Strange Daze - number 10

Magazine Overview

Title: STRANGE DAZE
Issue: 10
Date: August 1996
Publisher: Northern UFO Research and Investigation (NUFORI)
Price: £1.00

This issue of Strange Daze, a publication by NUFORI, focuses on UFOs and paranormal phenomena. The cover features a striking illustration of a landed saucer with the title 'Star Dancer' and a headline detailing an encounter in New England on August 13, 1978. The magazine aims to provide news, reviews, articles, and genuine cases related to UFOs and the paranormal, encouraging a more open attitude towards these subjects.

Editorial: What future for UFOlogy?

The editorial discusses the current explosion of interest in UFOs and alien phenomena, largely fueled by the popularity of shows like 'The X-Files'. The editor notes the increased availability of UFO journals and groups, making it a busy time for the subject. While acknowledging that the hype is good for generating interest, the editor expresses concern that 'The X-Files' may be promoting an extraterrestrial answer for UFOs and abductions, which might be incorrect. The editorial also touches upon the use of regression hypnosis in investigations, cautioning against its use by untrained amateurs and highlighting the potential for manipulation. It calls for a code of practice among UFO groups to ensure witnesses are treated fairly and properly, suggesting that this is crucial for the future of UFOlogy.

News

Ken Phillips Dies: The issue reports the death of Ken Phillips, former editor of UFO Times and past BUFORA Director of Investigations, at the age of 53, due to a massive heart attack. He will be missed by the UFO community.

Philip Mantle Still BUFORA DOI: Rumours of Philip Mantle's resignation as BUFORA Director of Investigations are clarified. He is still in the post, with plans for Gloria Dixon to take over in April 1997. The editor dismisses these rumours as incorrect.

UFO Conferences

Details are provided for upcoming UFO conferences and lectures, including events by BUFORA, Contact International, LAPIS, The Ley Hunter, and The Fortean Times. These events are scheduled across the UK, with some featuring prominent figures in the UFO field.

UFO Sightings

Reports include a wave of UFO sightings over Wearside, possibly related to a laser light show. Another sighting involved an oval craft with red and green lights near Stourbridge. A potential new UFO hotspot is developing around the Ochil Hills in Scotland, with sightings of strange lights and UFOs. UFO flaps were also reported in Northeast Brazil and Canada.

El Chupacabras - The Goatsucker

This section details the phenomenon of 'el Chupacabras' in Puerto Rico, where small farm animals were reportedly killed by having their blood drained. Descriptions of the creature are provided, and its spread to Mexico is noted, with the phenomenon entering mainstream culture.

Alien Big Cat

A sighting of a large black puma-like creature was reported in a country park near Norton, Stockton-on-Tees.

Asteroid Near Misses

The issue mentions two near misses with asteroids in May 1996: 1996 JA-1 passed within 279,000 miles of Earth, and a larger asteroid passed within 1.9 million miles.

Case Investigations by Gloria Dixon

Ghostly Happenings in Cheltenham: Patricia Blackwell reported experiencing a 'terrific pressure' and an 'eerie foreboding presence' on the third floor of an old hotel in Cheltenham. She felt unable to move and experienced a sensation of being watched.

A Childhood Sighting in Liverpool: Ken D., at the age of nine, witnessed a shining disc-shaped object and was then enveloped in a pale blue light, during which he felt unable to move.

An entity in West Denton: CW reported seeing a small, childlike creature with large, black, oval eyes in his bedroom. The creature then vanished through the outside wall. His wife confirmed that she was aware of him trying to wake her but was unable to respond.

Gloria Dixon also comments on the tremendous increase in UFO and paranormal sighting reports, attributing it partly to the popularity of 'The X-Files' and increased public comfort in reporting such incidents. She emphasizes the need to identify genuine UFO sightings and distinguish them from misinterpretations of technological or astronomical objects like Venus or laser light shows.

