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Probe Report Volume 4 Issue 1
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Title: THE PROBE REPORT Issue: Vol 4: No 1 Date: JULY 1983 Publisher: PROBE UFO INVESTIGATION ORGANISATION Country: ENGLAND ISSN: 0260-8189 Editor: Ian Mrzyglod
Magazine Overview
Title: THE PROBE REPORT
Issue: Vol 4: No 1
Date: JULY 1983
Publisher: PROBE UFO INVESTIGATION ORGANISATION
Country: ENGLAND
ISSN: 0260-8189
Editor: Ian Mrzyglod
Editorial and Publication Status
The editorial for this issue carries a somber announcement: The Probe Report is to cease publication with the October 1983 issue (Volume 4, Number 2) due to insurmountable financial difficulties. The editor, Ian Mrzyglod, takes responsibility for the journal's skeptical stance and critical editorials, which he believes alienated potential supporters. He reflects that rational investigation and a lack of sensationalism, while earning TPR a reputation for being a sensible and useful journal, were financially detrimental. Despite the closure, Mrzyglod expresses gratitude to past supporters and announces that he will be editing a new journal for BUFORA, titled 'The BUFORA PROBE', which will essentially continue The Probe Report's format and standard, starting in January 1984. Subscribers with outstanding issues will receive 'The BUFORA PROBE' until their subscriptions expire. However, to continue receiving it, membership in BUFORA will be required. The journal also notes that PROBE can no longer accept subscriptions and is only accepting orders for the final issue.
Main Feature: Spotlight on 'Project Identification'
The cover story, 'Spotlight on Project Identification', appears to be a broad theme encompassing several investigations and discussions. A significant portion of the issue is dedicated to the Rendlesham Forest incident, with contributions from various investigators offering different perspectives and critiques.
Rendlesham Forest Incident: SCUFORI's Investigation
The article 'Rendlesham Revisited' from a previous issue is discussed, with gratitude expressed to the SCUFORI team for their careful examination of the story. They are credited with assisting the pursuit of truth and being among the few British investigators willing to thoroughly examine cases. However, the piece notes that SCUFORI's findings, while valuable, are limited by the case's age and the difficulty of obtaining definitive evidence. The article suggests that while Brenda Butler and Dot Street, the primary investigators, have applied their skills diligently, they may have been too close to the case to see the broader picture, hence the need for an objective overview provided by SCUFORI.
Jenny Randles' Critique and SCUFORI's Response
Jenny Randles contributes a letter to the editor, questioning the findings of SCUFORI and Mark Brown's investigation into the Brockworth case. She argues that Brown did not find a rational answer or corroboration and criticizes the lack of detail in the report, such as the car's engine failure and the farm's layout. Randles also suggests that the object could have been ball lightning.
SCUFORI responds to Randles' critique, defending their investigation into the Rendlesham Forest case. They state that their article in The Probe Report accurately reflects their findings and opinions. SCUFORI emphasizes their methodical approach and their dissatisfaction with the lack of conclusive evidence, even months later. They acknowledge the difficulty of conducting unbiased investigations due to the passage of time and expense. SCUFORI clarifies their role was not to debunk but to offer an objective overview, and they express a belief that Brenda Butler was somewhat hostile towards their presence, possibly resenting their 'intrusion' into her case.
SCUFORI addresses specific points raised by Brenda Butler:
1. Landing Site: SCUFORI disputes the location provided by Dot Street, stating it was not where their investigation took place, and questions the forestry men's map. They note that Dot Street seemed to know the airbase's exact position relative to the site, suggesting prior visits.
2. Men-in-Black: SCUFORI agrees with Brenda Butler that there was no evidence of 'Men-in-Black' visitors when they interviewed the farmer. They note that only Dot Street and her companion had discussed the matter with him.
3. Animal Disturbances: No comment is made on this point.
4. Effects on the Car: SCUFORI apologizes for incorrectly stating Brenda's car had a rev-counter. They maintain that the car's speed claims are questionable given the lane's poor condition and the difficulty they experienced driving at much lower speeds. They also suggest Brenda's dog's health condition was mentioned in previous reports, and they did not ask directly about it, but Brenda did not deny it.
SCUFORI concludes by stating they stand by their findings, having nothing to gain from falsifying reports. They view their contribution as an 'outsider's opinion' on several aspects of the event.
