Strange Daze - number 7

Magazine Overview

Title: STRANGE DAZE
Issue: Number 7
Date: October 1995
Publisher: Northern UFO Research and Investigation (NUFORI)
Price: £1.00

This issue of Strange Daze, a journal dedicated to extraordinary experiences, theories, and UFO phenomena, features a prominent cover story titled "BUFORA IN THE DOCK: The debate continues," including letters from Jenny Randles, Ken Phillips, and John Spencer. The magazine is published quarterly by NUFORI and focuses on news, reviews, and strange happenings from around the region.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by D.A. Newton, reflects on a conversation about UFOlogy, admitting that the theories discussed can sound bizarre to an outsider. Newton expresses his personal views, stating he does not believe UFOs are alien spaceships, though he acknowledges the possibility of other life forms and faster-than-light travel. He suggests that the beings involved in encounters and abductions might be paranormal, akin to demons or goblins, rather than extraterrestrial. Newton emphasizes that while he doesn't believe in the extraterrestrial hypothesis, the phenomenon itself is genuine and worth studying to better understand the world and the human mind. He draws parallels between the strangeness of UFO phenomena and quantum theory, highlighting that the universe is not as neat and orderly as we perceive it.

News and Reports

The "News" section covers various UFO-related events and organizations. A significant portion discusses the BUFORA Regional Lectures in Newcastle, with the first lecture featuring Eric Morris of the British UFO Studies Centre. Future lectures and a BUFORA conference on abductions are also announced. The issue touches upon the Santilli film footage of alleged Roswell aliens, with the editor expressing skepticism and suggesting it might be a hoax or a "what if" military exercise. Other news items include the US band The Foo Fighters' obsession with UFOlogy, the potential replacement of RAF Tornado jets with Stealth F-117B aircraft leading to increased reports of black triangles, and the availability of Roswell tour packages including samples from the alleged crash site.

An ex-astronaut, Gordon Cooper, is mentioned for claiming a 1957 film shows a UFO landing at Edwards Air Force Base. The upcoming movie "Men In Black," based on characters who harass UFO witnesses, is also noted.

Letters and Contributions

The "Letters" section, moved to the front due to its importance, begins with a letter from Eric Morris of the British UFO Studies Centre (BUFOSC). Morris details BUFOSC's formation in 1994, its activities, and its investigation into the "New Welsh Window Area" in North Wales, a UFO flap that has been ongoing for nine months. He also mentions his research into Unidentified Submersible Objects (USOs). Morris expresses excitement for an upcoming lecture at the University of Northumbria.

Another letter, possibly from a reader named Dave, is addressed by Eric Morris, who thanks him for the comprehensive letter and wishes BUFOSC success. He expresses interest in learning more about a UFO crash in Cornwall.

The "Feud Court" section is mentioned as a continuation from a previous issue, intended to address past UFOlogical events without reopening old wounds.

Organization Focus: BUFOSC

Eric Morris's letter provides an in-depth look at the British UFO Studies Centre (BUFOSC). Formed in 1994, BUFOSC has grown significantly, with members from North Wales, Staffordshire, Manchester, and Runcorn. They hold regular meetings, offer talks and lectures, and produce a magazine called "INTELLIGENCE." The organization has acquired equipment like a photocopier and tent and is actively investigating cases, including a UFO crash in Cornwall. BUFOSC is described as being in a "very healthy position" with dedicated members.

Other Articles and Reviews

"In Advance of the Landings: A review by D. Sivier" and "Successful Skywatching, Pt 2 by D.A. Newton" are listed in the contents, along with "Reviews" and "North East Cases: 'Ghost Stories' by G Dixon." "Other reports by D.A. Newton" are also included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing debate within the UFO community, particularly concerning the BUFORA organization and the Santilli film. There is a strong emphasis on investigative work, with mentions of specific cases and ongoing research projects by NUFORI and BUFOSC. The editorial stance, as presented by D.A. Newton, leans towards a more skeptical but open-minded approach to UFO phenomena, questioning the conventional extraterrestrial hypothesis and exploring paranormal or psychological explanations. The magazine also highlights the importance of public awareness and research in the field of UFOlogy, while acknowledging the challenges and ridicule faced by witnesses and researchers.

This issue of Strange Daze, dated July 1995, features a significant amount of correspondence and editorial commentary on UFOlogy, organizational disputes, and the handling of evidence. The magazine acts as a platform for debate and clarification within the UFO community.

