Strange Daze - number 12 B

Magazine Overview

STRANGE DAZE is a UFOlogy magazine published by NUFORI (Northern UFO Research & Investigation). This issue, Number 12, dated February 1997, features Comet Hale-Bopp prominently on its cover, alongside articles exploring its astronomical aspects and debunking sensationalist claims. The magazine also covers a range of UFO sightings from around the UK and internationally, and includes a significant investigative piece on the presence of racism and xenophobia within ufology.

Editorial: Tales of a Strange Comet

Dave Newton, the editor, opens the issue by reflecting on his three years of publishing Strange Daze without making a profit. He introduces the usual mix of genuine cases, reviews, news, and articles, highlighting David Sivier's piece on the 'darker side of UFOlogy'. Newton addresses the intense hype surrounding Comet Hale-Bopp, clarifying that there is nothing unusual about it, despite tales of companion objects and strange radio signals. He provides a factual explanation of comets as 'dirty snowballs' formed from dust and frozen gases, explaining their composition, formation, and the development of tails as they approach the Sun. He notes that comets are often discovered by amateurs and discusses the current interest in automated projects to locate potential Earth-crossing asteroids.

Newton also touches upon the discovery of Comet Hale-Bopp in 1995, noting its greater brightness and size compared to Halley's Comet, which allowed for its early detection.

The Saga of the Saturn Like Object

This section debunks the sensationalist claims of a 'Saturn Like Object' (SLO) allegedly associated with Comet Hale-Bopp. Chuck Schramek, an amateur astronomer, photographed the comet and identified an object that appeared to have 'spikes' and moved with the comet. He calculated its size to be three times that of Earth and reported it on Art Bell's radio show, which led to widespread media attention and speculation, including on Whitley Strieber's website. However, the object was identified as the star SAO 141894, which did not appear on Schramek's computer map due to specific settings. The 'spikes' were attributed to a diffraction effect, possibly dew on the telescope's lens. The article criticizes the persistence of these sensationalist stories, contrasting them with the scientific explanation.

It also mentions an image from the Japanese Naval Observatory showing an object near the comet with a conical protrusion, which was later removed with the explanation that it was an artifact of the CCD imaging system. The article notes that the Royal Observatory at Greenwich confirmed an anomalous object near Hale-Bopp but offered no opinion. It dismisses claims of modulated radio emissions from the comet, attributing them to a misinterpretation of scientific data about water and carbon monoxide release.

New Pictures

This section discusses new CCD photographs posted online that allegedly showed a companion object to Hale-Bopp. However, these images were recognized by astronomer David Tholen as having been digitally altered, with the original images from his telescope not showing any companion. The article criticizes the desperation to bolster the companion theory and reiterates that evidence for a 'Death Star' type companion is unconvincing.

Comet Scares Through History

The article explores the historical connection between comets and disasters, suggesting it might stem from prehistoric experiences with collisions or near misses. It mentions Halley's Comet appearing in the Bayeux Tapestry and Aztec beliefs about comets predicting defeat. A 1910 New York Times report details the panic in Chicago caused by Halley's Comet, with people fearing 'gas' from the comet. The article attributes this fear partly to Camille Flammarion, a popularizer of astronomy who also wrote about the end of the world by comet.

News

This section provides brief news items:

• Clyde Tombaugh (1906-1997): An obituary for the astronomer who discovered Pluto, noting his other discoveries including a comet and asteroids.
• Carl E. Sagan (1934-1996): An obituary for the renowned astronomer and author, who died after a battle with myelodysplasia. He was working on the second edition of his book 'Comet' at the time of his death.
• Michael Knighton in UFO Encounter: The Chairman of Carlisle United Football Club reported a UFO sighting in 1977 involving strange lights and a glowing disc.
• Water Found on the Moon?: NASA scientists revealed evidence of water ice at the Moon's South Pole, detected by the Clementine lunar probe.
• Comet Hale Bopp: Updates on the comet's visibility in the night sky and its expected brightening.
• Supernova Discovered by Briton: Mark Armstrong, an unemployed civil servant, discovered Supernova 1996bo.
• UFO Sightings in Britain: Reports of UFO sightings include:
• Norfolk police pursuing a UFO near the coast.
• Reports of bright orange lights over Shaftsbury.
• A motorist witnessing a bright green star descend and 'blue-white flashes' near Shrewsbury.
• Colombian Airman Videotapes Six UFOs: A video broadcast in Bogota showed six glowing discoidal UFOs filmed by Corporal Juan Carlos Morales.
• New Sighting in Sao Paulo State: A sighting of a 'strange balloon with bright blinking lights' and a 'huge shadowy shape' above it in Santo Andre, Brazil.
• Dead Alien Stirs Controversy in Israel: A report about a 5-centimeter tall humanoid cadaver found near Ahyud, Israel, which the Technion Institute later identified as 'cow manure'.
• Alien Insurance Pays Off: Joseph Carpenter claims he was paid $2 million by insurers for an alleged UFO abduction incident, with evidence including camcorder footage and DNA samples.
• Possible UFO/Airplane Collision: A Chinese passenger plane made an emergency landing after its cockpit window was cracked by an unidentified flying object.

Reports from Around the UK and Beyond

Gloria Dixon introduces this section, discussing the evolving relationship between ufology and the media. She notes that increased media attention has led to a flood of theories, making it difficult to discern credible research from speculation. Dixon emphasizes the need for objectivity and professionalism in studying UFO phenomena, urging researchers to focus on the real issues rather than getting lost in sensationalism or conspiracy theories.

She discusses the rise of 'New Age Nazi' ideology within ufology, linking it to right-wing doctrines, conspiracy theories like the 'Protocols of the Elders of Zion', and the fascination with Third Reich occultism. Dixon expresses concern that these ideas are clouding the issue and influencing public perception.

Swindon, Wiltshire Sighting (July 25, 1996)

A witness reported seeing a diamond formation of 12-16 triangles flying past her window, described as silver-grey with no lights and no sound. The objects appeared to be slightly higher than a single-storey warehouse unit. The location is noted as being near military air bases.

Whitley Bay, North Tyneside Sighting (November 18, 1996)

A witness observed a stationary grouping of lights that formed a V-shape at the front of a massive black triangular object. The object was estimated to be enormous, the size of many football pitches, and hovering about half a mile high. The article suggests this might have been a mid-air refuelling exercise.

M54, Near Wolverhampton Sighting (December 4, 1996)

Two witnesses reported seeing 6-7 starlike objects moving erratically, followed by a triangular object with green and blue lights. They then observed a matt black triangular object, the size of a Boeing 747, hovering very low (50 feet) without noise. Both witnesses became ill afterward.

Hethersgill, Cumbria Sighting (January 1, 1993)

A taxi driver reported her car's lights and CB radio failing, followed by a brilliant ball of white light appearing from behind her taxi, hovering, and then shooting away at high speed. She experienced a time discrepancy, feeling only minutes had passed when an hour had actually elapsed.

Hallbank Gate, Near Brampton, Cumbria Sighting (November 23, 1996)

Taxi driver David L. and two passengers observed a large green ball of light with a white light around it, followed by a tall figure in a silver suit emerging from a field gate. The figure was described as humanoid with 'something' on its head and a 'white sheet'. The witnesses were frightened and drove away.

Sheffield, South Yorkshire Sighting (Summer 1972)

A witness reported seeing two huge bright lights in the sky that separated, with one disappearing and the other hovering above a tree. The ground and surroundings shimmered as if from heat, and the witness felt a vibration and a sense of lightness. The witness also reported developing psychic abilities after the sighting.

Plelo, Nr. St. Breve, France Sighting (June 4, 1995)

A family observed a reflection of a large, solid object with green lights on the underside and other lights on top, hovering about 40 meters away. The object appeared to be the size of a large detached house. Another car passed by without seeming to notice it. The object then became almost transparent before becoming solid again.

