Strange Daze - number 14

Magazine Overview

STRANGE DAZE

Issue: Number 14

Date: July 1997

Price: £1.50

Publisher: NUFORI Northern UFO Research & Investigation

Cover Headline: CELEBRATES THE MODERN ERA OF U.F.O s ...AND 50 YEARS OF UFOLOGISTS

Cover Description: The cover features the magazine title 'STRANGE DAZE' in large, bold, colorful letters, a small image of a flying saucer, and a headline celebrating 'THE MODERN ERA OF U.F.O s ...AND 50 YEARS OF UFOLOGISTS'. Below this, a dramatic illustration depicts a scene with multiple figures, possibly in a medical or scientific setting, with a UFO visible in the background. A prominent graphic highlights '50TH Anniversary Special!' and the publisher's name.

Content Focus: This issue commemorates the 50th anniversary of the modern UFO phenomenon, which officially began in June 1947 with Kenneth Arnold's sighting. It includes a retrospective on the past half-century of ufology, featuring comments from various ufologists on significant moments, people, and the future of the field. The magazine also reports on numerous contemporary UFO sightings and related news from around the world.

Editorial

The editorial reflects on the 50 years since the official start of the UFO phenomenon in June 1947, noting that while UFOs had been seen for centuries, Kenneth Arnold's sighting crystallized the subject into its own field. The issue is dedicated to a retrospective of this half-century, including insights from ufologists on key moments and the future. The upcoming BUFORA Congress in Sheffield in August is highlighted as a significant event. The editor, Dave Newton, hints at potential changes for Strange Daze, suggesting this might be the final issue in its current format, but assures readers that a magazine will continue, with the next issue planned for November. He also mentions local events, including regular Friday night gatherings at the Egypt Cottage in Newcastle and book launches at Dillons bookshop featuring UFO authors.

News Section

UFO Flap in Cambridgeshire

Reports detail a series of UFO sightings around Saffron Walden, Cambridgeshire, starting March 12, 1997. Incidents include university graduates spotting a fast-moving, silent object, a father and son seeing a 'huge red object' hovering, and multiple witnesses reporting strange lights and rocket-like objects. One witness, Janice Wayback, noted her cat's unusual reaction to a sighting. The reports are attributed to the British newspaper Saffron Walden Weekly News.

Two Ufologists Found Dead in New Hampshire

On June 3, 1997, the bodies of George W. Perry (50) and Keith Begnoche (22) were discovered in a tent at the Dolly Copp Campground in northern New Hampshire. Police investigations suggested carbon monoxide poisoning from a heater left inside the tent. Both men were involved in ufology; Perry was an electrical engineer and assistant director of the Rhode Island chapter of MUFON, while Begnoche was the son of Gabriel Begnoche. Relatives reported them missing after they failed to return from a camping trip to Mount Washington.

New Pressure Group Against Satanic UFOs

A new group, UFO Concern, warns against the 'satanic nature' of UFOs, claiming alien intelligences are operating amongst mankind and that contacts are rarely beneficial. The group's founder is retired Admiral Lord Hill-Norton, who believes UFO encounters are 'antithetical to orthodox Christian belief.' The Revd Paul Inglesby, coordinating secretary, reported positive responses and interest from church members. Gordon Creighton, editor of Flying Saucer Review, noted growing concern among his readers. However, retired Bishop Rt Revd Paul Burrough expressed less concern, and Revd Dr David Wilkinson, a Methodist minister and astrophysicist, stated that Christians have nothing to fear and that alien life, if it exists, would only enhance the concept of God's creativity.

Irish UFOs

A report of three giant UFOs entering Sligo Bay was debunked as a hoax by Irish researchers. However, a genuine sighting occurred on May 10, 1997, when a British camera crew videotaped a 'round luminous UFO' in Bantry, County Cork. This footage is to be shown as part of an ITV documentary titled 'We Are Not Alone.'