Brenda Butler's Rebuttal
Brenda Butler writes to defend her investigation into the Rendlesham Forest case, stating that half of what SCUFORI printed is untrue. She refutes SCUFORI's information sources and details her own findings:
1. Landing Site: Butler asserts the UFO did not land where the four SCUFORI investigators went. She claims the witness showed her the correct landing site, which was not in the photographs. She criticizes Dot Street's reliance on forestry men for map information.
2. Men-in-Black: Butler questions Jenny Randles' 'Men-in-Black' theory, stating the farmer she visited could not recall any such visitors.
3. Animal Disturbances: No comment.
4. Effects on the Car: Butler denies her car has a rev-counter and states it is not old or shaky, having passed its MOT test. She invites SCUFORI to test drive her car, which she claims can reach 85 mph without shaking. She also denies her dog has a heart condition.
Butler explains her decision to release the story: she kept quiet for five weeks as requested by the witness but released it after hearing the same story from a forestry worker. She asserts this did not betray confidence. She defends her credentials as a UFO investigator, citing experience since 1967 and work with newspapers and magazines in the USA, claiming to have more files than a full-time investigator. She criticizes SCUFORI for not asking more questions and for potentially fabricating details.
Butler also mentions that the story has appeared in several US magazines with follow-up reports confirming the landing. She notes that a retired officer living in the USA has reportedly come forward and confirmed the story, with checks indicating he was on the Woodbridge base at the time. She concludes that while the case might be a social rumor, a primary event is indicated.
Other Articles and Correspondence
The 'Oz Factor' Explained
Jenny Randles writes an article titled 'Taking Steps Down the Yellow Brick Road', explaining her concept of the 'Oz Factor'. She describes it as a collection of symptoms regularly expressed by UFO witnesses, indicating a distortion in sensory reality where normal laws seem suspended. Examples include ambient sounds vanishing, time stretching, and a feeling of inner calm. Randles developed this concept from her work on UFO close encounters, finding it a common feature. She distinguishes between UFOs (characterized by subjectivity) and UAPs (Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena, which are physical and trackable). Randles posits a 'spectrum of reality' ranging from objective to subjective, influenced by psychological factors, dreams, and consciousness.
The George Adamski Case
Raymond E. Cox discusses the George Adamski case and other related sightings, including the 1939 'bell-like UFO' and the Scoriton Mystery. He suggests that UFOs may not be strictly objective or subjective but could involve psychic factors and the mind's role in shaping experiences. Cox questions whether stories can be false while photos are real, or vice versa, and notes that the Adamski case remains open to interpretation.
UFO Photography Analysis: The Maxine Gaffney Case
An article details the analysis of a photograph taken by teenager Maxine Gaffney, which appeared to show a flying saucer. Brian Everton of BUFOS presented the photograph to their analyst, Michael Hall. Hall's report concluded that the object was not a UFO but a reflection image of a room light, likely taken through a window. The analysis identified faint images on the horizon and to the left of the photograph, consistent with reflections of people. The article labels this a 'CASE CLOSED'.
Criticism of BUFORA and 'Men-in-Black' Content
Anthony R. Pace writes a critical letter, calling The Probe Report an 'insult to the intelligence of anyone with a serious interest in UFO research'. He criticizes the inclusion of 'worn out and childish "men-in-Black" crap' and expresses disappointment in BUFORA's direction, particularly the quality of their journal 'J-TAP'. Pace argues that BUFORA should prioritize serious UFO research and a professional approach over maintaining a 'Resources Centre' filled with what he deems 'trash-can' material.
The editor responds to Pace's criticism, defending the inclusion of the 'Men-in-Black' case as a serious investigation that uncovered the source of MIB messages. He argues that The Probe Report is a journal of UFO investigation, not strictly a research journal, and that the MIB case could lend itself to research. He also defends the content-wise quality of 'J-TAP' over its 'professional-looking' appearance.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the challenges of UFO investigation, the nature of evidence, and the subjective versus objective aspects of paranormal phenomena. The editorial stance, as articulated by Ian Mrzyglod, is one of critical skepticism and a commitment to rational inquiry, even at the cost of popularity. The issue highlights the difficulties in distinguishing between genuine phenomena and psychological factors, misinterpretations, or hoaxes. The closure of The Probe Report signifies the end of an era for a publication that prioritized depth and critical analysis over sensationalism in the field of UFO investigation.
This issue of PROBE REPORT, dated March/April 1981, features a collection of articles that explore various facets of the UFO phenomenon, with a particular focus on the Warminster sightings and alternative explanations for unexplained aerial phenomena.
Articles
The 'OZ Factor' and the Nature of UFO Experiences by Harley Rutledge Ph.D.
