Strange Daze - number 18

Magazine Overview

This issue of Strange Daze, number 18, is a special bumper edition focusing on a variety of mysterious phenomena, including UFO sightings, advanced aircraft, and philosophical questions about consciousness. The cover features a striking image with John F. Kennedy, lightning, and the magazine's title, along with headlines about "Strange Triangles," "Strange Places," "Strange Grey Men," "Strange Machines," and "Coping with P.M.T (Post Millennium Tension)." It also highlights articles on JFK & LBJ by Kate Taylor and an interview with Timothy Good.

Editorial

The editorial, written by Gloria Heather Dixon, reflects on the paradoxical nature of 1999, marked by both tragedy (Kosovo, Turkey earthquake) and wonder (solar eclipse). It touches upon the rapid advancements in medical technology, cloning, and genetic manipulation, raising moral and ethical questions. The editorial also introduces the central theme of the issue: the search for answers to fundamental questions about ourselves and our place in the universe, particularly in the context of the approaching millennium. It references a BBC Radio Four program that debated whether there is "no place left for the soul to hide?" and highlights the growing number of extraordinary human experiences being reported, such as out-of-body experiences and alien encounters. Strange Daze aims to explore these "Strange Places" and their implications for human consciousness.

Articles and Features

Chasing the Triangle

This article by Bill Rose details an extraordinary sighting on August 26th, 1989, from a North Sea drilling platform. An engineer, Graeme Winton, spotted a small formation of aircraft, including a Boeing KC-135 tanker and a sharply swept, featureless black triangle. Chris Gibson, an expert in military aircraft recognition, also witnessed the event. The aircraft were estimated to be at 10,000 feet. The black triangle's appearance baffled observers, as it did not match any known aircraft. In the following weeks, Gibson discussed the sighting, but the British government's Official Secrets Act discouraged public disclosure. In 1991, after the ROC was "stood down," Gibson spoke about the incident, and aviation writer Bill Sweetman suggested it might be a Top Secret American spyplane. The article notes that the last RAF Vulcans were retired in 1984, five years before the sighting. Official reaction from USAF General Walter Hogle dismissed it as an RAF Vulcan, a claim Gibson found nonsensical. Aviation writer Steve Douglass intercepted a phone conversation suggesting the USAF intended to label the craft an F-117. Curtis Peebles suggested it was a third F-111 with wings swept back, but this theory is challenged by pilot Don Logan regarding the safety and maneuverability of an F-111 at such wing sweeps during refuelling. The article concludes that the black triangle was likely a highly classified US prototype, possibly the 'Aurora' spyplane.

Into the Black: Bye-Bye Blackbird, Hello Aurora?

This section delves deeper into the 'Aurora' concept, first mentioned in a 1985 Pentagon document. It discusses the development of hypersonic aircraft, tracing roots back to German designers like Sanger and von Braun, and the US projects like the X-20 Dyna Soar and the X-15. The article suggests that the 'Aurora' might have been developed by Lockheed's Skunk Works as a successor to the SR-71 Blackbird. It details the X-30 'Orient Express' project and the subsequent cancellation by the Clinton administration. The article also mentions a possible two-stage spaceplane, codenamed 'Brilliant Buzzard' or 'Blue Eyes,' potentially launched from a mothership based on the XB-70A Valkyrie bomber. The text highlights the secrecy surrounding these projects, with officials like USAF Secretary Donald Rice and NRO Director Martin Faga denying the existence of such aircraft. It also covers the mysterious incident at RAF Boscombe Down in 1994, where an unidentified aircraft reportedly crash-landed and was removed by a USAF C-5 Galaxy, an event the British MoD denied.