USAF Says Roswell Aliens Were Only "Test Dummies"

On the 50th anniversary of the Kenneth Arnold sighting, the U.S. Air Force released a 231-page report, 'The Roswell Report--Case Closed.' The report concluded there was 'no evidence whatsoever of flying saucers, space aliens or sinister government coverups.' It stated that debris found in 1947 came from a Project Mogul balloon used for monitoring the atmosphere for Soviet nuclear tests. The report also mentioned that as many as 67 life-sized dummies were dropped over New Mexico between 1954 and 1959 to measure parachute impact on pilots, suggesting witnesses may have confused these with alien crash debris.

Key Incidents and Sightings

Giant V-Shaped UFO Seen Near Las Vegas, Nevada

On June 23, 1997, Las Vegas Metro Police received numerous calls about a giant wedge-shaped or V-shaped UFO with pulsating yellow lights hovering northwest of the city. Witnesses described it as splitting up and then rejoining, with lights resembling those from a football field. The sighting was compared to one seen over Phoenix on March 13, 1997.

UFOs & Black Helicopters Stalk Chicago Suburb

On June 14, 1997, the Simmons family in Streamwood, Illinois, reported a loud, dark gray helicopter. Later that night, Mrs. Simmons observed a bright red light, stationary and non-blinking, in the sky. On June 16, a friend reported an 'intense' red light moving across the sky. On June 17, a black helicopter was seen traveling low over the area.

Black Helicopters Seen Around Eastern Texas

On June 10, 1997, witnesses in Spicewood, Texas, sighted a flight of seven to nine black helicopters, possibly AH-64 Apaches. On June 21, residents in San Saba, Texas, saw about a dozen black helicopters on the tarmac at the airport. On June 25, people in Oilton, Texas, sighted six black helicopters, including AH-64 Apaches and a UH-60 Blackhawk, flying west.

UFOs Buzz Seaside Hotel in Cancun, Mexico

On June 15, 1997, Cathy C. and her son reported seeing a triangular, softly glowing sphere with no colored lights, described as being the size of a small military jet, buzz their hotel balcony. The object was joined by three others, and they moved quickly and aerobatically.

Mystery Meteors Bombard Waikanae, New Zealand

Strange meteoric bombardments were reported in Waikanae, New Zealand, in early June 1997. Witnesses described a spherical object changing color from green to red, leaving a trail. New Zealand's National Television downplayed it as a meteor shower, but David Butterfield noted that the phenomenon affected television channels. Later, on June 13, residents reported hundreds of green and yellow illuminations crossing the sky, possibly related to the Hale-Bopp comet. The Carter Observatory suggested space junk or re-entering atmosphere, while Radio New Zealand reported a large green ball of light crashing into valleys behind Waikanae.

UFO Hovers Over Southwest Missouri During a Storm

On June 16, 1997, a couple in Ozark, Missouri, observed a strange UFO for 45 minutes during a storm. The object had four white lights in a diamond pattern that moved inward, followed by a pale green light. It remained stationary among roiling thunderclouds.

UFOs Active on Wisconsin's Lake Michigan Shore

On June 10, 1997, Rev. Billy Dee reported seeing a metallic object, brightly illuminated by the sun and also emitting its own light, over Door Peninsula. On June 14, William H. and Julie reported an erratic bright yellow/orange light doing crazy spirals over Lake Michigan in Milwaukee.

Arab Colonel Sees a UFO Near the Persian Gulf

Colonel Ali al-Sayed of Dubai reported seeing an unidentified flying object streaking across the night sky. The star-like object left green and blue arcs and moved horizontally at a steady pace for two minutes before disappearing.

UFO Follows Police Car in Argentina

On June 14, 1997, three police officials in Telen, Argentina, reported an 'enormous and ovoidal light' of bright orange color descending and accompanying their car for 13 kilometers towards Victoria. The UFO then headed south into the hills.

UFO Crashes in the Sea North of Guyana

On June 12, 1997, Corey I. and a friend reported seeing a craft approach from due north at a high speed, descend rapidly, and dive into the ocean. No sound was heard.

UFO Appears Over Water Treatment Plant in Brazil

On June 6, 1997, a truck driver at a water treatment plant in Registro, Brazil, spotted a circular object with moving lights of various colors. It took off and hovered, joined by a second, smaller object. Another worker also observed a yellow light hovering.