Rutledge proposes a 'spectrum of reality' where subjective and objective experiences blend. He introduces the concept of 'Quasi-Conscious Experience' (QC Experience), which he equates with UFO Close Encounters. He argues that these are consciousness events, potentially triggered by objective stimuli, and that the 'OZ Factor' is a symptom of this experience, observed in various paranormal phenomena. Rutledge criticizes the tendency to dismiss UFOs as mere hallucinations and emphasizes the importance of studying them as a consciousness event.
UFOS: A PHENOMENON OF NATURE by Harley Rutledge Ph.D.
Rutledge responds to criticisms from Steuart Campbell and Jenny Randles regarding his book 'Project Identification'. He defends his research methodology and findings, particularly concerning UFO sightings in southeast Missouri. He addresses the hypothesis that ball lightning (BL) or Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena (UAP) could explain UFO reports, but argues that the observed behaviors of UFOs suggest intelligence, invalidating these natural explanations. Rutledge details his seven-year field study, noting apparent UFO reactions to observers and equipment, and concludes that intelligence was involved.
IN DEFENCE OF EARTH LIGHTS by Paul Devereux
Devereux defends his book 'Earth Lights' against a critical review by Steuart Campbell. He refutes claims about his co-researcher and challenges Campbell's interpretations of geological data related to UFO sightings and stone circles. Devereux asserts the significance of geological factors, such as fault lines, in the occurrence of unexplained atmospheric phenomena and argues that UFOs may be part of this family of phenomena. He also discusses the mystery of vitrified forts and the potential for piezoelectricity in rocks to generate lights.
MY WARMINSTER UFOS by Bob Boyd
Bob Boyd shares his personal UFO experiences, particularly those related to Warminster. He recounts several significant sightings, including a black triangle, a silver ball, and a white cigar-shaped object. Boyd suggests that UFOs are not necessarily machines from other planets but may be related to the 'soul of Man' or mystical experiences. He details a specific Warminster sighting where he and a companion observed a spinning object with windows, which he interpreted as a 'vision' rather than a physical craft. Boyd also shares personal anecdotes of extraordinary coincidences that reinforce his belief in a mystical dimension to life and UFOs.
THE WARMINSTER CASEBOOK by Ian Mrzyglod
Mrzyglod critically examines photographs submitted as evidence of Warminster UFOs. He discusses a case involving a farmer's photographs that were initially promoted as clear UFO discs but were later identified as developing faults. Mrzyglod highlights the tendency for UFO stories and photographs to be manufactured or misidentified, particularly in the context of Warminster. He suggests that the over-eagerness of some researchers and the lack of critical analysis contributed to the proliferation of dubious evidence.
Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance
The issue consistently questions conventional explanations for UFO phenomena, leaning towards more complex or even mystical interpretations. There is a strong emphasis on personal experience and subjective evidence, particularly in Boyd's article. The editorial stance, as implied by the selection of articles and the editor's notes, appears to be open to unconventional theories and critical of purely skeptical or materialistic explanations. The articles collectively suggest that UFOs may be more than just misidentified aircraft or natural phenomena, hinting at psychological, consciousness-based, or even mystical dimensions.
This document consists of book reviews from a publication focused on UFOs and paranormal phenomena. The issue number is 19, and it is printed in England.
Book Reviews
THE PENNINE UFO MYSTERY This review covers Jenny Randles' book, 'The Pennine UFO Mystery,' published by Granada. The book is described as a detective thriller cataloging UFO events in the Pennines of northern England, starting with 'mystery helicopter' sightings in 1973-74, including the Todmorden Zigmund Adamski 'UFO death' case and the P.C. Alan Godfrey 'UFO abduction' of 1980. The reviewer notes the extensive research by the Manchester UFO Research Association (NUFORA) and other organizations. The book builds a case by connecting seemingly disparate sightings into patterns, but it does not offer a definitive answer, leaving interpretation to the reader. The reviewer highlights a difference of opinion between investigators, particularly contrasting Harry Harris's belief in alien intelligence with Jenny Randles' more plausible theory. Harris's assertion that UFOs are 'nuts and bolts vehicles of unknown origin' is met with skepticism by the reviewer, who questions the validity of legal practice in vindicating personal beliefs.
Jenny Randles' theory is presented as fascinating and more plausible, suggesting similarities between Pennine cases and others that previously went unnoticed. The reviewer praises Randles' approach but refrains from detailing the theory to preserve the 'detective fun' of the book.
