Project Red Book vol 4 no 5

Magazine Overview

Title: PROJECT RED BOOK
Issue: Vol.4 #5
Date: November 2000
Publisher: YUFOS YORKSHIRE UFO SOCIETY
Country: United Kingdom
Price: £1:50

This issue of Project Red Book, published by YUFOS, features a humorous and attention-grabbing cover with a caption about the illustrator being abducted. The magazine delves into various aspects of UFO and paranormal research, with a significant portion dedicated to an in-depth interview with Gloria Dixon.

An Interview with Gloria Dixon

The interview with Gloria Dixon, national investigations co-ordinator for BUFORA and editor of 'Strange Daze', explores her background and her views on the UFO subject. She discusses her early interest, sparked by her father's work in aeronautics and her reading of 'Project Blue Book'. Dixon notes the male dominance in ufology but observes that women tend to report more high strangeness cases like abductions. She believes men's fascination with space and technology contributes to their interest, while women are increasingly recognizing their potential contributions. Dixon also highlights the unique dimension a female researcher's viewpoint can bring, particularly in exotic claims and understanding subtle issues behind witness accounts.

She recounts her journey into ufology in 1990, joining BUFORA and the Independent UFO Network (IUN), and attending conferences where she encountered 'strange conversations'. Dixon shares her initial experiences with cases, including a shared dreamlike experience in Redcar and a case documented in Philip Mantle's 'Without Consent'. She discusses her 'heroes' in the field, citing Jenny Randles, Timothy Good, Jacques Vallee, and John Keel, while expressing skepticism towards the extraterrestrial hypothesis for some cases, particularly those involving alleged physical evidence.

Dixon also addresses criticisms of BUFORA, suggesting they are sometimes unjustified and fueled by rumor, especially given the organization's voluntary and under-funded nature. She expresses a strong dislike for the 'politics' and 'back-stabbing' within the UFO community, preferring to focus on research. Regarding unexplained cases, she acknowledges that many fall into the paranormal category and that some, like the Windwhistle Hill case and a Scottish case involving a shared dreamlike experience, remain puzzling.

On alien abductions, Dixon states that while many people have extraordinary experiences, she sees no definitive proof. She points out the problems with using regression hypnosis for memory retrieval and suggests that the 'alien abduction' narrative may be a modern interpretation of ancient fears and beliefs, influenced by science fiction and media portrayals.

She clarifies that her publication, 'Strange Daze', is not purely a UFO magazine but explores a broader range of extraordinary human experiences, including ghosts, near-death experiences, and consciousness studies. Dixon has not personally had a UFO sighting but has experienced paranormal phenomena.

Other Articles and Features

• Contents Page (Page 2): Lists the articles in this issue, including:
• An Interview with Gloria Dixon
• Exploitations of the Alien Kind (Jon Slater on aliens and UFOs in the media)
• Russian Military Declassify UFOs? (Victor Romanchenko)
• Frederick Valentich Update (Bill Chalker)
• The "Mexborough Footage"- update
• UFOs-The Key Turning Point (Bill Booker)
• From Around the World (Hunters Encounter Huge UFO, Fireball encounters curiosity, Spontaneous Fires in Inuique)
• Recent Reports (Rotherham lights, and Mansfield discs)

Contact Information: The magazine provides contact details for YUFOS, including address, phone number, email, and website. Subscription details are also listed.

Editorial and Staff: The issue identifies Dave Baker as Editor and Chairman, Richard Moss as Web-master and Group-secretary, and Ian Gregory for cover illustration and printing. Contributions are listed from various individuals, and research credits are given to several names.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the Editor, YUFOS members, or anyone else.

Haunted Realm Website: Information is provided for the Haunted Realm website and UFOIN.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently focuses on UFO sightings, investigations, and related paranormal phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on presenting research, case studies, and interviews with prominent figures in the field. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, with a critical yet respectful approach to claims, particularly regarding alien abduction. The publication seems to value detailed investigation and the sharing of information within the UFO community, while also acknowledging the controversies and 'politics' that can arise. The inclusion of diverse topics, from media portrayals of aliens to specific case updates and international reports, indicates a broad scope within the UFO research landscape.

Title: PRB
Issue: Vol. 4, #5
Date: November 2000
Publisher: PRB
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of PRB, titled "Exploitations of the Alien Kind," explores the pervasive influence of alien imagery in popular culture and media, examines specific UFO cases, and touches upon scientific discoveries related to space.