Orange Lights Seen Often in Queensland

During April 1997, multiple sightings of orange lights were reported in Queensland, Australia. These included a 'illumination changing from red to blue' in Burleigh Heads, '12 moving orange lights' heading east, and a 'large blue-green illumination shooting straight into the ground' in Brisbane. A 'large, vertical cigar-shaped UFO, red or orange in colour' was also reported in Horsham, Victoria.

Parisian Suburbs See Two UFO Overflights

On May 31, 1997, two communities near Paris reported UFO sightings. In Rambouillet, Jean-Marc Ricca and his wife saw a bright, cylindrical object, followed by five others, moving at high speed without condensation trails. Later that evening, in Boulogne-Billancourt, photographer Gerard Wander observed an object resembling a shiny aluminum color, possibly spherical, with long cables, moving slowly and then ascending rapidly.

UFO Seen Over Lithuania

On May 12, 1997, five people in Ginkunai, Lithuania, spotted a daylight disc described as a 'saucer animated by a pulsation like a heart, with lights like a (car's) direction signal.'

UFO Startles Motorists in the Canary Islands

On April 27, 1997, UFOs appeared on Tenerife Island. Motorists described a 'static and luminous object' of pale yellow color, larger than a star but smaller than the moon, which they observed for over 20 minutes before it flew northeast. A tourist also reported a 'yellowish light' moving from the coast inland, projecting a 'fantastic sparkle.'

Black Triangles Sighted All Around Australia

On April 6, 1997, a 'flying black rectangular object with a red/orange illumination underneath' was seen heading for downtown Sydney. On April 11, a 'large matte black triangular shaped object' was sighted moving slowly over Melbourne. On April 12, five bright orange illuminations in a triangle formation were seen over Campbelltown. On April 22, a 'large black delta or triangular shaped object' was sighted over Newcastle, followed by three yellow/orange ball lights. On April 28, a 'triangular red illumination' passed over a family's car on the Pacific Highway.

Glowing UFOs Seen Over Australian Deserts

On April 8, 1997, people in Fremantle, Western Australia, saw a 'flouro green illumination' descend and then rocket off north. On April 14, people in Horsham and Ouyen, Victoria, reported sightings of a 'very large ball illumination' and a 'bright ball of light' hovering before taking off west.

Glowing Blue UFO Seen in Northern Portugal

On May 23, 1997, twenty people in Quintas, Portugal, saw a glowing blue object that started as a round shape and then began to 'blossom like a marigold.' It moved erratically and appeared to be at a height of 60 to 70 meters with a diameter of about 20 meters.

Other Articles

More Overseas UFO Video

German ufologist Werner Walter is seeking video exchange opportunities with UFO buffs globally. He has videos of UFO sightings over Germany and TV programs from central Europe.

Mathilde Flyby

The NEAR spacecraft has completed a close flyby of the asteroid 253 Mathilde, taking hundreds of images. Mathilde is the largest asteroid yet visited by a spacecraft and is of interest due to its orbit and carbon-rich composition.

Mars Pathfinder Lands!

Mars Pathfinder successfully landed on the red planet on July 4th, marking the first landing since the Viking missions of 1976.

Large Object Found Beyond Pluto

A sizable body, designated 1996 TL66, has been discovered beyond Neptune. It is larger than any asteroid except Ceres and is estimated to be up to 600 km across, making it the largest of 43 known objects in the Kuiper Belt.

Spinning Black Holes

Research indicates that two black holes being studied are spinning 100,000 times per second, deduced from accurate determination of their rotation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the 50th anniversary of modern ufology, with a strong emphasis on cataloging and reporting UFO sightings from around the globe. The magazine appears to adopt a neutral to positive stance towards the existence of UFOs, presenting numerous witness accounts without overt skepticism. The editorial stance leans towards investigating and documenting these phenomena, encouraging reader participation and the sharing of information. There is also a notable inclusion of news related to space exploration (Mars Pathfinder, asteroid Mathilde) and astronomical discoveries (object beyond Pluto, black holes), suggesting a broader interest in science and the unknown beyond just UFOs. The inclusion of a group warning against 'satanic UFOs' presents a more critical perspective within the ufology community, which the magazine reports on factually.

