BUFORA Ireland Branch Journal - vol 1 no 2

Magazine Overview

Title: Bufara (Ireland) Branch Journal
Issue: Issue Two Vol. One
Date: May/Aug 1993
Publisher: BUFORA (Ireland) Branch
Country: Ireland
Price: £ 2.50 (Free for BUFORA (Ire) Branch Members)

This issue of the Bufara (Ireland) Branch Journal, the second published by the Irish branch of BUFORA, is larger than its predecessor and features a prominent cover story questioning the identity of the Roswell Alien, accompanied by an image suggestive of an alien body. The journal covers a range of UFO phenomena, investigations, and related media.

Editorial

In the editorial, Karl Morris, the editor, reflects on the significant UFO sightings reported across Ireland and the UK on March 30/31, 1993. He notes the widespread media coverage and public imagination captured by the phenomenon. Morris highlights the unusual nature of the reported sightings, including objects moving at roof height and reappearing, and mentions credible witnesses such as Garda and Air Corps helicopter pilots. He contrasts the government's interest and official investigation by the Department of Communications with the typical debunking process, expressing comfort in the thorough investigation. Morris also announces the expansion of the journal with new sections like 'Mailbox' and 'News Desk', soliciting reader contributions. He mentions several reviews, including a preview of the film 'Fire In The Sky' based on the Travis Walton abduction case, and thanks readers for their support of the first issue.

News Desk

The 'News Desk' section reports on several distinct UFO-related events:

• Strange Sight Over Shanghai: The Xmorin Evening News reported on a strange, unidentified flying object observed for over an hour in Shanghai, China, on Tuesday. Witnesses described an orange-red, man-shaped object that moved and stopped, emitting green tendrils before disappearing.
• No Conflict Over 'Aliens' Says Vatican: The Vatican Observatory has published findings suggesting the existence of other solar systems like our own. Jesuit Fr. George Coyne, director, stated that their study of newborn stars surrounded by planetary system makings is an 'extraordinarily important result' providing evidence for other systems and possible life. He noted that if intelligent alien life were found, the Church would need to address its inclusion, and that there is no conflict between faith and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
• UFO, Debris or Secret U.S. Plane? (Ireland): Government inspectors noted the 'remarkable' consistency of UFO reports from civil and military pilots across Ireland on March 31, 1993. The Department of Transport is keeping an open mind, with a preliminary investigation by the Air Navigation Services Office (ANSO) confirming reports of two or more bright lights moving silently across the sky. The objects were seen at various altitudes, from a few hundred feet to 25,000 feet, and reports came from most areas of the country, including aircraft over Northern Ireland and Wales. The sightings lasted for a few minutes.

Reviews

This section features reviews of books and videos related to UFO phenomena:

• 'Alien Update' by Tim Good: Reviewed by an unnamed contributor, this book is described as a compilation of recent events connected to Tim Good's previous work, 'Alien Liaison'. It includes a foreword on media coverage of UFOs and the SETI program, an account of an alleged alien base in Puerto Rico, UFOs over Washington D.C., Montreal, and an update on animal mutilations. The reviewer praises the book's diversity of accounts and information, calling it the best book read that year and anticipating Good's next book, 'Alien Contact'. The book is published by Arrow, priced at £4.99 (UK), with ISBN 0-09-025761-0, and receives a rating of 10/10.
• 'Messengers of Destiny' (Video): Reviewed by Philip Mantle, this video is presented by Ark Soundwaves and focuses on UFO sightings in Mexico City during the July 11, 1991, solar eclipse. Unlike typical witness interviews, the video captures the events on film. It features daylight UFO footage, comparisons with other international sightings, and an expert's analysis of propulsion. Mantle notes that while the video is engaging and avoids the usual pitfalls of such documentaries, he criticizes the cost and the lack of scientific analysis of the numerous video films. He suggests that the producers, Genesis 111, have named names in the credits, allowing for potential independent investigation.