Strange Places: Nightshift

This article by Steve Robbins recounts a personal experience from June 1981, when he was working as a plant operator on a petroleum plant on Teeside. While on night shift, he witnessed an enormous flying object, described as about one hundred feet long and twenty to twenty-five feet wide, descending rapidly. His colleagues and supervisor also saw it, but it vanished without a trace. The incident was investigated by Teeside Airport, which reported no aircraft activity. The article also details a series of inexplicable electrical problems Steve experienced at home, including his television bursting into flames, and similar malfunctions affecting other electrical appliances. These problems continued when he was at work, with computer terminals going out of sync. Later, Steve experienced inexplicable events in his bedroom, involving a high-pitched humming and the presence of three or four figures dressed in black, who communicated with him telepathically, assuring him they meant no harm.

Willing Accomplice? - Lyndon Johnson and the assassination of John F. Kennedy

This article by Kate Taylor explores the controversial topic of Lyndon B. Johnson's potential involvement in the assassination of John F. Kennedy. The article likely delves into theories and evidence suggesting a conspiracy, examining LBJ's political motivations and actions surrounding the event.

Private Recital: Timothy Good in conversation with Gloria Heather Dixon

This feature presents an interview with Timothy Good, a well-known author of books such as "Above Top Secret" and "Alien Base." The conversation, conducted by Gloria Heather Dixon, likely covers Good's extensive research into UFO phenomena, government cover-ups, and extraterrestrial encounters.

The Big Grey Man of MacDhui - part II

This is the second part of an article by Andy Roberts, continuing the exploration of the 'Big Grey Man' phenomenon, likely related to sightings or encounters in the Scottish mountains, possibly around Ben Macdui.

The Soft Machine

David Sivier discusses the challenges and problems associated with contemporary UFO investigations, examining the difficulties in gathering evidence, official responses, and the scientific community's skepticism.

Science from Newton

Dave examines "this issue's apples" and presents compelling reasons for readers to renew their Strange Daze subscription.

Speakeasy & Events Diary

This section includes letters from readers and a diary of upcoming events.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

Strange Daze consistently explores themes of the unexplained, government secrecy, and the nature of reality. The magazine takes a stance of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, advanced and classified aircraft, and the broader implications of these mysteries for human understanding. There is a clear interest in challenging official narratives and presenting evidence that suggests a hidden reality. The editorial's focus on consciousness, spirituality, and the search for meaning indicates a broader philosophical underpinning to the magazine's content, suggesting that the unexplained phenomena are viewed not just as curiosities but as potential keys to understanding deeper truths about existence. The magazine encourages reader participation and aims to foster a community of individuals interested in these complex subjects.

This issue of UF099, published by LAPIS, is dated Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th December 1999. The cover headline is 'UFOs: Nuts & Bolts or Flesh & Blood?', featuring a conference program with various speakers and topics related to UFOs and paranormal events. The magazine also includes articles on a personal UFO experience and the assassination of John F. Kennedy.

'Just you, for a little while'

This section details the experiences of a man named Steve, who reported a UFO sighting at a petroleum plant in 1981. He described hooded figures and a sense of presence. Following this event, Steve experienced several powerful precognitive dreams, including those of the Chernobyl and Lockerbie disasters, which occurred months before the actual events. He also developed an intrusive ability to sense people's thoughts upon meeting them. Steve's grandmother also had paranormal abilities. The article suggests possible explanations for his bedroom experiences, such as hallucinations caused by gas or oil, electromagnetic fields, or sleep paralysis/hypnagogia.

Steve's life underwent significant changes after the UFO sighting. He became more focused on living life to the full, developed a more positive attitude towards people, and lost his fear of death, leading him to appreciate life as a 'current phase of eternity'. He states, 'I keep my sanity by believing in myself...I believe in what happened, I will never be able to explain it, but at least I can now accept it.'

Lyndon Johnson & the Assassination of John F. Kennedy

This extensive article by Kate Taylor investigates the possibility of Lyndon B. Johnson's complicity in the assassination of John F. Kennedy. It traces Johnson's rise to power, highlighting his ambition, his political maneuvering, and his close ties to powerful Texas oilmen and defense contractors. The article suggests that Johnson may have been groomed for the presidency and had prior knowledge of the assassination.