Title: Strange Daze
Issue: 11
Volume: 5
Date: June 1997

This issue of Strange Daze, a UK-based magazine focused on UFO phenomena, commemorates "50 Years of UFOlogy" with a comprehensive look at the history, key cases, and ongoing research into unidentified flying objects. The magazine blends historical accounts, personal testimonies, and scientific perspectives, reflecting on the evolution of the subject from its early days to the mid-1990s.

Cover Story: 50 Years of UFOlogy

The cover headline, "50 Years of UFOlogy," sets the theme for the issue, which delves into the significant events and figures that have shaped the field since the late 1940s. The issue includes a timeline of UFOlogy from 1947 to 1997, highlighting major sightings, investigations, and publications.

Scientific and Astronomical Notes

The issue touches upon astronomical discoveries, including the confirmation that black holes spin, based on observations of their gravitational effects on nearby stable orbits. It also discusses the discovery of asteroid 3753, which has a unique horseshoe orbit with Earth, and the ongoing debate about the presence of water ice on the Moon, with new radar data casting doubt on earlier findings.

Mars Meteorite Controversy

A brief report discusses new evidence suggesting that carbonate bits within the Martian meteorite ALH 84001, initially thought to contain microscopic fossils, were actually formed by a high-powered impact that heated the carbonate to over 1,000 degrees Celsius.

Case Investigations: Reports from Around the UK by Gloria Dixon

This section marks the 50th anniversary of the modern era of UFO investigation, beginning with Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting near Mount Rainier, which popularized the term "flying saucers." The article notes that the term had been used earlier, with a Texas farmer describing a "large saucer" in 1878. The infamous Roswell Incident in July 1947 is highlighted as a pivotal event that, along with Arnold's sighting, birthed the modern UFO phenomenon. The author expresses concern that much of the media coverage for the 50th anniversary has been lightweight and has not significantly advanced the understanding of UFOs.

The Public's Perception and UFO Mythology

The article questions whether public belief in alien visitation is influenced more by media saturation than by substantial evidence, citing a poll where 92% of callers believed aliens had visited Earth. It suggests that the high profile of UFOs has led to the creation of a "mythology and religion" within the UFO movement, which can hinder objective research. While acknowledging that electromagnetic pollution and earthlights can explain some sightings, the author notes that no single theory encompasses all reports.

Close Encounters and Subjective Experiences

The distinction between sightings in the sky and close encounter experiences is discussed. Close encounters often involve interaction with occupants and "missing time." The article explores theories about the origin of these experiences, including psychological origins, the potential influence of other dimensions, and the human consciousness's role in interpreting these events. The phenomenon of brilliant white lights preceding UFO sightings and close encounters is also noted, drawing parallels with near-death experiences.

The Joanne Woods Case

A detailed account is given of the experiences of Joanne Woods and her daughter, Jade, in Milton Keynes. Over a period of seven years (1982-1989), Joanne experienced paralysis, fear, and unusual sensations, including waking with dirty hands and feet and scratches. A scar on her leg appeared after one incident. Her daughter, Jade, later began experiencing seizures, which Joanne believes are linked to something she witnessed in the garage/bedroom when she was younger. Jade also reported memories of being on a table with bright lights and unusual faces. The case is being investigated by Ray Reed, with potential input from Dr. Sue Blackmore regarding sleep paralysis and hypnagogic states.

Other Sightings and Reports

Several other sighting reports are included:

• LJ's Sighting (Location not specified, Date not specified): A triangular object with pulsing lights and a roaring sound was observed.
• SC's Sighting (Tadworth, Surrey, April 21, 1997): A rumbling noise was heard overhead, and black silt was found around the house, suggesting an unusual aerial event.
• Gordon B's Sighting (Sunderland, September 1951): Gordon B reported seeing a "metallic oval object" that zig-zagged at high speed over Roker Park football ground. An inquiry involving a military officer from the MOD suggested awareness and withholding of information regarding UFOs.
• Jill R's Sighting (Cwmbran, South Wales, Summer 1968): Jill R and her mother observed a metallic oval object hovering low, described as having "pinks and purples" and appearing to spin before moving away rapidly.

