CUFORG - Vol 2 No 12 - 1982 12

Magazine Overview

Title: Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter
Issue: No. 12
Volume: II
Date: December, 1982

This issue of the Cambridge UFO Research Group Newsletter, Volume II, Issue 12, dated December 1982, contains reports on several UFO and close encounter cases, alongside meeting summaries and a cartoon.

Content Summary

September/October Meeting and Homer Shaeffer's Collection

The newsletter opens with a report on the September/October meeting, where member Homer Shaeffer presented his extensive collection of UFO slides, books, and periodicals, accumulated over 30 years of interest in the subject. Shaeffer also shared details of a significant landing case that occurred in Galt (Cambridge) in August 1957. He was present at the landing site and interviewed the witness. The report mentions the discovery of 'big foot type' tracks and includes references to photos of these tracks and a local newspaper article about the landing. Homer Shaeffer reportedly has a scrapbook dedicated to this incident.

The Galt Landing Case (August 3, 1957)

This section reprints an article from The Evening Reporter, Galt, Ontario, dated Saturday, August 3, 1957, titled "BOY 'LYING SAUCER' LAND - 'I WILL WR FORMT IT, I WAS PETRIFIED,' BOY SAIS". The article, told by Jack Stevens to Roy Francis, details a 15-year-old Galt boy's account of seeing a flying saucer land three days prior. The boy, Jack Stevens, described being petrified, watching the object settle, and then lift off and move across a small lake. He was out with his dog, Tex, near the Paris highway when the event occurred around 10:30 AM. He noticed a bright light moving quickly, which he initially thought was a plane, but then saw an old, circular shape with a queer, singing hum. The machine moved across a field, hovered about 300 yards away, and then descended like a helicopter. The object was described as having a bright, round body spinning very fast, with light inside. It hovered about two feet above the ground, estimated to be 30-35 feet wide and 10-12 feet high. The witness heard no sound from the thing itself, but Tex was barking. He saw no hatches or doors. After hovering, it climbed without sound and zoomed away. The witness felt cold and described the experience as terrible.

A follow-up note in the newsletter indicates that Jack Stevens, along with Gerry and Danny, later visited the site and found prints and burned stubble in a gully, with some small trees and twigs broken off.

Strange Flying Object Over Preston (August 13, 1957)

Another reprinted article from The Evening Reporter, Galt, Ontario, dated Tuesday, August 13, 1957, reports on a "STRANGE FLYING OBJECT" seen hovering over Preston. Two Preston police constables, R. L. (Len) Sneath and James Hewitt, along with Preston fireman Wm. Toleff, observed the object. A report was radioed from Galt police after calls from Elmwood Ave. residents reported a "Flying Object" heading towards Preston. The police cruiser, with Constable Sneath driving, picked up Constable Hewitt and Fireman Toleff. They proceeded on the Breslau Road and stopped on Kress Hill where the object was spotted. Bill Toleff described it as a "huge, shining object, circular in plan" that appeared to have fire jetting out, with no discernible front or back. Constable Sneath confirmed it was not an airplane due to its ability to move in spurts, stop dead, and hover. Constable James Hewitt stated it was headed in a "westerly direction" and described its unbelievable ability to stop and remain stationary. Elmwood Ave. residents corroborated the sighting. The Preston men were certain of what they saw but did not know what it was.

November Meeting: Pinebush Road Close Encounter Case

The newsletter details the group's November meeting, which focused on the Pinebush Road close encounter case. The tape of the session was played and thoroughly discussed. The information pertaining to this follows.

December Meeting: Pinebush Road Case Review

At the December meeting, the Pinebush Road case was again reviewed, along with further taping. The writer expressed pleasant surprise when Cecilia VanManen thanked them for their work in keeping the group going and presented them with two gifts and a card.

Pinebush Road First Session (November 2, 1982)

This section provides a detailed account of a session held on November 2, 1982, with the witness of the CE 1 (Close Encounter of the First Kind) that occurred on Pinebush Road, Cambridge, on November 18, 1980. The session, conducted by Mr. Veiledal, R.M., aimed to ascertain what happened during a missing 15 minutes. The witness was put into a state of complete relaxation and meditation.