Stair Floating - Some cases of childhood levitation

This article by Dave Newton explores cases of childhood levitation, focusing on the 'stair floating' phenomenon. It recounts the story of Sarah Jones, who as a child, would float down stairs. Similar accounts from other individuals are presented, including a gentleman who was discouraged from levitating by his father. The article also mentions historical figures like St. Joseph of Copertino and Daniel Dunglas Home, known for their levitation abilities. The phenomenon is suggested to be a form of childish ignorance of natural laws, and readers are encouraged to share their own experiences.

The Hidden Dangers of the Abductee by David Sivier

David Sivier discusses the potential dangers faced by abduction researchers, particularly the risk of contaminating witness evidence with their own ideas. He highlights the FBI's abandonment of hypnosis for recovering suppressed memories due to the risk of implanting false memories. The article references the CGPRG, a Midlands investigative group that ceased to exist, and their experience with abduction cases. Sivier argues that while some abductees report alien involvement, the abduction experience might be an internal event generated by neurological mechanisms. He points out the difficulty for researchers in telling abductees that their experiences might be internal without appearing dismissive.

Other Mentions

• Panspermia: The discovery of 'Buckyballs' in a meteorite suggests that complex organic molecules could have survived impact and potentially brought life to Earth.
• Fish Falls: A report of a fall of fish in Hatfield, Hertfordshire.
• Falling Stars: Information about the Perseid meteor shower.
• Crop Circles: Descriptions of spectacular crop circle patterns, including one resembling a DNA double helix and another shaped like a six-pointed star, questioning whether the artists are human.
• Space Debris: A mention of a new nightclub in Las Vegas based on Area 51.
• Grey area?: The availability of construction kits based on 'Greys' and the Santilli film footage.
• Roswell challenge: A question from 'University Challenge' about the Roswell crash and Jeremy Paxman's comment about 'definite proof'.
• Top of the Greys: A reference to a grey figure on the TV show 'Top of the Pops'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of Strange Daze are UFO sightings, alleged alien encounters, paranormal phenomena, and the investigation of these cases. The magazine adopts a stance of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories while also encouraging critical analysis and the avoidance of misinterpretations. The editorial emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and the need to distinguish genuine phenomena from hoaxes or misidentified objects. There is a clear emphasis on the challenges and potential pitfalls within the field of UFOlogy, particularly concerning witness testimony and investigative methods.

This issue of Strange Daze, identified by the cover headline "THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF THE ABDUCTEE" and page number "- 11 -", delves into the complex and often controversial aspects of UFO abduction research. The content suggests a critical examination of the field, highlighting potential pitfalls and skeptical viewpoints.

The Perils of Abduction Research

The article "THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF THE ABDUCTEE" (page 11) begins by addressing the challenges faced by researchers in the field of UFO abductions. It notes the difficulty in convincing abductees of anything other than their experience, even for trained medical professionals. The author expresses concern that researchers might inadvertently reinforce a patient's belief in abduction, potentially leading to a cycle where children might also begin sharing similar experiences. A parallel is drawn between abduction research and the case of Fred and Rose West, suggesting that some accounts might be a way for individuals to process destructive life experiences. The literary structure of alien examinations is compared to Victorian sado-pornography, and the possibility of legal repercussions if an abductee claims false memories were implanted by an investigator is raised. Furthermore, it is suggested that some abduction memories could be disguised recollections of genuine childhood abuse.

The author warns that researching alien abductions places one "far out of your depth," even citing John Mack facing charges by Harvard University. The advice given is to drop such cases and direct individuals to professional help, acknowledging the scarcity of willing psychologists and psychiatrists.

Kevin McClure is mentioned for his call to restrict abduction research to properly refereed scientific and medical textbooks, aiming to prevent contamination of impressionable minds. The author acknowledges the grim nature of the topic but believes that the experience of other groups facing the phenomenon may be useful. While not advocating for avoidance, the author suggests it might be the only way to prevent later unpleasantness. The article expresses interest in the ongoing investigation of the phenomenon by genuinely interested individuals, contrasting them with those who might dismiss it academically.

