SPI Enigmas - no 27

Magazine Overview

This issue of ENIGMAS, The Journal Of Strange Phenomena Investigations, dated Feb/March 1992, issue number 27, focuses prominently on the official recognition of a UFO landing site in Scotland.

Editorial: Now UFO is official

The editorial, written by Malcolm Robinson, expresses great satisfaction that the Livingston Development Corporation (LDC) has erected a cairn with a plaque commemorating Bob Taylor's 1979 UFO encounter in Dechmont Woods near Livingston, Scotland. SPI (Strange Phenomena Investigations) had actively campaigned for this recognition. The editor emphasizes that this is considered a "WORLD FIRST" in ufology. While acknowledging other significant UFO encounters, the article highlights Bob Taylor's 1979 experience as Scotland's most famous. The encounter involved a landed UFO, two small spherical objects resembling sea mines that emerged and reportedly ripped Taylor's trousers, and subsequent marks on the ground. Robinson vouches for Bob Taylor's sincerity. The recognition is seen as a way to raise "Awareness" of the UFO subject as a facet of enquiring science, even if the nature of UFOs remains an enigma. The article mentions Steuart Campbell and Andy Collins as key researchers on this case, noting that Steuart Campbell's conclusions about a star inducing an epileptic fit were not well-received by the UFO community.

SPI's Role and Mission

An introductory section explains that STRANGE PHENOMENA INVESTIGATIONS (SPI) is an organization dedicated to investigating strange phenomena across various categories, including hauntings, poltergeist events, UFO sightings, and psychic events. Founded in principle in 1979, SPI's involvement goes beyond academic interest, driven by a mutual opinion that the subject demands investigation and awareness to establish a firmer foundation for the belief that "There Are Such Things." SPI aims to collect, research, and publish accounts of strange phenomena, informing the public that there is a case to be answered. They maintain an open mind regarding the nature of these events, hoping to find answers through continued research.

"I DON'T BELIEVE I'VE CRAPPED MYSELF" by Anthony North

This article critiques "super-scepticism," a mindset characterized by extreme disbelief, using the analogy of not needing to go to the toilet until it's too late. North discusses a Radio 4 report that claimed to have solved the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle by discovering the wreckage of five military aircraft. He criticizes the report for dismissing UFO theories and ridiculing those who speculate about UFO abductions or space-time continua, while omitting other relevant information, such as the disappearance of the Martin Mariner flying boat sent to find Flight 19. North argues that this selective presentation of facts is akin to "mystery-mongerers" who distort information. He suggests that super-scepticism is an "illness" born of delusions of grandeur. The article also touches upon the concept of "coincidence" and "synchronicity," referencing Jung and Bernoulli's "law of large numbers," and proposes that statistical analysis of disasters might offer predictive abilities, something super-scepticism hinders.

North further illustrates the concept of coincidental influence by noting how his article on stage magic similarities to the paranormal was published just before writing this piece, and how his mention of Paul Daniels coincided with a review of a book that also mentioned Daniels. His article on the Bermuda Triangle was published shortly before the discovery of the Flight 19 wreckage.

A VOYAGE TO ATLANTIS? (part two) by Jenny Randles

This installment continues Jenny Randles' exploration of psychic experiments, detailing trials conducted in Lanzarote. She describes three tests involving a volcanic ash heap, a panoramic view, and a camel ride. Randles notes that approximately one-third of the responses were appropriate, with some accurately describing elements like a waterfall, a swimming pool, and a "large white shoulder bag" she had purchased. She recounts a second trial where responses were less accurate, and a third trial where she changed the rules without informing participants, which seemed to weaken the results. Despite the mixed results, Randles finds the agricultural marvels of Lanzarote suggestive of "intuitive knowledge." She also describes visiting Mount Teide, a volcano on Tenerife, and feeling as if she were in outer space, pondering the possibility of Atlantis. She concludes that while rationally unsure, her heart is drawn to the belief.

Our Radio and Television Sets are Mediums by Michael Roll

Michael Roll argues that radio and television sets function as "mediums" in a scientific sense, similar to how human mediums operate. He contends that scientists studying survival after death are not "dabbling in the supernatural" but are conducting careful, methodical studies, often involving subatomic physics. Roll explains that mediums, like radios and TVs, act as transformers, converting unseen signals into perceivable forms. He asserts that these devices are not supernatural but perform the same function as human mediums by sorting signals. He contrasts the complexity of the human brain and mind with the relative crudeness of a television set, suggesting human mediums are far more capable.

EXPERIMENTS WITH MATERIALISATION MEDIUMS by Michael Roll

In this article, Michael Roll describes his experiences with materialisation mediums, claiming physical contact with individuals who once lived on Earth. He states that these experiments, building on the work of Crookes, Richet, and Hamilton, are being conducted with modern technology and discoveries in subatomic physics. Roll asserts that these experiments are the "greatest scientific breakthrough in the history of mankind" and emphasizes the need for perfection under laboratory conditions. He appeals for lessons to be learned from past mistakes and warns against underestimating powerful individuals who may have vested interests in preventing such research. Roll mentions the case of Helen Duncan, a materialisation medium who was killed in 1956, and stresses the paramount importance of the medium's safety. He advises that mediums should never reveal their identity and should only allow scientists with a proven track record to witness phenomena. He also promotes "The Colossus" by R.D. Pearson BSc, which he claims provides the mathematics needed to support mediumship and paranormal research.