Film Preview

• 'Fire In The Sky': This section previews the film 'Fire In The Sky', based on the true story of Travis Walton's alleged abduction by a UFO in 1975 in Arizona. Screenwriter Tracy Torme describes the film as a study of how a single event can alter life, exploring friendship and betrayal. Torme and co-producer Robert Strauss investigated the story, interviewing Walton and other witnesses whose accounts remained consistent. The film stars D.B. Sweeney, Craig Sheffer, Peter Berg, and James Garner, and was produced by Joe Wizan and Todd Black, with special effects by Industrial Light & Magic. The preview highlights the controversy surrounding the case and the challenges faced by those who experienced it, quoting Travis Walton on the disbelief he encountered and Joe Wizan on the film's exploration of human character and skepticism.

In Conference

This section details upcoming UFO conferences:

• 'The UFO Casebook' (7th International UFO Congress): Organized by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) to celebrate its 30th anniversary, this conference will take place at the University of Bristol on July 24th-25th. It will feature speakers from the UK, Europe, and the USA, including a special presentation by Walter Andrus, International Director of MUFON, discussing the Travis Walton case.
• 'UFOs: Fact, Fraud or Fantasy': This annual conference, organized by the Independent UFO Network (IUFON), will be held at the University of Hallam, Sheffield, on August 14th-15th. Speakers will include abduction researcher Budd Hopkins and Lynda Moulton Howe, known for her work on animal mutilations. The section also includes a call for organizers to display their upcoming UFO conferences in the journal.

Special Reports and Eyewitness Accounts

• The Mourne Mt. UFO: This report details an investigation into UFO sightings on March 30/31, 1993, with the first part focusing on sightings in the Limerick City area. It includes a first-hand eyewitness account from a BUFORA (Ireland) Branch member in Co. Down, who observed two lights or a single object near the Mourne Mountains on March 31st at 1:15 A.M. The object was described as circular, star-sized, moving at approximately 15 MPH at an altitude of 100FT, and left a faint vapour trail. The conditions were clear with a half moon. The witness estimated the object was about 50 yards away. The report notes that the timing is consistent with Limerick sightings and includes a sketch by the witness.
• The Ballybofey UFO: This case, reported by Pat Delaney & Anne Griffin, concerns a sighting from approximately 15 years prior to the publication date (around 1977). A witness, identified as 'J', and his friends observed a bright orange object on the main road from Donegal to Ballybofey. The area lit up as if daylight, and they saw a bright orange object, about half a mile high, emitting a searchlight. The object was described as sharply defined, very bright, and the size of a quarter moon. It disappeared as they drove away. The report notes that there were no aircraft in the area, which is outside the Air Traffic Control Zone, and that the object's movement was controlled and slow. The conclusion states that the witness is sincere and honest, and they likely saw a UFO.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO sightings, investigations, and the broader implications of potential extraterrestrial contact. The journal exhibits a stance that favors serious investigation and the presentation of facts, contrasting with what it perceives as a tendency towards debunking in mainstream media. There is a clear interest in documenting and analyzing UFO events, particularly those occurring in Ireland, and in exploring the public and scientific discourse surrounding these phenomena. The inclusion of reviews and previews of books and films, as well as information on conferences, indicates an effort to engage readers with the latest developments and perspectives in the field of ufology. The journal also touches upon the intersection of UFO phenomena with religious and scientific inquiry, as seen in the Vatican's perspective on extraterrestrial life.

This issue of the BUFORA (Ireland) Branch Journal, titled 'The Whining Disk', published in March 1993, covers a range of UFO-related incidents and organizational updates. The magazine features reports on sightings, alleged cover-ups, and the activities of the BUFORA (Ireland) Branch.

The Whining Disk

The lead article details a sighting from Carlingford, Co. Louth, Ireland, on April 14th, 1990. A local chemist reported seeing a 'Spinning Saucer' approximately 30 meters in diameter. The object descended, glowed orange, emitted a piercing noise that caused distress to a witness and nearby horses, and then lifted into cloud cover after turning blue and then red. The witness reportedly forgot to take photos initially but managed one shot as it left. Other locals heard the noise, and a truck driver's radio stopped working. The sighting occurred at 16:30 on a fine day with scattered cloud. Unfortunately, the witness did not cooperate with the investigation, preventing further follow-up.