UFOlogy Past and Future: A Historical Overview

This extensive section provides a chronological list of significant events in UFOlogy from the 1940s to the 1990s:

• The 1940s: Includes Kenneth Arnold's sighting, the Maury Island incident, the Roswell crash, Captain Mantell's death, and the establishment of Project Sign and Project Grudge. It also mentions Clyde Tombaugh's sighting and the influential books by Donald Keyhoe and Frank Scully.
• The 1950s: Features the McMinnville UFO photograph, the formation of Project Blue Book, George Adamski's contactee claims, reports of landed UFOs in France, the Kelly-Hopkinsville siege, a high-speed UFO sighting over RAF Bentwaters, and the Antonio Villas Boas abduction case.
• The 1960s: Covers the Betty and Barney Hill abduction, Lonnie Zamora's encounter in Socorro, New Mexico, the "Warminster Thing" photograph, John G. Fuller's book on the Hills, Dr. J. Allen Hynek's "swamp gas" explanation, and the US Air Force's commission of the Condon study.
• The 1970s: Includes John Keel's "year of the Garuda," the Condon Report, the first manned lunar landing, the closure of Project Blue Book, Jacques Vallee's "Passport to Magonia," John Keel's "UFOs: Operation Trojan Horse," Dr. J. Allen Hynek's "The UFO Experience," Maureen Puddy's abduction experience, the impact of the Freedom of Information Act, the Avesley abduction, UFO sightings over US weapons stores, the Edward "Billy" Meier case, and the "Alternative 3" phenomenon.
• The 1980s: Details Charles Berlitz and William Moore's "The Roswell Incident," PC Alan Godfrey's encounter near Todmorden, the Rendlesham Forest incident, the Betty Cash and Vickie Landrum case, Budd Hopkins' "Missing Time," Paul Devereux's "Earthlights," Debbie Tomey's abduction experiences, the alleged Majestic 12 documents, Whitley Strieber's "Communion," Timothy Good's "Above Top Secret," Ed Walters' Gulf Breeze photographs, and Linda Cortile's alleged abduction in Manhattan.
• The 1990s: Covers flying triangle sightings over Belgium, a USSR report of a UFO destroying missiles, pilot reports of "mystery missiles," the TV show "The X-Files," the publication of "Strange Days," Steuart Campbell's "The UFO Mystery Solved," "Without Consent" by Carl Nagaitis and Philip Mantle, the US Air Force's reclassification of the Roswell debris as Project Mogul, Ray Santilli's "alien autopsy" video, and reports of triangular UFOs and alleged alien bodies being dummies.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently emphasizes the importance of objective research and investigation into UFO phenomena, urging researchers to move beyond political divisions and subjective paradigms. There is a recurring theme of questioning the official explanations and acknowledging the possibility of withheld information by authorities. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, seeking to understand the "mystery" of UFOs and their potential implications for our understanding of ourselves and the universe. The magazine highlights the enduring public fascination with UFOs and the ongoing debate about their nature, whether they are terrestrial, extraterrestrial, or psychological in origin.

This issue of "They Shoot Saucers Don't They?" features a collection of articles reflecting on the history, key events, influential figures, and future of UFOlogy, primarily from a British perspective. The main article, "Lying Sources" by Andy Roberts, questions the significance of the 50th anniversary of UFO sightings, particularly Kenneth Arnold's 1947 encounter, suggesting that the 'flying saucer' narrative is a red herring and that Arnold's sighting did not begin the phenomenon but rather ended a period of disparate sightings.

Roberts defines 'key events' not as those that support a particular worldview, but as those that unlock meaning from mystery, such as the Williamette Pass photo case. He critiques the tendency in UFOlogy to interpret solved cases as mere misperceptions, leading to denial and entrenchment of belief systems. He emphasizes the mythic significance of the UFO phenomenon, drawing on Joseph Campbell's definition of myth as a conduit for cosmic energies that propel the human spirit forward. He notes that many UFOlogy themes, such as alien contact and human-alien liaison, predate 1947 and are redefinitions of older myths, with new motifs like pollution and world destruction emerging.