Jenny Randles Responds

The issue opens with a lengthy letter from Jenny Randles, a prominent UFOlogist and author, responding to points raised in the July 1995 issue of Strange Days. She addresses Craig Jackson's review of "The Complete Book of UFOs," defending her co-author Peter Hough and clarifying that the book's depth should be considered in relation to its 304 pages. Randles also comments on the "Feud Court" section, specifically the case involving Beckjord and Hough. She asserts that the photographer exists, is sincere, and signed over copyright to Peter Hough to avoid public interface, while wanting the image to be freely available for analysis. Randles refutes claims that Beckjord's enhancement of the picture was ignored, stating that attempts to enhance the grainy 400 ASA image were limited by resolution. She mentions that leading UFO photographic analyst Dr. Bruce Maccabee tried to enhance it and was disappointed by the lack of success. Randles dismisses "enhanced" images with "horns and other nonsense" as imagination filling in the blurred mess and criticizes Beckjord's magnified pictures of crop circles and "odd faces."

BUFORA Internal Disputes

A substantial portion of the magazine is dedicated to internal conflicts within BUFORA (British UFO Research Association). The author, who appears to be the editor of Strange Daze, details a dispute with Philip Mantle and John Spencer, which led to his resignation from the BUFORA council. The author explains that the BUFORA investigators meeting date was pre-determined, and he was invited by Philip (then secretary) to speak at a rearranged IUN meeting. Despite being offered £50 to go to Newcastle for the IUN meeting, he declined to stay with his BUFORA team, who would not receive travel expenses for the investigators meeting in London. He later learned that the £50 offer was meant to cover expenses, but he felt that accepting it would have looked like "selling out" given the IUN's role in setting up a national investigators network.

The author expresses concerns about Philip Mantle's "divided loyalties" to John Spencer, then vice chairman. Spencer tape-recorded a conversation with the author about these concerns, which Mantle later played to the BUFORA council eight months later, leading to a demand for the author's expulsion. The author resigned before this could happen. He suggests Mantle's desire was to do more PR work for BUFORA and that Mantle was annoyed by the author's involvement in TV shows like "Strange but True?" and another Granada TV series, feeling they should have been his opportunities. The author notes that his media work, which he does for free, generated around £3000 profit per year for BUFORA.

The author also mentions the departure of key people from BUFORA, including Dave Clarke and Clive Potter, and Paul Fuller's resignation from the council at the same meeting Mantle brought charges against him. Fuller cited BUFORA's change of direction and policy decisions as reasons. The author felt his support on the council was undermined and that the council lacked objectivity. He perceived Mantle's interest in personal media appearances and concentrating administration, PR, and investigation through Mantle's house as a move away from scientific objectivity, a fear he believes has been justified by BUFORA's handling of the Roswell autopsy footage.

Roswell Film Controversy

The author defends his stance on the Roswell film escapade, disagreeing with Jenny Randles' view that BUFORA should have rejected it. He questions whether absolute proof of authenticity can ever exist and believes the film should be out in the open for authentication to unfold. He wonders what would have happened if Quest International had worked with Santilli.

Ken Phillips' Criticism of BUFORA

The issue includes an editorial from Ken Phillips, editor of UFO Times, criticizing BUFORA. Phillips accuses BUFORA of cover-up, suppression, silence, and bungling ineptitude, particularly regarding access to their case files. He awards BUFORA's R & I Department the "Betty Wood Rosebowl Award for Ineptitude and Maladroit Handling of UFO Reports." Phillips claims that BUFORA does not seem to operate logically, with no one knowing where files and films are kept, and that even if they were known, rank-and-file members would likely not be allowed to view them. He suggests this inefficiency has been ongoing since BUFORA's inception 30 years prior.

BUFORA Chairman's Response

John Spencer, BUFORA Chairman, responds to Ken Phillips' criticisms. He acknowledges that "not all Ken says is a lie - some of it is only a distortion." Spencer explains that delays in computerizing the database are due to technological development and the sheer volume of files (thousands) accumulated over 30 years. He states that once computerized, the database will be accessible to UFO groups, subject to witness confidentiality. Spencer also addresses the Hampstead video, stating it was not lost but with the Director of Research, Steve Gamble, and available for viewing. He claims Ken Phillips has been repeatedly told this but continues to make the same claims. Spencer denies BUFORA censors its editorials, stating that Ken Phillips' last three editorials were prevented from being published because they were boring the readership, a decision approved by the council and membership. He also notes that Mike Wootten took over editing the magazine, resulting in positive feedback and a stronger publication.

