Phenomenon Times - 2012 12

Magazine Overview

Title: The Phenomenon Times
Issue: November 2012
Publisher: The UFO & Paranormal Research Society of Australia
Focus: Reporting on news and studies outside mainstream science, with a broad, cross-disciplinary approach to paranormal events.

President's Report

Larraine Cilia, President of the UFO & Paranormal Research Society of Australia, opens the issue with a "President's Report." She shares her positive experience with a recent interview by Kayla Osborne for the South-West Advertiser, noting it was a more favorable treatment of the subject than previous instances. Cilia expresses satisfaction with the outcome and encourages readers to share the accompanying article as the society's final public relations effort for the year, emphasizing that "the future is in all our hands."

Eyes Cast Up to the Skies: Larraine Cilia's Dual Life

An article by Kayla Osborne profiles Larraine Cilia, highlighting her "double life" as the owner of Rossmore Florist by day and a paranormal investigator by night. Cilia, who is also the president and founding member of the Campbelltown-based UFO and Paranormal Research Society of Australia, explains that the group began with local sightings and has expanded over the years. She draws parallels between her interests in floristry and the paranormal, expressing a deep interest in the universe and a belief in collective consciousness. The society conducts night watches and investigations, and Cilia shares her lifelong interest in the paranormal, describing herself as "intuitively psychic." The society's scope covers spirituality, astronomy, and extraterrestrial contact. Cilia also serves as a counselor for those with paranormal experiences, noting the need for a support group due to the ridicule they often face. She asserts that "we just tell the truth, what we've experienced," presenting evidence while acknowledging that sceptics attempt to debunk it. Cilia is convinced of the existence of life beyond Earth, citing the vastness of the universe and the concept of a multiverse.

Vice President's Report: Dr. Eben Alexander's Near-Death Experience

Kellie Pataky, Vice President, discusses her encounter with a Channel 7 "Sunday" program interview featuring neurosurgeon Dr. Eben Alexander. Alexander experienced a near-death experience (NDE) in 2008 during a coma caused by meningitis. Pataky had hoped to review his new book, "Proof of Heaven," in the "Past Lives" article but it had not yet arrived. She shares an excerpt from the program, detailing Alexander's background as a Harvard-trained neurosurgeon who initially relied on logic. During his 7-day coma, he experienced a consciousness that defied his medical training, describing a realm of "waterfalls, colours indescribable and millions of butterflies flying through." Despite physicians preparing his family for the worst, he recovered. Alexander's recovery was medically miraculous, but he was driven to explain his experiences. He describes an "infinite blackness filled with love" and a "light from this brilliant orb." While scientists and sceptics suggest it was a dream or hallucination triggered by his illness, Alexander stresses that his brain was too affected for such phenomena. A vivid image of a girl beside him on a butterfly wing, conveying messages of love and reassurance, convinced him of the reality of his experience. He later learned this girl was his biological sister, "Betsey," who died before he knew her. Alexander is now convinced that souls are eternal and spirits live on. A full review of his book is promised for the next issue. Pataky concludes by wishing members a Merry Christmas and New Year.

Special Article: 'Just Smile' by B. Dickeson

B. Dickeson, a special article contributor, recounts the story of Adelaide ufologist Fred Stone's visit to New Zealand between September and November 1964. During his five-week tour, Stone corresponded with local UFO groups. He was interviewed by a television reporter in Auckland who asked him what he would do if he met an alien. Stone's memorable reply was, "Just smile and act naturally." Dickeson notes that while Stone was joking, alien encounters are typically not met with smiles but with "severe shock." The article contrasts childhood beliefs (Santa Claus, Tooth Fairy) with the concept of aliens, suggesting that accepting the existence of extraterrestrial life requires adding a "universe full of possibilities" to one's worldview, which is more difficult than subtracting childhood myths. This can lead to "ontological shock" when aliens defy scientific expectations, such as Albert Einstein's light speed barrier. Fred Stone died on February 20, 1977, and the article notes the significant emergence of the alien abduction phenomenon in the 35 years since.

Dickeson discusses how abduction events are the most extreme form of alien encounter, often leaving abductees with little control and input. After 30 years, many UFO investigators find abductions problematical, and the subject has lost its novelty, often being dismissed as "old news." Some researchers struggle with these incidents because they conflict with their views of UFOs as "angelic" or "God-linked" entities. The article questions why an alien, if omniscient, would need to conduct intrusive medical examinations, suggesting that such procedures diminish the alien's divine status. Dickeson notes that UFOR(NSW) formed a special interest group in 1992 to investigate abductions, but faced resistance from members who considered the topic too "sexy" or "yucky" for serious UFO groups, fearing it would alienate families and reduce public support. A similar situation occurred in the UK with BUFORA.