According to the witness's account during the session:

• She somehow got out of her car with lights beckoning her.
• She entered a small craft, which felt cold inside, and was "squashed." No entity was seen at this point.
• The door closed, and she couldn't get out. It then opened, and she was taken out and into a large craft.
• This large craft had a "flip flop, swing door." Inside, she was moving on something and couldn't walk.
• She saw many "ugly beings with eyes were all over" in the large craft. They had no faces, only eyes, described as "bright, large, ugly, eyes," and called "frigging ants." The eyes frightened her. The account notes similarities to the Betty and Barney Hill, Betty Andreasson, and Travis Walton cases regarding the initial impression of "eyes."
• She was taken through a long tunnel with rough edges to a room with "dam" doors, where she saw lights and underwent an examination.
• Her clothes were removed. She called the beings "evil" and felt very cold. Suction cups were stuck on her arms and hands, which she believes caused grey, blotchy patches later.
• She saw 3 eyes sitting on chairs. Through mental telepathy, these beings told her she was rejected because she had no parts, being different due to a hysterectomy (noting similarity to Betty Hill and Betty Andreasson cases).
• She was angry and wanted to go home, but they wouldn't let her.
• She kept praying, as she is Christian, and felt the eyes hurt her eyes. She didn't think they were friendly but believed they wanted to see her again.
• The 3 eyes in the chair didn't speak, but the "ants" followed their commands, which were transmitted via thought waves. The beings were referred to as "big shits."
• They commanded "ugly grotesque wings." The 3 eyes gave her a tablet that made her mouth very dry and thirsty, intended to make her forget the incident.
• She described the beings again as "frigging ants, creepy, crawling, frigging things, with big eyes, ugly grotesque eyes." She briefly mentioned seeing something like computers.
• Her emotion during the questioning was evident, as she was reliving the experience and was upset.

Mr. Veiledal felt the witness was tired and ended the session, assuring her she would feel relaxed and remember everything.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The newsletter consistently focuses on UFO sightings, landing cases, and close encounters, presenting witness testimonies and investigative reports. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious inquiry into these phenomena, providing a platform for discussion and sharing of information within the UFO research community. The inclusion of reprinted newspaper articles and detailed session transcripts suggests a commitment to documenting and analyzing reported events. The newsletter also highlights the ongoing work and meetings of the Cambridge UFO Research Group, fostering a sense of community among its members.

This issue of the Cambridge U.F.O. Research Group's publication focuses on two main areas: a detailed account of a personal UFO encounter and a strong critique of a television documentary about UFOs.

Jean's Encounter and Follow-Up

The publication begins with a follow-up to a previous session with a woman named Jean. It details her husband's observation that she has been pulling at her eyes during sleep, sometimes waking with her hands on her eyes, which are red and sore. On Tuesday evening, November 9th, Jean's husband experienced a sighting of strange lights in the sky while out of gas on Pinebush Road, which he deemed unexplainable by conventional aircraft. The following morning, November 10th, Jean had a deeply disturbing experience. While trying to clean her room, she felt suddenly tired and on the verge of passing out. She lay on her bed and became completely paralyzed, unable to move or open her eyes. She felt something, described as a hand, touching her intimately over her body. She perceived this entity as not being a physical man and experienced a sexual climax. After the entity left, she regained control of her body and immediately called her husband, who advised her to leave the house, but she resolved to face the situation.

Jean then called her best friend and spent the morning trying to process the experience, feeling she was going crazy and that her body had been violated. The report notes that an immediate meditation session was arranged for that evening to help her cope.

Second Session on November 10, 1982

During the second meditation session that evening, conducted by Mr. Veiledal, Jean was still distraught. Mr. Veiledal guided her back to the sighting, where she saw a craft with steady lights that seemed to be 'talking' to her. She felt pulled by the lights and taken out of her car, entering a small craft that moved too fast. When questioned about being in a larger craft, a tunnel, and an examination room, she stated she couldn't answer because 'we wouldn't understand' and 'it wasn't right.' She mentioned that 'they' (presumably the entities) were controlling her and wouldn't let her communicate details. She described them as sometimes being there and sometimes not, with a 'blanket' effect. When asked about computers (from a previous session), she said they wouldn't let her see them. She expressed a desire not to see them again but could sometimes see them by their eyes.