Electric UFOs

Another report describes a sighting on Sunday, July 30th, 1989, at 22:00 p.m. by an elderly couple in Dublin. They observed a rising orange ball, the size of the sun, followed by a second, and then many more emerging from a larger object and drifting across the sky towards Clontarf. Over 90 minutes, about 100 UFOs were seen. Investigators checked aircraft and balloon launches without success, leaving them baffled, especially as no other witnesses were reported.

Roswell - The Cover-up Continues

This extensive article delves into the Roswell incident, questioning the authenticity of a photograph of an alleged alien from a TV series. It discusses the possibility of a 46-year cover-up of a UFO crash in the New Mexico Desert. The article references Steven Spielberg's film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' and the alleged government attempts to prevent its release. It highlights witness accounts, including Rancher Mac Brazel and Civil Engineer Barney Barnett, who reportedly found wreckage and small, dead humanoid bodies. The military's explanation of a crashed weather balloon is contrasted with claims of a cover-up. The article mentions a photograph of a relatively undamaged alien, allegedly preserved at an Air Force base, though its existence is officially denied. It traces the photograph's origin to a former Soviet test pilot, Dr. Marina Popovitch. The article also touches upon the possibility of alien genetic experimentation on humans and the concept of hybrid beings.

The Socorro Incident

Compiled by Karl Morris, this article recounts the Socorro incident of April 24th, 1964. Police Officer Lonnie Zamora, while pursuing a speeding motorist, witnessed a roar and a 'flame' in the sky. He investigated and discovered a shiny, aluminum-like object supported by four girder-like legs, with two small humanoid figures nearby. The object emitted loud thumps and a roar before rising horizontally and departing. Zamora radioed his headquarters and later made a sketch of strange insignia on the object. Investigations found four burn marks and depressions at the site. The incident generated significant excitement, and Project Blue Book investigators were reportedly puzzled, with Dr. J. Allen Hynek admitting defeat in finding a simple explanation. Zamora later quit the police force, reportedly due to 'bad luck'.

Angels Heard on High

This article follows up on a previous report about music more beautiful than anything heard on Earth being recorded at a NASA satellite monitoring station. Experts believe they captured the sound of 'Angels singing in Heaven'. NASA denies this, but a technician in the Gilbert Islands explained that the transmission might have been picked up by Pioneer Ten, a deep space probe launched in 1972, and relayed via satellites. French amateur astronomer Marie Giot described the singing as 'electrifying' and a profound spiritual experience.

The Final Frontier

Written by Denis Harper, this article expresses interest in Timothy Good's book 'Above Top Secret' and speculates about governments acquiring alien technology. It raises questions about the potential uses of this technology, such as curing diseases or prolonging life, and the implications for overpopulation. The author considers the possibility of governments striking deals with aliens, leading to hybrids and alien occupation of Earth. The article concludes by questioning whether the arrival of hybrids is a future event or has already occurred.

Mailbox

This section features letters from readers. One reader congratulates the journal and expresses interest in UFOlogy, mentioning Nostradamus's prophecies about alien appearances. Another reader, Joseph Kerr, finds the '500 year old alien' story dubious and questions the feasibility of a large-scale cover-up. He requests a photo of the alleged 'starship'. The editor responds, acknowledging the dubious nature of the '500 year old alien' story and promising to publish from credible sources. The editor also thanks readers for their feedback and mentions an upcoming BUFORA (Ireland) lecture.

Status Report - 1989/93 BUFORA (Ireland) Branch

Compiled by Ann Griffin, this report details the establishment and early challenges of the BUFORA (Ireland) Branch. It describes efforts to recruit members through local TV advertising and the initial difficulty in collecting membership fees due to the high Sterling cost. A solution was found by introducing IR£18.00 Sterling as the annual fee, with an option for three monthly payments of IR£6.00. The report highlights the appointment of Karl as the new P.R.O. and the publication of the first journal in March 1993. It expresses optimism for the branch's future growth and its role in encouraging people to share their UFO experiences.