A Letter from the Secretary: A New Era

Dominic McNamara, Secretary of The UFO & Paranormal Research Society of Australia, writes about the society entering "A new era." He thanks members for their support over the past 12 years and notes the increased variety of subjects covered in their meetings since moving to the Arts centre. The society is interested in member requests for topical coverage and plans further presentations in 2013, aiming to broaden their horizons in the paranormal field. "Eerie Encounters" has become a successful series, with plans for 5 more episodes next year, totaling 10. McNamara has invested in professional video equipment and editing software, improving production quality. He mentions that some actors have offered to work on a feature-length special. Warmer weather will allow for more "on-site" events. The society's website is undergoing a major update over Christmas/New Year, which will include a research repository. They are seeking knowledge and personal experiences from members on specific phenomena.

McNamara also announces the introduction of a "Letters to the Editor" section in the new era of The Phenomenon Times, inviting views and responses to printed arguments. He clarifies that while anonymity might be reduced, names might not be printed as such, only a chosen name and suburb. The society often addresses topics of conspiracy and covert government groups, encouraging contributions from the public. McNamara emphasizes the society's stance against attacking those who uphold the law, focusing instead on private and group agendas that may compromise public well-being for commercial interests. He believes a democracy thrives on informed public decisions. The society is also gathering media appearances (press, radio, TV) to build a permanent record and encourages members to share their personal experiences. The new website will launch in January, and McNamara looks forward to the society's growth and future activities.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the exploration of the unexplained, the paranormal, and extraterrestrial phenomena. The UFO & Paranormal Research Society of Australia positions itself as a platform for reporting news and studies outside mainstream scientific endeavors, encouraging a broad, cross-disciplinary approach. There is a strong emphasis on personal experiences and beliefs, particularly highlighted in the President's and Vice President's reports, and in the discussion of Dr. Eben Alexander's NDE. The magazine also touches upon the challenges of researching controversial topics like alien abductions, the role of skepticism, and the importance of public inquiry in a democracy. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, seeking truth beyond conventional explanations, and fostering a community for those interested in these subjects.

This issue of UFO Research NSW delves into the complex subject of alien abductions, presenting a unique analogy and exploring the challenges of research and support for experiencers. It also features a report on a notable crop circle sighting.

The 'Veterinarian' Analogy and Informed Consent

The article begins by noting a historical moratorium on alien abduction research in the UK, contrasting it with global occurrences. It introduces the concept of viewing aliens not as 'angels' but as 'veterinarians' – beings trained to perform medical procedures. This analogy is presented as a way to simplify research by focusing on common attributes across various abduction accounts. The author draws parallels between medical procedures on humans and those performed by alien abductors, highlighting the evolution of 'informed consent' in modern medical practice. This concept, while new to 21st-century civilization, is contrasted with the past where patients often passively accepted medical interventions. The article suggests that understanding abductors as 'vets' simplifies research, especially when considering common practices like taking rectal temperatures, implying a non-divine, functional approach by the abductors.

It is emphasized that these encounters are not necessarily 'personal' or 'professional' in the human sense, but rather characterized by 'shock and awe.' Many alien abductors, or 'handlers,' use this shock and awe to ensure compliance from abductees for a series of encounters. The article touches upon the idea that abductors might be trying to obscure their activities, possibly because they perceive them as 'abusive' to modern sensibilities, drawing a stark comparison to Nazi tactics used to mask atrocities.

Experiencer Perceptions and Cultural Screening

The text explores how experiencers' perceptions can be influenced, sometimes leading to descriptions that are culturally screened. An example is given of an abductee describing an abductor as 'blue' when they were actually 'grey,' with 'blue' being her favorite color. Another case involves an abductor described as 'dark-brownish, like a negro,' but later clarified as 'grey,' resembling an elephant. The headdress in this instance was identified as medical head covering. These instances highlight how personal biases and familiar cultural references can shape the recall of abduction experiences.

The Role of Abductee Support Groups: UFOR(NSW)

The article details the history and challenges of UFOR(NSW), an organization dedicated to supporting alien abduction experiencers. The initial attempt to run an abductee research group in 1992 was a disaster, leading to its quick dissolution. The convenors regrouped as SIG Mark 2, shifting focus to a 'case-worker' model offering client support rather than research. This new model aimed to provide subsidized professional therapy for traumatized clients. However, disagreements within the UFOR(NSW) Committee led to a split, with a new independent organization forming to offer this support.