Exploitations of the Alien Kind by Jonathan Slater (YUFOS)

The lead article by Jonathan Slater posits a theory that commercial advertisers, in conjunction with governments, are subtly introducing alien imagery into mainstream culture. This propaganda, he suggests, aims to desensitize the public to the idea of extraterrestrial life, making it seem like innocent fun, as seen in advertisements for instant potatoes and programs like "The X-Files." Slater argues that this constant bombardment of alien imagery, from Argos catalogues and Index catalogues to specific merchandise like alien lamps and photo frames, prepares society for a potential future encounter. He notes the ubiquitizing of the "Grey" alien image and even points to the re-imagining of E.T. as a character living in England, suggesting commercial interests have influenced even fictional portrayals. The article also highlights the use of alien themes in music, citing David Bowie and the Foo Fighters, and lists a top ten chart of alien-themed songs. Slater questions whether this widespread alien imagery is a deliberate plan or merely a marketing gimmick, concluding that "the truth is out there."

Sensation: The Russian Military Declassified Its UFO Archive!

This section, e-mailed to YUFOS from Victor Romanchenko of the Sumy City Youth Society, reports on a Russian TV program, "Voyennaya taina" ("Military secret"), that revealed the declassification of a significant portion of the Russian military's UFO archive. The program showcased secret lists of UFO observations on military bases, orders for UFO surveillance, and videotapes of strange objects. A leading expert from the Ministry of Defence confirmed the existence of a military center dedicated to gathering UFO information, established in 1980 near Mytishi, northeast of Moscow. The military's stated purpose for gathering this information is the development of new weapons. Romanchenko expresses surprise at this declassification from the Russian military, given the historical secrecy of the USSR, and hopes it signals a global trend of governments uncovering UFO information.

Frederick Valentich Update by Bill Chalker

This article provides an update on the controversial disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich. New evidence, including witness accounts of a green light surrounding his Cessna, has emerged, lending support to the theory that Valentich may have inadvertently turned 180 degrees during his encounter and crashed into the sea near Apollo Bay. Investigators, including Richard Haines and Paul Norman of the Victorian UFO Research Society, are calling for an undersea search. Valentich's mother, Alberta, has long hoped for a resolution. The article mentions that oceanographer Jacques Cousteau had previously sought government permission to search for the aircraft but was refused. It also touches upon speculation ranging from freak weather to UFO abduction and even secret military weapons tests.

Fresh Light on UFO Riddle (The Mercury (Tasmania))

This shorter piece reiterates the findings from the Valentich update, focusing on the new eyewitness accounts of a green light and the identification of a likely crash site in Bass Strait. It mentions former NASA scientist Richard Haines's theory involving secret military weapons tests and notes that Valentich's disappearance occurred on October 21, 1978.

UFO Mystery Revived (11 Oct 2000 Australia)

This brief report also covers the new evidence in the Frederick Valentich case, highlighting fresh eyewitness accounts of a green light and the potential crash site in Bass Strait. It notes that Valentich's radio calls to Melbourne airport were recorded before his disappearance.

Hunters Encounter Huge UFO (Sally Sturrock, October 17, 2000)

This article details an encounter by four hunters in Idaho who witnessed a huge, silent, triangular UFO overhead. The object, described as being the size of a football field, had rounded corners and a distinct texture. It emitted a whining sound, and lights appeared on its ventral surface, including three subdued white lights at the corners and a prominent red strobing light in the middle. The object moved away slowly and silently, ascending a nearby mountain. The hunters described its movement as "like a hockey puck gliding over ice." Military jet fighters were later seen flying down the valley where the UFO had flown.

Fireball Ignites Scientific Curiosity

This report, based on BBC News Online, discusses a meteorite recovered from Tagish Lake in Canada, which scientists believe could be one of the most primitive Solar System objects ever studied. The meteorite fell on January 18, 2000, with a bright fireball seen across a wide area. Its fragments, recovered while still frozen, are being studied for organic compounds that might have been building blocks of life. The Tagish Lake meteorite is a carbonaceous chondrite, a rare type that has not been significantly altered by heating, allowing researchers to study the primordial material that formed the Sun and planets. Analysis suggests it originated from the asteroid belt and contains nanodiamonds, particles from the interstellar medium. It is considered highly significant, comparable to the Allende and Murchison meteorites. Eyewitness accounts of the fireball, including descriptions of sulphurous smells and an "electrophonic effect" (sound produced by the fireball), are also being analyzed.

UFOs - The Key Turning Point (Part 5) by W.H. Booker (YUFOS)

This installment of a series delves into fundamental physics concepts relevant to understanding UFOs. Booker discusses speed, time, light, and vision, noting how our perception can be limited. He then explores gravity, suggesting it might involve "gravitational waves" or "gravitons." The article explains atomic structure, with electrons revolving around the nucleus, and discusses the atomic weights of various elements. Booker speculates about manipulating electron flow through magnetic fields and the potential for "reverse" electron flow. He touches upon static electricity, its generation through friction, and how it's held by Earth's magnetic field. The author connects these concepts to UFOs, suggesting that understanding space, time, speed, and gravity is crucial. He also discusses the immense scale of the Milky Way and the forces involved in circular motion, questioning why objects are not flung off into space. The article concludes by pondering the possibility of detecting minute variations in gravity and suggests that gravity might be a combination of Earth's magnetic field and static electrical forces.