Roberts posits that rather than external alien agencies, humans might be communicating with themselves through these myths. He acknowledges a potential physical component to UFO sightings, including earthlights and meteorological phenomena, but stresses the importance of separating observation from interpretation. He also touches upon the CE4 type cases and the meaning derived from them.

Influential Individuals and Cases

The issue delves into influential figures and cases that have shaped UFOlogy. Andy Roberts highlights the importance of individuals who offer broad perspectives, citing John Keel, Jacques Vallee, Charles Fort, J.R. Hartley, and Anton Wilson for their eloquence and breadth of knowledge. He also commends Allen Hynek for his perceptive thinking and Allen Hendry for his UFO Handbook, and Jenny Randles for her significant contribution to popularizing the field in the UK. Paul Devereux is noted for opening up interesting areas of thought.

David Sivier's article, "Alien Sex Fiend," explores the phenomenon of alien abduction, particularly the sexual aspects. He references the early story of alien peeping Toms from The Sunday Sport and John Keel's observation about the high percentage of lovers among UFO witnesses. Sivier discusses how human sexuality, with its diverse reproductive strategies and social structures, presents a rich area for study by alien races, though he questions their methods.

Malcolm Robinson's reflection, "So much happening, but so few answers," also revisits Kenneth Arnold's sighting and questions whether humanity is any closer to understanding UFOs 50 years later. He notes the increase in UFO sightings and triangular UFO shapes, as well as UFO abductions. Robinson dismisses the idea of genetic interbreeding programs as a primary driver for abductions after 50 years, suggesting instead a global psychosis or a genuine alien intelligence. He expresses frustration at the lack of understanding regarding the 'why' behind abductions and the trauma they inflict.

Key Figures and Their Contributions

David Sivier's piece also critically examines influential figures. He argues that Ray Palmer was more influential than Kenneth Arnold, as Palmer provided explanations for objects through the Shaver mystery and promoted both it and Arnold in pulp magazines, shaping the popular image of flying saucers. Gray Barker is credited with establishing the 'Men In Black' legend, though his work is questioned for potentially being based on hoaxes. George Adamski is identified as a classic contactee whose ideas influenced aspects of the subject.

The Betty and Barney Hill abduction case is presented as seminal, defining the 'medical examination' aspect of abductions, including sperm extraction and spindly aliens. Antonio Villas Boas's case, involving sex with an alien, is also cited as defining the sexual nature of the experience.

Sivier highlights J. Allen Hynek, John Keel, and Jacques Vallee as three of the most important figures. Hynek is recognized for breaking with the military and lending scientific credibility to UFO study. Keel and Vallee are important for linking ufology to faeries and Fortean phenomena, effectively launching the psychosocial movement within ufology.

For 'Dark Side ufology,' Hopkins, Linda Moulton Howe, and Bill Cooper are mentioned for their work on abductions, cattle mutilations, government deception, and Area 51.

In the UK, Tony Dodd, Peter Brookesmith, Jenny Randles, and Paul Devereux are noted. Randles is praised for her prolific writing and promotion of the subject, while Brookesmith is recognized for his work in editing 'The Unexplained.' Paul Devereux is credited with making the subject accessible through his background in Earth mysteries and the 'Ley Hunter' concept.

Organizations and Publications

The issue mentions several organizations and publications. MUFON in America and Quest International in the UK are identified as the most influential organizations now, with BUFORA playing a secondary role. Magazines like UFO Magazine are described as market-oriented and influential in spreading American UFO mythology. Strange Daze is noted as a magazine that gives equal voice to skeptics and believers.

Broader Cultural and Psychological Context

Andy Roberts discusses the 'Americanization' of the UK UFO scene and the impact of programs like The X-Files. He suggests that while these have made UFOlogy more entertaining, they have also made it harder for newcomers. He believes UFOlogy will continue due to its inherent appeal and the human need for mystery.