Years later, efforts to re-establish contact with those in the support program revealed mixed success. Therapists provided varied support without consistent approaches or specific guidelines for alien abductee cases. Clients were not always asked if the support was effective, and some felt their experiences were dismissed as unreal or attributed to fantasy-prone personalities. This approach is contrasted with modern research practices that tend to consider experiencer accounts as honest, citing the Betty and Barney Hill case as an example where suppressed memories caused long-term difficulties for Barney Hill.

Further attempts by UFOR(NSW) to conduct research, including a third attempt in the late 1990s and a fourth in mid-2003, also faced difficulties. These efforts were hampered by a lack of therapists, organizational problems, personality conflicts, and a loss of focus, preventing the establishment of a program that balanced support with research. The article notes that no abduction details were systematically gathered for collation, leading to a lost opportunity for research.

Research Methodologies and Challenges

The article discusses the inherent difficulties in researching rare phenomena like alien abductions, especially when trying to scale them up to a global level. A 1998 essay by Favaloro, Marx, and Delillo is cited, which calculated the logistical impossibility of a high percentage of the world's population being abducted annually, suggesting that 'real' numbers promoted by some investigators were too high. The lack of information generated from the Australian abductee support program is seen as a missed research opportunity.

Researchers are encouraged to 'Know the Veterinarians' better by seeking an 'averaged' view rather than relying solely on idiosyncratic individual accounts. While individual accounts are valuable, they can be influenced by familiar material from 'normal' lives, leading to edited experiences or the promotion of mystical dimensions to make the unthinkable seem more valid. The article stresses the need for researchers to assess groups of reports, find consistencies, and separate substantial phenomena from idiosyncratic elements. It acknowledges that each experiencer has a unique 'fingerprint,' but common elements across accounts, such as sequences of events and environments, can be averaged for research purposes.

Potential Alien Technologies and Future Research

One of the more intriguing aspects discussed is the potential for alien 'technologies.' An example from a UFOR(NSW) conference in the late 1990s describes abductors routinely floating into a room through a mirror. This phenomenon is linked to the Casimir effect, a concept with a potential scientific basis, and is supported by cultural and mythological references to entities appearing or disappearing through mirrors. The article suggests that improving the quality and veracity of abductee recollections is possible through suitably-designed research projects.

To achieve this, a structured process is proposed, involving a small group of facilitators, advertising the research project to invite experiencers, and a thorough vetting process. The proposed methodology includes interviewing/regressing participants on multiple occasions with different facilitators, collating data, providing feedback to participants, and making results known. The project would require significant time (2-3 years) and resources, aiming to provide a solid basis for further work and valuable feedback, offering a more 'human' perspective on alien interactions.

Crop Circle Report: Boorowa, NSW

The issue concludes with a report on a crop circle sighted in Boorowa, NSW, on November 23, 2012. Described as the most elegant crop circle known to have appeared in Australia, it is part of a catalogue of 71 reported crop circles in the country. The report notes the scarcity of images for Australian crop circles, mentioning earlier instances in Tully and Conondale (Queensland) and Tasmania. The Boorowa crop circle image is credited to micro-light pilot Ben Williams, and the standing centre image to Troy Byrne.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the nature of alien abductions, the challenges of researching anomalous phenomena, and the importance of developing effective support and research methodologies for experiencers. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, advocating for a more systematic and less sensationalized approach to understanding alien encounters, moving beyond 'shock and awe' to a more analytical perspective, and acknowledging the potential for advanced, albeit mysterious, technologies.

This document, likely an issue of a publication from the UFO & Paranormal Research Society of Australia (UFO-PRSA), focuses on crop circles, featuring a personal report, scientific research, and related media.

A Brief Report of My Visit to the Boorowa Property

The author recounts a visit to a property in Boorowa, Australia, hosting a crop circle. They spoke with the owners, Isabelle and David, who believed the circle was created by unknown persons vandalizing the field. The author, seeking permission to take plant and soil samples for the BLT Research Team, explained the phenomenon of crop circles. Isabelle admitted she and her husband had only seen images from the road and had not visited the site themselves. The author encouraged them to view aerial images, which showed no obvious signs of human contrivance. However, Isabelle conveyed that they had been harassed by phone calls and considered crop circles 'a load of rubbish.' Despite the author's empathy, they could not gain permission to visit, sample, or photograph the crop circle, leaving the author disappointed by the missed opportunity and the owners' lack of curiosity.

So...What Are Crop Circles?

This section defines crop circles as complex geometric imprints appearing in various crops worldwide during summer. The earliest reports date back to the early 1970s, with Colin Andrews in the UK beginning to document them in the mid-1970s, joined by Pat Delgado, Terence Meaden, and Busty Taylor. To date, approximately 12,000 crop circles have been archived globally, with images and reports available on www.cropcircleconnector.com. The average size ranges from 600 to 1,033 feet across, with Wiltshire, England, noted for its prolific and sophisticated designs, particularly in wheat.

