The Swamp Gas Journal

Magazine Overview

The Swamp Gas Journal, Volume 1, Number 6, dated January 1980, is a publication focused on UFO and related phenomena. The issue features a prominent article titled "Encounter of the Decade" which details a significant UFO sighting.

"Encounter of the Decade"

The main article recounts the experience of Deputy Sheriff Val Johnson in Marshall County, Minnesota, on August 27th, 1979. Johnson reported seeing a bright, brilliant light, estimated to be 8-12 inches in diameter and 3-4 feet off the ground, while on routine patrol. The light intercepted his vehicle, causing damage to the headlight, a dent in the hood, a broken windshield, and bent antennas. Johnson stated he was rendered unconscious, neutralized, or unknowing for approximately 39 minutes. Following the incident, his police vehicle proceeded 854 feet before its brakes engaged, leaving approximately 99 feet of skid marks and coming to rest sideways. He radioed for assistance at 2:19 a.m. An officer from Stephen responded, and Johnson was transported to Warren Hospital, where he complained of sore eyes, diagnosed as a mild case of welder's burns. His timepiece and wrist watch were both found to be 14 minutes slow.

Guy Westcott, an associate of the author, visited the site and suggested the phenomenon might have been ball lightning, citing the hot and humid conditions of the previous evening and the object's proximity to a power line. Westcott's investigation report is mentioned as being detailed. The article also discusses the bending of the antennas, with Allan Hendry suggesting impact, while Westcott posits they bent after whipping forward when brakes were applied, striking the red dome light on the roof. Honeywell Labs analyzed the antennas, concluding they were bent by force, not heat, and a magnetic scan showed no strong magnetic field.

Follow the Bouncing Plasma

This section discusses two discourses on ball lightning, one by S. Singer in "Lightning" Volume 1, and another by W.N. Charman in Physics Reports. Both works survey reported characteristics and theories of ball lightning. Singer notes the similarity between UFO debates and ball lightning discussions, suggesting that proponents of both are sometimes unaware of the other's precedent. Charman's paper also touches upon UFOs and uses eyewitness observation tests. The article mentions "ionized swarms" of insects as a proposed explanation for some reports, but generally rejects it.

"Centre gets 'UFO' photos"

This piece discusses a headline from the Winnipeg Tribune concerning MCUFOS (Manitoba Centre for UFO Studies). The co-chairman, Ed Barker, described photos as 'spectacular' but couldn't see UFOs in them. The author, upon seeing the photos, found them disappointing. The photos reportedly showed a 1.6 km long spaceship taking off from the Canary Islands in April 1979. The first photo was of illuminated clouds, while the other three showed a bright orange trail. The lack of detailed information about the photos (camera settings, shutter speed, location, time) is noted. The story accompanying the photos involves 'space brothers' warning of a future war and offering to transport select humans off Earth.

Book Reviews

The issue includes reviews of several books:

• The UFO Handbook by Allan Hendry: Praised for its objective and tactful approach to UFO witnesses, effectively weeding out IFOs (Identified Flying Objects) and making a case for the existence of the UFO phenomenon.
• The UFO Guidebook by Norman Briazack and Simon Mennick: Criticized as a "silly compilation" and a "senseless waste of paper" due to inaccurate definitions and the creation of unneeded acronyms and words.
• The Complete Book of Extraterrestrial Encounters by Randall Fitzgerald: Described as a good job of arranging book reviews of major UFO and fortean works, with a comprehensive approach. However, it notes the omission of "The Walton Experience" by Travis Walton.

Velikovsky Re-reconsidered

A brief mention of the passing of Immanuel Velikovsky, noting that his ideas will continue to influence his supporters and proponents, and that his work contributes a necessary criticism to science.

Manitoba Conference on Ufology

An announcement for the first Manitoba Conference on Ufology, hosted by the author on March 16, 1980, at the University of Manitoba. The aim is to review and discuss current UFO research in Manitoba, with scientists, laymen, and proponents and opponents invited. Each guest is expected to present a short paper or panel seat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to maintain an open but critical stance towards UFO phenomena, exploring various explanations including ball lightning while also acknowledging the possibility of non-terrestrial origins. It actively engages with the UFO research community by reviewing relevant literature and announcing conferences. The editorial tone is investigative and analytical, presenting different viewpoints and encouraging further research.