INTO THE UNKNOWN Edited by Will Bradbury and published by The Reader's Digest Association, 'Into the Unknown' is a hardcover book covering a vast array of topics. The review praises its comprehensive nature and excellent illustrations, particularly its section on UFOs titled 'Enigma of UFOs.' This section features the Frederick Valentich pilot disappearance and the Kaikoura lights, referencing Dr. Bruce Maccabee's work. It also touches upon natural explanations for UFO sightings, witness perception, the Ancient Astronaut theory, WIBs, landing traces, and other UFO study areas. While well-informed, the coverage is necessarily brief. Beyond UFOs, the book explores Voodoo, the Loch Ness Monster, horoscopes, Charles Fort, ghosts, and ESP. The reviewer considers it one of the best compendiums of its kind, offering good value for its price of £12.95, especially compared to other hardcover books.
THE GREEN STONE and THE SWORD AND THE STONE These two publications, 'The Green Stone' by Graham Phillips and Martin Keatman, and 'The Sword and the Stone' by Andrew Collins (part of The Supernaturalist series), are reviewed together as they cover the same subject matter. 'The Green Stone' details events from late 1979 into 1981, stemming from psychic messages received by Graham Phillips from a source named 'Joanna,' and other psychic input from Marion and Gaynor Sunderland. These messages led to a 'psychic treasure-hunt' to recover a lost green stone and a sword associated with Mary Queen of Scots. The stone is believed to have belonged to the Egyptian pharaoh Akhenaten, who promoted monotheism. The narrative continues with the stone being brought to Britain by refugees and used by a Celtic warrior-queen, Gwevaraugh, who passed down occult knowledge. This is linked to the legend of Queen Guinevere and the Arthurian legend. The story also involves the Knights Templars, the Gunpowder Plot, and an illegal Catholic militia, culminating in a race against time to recover the stone.
The reviewer, Geoff Bird, notes that 'The Green Stone' describes subsequent events, including the 'recharging' of the stone through 'Nine Lights of Knowledge' and its use to defeat evil. He mentions the downfall of the Order of Meonia in the 19th century due to a black magician named John Laing. Bird acknowledges that such tales can be dismissed as nonsense but states that his own experiences with the Andy Collins/Graham Phillips group confirm that 'things do happen' and that certain individuals possess pronounced psychic abilities. He asserts that the described artifacts were found and were not products of imagination. He urges readers to consider Jenny Randles' introduction to 'The Green Stone' and compare the events to those in the Old and New Testaments, suggesting that denial without proof is an 'admission of defeat.'
A footnote by 'IM' raises questions about the Green Stone saga. IM notes the limited number of people claiming to have seen the artifacts and their power, questioning why there aren't more witnesses if the events are current. IM also points out that the cover of 'The Green Stone' features an artist's impression because the stone could not be photographed, which casts doubt on its existence and scientific anomaly. IM calls for clarification on these points.
THE RUNNING WELL MYSTERY This review covers Andrew Collins' booklet, 'The Running Well Mystery,' issue 3 of The Supernaturalist series. It details research by Collins and the Earthquest group into the folklore and legends of Runwell, an Essex parish reputed to be haunted. The name 'Runwell' is explored, possibly deriving from 'Run' (tree-trunk) or 'Rune' (secret/mystery). The booklet discusses the 'Devil's Claw' legend, where Satan pursued an evil priest, leaving a claw mark. Research into the village's ecclesiastical history uncovered a manuscript by a former vicar, leading to the discovery of an old well and the mysterious Runwell Cross. The mystery was apparently solved using research and psychic methods, relating to the landscape geometry of the area. The reviewer commends the booklet as a valuable example of what a dedicated group can achieve.
UFOS: EVIDENCE FOR THE REALITY... This review discusses 'UFOs: Evidence for the Reality...' by William L. Moore and Stanton T. Friedman. The reviewer finds it to be a useful but repetitive publication, covering familiar ground in its early sections. It discusses the possibility of life on other planets and warns about government secrecy, particularly concerning UFOs in the US. The book presents evidence for the existence of UFOs and their long-term presence. It includes strong criticism of Project Blue Book for being a public relations cover-up. The review notes that the authors focus on NORAD and Freedom of Information Act efforts to obtain documents, highlighting a significant search fee requested for certain documents, which supports allegations of government reluctance to release information that could alter public knowledge of UFOs. The reviewer suggests the document caters more to those interested in cover-up theories but is still an enjoyable read for ufologists.
William L. Moore Publications & Research also offers a list of available publications, including Kal Korff's expose of the Pleiades contact case and Dr. Bruce Maccabee's investigation into the McMinnville photos.