Crop circles are created most commonly overnight, though some have appeared in daylight. An example cited is the 'Julia Set fractal crop circle' at Stonehenge, UK, in July 1996. The text emphasizes that while many theories exist, it is crucial to examine the physical evidence. The BLT Research Team, based in Cambridge, MA (www.bltresearch.com), is highlighted as conducting the most important research. In 1990, Pat Delgado collaborated with plant biophysicist Will Levengood, forming a team including John Burke and Nancy Talbott. Their primary focus is researching physical changes induced in plants, soils, and other materials at crop circle sites by the energy responsible for their creation.

BLT Research has collected samples from 300 crop circles across seven countries over eight years, finding consistent and anomalous features in plants and soil. These include elongation of apical nodes, expulsion cavities in nodes and seed heads, bending at nodes, and charring of plant stems. Samples are sent to consultants for specialized studies, such as X-Ray diffraction and clay mineralogy.

Typical changes to plant morphology in oilseed rape versus wheat

This section, accompanied by images, illustrates microscopic changes in plant cell walls and physical alterations in stems and nodes. It reiterates that BLT Research has proven a complex energy source is involved in crop circle creation, and the observed changes cannot be replicated by known natural or mechanical means. The text acknowledges that some crop circles are hoaxed but asserts that the discussed phenomena apply to a majority of non-hoaxed circles. A key distinction between hoaxed and non-hoaxed circles is that in non-hoaxed instances, plants recover and stand upright, a phenomenon particularly evident in barley, which recovers within a week, and wheat, which begins to stand upright by the end of the season. The Boorowa crop circle is mentioned as having standing crop in the center, forming an 'elegant flower design.'

A Word About Hoaxing

This section directly addresses the methods used by self-proclaimed hoaxers, such as stomping boards to flatten crops. It questions how this method can explain phenomena like plants in canola fields being bent 90 degrees above the ground, parallel to it, with delicate flower heads unharmed, which has been scientifically proven not to be the case. The text implies that stomping boards are insufficient to explain all crop circle formations.

Megan Heazlewood

Megan Heazlewood is presented with a picture of herself in a crop circle in Weyland Smithy, UK, in 2006. She states that the information provided barely scratches the surface of the crop circle phenomenon and offers her availability for public talks. She announces an upcoming speaking engagement on January 11th at Goulburn Town Hall, Australia, and provides contact details via email ([email protected]) and phone (0414759918).

Eerie Encounters

This section, under the banner 'EERIE ENCOUNTERS' and associated with UFO-PRSA, discusses video production for a series dramatizing paranormal events. The director, Dominic, expresses disappointment with past production limitations but notes improvements through better software and the recent purchase of a new video camera with advanced low-light and low-noise capabilities. This camera integrates seamlessly with 24P editing. Aaron Bishop also has a similar unit, allowing for multi-angle HD recording. The series aims for higher quality with controlled lighting in the future, requiring more crew members. Attending members are encouraged to register their interest for appearances or crew work with Larraine, Kellie, or Dominic.

Further details are provided about the 'Eerie Encounters' series DVDs. Disc One is available for $20.00. Disc Two, also $20, contains Episodes 3 ('Shadow people') and 4 ('Superman'). These episodes dramatize strange and bizarre events investigated by the UFO & Paranormal Research Society of Australia, focusing on a family's experiences over many years. The Society investigates paranormal events and selects stand-out cases for dramatization without embellishment. The running time for Disc 2 is 45 minutes. The website ufosociety.net.au is provided for reporting paranormal events or sightings.

Community Advertising

This section contains advertisements for various services:

• Rossmore Florist: Offering flowers for all occasions, deliveries across the street or worldwide. Contact details and website provided.
• Facebook: An invitation to add the 'UFO & Paranormal Research Society of Australia' as a friend on Facebook for updates.
• Elizabeth's Crystal Garden: Selling crystals, with contact details for Elizabeth Thorn, website, and eBay store.
• Michelle Usnik Family Research: Offering family history research services, including full family or single member research, printed histories, presentation pedigree charts, printed biographies, and gift certificates.
• DC Lee Productions: Specializing in web videos, promos, slideshows, and advertising videos, with contact email provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are crop circles, paranormal investigations, and the challenges of documenting and presenting such phenomena. The editorial stance, particularly from the BLT Research Team and the 'Eerie Encounters' production, emphasizes a commitment to scientific investigation, evidence-based research, and the pursuit of understanding unexplained events, while acknowledging the existence of hoaxes and the need for rigorous methodology. The UFO-PRSA appears to be the overarching organization, promoting research, media production, and community engagement on these topics.