Heart of Darkness: Xenophobia, Racism and Fascism in UFOlogy

This is the first part of a two-part investigation into the inclusion of racist doctrines in ufological theorizing. The author, David Sivier, argues that this trend is a disturbing development, particularly within 'New Age' circles. He discusses how figures like Timothy McVeigh and alleged UFO experiences are being linked to right-wing doctrines, the Illuminati, and the 'Protocols of the Elders of Zion'. The article criticizes David Icke for promoting these ideas and notes the controversy surrounding them, especially within Jewish communities.

Sivier examines the concept of 'New Age Nazi', explaining that while the term itself might be a misnomer, it reflects a dangerous fusion of ideas. He highlights three main traditions feeding into this: the organized anti-Semitism and racism of fringe religious groups (like Christian Identity and the Nation of Islam), the fascination with Third Reich occultism and technology, and the conspiracy tradition stemming from the 'Protocols of the Elders of Zion'.

The article details the beliefs of Christian Identity, an Anglo-Israelite group that claims Anglo-Saxon peoples are descendants of the Lost Tribes of Israel and vilifies Jews as impostors. It also discusses the Nation of Islam, founded by W.D. Fard and led by Elijah Muhammad and Louis Farrakhan, which promotes a racist cosmology and claims of extraterrestrial origins for Black people.

Furthermore, it examines the Church Universal and Triumphant, a fringe religious group with theosophical roots, which has been linked to right-wing extremist groups and conspiracy theories. The author notes that these groups often incorporate UFO material into their doctrines, with teachings about 'Yahweh's Spaceships' and 'Lost Civilisations'.

Sivier points out that the Anglo-Israelite mentality has also influenced some Black religious sects, such as the Nation of Yahweh, who also view themselves as true Jews and are anti-Semitic. He criticizes the tendency for Nazi or Fascist ideas to adapt and gain popularity by attaching themselves to various ideologies. The article concludes by noting that the 'Grey' alien archetype may be an exaggeration of early ufonaut descriptions, reflecting Western fears about Asian peoples. It contrasts George Adamski's message of universal brotherhood with the current trend of fear and pessimism in modern ufology, driven by conspiracist ufologies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards sensationalist claims within ufology, as demonstrated by the debunking of the 'Saturn Like Object' and the emphasis on factual reporting of UFO sightings. There is a clear editorial line against the inclusion of racist and xenophobic ideologies within ufology, with a strong investigative focus on these trends. The magazine aims to present a more objective and professional approach to the subject, encouraging readers to critically evaluate information and distinguish between credible phenomena and unfounded theories. The editor, Dave Newton, appears to be a proponent of scientific inquiry, even while acknowledging the personal and often individualistic nature of UFO research.

Title: Strange Daze
Issue: Vol. 3, No. 11
Date: August/September 1996
Publisher: Strange Daze
Country: UK
Price: £3.50
ISSN: 1357-9484

This issue of Strange Daze, a UK-based magazine focusing on paranormal and UFO phenomena, presents a deep dive into the darker and more controversial aspects of ufology. The cover story, "Heart of Darkness Part 2: Incubus/Succubus," by Chris Rutkowski, explores the intersection of UFOlogy with racist ideologies, conspiracy theories, and occultism. The magazine also features reviews of books and articles, a discussion on alien abduction theories, and a retrospective on the work of astronomer Carl Sagan.

Racist UFOlogy and Conspiracy Theories

Chris Rutkowski's article, "Heart of Darkness Part 2: Incubus/Succubus," argues that a significant portion of UFOlogy has become entangled with a fascistic worldview, particularly in the United States. He traces the origins of these ideas to groups and writers who promote conspiracy theories about secret societies like the Illuminati, often linking them to anti-Semitic tropes. The article highlights how historical figures and texts, such as the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, are reinterpreted to fit these narratives. Rutkowski points to writers like David Icke and William Cooper as proponents of these theories, which often posit a hidden elite controlling world affairs.