Further Correspondence and Editorial Notes

The issue includes a brief comment from Craig Jackson regarding Jenny Randles' review, admitting he enjoyed the book and calling it a "good introduction to UFOlogy and an absorbing read." Philip Mantle's response is a dismissive "Yawn." The editor's response to Erik Beckjord's letter about the Ilkley Moor entity photographs acknowledges that over-enhancement can create strange effects and suggests Beckjord's images are likely "wishful thinking." The editor also notes that BUFORA's decision to be publicly associated with a film they seemingly lacked faith in and had not investigated was a risky move.

An editorial note from "Mr Newton" (presumably the editor of Strange Daze) mentions that his magazine "loves to do exposés of the BUFORA 'Carthorse'." He encloses his latest editorial for UFO Times 38, which he fears will be censored by BUFORA's Editorial Panel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Strange Daze is characterized by a strong focus on internal debates and controversies within the UFO community, particularly concerning BUFORA. The editorial stance appears to favor transparency and open investigation, as evidenced by the editor's willingness to publish critical viewpoints and engage in debates about evidence handling and organizational practices. There is a clear tension between different factions regarding the interpretation of evidence, the role of organizations, and the methods of public dissemination of UFO information. The magazine serves as a forum for these often heated discussions, highlighting the challenges of maintaining objectivity and credibility in the field.

This issue of Strange Daze, dated July/August 1995, focuses heavily on the Roswell incident and the ongoing debates within the UFO community. It also includes a significant piece on alien abductions, specifically the Betty and Barney Hill case, and practical guidance for amateur skywatchers.

Contributions and Debates

The issue opens with a letter from John Spencer, offering a critique of the magazine's editorial stance. This is followed by a contribution from Gloria Dixon, a BUFORA Council member, who expresses frustration with the internal divisions and personality-driven conflicts within UFOlogy. She criticizes the focus on the Roswell footage and Ray Santilli's film, arguing that the UFO community should unite to investigate such phenomena rather than engage in destructive attacks. Dixon calls for a more collaborative approach, where researchers agree to differ but work together to examine theories.

An editorial note from 'Ed' humorously suggests that Strange Daze will continue to navigate the complexities of UFO study.

Review of "In Advance of the Landings" and "Secret History: The Roswell Incident"

David Sivier reviews Channel 4's Sci-Fi Weekend programming, focusing on two key documentaries. "In Advance of the Landing" is described as exploring "Folk Concepts of Outer Space" through interviews with people from various walks of life, including members of the Aetherius Society and the Unarius cult. Sivier critically examines the beliefs and practices of these groups, particularly the Aetherius Society and its founder, "Sir" George King, expressing skepticism about his claims of contact with extraterrestrial intelligences. He also scrutinizes the Unarius Society and its founder, Ruth "Spaceship Ruthie" Norman, likening her teachings to a blend of past-life regression and science fiction, and noting her unusual car decoration.

The Betty and Barney Hill Abduction Case

Sivier then turns to the "Secret History: The Roswell Incident" documentary, but first delves into the significant Betty and Barney Hill abduction experience. He recounts their 1961 encounter with a UFO while driving home, the subsequent missing time, nightmares, and scars. The case is linked to psychiatrist Dr. Benjamin Simon, who used hypnosis to regress the Hills to the period of their missing time. Their recovered memories involved abduction by short aliens with large eyes, medical examinations, and the insertion of a probe. Betty Hill's account included a star map recalled by a friend, interpreted as showing the Zeta Reticuli star system, which contributed to the 'Greys' myth. The article notes that Barney Hill passed away, but Betty remained in contact with her abductors. The experience was serialized in a magazine and later became the book "The Interrupted Journey" and the TV movie "The UFO Incident," starring James Earl Jones as Barney Hill.

