SPI Newsletter - no 13

Magazine Overview

Title: Strange Phenomena Investigations Newsletter
Issue Date: December 1988
Volume: 1st Year Special Edition
Publisher: SPI (Strange Phenomena Investigations)
Country of Publication: UK
Language: English

This special edition newsletter from Strange Phenomena Investigations (SPI) reflects on the past year and sets the stage for 1989, emphasizing the importance of unity and objective investigation within the UFO and paranormal research community.

Editorial Comment: (What Price To UFOLOGY ?)

The editorial opens by acknowledging the challenges in uncovering the mysteries of the UFO phenomenon, stating that while progress is slow, perseverance is key. It highlights the need for researchers to actively seek answers and ask the right questions. A significant point raised is the desire for harmony among British UFO groups, criticizing the 'pitiful situation' of infighting and 'slagging' each other off in publications. The editor calls for an independent 'peacemaker' to facilitate reconciliation between groups like the Yorkshire UFO Society (YUFOS), the Independant UFO Network (IUN), and The British Unidentified Flying Object Research Association (BUFORA), urging them to work together for the common goal of understanding UFOs.

The State Of The Cart

By Peter Hough, chairman of MUFORA (The Manchester UFO Research Association), this article discusses the challenges faced by claimants of paranormal phenomena. Hough argues that such individuals are often judged guilty until proven innocent of fraud, misperception, or madness, leading to many cases going unreported. He criticizes the unreasonable attitude that demands 'objective proof' and suggests that witnesses may be sincere but potentially deluded. The article touches upon the concept of 'missing time' and the difficulty in verifying abduction claims, citing the case of Whitley Strieber's 'Communion' and an investigation near Sheffield. Hough also mentions Audrey Hunter's claims of UFO sightings and 'Oz Factor' effects, as well as a bizarre train journey with unaccounted time. He concludes by advocating for asking searching questions, regardless of how unpalatable the answers may be.

Scientific Proof Of Survival After Death

By Michael Roll, this article (Part One) presents the argument that mathematical and scientific proof now exists for reality beyond physical senses, suggesting that humans survive the death of their physical bodies. Roll references the work of early nuclear physics pioneers Sir William Crookes and Sir Oliver Lodge, whose research into psychic phenomena was largely dismissed. He posits that modern discoveries of over 100 sub-atomic particles, including neutrinos, defy previous laws of physics and offer rational explanations for phenomena once deemed supernatural. Roll explains that these particles exist in a parallel, finer vibrating universe that interpenetrates our physical universe. He contends that the enemies of Crookes and Lodge banked on the public's lack of understanding of basic nuclear physics, and that the building blocks of the universe (proton, neutron, electron) are understood, allowing for the discovery of this parallel universe.

1988: What A Year That Was

This section provides a retrospective on the year 1988, highlighting significant events and comments. "Biggest Red Neck" refers to an investigation into the Livingston UFO Incident. "Comment of the Year" is attributed to UFO sceptic Steuart Campbell. "Praise of the Year" commends SPI and its newsletter from author Paul Devereux. Timothy Good's 'Above Top Secret' is named "Best British UFO Book of '88", narrowly beating Jenny Randles' 'Abduction'. The "Disappointment of the Year" is the Alloa Christian Spiritualist Church's refusal of SPI's proposal to raise money for the ITV 'TELETHON' charity appeal through medium demonstrations. "SPI Highlights of the Year" include successful lectures, with particular mention of Charles Heath on 'Witchcraft', Philip Mantle on 'Barnsley UFO Photographs', and Professor Archie Roy on 'Paranormal'. Steuart Campbell's lecture explaining the Livingston UFO case was not well received. Ron Halliday, SPI's treasurer, was featured on BBC Radio Scotland discussing his booklet 'Mysteries Of The Scottish Landscape'. Malcolm Robinson lectured at two psychic festivals. The most looked-for part of the newsletter, according to Ron Halliday and Michael Kemp, appears to be the editor's spelling mistakes. "Wallies of the Year" are the 'SUNDAY SPORT' reporters for their 'ridiculous' UFO and paranormal features.

In Search Of Man

By Lindy Whitehurst, SPI's American UFO consultant, this article discusses the evidence for planets outside our solar system. It notes that until the 1980s, many believed our solar system might be unique. NASA's Infra-red Astronomy satellite photographed 'dust disks' around young stars, indicating potential planet formation. While no fully-formed planets were detected, 'brown dwarfs' were observed. In 1987, Bruce Campbell reported potential planets around seven sunlike stars, and in August 1988, further data suggested that 9 of 18 sunlike stars checked appear to have planets. This implies millions of habitable planets in our Milky Way Galaxy and trillions in the universe, suggesting that UFOlogists have scientific backing for the existence of extraterrestrial life.