The magazine examines the historical roots of anti-Semitism in conspiracy theories, noting how the success of Jewish financiers in the Middle Ages and later centuries fueled hostility. It discusses how figures like Nesta Webster linked Freemasonry and Jewish cabbalism to the French Revolution and later blamed Jewish financiers and Prussian militarism for the fall of the Russian monarchy. The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, a forgery concocted by Tsarist secret police and a Russian Orthodox monk, are presented as a key text in this anti-Semitic conspiracy narrative.

Rutkowski criticizes the tendency within some UFO circles to adopt these conspiracy theories, suggesting that they often stem from a fear of globalization and a desire for simple explanations for complex world events. He notes that while racist UFOlogy is less prevalent in the UK, it poses a potential threat if economic conditions and race relations deteriorate.

The Alien Incompetency Theory

Chris Rutkowski also introduces the "Alien Incompetency Theory" (AINT), developed by members of Ufology Research of Manitoba (UFOROM). This theory proposes that the confusing and often contradictory elements within the UFO phenomenon, particularly alien abductions and crash retrievals, can be explained by the incompetence of the aliens involved. Examples cited include abductees returning with mismatched clothing, inconsistent alien behavior, and the failure of aliens to produce lasting mental blocks. The theory extends to crop circles, suggesting their complex patterns are a result of poor communication skills, and even to the Men-in-Black (MIBs), whose human-like characteristics are imperfectly mimicked.

Rutkowski argues that the prevalence of crashes, like the famous Roswell incident, can be attributed to pilot error, a sign of incompetence. He also questions why aliens would use complex symbols for communication when simpler methods exist, and why they would abduct individuals from lower social strata rather than positions of authority. The theory suggests that even implants found in abductees are crude and inconsistent, further supporting the idea of alien incompetence.

Grey Theories and Alien Abductions

Jason Black, in "Grey Theories," offers personal ideas on the nature of 'greys,' their origins, and their methods of travel. He speculates that greys might come from a sunless galaxy, requiring them to wear 'sunglasses' (black films over their eyes) to protect them from our sun's brightness. He also suggests that greys might absorb food through their skin and secrete waste similarly. Black explores the possibility of greys being a slave race, with a hierarchy resembling a bee hive, and questions their interest in humans due to physical similarities.

A list of 52 questions compiled by Melinda Leslie is presented, designed to help readers determine if they have ever been abducted. The questions cover a wide range of experiences, including lost time, paralysis, unusual scars, sightings of lights, dreams of UFOs, and a general sense of having a mission.

UFOs and the MoD

Craig Carl Jackson's "UFOs and the MoD" examines the UK Ministry of Defence's response to UFO sightings. Jackson notes an upsurge in sightings of 'Flying Triangles' (FTs) and questions whether the MoD is aware of their purpose. He highlights the MoD's official stance that there is no problem if UK airspace is not breached and mentions the limited sightings of stealth aircraft in the UK. The article raises the possibility that next-generation stealth aircraft might be mistaken for UFOs, or that authorities are deliberately allowing this confusion.

Book Reviews

The magazine includes several book reviews:

• The Fortean Times Weird Year 1996, edited by Joe McNally & James Wallis: A compilation of bizarre snippets from the Fortean Times, considered useful for general readers but perhaps not offering much new for existing subscribers.
• UFO - The Government Files by Peter Brookesmith: A comprehensive look at American UFOlogy, focusing on well-known cases and the internal workings of UFO groups. The reviewer praises Brookesmith's skeptical approach.
• The Catalogue of Ghost Sightings by Brian Innes: A book detailing various ghost sightings, praised for its photographs and commentary.
• Dimensions - A Casebook of Alien Contact by Jacques Vallee: A reissue of Vallee's classic work, recommended for its historical background and exploration of UFOlogy, though noted as a challenging read.
• Journey into Supermind - A Step by Step Guide to Unlocking your Inner Potential by Dr Richard Lawrence: A new age self-improvement manual that blends Western and Eastern philosophies, with practical exercises.
• Contacts with the Gods from Space by George King with Richard Lawrence: A journey into the mind of George King and the Aetherius Society, described as fascinating and surprisingly well-written.
• The Poltergeist Phenomenon by John and Anne Spencer: A study of poltergeist events, examining historical and modern cases, and exploring theories of psychokinesis versus deceased individuals.