Afterwards, Jean recalled leaders' chairs on a platform, resembling 'Santa Claus' chairs. She reiterated that in the examination room, the 'eyes' touched her intimately, which was why she had blocked out answering questions during the session. She was ashamed and horrified by what had happened.

Critique of NOVA's 'The Case of the UFOs'

The issue also includes several articles and letters addressing the controversial NOVA television program, 'The Case of the UFOs,' which aired on October 12, 1982. The program is widely criticized for being a biased 'debunking effort' that presented a one-sided view against UFOs.

Open Letter from MUFON International Director

Walter H. Andrus, Jr., International Director of MUFON, addresses an open letter to State and Provincial Directors and Board of Directors. He expresses displeasure after a private showing of the program, noting that it was a 'debunking effort' and that participants like James E. Oberg, Philip J. Klass, Michael A. Persinger, Brian Brady, and W. 'Bill' Ireland were featured, while Dr. J. Allen Hynek's contributions were edited out. He also mentions that footage of John Schuessler discussing the Cash/Landrum case was not used. Andrus criticizes the selection of participants, stating that Kendrick Frazier, editor of 'The Skeptical Inquirer,' provided the list to the producers. He urges MUFON members to contact their local PBS outlets to express dissatisfaction with the program and to communicate this information to the news media.

Guest Editorial by J. Allen Hynek, PhD

Dr. J. Allen Hynek, a prominent UFO researcher, expresses his disgust and contempt for the NOVA program. He notes that the program was advertised as a 'rigorous, scientific investigation' but instead gave the impression that UFO investigators were not playing with a full deck of cards. Hynek, who had been involved in taping for the program, was amazed at how much material was edited out, creating a biased presentation. He cites the example of the Joliet case, which was carefully investigated and suggested by Alan Hendry, but was not used by NOVA. Instead, the program focused on 'fake pictures' and debunkers like astronaut Conrad. Hynek argues that the program implied that by proving the existence of counterfeit money, the existence of legitimate coinage is denied. He calls for a documentary that presents the nature of the UFO phenomenon fairly and examines cases representing hundreds of documented instances.

Further Critiques and Attachments

Additional articles, including one by Gerald Jonas titled 'We may need them more than they need us,' discuss the NOVA program's bias. Jonas notes that the program looked at UFOs as its new season began. Another section features a large graphic of 'UFOS' and discusses Jonathan Schell's theory that the popularity of science fiction and the theme of alien life might be a symptom of the nuclear age, reflecting national trauma. The article mentions the first UFO sightings in 1947 and the U.S. Air Force's investigations, which concluded no evidence of supernatural or extraterrestrial origin, leading some to believe in a cover-up. The author suggests that little credence is placed in expert opinions regarding UFOs, with the desire to believe outweighing evidence.

An attached article from the NOVA publicity release describes the program as a 'scientific expose' and mentions its upcoming episodes on the Himalayas and artificial intelligence. It also announces a book, 'NOVA: Adventures in Science,' celebrating the series' 10th season.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the reality and investigation of UFO phenomena, the personal impact of alleged encounters, and the perceived bias and misinformation presented by mainstream media, particularly in the context of the NOVA documentary. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of serious UFO investigation and critical of media portrayals that dismiss or debunk the subject without balanced consideration. The publication advocates for open-minded, scientific inquiry into UFOs and encourages readers to actively voice their concerns about biased reporting.

This issue of "Nova" celebrates its tenth anniversary on public television, marking the occasion with a replay of its inaugural show, "The Making of a Natural History Film," alongside new explorations of science and its mysteries. The issue delves into the enduring fascination with UFOs, examining historical perspectives, scientific inquiry, and the potential explanations for sightings.

The Enduring Mystery of UFOs

The article "Nova's Tenth" introduces the series's milestone and highlights the persistent human interest in unexplained aerial phenomena. It notes that sightings of strange objects in the sky are not a recent occurrence, dating back centuries. While many UFO sightings can be attributed to natural phenomena, psychological needs, or hoaxes, the desire to understand if humanity is alone in the universe drives ongoing scientific investigation.

