon Territory. Scientists recovered fragments, which were found to possibly contain amino acids and organic compounds. The article also highlights that many meteor showers occur during daylight hours and are therefore invisible, suggesting listening to meteor echoes on radio as a way to detect them.

UFOs and Historical Interpretations

A significant portion of the bulletin is dedicated to re-examining historical accounts and their potential connection to UFO phenomena. This includes:

• Ancient Carvings: Depictions from Hunan province, China, dated circa 47,000 BC, featuring cylindrical objects and figures in helmets and suits, are presented as possible evidence of extraterrestrial craft.
• Ancient Egyptian Sightings: An account from the reign of Pharaoh Thutmose III (1504-1450 BC) describes a 'circle of fire' in the sky, with specific characteristics and a foul odor.
• Biblical Accounts: The prophet Ezekiel's vision of a 'strange vehicle' and 'living creatures' near the Chebar River (592 BC) is analyzed, with interpretations suggesting advanced technology or environmental suits. The bulletin also references the Book of Enoch and the concept of 'Nephilim' and 'Watchers,' linking them to fallen angels and potential extraterrestrial origins.
• 'Ancient Astronauts' Theory: The work of Erich von Daniken is mentioned in the context of re-interpreting ancient history and archaeological anomalies, suggesting that some artifacts, like the Mayan 'Astronaut,' might be evidence of extraterrestrial influence.
• Colombian Artifacts: Items from ancient Colombian tombs, previously described as ceremonial, are suggested by some, including an engineer, to resemble modern jet aircraft.

Exotic Propulsion Systems

The bulletin explores the concept of 'exotic propulsion systems,' which have long been a staple of science fiction. It notes that research is now being conducted into 'anti-gravity' propulsion (nicknamed Project Greenglow) and NASA's advanced propulsion research, including concepts like 'warp drives' and 'wormholes.' The possibility of anti-matter engines and true starships capable of interstellar travel within decades is discussed, suggesting that the idea of extraterrestrial intelligence (ETH) may not be as far-fetched as it once seemed.

Early Sightings and Interpretation

Further historical reports are presented, spanning from Roman times (216 BC) through the medieval period (1235, 1271, 1361, 1468) and into the 18th century (1799, 1865). These accounts describe various aerial phenomena, including swarms of lights, fiery pillars, revolving wheels, and objects shaped like drums or ships. The interpretation section suggests that many of these early reports may be misrepresentations of natural phenomena, such as meteors or electrical disturbances, rather than extraterrestrial craft. The article also critically examines the role of early researchers and personalities like George Adamski, whose publicity machine and claims are described as 'ludicrous.'

Member Feedback and Resources

The bulletin includes feedback from members, such as a letter from Stuart Fraser Martin who found an article on satellite formations particularly helpful. It also recommends resources like the GSOC website for satellite tracking and the TORRO (Tornado & Storm Research Association) website for ball lightning information. A section is dedicated to advertising the BUFORA Bookshop, listing various reports, proceedings, and back issues of magazines for sale. Contact details for BUFORA and other related organizations like SPI England and APRA are provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical investigation of anomalous aerial phenomena, the critical examination of evidence, and the exploration of potential explanations ranging from natural atmospheric events to advanced technological origins, including extraterrestrial hypotheses. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, encouraging members to share feedback and research, while also maintaining a degree of skepticism and a commitment to scientific rigor, as evidenced by the emphasis on discarding explained reports and seeking objective interpretations. The bulletin aims to inform its readers about ongoing research, historical cases, and the evolving understanding of UFO phenomena, while also promoting the BUFORA organization and its activities.

This document, identified as BUFORA Bulletin #19, consists of two pages. The first page is dedicated to "SPECIAL BOOK BARGANS FOR YEAR 2000," offering discounted prices on several UFO-related books. The second page details "BUFORA LECTURES," announcing a new venue and schedule for meetings starting in September 2000, along with specific lecture topics and speakers for upcoming events.

Book Bargains

The first page lists several books with their original and reduced prices. These include:

• A COVERT AGENDA by Nicholas Redfern (1998): Described as a validation of UFO data secrecy by intelligence sections. It features 8 plates, an index, and 365 pages. Originally £6.99, now £2.25.
• The UFO ENCYCLOPEDIA by John Spencer (1993): An A-Z sourcebook with people, sighting locations, societies, and definitions. It has 8 colour plates, 32 black & white plates, and 350 pages. Originally $15.00, now £3.25.
• CONFIRMATION The Hard Evidence by Whitley Strieber (1998): Details implants and physical evidence of UFOs, including an interview with Monsignor Corrado Balducci from 1996. It has 16 plates, an index, and 290 pages. Originally £15.99, now £7.95.
• THE THREAT by David Jacobs, Ph.D. (1998): Explains the abduction phenomenon and hybridization program. It includes references, an index, and 265 pages. Originally £16.99, now £7.95.
• SATANS MISTRESS by Val Lewis (1998): This book, noted as not widely available, recounts the life of Joanna Southcoh, an 18th-century cult leader. It contains 34 illustrations and an index, totaling 320 pages. It is reduced to *£12.00 and is described as a hard-to-find title, with the price including heavy postage.

All prices include postage, packing, and prompt despatch. Enquiries can be made at 020-8979 3148, from Lionel Beer at 115 Hollybush Lane, HAMPTON, TW12 2QY.

BUFORA Lectures

The second page announces changes to the BUFORA London Lectures. Starting in September 2000, meetings will occur on the first Monday of each month, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, at a new venue: The Quaker International Center, William Penn House, Byng Place (off Gower Street). The nearest tube stations are Euston Sq, Russel Sq, and Goodge St.

Upcoming lectures include:

• Monday, September 4th, 2000: GEORGE WINGFIELD will present "New Perspectives On The UFO Phenomenon," discussing his findings on mysterious 'black triangles' sighted across the United Kingdom.
• Monday, October 2nd, 2000: JERRY ANDERSON will speak on "UFO Sightings Over Kent." His talk will cover cases from Kent, Burmarsh, and Gravesend dating back to 1954, including close encounters of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd kinds, and will feature video segments and slides. A case involving the then Home Secretary, Michael Howard, will also be discussed.
• Monday, November 6th, 2000: A new speaker is to be arranged.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The bulletin clearly focuses on UFO phenomena, book reviews, and public lectures related to the subject. The editorial stance appears to be one of promoting awareness and discussion of UFO-related topics, offering resources (books) and platforms (lectures) for enthusiasts. The inclusion of specific, detailed book descriptions and lecture synopses suggests an aim to inform and engage the BUFORA membership and the wider public interested in these subjects.