Key points raised include:

• Johnson's Ambition: His political career was marked by a relentless drive for power, often involving questionable practices.
• The 1948 Senate Election: Johnson's victory was marred by allegations of vote rigging, earning him the nickname 'Landslide Lyndon'.
• Relationship with the Kennedys: There was noted animosity between Johnson and the Kennedys, with Kennedy reportedly unhappy with Johnson's role as Vice President.
• The Vietnam War: Johnson's reversal of Kennedy's plan to withdraw troops from Vietnam is presented as a significant policy shift that benefited defense contractors.
• Events of November 22, 1963: The article questions the security protocols on the day of the assassination, noting that both President Kennedy and Vice-President Johnson were together at a public event, a violation of security protocol. It also highlights Johnson's anxious behavior and his insistence on being sworn in as President immediately after Kennedy's death.
• Warren Commission: Johnson's reluctance to establish a Presidential commission and his preference for the FBI and Texas authorities to handle the investigation are noted. The article questions the Warren Commission's findings, particularly regarding the lack of evidence that Lee Harvey Oswald and Jack Ruby knew each other.
• Jack Ruby's Claims: Ruby's statements about Johnson's knowledge of the assassination and his claims of a 'new form of government' taking over are discussed, along with his subsequent death from cancer.
• Motives: Potential motives for Johnson's involvement include avoiding scandals, the oil depletion allowance issue, and his desperation to become President.

The article concludes that while much of the evidence is circumstantial, it points to Johnson's potential role as a 'willing accomplice' to a 'high cabal' behind the assassination.

FOOTNOTES AND UPDATE

This section provides an update on communications with Steve Robbins, the witness from the first article. It mentions potential relevance of electromagnetic pollution and Kate Taylor's work on hypnagogia and lucid dreaming. The author notes Steve's pragmatic approach and his avoidance of 'alien or UFO culture'. A future interview is planned to discuss his reflections on his experiences and new age beliefs.

UF099 LAPIS International Conference

This section lists the speakers and topics for the UF099 conference, held on December 4th and 5th, 1999, in Lytham St Annes, Lancashire. Speakers include Michael Lindemann, Nick Redfern, George Wingfield, Jose Escamilla, Lionel Fanthorpe, Graham Sheppard, and Jonathan Downes & Nigel Wright. Topics range from 'New' MJ12 Documents and ET Contact to the FBI UFO Files, Black Triangles, 'RODS', Aerial Mysteries, and the Devon Triangle.

Timothy - a very private recital

This appears to be a brief mention or introduction to an interview or article featuring Timothy, in conversation with Gloria Heather Dixon.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFOs, paranormal phenomena, and conspiracy theories, particularly surrounding the JFK assassination. The magazine appears to present a critical and investigative stance, questioning official narratives and exploring alternative explanations for significant events. The articles suggest a connection between unexplained phenomena and broader societal or political events, emphasizing the importance of individual experiences and the need for deeper investigation into complex cases.

This issue of Strange Daze, issue number 20, focuses heavily on an in-depth interview with Timothy Good, a prominent UFOlogist, author, and musician. The cover features the title 'Good' and highlights Timothy Good and his book 'Alien Base'. The issue delves into Good's extensive research, his views on UFO phenomena, and his personal experiences.

Interview with Timothy Good

The interview begins by establishing Timothy Good as a respected authority on UFOs, with a passion that is both powerful and seemingly absolute. He is described as a gentleman who defends his beliefs with persuasive strength but is also open to acknowledging alternative explanations for some unidentified aerial phenomena.

Background and Early Life

Timothy Good was born in London in 1942. His formal education included The King's School, Canterbury, and a violin scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music. His professional career began in music in 1963, touring the USA and Canada with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. From 1964 to 1978, he played with the London Symphony Orchestra and has also performed with many other notable orchestras. Since 1978, he has worked as a freelance session musician for television, commercials, feature films, and pop artists, including Phil Collins, George Harrison, and Paul McCartney. He has also contributed to recent films such as 'The Fifth Element' and 'Tomorrow Never Dies'.