Other Visions, Other Lives: George Hunt Williamson

Dean James reviews "Other Voices," a publication featuring the work of George Hunt Williamson. James notes that while Williamson's books were unique and reflected a Theosophical and occult sensibility, their 'dottiness' limited their audience. The reviewed publication is described as containing the text of Williamson's first book, "The Saucers Speak," with added material by Timothy Green Beckley. The article highlights some of Williamson's scientifically dubious claims about the Sun and planets, and his unusual pronouncements, such as the significance of a Bugs Bunny cartoon.

In Memory of Prof. Carl Sagan

John McDonald writes a tribute to Professor Carl Sagan, astronomer, writer, and broadcaster. McDonald recalls Sagan's early work on 'Earthlights' and his contributions to the "Equinox" program. He highlights Sagan's role in creating the Voyager disc and his influential TV series "Cosmos." McDonald notes the contrast between Sagan's public skepticism about UFOs and his apparent fascination with the possibility of alien life, as expressed in his novel "Contact." The article also touches on the controversy surrounding Sagan's scientific pronouncements and his critique of Immanuel Velikovsky.

The editor's comment on Sagan acknowledges his mixed reception within the UFOlogical community. While Sagan supported the preservation of the Condon Report files and advocated for UFO symposia, his skepticism also drew criticism. The editor notes Sagan's role as a popularizer of science in a media-dominated world.

Letters

A letter from Mik Burley discusses his early UFO experience in 1978 and his uncertainty about the nature of the beings involved. He also shares personal reflections on childhood abuse and the impact of forgotten memories.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Strange Daze consistently explores the more controversial and fringe aspects of ufology. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, particularly concerning the intersection of UFO phenomena with conspiracy theories, racism, and occultism. While acknowledging the existence of UFOs and related phenomena, the magazine encourages a skeptical yet open-minded approach, as exemplified by the "Alien Incompetency Theory" and the critical reviews of books. The publication seems to aim at providing a platform for diverse viewpoints within the paranormal field, while also challenging unsubstantiated claims and exposing potentially harmful ideologies like racist conspiracy theories. The inclusion of a retrospective on Carl Sagan suggests an appreciation for scientific inquiry, even when applied to subjects that challenge conventional understanding.

This issue of STRANGE DAZE, dated 1st February 1997, focuses on UFOs and alleged alien encounters, with a prominent "STOP PRESS" section detailing the analysis of samples from Israel. The magazine includes reader contributions, a book competition, and several comic strips.

Reader Contributions

Mik Burley's Letter

Mik Burley shares two significant personal experiences. The first is a recurring childhood dream where he saw a T-Rex-like creature interacting with stacked containers. He later reinterpreted this dream in the context of his work with container stackers, suggesting that even at a young age, his subconscious might have been processing future events or concepts. He emphasizes the importance of keeping an open mind about unexplained phenomena and not being arrogant in assuming we know the truth.

Burley also recounts a more recent experience where he met four beings, whom he suspected might be interdimensional rather than extraterrestrial. He describes touching one of them, noting its thin, stocking-like coverall, thin but fleshy limbs, and a hairless face with hazel eyes. He felt its solidity and body heat, and perceived an understanding expression from the being. Burley invites other "abductees" to contact him as he is developing a theory that requires cooperation.

Competition

The magazine announces a competition offering two bundles of books. Bundle One consists of seven titles related to ancient astronauts, including works by Erich Von Daniken and J.F. Blumrich. Bundle Two features three books by Charles Berlitz, focusing on mysteries such as the Bermuda Triangle and Atlantis. The competition includes questions about the authorship of "Living with the Lama" and "The Philadelphia Experiment"/"The Roswell Incident". Readers are encouraged to send answers on a postcard by April 1st, with a humorous note about bribes.