An "EDITOR'S NOTE" on page 11 acknowledges the grim nature of abduction research, particularly in the American scene, which often influences Britain. It highlights the worrying abduction cases involving children, such as "The Abduction of Jason Williams," and reiterates the concern that alien abduction could be a cover for human abuse. The priority for witnesses is emphasized, with advice to inform professional child welfare agencies. The note also states that investigators in NUFORI do not use regression hypnosis to avoid the "False memory syndrome" and witness manipulation, preferring to let witnesses tell their own stories without leading questions.

The Rise of Skepticism and the UFO Question

Page 12 features an article by Jay Dillon titled "INDEPENDENCE DAY: WOULD COSMIC UFOS SUC- CUMB TO THE OLD 'TROJAN HORSE' TRICK AND A DINKY COMPUTER VIRUS?" Dillon criticizes the movie "Independence Day" for its inaccuracies but acknowledges its role in bringing UFO issues to public attention. He references books like "Clear Intent" and "Above Top Secret" concerning government secrecy.

Dillon shares his personal interest in UFO studies since 1959, recalling an astronomer's initial explanation of sightings as "swamp gas." He notes how Dr. J. Allen Hynek later became convinced of extraterrestrial spacecraft. Dillon discusses the bitter disputes that can arise within UFO studies and how the topic can alienate people. He questions the pseudoskeptical stance of those who claim open-mindedness while dismissing UFO phenomena. Dillon firmly believes UFOs are real but struggles to define their reality, having read extensively on the subject. He posits that the UFO question is the primary paradigm-shifting question of the world today.

The Biefeld-Brown Effect and Space Travel

Another article by Jay Dillon, "THE BIEFELD-BROWN EFFECT AND SPACE TRAVEL" (page 13), explores the work of Thomas Townsend Brown. Dillon recounts his discovery of a propulsive force caused by high voltage impulses and his studies at Caltech under Robert A. Millikan. He then transferred to Kenyon College, where he studied under Paul Biefeld, leading to the development of the Biefeld-Brown effect. This effect describes the motion of a heavily charged electrical condenser. Dillon notes the similarity to the de Haas-van Alphen effect and seeks correspondence from readers with physics expertise.

Page 14 details Brown's career, including his work at the Swazey Observatory and the Naval Research Laboratory. He patented an "Electrostatic Motor" and received other patents related to electronics. After budget cuts, he worked as a soil engineer and administrator. He became a Lieutenant in the Navy Reserve and worked for the Glenn L. Martin Company, possibly contributing to Navy efforts in invisibility technology. After retiring from the Navy, he worked with Lockheed on radar technology and his "gravitor" propulsion system.

Brown continued working on the gravitor in Hawaii with support from Arthur Radford. An experiment in 1952 reportedly showed the gravitor could lift more than its own weight, postulating a connection between gravitation and electricity. He focused on dielectrics, creating disc-shaped objects that emitted a hum and a bluish glow. Scientists were skeptical, attributing the motive force to "electrical wind." Underfunded, Brown demonstrated his work in France, where discs worked more efficiently in a vacuum. He later headed research and development for the Whitehall-Rand project, focusing on antigravity technology.

Brown became interested in UFOs and founded the National Investigations Committee on Aerial Phenomena (NICAP) in 1956 to lobby against government secrecy and intimidation of UFO observers. NICAP had connections to the intelligence community, including former CIA directors and agents. Brown started his own corporation, Rand International, and secured patents. The article mentions "Antigravity Space Drives" and Brown's "Electrokinetic Device." In the early 1960s, Brown worked for Electrokinetics Inc. and was associated with projects at Stanford Research Institute and NASA. The author expresses interest in locating individuals with physics and electronics training to assist in further research and development of Brown's technology.