Experimental Aircraft and Flying Saucers

A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to "USAF: TOP SECRET" by Jack Pickett, which investigates the existence of experimental, disc-shaped aircraft developed by the U.S. Air Force from the late 1940s through the early 1950s. Pickett recounts his personal encounter with these craft, which he describes as "flying saucers," and details their characteristics, including their size, propulsion, and flight capabilities. He suggests that these aircraft, some of which were stored and later dismantled, might be the source of many UFO reports. The article includes a table of experimental aircraft designations and a description of the secrecy surrounding their development and storage, with potential locations like Offutt AFB being mentioned.

Scientific and Social Perspectives on UFOs

"Social Scientists Examine the 'Frontiers'" by John Dowdell offers a critique of how social scientists engage with subjects like UFOs. It highlights the formation of the Society for Scientific Exploration, an organization comprising over 100 university professors from various disciplines, dedicated to providing a forum for serious papers on anomalous science. The society aims to be neutral and facilitate an exchange of diverse viewpoints. The article contrasts the approaches of different conferences, one sponsored by NASA focusing on "Life in the Universe" and another by MUFON on UFO surveillance, noting the differing methodologies and participant demographics.

Theoretical Considerations and Skepticism

Another piece features a letter from Russ Reardon to "Bonnie," expressing skepticism about theories that posit extraterrestrial beings easily moving between dimensions. Reardon argues that the laws of physics are constant throughout the universe and criticizes UFO writers for using declarative sentences to support unsubstantiated theories, suggesting they should stick to fiction.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a balanced approach to the UFO phenomenon, acknowledging the public's fascination while emphasizing the need for scientific rigor and evidence. It showcases the efforts of researchers and organizations like the Society for Scientific Exploration to bring a more structured, academic approach to studying anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to encourage open inquiry but also promotes critical thinking and a distinction between scientific investigation and speculative theories. The inclusion of cartoons from "The Far Side" and "Punch" adds a touch of humor, commenting on the more outlandish aspects of UFO lore and potential extraterrestrial encounters.

This issue of "Social Scientists Examine the Frontiers" by John Dowdell, published by the Cambridge UFO Research Group in England in January 1982, delves into the differing approaches of various organizations and individuals to the study of UFOs and Extraterrestrial Intelligence (ETI).

MUFON vs. NASA (Re: ETI)

The article contrasts the methodologies and public perceptions of MUFON (Mutual UFO Network) and NASA's ETI research, particularly the SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) program. MUFON is characterized by its workshops, films, and topics such as "Parallels with Other Altered Consciousness States" and "The Religious Dimension to the UFO Phenomenon." Its support comes from the public via meetings and TV, and its speakers are affiliated with MUFON, though their affiliations are not always as prestigious as those in scientific circles. MUFON's attitude towards government is largely negative, with no NASA support for UFO studies, citing the Condon Committee Report of 1969. The article suggests UFOs are not easily controlled or studied, leading to public pressure-oriented attitudes.

In contrast, NASA's ETI research, including SETI, is described as working quietly behind the scenes, seeking government and scientific support. Their audience and speakers are professional scientists and scholars affiliated with well-known universities or research institutes. NASA's approach is seen as more scientifically rigorous, easier to "control" research, and amenable to established research techniques like radio signals. Their attitude is generally supportive.

The "Overlap" section notes that both groups seek friends and funds. The primary reason for the difference is historical, with MUFON facing ridicule and sensationalism, while NASA/SETI maintains a low profile. Ufology is seen by some as a threat due to fear of reprisal or guilt by association. The theoretical stance of ufologists includes E.T.I., parallel universes, and psychotronic manipulation, whereas NASA/SETI assumes E.T. beings are similar to us and that the laws of physics apply universally. The author suggests that intelligent members of both groups realize the need to join forces, drawing an analogy from Carl Sagan's ideas about the logical (left) and intuitive (right) hemispheres of the brain, implying that both aspects are needed for a complete understanding of the cosmos.