Good's interest in UFOs ignited in 1955 when, at age twelve, he read a book by Major Donald Keyhoe. His mother, who had psychic abilities, also influenced his interest in anomalous phenomena. He recalls vividly watching the planes fly over on VE-Day in 1945.

UFOlogy and Alien Encounters

Good believes that UFOlogy is currently taking various directions globally. He expresses concern about the 'abduction thing' in the USA, which he feels has reached 'farcical levels' with stories often based on fantasy and media overexposure. However, he is convinced that many people have genuinely been abducted, though the numbers are likely far fewer than claimed. He emphasizes the importance of total recollection or partial recollection in abduction cases and advocates for gradual recall, with hypnotic regression being a useful tool when conducted by qualified professionals.

He notes that in some countries, like the Australian state of Victoria, hypnotic regression is forbidden unless practiced by state-registered psychiatrists. He cites the case of Kelly Cahill, whose abduction experience in 1993, though not fully recalled, was corroborated by other witnesses and scientific evidence at the site.

Regarding the influence of UFO imagery on people's beliefs, Good acknowledges that it can play a role, but stresses that genuine experiences are distinct from fantasy.

Interest in UFOs and Anomalous Phenomena

Good's interest in the mysterious began early, with his mother noting his quickness in spotting planes and birds even as an infant. His specific interest in UFOs started in 1955, influenced by a book from an American relative, Edmund C. Berkeley. He devoured aviation magazines and comics like 'Dan Dare'. During his student years, he became involved in spiritualism, attending public demonstrations of clairvoyance and séances.

The Future of UFOlogy and Media Influence

Good believes that interest in UFOs is cyclical, often boosted by dramatic sightings and blockbuster films. He credits 'The X Files' with generating a new generation of enthusiasts, though he notes that a slump in the show's ratings led to a commensurate drop in UFO book and magazine sales. He observes that while some new researchers lack background knowledge, leading to sensationalist books, the overall interest from TV producers remains strong, with a plethora of documentaries being produced.

He notes that his research takes him worldwide and he sees increasing interest in many countries, with his book 'Alien Base' scheduled for publication in China. He dismisses the idea that UFO sightings are solely explained by terrestrial aircraft, calling it 'bull' and citing the long history of sightings.

Personal Life and Music

Music has always been a passion for Good. His father, Ronald, was a distinguished violinist, and his family has many professional musicians. He has played with numerous orchestras and continues to play with his brother Robin, who has hydrocephalus but possesses perfect pitch and mathematical ability. Good himself began learning the violin at age five and played with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain. He has been a professional violinist since 1963, working with major orchestras and as a session musician.

He expresses concern that his generation of session musicians is being replaced by younger players, but still finds joy in playing. He mentions his last pop song recording with B*Witched and his last film score for 'Message in a Bottle'. He states, "I can't live without music."

Defining Moment and Alien Encounters

Good's defining moment concerning UFOs occurred in February 1967 in New York, when he became convinced he encountered a man from another world. He believes that while some people may experience hallucinations due to altered states of consciousness like sleep paralysis, genuine encounters with extraterrestrials are also occurring.

Scientific Evidence and Implants

Good refutes the claim that there is no definitive scientific evidence for extraterrestrial spacecraft. He points to numerous cases involving landing traces, photographs, films, videos, radar data, material samples, animal mutilations, and scientific measurements. He acknowledges that definitive proof may be held by a select few. Regarding implants, he is not convinced by the findings of Dr. Roger Leir but notes that Dr. John Altshuler, a pathologist, did remove alleged alien implants from abductees, though definitive proof of alien origin was not established in those cases.

Secret Military Technology and UFOs

Good acknowledges that secret military aircraft can be mistaken for UFOs, but states this is rare, as such craft are typically tested in secluded areas. He mentions that devices like the DarkStar and Global Hawk UAVs, when viewed at certain angles, might be mistaken for flying saucers. He strongly recommends the book 'Robot Warriors' for information on UAVs.

The Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence (SETI)

Good believes that even if extraterrestrials are already present on Earth, the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) remains important. He suggests that most SETI researchers are unaware of highly restricted Special Access Programs related to extraterrestrials. He notes the limited funding for SETI programs by the US Government, which might suggest a lack of official interest or a subtle form of cover-up.

The Role of Religion and Consciousness

Good suggests that belief in UFOs and extraterrestrials may have taken the place of orthodox religions for some, drawing parallels between religious narratives and alien contact stories. He also believes that understanding human consciousness is key to fully grasping abduction phenomena and other anomalous experiences.

The 'Grey Alien' Phenomenon

Good views the 'grey alien' as already becoming folklore, with many abduction stories being fantasies fueled by media. He posits that there are likely many different species of extraterrestrials, and that some alien abductions might relate to demonic activity from other dimensions, while others involve physical beings from other planets or even terrestrial origins.

Government Cover-up

When asked about a government cover-up, Good refers readers to his books for a detailed explanation, stating that the question itself is too extensive to answer briefly. He does, however, mention that evidence of monitoring by the FBI, CIA, and USAF Office of Special Investigations exists in the USA.

Future Books and Research Methods

Good is working on a new book, scheduled for publication by Century in May 2000, which has cost approximately £35,000 to research. He explains that royalties are reinvested into research, covering travel, accommodation, fees for stories, translations, and interpreters. He holds an NUJ press card, which has aided him in tricky situations.

Personal Philosophy and Motivations

Good's core motivation is not searching for other worlds, but for the truth about what is happening on Earth. He finds it frustrating that evidence often relies solely on witness reports, which can be unreliable or dishonest, and that disinformation can feature in accounts. He emphasizes the need for objectivity, acknowledging that even scientists are human and prone to assumptions. He believes that abductees may confabulate under hypnotic regression and that 'screen memories' can be implanted. He advocates for giving aliens the benefit of the doubt.

As a writer, he is obsessed with accuracy, prioritizing facts and clarity. He expresses astonishment at how people can blindly believe religious texts, which he argues are human-authored, translated multiple times, and written long after the events they describe, making their 'facts' potentially garbled.

He describes himself as a private person, guarded in public appearances due to the potential for ridicule associated with the UFO subject. He believes that governments will eventually make an announcement confirming the reality of alien visitation, referencing a statement by President Reagan in 1987.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of UFOs, extraterrestrial encounters, and anomalous phenomena. The editorial stance, as represented by the interview with Timothy Good, is one of serious investigation into these subjects, acknowledging the complexities and the need for rigorous research while remaining open to extraordinary possibilities. The publication appears to champion detailed inquiry and challenges conventional skepticism, providing a platform for experts like Good to share their findings and perspectives.

Other Articles

Strange Places

A preview for forthcoming articles in 'Strange Daze' is presented, focusing on 'Strange Places'. These articles will explore reports of remarkable human experiences, including near-death experiences, after-death communication, visions, time-warps, close encounters, and inexplicable phenomena.

The Big Grey Man of Ben Macdhui & Other Mountain Panics Part II

This section continues a story by Andy Roberts, detailing an encounter with mysterious tracks on a snowy mountain. The author describes seeing a succession of tracks appear miraculously, with no visible source, leading to a feeling of panic. He concludes that these tracks provided an explanation for phenomena like the Wendigo or Abominable Snowman.

This issue of 'THE SOFT MACH' features an article by David Sivier, focusing on the critique of ufology and the exploration of 'mountain panics' and related phenomena. The cover prominently displays the title and the author's name.

Brookesmith's Critique of UFOlogy

Peter Brookesmith, a veteran ufologist, offers a trenchant criticism of UFOlogy, stating that its "evidence" is "scientifically useless." He argues that UFO cases, as synthesized experiences, undergo subjective filtering before being logged, moving away from pure data. Brookesmith contends that ufology's essential failing is its inability to test hypotheses, unlike scientific investigation. He suggests that if ufologists acknowledged the "uncertain, forensic nature" of their investigations, they might gain more scientific allies. The article notes that many other ufologists share similar views, highlighting the anecdotal and ephemeral nature of most UFO reports, which are difficult to subject to scientific inquiry.