An "EDITOR'S COMMENT" thanks Jay Dillon for his article on Townsend Brown, acknowledging him as an interesting character and hoping readers can assist with research into his devices.

Fall of the Idols: Skepticism vs. Pseudoscience

Page 15 introduces David Sivier's article "FALL OF THE IDOLS," which examines the backlash against paranormal claims in the wake of popular shows like "Strange But True" and "The X-Files." Catherine Bennett, a journalist, is presented as a leading figure in this skeptical movement, aiming to combat superstition and pseudoscience. The article notes Bennett's critique of various paranormal topics, including parapsychology, UFOlogy, and astrology.

Bennett's argument is that many proponents of paranormal phenomena do not genuinely believe in them. She tracked down a producer of "Strange But True" and a publisher who admitted to not believing in the content but felt a duty to broadcast it. Bennett's view is that superstition thrives during periods of insecurity and change.

The article discusses Bennett's attack on parapsychology, interviewing Robert Morris, who believes in investigating ESP and psychic powers. Bennett's skepticism is contrasted with the idea that science progresses by investigating anomalies. The article suggests that parapsychology, by investigating phenomena like Near Death Experiences and alien abductions, can still lead to new understanding of the human mind, even if the phenomena are ultimately explained as mistakes or hallucinations.

Page 16 continues the critique of Bennett's stance, suggesting her cardinal mistake is mistaking the model for reality. It argues that scientific models are human constructs and that the universe may contain elements beyond current understanding. The article touches upon the Enlightenment's shift towards a mechanistic understanding of the cosmos and its impact on religion and superstition.

Page 17 discusses the Enlightenment's active encouragement of superstition despite scientific advances. It notes the popularity of literature and the blurring lines between science and pseudoscience. The author criticizes the idea that scientific authorities should dictate beliefs, comparing it to attempts to control traffic. The rapid expansion of science is seen as leading to a public imagination where New Age beliefs can claim a scientific basis. The article also touches upon anxieties surrounding the year 2000 and the "Last Days."

The Nature of Belief and Experience

Page 18 continues the discussion on skepticism and belief. It quotes Goethe on the irresistibility of events and C.G. Jung's observation that reliable, rational people often report UFO experiences, suggesting these might be expressions of suppressed irrational natures. The article notes that while "UFO means Unidentified Flying Object," the possibility of alien spacecraft is not ruled out.

Bennett's approach is characterized as that of a "true daughter of CSICOP and the scientific exclusionists," ignoring any datum that doesn't fit her paradigm. The author defends individuals' right to their beliefs, however mistaken, and argues that television companies and publishers cater to public demand. Dictating beliefs is seen as a slippery slope towards indoctrination.

The article concludes by referencing Charles Fort's observation about the irresistibility of things that "neither threaten nor jeer nor defy, but arrange themselves in mass formations that pass and pass and keep on passing." The author expresses hope that such phenomena will continue.

Reviews and Conference Reports

Page 19 features a review of the Quest International "Keeper of Genesis" Conference. The review notes the limited merchandise and the emphasis on Quest International's own publications. The authors found books by Bauval and Hancock excellent but were less certain about Richard Hoagland. Hoagland is described as the star of the show, presenting a "stunning '3D' computer enhanced image of the Cydonia region of Mars." While agreeing with his Mars hypotheses, the reviewers found his assertions about "arcologies" and ruins on the Moon problematic. They also discuss a reflected image in an astronaut's visor, interpreting it differently from Hoagland.

Page 20 reviews BUFORA's quarterly lecture by Jenny Randles, titled "Worth a thousand words - the photographic evidence." Randles analyzed photographic UFO cases, questioning why the number of such cases has fallen despite increased camera technology. She also critically examined the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Nick Pope, presenting evidence that the MoD has multiple departments interested in UFO cases and can go to extraordinary lengths to obtain evidence. The review praises Randles' lecture as thought-provoking and worthwhile.