Application Form

The issue concludes with an application form for membership to BUFORA (Ireland) Branch, including details on membership fees, contact information, and ways members can assist the organization.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, alleged government cover-ups, and the investigation of paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging reader participation and the sharing of experiences, while also striving for credible reporting, as indicated by the response to the '500 year old alien' story. The journal aims to foster a community for UFOlogy enthusiasts in Ireland.

This document is the first issue of the 'BUFORA (Ireland) Branch' Journal, published in 1993. It details the organization's structure, aims, and activities related to the study of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs).

About the Organisation

The modern study of UFO phenomena is often traced back to Kenneth Arnold's 1947 report. However, reports of strange aerial phenomena in the UK and Ireland date back to the turn of the century. BUFORA (Ireland) Branch acknowledges various theories about UFOs, including natural phenomena and advanced technology, but does not advocate for any single explanation.

BUFORA, the Headquarters in England, was founded in 1962 as a federation of UFO groups. Many of these groups originated in the 1950s, including the British Flying Saucer Bureau, believed to be the UK's oldest UFO group. The organization was known as the British UFO Association before changing its name to the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) in 1964.

BUFORA (Ireland) Branch was formed in 1989 under the directorship of Pat Delaney and Anne Griffin. In April 1992, it became officially affiliated with BUFORA England and is now known as 'BUFORA (Ireland) Branch'. The branch is registered under the Data Protection Act, and membership records are kept on a computer database, with a policy not to release these records to third parties.

Membership is open to all who support the association's aims and whose applications are approved by the Council of Management.

Aims of BUFORA (Ireland) Branch:

• To encourage, promote, and conduct unbiased scientific research of UFO phenomena throughout Ireland and England.
• To collect and disseminate evidence and data relating to UFOs.
• To co-ordinate UFO research throughout Ireland and co-operate with others engaged in such research worldwide.

Activities and Services:

BUFORA's activities include research and investigation, with investigators conducting on-site field investigations of reported cases. The research also involves statistical analysis and technical support. The organization offers support to witnesses through its 'Witness Support Group' (WSG), which is run by its UK mother house. These activities are supported by a press cutting service and libraries of case reports. Case information can be provided to recognized UFO research groups.

The branch publishes a journal three times a year to keep members informed about the Irish and International UFO scene. This journal is also available to non-members for £3.00 (including postage and packing).

The Back Page

And Finally...

This section is an editorial note from the Editor ('Ed.'). The Editor dedicates the journal to 'Carol' and expresses thanks to Denis Harper for an article, Philip Mantle for film reviews, Tim Good for advice, and various witnesses and contributors. The Editor also acknowledges the use of Samsung technology, an Atari Mega ST 1 computer, Pagestream DTP software, Protext WP, Degas Elite, PD utilities, and a Naksha hand-held scanner for producing the journal. The Editor expresses a desire for a laser printer.

Copyrights

The issue lists copyrights for various elements, including:

• Cover of 'Alien Update' (Arrow Publishing).
• Sketch used in 'Mourne Mt' (BUFORA (Ireland)).
• Photo of Carlingford UFO (Evening Press).
• Socorro photos (Orbis Pb.).
• Roswell pics (Avon Books).
• Front Cover Photo (source unknown).
• 'Alien Gallery' (Issue 1) (UFO Magazine, California).

Next Issue:

Topics planned for the next issue include:

• The Catholic Church's stance on UFOs, aliens, and abductions.
• A full report on UFOs sighted over Ireland and England on March 30/31.
• A review of the videos 'Intruders' and 'Communion'.

Help Wanted:

An appeal is made for information regarding Irish Cattle mutilations.

Back Issues and Membership:

Back issues of the 1993 BUFORA (Ireland) Branch Journal are available for £3.00 inc. P&P. International UFO Groups can obtain a copy in exchange for their own magazine. Membership forms are available from BOX 3070, with other information available from the P.R.O.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the establishment and operation of BUFORA (Ireland) Branch, its historical context within UFO research in the UK and Ireland, and its commitment to scientific, unbiased research. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness, acknowledging multiple theories without endorsing any single one, and a dedication to collecting and disseminating evidence. The publication also highlights the practical aspects of producing the journal and the ongoing efforts to gather information on UFO cases and related phenomena.