The Big Grey Man and Mountain Panics

The article delves into the phenomenon of the Big Grey Man (BGM), particularly in relation to Ben Macdhui. It discusses how witnesses have reported hearing "footsteps" and experiencing phenomena attributed to the BGM. While some evidence might be natural or psychological, a percentage is considered paranormal and physical. However, the evidence for visual sightings of the BGM is described as slim, and there are no footprints. The experiences are characterized as random, spontaneous, and transitory, occurring to both the knowledgeable and the skeptical.

A significant aspect discussed is the "extreme, uncontrollable panic reaction" reported by witnesses. The article posits that this core experience of panic is widespread in wild or mountainous areas and has often been ignored or subsumed into broader "ghost" stories. It suggests that the BGM legend and similar phenomena can be reframed as "mountain panics" onto which local folklore is grafted.

Several accounts illustrate this phenomenon:

• Clive Elliot's experience on the Isle of Skye: He described a sudden, absolute blind terror that caused his mind to go to pieces, leading him to flee without looking back.
• Brian Miller's experiences on Skye: He reported feelings of unease, intimidation, depression, and being watched by something malignant, leading to panic and retreat.
• J. Craig's experience on Bennachie: He and his friends felt a horrid feeling of unease and absolute terror, compelling them to flee the mountain.
• Chris Townsend's experience in Glen Strathfarrar: He felt a strong feeling of a nearby presence, sensing hostility.
• Bill Steele's experience on Mt. Giluwe, Papua New Guinea: He felt an intense feeling of impending death and being watched by something evil, prompting him to flee.
• An account from Bleaklow, Derbyshire: Two boys witnessed a huge shadow-figure emerging from a cloud bank, causing overwhelming terror and panic, with wildlife also reacting fearfully.
• John Buchan's (Lord Tweedsmuir) account: He described an experience where his guide became deathly white and fled in terror, suggesting a transmission of fear, possibly related to the 'goat-foot god' or Pan.

Alternative Explanations and 'Genius Loci'

The article explores various interpretations for these panics. It touches upon the idea of "energies" locked into landscapes, drawing parallels with the Chinese concept of feng shui and the idea of "ghouls" or "place-fields" as described by Tom Lethbridge. These "place-fields" are attributed to underground water and changes in the earth's magnetic field affecting the brain. "Repeater" spots, where such experiences are replicated, are mentioned.

Another perspective comes from the concept of "genius loci," the spirit or characteristic atmosphere of a place. The BGM and the giant of Bennachie could be described as manifestations of this.

The Role of Psychology and Nature

The article also considers psychological explanations, suggesting that the awe-inspiring nature of mountains, combined with exertion and the realization of human fragility, can overpower the rational ego. This can lead to the environment and its contents being perceived as threatening, with noises assuming preternatural origins. The experience of "panic" is linked to the Greek god Pan, representing a primal fear and a direct participation in nature's raw, often terrifying, aspect. James Hillman's concept of "panic" as a direct participation mystique in nature, where the imaginal is vivid and instinctual, is cited.

The Limitations of UFOlogy and the Need for Social Sciences

The critique of ufology continues with the observation that many UFO organizations include physical scientists, but there's a tendency to turn to humanistic disciplines like social sciences and history when discussing topics like extraterrestrial intelligence. The article quotes John Harney, who noted that physical scientists in a panel reviewing UFO evidence tended to take reports at face value, whereas experienced ufologists are aware that incidents may not have occurred as described. The inclusion of professional stage magicians in paranormal investigations is suggested as a parallel, as they can discern deceit. The article cautions against misinterpreting conventional objects as alien due to percipients' beliefs.