News Desk

This section provides updates and announcements. The December newsletter is longer due to it being SPI's first birthday. From January 1989, the newsletter will revert to a standard 6 pages. Special thanks are given to Frank McKay for the front cover design and Tam O Neil for the newsletter logo. Thanks are also extended to lecturers and contributors. The next SPI meeting is scheduled for December 19th in Stirling, discussing an SPI psychometry 'pilot project'. Items for sale include "Strange Experiences Of Audrey Hunter" (£1.50) and "Strange Events At Glenbervie Drive Larbert" (£1.20). The section concludes with Christmas and New Year wishes.

In The News

This section features several short news items:

• Ghostbusters Are Hot On Big Foot's Trail!: Paranormal Investigations Ltd, led by Tom Robertson, is preparing to trek into the Catskills in America to investigate Big Foot, the legendary ape-like creature. The team aims to solve the mystery, with Robertson believing that if Big Foot is spiritual, it will contact him.
• Your Good Ghoul Guide To Scotland: This segment lists haunted locations in Scotland, including Inveraray Castle, Glamis Castle, Fyvie Castle, and Alhambra Bingo Hall in Dunfermline.
• Legend Stone?: Investigator Tom Robertson claims to have found the stone that held King Arthur's sword, Excalibur, suggesting King Arthur may have been Scottish.

According To Greensburg Group

This article reports on UFO sightings and strange events investigated by the Pennsylvania Association for the Study of the Unexplained (PASU) in 1987. PASU documented hundreds of incidents across 22 counties, including Bigfoot sightings described as tall, hairy creatures. A significant wave of unexplained UFO activity began in August 1987, involving large structured objects seen close to the ground. Specific sightings include a flashing rod-shaped object changing into an egg-shaped object near Tylersburg, and a 300-foot long metallic cigar-shaped object observed near Greengate Mall. A woman in South Greensburg reported seeing a circular object with flashing lights, experiencing a 'daylight' effect and headaches. PASU, founded in 1981 by Stan Gordon, comprises scientists, doctors, and engineers, and investigates unexplained incidents, keeping witness identities confidential. Unexplained cases are passed to other organizations for study.

So You're A Skeptic: But Lecturer Says UFO File Deserves

This article, by Anne Colden, reports on a lecture by Budd Hopkins, author of "Intruders: The Incredible Visitation at Copley Woods." Hopkins discussed the similar descriptions given by abductees of alien beings, noting their physical characteristics (4-5 feet tall, large heads, oversized eyes). He presented a tape of a man recalling an abduction under hypnosis. Hopkins stated that at least one person in the audience had been abducted and that more might have been. He explained that while many people have seen unexplainable objects, few report them. Hopkins advocates for approaching abduction accounts with belief, rather than ridicule, and emphasizes the need for emotional support for abductees. He described common abduction experiences, including 'missing time,' and noted that aliens appear neutral, interested in genetic material and reproduction. The article also mentions Hopkins' own UFO sighting in 1964 on Cape Cod.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and the investigation of unexplained events. There is a strong emphasis on the need for objective research, critical thinking, and cooperation within the research community. The editorial stance promotes a serious, unbiased approach to these subjects, encouraging open-mindedness and the pursuit of answers to complex mysteries. The issue also touches upon the controversial topics of survival after death and the existence of Bigfoot.

This document, titled 'BOOKS BY S.P.I. MEMBERS ABOUT PHENOMENA', appears to be a section from a larger publication, likely a magazine or newsletter, highlighting books authored by members of S.P.I. (Society for Psychical Research or similar). The content focuses on two specific books, providing brief descriptions and availability information. The publication date is inferred to be around 1988, based on the copyright dates of the books mentioned.

Book 1: 'Mysteries of the Scottish Landscape' by Ron Halliday This section details a book by Ron Halliday titled 'Mysteries of the Scottish Landscape'. The description highlights specific topics covered within the book, including 'Arthur's Seat and the Telluric Force', 'The Edinburgh Zodiac', and 'The Giant Goddess of the Pentlands'. The text praises the book as 'very well written' and suggests it 'will astonish you'. A copyright notice indicates the book was published in 1988 by R. Halliday. It is available for purchase from 'S.P.I. Publications' at a price of 75p.

Book 2: 'Looking at Strange Phenomena' by Frank McKay This section describes a book by Frank McKay, 'Looking at Strange Phenomena'. Frank McKay is identified as the Secretary to 'STRARGE PREVOME ORGANIZATIONS'. His book recounts three personal encounters with strange phenomena: 'A Cinema Ghost', 'The Lightning Ball', and 'The Rabbit In The Mirror'. Additionally, the book includes a philosophy article titled 'Through The Ether!' and 'other items of interest'. A copyright notice states '(C) Frank McKay 1988'. This book is also available from 'S.P.I. Publications' at a price of 30p.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this document are paranormal phenomena, ufology, and unexplained events, with a specific focus on Scottish locations and personal experiences. The editorial stance appears to be promotional, aiming to inform readers about and encourage the purchase of books written by S.P.I. members. The inclusion of details like prices and availability suggests a direct sales or informational purpose within a community interested in these subjects.