Center for UFO Studies Acquires NICAP

This section, authored by Richard Hall, details the acquisition of the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) by the Center for UFO Studies (CUFOS) in January 1982. The new NICAP Board, comprised of CUFOS officers, assumed NICAP's obligations, including providing a newsletter. NICAP, formed in 1956, had a significant history, peaking in the 1960s with approximately 14,000 members and investigating more UFO reports than the Air Force. It gained national prominence in 1957 and attracted notable figures like Maj. Donald E. Keyhoe, Rear Admiral Delmer S. Fahrney, and Vice Adm. R.H. Hillenkoetter. NICAP's Washington location provided access to national news media and government contacts, using witness reports to highlight the seriousness of the UFO problem. However, the negative conclusions of the Condon Report dulled public interest, and NICAP faced financial difficulties, including a net operating loss of $9,928.91 in 1972. The organization sought a more business-oriented management under John L. Acuff, but this led to a talent drain as affiliates resigned. Despite continuing to publish information, NICAP became largely a paper organization. The acquisition by CUFOS ensures the preservation of NICAP's estimated 10,000-15,000 investigated reports for future research. The article notes that NICAP played a crucial role in battling for public awareness against government obfuscation.

M.I.B. Activity Reported from Victoria B.C.

This section, written by Dr. P.M.H. Edwards, details a significant UFO sighting and subsequent encounter with "Men in Black" (MIB) by two witnesses in Victoria, British Columbia. The primary witness is Grant Breiland, a 16-year-old with above-average intelligence and keen observational skills. The second witness, identified only as N.B., is a 19-year-old who declined to be publicly identified.

On Friday, October 2, 1981, at approximately 9:30 p.m., Grant Breiland observed a large, bright white light in the sky, which he initially mistook for a star. His sister and a passing boy did not see it. Using binoculars, N.B. confirmed seeing the object, describing it as a "big red light... pointing right at me." Grant photographed the object, which was described as having a diamond-shaped red light in its center and four large white lights around it, with yellow beams directed towards these lights. The object exhibited unusual movements, including circular motions and sideways and vertical movements.

Seven hours later, on Saturday, October 3, Victoria experienced a rare electrical thunderstorm. Both Grant and N.B. reported experiencing severe headaches that were difficult to relieve.

On Monday, October 5, Grant encountered two "Men in Black" in the vestibule of a K-Mart store. He described them as unusually dressed, with dark-blue suits, stiff postures, and peculiar facial features, including dark eyes without reflections and lips the same color as their skin. They asked Grant for his name and address, which he refused to provide. The "men" then left and appeared to vanish into thin air, leaving no footprints.

Grant experienced a nightmare that night, replaying the encounter and an interrogation in a spacecraft-like interior. He also reported a new reddish skin-welt on his right thigh observed on Tuesday, October 6.

The article includes diagrams of the sighting location and the K-Mart vestibule, as well as a sketch of the UFO based on Grant's drawing. It also lists suggested reading materials on UFOs and related topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue highlights the ongoing debate and differing methodologies within UFO research, contrasting the more popular, grassroots approach of MUFON with the scientifically oriented, government-backed research of NASA/SETI. It underscores the importance of preserving historical UFO data, as exemplified by CUFOS's acquisition of NICAP's files. The detailed account of the Victoria, B.C. "Men in Black" incident serves as a prime example of the type of witness testimony and unexplained phenomena that continue to drive UFO research, emphasizing the need for careful investigation and documentation. The editorial stance appears to favor a more integrated approach to UFO research, acknowledging the value of both scientific rigor and the broader public interest, and suggesting that collaboration between different groups is essential for advancing understanding.

This issue of FTRIS (Fortean Tape Recorded Information Service) presents a comprehensive catalog of recorded audio tapes related to UFO phenomena, compiled by Dennis Pilichis. The service is dedicated to the preservation, organization, and distribution of the fortean spoken word, offering an educational experience through firsthand accounts.