Residents Shocked at Seeing Two UFO

This short report describes residents of Taman Cheras Utama witnessing two revolving objects emitting bright light for half an hour. A group praying at the An-Noor mosque also saw an oval-shaped object, described as a "moving grey cloud," which they believed to be a sign from Allah. The object vanished at 6:30 AM.

Spontaneous Fires in Iquique

This article, sourced from El Mercurio, details a series of seven spontaneous fires in a building in Iquique, Chile, attributed to paranormal phenomena. Occupants reported objects moving on their own, and firemen described hearing cries and the sound of chains. The events are occurring in an old wooden house associated with a century-old sorcerer.

A Possible Planet Free-Floating in Orion

This report, based on BBC News Online, discusses the discovery of 18 planet-like objects drifting in the constellation of Orion. These "free floaters" challenge current theories of planet formation, as they lack a central star and appear to have a different origin and evolution. The objects were detected using telescopes in Spain, the Canary Islands, and Hawaii. Spectrographic analysis confirmed they are cool, with planet-like temperatures, and their estimated masses are within the range for planets. The discovery raises questions about the formation and evolution of planetary-mass objects outside the Solar System.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the pervasive influence of alien imagery in media and advertising, the ongoing mystery and investigation of UFO sightings (particularly the Frederick Valentich case), and the potential for government disclosure of UFO information. There's also a focus on scientific exploration, from meteorite analysis to the discovery of exoplanets. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, encouraging the exchange of information among researchers globally and presenting both anecdotal accounts and scientific findings. The magazine seems to advocate for a serious consideration of UFOs, moving beyond mere speculation to explore evidence and potential explanations, while also acknowledging the role of science in understanding the universe.

Title: The Haunted Realm
Issue: Vol. 4, #5
Date: November 2000
Publisher: Badger Publications
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of 'The Haunted Realm' presents a collection of paranormal and historical accounts, blending contemporary UFO sightings with deeply rooted folklore and historical investigations into witchcraft and superstition.

Recent UFO Reports

The section on 'Recent UFO Reports' details two cases received by YUFOS (Yorkshire UFO Society) prior to the publication of this month's issue. The first report, from Rotherham, describes a bright yellowish object observed on October 5th at around 6:50-6:55 pm. The witness, whose family was present, initially mistook it for a star but noted it was hovering above the horizon. The object moved eastward and downwards, and the witness managed to film it with a camcorder. During the filming, other commercial aircraft or helicopters without lights were observed in the lens, appearing close to the object, and notably, they did not reflect light. The object then disappeared below the horizon. Approximately ten minutes later, it reappeared, moving upward at a much faster speed. As it ascended high into the twilight, the light suddenly went out, revealing a grey object for a split second before it disappeared completely. The witness provided a still frame from the video, which shows a bright yellowish 'ball'. The article notes that while it initially resembles a reflection from an aircraft, the claimed movements are inconsistent with an aircraft. The possibility of a bird reflecting sunlight is also considered, especially given the description of the light suddenly going out and a grey object appearing. The witness had posted the video online, but the author was unable to download and view it.

A second UFO case, from Mansfield, Woodhouse, Notts, occurred on November 9th, 1999, at 9:15 am. This sighting was passed on by Dr. David Clarke, a YUFOS correspondent. The witness, John, a retired school-teacher, described a semi-circular object, low in the sky, moving slowly over the residential area. He likened its appearance to a 'tambourine' at an angle, with a hollow white ring and yellowy-white lights on the rim. The object did not appear to be spinning. John attempted to film it with his camcorder but was only gone for about twenty seconds, during which time the object vanished. He noted the sky was clear and there was no cloud cover for it to hide behind. After the sighting, John reported that his eyes felt 'funny', similar to experiencing an eclipse, as if someone had shone a torch into them. He was particularly struck by the apparent size of the object, estimating it to be about the size of a large aircraft if it was a mile away, and potentially much larger if further away. He explicitly stated it did not look like an aircraft or balloon.

A Ghost Story for Halloween: Visitaions

This extensive article by Philip John Parkin delves into historical accounts of 'bewitchment' and 'demonic visitations', primarily focusing on the period between 1500-1800 in Britain, with a particular emphasis on the early modern period. Doctor David Paxman's research into ergot poisoning is presented as a potential explanation for some of these phenomena.