Roswell Incident Deep Dive

The review of "Secret History: The Roswell Incident" highlights the extensive coverage of the event. It summarizes the initial discovery of wreckage by rancher William "Mac" Brazel in July 1947, his subsequent arrest, and the Air Force's retrieval of the debris. The official explanation shifted from a "flying disc" to a simple weather balloon. The documentary is noted for featuring interviews with surviving witnesses and military personnel, with some testifying to the reality of alien bodies. Sivier discusses various theories about the recovered object, including a Skyhook weather balloon, a RADAR target, or a Mogul spy balloon. He also considers the possibility that the object was a damaged government device or related to experiments at White Sands or Los Alamos. The article references "Just Cause" from Magonia, suggesting the military may have used the "flying saucer" mythology to encourage public participation in Operation Skywatch, an early warning system.

Media Reactions and Skepticism

The issue touches upon the media's mixed reactions to the Santilli film, with Peter Tory in the Daily Express calling it "plainly ridiculous" and a fake, comparing the corpse to magician Paul Daniels. Private Eye is mentioned for its satirical commentary on the film.

Skywatching Guide

Dave Newton contributes a two-part guide to "Successful Skywatching." Part 2 focuses on "Where to go" and "When to go." Newton advises skywatchers to find locations with minimal light pollution, suggesting areas in the North East of England, Pendle Hill, the Pennine Hills, and regions in Scotland. He notes that while UFO sightings occur throughout the day, night sessions offer the best chance. He mentions John Keel's finding that sightings peaked on Wednesdays and suggests a genuine peak around 3 AM, with some believing the full moon enhances activity. Newton also lists common misidentifications, including planets, the Moon, meteors, aircraft, satellites, and atmospheric phenomena.

Reviews of Other UFO Publications

The issue includes brief reviews of other UFO magazines: "UFO Times" (July/August 1995), which featured articles on the Sheffield congress, the Santilli film, Roswell, and Area 51, edited by Mike Wootten; and "The New Ufologist" No. 3, which the reviewer criticizes for poor subscriber service. "INTELLIGENCE No 3" (June 1995), the magazine of BUFOSC, is praised for its regional UFOlogy content, despite some print quality issues.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent controversies surrounding the Roswell incident, the nature of evidence in UFOlogy, and the challenges of internal community dynamics. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, encouraging a more rational and unified approach to the study of UFO phenomena, while also providing practical information for enthusiasts. There is a clear skepticism towards sensational claims, particularly regarding the Santilli film, but an acknowledgment of the importance of investigating the core issues, such as the Roswell event itself.

This document comprises pages 31-39 of what appears to be a magazine or newsletter, likely titled 'Strange Daze', with content dating from August 1995 to January 1996. The publication focuses on UFOlogy, paranormal phenomena, and related subjects, featuring reviews of other magazines, personal accounts, and reports of unusual events.

Magazine Reviews

The issue provides reviews of several niche publications:

• BUFOSC: Praised as a serious and dedicated UFOlogist group.
• Magonia 53 (August 1995): Described as an excellent magazine dealing with contemporary vision and belief, featuring articles on hypnotism, UFOlogy, reviews, and letters. The editor's comment about a 'slugfest' ending due to 'brain damage to the spectators' is highlighted.
• OVNI (October 1995): A monthly magazine from Omar Fowler's Phenomenon Research Association, containing short articles and a sky guide, noted for being accepting of the extraterrestrial hypothesis. A factual error regarding the Clementine moon probe images is pointed out, with the reviewer stating the images were released online.
• The Aetherius Society Newsletter (September 1995): Characterized as dealing with 'prayer power' and unusual names, considered 'too weird' but harmless fun.
• The Quarterly Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society (September 1995): Although not typically reviewed, this issue contained articles on 'The Natural Selection of Universes Containing Intelligent Life' and 'Faster than Light Interstellar Space Travel', deemed of interest to UFOlogists.
• Rapport No 3 (Autumn 1995): Edited by Ken Phillips, this magazine from the Witness Support Group offers a witness-centered approach with letters, articles, and poetry from witnesses.
• Fortean Times: Recommended for its coverage of UFOs, odd coincidences, bizarre happenings, and cryptozoology, described as 'always excellent'.
• Lobster (June 1995): A bi-monthly magazine focusing on conspiracies and politics, occasionally touching on UFO cover-ups.
• ENIGMAS 41 (August/September 1995): Described as a 'cracker' from Malcolm Robinson's Strange Phenomena Investigations (SPI) group, packed with articles, cases, and letters.
• Northern UFO News 171 (September 1995): Featured a Roswell footage special, discussions on the commercialization of UFOlogy, brief cases, and reviews.
• The Ley Hunter (123): Subtitled 'The Journal of Geomancy and Earth Mysteries', it covers ancient sites, landscapes, and sacred sites, often intersecting with UFOs and spirits.
• 3rd Stone (Midsummer 1995): Produced by the Gloucester Earth Mysteries Society, this journal covers ancient sites, Neolithic man, Atlantis, and alien abductions.
• The X Files comic: Available monthly, noted for being surprisingly good and well-researched.