Content Highlights

Page 1: Witness Accounts and Personal Reflections

The first page details a close encounter reported by witness N.B., involving two slender, pale individuals with white hair who requested gasoline. N.B. noted peculiar details about their hands and their interaction with currency. The account also includes a follow-up phone call to Grant Breiland, who reported receiving unusual phone calls. A personal anecdote about Grant's dream of a deceased sister is also shared, highlighting a seemingly inexplicable connection.

Page 2-4: FTRIS Tape List #1

These pages constitute the core of the issue, providing an extensive catalog of audio tapes available through FTRIS. The list, numbered from 001 to 091, details various recordings, including:

• Documentaries and Broadcasts: Tapes of "UFO" movie documentaries, CBS TV programs like "UFOS: Friend Foe or Fantasy," and NBS News reports.
• Interviews and Lectures: Recordings of interviews with prominent figures like Donald Keyhoe, Gray Barker, Ivan T. Sanderson, George Hunt Williamson, Reinhold O. Schmidt, Orfeo Angelucci, and Colin McCarthy.
• Specific Cases: Accounts of UFO sightings and encounters, such as the Flatswood Monster, the Kearney Nebraska UFO occupant experiences, and the Sykesville Maryland Monster presentation.
• Thematic Recordings: Tapes focusing on specific aspects of ufology, including "UFO Trace Landing Cases," "Flying Saucers and Such," "Mass Hallucinations Vrs. Mass Hypnotism," and "Psychic Discoveries Behind The Iron Curtain."
• Geographical Focus: Many recordings highlight UFO activity and investigations in specific locations, including Ohio, Arizona, Nebraska, Canada, England, and Australia.

Page 5: Advertisement for "UFO/IFO: A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION"

This page features an advertisement for a publication titled "UFO/IFO: A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION," produced by SCUFORI and PROBE. It is described as an investigative study that delves into the areas of study and practice for UFO investigators, illustrating how knowledge and experience are used to eliminate possible 'culprits' for UFO sightings. The booklet is 44 pages, illustrated with photographs and diagrams, and available from SCUFORI in Swindon, Wilts.

Page 6: Book Review - "UFOs, Cars and EM Effects" by Mark Rodeghier

This section reviews Mark Rodeghier's book, which cataloged 441 cases of UFOs affecting vehicles. The review highlights Rodeghier's statistical analysis of electromagnetic (EM) effects associated with UFOs, noting that most incidents occurred in rural areas during late evening or early morning hours. The review discusses Rodeghier's findings on correlations between UFO characteristics, such as light beams and control of vehicles, and suggests that these EM events are physical phenomena. The reviewer praises the book as an important contribution to ufology literature.

Page 7: Book Review - "The UFO Verdict" by Robert Sheaffer

This review discusses Robert Sheaffer's book, which is praised for its informative, interesting, and enjoyable writing style. Sheaffer examines celebrated UFO flaps, using the example of Jimmy Carter's 1969 UFO sighting to illustrate how astronomical knowledge can debunk sightings. The review notes Sheaffer's critique of the UFO 'movement' as a reaction against science and reason, and his coining of the term "jealous phenomenon" to describe the selective behavior of UFOs. The reviewer concludes that Sheaffer's book is essential for anyone interested in UFOs.

Page 8: "Another Unsupported Claim?" by Russ Reardon

This short piece by Russ Reardon questions claims made in Raymond Fowler's book "THE MELCHIZEDEK CONNECTION" regarding alien implants. Reardon argues that if such implants were common, they would have been detected by airport scanners or hospital X-rays. He uses a personal anecdote about his cat's X-ray to illustrate the potential for "physical evidence" if such implants were detectable on film.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The overarching theme of this issue is the documentation and investigation of UFO phenomena. The FTRIS catalog itself represents a commitment to preserving firsthand accounts and research. The book reviews by Jerome Clark and the piece by Robert Sheaffer offer critical perspectives on ufology, with Sheaffer arguing that the field often operates against scientific principles and reason. The inclusion of the advertisement for "UFO/IFO: A PROCESS OF ELIMINATION" suggests an interest in rigorous investigative methods within the UFO community. The presence of diverse topics, from vehicle interference to alleged alien implants, reflects the broad scope of interest within the fortean and ufological communities.