Malcolm Robinson questions the 'why' behind abductions, suggesting it might be a global psychosis or a profound psychological unease about sexuality. He notes that while human minds struggle to comprehend alien minds, the aliens' actions are traumatic and confusing.

David Sivier explores the connection between UFO abductions and human sexuality, referencing the work of Desmond Morris and the diverse reproductive strategies of humans. He suggests that aliens might be studying human sexuality due to its complexity and the changes it has undergone in the 20th century.

The Black Chamber and Conspiracy

An excerpt discusses James Shelby Downard, described as a paranoid conspiracy researcher whose work probes the inner workings of America's secret power elite. His manuscript 'Skullduggery' refers to the 'Black Chamber,' equated with the US State Department's Cipher Bureau, suggesting an occult cabal guiding humanity towards a dystopian future.

The Nature of Aliens and Abductions

Sivier's article "Alien Sex Fiend" further examines the nature of aliens and their interactions with humans. He questions the need for aliens to use human women for reproduction when advanced technology could be used. He suggests that the origin of alien sexual encounters might lie in human neurology and consciousness rather than extraterrestrial desires. He compares the androgynous depiction of aliens to Biblical angels and explores the cultural equation of beauty with femininity.

He also discusses the sexual orientation of abductees and the potential for aliens to insert probes or engage in sexual molestation, drawing parallels to tribal rituals and genital mutilation. Sivier argues that abduction experiences, particularly those involving sexual trauma and the impartation of 'secret knowledge,' can be seen as a form of cosmic initiation, albeit one that differs from traditional tribal rites in its scope and intent.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical evolution of UFOlogy, the nature of evidence and interpretation, the psychological and cultural underpinnings of belief in UFOs and related phenomena, and the ongoing debate about the reality and purpose of alien contact and abductions. The editorial stance, as expressed by Andy Roberts, is one of critical commentary and a call for a balanced approach, emphasizing critical thinking and a healthy skepticism while not dismissive skepticism. There is a consistent questioning of established narratives and a push to look beyond simplistic explanations, whether they be purely mundane or overly sensationalized extraterrestrial hypotheses. The articles collectively suggest that the UFO phenomenon is deeply intertwined with human psychology, mythology, and societal anxieties, and that understanding it requires a multidisciplinary approach.

Title: Strange Days
Issue: SD14
Publisher: NUFORI
Country: UK
Date: Undetermined

This issue of Strange Days magazine delves into a variety of paranormal and UFO-related topics, featuring in-depth reviews of several books, reports on talks by prominent figures in the field, and satirical content. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in conspiracy theories, unexplained phenomena, and the broader UFOlogy community.

Book Reviews

"Left at East Gate" by Larry Warren and Peter Robbins

This review highlights "Left at East Gate" as a potentially groundbreaking book detailing the Rendlesham Forest incident of 1980. Larry Warren, a witness and security policeman at RAF Bentwaters, recounts his experiences, including seeing strange lights, a mysterious object, and entities. The book also explores how witnesses were treated by military and intelligence organizations, with claims of phone tapping and passport confiscation. The review suggests the incident might be linked to the large stockpile of tactical battlefield nuclear weapons held at RAF Bentwaters/Woodbridge, implying a possible cover-up. The book is praised for its potential to rival the Roswell incident in significance.

"Secrets of Masonic Mind Control" by Michael Anthony Hoffman

This review positions Michael Anthony Hoffman's book as a significant contribution to modern conspiracy research, focusing on the 'hermetic power elite' and a 'revisionist account of what Hoffman terms "man's peregrination away from Eden"'. The book posits that attempts to rebuild a past 'Heaven on Earth' are indicative of a preparation for the return of expelled demonic entities. Despite its potentially outlandish premise, the review stresses that Hoffman's core arguments about humanity's 'pathological war on nature' and the current era of industrial pollution are valid and concerning.