It is emphasized that "UFOlogy" is not a single subject but many, and solving the "UFO mystery" requires experts in various fields. The article advocates for a more humanistic approach, analyzing findings critically and avoiding the substitution of one blanket explanation for another. The effects of witnesses' beliefs on reports are highlighted as a significant factor that distorts phenomena. The article concludes that a sizeable proportion of the ufological community lacks understanding of the constraints under which ethical research is done, contrasting this with the rigorous ethical controls in social sciences and other professions.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critique of ufology's scientific validity, the exploration of unexplained psychological and environmental phenomena in nature (particularly mountain panics), and the potential for misinterpretation and folklore to shape these experiences. The editorial stance appears to be one of skepticism towards simplistic explanations, advocating for a more rigorous, interdisciplinary approach that acknowledges the psychological and environmental factors at play, while also questioning the current methodologies within ufology.

This issue of Strange Daze, dated September 1999, focuses on a range of topics including ethical considerations in ufology, the science behind mass extinctions and celestial threats, and the impending 'Millennium Bug' (Y2K).

Ethical Standards in Ufology

The lead articles delve into the importance of ethical conduct for UFO investigators. Drawing parallels with the American Anthropological Association's 'Principles of Professional Responsibility,' the text emphasizes the paramount importance of safeguarding informants' rights, interests, and sensitivities. It critiques the 'abduction hysteria' for potentially harming vulnerable individuals and stresses that researchers must prioritize the well-being of those they study over personal or commercial gain. The article highlights the need for transparency, respect for informants' desire for anonymity, and the ethical imperative to seek rational explanations where possible. It also touches upon the controversy surrounding the 'Hutchison effect,' with a letter from Albert Budden expressing dissatisfaction with Dave Newton's assessment, and Newton's response defending his critical stance.

Celestial Threats and Extinctions

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to exploring the potential for catastrophic events from space. The article "Coping with PMT (pre-millennial tension)" discusses the Sun's eventual expansion into a red giant, posing an ultimate threat to Earth. More immediate concerns include asteroid and comet impacts, referencing the public awareness generated by films like 'Deep Impact' and 'Armageddon.' The issue revisits the K/T extinction event, 65 million years ago, and the theory that an asteroid impact, possibly linked to the Chicxulub crater, caused the demise of the dinosaurs. However, it also explores alternative or contributing factors, such as the Earth passing through giant molecular clouds (GMCs) in the Milky Way's spiral arms, which could alter atmospheric composition. The article notes that mass extinctions have occurred periodically throughout Earth's history, suggesting extraterrestrial influences are likely responsible.

The magazine also discusses the nature of comets and asteroids, explaining their origins from the Oort cloud and asteroid belt, respectively. It details how comets, composed of ice and dust, can release debris that causes meteor showers when Earth passes through their orbits. The Tunguska event of 1908 is presented as a possible example of a stony asteroid explosion, with its lack of a crater fueling UFOlogy speculation. The article distinguishes between fragile cometary nuclei and more robust meteorites, noting that impacts, even from smaller objects, can be devastating.

Near-Earth Asteroids and the Benson Prize

The threat posed by near-Earth asteroids (NEAs) is further elaborated, with statistics indicating a large population of these objects. The Benson Prize, established to encourage amateur discovery of NEAs, is mentioned, highlighting the ongoing efforts to identify and track these potential impactors. The Lincoln Near Earth Asteroid Research (LINEAR) observatory is noted for its significant contributions to cataloging these objects. The article discusses the risks associated with potential impacts and the need for accurate orbital determination to prevent future catastrophes.

The Millennium Bug (Y2K)

The issue addresses the widespread concern surrounding the Millennium Bug (Y2K), detailing the potential for computer systems to malfunction at the turn of the millennium. It acknowledges the significant global investment in addressing this issue and the hype generated by software manufacturers. The article includes a cautionary anecdote about a software engineer who prepared for societal collapse due to potential power grid failures. It also clarifies that the true start of the new millennium is January 1, 2001, not January 1, 2000.