A video review of "Voyagers of the Sixth Sun" is also included, describing it as a "breathtaking programme" of UFO footage from Mexico, Germany, and Korea, noting daring low-level runs and spherical rotating objects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently grapples with the tension between scientific skepticism and the investigation of paranormal phenomena, particularly UFO abductions. There is a clear concern about the potential for misinterpretation, psychological manipulation, and the exploitation of public gullibility. The articles advocate for a rigorous, open-minded approach to UFOlogy, distinguishing it from pseudoscience. The Biefeld-Brown effect is presented as a potentially significant area of research with implications for propulsion technology. The role of government secrecy and the public's demand for explanations in the face of scientific uncertainty are also recurring themes. The editorial stance appears to be one of cautious investigation, emphasizing critical thinking and the importance of distinguishing between genuine anomalies and unfounded speculation.

Title: STRANGE DAZE
Issue: 26
Date: July 1996
Type: Magazine

This issue of STRANGE DAZE, dated July 1996, is a UK-based publication focusing on UFOs, mysteries, and related phenomena. It features a mix of book and magazine reviews, reader letters, and comic strips, offering a critical yet engaged perspective on the subject matter.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes several book reviews:

• "ZOLAR 'The Master of the Occult' Encyclopedia of Ancient and Forbidden Knowledge" by ZOLAR, published by Souvenir Press. The reviewer, J.A. Lee, finds the book to be a "stunning visual treat" but notes that it is padded with mysticism, astrology, and prophecy. While acknowledging its diverting and flaky read, the reviewer suggests it's for those who wish to write "Psychic Probe" style articles or bluff others.
• "The Bermuda Triangle" by Charles Berlitz, published by Souvenir Press. J.A. Lee describes this as a "massive bestseller" that investigates unsolved mysteries. The reviewer finds the book informative, fascinating, and hilarious, recounting dematerializing modes of transport and mentioning antigravity warps, flying saucers, ancient astronauts, and epics like Gilgamesh and The Mahabhrata. The reviewer humorously notes that the book is readily available in charity shops.
• "Mysteries from Forgotten Worlds" by Charles Berlitz, published by Souvenir Press. The reviewer, who was once a fan of Berlitz's work, finds this book to be a gallop around the globe, presenting evidence for technologically advanced ancient people wiped out by a world-wide cataclysm. It mentions pyramids, Nasca lines, the Piri Reis map, and Atlantis, drawing parallels with Erich von Daniken's work. The book suggests nuclear armageddon as a possible cause for the cataclysm, referencing ancient texts that describe nuclear explosions.
• Erich von Daniken's "According to the Evidence" and "Signs of the Gods?", both published by Souvenir Press. These are reissues of books originally printed in 1977 and 1979. The reviewer suggests that von Daniken's earlier works, "Chariots of the Gods?" and "Return to the Stars", are more convincing. The reviewer recommends seeking out W. Raymond Drake's "Gods and Spacemen..." series as a better alternative.
• "The Lost World of Agharti" by Alec Maclellan, published by Souvenir Press. Subtitled "The Mystery of Vril Power", this book discusses mysterious people living inside the Earth with Atlantean stock and powers. The reviewer finds it not entirely convincing but a good introduction to Hollow Earth theories, highlighting a personal account of investigating a tunnel.

Magazine Reviews

The issue also reviews several other publications:

• UFO Times Issue 41 (May/June 1996): Praised for its improved layout and colour cover, the reviewer notes it's a bit steep at £2.50 but a great improvement. It's suggested as a potential competitor to other magazines if they can increase their volume.
• Southampton UFO (Group Newsletter): A monthly newsletter by Steve Gerrard, noted for its reviews and newspaper articles. The reviewer points out an inaccuracy in a recent issue regarding the resignation of Philip Mantle from BUFORA.
• COVER UP Issue 3: A newsletter from David Colman's Lothian Unexplained Phenomena Research group. It's described as developing nicely with short articles, cases, and comments, including a strong critique of hoaxed photos.
• NARO MINDED Issue 2 (April 1996): An improved issue from the North Western group NARO, now A4 size with increased content. It contains a range of articles from researchers like Peter Hough and Mervyn Gale.
• Magonia 56: Described as an indispensable read for those interested in alternatives to the ETH and other Fortean subjects, covering topics like organ snatching rumours and skepticism about skeptics.
• INTELLIGENCE Issue 7 (June 1996): From Eric Morris's BUFOSC group, this magazine is noted for its self-promotion. It contains a mixture of articles and cases from the Cheshire area, but is considered less impressive than NARO Minded.
• Phenomenal News from Scotland No 3 (Summer 1996): A magazine from the Scottish Earth Mysteries Research group, featuring a report on dowsing and an article on spontaneous involuntary invisibility.
• OVNI July 1996: The monthly newsletter of the Phenomenon Research Association. It's described as slim but containing interesting articles and cases, with good value at £1 per issue.

Television Review

• "Space: Above and Beyond" on Sky One (and soon BBC2): The reviewer expresses surprise at the cancellation of the show after its first season, comparing its performance unfavourably to Fox's other genre show, "The X-Files". Despite a weak premiere, the series is praised for its character development, plots about honour and integrity, and exploration of government and big business deviousness. The reviewer encourages perseverance past initial impressions.

The cancellation of "Space: Above and Beyond" has generated significant discussion online, with fans speculating on the reasons, including political motives and potential involvement of figures like Chris Carter from "The X-Files". There's also a sentiment that the quality of "The X-Files" writing declined after Glen Morgan and James Wong left.

Letters

Reader letters cover a range of topics:

• One reader suggests that the "greys" might be of reptilian origin and could be linked to ancient "snake" gods, proposing that ancient writings and stories are misinterpreted. They also suggest that what was considered magic or miracles was likely advanced science or medicine.
• Another reader, Joe Publik, discusses the Bible's mention of a "blindman" and offers an alternative explanation to Christ's "miracles", stating that turning water into wine has been replicated. The reader expresses a belief in Christ but not in organized religion, preferring to meet open-minded people.
• A letter from Mick Burley in Leicester defends Paulinne Delcour-Min's presentation at a BUFORA conference, arguing that the editor's review was unjustifiably dismissive. Burley states he is willing to consider concepts like reincarnation and astral-planing but remains skeptical of claims that suggest internal, non-physical events are explanations for alien abductions, citing examples of "space crickets from Venus" as evidence of imagination.
• The editor responds to Mick Burley, standing by his review and reiterating his skepticism about explanations for abduction phenomena that rely heavily on imagination rather than evidence of physical abduction by alien intelligence. He expresses interest in UFOs but not in accepting all "new age claptrap" uncritically.
• Regarding Whitley Strieber's film footage, the editor expresses a feeling that the objects shown will "ultimately prove to be quite normal," despite their unusual appearance. He suggests thermal layers or lens artifacts as possible explanations for the observed phenomena.

Other Content

• Tektites and Meteorites for Sale: Don Simpson of Sunderland Astronomical Society offers tektites and meteorites for sale.
• Visions Quality Alienwear: An advertisement for UFO-themed merchandise.
• Lights of Fancy Presents: Advertises humorous postcards by cartoonist and ufologist Mark Spain.
• Heck's Files: Comic strips by Mik, featuring "Robbie the Bobby" and "Sister Matilda", with humorous takes on UFO-related themes.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around UFO phenomena, ancient mysteries, and alternative explanations for historical and religious events, often drawing from the "ancient astronaut" theory. The editorial stance, as expressed by the editor's responses and reviews, is one of critical inquiry and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly those rooted in "new age" concepts or lacking empirical evidence. While open to considering possibilities, the editor emphasizes the need for solid explanations and distinguishes between genuine UFO phenomena and imaginative interpretations of personal experiences.