THE WHITE ACRES ENCOUNTER by Pat Gildea

This report details a UFO sighting that occurred on Tuesday, 30th September 1980, at approximately 1:50 am, at "White Acres," a cattle grazing property near Sale, Victoria, Australia. The principal witness, George Blackwell, a property stationhand, was awakened by his horse and cattle. He observed an object flying low from a south-westerly direction, approximately 550 ft from his porch and six feet off the ground. The object emitted a low whistling sound and blue and orange lights. Blackwell initially thought it was a crashing aircraft but realized it was a domed-shaped object, not an aircraft. He estimated its size to be 10 ft in height and 26 ft in length. The object then proceeded in a straight line, touched down 50 ft from a water tank, and later took off. Blackwell drove to the site and observed the stationary object with revolving orange and blue lights. The object, described as bell-shaped with an orange body and a white dome, lifted off after about 10 minutes. As it ascended, the whistling noise intensified, and a blast of heat was felt. Blackwell noticed a large circular rim on the bottom of the craft. The object flew easterly and disappeared from sight. The investigation revealed a circular brown ring on the ground, approximately 14 inches wide and 30 ft in diameter, with six half spokes pointing inwards. The grass appeared "poisoned," and a nearby water tank was nearly empty. The magnetic field in the area was normal.

A MEMORABLE SIGHTING OF A FRIGHTENINGLY WEIRD 'ROAD RUNNER' by Nigel Watson

This article, originally written 14 years prior to publication, describes a sighting in the Worrall district, West Sheffield, England. The witnesses, Robert Holmes and Sally Jensen, were parked in a car when they observed a bright orange light approaching. The light contained a large, broad figure with a white haze, described as having fizzy hair and furry boots, approximately ten to eleven feet tall. The light projected across the road to a height of about 50 feet but did not illuminate the surroundings. Their car's radio, which had been working, began emitting only static. The figure and light approached them, and they drove away at high speed, with the phenomenon keeping pace. They reported the incident to the local newspaper, which declined to print it, citing potential for public confusion. The witnesses were frightened and unable to provide a satisfactory explanation, considering possibilities like a projection or a link to the nearby council tip.

UFOs And The 4th Dimension by Audrey Hunter

Audrey Hunter proposes that UFOs and other paranormal phenomena may originate from parallel dimensions or a "Fourth Dimension" that can manifest itself to certain individuals. She suggests that this dimension might be a planet or world inhabited by "superminds" who have evolved over millennia, potentially using genetic engineering. Hunter draws parallels to biblical descriptions of angels and heavenly realms, questioning if Jesus's ascension was a form of transport via a spaceship. She speculates that humanity might evolve to become like these "superminds" and that breaking through the Fourth Dimension is necessary to reach other worlds. She invites readers to share their views on UFOs, ghosts, and psychic phenomena.

S.R.U.F.O. Reports

This section presents recent UFO reports from the Scottish Research into Unidentified Flying Objects (SRUFO) group. Two cases are detailed:

Case One: On November 20th, 1992, civil servants in Edinburgh witnessed several small objects making fast and erratic movements above Arthur's Seat. The objects scattered upwards at high speed when an Edinburgh-bound aircraft approached. SRUFO investigators Vincent Johnson and Ken Higgins are following up.

Case Two: On November 21st, 1992, a man on a bus near Livingston saw a large, greyish aluminium "Flying Saucer" hovering above a bank. The object, described as having a circular base with many small sunken white lights, remained stationary for about 10-12 seconds before shooting upwards at incredible speed.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the validation of UFO experiences through official recognition (the Livingston plaque), detailed witness accounts of sightings, and the ongoing debate between belief and skepticism. The magazine consistently promotes an open-minded approach to investigating strange phenomena, encouraging research and the collection of evidence. The editorial stance, particularly from Malcolm Robinson and SPI, is one of serious inquiry into the paranormal, aiming to raise public awareness and establish a more robust understanding of these subjects, while acknowledging the current limitations in explaining them. The issue also touches upon the scientific and philosophical aspects of these phenomena, questioning the boundaries of reality and perception.

Title: ENIGMAS
Issue: FEB-MARCH 1992
Publisher: ENIGMA DESIGN & PUBLISHING
Country: United Kingdom
Document Type: Magazine Issue

This issue of ENIGMAS magazine, dated February-March 1992, presents a diverse range of articles focusing on UFO sightings, paranormal phenomena, and related investigations. The cover prominently features the headline "Now UFO is official," accompanied by an image of a memorial cairn, suggesting a shift in official recognition of UFO events.

UFO Activity and Investigations

The magazine opens with a discussion on the current state of UFO activity, noting a 'Wave' that began in August 1991. Ken Higgins, writing on 'What UFology Means to Me,' reflects on the challenges and public perception of UFO research in the UK. He highlights the need for greater professionalism and cooperation with official bodies, citing a conversation with a UK UFO Coordinator who noted that UFOlogists are often met with insults and accusations.