Israeli Alien Samples Analysis

BUFORA's Investigation

A "STOP PRESS" item highlights the findings of the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) regarding alleged alien material discovered in Israel. On December 21st, 1996, in the village of Achihod, Galilee, a local resident named Tziona Damti captured a small, 5cm long creature described as having human features, four limbs, and no fingers, surrounded by a slimy material. The creature was reportedly alive upon discovery but later died.

The Israeli media showed significant interest, and local UFO researchers, along with the Damti family, believed the find to be of great scientific and financial value. Israeli scientists were claimed to have analyzed it and concluded it was "not of this world," but no official report or author was cited for these claims. Other researchers and journalists speculated it might be an aborted salamander foetus.

BUFORA's Involvement and Analysis

BUFORA was contacted by Israeli UFO researcher Debby Segal, who, along with Uriya Shai, represented the Damti family. BUFORA agreed to analyze three samples of the alleged alien material, commissioning a private lab (LC2 Analytical Laboratories) for the task. The lab received the samples on January 16th and completed its analysis on January 29th, 1997. The initial study aimed to determine if the samples could be extraterrestrial and if further work was justified.

The analysis focused on carbon and nitrogen signatures, comparing them to those produced by terrestrial life. The lab used the latest British-designed mass spectrometer equipment. Each sample was analyzed three times to ensure legal admissibility in a UK court.

Results and Conclusion

The nine conducted tests revealed that each signature fell well within terrestrial limits. The lab technicians noted that the signatures closely resembled those expected from lizards and frogs. The official conclusion stated: "These values fall directly in the middle of expected values for terrestrially derived Carbon and Nitrogen and therefore we submit that these samples are of terrestrial origin and not extra terrestrial origin as originally anticipated."

Keith Hall, Director of LC2 Analytical Laboratories, signed the report. BUFORA stated this was the first time a British UFO research group had examined alleged alien samples, and the first objective analysis of UFO-related material in the UK in nearly 20 years (referencing the Livingston Case).

BUFORA expressed no disappointment, emphasizing their objective approach. They confirmed that while this result was negative, they had established facts as intended. They concluded that the discovered material had a terrestrial, not extraterrestrial, heritage. BUFORA remains open to further discussion and analysis but stated they are unable to finance any further work. The report was signed by Mike Wootten, Director of Publications for BUFORA, dated 1st February 1997.

Advertising and Other Content

Advertising

An advertisement section invites businesses to send product samples to the editor for potential advertising, humorously suggesting that a large envelope of cash would also suffice.

Visions Quality Alienwear

An advertisement for "Visions Quality Alienwear" offers merchandise like stickers, sweats, T-shirts, and hats, made from 100% quality cotton. It provides contact details for a catalogue.

UFO's, The Physical Aspects Poster

An advertisement promotes a large A1 poster titled "UFO's, The Physical Aspects," which includes summaries of witness testimonies and scale drawings of UFOs encountered, providing a visual shape index. It is priced at £4.99, including postage and packing.

Comic Strips

Several comic strips are included:

• Heck's Files: This comic features humorous, often surreal, scenarios involving characters like Sister Matilda, Tom, Teddy, and various beings, often with a UFO or alien theme. The strips depict interactions, chases, and strange events, sometimes involving entities like "E.T. SERVICES" and the "MINISTRY OF DECEIT."
• The Vacc Lads: This strip depicts aliens from the planet "Bigdic" who claim to be visiting Earth to warn humans about methane emissions from cows. Their proposed solution involves removing cow udders and other parts. They also express interest in beer and cheap thrills, and one alien mentions setting up an abduction table and having Linda Cortile's phone number.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores UFO sightings, alien encounters, and the analysis of alleged anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded investigation, seeking factual evidence, and presenting findings objectively, as demonstrated by BUFORA's approach. There is a clear interest in reader experiences and contributions, as evidenced by the letter from Mik Burley and the invitation for others to share their stories. The inclusion of comic strips suggests a lighter, more entertaining approach to the subject matter alongside serious investigations. The recurring theme is the persistent mystery of the unknown and the human drive to understand it, even when evidence is inconclusive or points to mundane explanations.