"Alien Contact: The First Fifty Years" by Jenny Randles

Published in the 50th year of the modern 'Flying Saucers' era, this book by Jenny Randles is presented as a comprehensive overview of UFO cases from 1947 to 1997. It covers a wide range of phenomena, including alien crash landings, contacts with beings, UFOs in space, abductions, and the Roswell incident. While acknowledged as potentially 'old hat' for seasoned UFOlogists, it is recommended for newer enthusiasts drawn to the subject by shows like 'The X-Files'. The book is noted for its inclusion of photographs and illustrations. A minor criticism is leveled at the brief mention of the 'Fife Incident' without acknowledging the research conducted by SPI.

"Fairies: Real encounters with Little People" by Janet Bord

This review describes Janet Bord's book as a thorough and interesting study of fairy sightings. It notes that people often see fairies when their minds are blank and they are daydreaming, and that fairies are often observed dancing, possibly performing a ritual. The book explores the possibility that if humans were more psychic, they might see fairies more often. It highlights the consistent bright colors reported in fairy sightings and mentions numerous cases from Ireland and other parts of the world, including indoor sightings, and even reports of fairy cars, boats, and planes. The review also points out a potential link between fairy accounts and UFO occupants.

Talks and Events

Nick Pope at Dillons Bookstore

Nick Pope, described as 'The Man from the Ministry' and 'Real Life Fox Mulder', delivered a talk on 'alien abductions' and signed copies of his new book, "The Uninvited". Despite initial low expectations based on reviews of his previous work, the reviewer was pleasantly surprised by Pope's well-spoken demeanor. Pope, the MoD's former UFO expert, is noted for his ability to leverage media attention. His talk provided a balanced overview of abduction history and theories, acknowledging the extraterrestrial origin of some UFOs while also presenting other viewpoints. The review suggests the book is suitable for newcomers to the field but may not impress veterans.

Mike Dash at Dillons Bookstore

Mike Dash, from the Fortean Times, promoted his book "Borderlands", which covers a wide array of unexplained and Fortean phenomena. He discussed cases ranging from the 'Mince Pie Martians' to spontaneous human combustion and alien big cats. Dash drew three tentative conclusions: that unexplained phenomena are hard to compartmentalize, that there's no such thing as a consistently unexplainable phenomenon, and that answers must be sought within ourselves. The reviewer noted disappointment that Dash spoke primarily to the projector screen rather than the audience.

Letters and Contributions

Letters from Karma Nips (ARSE)

Karma Nips, founder of ARSE (Armchair Researchers Study of the Extraordinary), writes to express his usual mix of praise and complaint. He was impressed by a previous cover photograph and has written to various parties about it. A letter from Nina Pendred, editor of 'Alien Encounters' magazine, is included, offering to publish a photo if submitted. Karma Nips then complains about the magazine's introduction to his previous letter, which he felt insinuated he was a 'drinking partner' of Harry Harris and working for the MOD. He asserts ARSE's incorruptibility and promises members a 'hyper-jump into the unknown' and 'forbidden knowledge of Craal'. He also mentions the recent Channel 4 documentary "Dark Skies" and advises new members not to visit ARSE HQ.

Cartoons and Satire

"The Paranoid World of Dr Bob Doddman"

This cartoon strip features Dr Bob Doddman, a ufologist, who believes everything is a conspiracy. The strip touches on the Virgin Challenger balloon incident, a Roswell-like scenario with injured humanoids and a crashed flying disk, and the Men in Black covering up UFO evidence. It includes a satirical exchange with an 'alien' warning about humanity's hostility and a mention of Ray Santilli and autopsy footage.

"Sister Matilda"

This comic strip appears to be a humorous take on a mundane setting, possibly a chemist's shop, with characters experiencing various states of intoxication or distress, indicated by speech bubbles like 'URGHH', 'HIC!', 'GURGLE', and 'ROLL ME OVER!'. The title suggests a religious or monastic context, contrasting with the chaotic scenes depicted.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of UFO sightings, alien abductions, conspiracy theories, and other unexplained phenomena. There is a clear interest in investigative journalism and the exposure of potential cover-ups by government and military organizations. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to question official narratives and explore alternative explanations for anomalous events. The inclusion of satirical content suggests a willingness to engage with the subject matter with a degree of critical humor. The magazine also seems to foster a sense of community among its readers and contributors, as evidenced by the letters section and the promotion of organizations like ARSE.