Hospital Incident: A case is mentioned where a gentleman claims to have seen a 'Flying Saucer' and promises to provide a drawing. This is presented as typical of incidents being reported.

Hencida, Hungary UFO Incident: Detailed accounts are provided of strange events in Hencida, Hungary, on November 17, 1989. Tractor driver Sandor Gyorke reported seeing a red light that descended and encircled his tractor, followed by a stationary object described as a vertical cylinder with pins emitting red and white light. The incident also involved unusual sensations and a subsequent dry, round area found at the site. Other witnesses, including Sandor Harangi, Zsigmond Gyori, and Sandor Szabo, reported seeing red 'Christmas tree' shaped lights and elliptical fireballs.

Muchalls UFO Hot Spot: Tom Allen reports on UFO sightings near Muchalls, Scotland, over several years. He describes witnessing a 'flying machine' with pulsating red lights and later, stationary objects described as red cylinders and a white light, which he believes indicate an intelligent origin and technology far advanced from our own.

UFO Official Recognition: The article "Now UFO is official" by Ian Kyle discusses the erection of a cairn and plaque in Dechmont Wood, Scotland, to mark Robert Taylor's 1979 UFO sighting. This event, which made international headlines, was the result of a three-year campaign by SPI (Strange Phenomena Investigation). While the Livingston Development Corporation (LDC) erected the memorial, SPI plans to hold its own opening ceremony. The article notes that Bob Taylor's name does not appear on the plaque, which instead references Arthur C. Clarke.

Crop Circles

Cropcircle Communique (The Video): Ron Halliday reviews a video titled 'Cropcircle Communique,' which features interviews with figures like John Macnish, Colin Andrews, Dr. Terrence Meaden, and Pat Delgado. The video explores the phenomenon of crop circles, suggesting a 'supernatural intelligence' and an 'interface between this dimension and others.' It discusses theories, including Terrence Meaden's plasma vortex theory, and addresses the issue of hoaxing, showing Doug and Dave in action. The review notes the video's exploration of Celtic symbols and its connection to the 'New Age' and a predicted conjunction in 1993.

Crop Circle Phenomenon: The magazine also touches upon the concentration of crop circles in the south-east of England, questioning if there's a scientific or mystical explanation. A publicity flyer for the 'Cropcircle Communique' video highlights footage of small objects approaching and leaving crop formations, which remains unexplained.

Paranormal and Esoteric Topics

The Devils Of Paradise by Alexey Priyma: This section introduces Russian author Alexey Priyma, a social anthropologist specializing in anomalous phenomena. His book, 'The Devils Of Paradise,' deals with 'evil spirits' and anomalous phenomena in Russia, including UFO encounters, poltergeists, and ghosts. Priyma analyzes 'behavioral patterns' of these entities and offers hypotheses on their nature, emphasizing that the phenomena are guided by 'non-human' logic and consciousness. He suggests that 'extraterrestrial flyers' and various spirits are 'non-people' and that contacts are initiated by them.

Fatima Prophecies: Malcolm Robinson discusses the prophecies of the Virgin Mary to three young girls in Fatima, Portugal, in 1917. He notes that two prophecies have seemingly come true: the early deaths of two girls and the end of World War One leading to World War Two and the conversion of the USSR to Christianity. The third prophecy, deemed too horrific to reveal, is hinted at as predicting a catastrophic year in 1993 with widespread plague, war, and Satanic influence.

News Desk Extra:

• Healing Hands: The article introduces Finbarr Nolan, a faith healer in Edinburgh, who aims to help AIDS victims. He claims to have improved sufferers' lives and also mentions curing comedian Bernard Manning's neck injury.
• Paffled Crofter: Reports from Scotland detail strange flashing lights witnessed by crofters, speculated by Professor Archie Roy to be bright fireballs or meteorites, though he admitted it was 'all very strange indeed.'
• Nessie Found?: A sensationalized report from the Weekly World News claims the Loch Ness Monster was captured by Americans, described as 70 feet long and weighing 20 tons. This claim is dismissed as 'appalling rubbish' by Betty Gallagher of the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre.
• The Light of Her Life: Actress Elizabeth Taylor shares her near-death experience during a bout of pneumonia 30 years prior, describing a tunnel and a strong white light, and seeing her deceased third husband, Mike Todd.
• The Plaque: The magazine concludes by noting SPI's success in getting official recognition for a UFO landing.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs), the nature of consciousness and reality, and the challenges of investigating and gaining acceptance for paranormal subjects. The editorial stance, particularly in the comments by Ron Halliday and the editor, emphasizes the seriousness of UFOlogy, advocating for professionalism, courtesy, and a move away from internal squabbling within the community. There's a clear effort to present UFO research and other anomalous phenomena as legitimate areas of study, despite public skepticism and the difficulties in obtaining official cooperation. The magazine also highlights the growing interest in crop circles and the potential for future significant events, such as the prophesied difficulties in 1993.