Other Content

The magazine also features an 'Events Diary' listing upcoming lectures and meetings for various UFO and paranormal research organizations across the UK, including BUFORA, Independent UFO Network, and others. It includes a brief mention of 'Magonia Magazine' and 'Strange Daze' itself. The issue concludes with a letter page featuring a debate between Albert Budden and Dave Newton regarding the 'Hutchison effect,' and a note from the editor closing the correspondence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

A recurring theme throughout the issue is the call for greater rigor, professionalism, and ethical responsibility within ufology and related fields. The editorial stance appears to advocate for a scientific and rational approach, emphasizing the need for evidence-based research and a critical evaluation of claims, particularly in light of potential harm to individuals and the credibility of the field. The magazine highlights the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from social sciences and astronomy, to understand complex phenomena and potential threats.

This document contains page 48 of "Strange Daze" magazine, primarily featuring reader letters and editorial information. The cover of the magazine, depicted on the second page, displays a quote attributed to Teilhard de Chardin: "We are not human beings having a spiritual experience; we are spiritual beings having a human experience." The cover also features an angelic figure, airplanes, and gears, suggesting themes of spirituality, human experience, and possibly technology or the unexplained.

Letters to the Editor

The letters section includes correspondence from two readers:

Letter from Michael Lewis (ASSAP/BUFORA)

Michael Lewis expresses his appreciation for the magazine, particularly highlighting the well-researched article by Andy Roberts on "The Big Grey Man of Ben Macdhui" and the "thought provoking article by Philip Mantle on the Russian Roswell." While he cannot accept the latter at face value, he congratulates "Strange Daze" on producing a high-quality magazine that is a credit to the subject.

Letter from D.S. from Cyprus

D.S. writes to Gloria, sharing his thoughts on the article about Electromagnetic Pollution. He found certain factors in the article relatable to his own experiences. He recounts developing a severe skin rash, which he believes was a chemical allergy, that made it difficult to wear makeup or swim. He mentions a severe allergic reaction to prescribed drugs in Cyprus that required hospitalization. D.S. finds Mr. Budden's theory interesting and has many questions, particularly about the connection to precognitive dreams. He also inquires if living near a tube station and overground trains could be considered an "EM hotspot," as he lived in such an area during his childhood.

Editorial and Staff Information

The editorial section provides contact details for "Strange Daze":

• Editor: Gloria Heather Dixon
• Deputy Editor: Paul Cabby
• Science Editor: David Newton
• Consultants: Jenny Randles, Philip Mantle, David Sivier, Bill Rose, Tim Matthews
• Special thanks this issue to: Timothy Good, Bill Rose, Kate Taylor
• Marketing: Ian (Diamonds) Dixon
• Printed by: DANKA SERVICES INTERNATIONAL
• Editorial Fax: (0191) 2764417
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.strangedaze.ic24.net

The editorial address is provided as: The Editor, Strange Daze, Unit 2A, East Cheap, Heaton, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 5UA.

Subscription information indicates that cheques should be made payable to GLORIA DIXON. The cost for UK subscribers is £8.00 for 4 issues, and for overseas subscribers, it is £13 (including postage).

Personal Message

Finally, the editorial staff, including Gloria, extend their best wishes to Phil Mantle for a speedy recovery, referring to him as a "dear friend and colleague."

Website and Copyright

The magazine encourages readers to visit its website, www.strangedaze.ic24.net, which is described as "Constantly updated." The copyright notice states that all articles are the property of the author and Strange Daze, and reproduction requires express permission.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue, as evidenced by the reader letters, include UFO phenomena (specifically referencing "The Big Grey Man" and "Russian Roswell"), the potential impact of electromagnetic fields on health (pollution, allergies), and the intriguing possibility of precognitive abilities. The editorial stance appears to be open to exploring these subjects, as indicated by the publication of diverse reader perspectives and articles on these topics. The magazine also fosters a sense of community, as shown by the personal message wishing Phil Mantle well.