Case Reports and Personal Accounts

NORTH EAST CASES by Gloria Dixon

This section details several peculiar tales:

• WWII Aircraft Incident: The author recounts a story told by Sid Judd, a pilot from 77 Squadron. On a mission in June 1944, Judd's aircraft was attacked and sustained heavy damage, including fire. He skillfully ditched the crippled plane in the sea, and the crew were rescued. Separately, Sid's parents experienced an unexplained event of footsteps and a ringing doorbell at the exact time their son's plane ditched.
• Wartime Bomber Station Encounter: Another story from WWII describes an airman at a bomber station witnessing a WWI biplane land. The pilot, dressed in period flying kit, entered the caravan and delivered a note stating that a specific Lancaster bomber, which had taken off that night, had crashed and its crew killed. The airman radioed this information, and the pilot of the biplane departed.
• 1960s Encounter: The author's father, while staying at a wartime bomber station in the 1960s, encountered a fair-haired young man in full WWII flying kit in a mess corridor. Other officers had also seen this person, who was known to have been killed in action.

Life Beyond Death? (Joan H.'s Account)

This section details the experiences of Joan H. from Cleveland:

• Vision of Death: In June 1964, Joan experienced a vision while walking with Morris. She found herself in a different century, dressed in period clothing, and witnessed Morris and his brother Bill dead on a cart. Shadowy figures spoke of their youth.
• Sudden Death and Visitation: A year later, while discussing their upcoming honeymoon, Morris suddenly collapsed and died. Joan was comforted by a young, sandy-haired doctor who accurately described the cause of death (a blood clot) before it could have been medically determined. This doctor later disappeared. When Joan inquired about the doctor, she was told by the actual doctor, Dr. Robinson, that no other doctor had been present, and that the post-mortem had not yet revealed the cause of death.
• Brother's Death: Shortly after Morris's burial, Joan learned that his brother Bill had also died suddenly and without warning in the same manner.

Reports

An Animal Mutilation report

A report from Mr D. Colman describes a mutilated sheep found near Edinburgh Airport on August 12th, 1995. The sheep appeared decapitated with a large square hole under its neck, a cored-out right ear, and a missing right eye. There were no signs of struggle or significant blood loss. The report speculates on causes including natural predators, Satanists, vampiric alien beings, and ball lightning.

A "Flying Triangle" report

This section notes a rise in reports of dark, triangular UFOs. A specific sighting occurred on September 29th, 1995, at 9:50 pm in Stanley, County Durham. The object was described as a black triangle with three lights (a pulsing red on the nose, two steady white on the corners), approximately the size of a Harrier jump jet, emitting a high-pitched noise. It flew just above rooftop level for about 30 seconds. The report mentions similar activity previously in Chopwell.

A Fireball Meteor over the North East

On the night of July 28th, observers reported a very large and bright meteor over Alston, Cumbria, which travelled over Washington and Sunderland before burning up over the North Sea. It fragmented into several parts, producing a tail of sparks and a loud sound described as a bang, sonic boom, gunfire, or thunder. This event caused car alarms to activate in Sunderland. The possibility of meteorite fragments falling in the area is mentioned.

Competition

A competition is announced, asking readers to identify the correct date and place depicted in a woodcut, which does not represent Sunderland watching the July fireball event. The prize is a copy of Alan Watts' 'UFO Quest'.

Next Issue

The next issue is scheduled for January 1996.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, paranormal experiences, and unexplained phenomena. The publication appears to maintain an open-minded stance towards the extraterrestrial hypothesis, as noted in the review of OVNI. The editorial tone is generally informative and investigative, presenting various accounts and reports for the reader's consideration. There is a clear interest in documenting and analyzing unusual events, whether they be historical accounts from wartime, contemporary UFO sightings, or personal paranormal encounters. The inclusion of letters and reader contributions suggests an interactive approach with its readership.