Ergot, a fungus affecting rye, can cause symptoms like convulsions, hallucinations, and a feeling of needles beneath the skin. The article explores whether these symptoms, when interpreted as demonic intrusions, could be mistaken for bewitchment caused by witches. Dr. Paxman investigated diary records from a preacher named Luke Coates in Kings Lynn, written in the 1660s, to build a framework for understanding these historical events.

The narrative then shifts to a specific account from harvest time in 1666 in Kings Lynn, Norfolk. It describes a peasant farmer named Jacob and his wife Ellen. The story then moves to a bull that was believed to be possessed by the devil, exhibiting convulsions and attacking a tree, which was interpreted as a sign of bewitchment. This event, along with other perceived 'hideous visitations', led the local community, including the Lord of the Manor, George Townshend, and magistrate Mr Tobias Gregson, to seek a solution.

The story then introduces Alice, who experiences violent convulsions, visions, and agitation, described as 'demonic intrusions'. Her symptoms are interpreted as a sign of witchcraft. Mark Harvey, the Witchfinder General, is dispatched from Norwich to investigate. The article details the fear and respect he commanded.

It then recounts the story of Ruth, who lived with her brother John and his wife Nellie. John was an alchemist. Ruth was seen by magistrates' daughter Jane mixing a potion in a cauldron. This led to Ruth's arrest, trial, and conviction for witchcraft in Kings Lynn. She was bound to a stake and burned. Nellie suffered the same fate a week later.

The narrative then shifts to Kings Lynn in Autumn 1667, noting a good rye harvest. It mentions that the weather had been drier in the preceding four seasons. The story then revisits the events of 1666, noting that Alice's 'demons' had been exorcised by Reverend Luke Coates. Doctor Paxman reflects on these historical accounts, considering the possibility of ergot poisoning and the societal tendency to use individuals as scapegoats for social ills. He concludes that the Enlightenment period (1687-1789) improved societal fortunes and reduced the use of scapegoats.

Further historical context is provided by Reverend Ebenezer Sykes' diary from Essex, which documented cases of 'bewitchment' or 'demonic visitation'. Local jail records also show instances of individuals accused of witchcraft. The article also references an entry from December 5, 1666, from Stonehampton, detailing the cure of five cases of bewitchment through religious means.

Haunted Roads on the Isle of Man: The Phantom Death Coach

This section, written by John Hall, presents a collection of folklore-related tales from the Isle of Man. The first tale focuses on 'The Phantom Death Coach', described as a traditional haunting phenomenon where a horse-drawn coach with a headless driver and black steeds races along mountain roads, collecting souls and vanishing by crashing or tumbling over a ravine. The story mentions the coach being seen and heard regularly on the road towards Dalby from the direction of South Barrule mountain crossroads. Seeing or meeting the coach was considered unfortunate, signalling an early demise. The description is based on accounts from two women who saw 'something like a funeral coach with waving plumes with a moving body of blackness'. The article notes similarities to other reported hauntings, such as those at Longendale valley and Borley church yard, and suggests it might be related to shape-shifting agencies responsible for hauntings along roads to Glenmaye and Peel, and at Mountain Pillars.

Spooked Mum Claims Council House is Haunted

This article features Sarah Williams, a 26-year-old mother from Mansfield, Notts, who claims her council house is haunted. She is urging her local council to move her due to a series of spooky incidents witnessed by her and her eight-year-old daughter, Lyndsey. Despite attempts to cleanse the house, the problems persist. Sarah states that her daughter has been experiencing nightmares after seeing a 'ghost - a man, dressed in black' in the spare bedroom. Since then, items have fallen off shelves, switches have turned off on their own, and washing has been thrown around the bathroom. Sarah reports that Lyndsey is not sleeping well and feels like she is being followed. A Mansfield District Council spokesman described the request as 'bizarre' and stated there was no precedent for such a case. Officers from the housing department were scheduled to meet with Sarah Williams.

Coming Soon!

An interview with Timothy Good, a best-selling author of books such as 'Beyond Top Secret', 'Alien Liason', 'Alien Base', and 'Unearthly Disclosure', is announced for a future issue.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores the intersection of the unexplained, the historical, and the folkloric. It presents contemporary UFO sightings alongside historical accounts of witchcraft, possession, and supernatural phenomena, often seeking rational explanations (like ergot poisoning) while also acknowledging the enduring mystery. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into paranormal and unexplained events, presenting witness accounts and historical research without definitive pronouncements, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions. The inclusion of folklore and ghost stories suggests a broad interest in the supernatural and the uncanny, reflecting the magazine's title, 'The Haunted Realm'. The publication also serves as a platform for organizations like YUFOS and UFOIN, and highlights the work of authors in the field of ufology and the paranormal.